Even for all their UV-protecting and anti-aging benefits, getting in the habit of wearing sunscreen can be a struggle. Many of the more affordable options end up looking like a sticky white paint job when applied — while, alternatively, the sheer-as-satin top-shelf brands can end up costing them big bucks. Our solution? K-beauty sunscreen. It's affordable, has a delightful jelly texture, and that desirable barely-there finish (plus, a pretty passionate fan following in Amazon's review sections).
Korean beauty has already made a name for itself in leading the innovative-product charge — with everything from sheet to hydrogel masks, essences, ampoules, and now sunscreen. Those aforementioned run-ins with SPFs that leave behind a ghostly white residue (or worse, a clogged-pore party)? A thing of the past with K-beauty's superlight formulas that also tote hydrating, plumping, and oil-balancing benefits, too.
Ahead, a lineup of top-rated internet favourites that we'll be keeping on heavy rotation as our new summer-skin MVPs.
Refinery29's selection is purely editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items we love! As part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us.
Erborian CC Crème
Craving coverage? This CC cream starts out white, but blends into your own skin tone for a veil of protection.
Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF 50
This Amazon's Choice K-beauty gem boasts SPF-50 coverage, is crafted from a 100% mineral-based formula that is sebum-free, and contains a blend of skin-soothing ingredients (from acai berry to sunflower seed extract and aloe vera).
Not to mention, it also boasts an Amazon Choice stamp of approval along with 2,000+ reviews praising its lightweight and non-oily properties: "If you have oily skin TRY THIS! So I tried this today under my makeup, and it really worked. Like it actually worked. I have a picture that shows all the oil that has accumulated on my t-zone since 11:30 am, it is now 10:06 pm that I am making this review. I haven't blotted once all day, and that is it. Truly money well spent. Oily skin problem solved!"
Neogen Day-Light Protection Sun Screen SPF 50/PA+++
This formula feels more like a really good moisturiser but delivers serious sun protection. Plus, rose and raspberry extracts offer extra skin-soothing benefits.
THANKYOU FARMER Sun Project Light Sun Essence SPF50+ PA+++
The silky-smooth texture of this sunscreen doubles as a makeup primer and will make you look forward to putting it on every day (and several times a day!).
PURITO Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF50+ PA++++
1,217 reviewers can't be wrong! This formula is ultra-soothing for redness-prone complexions, thanks to ingredients like centella asiatica (cica, for short) and niacinamide.
Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF50+/PA+++
This fluid-thin formula quickly absorbs into skin while also offering impressive SPF 50 protection.