Ahc moist essence sun gel review năm 2024

As you may already know, Korean skincare is taking the Western cosmetics world by storm. While it dominates many categories, K-beauty really shines when it comes to sunscreen. Whether you haven't found the right one yet or are a sunscreen-stan and want to expand your horizons, we're confident that there's a K-beauty option that'll strike your fancy. From multitasking products with soothing and hydrating ingredients to gels, sticks, and creams, there's something for everyone.

To compile this list, we spent hours researching the best Korean sunscreens on the market, evaluating their active ingredients, sunscreen type, and SPF rating. We also scoured reviews from customers and checked with expert resources to get their recommendations. After considering dozens of formulas and consulting board-certified dermatologists, we landed on these top-rated picks.

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These innovative, UV-protecting formulas feel more like your favorite lightweight moisturizer than a heavy, oily sunscreen.

Soleil Summer for Allure / Courtesy of brand

We've said it once, and we'll say it again: The best Korean sunscreens are simply better than Western sunscreens. This statement comes down to innovation. Because sunscreen is considered a drug according to the Food and Drug Administration [FDA] and its chemicals and components must undergo formal drug approval processes, stateside beauty brands are limited by what they can spike their formulas with. In fact, "there hasn't been a new [chemical or mineral] approved for use in sunscreens in the U.S. since 1999," according to cosmetic chemist Stephen Ko.

Our Top Picks:

1. Best Overall: Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++, $23
2. Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner: Innisfree Daily UV Defense SPF 36, $16
3. TikTok-Viral Pick: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotic SPF 50+ PA++++, $18
4. Best for Minimizing Shine: Neogen Day-Light Protection Sun Screen SPF 50/PA+++, $32
5. Best Mineral Sunscreen: Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Sunscreen, $40
6. Best for Sensitive Skin: Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun SPF 50+ PA++++, $22
7. Best for Dry Skin: Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF 50+, $28
8. Best Under Makeup: Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA+++, $24

In South Korea, sunscreen formulas are advancing rapidly due to quicker approval times. Their mineral sunscreens, no matter how much zinc oxide they contain, are completely transparent on all skin tones without the telltale, annoying thickness. Korean sunscreens of the chemical variety tout an equally transparent, grease-free finish. Plus, both feature ingredients found in your favorite serums and moisturizers, like Centella asiatica [known as cica for short], allantoin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to name just a few. So when you slather them on, you're not only protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays, but you're also adding an extra layer of hydrating, brightening, and smoothing benefits.

You'll notice PA next to SPF in many of the product names below. While SPF focuses on UVB light [which burns skin] and measures how protected you are from sunburn, PA is all about UVA light [which visibly ages us] and your protection from developing pigmentation, says Zion Ko Lamm, MD, a Charlotte-based internal medicine doctor who combines Korean skin care with wellness. She equates PA+++ to SPF 30 and recommends seeking out sunscreens with a minimum of each.

To take this measurement system one step further, Dr. Ko Lamm points out that Western sunscreens are formulated as a necessity by focusing on the immediate effects of the sun. Korean sunscreens, on the other hand, are part of a lifestyle. They defend your skin from the long-term effects of the sun.

If we haven't proven our point just yet, perhaps these Korean sunscreen picks from K-beauty experts, dermatologists, as well as Allure editors in New York City and Seoul will. Maybe you'll be more likely to use [and reapply] sunscreen if you love these formulas as much as we do.

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

• Best Overall: Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

  Why It's Worth It: You'll see some familiar, editor-beloved ingredients in Thank You Farmer's Sun Project Water Sun Cream, including soothing aloe leaf and hydrating sunflower seed extracts. What's especially noteworthy is that this sunscreen is a hybrid formula, meaning it contains both mineral and chemical filters [homosalate, octorylene, and titanium dioxide, to be exact]. "Centella asiatica extract and bamboo water are two key ingredients that soothe and hydrate the skin," Eunice Park, MD, a dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in Long Island, NY, and founder of AIREM says, noting that this moisturizing sunscreen is ideal for normal to dry skin types. Editor Tip: Dr. Park also recommends Thank You Farmer's The Sun Essence, which is one of her favorites during the hot summer months. "It has a light, watery texture with a pearlescent finish that is ideal for normal to oily skin types," she notes. Type: Hybrid | Key Ingredients: Cica, bamboo water, sunflower seed oil, hollyhock root | Who It's For: Normal, dry skin

• TikTok-Viral Pick: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotic SPF50+ PA++

  Why It's Worth It: If you're on beauty TikTok, chances are you've seen Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotic SPF50+ PA++ all over your FYP. The viral sensation is one of the best sunscreens that we've tried in recent years, in part due to the glowy and healthy finish it imparts. Chock-full of nourishing ingredients such as niacinamide, rice extract, and grain-derived probiotics, this chemical, cast-free formula might just make you look forward to applying sunscreen every single day. Editor Tip: This may feel a bit too heavy for oily skin. On the other hand, for drier skin, this may not be as moisturizing as it appears to be, so you'll want to apply moisturizer beforehand. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Rice extract, niacinamide, pumpkin ferment extract, green tea, ginseng | Who It's For: Normal, combination, and dry skin

• Best Sweat-Resistant: Missha All Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

  Why It's Worth It: This soft-matte SPF has long been a favorite of legions around the globe because its mineral formula is sweat- and water-resistant and quickly dries down to a barely-there, nongreasy finish. Helichrysum flower water calms heat-induced redness and irritation, while glycerin strengthens your barrier. Editor Tip: You can use this on your entire body. Wherever you put it, make sure to give the bottle a few hearty shakes before dispensing the product. Type: Mineral | Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Helichrysum flower water, antozone rose | Who It's For: People with active or busy lifestyles

• Best for Dry Skin: Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++

  Why It's Worth It: Round Lab's Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream can easily replace the need for a separate moisturizer if you're looking to shave off a morning skin-care step. Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, amino acids, and birch tree sap work together to deeply hydrate skin, prevent moisture loss, and minimize inflammation. Editor Tip: "This formula really feels more akin to a lightweight moisturizer than sunscreen and doesn't leave behind any cast whatsoever," commerce editor Sarah Han attests. No wonder it's gone mega-viral on TikTok. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, amino acids, and birch tree sap | Who It's For: All skin types

• Allure Best of Beauty Winner: Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36

  Why It's Worth It: We love a good steal and ensure that each year's Best of Beauty Award winners come in a variety of prices. Case in point: Our steals category has a $15 cap. Innisfree's winning Daily UV Defense Sunscreen almost makes the cut at $16 but, when you consider how lightweight, hydrating, and refreshing this cream is, you won't mind shelling out the extra dollar. Editor Tip: As this formula is very emollient, it might take an extra second to fully rub in, and it might also feel a tiny bit heavy for oily skin. Test out the "two-finger rule" and see how it feels. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Cica, green tea extract, sunflower seed oil | Who It's For: Normal, dry skin

• Best for Minimizing Shine: Neogen Day-Light Protection Sun Screen SPF 50/PA+

  Why It's Worth It: For Dr. Ko Lamm, the Neogen Day-Light Protection Sun Screen SPF50/PA+ checked all the boxes. Now, meet the latest iteration of the fan-favorite formula: Day-Light Protection Airy Sunscreen. Whereas the original was known as a hybrid formula, Airy only uses chemical UV filters, which is why it has an elegant, cast-free finish that spreads easily and absorbs quickly. It goes well under makeup, too, as commerce editor Sarah Han attested. Editor Tip: Thanks to evening primrose, giant pine leaf, ulmus davidiana, and pueraria lobata root extracts, this sunscreen leaves a silky finish that minimizes sebum and shine. It does have a somewhat noticeable citrus scent due to a plethora of plant extracts [including orange peel oil and lime oil] if you're sensitive to scents. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Octocrylene, homosalate, avobenzone, vitamin E, 20 plant extracts including aloe, hibiscus, etc. | Who It's For: People concerned with excess sebum or shine throughout the day

• Best for Easily-Irritated Skin: Suntique I'm Safe For Sensitive Skin SPF 35 PA+

  Why It's Worth It: Korean cast-free technology isn't just limited to chemical formulas. For those seeking mineral sunscreen, whether you have sensitive skin or are pregnant or nursing, Suntique I'm Safe For Sensitive Skin SPF 35 PA+ is a fragrance-free pick that won't exacerbate skin and dries down invisible. Editor Tip: Redness doesn't stand a chance since this formula is spiked with a soothing duo of cica and aloe vera. Type: Mineral | Key Ingredients: Titanium dioxide, cica, aloe leaf extract, jojoba seed oil | Who It's For: Dry, sensitive skin

• Best Sunscreen Serum: Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++

  Why It's Worth It: All aboard the TikTok hype train. Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++ has taken over our feeds for its impossibly lightweight, serum-like formula that leaves skin looking dewy and fresh. According to the brand, this particular sunscreen uses next-generation, photostable chemical UV filters such as Tinosorb M, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, and Iscotrizinol. How's that for innovation? Editor Tip: Skin1004's Centella Air-Fit Sun Cream Light SPF 30 PA++++ is just as soothing and lovely to apply for those who prefer physical sunscreens. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, cica, arugula leaf, green tea, and broccoli extracts | Who It's For: People looking for a super lightweight sunscreen

• Best for Redness: Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Sunscreen

  Why It's Worth It: Ever since it was featured in the Allure Beauty Box, market shopping editor Angela Trakoshis hasn't been able to get enough of the Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Sunscreen, especially since the nongreasy formula is so divine that it keeps her accountable for SPF application. "It's got zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a physical barrier that's safe for sensitive skin, and it dries down glowy without leaving a Casper-like cast," she says. "Whether I'm going on my daily walk or sitting by the window with my laptop, I'll never be tempted to skip sunscreen again." Editor Tip: It is slightly scented [a.k.a. less than 1% synthetic fragrance], so keep that in mind if you have super sensitive skin. It's also not sweat- or water-resistant, so perhaps not the best option for active people. Type: Mineral | Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, orange oil | Who It's For: People who prefer a matte mineral sunscreen

• Best Under Makeup: Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA+++

  Why It's Worth It: Isntree's Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel is a must-try, according to Jenny Liu, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She says this chemical sunscreen is one of her all-time favorites, K-beauty or otherwise, and is "super lightweight, elegant, and great under makeup." Editor Tip: This lotion-like formula dries down to an invisible finish and is chock-full of soothing ingredients like ceramides, cica, glycerin, and eight types of hyaluronic acid to counteract UV-induced damage and dehydration. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, cica, ceramide NP, glycerin, heartleaf | Who It's For: Everyone

• Best for Sensitive Skin: Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun SPF 50+ PA++

  Why It's Worth It: For those with sensitive skin, Allure Korea editors awarded the ultra-light Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun SPF50+ PA++ a Best of Beauty Award back in 2020. The longtime favorite is free of fragrance but rich in soothing cica and heartleaf. Although it's made of 100% zinc oxide, the sunscreen still suits every skin tone. "It doesn't smell or feel like a traditional facial sunscreen, which is great for my sensitive skin," associate digital beauty director Sarah Kinonen, who helped select the winner, said. "The lotion blends into skin easily and doesn't leave any sort of white cast." Editor Tip: Pycnogenol is an ingredient that's extracted from the bark of European pine trees that protects skin against external aggressors like fine dust and smoke. Type: Mineral | Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, cica, vitamin E, heartleaf, pycnogenol | Who It's For: People with sensitive skin who want a fragrance-free sunscreen

• Best Vegan Sunscreen: Espoir Water Splash Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+

  Why It's Worth It: True to its name, the Espoir Water Splash Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+ feels like a burst of hydration on your skin. Its water-like consistency infuses skin with a deliciously soothing combination of chamomile, cica, aloe, and enantia chlorantha bark extract [which reduces sebum secretion and minimizes the look of pores], while prepping it for base makeup. There are two tones, green and pink, for soothing and brightening. Editor Tip: This vegan sunscreen has been tested for skin irritation and certified by a third-party organization, the Korea Agency of Vegan Certification and Services. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Cica, green tea water, niacinamide, rice extract, white ginger lily, enantia chlorantha bark extract | Who It's For: All skin types, but especially dry skin

• Best Sunscreen Stick: AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick SPF 50+ PA++++

  Why It's Worth It: Sometimes you can't be bothered with a tube, especially when you're packing and aren't sure if your favorite sunscreen will pass the TSA check. That's where a sunscreen stick, like the AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick, comes in extremely handy. "This sun stick has a weightless finish for easy application all over the face and body," Dr. Park says. Editor Tip: This solid formula is ideal for targeting areas that need some extra love, like tattoos, which can fade over time due to UV exposure. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, sunflower seed oil, green tea, ceramide NP, shea butter | Who It's For: People who are on-the-go and want an hands-free, touch-up option

• Best for Brightening: d'Alba Waterfull Essence Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++

  Why It's Worth It: Yet another Allure Korea Best of Beauty Award winner on this list is none other than d'Alba's Waterfull Essence Sun Cream. Its clear, barely-there texture and combination of moisturizing and soothing ingredients, such as niacinamide [which can also protect skin from blue light] and white truffle, won the hearts of our Seoul-based peers. Editor Tip: Like many of the options found on this list, d'Alba also offers a mineral sunscreen with the same UVA and UVB ratings, as well as white truffle, cica, and an added dose of anti-inflammatory madecassoside. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: White truffle, niacinamide, cica, heartleaf, turmeric, vitamin E | Who It's For: All skin types, especially dry skin

• Best for Oily Skin: Cosrx Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF 50+

  Why It's Worth It: People with oily-prone skin, meet Cosrx's Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF 50+, which is formulated with silica and cotton extract to keep excess sebum under control, so you don't end up with a greasy T-zone by lunch. For a dose of moisture [because, yes, oily skin needs it], you can count on antioxidant vitamin E and cocoa extract to keep skin feeling soft and nourished. Editor Tip: Unless you have dry skin, it may become a little greasy after a few hours of wear — but nothing too slick or bothersome. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, silica, cotton extract, cocoa extract | Who It's For: People with oily-prone skin

• Best for City Dwellers: Iope UV Defense Sun Protector EX SPF 39

  Why It's Worth It: You may recognize Iope for its award-winning retinol serum or cushion compact but here's your reminder not to sleep on the UV Defense Sun Protector EX SPF 39. It feels soothing on the skin and dries down without a cast — though it might take a moment to fully settle into your skin. It does contain fragrance, which might bother some people. Editor Tip: What sets this sunscreen apart is its Micro Filter formula, which forms a protective barrier over your skin and prevents fine dust from settling. If you're an urbanite who is frequently exposed to harmful air pollution levels, scoop this up. Type: Chemical | Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, silica, cotton extract | Who It's For: People who want protection against pollution/fine dust

Sarah Han is the commerce editor at Allure. Previously, she served as an associate editor and staff writer at BuzzFeed, where she spearheaded coverage on K-pop and beauty. A native Illinoisan, upon graduating from the University of Chicago with a degree in International Studies and minor in Creative Writing,... Read more

Which AHC sunscreen stick is best?

We recommend using the AHC Natural Perfection Pro Shield Sun Stick to top up your sunscreen during the day.

What is the best sunscreen in Korea?

Best Korean Sunscreens.

Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA++++ ... .

Air Rich Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++ ... .

Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ ... .

Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++ ... .

Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++ ... .

Cotton Soft Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++.

Does AHC Sun Stick clog pores?

Korean beauty brand AHC is known for its science-backed formulas and versatile products. The Sun Stick is no different, with completely sheer coverage and broad-spectrum UV protection that won't clog pores.

Is AHC a chemical sunscreen?

Based on a combination of physical [mineral] and chemical [synthetic] filters, the sunscreen developed by AHC experts will provide your skin with safe protection against the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation and provide a refreshing finish.