If you have oily skin, you know the struggle — most sunscreens feel heavy, leave a greasy shine, or clog your pores. But sun protection is non-negotiable, even for breakout-prone or shiny skin.
Thankfully, Korean skincare brands have mastered lightweight, non-comedogenic sun protection, and in 2025, there are more advanced options than ever.
In this guide, we’ll share the best Korean sunscreens for oily skin in 2025 — all tested or loved by oily-skin users. Whether you’re dealing with excess sebum, acne, or just want a matte finish, these picks deliver effective sun protection without the heavy, sticky feel.
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Why Korean Sunscreens Work for Oily Skin
One of the biggest advantages of Korean sunscreens is how they’re designed to feel invisible on the skin. For people with oily skin, this is a game-changer.
Here’s why they stand out:
1. Lightweight, Gel-Based Textures
Unlike heavy Western sunscreens, many Korean formulas come in watery gels or emulsions. These absorb quickly and don’t sit on top of the skin — perfect if you deal with a greasy T-zone by noon.
2. Matte or Semi-Matte Finish
Korean sunscreens often leave a non-shiny finish, helping control oil throughout the day. Some even include oil-absorbing powders or sebum-controlling ingredients.
3. Skin-Friendly Ingredients
Many Korean SPFs double as skincare. They include soothing or oil-balancing ingredients like:
- Green tea (antioxidant + oil-control)
- Niacinamide (regulates sebum)
- Centella Asiatica (calms redness and acn
4. Advanced UV Filters
Korean sunscreens use next-gen filters like Tinosorb, Uvinul A Plus, and Mexoryl — offering stronger UVA protection with better skin feel than old-school filters like oxybenzone.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, switching to a Korean sunscreen might be the easiest way to protect your skin without clogging pores or adding shine.
Best Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin in 2025
Here are the top Korean sunscreens that work beautifully on oily, acne-prone, or combination skin — all with lightweight textures, a non-greasy finish, and strong protection.
1. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
A cult-favorite for a reason — this sunscreen feels more like a light moisturizer than SPF.
- Texture: Creamy but absorbs instantly with no white cast
- Why it’s great for oily skin: Lightweight finish, zero greasiness, and includes skin-soothing probiotics
- Hero ingredients: Rice extract (brightening), Niacinamide, Green Tea
- Finish: Natural to semi-matte
- Pros:
- ✅ Non-comedogenic
- ✅ Layers well under makeup
- ✅ Great for sensitive & acne-prone skin
- Cons: May feel too light for dry skin types
2. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++
This is a top pick for combination/oily skin that still needs hydration without heaviness.
- Texture: Lightweight lotion, slightly cooling
- Why it’s great for oily skin: Soaks in quickly, controls shine, and hydrates without heaviness
- Hero ingredients: Birch juice, Hyaluronic acid
- Finish: Natural — not shiny or too matte
- Pros:
- ✅ Calms skin
- ✅ No white cast
- ✅ Good for acne-prone users
- Cons: Can feel slightly tacky in humid weather
3. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Loved in Korea for its gentle formula and water-like finish.
- Texture: Lightweight lotion, slightly cooling
- Why it’s great for oily skin: Soaks in quickly, controls shine, and hydrates without heaviness
- Hero ingredients: Birch juice, Hyaluronic acid
- Finish: Natural — not shiny or too matte
- pros
- ✅ Calms skin
- ✅ No white cast
- ✅ Good for acne-prone users
- Cons: Can feel slightly tacky in humid weather
4. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++
Affordable, simple, and super effective — this is a beginner-friendly K-beauty SPF.
- Texture: Lightweight cream with aloe
- Why it’s great for oily skin: Doesn’t clog pores, absorbs quickly
- Hero ingredients: Aloe Vera, Panthenol
- Finish: Slightly dewy
Perfect for sensitive, acne-prone oily skin.
- Texture: Soft lotion
- Why it’s great for oily skin: Minimal ingredients, no fragrance or alcohol
- Hero ingredients: Madecassoside, Panthenol
- Finish: Semi-matte
- Pros:
- ✅ Skin-barrier safe
- ✅ Great for breakout-prone skin
- Cons:
- Lower SPF than some others
How to Choose the Right Korean Sunscreen for Oily Skin
With so many Korean sunscreens on the market, it’s important to choose one that fits your skin type, lifestyle, and daily routine. Here’s what to consider:
1. Look for Lightweight Textures
If you have oily skin, skip thick creams or balms. Instead, go for:
- Gels
- Watery lotions
- Emulsions
These absorb quickly and don’t leave a greasy film on your skin.
2. Check for a Matte or Natural Finish
Avoid anything labeled “glow” or “dewy,” as those are meant for dry skin. Instead, look for:
- Matte finish
- Sebum-controlling
- Non-greasy
Tip: If you wear makeup, a semi-matte sunscreen can double as a primer!
3. Watch for Pore-Clogging Ingredients
Stick to non-comedogenic formulas and avoid heavy oils or silicones (unless tested on oily skin). Good signs:
- Alcohol-free (gentler on sensitive skin)
- Fragrance-free (for acne-prone skin)
- Low irritant or “minimal ingredient” sunscreens
4. Pick the Right UV Filter Type
There are two types of filters:
- Chemical sunscreens: Absorb UV rays (lightweight, usually no white cast)
- Physical (mineral) sunscreens: Reflect UV rays (may leave a white cast but are often gentler)
Most Korean sunscreens use modern chemical filters (like Uvinul A Plus and Tinosorb) that are effective and lightweight.
5. Know Your Skin Goals
Different sunscreens offer more than just UV protection. Choose one that helps your skin:
- Acne-prone? Look for calming ingredients like Centella or Madecassoside
- Dull skin? Try rice extract or niacinamide for brightening
- Redness? Aloe vera or panthenol are great soothing options