The Korean sunscreen scandal that started last December not only snowballed into a whole reformation in the Korean sunscreen sector, but it has also raised an important question for all of us.  How do we know if a sunscreen truly is SPF 50 and how as we consumers protect ourselves from being fooled?  If you don’t know anything about what the Korean sunscreen scandal is all about, make sure to check out my original article on the matter.

Xenophobia is at an all-time high with the pandemic putting a pause in the world and with this Korean sunscreen scandal, many people are fearing what is unknown behind the scenes in the Asian beauty world and are stating European and American sunscreens are more trustworthy. Must I remind you Korean sunscreens isn’t the first to have had issues with the SPF indicated on the packaging to later on not deem to be correct.  Many American sunscreens have also had this issue and are actually the most behind when it comes to sunscreen filters.  Just because the K-beauty sunscreen issue was more prominent in the skincare community due to social media blow-up does not mean this is solely a Korean issue.

On the bright side, skincare companies that have sunscreen products in their existing line or have upcoming sunscreens are now more careful with what they release.  Those who already have sunscreens in the market have either taken a step back to reformulate or have discontinued their sunscreens and issued refunds.  In this article, I’ll be compiling all the sunscreens that have been clinically tested in the KIDS (Korean Institute of Dermatological Sciences).  Let’s get into it, this is going to be a heavy article.

The majority of these sunscreens are based on CEO Ahn In Sook (안인숙) latest video on clinically tested sunscreens that have passed the SPF and PA (Korea’s system to indicate UVA levels).  Ahn In Sook is the CEO of Korea Institute of Dermatological Sciences, a third-party lab so they aren’t associated with any brands.

What is SPF? 

SPF is the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and ultraviolet light is invisible to humans.  There are two types of rays that can damage your skin cells, UVB and UVA rays.  UVB rays cause sunburns and develop into skin cancer while UVA rays cause deeper skin damage leading to skin aging and wrinkles.  The SPF number tells you how long the UV radiation would take until it causes irritation and burning.

For example, if it indicates SPF 50, it would take you 50 times longer compared to if you weren’t using sunscreen. SPF 30 allows 3% of UVB rays to penetrate your skin while SPF 50 allows 2% of rays.  Both numbers don’t seem to be that much different, but SPF 30 is allowing 50% more UV radiation to penetrate your skin!

What is PA indicated on sunscreen products?

PA is based on PPD test (Persistent Pigmentation Darkening test) and is used to measure the amount of UVA that can be exposed to without tanning or darkening.  The PA system ranges from PA+ to PA++++.  Four + is the maximum rating and means it has PPD value of 16, meaning the wearer can withstand at least 16 times more UVA with the sunscreen compared to without.

Are sunscreens damaging coral reefs?

There are proven studies that have shown the deterioration of coral reefs happening all around the world with Hawaii being the epicenter of it all due to tourism. The issue has grown so big, a bill was passed in 2018 stating sunscreens containing avobenzone and octocrylene to be banned from sales in Hawaii in efforts to preserve the coral reef and marine life.  Other states including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Marshall Islands, Key West in Florida, and countries like Aruba, Bonaire, Palau have followed.  Not only do coral reefs provide habitat for marine lines and protect the coasts from waves, storms, and floods, they also produce oxygen for the ocean and keeps the ocean alive.

Dr. Jart every sun day waterproof sun milk SPF 50+ PA++++ 19,000 won
Dr Jart every sun day mild sun SPF 43 PA+++ 19,000 won
CKD guaranteed green propolis all mild sun SPF 50+ PA++++ 26,000 won
CKD guaranteed green propolis all covery sun SPF 50+ PA++++ 26,000 won

Dr. Jart every sun day waterproof sun milk SPF 50+ PA++++ 19,000 won
Test results: SPF 55.3, PA++++

I’m not sure why but I can’t seem to find this sunscreen on Dr. Jart website.  The only place that is selling this sunscreen currently is StyleKorean for $16.00 USD.  It is said to have a serum/ lotion texture with no white cast and isn’t sticky either.  Tests indicated Dr. Jart every sun day waterproof sun milk has an SPF of 55.4 with UV blocking power equivalent to 61 and PA+++.

Ingredients: Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate; Octinoxate, Dipropylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane; Decamethyl Cyclopentasiloxane, Butylene Glycol; 1-3- Butylene Glycol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Titanium Dioxide; CI 77891, Ethylhexyl Palmitate; Octyl Palmitate, Octocrylene, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cetearyl Alcohol; Cetostearyl Alcohol, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane; Avobenzone; Parsol 1789, Seawater, Sodium Hyaluronate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Triceteareth-4 Phosphate, Glycol Stearate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-2 Stearate, Silica, Acrylates/ C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Caprylate, Aminomethyl Propanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Dimethicone, Salicylic Acid, Beta-Sitosterol, Cholesterol, Glycerin; Glycerol, Propylene Glycol, Steareth-4, Cholesteryl/ Behenyl/ Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Palmeth-2 Phosphate, Acetyl Dipeptide-3 Aminohexanoate, Alcohol Denat., Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol

Dr Jart every sun day mild sun SPF 43 PA+++ 19,000 won
Test results: SPF is 43 and has PA+++

Dr Jart everyday sun mild sun has a serum/ lotion texture, a slight brightening effect, and isn’t sticky. I’m quite curious about this one but it doesn’t seem to be shelved at Sephora anymore and the only online store that carries this version is Stylevana.

Ingredients: Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Oxide, Propanediol, Titanium Dioxide, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Lauryl Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Caprylyl Methicone, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Sorbitan Caprylate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol

Zinc Oxide: provides extensive protection against UV rays, while soothing the skin at the same time.
*Reef safe

CKD guaranteed green propolis all mild sun SPF 50+ PA++++ 26,000 won
Tests results: SPF 59.8 and PA++++

CKD guaranteed green propolis all mild sun SPF 50+ PA++++ isn’t even a brand I’ve heard or seen of anywhere before. It has a texture between lotion and cream with a slight white cast. 

Ingredients: Propolis extract (39.8%), zinc oxide, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propylheptyl Caprylate, disiloxane, Caprylyl Methicone, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone, propanediol, titanium dioxide, niacinamide, Butyloctyl salicylate, Onion extract, rosemary leaf oil, lavender oil, sodium hyaluronate, Disteadimonium hectorite, magnesium sulfate, triethoxycapryl Lylsilane, 1,2-hexanediol, polyglyceryl-2-dipolyhydroxystearate, laurylpolyglyceryl-3polydimethylsiloxyethyldimethicone, methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, polymethyl Silsesquioxane, dicaprylyl carbonate, glyceryl caprylate, caprylyl glycol, aluminum hydroxide, ethylhexyl glycerin, perfluorooctyl triethoxysilane, adenosine, allantoin, alpha-bisabo Roll, tocopherol, panthenol, yellow iron oxide, red iron oxide, black iron oxide, linalool

CKD guaranteed green propolis all covery sun SPF 50+ PA++++ 26,000 won
Tests results: SPF of 58.6 , PA ++++

This version has a peachy color like a BB cream, feels like a liquid foundation, and is a tinted sunscreen. Out of the two versions, I’m most interested in this tinted version since it can cut down my routine in half and when reapplied throughout the day, you’ll get an even complexion.

Ingredients: Propolis extract (39.8%), zinc oxide, cyclohexasiloxane, butyl octyl salicylate, propanediol, propyl heptyl caprylate, dicaprylyl carbonate, isododecane, caprylyl methicone, polyglyceryl -3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyldimethicone, niacinamide, methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, onion extract, rosemary leaf oil, lavender oil, disteadimonium hectorite, magnesium sulfate, triethoxycaprylylsil Phosphorus, 1,2-hexanediol, polyglyceryl-2 dipolyhydroxystearate, polymethylsilsesquioxane, laurylpolyglyceryl-3polydimethylsiloxyethyldimethicone, glycerylcaprylate , caprylyl glycol, ethylhexyl glycerin, adenosine, ectoin, allantoin, tocopherol, panthenol, linalool

Nature Republic California aloe daily Sun Block SPF 50++++ 15,900 won
Nature republic california aloe waterproof sun block SPF 50+ PA++++
Round Lab 365 Tone-Up Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++
Round Lab 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream PA++++

Nature Republic California Aloe Waterproof Sun Block SPF 50++++ 15,900 won
Test results: SPF 61.3, PA ++++
There wasn’t much description of this other than it has a slight peachy tone to it, has a lotion texture and there is a bit of a white cast but it makes your complexion brightened.  I’ve never really been one to check out Nature republic as I find the brand overall kind of boring and too similar to Innisfree.

Ingredients: Water, Homosalate, Glycerin; Glycerol, Butylene Glycol; 1,3- Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Salicylate; Octisalate, Titanium Dioxide; CI77891, Ethylhexyl Palmitate; Octyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane; Decamethyl Cyclopentasiloxane, Acrylates Copolymer, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane; Avobenzone; Parsol 1789, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Niacinamide; Nicotinamide; Nicotinic Acid Amide, Propanediol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Caprylyl Methicone, Sea Water; Maris Aqua, Hibiscus Rosa- Sinesis Flower/ Leaf Extract, Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract, Leuconostoc/ Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract; Aloe Vera Leaf Extract, Dimethicone, Triceteareth- 4 Phosphate, Glyceryl Stearate; Glyceryl Stearates, PEG-100 stearate, Glycol Stearate, Silica, PEG-2 Stearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sorbitan sesquioleate, Acrylates/ C10-30 Alkyl acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Adenosine, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Penthylene Glycol, Citric Acid, 1,2- Hexanediol, Polyquaternium-51, Cetearyl Alcohol; Cetostearyl Alcohol, Xanthan gum, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Fragrance, CI 77492; Hydrated Ferric Oxide; Yellow Oxide of Iron, CI77491; Ferric Oxide; Red Oxide of Iron

UV Filters: Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Titanium Dioxide, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Avobenzone

Nature republic california aloe waterproof sun block SPF 50+ PA++++

The waterproof version isn’t colored in any way, lightweight in texture with a slight cooling sensation and has little to no white cast.  Of the two, I would check this one out and it does sound like a chemical sunscreen.  I’m not sure why I can’t find this on the official website, so I don’t know what the price is for this version.

*Note: So it does seem like this version of the sunscreen has been discontinued by Nature Republic.*

Round Lab 365 Derma Relief Sun Cream PA++++ 22,500 won

I’ve actually seen these sunscreens around but have always passed on it because the packaging is so boring.  Yes, the packaging does a big part in how someone thinks of a product and will also determine how often you will use it after purchasing.  It is said this sunscreen has a lotion/ cream texture but more on the lotion side, no white cast, and is fast absorbing.  On the official website, it also has won two consumer awards and is noted as reef safe.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Cyclomethicone, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Dibutyl Adipate, Caprylyl Methicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Hydrogen Dimethicone, Aluminum Hydroxide, Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Stearic Acid, Fructooligosaccharides, Saccharide Hydrolysate, Bergamot Fruit Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pullulan, Octyldodecanol, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Panthenol, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Echium plantagineum Seed Oil, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/​Leaf/​Vine Extract, Sunflower Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/​Capric Triglyceride, Tocopherol, Phosphatidylcholine, Ceramide NP, Glycine, Glutamic Acid, Serine, Lysine, Alanine, Arginine, Threonine, Proline, Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol

Round Lab 365 Tone-Up Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++ 22,500 won

This is pretty much the same as the one up above but this one is tinted and has a brightening “tone up” effect.  It has a peachy color, a slight brightening/tone-up effect, and absorbs quickly into the skin. The tone-up sun version is also reef safe if that is something you are looking for.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Zinc Oxide (Ci77947), Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Dipropylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone/​Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Caprylyl Methicone, Peach Extract, Cetyl PEG/​PPG-10/​1 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Magnesium Sulfate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Panthenol, Vinyl Dimethicone/​Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Calamine, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Allantoin, Tocopherol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Yellow Iron Oxide (Ci 77492), Red Iron Oxide (Ci 77491)

SCINIC Enjoy Super Mild Sun Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ 15,000 won
SCINIC Enjoy All Round Airy Sun Cushion EX SPF 50+ PA++++ 22,000 won
Isntree hyaluronic acid watery sun gel SPF 50+ PA++++ 15,400 won
Round Lab Birch Juice Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++ 17,500 won

SCINIC Enjoy Super Mild Sun Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ 15,000 won

I’m not sure if this is a popular brand in Korea, but this is definitely not a brand I’ve seen much with overseas bloggers.  Sumomosuki on Instagram says she absolutely loves this sunscreen and the scent is amazing.  What a tease HAHA.   It is described to have a texture between an essence and a lotion, has a slight yellowish color to it but causes any white cast.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Ethanol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glacier Water, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, White Willow Bark Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract, Lactobacillus/​Soybean Ferment Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polysilicone-15, Sodium Acrylate/​Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer, Caprylyl/​Capryl Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate, Adenosine, Madecassoside, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Tocopherol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Alcohol

UV Filters: Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ethylhexyl Triazone

SCINIC Enjoy All Round Airy Sun Cushion EX SPF 50+ PA++++ 22,000 won

In the video, this cushion was the size of her face!!  I’m not sure why it has to be so big, but I’m kind of here for it haha.  The cushion sponge is said to be stiffer than your usual cushion foundations and applies with a slight white cast.

Ingredients: Water, Zinc Oxide; CI 77947, Isonoyl Isononanoate, Propanediol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Caprylyl Methicone, Isoamyl Laurate, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Lauryl Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloyethyl Dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide; CI 77891, Acrylates Copolymer, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Methyl Trimethicone, Isododecane, 1,2- Hexanediol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Acrylates/ Polytrimethylsiloxymethacrylate Copolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Limonia Acidissima Extract, Yeast Extract, Vanilla Tahitensis Fruit Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris Water, Centella Asiatica Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Mentha Rotundifolia Leaf Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Extract, Silica, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Magnesium Sulfate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, VP/ Hexadecene Copolymer, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Hydroxide; CI 77002, PVP, Stearic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Tocopherol; Vitamin E, Butylene Glycol; 1,3- Butylene Glycol, Panthenol; D Panthenol; Dexpanthenol, Glycerin; Glycerol, Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Dipropylene Glycol, Ceramide NP; ceramide 3, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate

UV filters: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide

Isntree hyaluronic acid watery sun gel SPF 50+ PA++++ 15,400 won

Now, this is one I’ve personally tried before.  When I first tried it, I really didn’t like it since I found the sunscreen just sat on top of my skin and never absorbed it throughout the hours I wore it.  It still does that, but I don’t seem to mind it as much.  I have all three versions, the two liquid versions, and the stick.  On the bright side, I don’t find them to irritate or make my skin itchy after 5 hours of wear.  It is lightweight, slightly cooling, and has little to no white cast.

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Homosalate, Dibutyl Adipate, Niacinamide, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Cyclopentasiloxane, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Polysilicone-15, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Ceramide NP, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycerin, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceteth-10, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Decyl Glucoside, Propanediol, Tocopherol, Astaxanthin, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Acrylates/​C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, Cetyl PEG/​PPG-10/​1 Dimethicone, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin

UV Filters: Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Homosalate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Polysilicone-15

Round Lab Birch Juice Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++ 17,500 won
Test results: SPF 55, PA ++++

This one I’m kind of shocked without fast they turned around to reformulate.  The Round lab birch juice sun cream was first criticized alongside 4 other sunscreens for not having the SPF 50+ indicated.  They however did the classy thing and took charge by apologizing and reformulated relatively fast.  I personally am a huge fan of birch sap in my skincare, so I might have to check this one out.  Green Cos, the problematic manufacturer that manufactured many of the original sunscreens that got called out for, was the manufacturer but has now been switched to Kolmar.  The new reformated version was also put through clinical testing and test results came back with SPF 55, PA++++.

Old version ingredients: Purified Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Poly (methyl) Methacrylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Niacinamide, Behenyl Alcohol, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Birch Sap (1,128ppm), Glyceryl Glucoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Adenosine, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glucose, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate, Artemisia Annua Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Polyisobutene, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Tocopherol, Carbomer, DNA
UV Filters (2): Uvinal A Plus, Tinosorb S

Reformulated ingredients: Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Niacinamide, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Cocoa-Caprylate/Caprate, Caprylyl Methicone, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Birch Sap (1,425ppm), Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Glyceryl Glucoside, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Artemisia Annua Extract, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Oil, Acrylate/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ascorbic Acid, Adenosine, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Tromethamine, Xanthan Gum, t-Butyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Carbomer
UV Filters (4): Uvinal A Plus, Uvinal T 150, Tinosorb M, Uvasorb HEB

 

Dr. G medi UV ultra sun SPF 50+ PA+++ 26,400 won
Dr. Orga premium sun protection cream SPF 50+ PA+++ $35.00
Make prem UV defense me calming sun cream SPF 50+ PA++++ 

Dr. G medi UV ultra sun SPF 50+ PA+++ 26,400 won
Test results: SPF 50.9, PA +++

Here’s a brand I’ve seen here and there but again, never really paid attention to.  I don’t really know anything about it really and it seems to be on the higher end (ish) compared to all the prices in this list.  I might check it out if it ever goes on sale.

Ingredients: Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Titanium Dioxide, Glycerin, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Dipropylene Glycol, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Silica, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter, Thermus Thermophillus Ferment, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Seedcake Extract, Magnesium Sulfate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone/​Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Methicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Adenosine, Panthenol, Mineral Water, Butylene Glycol, Magnesium Aspartate, Sarcosine, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, Potassium Aspartate, PEG-8, PPG-1-PEG-9 Lauryl Glycol Ether, Oxygen, Sodium Polyacrylate, Phytic Acid, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Benzyl Salicylate, Linalool, Geraniol

UV Filters: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Salicylate

Dr. Orga premium sun protection cream SPF 50+ PA+++ $35.00
Test results: SPF 58.7, PA+++

I’m sorry but I have to say that this one is the most unattractive and most expensive out of the ones on this list.  I’ve never really heard of this brand before and don’t even know where to get it to be honest.  If anyone knows anything about this brand or if you’ve tried it, please let me know!

Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Cyclomethicone, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Butylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Caprylic/​Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, Octyldodecanol, Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Beeswax, 1,2-Hexanediol, Magnesium Sulfate, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Aluminum Hydroxide, Alpha Bisabolol, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Xylitylglucoside, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Anhydroxylitol, Water, Xylitol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ci 77492 (Yellow Iron Oxide), Sodium Gluconate, Rose Flower Oil, Glucose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Adenosine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Ci 77491 (Red Iron Oxide), Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Lactobacillus/​Soybean Ferment Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract

UV Filter: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide

Make prem UV defense me calming sun cream SPF 50+ PA++++ 
Test results:  SPF 53.7, PA++++

Those of you who follow me on Instagram know I’m a huge fan of Make prem and have quite a few products from the brand.  I was so close to getting these sunscreens after its renewal only to find out, THEY ALL HAVE ROSE IN IT DAMN IT.  EVERY, SINGLE, VERSION.  I’m so tempted to get it anyways and risk skin irritations LOL, but I know better than that.

Ingredients: Water, Zinc Oxide, Propylheptyl Caprylate, Propanediol, Titanium Dioxide, Disiloxane, Dicaprylyl Ether, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/​Dicaprate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Caprylyl Methicone, Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/​Polyhydroxystearate/​Sebacate, Calamine, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Bambusa Vulgaris Water, Fructan, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Tocopherol, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/​Stem Extract, Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/​Leaf/​Vine Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower Water, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Vinyl Dimethicone/​Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Octyldodecanol, Maltodextrin, Butylene Glycol

UV filters: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide

What is benzene bad for your skin?

There are tons of talks about avoiding benzene in your skin sunscreen and how it is toxic.  Benzene, a component of gasoline and frequently used as a solvent for rubber and waxes is a known human carcinogen that causes cancer.  Valisure, an independent lab whose mission is to bring transparency and increase quality in the pharmaceutical industry, found benzene in 78 sunscreens and after-sun products.  The lab tested 294 batches of products from 69 different companies and found 78 of the products contaminated with toxic ingredients.

The following sunscreens were all tested for any traces of benzene but they all came out negative, thank god!

Biore UV watery gel SPF 50+ PA++++ ¥990 ($8.94 USD)

Biore UV watery gel was also one of the first sunscreens that were tested and came back with results of SPF 55.2.  I swear if this sunscreen was anything less then, the whole world would have a riot considering this is one of the most popular sunscreens of all time.  It’s practically legendary status and people buy them to bring home from Japan by the bags!!  I personally don’t care too much for this sunscreen even though it is nice and lightweight.  I find it to dry out my skin oddly enough LOL.

Thank you Farmer sun project water sun cream SPF 50+ PA+++ $18.00 USD

Thank you farmer’s sun project water sun cream is very similar to Biore’s but it is much more hydrating and doesn’t dry my skin or make it itchy.  You can find this in Costco US for a pretty good deal and this one was tested independently through Tonic15 with the results of SPF 60.72.  This is one of those sunscreens which I’ll never stop recommending and have loved all the other versions they offer as well.  Check out my in-depth reviews here if you are interested.

REFORMULATED BUT NOT TESTED
All these sunscreens somehow were able to go under the radar and pull their sunscreens off the shelf and reformulated before being called out.  These are not tested, so take this information as you will.

Some by Mi true cica mineral 100 calming sun cream SPF 50+ PA++++

OLD manufacturer: Nowcos
OLD Ingredients: Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Zinc Oxide, Silica, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Titanium Dioxide(Ci 77891), Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Stearic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Lauroyl Lysine, Disodium EDTA, Acrylates/​C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Adenosine, Centella Asiatica Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid
UV filters: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide

NEW manufacturer: Perennebel
REFORMULATED Ingredients: Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water(378,000 ppm), Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Oxide, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Titanium Dioxide, Propanediol, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Phenyl Trimethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Dimethicone, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Adenosine, Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract(5,000 ppb), Butylene Glycol, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract(9,800 ppb), Glycolipids, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Flower Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Resveratrol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Asiaticoside(4 ppb), Madecassic Acid(3 ppb), Asiatic Acid(3 ppb), Madecassoside(0.5 ppb), Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Linalool, Limonene
UV Filters: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide

Be plain clean ocean moisture sun cream SPF 50+ PA++++

OLD Manufacturer: Green Cos
OLD Ingredients: Purified Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Niacinamide, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Behenyl Alcohol, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Silica, Pentylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Adenosine, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Undaria Pinnatifida Extract, Hizikia Fusiforme Extract, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate
UV filters: Uvinal A Plus, Tinosorb S

NEW Manufacturer: Kolmar
REFORMULATED Ingredients: Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Niacinamide, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Cocoa-Caprylate/Caprate, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Methicone, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Acrylate/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, t-Butyl Alcohol, Tocopherol
UV Filters: Uvinal A Plus, Uvinal T 150, Tinosorb M, Uvasorb HEB

Espoir Water Splash Suncream Fresh SPF50+ PA++++

Old Manufacturer: InterCos Korea
Old Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Caprylyl Methicone, Dibutyl Adipate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf (Green Tea) Water, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Fragrance, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Cellulose Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin*, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, T-Butyl Alcohol, Ocimum Sanctum (Basil) Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Corallina Officinalis (Red Algae) Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
UV Filters: Uvinal A Plus, Uvinal T 150, Tinosorb S

NEW Manufacturer: Kolmar
REFORMULATED Ingredients: Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Alcohol Denat., Ethylhexyl Triazone, Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, Tromethamine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Caprylyl Methicone, Polysilicone-15, Caprylic/Capric/Succinic Triglyceride, Palmitic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Stearic Acid, Methylpropanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Silica, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Flower Extract, Sodium Polyacrylate, Polyether-1, Myristic Acid, T-Butyl Alcohol, Allantoin, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Water, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
UV Filters: Uvinal T 150, Meroxyl SX, Uvinal A Plus, Parsol SLX, Tinosorb S

Hyggee Real Sun Cream and Vegan Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Old version: (Hyggee Relief Sun Moisturizer SPF 50+, PA++++)

Old Manufacturer: Green Cos
OLD Ingredients: Chamaecyparis Obtusa Water, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Behenyl Alcohol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Niacinamide, Water, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Sodium Acrylate/​Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Polyisobutene, Ammonium AcryloyldimethyltauratenpAcryloyldimethyltaurate/​VP Copolymer, Silica, Bisabolol, Caprylyl/​Capryl Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate, Adenosine, Xylitylglucoside, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Phoenix Dactylifera (Date) Fruit Extract, Triolein, Anhydroxylitol, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Removed Comma Dio Leatedioleate, Xylitol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Opuntia Coccinellifera Fruit Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Glucose, Adansonia Digitata Seed Extract
UV Filters: Uvinal A Plus, Tinosorb S

New Manufacturer: Cosmax
REFORMULATED Ingredients: Water, Alcohol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyohenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Dibutyl Adipate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Hexyl Laurate, Niacinamide, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Caprylyl Methicone, Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2, Chlorella Minutissima Extract, Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract, Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate, Polysilicone-15, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Glucose, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Fructooligosaccharides, Fructose, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Adenosine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA
UV Filters: Uvinal A Plus, Tinosorb S, Uvinal T 150, Amiloxate, Parsol SLX

 

SUNSCREEN GRAVEYARD
Here are all the sunscreens that have either been permanently discontinued until further notice or have been quietly pulled off the shelves with no official explanation.

Purito centella green level unscented sun SPF 50+ PA++++
Both the original and unscented versions of the Purito sunscreens have been discontinued until further notice.  I’m hoping they are looking to change manufactures and reformulated because this was one of my favorite ones from a brand I love and respect.  Although they did mess up, they owned up to it, offered customers refunds (domestically and overseas), they were just transparent throughout the whole time.  Purito is still a brand I love and recommend!

Klairs soft airy UV essence SPF 50 PA++++
Another original sunscreen that got caught up in the “scandal” and has since offered customers refunds.  Wishtrend, the mother brand of Dear Klairs, has also pulled all their SPF products.  Again, Wishtrend handled the situation well and carried themselves with class and grace so I will be still supporting the company.

Keep cool soothe bamboo sun essence SPF 50 PA++++
I really liked this Keep cool sunscreen as well but when there were speculations on whether the filters in these sunscreens were up to standard, the brand lashed out at multiple bloggers/ influencers and threatened to sue.  Of course, the community has caught wind of this and the internet was outraged (read about it here).  They had since come out with an apology, offered refunds which were just store credit to my knowledge compared to Purito and Klairs who offered cashback.  I still kind of look at this brand with a side-eye and won’t really be paying attention to them as much.

B. Lab I’m sorry just sun cream SPF 50+ PA++++

This was another brand that quietly pulled their sunscreen off of shelves with no official statements.  When a user on Reddit asked what the percentage of the two filters used was, the brand’s answer was 1% for both the ingredients.  Yikes..  I’ve been testing out some of their products and I do actually like quite a few of them, so I’m holding hope out for them to have a reformulated version as it was quite popular when it was released.

Cosrx Aloe soothing sun cream SPF 50+ PA+++
This one is a bit of an iffy one.  I read on Reddit where someone asked Cosrx Australia whether or not the SPF 50 was as indicated, but the supposed “brand” representative told them the rating is closer to SPF 38+.  I’m not sure where they pulled this specific number out of, but there was a DM from Cosrx’s official page saying the account Cosrx_AU page is run by @NewFace.au and not a division of their team.  Cosrx also said the information of the SPF rating and testing wasn’t accurate, nor was SPF 38 ever been discussed internally.

Whatever the truth is, I personally don’t care too much for Cosrx’s sunscreens as much as I love the rest of their skincare products.  I find this sunscreen to be not thick but not lightweight either and it just didn’t feel all that great on my skin.  The two newer versions of sunscreens either made my skin itch or gave my skin a slight white cast (read my full review here).

Dr. Jart+ Solarbiome ampoule SPF 50+ PA++++
Dr. Jart’s ampoule sunscreen seemed to be a cool concept but fell short in terms of the SPF rating less than 30!!  Goodness…..  At least they redeemed themselves with the two sunscreens up above.  Yikes…

Hyggee relief sun moisturizer SPF 50+ PA++++
Hyggee relief sun moisturizer was also another sunscreen that got called out with SPF less than 30 in the original video. This sunscreen has been since discontinued and the brand now has 3 sunscreens to choose from, one of them being the new vegan sun cream that has been tested with SPF 50+.

Krave beet the sun SPF 47 PA+++++
A sunscreen with a cult following, many people were saddened with the news that Krave beet the sun was also a sunscreen with SPF less than indicated. If you’d like to read the brand’s official statements, click here.  This product has been since discontinued and no news of whether it will be reformulated just yet.

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Although I’m not happy to know the majority of sunscreens I have in my collection are practically just creams at this point, this did push a lot of us to learn more about sunscreens and how to identify whether sunscreen truly the SPF it states.  This is also an alarm to every Korean brand out there that the consumers are smarter and know better than to get fooled now, so do better.  Hopefully, this article has been helpful to you and if you are thinking of purchasing any sunscreens mentioned, consider using the links I’ve included as they are affiliate links and will give me a small commission upon check out!

Cheers, and stay the heck out of the sun LOL.