Collection: Sunscreens

Yes, you should wear Korean sunscreen every single day as UV rays can always reach your skin no matter the weather. These rays easily penetrate through thick clouds, fog and even glass windows. Whether you are spending the day outdoors or staying inside, daily protection is essential. Consistent use prevents sunburns and signs of ageing like fine lines, deep wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.

The highest level of sun protection is offered by a broad-spectrum formula rated SPF 50+ with PA++++.  SPF (short for ‘Sun Protection Factor’) measures protection against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn, and is rated on a scale from 15 to 50+. PA, on the other hand, indicates the level of protection against UVA rays, which are the main cause of cellular ageing and dark spots. This indicator can range from lowest PA+ to highest PA++++. The perfect example of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-fresh: Rice + B5.

There isn’t a single exact amount of sunscreen that suits everyone; however, the general rule is to apply two to three fingers' worth of product to adequately protect both your face and neck. Squeezing out lines of sunscreen along the length of your pointer and middle fingers will guarantee more than enough protection. 

When it comes to Korean sun sticks, measuring by fingers isn't possible, so the rule changes to coverage. To get the full level of protection, you should swipe the stick back and forth across each area of your skin a couple of times. This ensures you don't miss any spots and lay down a thick enough layer to keep your skin fully shielded throughout the day.

Absolutely. In fact, Korean sunscreens are celebrated globally for being exceptionally accommodating to darker skin tones. While older, traditional sunscreens relied on heavy minerals that left a pasty, blue, or ashy film, K-Beauty utilises advanced UV filters that melt completely clear into the skin, offering high-performance protection with zero white cast. Among the most loved Korean SPFs that leave absolutely no traces behind are the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics and the Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Suns creen.

Sunscreens typically last for 2 to 3 hours during active sun exposure. Sweat, natural skin oils, friction from touching your face, and water contact can gradually break down the protective layer. To maintain continuous protection, it is recommended to reapply SPF every 2 hours, especially if you are outdoors or sweating. On-the-go Korean sun sticks or sun cushions make this step incredibly easy, even over makeup.

The main difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens lies entirely in their active ingredients and how they interact with UV rays.

Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens use natural minerals like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide that sit on top of the skin and create a physical shield to deflect and scatter UV rays away from the face. They are often recommended for children and those with sensitive skin or rosacea. Because they remain on the skin's surface rather than being absorbed, they are also commonly recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Among the mineral sunscreens at Malkn, you can find Dr. Ceuracle Tea Tree Purifine Green Up Sun and haruharu wonder Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief Daily Sunscreen. 

Chemical Sunscreens, on the other hand, use organic UV filters that act like a sponge, absorbing UV rays into the skin and safely converting them into non-damaging heat, which is then released. They are typically more lightweight than mineral sunscreens and are often preferred for their transparent and completely invisible formula. A good example of a chemical sunscreen is Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel.