Korean Sunscreens: Why They Feel Better, Work Better, and Are Worth the Switch

ali wilcox
Apr 19
2 min read

Let’s be honest: most American sunscreens don’t feel great. They’re thick, greasy, and can leave your skin looking ghostly. That’s one of the big reasons we recommend Korean sunscreen at Glow Studio. But the differences go way beyond just texture—K-beauty SPF is in a league of its own, and here’s why.

1. More Advanced Ingredients = Better Protection

American sunscreen is stuck using the same old ingredients from the '90s (literally). That’s because the FDA has a slow approval process, and no new UV filters have been added in decades.

Korean SPF? Completely different story. Korean sunscreens use newer, smarter filters—like Uvinul A Plus and Tinosorb S—that give you stronger, longer-lasting protection without irritating your skin.

2. It Feels Like Skincare (Because It Basically Is)

Korean sunscreen is made to feel good. It goes on like a lightweight moisturizer or serum, not a sticky layer you’re dying to wash off.

And because it blends in beautifully with no white cast, it works for every skin tone and layers perfectly under makeup (or on bare, glowing skin).

3. Extra Skin Benefits Built Right In

Korean sunscreens usually include skin-loving ingredients like:

Niacinamide to brighten
Centella Asiatica to calm
Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate
Green Tea to protect

So instead of just blocking UV rays, they’re actively helping your skin stay smooth, calm, and happy.

4. You Can Trust the Label—SPF + PA Ratings Explained

SPF only tells you how well a product protects against UVB rays (the ones that burn). But what about UVA rays—the ones that cause wrinkles, sun spots, and long-term damage?

That’s where the PA rating comes in.Originally developed in Japan and used widely in Korea, PA ratings measure UVA protection:

PA+ = Some UVA protection
PA++ = Moderate UVA protection
PA+++ = High UVA protection
PA++++ = Extremely high UVA protection

So when you see SPF 50+ / PA++++, it means you're getting broad-spectrum protection—both from burning and aging rays. In short: it’s what you want on your skin, every single day.

Why We Recommend K-Beauty Sunscreen at Glow Studio

We don’t sell hype—we recommend what actually works. Korean SPF is one of the few skincare swaps that feels better from day one and protects better long term. Once clients try it, they rarely go back.

Need help finding your perfect match? We’ve got you. Ask us during your next facial, and we’ll help you choose the right formula for your skin type and routine.

PS: If sunscreen has ever made you break out, sting, or feel sticky—this could be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.