The Viral Korean Sunscreens You’ve Seen All Over TikTok

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed Korean sunscreens dominating beauty feeds. Short clips of silky textures melting seamlessly into skin, influencers raving about “no white cast” formulas, and dermatologists explaining why these SPFs are different have helped turn K-Beauty sunscreens into international sensations.

Unlike heavy, sticky formulas of the past, these viral picks feel weightless, hydrating, and skin-friendly, more like moisturizers than sunscreen. It’s no wonder they’re being called the holy grail of daily protection.

But what really makes Korean sunscreens so popular, and which ones are worth adding to your routine?

Why Korean Sunscreens Are So Popular

In South Korea, sunscreen isn’t just a seasonal product, it’s a daily essential. That cultural mindset has shaped formulas that are designed for consistent, everyday use. Instead of being built for the beach or long hours in the sun, most Korean sunscreens are made to feel so comfortable that you’ll actually want to wear them all year round.

Here’s why they’ve become global favorites:

• Elegant textures: Lightweight, fluid creams and gels that absorb quickly without stickiness.

• No white cast: Even high-protection formulas disappear into the skin, making them inclusive across skin tones.

• Multitasking benefits: Infused with ingredients like rice extract, probiotics, birch sap, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate, brighten, and soothe.

• Daily wearability: Easy to apply, easy to reapply, and easy to wash off with a gentle oil cleanser.

• High protection: Most carry SPF50+ with PA++++ ratings, meaning excellent coverage against both UVA (aging, pigmentation) and UVB (burns) rays.

TikTok creators have latched onto these features, showcasing swatches that vanish instantly into skin and reviews that compare the formulas to luxury moisturizers. The result? Millions of views and thousands of fans ready to swap their old sunscreens for K-Beauty staples.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++

This is arguably the most viral Korean sunscreen ever. On TikTok, you’ll see endless clips of its creamy yet weightless texture blending in seamlessly, leaving nothing but a hydrated glow.

• Why people love it: Feels like a moisturizer, hydrates with rice extract and probiotics, and leaves zero residue.

• The hype factor: It’s often labeled the sunscreen that finally convinced people to wear SPF every day.

• Best for: Dry, sensitive, or combination skin needing hydration and protection.

Shop Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics 50ml

Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+

The runner-up in viral fame, Round Lab Birch Juice Sun Cream is known for its cooling, refreshing texture. Many TikTokers describe it as “summer in a bottle,” perfect for humid weather or oily skin that dislikes heavy creams.

• Why people love it: Birch sap delivers soothing hydration, while the silky texture makes reapplication effortless.

• The hype factor: Influencers showcase it as the sunscreen that feels like skincare, not SPF. 

• Best for: Combination or oily skin, hot climates, everyday wear.

Shop Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen 50ml

Aestura Derma UV365 Barrier Hydro Mineral Sunscreen SPF50+

For sensitive skin, Aestura has become the quiet viral hit. While less flashy than Beauty of Joseon or Round Lab, it’s widely respected on TikTok for its gentle, mineral-based formula that doesn’t feel chalky.

• Why people love it: Lightweight and soothing, ideal for barrier support.

• The hype factor: Skincare creators spotlight it as proof that mineral sunscreens can feel elegant too.

• Best for: Sensitive or reactive skin, those preferring mineral filters.

 

Shop AESTURA Derma UV365 Barrier Hydro Mineral Sunscreen 40ml

Torriden Dive In Moisture Sun Cream SPF50+

Torriden’s sunscreen has earned a loyal fanbase thanks to its hyaluronic acid-rich formula that plumps and hydrates skin all day. On TikTok, it’s often compared to a lightweight moisturizer that just happens to deliver SPF50+.

• Why people love it: Comfortable hydration, weightless texture, and reapplication without pilling.

• The hype factor: Influencers say it makes sunscreen feel luxurious, not like a chore.

• Best for: Normal to dry skin, or anyone who wants their SPF to double as a hydrator.

Shop Torriden Dive In Moisture Sun Cream 60ml

Can You Trust Korean Sunscreens?

Yes. While there was once controversy around SPF accuracy, regulatory updates in South Korea quickly closed those loopholes. Today, Korean sunscreens are rigorously tested and trusted by dermatologists worldwide.

The TikTok hype reflects what skincare enthusiasts have known for years: Korean sunscreens are reliable, protective, and enjoyable to use, which is exactly why they’ve become cult favorites across the globe.

Understanding SPF and PA Ratings

When shopping for sunscreen, two key ratings matter most:

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor): Measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.

• PA Rating: Measures protection against UVA rays, which lead to premature aging and pigmentation.

What each PA level means:

• PA+: Low UVA protection

• PA++: Moderate protection

• PA+++: High protection

• PA++++: Extremely high protection (PPD 16+)

Most Korean sunscreens today provide SPF50+ with PA++++, giving you broad-spectrum, high-level defense against both UVA and UVB damage—all in lightweight, elegant formulas that feel amazing on the skin.

Final Thoughts

Korean sunscreens aren’t just a passing trend, they’re changing how we think about daily SPF. Instead of heavy, chalky creams, these formulas deliver powerful UVA/UVB protection in textures so elegant you’ll look forward to applying them.

That combination of function and pleasure explains why TikTok can’t stop talking about them and why we here at K-Beauty Studio love them too! 

Discover our curated range of favorite Korean sunscreens and browse our FAQ's to find your perfect match here.