Top 3 Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin

/ Skincare

Does summer shine make your face look like an oil slick? Oily skin can feel heavy with sunscreen, but Korean skincare has mastered lightweight, matte-finish formulas that protect without clogging pores. These sunscreens control sebum, feel weightless, and keep you radiant through humid days.

I tested several K-beauty favourites to find the top three for oily skin in summer, focusing on non-greasy textures and broad-spectrum protection. Ready for shine-free, protected skin? Here are my picks for the best Korean sunscreens for oily skin!

1. COSRX Vitamin E Vitalising Face Sunscreen SPF50+/PA++++

Best for: Antioxidant-packed protection

COSRX’s Vitamin E Vitalising Face Sunscreen is a lightweight chemical sunscreen that blends effortlessly, leaving a semi-matte finish perfect for oily skin. Its SPF50+/PA++++ offers robust UV protection, while vitamin E and sunflower seed oil fight free radicals, boosting radiance without greasiness.

COSRX Vitamin E Vitalising Face Sunscreen SPF50 PA
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I applied it on a humid 33°C day, and it kept my T-zone shine-free for hours, aligning with beauty community hype for its non-clogging hydration. The silky texture doubles as a makeup base, making it a summer go-to.

  • Key Features: Vitamin E, sunflower seed oil, non-greasy, semi-matte finish, SPF50+/PA++++, fragrance-free.
  • My Take: Keeps shine at bay and feels like nothing—perfect for oily summer skin!

2. Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF50+/PA++++

Best for: Sensitive, oily skin

Haruharu Wonder’s Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen feels like a featherlight moisturiser, absorbing fast with a natural, non-shiny finish. Infused with black rice extract and hyaluronic acid, it hydrates without clogging pores, ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF50 PA
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I used it for a week, and it didn’t trigger breakouts, even on my sensitive cheeks, matching social media praise for its hypoallergenic formula. Its modern UV filters (e.g., Tinosorb S) ensure strong protection, and the fragrance-free formula is a win for sensitive skin.

  • Key Features: Black rice extract, hyaluronic acid, airy texture, fragrance-free, SPF50+/PA++++, non-comedogenic.
  • My Take: So light you forget it’s there—great for sensitive, oily skin in summer!

3. Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish SPF50+/PA+++

Best for: Matte, makeup-friendly finish

Etude House’s Sunprise Mild Airy Finish is a 100% mineral sunscreen with a powdery, matte finish that controls oil all day. Packed with aloe vera, sunflower seeds, and acai berry, it soothes while offering SPF50+/PA+++ protection.

Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish SPF50 PA
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I tested it under makeup, and it didn’t pill or feel heavy, even in 90% humidity, a trait beauty fans love for its sebum-free vibe. The lightweight, non-sticky formula blends without a white cast, making it ideal for oily and combination skin.

  • Key Features: Mineral-based, aloe vera, matte finish, SPF50+/PA+++, non-sticky, 20 plant extracts.
  • My Take: A matte dream that keeps oil in check—perfect under summer makeup!

How to Apply Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin

  • Step 1: Double-cleanse (e.g., with a lightweight gel cleanser) and tone to prep skin for better absorption.
  • Step 2: Apply 1–2 pumps (or a nickel-sized amount for creams) to your face, patting gently for even coverage, especially on oily areas like the T-zone.
  • Step 3: Wait 2–5 minutes before applying makeup to let it set, ensuring no pilling.
  • Step 4: Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure, using blotting papers for midday oil control without disrupting SPF.

Tip: Use a lightweight, water-based moisturiser beforehand if your skin feels dry, but skip heavy creams to avoid greasiness. Store in a cool place to maintain formula stability, based on my tests.

FAQs About Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin

1. Are these sunscreens safe for acne-prone skin?
Yes, all three are non-comedogenic and free of pore-clogging oils, with soothing ingredients like aloe or centella asiatica, ideal for acne-prone skin.

2. Do they leave a white cast?
No, these formulas blend seamlessly without a white cast, even on deeper skin tones, based on user feedback.

3. Can I skip moisturiser with these sunscreens?
If your skin feels hydrated after applying, you can skip moisturiser. Use a lightweight gel moisturiser if needed for extra comfort.

4. Are they sweat- and water-resistant?
Yes, all three resist sweat and light water exposure, but reapply after swimming or heavy sweating for full protection.

5. How often should I reapply?
Every 2 hours during sun exposure, especially in summer, to maintain SPF efficacy.

6. Which is best for sensitive skin?
Haruharu Wonder’s fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula is the gentlest, followed by COSRX for its minimal irritants.

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