Evaluating Three Korean Sunscreens for Daily Sun Protection – THE Sugarblossomdiary

Anyone who has even a slight interest in skin care understands the necessity of sun protection. Regardless of the weather, our skin requires defense against harmful UVA and UVB rays to avoid issues from premature aging to skin cancer. Honestly, I’ve not been diligent with sunscreen this past winter, frequently skipping this crucial step when I’m pressed for time or only plan to be outdoors briefly. Now that the weather is warmer and sunnier, I’m committed to enhance my sun protection routine for good.

My ideal sunscreen is one that is gentle, hydrating, and non-greasy, with a natural finish that leaves no white cast. It must also work well with makeup. In my search for a new favorite, I’ve tried three Korean sunscreens that employ chemical filters for sun protection. Each is lightweight and suited for daily use, while providing various skincare benefits. Continue reading for my thoughts on these three options: THANK YOU FARMER’s Sun Project Skin Relief Sun Cream, iUNIK’s Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen, and APLB’s Glutathione Niacinamide Sunscreen.

Key features:

• Chemical sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ protection
• 8-Relief Complex (containing eight types of plant extracts, including eggplant, honeysuckle flower, and licorice root) and centella asiatica extract work together to calm the skin
• Niacinamide helps control excess oil and minimize acne
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Vegan and reef-safe

My take:

After noticing THANK YOU FARMER’s popular Sun Project Water Sun Cream trending on social media, I was eager to try this updated version, which features a non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formula ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin. The texture of the Sun Project Skin Relief Sun Cream is creamy and smooth, effortlessly applying to the skin while delivering a semi-matte finish with a subtle glow. Despite being lightweight, it is rich in moisture and layers beautifully under makeup, keeping my skin hydrated throughout the day.

My skin has been particularly sensitive during allergy season, and while I did experience a fleeting tingling sensation upon application, the Korean sunscreen caused no visible irritation or breakouts.

Key features:

• Chemical sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ protection
• Formulated with 49% centella asiatica extract to soothe and cool skin
• Locks in moisture and enhances the skin barrier with beta-glucan
• Includes adenosine and niacinamide for anti-aging and brightening properties
• Cruelty-free and made with only EWG green-grade ingredients

My take:

The Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen from iUNIK was delightful to use. The lotion-like formula absorbed swiftly into the skin, leaving a refreshing sensation. It provides a soft, satin-matte finish, allowing for easy application with minimal rubbing. There was no white cast, and it didn’t leave a greasy or sticky residue. The sunscreen’s ultra-lightweight texture felt comfortable on my skin, even after multiple applications throughout the day. Usually, the chemical sunscreen works well under lightweight makeup, although occasionally it can cause my foundation to settle in my pores.

Key features:

• Chemical sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ sun protection
• Infused with 20,000ppm niacinamide and glutathione to rejuvenate dull skin
• Centella 3x Complex (featuring three types of cica-derived ingredients) provides soothing properties
• A blend of plant extracts nourishes the skin and supports barrier function
• Contains hyaluronic acid and beta-glucan to combat dryness
• Hypoallergenic formula

My take:

Besides its lightweight and creamy texture that offers a flawless finish, I was also impressed by the smooth and adherent nature of the Glutathione Niacinamide Sunscreen. While it takes a bit to fully rub in, the sunscreen becomes virtually invisible once absorbed. Its velvety texture works well with makeup, and the fragrance-free formulation kept irritation at bay for my sensitive skin.

If I had to mention one small drawback, it’s that this product left a slightly dewy finish, which made my T-zone appear a bit shiny. However, a quick dusting of powder was enough to achieve a matte look.

Final Verdict

I embarked on this trial with the expectation that at least one product among the trio would be underwhelming. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of all three Korean sunscreens, which were generally moisturizing and left little to no white cast. Moreover, all three formulas are makeup-friendly.

While the Sun Project Skin Relief Sun Cream from THANK YOU FARMER did cause a slight stinging sensation on my face, I plan to continue using it on my neck and body. The Glutathione Niacinamide Sunscreen from APLB and the Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen from iUNIK are definite keepers as they are gentle enough for my sensitive skin and their easy-to-apply formulas make them perfect for everyday sun protection.