Spring is finally here and summer is around the corner! Today's wellness POTD is about a skincare and healthcare product that is near and dear to my heart: SUNSCREEN!
If you guys don't know, I carry sunscreen with me everywhere, and even after overnight shifts before walking outside, I put on sunscreen. Of course with all things there are nuances, like do I really need sunscreen at 7am in December? Probably not, since the UV index is low, but it helps me form a habit so that on those sunny days I never forget. Also, picking the right sunscreen for daily use that is moisturizing, lightweight, and that you enjoy using is key to adherence.
So for all you sunscreen-naive people out there, here is an overview of sunscreen and my favorite ones!
Characteristics of Sunscreen
Chemical, mineral, or hybrid filters
Sunscreens that use hybrid or only chemical filters usually have a lighter texture
Mineral sunscreens are heavier and more likely toe leave a chalky residue or white cast
Clear or quickly absorbing formulas that don’t leave a white cast, even on deeper skin tones
Gentle and hypoallergenic formulas that contain fragrance-free and soothing ingredients
Hydrating formulas that contain humectants like hyaluronic acid without feeling heavy or greasy
Makeup-friendly formulas that layers well under foundation/BB cream with no pilling or excessive shine
High SPF, broad-spectrum – ideally SPF 30–50+ with strong UVA protection (PA++++ or “broad spectrum” on US labels)
Korean brand sunscreens are my favorite because of their cosmetically elegant formulations. Here in the US, since sunscreens are a regulated OTC drug by the FDA (which only approves a limited number of UV filters, last updated in 1999) we are wayyy behind South Korea and the EU. The modern “next-gen” filters like Tinosorb S/M and Uvinul A Plus, results in lighter sunscreen formulas. Unfortunately, the 2022 Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), although not directly targeting sunscreens, increased FDA oversight and prompted Korean brands to reevaluate their US distribution. As a result, popular brands like Round Lab, Beauty of Joseon, and Skin1004 reformulated or withdrew their popular SPF50+ products from US channels in 2023–2024. Many US versions now use only FDA-approved filters that often have thicker textures with lower SPF ratings, while others now sell only through international retailers.
Here are my top 5 favorite sunscreens!
1. Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
Type: Chemical sunscreen
Texture/Finish: Lightweight lotion-cream; dewy, non-greasy, no white cast
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combo, sensitive (great under makeup)
Price: ~$15 (50 mL; ~$9/oz)
Where to Buy: YesStyle, Stylevana, Olive Young Global (original Korean version); US version (SPF40) on Amazon
2. Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++
Type: Chemical sunscreen
Texture/Finish: Watery gel; ultra-light, hydrating, no white cast
Skin Type: All skin types, especially dehydrated and combo/oily
Price: ~$20–$25 (50 mL; ~$12/oz)
Where to Buy: YesStyle, Stylevana, Soko Glam, Amazon
3. Skin1004 – Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++
Type: Chemical sunscreen
Texture/Finish: Serum-like; hydrating, slightly dewy, zero white cast
Skin Type: Sensitive, dry, normal (soothing centella-rich formula)
Price: ~$18 (50 mL; ~$10/oz)
Where to Buy: YesStyle, Olive Young Global, Amazon
4. Purito – Daily Go-To Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
Type: Hybrid sunscreen (chemical + a bit of mineral)
Texture/Finish: Light cream; moisturizing but sinks in quickly, low white cast
Skin Type: Sensitive, combo, dry (good for barrier repair)
Price: ~$20 (60 mL; ~$10/oz)
Where to Buy: YesStyle, Stylevana, Amazon (official Purito store)
5. Round Lab – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Type: Chemical sunscreen
Texture/Finish: Moisturizing but lightweight; satin finish, no white cast
Skin Type: Dry, normal, combo (very hydrating but not heavy)
Price: ~$18 (50 mL; ~$10/oz)
Where to Buy: YesStyle, Olive Young Global (original); US SPF45 reformulation available
I hope you all have a happy and skin-healthy day!!!