Best Korean Sunscreens 2026: Top-Ranked Picks on Olive Young Right Now

Korean sunscreens have quietly become one of the most searched skincare products on the planet. Global buyers aren’t just buying them for SPF protection — they want the lightweight texture, the tone-up glow, the no-white-cast finish, and the skin-nourishing ingredients that Korean formulators have perfected over decades. If you’re a reseller, a K-beauty retailer, or simply someone who wants to know which Korean sunscreens are actually worth buying right now, there’s no better place to start than Olive Young.

This guide breaks down the top 10 Korean sunscreens ranked by Olive Young’s live popularity data (as of February 2026), covering all 773 products in their sunscreen category. These aren’t paid placements — the rankings are driven by real purchase volume and verified customer reviews. We’ve translated each product’s key claims, listed current prices in both KRW and USD, and added reseller notes for buyers looking to source these products wholesale.

Why Olive Young Rankings Are the Best Signal in K-Beauty

Olive Young is South Korea’s dominant health and beauty chain — the Korean equivalent of Sephora and Ulta combined, with over 1,300 physical stores and a dominant online platform. Unlike influencer rankings or brand-sponsored lists, Olive Young’s popularity ranking algorithm factors in real-time sales volume, review count, review scores, and repurchase behavior. When a product climbs this ranking, it means Korean consumers — arguably the most discerning skincare shoppers in the world — are repeatedly buying it.

For overseas buyers and resellers, this is invaluable data. A product trending on Olive Young today will typically appear on global K-beauty platforms (YesStyle, StyleKorean, Amazon) within 3–6 months. Sourcing early means securing better margins before the global demand surge.

Top 10 Korean Sunscreens Right Now: Olive Young Ranked

#1. Goodal – Green Tangerine Heartleaf Calming Moisture Sun Cream

Goodal’s 맑은 어성초 진정 수분 선크림 (Heartleaf Calming Moisture Sun Cream) sits at the top of Olive Young’s popularity ranking, and it’s easy to see why. This sunscreen leverages houttuynia cordata (어성초, heartleaf) — a powerhouse botanical known for its pore-minimizing, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. It’s become a go-to for anyone with redness-prone, acne-prone, or combination skin.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Green Tangerine Extract, Hyaluronic Acid
  • Price: 18,900 KRW (~$14 USD) — currently on sale from 22,000 KRW
  • Best for: Oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types
  • Reseller note: Goodal has strong brand recognition among K-beauty-educated consumers in Southeast Asia and the US. The 1+1 bundle promotion makes restocking particularly attractive for resellers offering value sets.

#2. Round Lab – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream

Round Lab has built one of the most loyal followings in Korean clean beauty, and their 자작나무 수분 선크림 (Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream) is a cornerstone product. The star ingredient is birch tree sap (자작나무 수액), harvested from Jeju Island’s birch forests, which delivers deep, sustained hydration without a greasy finish. The formula has been praised globally for its “nothing-on-skin” feel — zero white cast, zero pilling.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (90%), Ceramide, Panthenol
  • Price: 16,900 KRW (~$12.50 USD) — sale price with cleanser gift set included
  • Best for: Dry to normal skin, dehydrated skin, anyone sensitive to heavy sunscreens
  • Reseller note: Round Lab is consistently one of the fastest-growing K-beauty brands on global platforms. The clean beauty positioning and minimalist packaging photograph exceptionally well — crucial for social commerce and Instagram retail.

#3. d’Alba – Pink Tone-Up Sweat Proof Sun Cream

Italian-born, Korean-formulated: d’Alba occupies a unique position in the K-beauty landscape. Their 핑크 톤업 선크림 (Pink Tone-Up Sun Cream) is a bestseller for good reason. The pink-tinted formula delivers an immediate brightening effect — imparting a warm, rosy glow that works beautifully on East Asian to medium skin tones. The “Sweat Proof” variant has been particularly popular among consumers who want outdoor-ready sun protection without sacrificing elegance.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: White Truffle Extract, Peptides, Pink Pearl Powder
  • Price: 35,700 KRW (~$26.50 USD) — duo kit (50ml + 50ml) from original 51,000 KRW
  • Best for: Normal to dry skin, those who want a foundation-alternative finish
  • Reseller note: d’Alba commands premium retail pricing, making it one of the highest-margin sunscreens in this category. Its aspirational positioning (Italian-inspired luxury meets K-beauty efficacy) resonates strongly in European and Southeast Asian markets.

#4. Innisfree – Daily UV UVB Tone-Up No-Sebum Sun Cream

Innisfree needs little introduction — it’s one of Korea’s most globally recognized beauty brands. Their 데일리 유비이 톤업 노세범 선크림 (Daily UV UVB Tone-Up No-Sebum Sun Cream) is Innisfree’s answer to the “daily everything” sunscreen: broad-spectrum UV protection, a tone-up brightening finish, and sebum control — all in one lightweight formula. The Jeju green complex keeps things fresh and nature-aligned, consistent with Innisfree’s green brand identity.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Jeju Green Complex, Cica (Centella Asiatica), Niacinamide
  • Price: 19,500 KRW (~$14.50 USD) — sale price from 25,000 KRW
  • Best for: Oily and combination skin, everyday use under makeup
  • Reseller note: Innisfree’s global brand equity makes this an easy sell even to consumers unfamiliar with Korean sunscreens specifically. Stock this as your entry-level SKU — the accessible price point and trusted brand name minimize buyer hesitation.

#5. Aestura – DermaUV365 Barrier Moisture Mineral Sun Cream

Aestura is one of Korea’s leading dermocosmetic brands, positioned as the sensitive-skin specialist. Their 더마UV365 장벽수분 무기자차 선크림 (DermaUV365 Barrier Moisture Mineral Sun Cream) is a physical (mineral/inorganic) sunscreen, meaning it uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as its UV filters rather than chemical absorbers. This makes it far gentler on compromised skin barriers, reactive skin, and anyone with chemical sunscreen sensitivities.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Ceramide NP, Madecassoside, Panthenol
  • Price: 23,800 KRW (~$17.60 USD) — 50% bonus volume promotion
  • Best for: Sensitive, rosacea-prone, post-procedure skin; anyone avoiding chemical UV filters
  • Reseller note: The mineral/physical sunscreen category is growing rapidly in Western markets as consumers educate themselves on UV filter safety. Aestura’s dermatologist-endorsed credibility is a significant selling point in health-conscious markets.

#6. Make P:rem – PDRN Blemish Tone-Up Sun Serum

Make P:rem brings one of 2025-2026’s most exciting skincare ingredients — PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) — into a sunscreen format. Originally used in medical aesthetics for wound healing and tissue regeneration, PDRN has made the leap into mainstream skincare for its ability to fade blemishes, improve skin texture, and support the skin’s natural repair cycle. The PDRN 잡티 톤업 선세럼 (PDRN Blemish Tone-Up Sun Serum) is a hybrid serum-sunscreen that targets sun protection and skin correction simultaneously.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: PDRN, Niacinamide, Tone-Up Pigments
  • Price: 18,200 KRW (~$13.50 USD) — on sale from 26,000 KRW + 20ml bonus included
  • Best for: Skin with uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, or post-acne marks
  • Reseller note: PDRN is the next big buzzword in K-beauty after peptides and probiotics. Stocking this early positions your store as a trend-forward K-beauty destination. The “serum + sunscreen” format also commands higher perceived value and retail pricing.

#7. B-plain – Green Mung Bean Cooling Moisture Sun Cream

B-plain‘s 녹두 쿨링 수분 선크림 (Green Mung Bean Cooling Moisture Sun Cream) has become a summer essential in Korea, loved for its immediate cooling sensation upon application. Green mung bean extract (녹두) is a traditional Korean ingredient historically used for skin soothing and brightening. The formula delivers a refreshing, watery finish that feels almost medicated — perfect for hot, humid climates or anyone who runs hot during the day.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Mung Bean Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Cooling Agents
  • Price: 22,200 KRW (~$16.40 USD) — 1+1 bundle promotion
  • Best for: Oily skin, hot climates, sensitive and reactive skin types
  • Reseller note: The current limited-edition Manggom character collaboration packaging has driven viral social media attention in Korea. Character collabs consistently boost short-term sell-through — stock now while the promotional momentum is active.

#8. AHC – Masters Aqua Rich Sun Cream

AHC (Aesthetic Hydration Cosmetics) is one of Korea’s best-known skincare exports, famous for pioneering the “eye cream for the face” concept. Their 마스터즈 아쿠아리치 선크림 (Masters Aqua Rich Sun Cream) extends the brand’s hydration expertise into SPF. The Aqua Rich formula is a water-gel hybrid that provides intense, long-lasting moisture while maintaining a breathable, non-greasy finish. It’s one of the few sunscreens that genuinely works as a moisturizer replacement in humid conditions.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid (5 types), Marine Collagen, Aqua Complex
  • Price: 24,900 KRW (~$18.40 USD) — 1+1 promotion from 27,900 KRW
  • Best for: Dry and dehydrated skin, anyone who wants a moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid
  • Reseller note: AHC carries strong brand recognition from its global advertising campaigns featuring Korean celebrities. The celebrity-endorsed brand equity translates well in markets that follow K-pop and Korean entertainment.

#9. Dr.G – Green Mild Up Sun Plus

Dr.G (by Gowoonsesang Cosmetics) is one of Korea’s most trusted dermatological skincare brands, with a 20-year reputation built on clinical efficacy and gentle formulation. Their 그린 마일드 업 선 플러스 (Green Mild Up Sun Plus) is a physical (inorganic) sunscreen designed specifically for sensitive and compromised skin. The “Up” in the name refers to its mild skin-perfecting finish — a subtle brightening effect that doesn’t irritate or clog pores. It’s won multiple clean beauty certifications and has a devoted following among eczema and rosacea sufferers.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Green Barley Sprout Extract, Madecassoside
  • Price: 19,900 KRW (~$14.70 USD) — on sale from 29,000 KRW + 20ml bonus
  • Best for: Sensitive skin, eczema-prone skin, post-treatment skin, children (fragrance-free variants available)
  • Reseller note: Dr.G has a particularly strong following in the US clean beauty community, where its clinical positioning and fragrance-free formula resonate with health-conscious consumers. Dermatologist recommendations drive consistent repurchase behavior.

#10. Beauty of Joseon – Daily Tinted Sun Serum

Rounding out the top ten is a newer entry from one of K-beauty’s most celebrated brands. Beauty of Joseon‘s 데일리 틴티드 선세럼 (Daily Tinted Sun Serum) is a tinted, serum-weight sunscreen that blurs the line between skincare and base makeup. The light tint coverage — available in multiple shades — evens out skin tone while delivering SPF50+ protection. It’s gaining rapid traction as a no-makeup makeup essential for people who want polished skin without a full foundation routine.

  • SPF/PA: SPF50+ PA++++
  • Key ingredients: Rice Bran, Probiotics, Tint Pigments, Peptides
  • Price: 14,400 KRW (~$10.70 USD) — on sale from 20,000 KRW + cushion puff gift
  • Best for: Anyone wanting light tinted coverage, minimal-makeup wearers, K-pop makeup aesthetic fans
  • Reseller note: Beauty of Joseon already has a massive global fanbase built around their Relief Sun sunscreen. This tinted serum is a natural upsell or bundle partner for existing Beauty of Joseon stockists. For a full brand deep-dive, see our complete Beauty of Joseon wholesale guide.

Korean Sunscreen Trends Shaping 2026

Looking at this year’s top-ranked products, several clear trends emerge that will shape K-beauty globally for the next 12–18 months:

Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens Are Mainstream Now

Three of the top 10 products on this list — Aestura, Dr.G, and Athe — are 무기자차 (mineral/inorganic) sunscreens. Until recently, mineral sunscreens had a reputation for leaving white cast and thick texture. Korean formulators have solved this problem. The new generation of Korean mineral sunscreens uses micronized zinc oxide with advanced dispersant technology to deliver the skin-safety benefits of physical UV filters without the cosmetic drawbacks. For global resellers, this is important: Western consumers are actively seeking chemical-sunscreen alternatives, and Korean brands now offer the best of both worlds.

Serum-Hybrid Formats Are Replacing Traditional Creams

Make P:rem’s PDRN Sun Serum and Beauty of Joseon’s Tinted Sun Serum represent a broader product evolution: sunscreens that function as multiple skincare steps simultaneously. The market is moving toward products that protect, treat, and finish skin in one step — reducing routine complexity for busy consumers and increasing perceived value for retailers.

Functional Ingredients at the Forefront

PDRN, ceramides, probiotics, heartleaf, birch sap, mung bean — this year’s top sunscreens are as ingredient-driven as any serum or essence. Korean consumers now expect their sunscreen to actively improve their skin, not just protect it. This “skincare sunscreen” category commands higher price points and stronger brand loyalty than traditional SPF products.

How to Source These Sunscreens for Resale

If you’re looking to add these products to your retail lineup, you have several sourcing options depending on your order volume and business model:

Olive Young Global (oliveyoung.com)

Olive Young’s official global platform ships directly to over 100 countries. For smaller resellers (under 50 units per SKU), this is the easiest entry point — no import paperwork, straightforward international shipping, and access to the full product catalog. The trade-off is higher per-unit cost compared to wholesale channels.

Korean B2B Wholesale Platforms

Platforms like StyleKorean B2B, Cosmeto, and KoreaTradehub offer tiered wholesale pricing with lower MOQs than going direct to brands. You’ll typically need to provide business registration documents, but pricing can be 20–40% below retail. For the full breakdown of how Korean wholesale MOQ structures work, see our comprehensive MOQ guide for K-beauty buyers.

Direct Brand Contact

For brands like Round Lab, B-plain, and Make P:rem — which are smaller, independent Korean brands — direct brand contact is feasible and can yield the best margins. Most brands have export departments and welcome serious international wholesale inquiries. For shipping and logistics considerations once you’ve secured a supplier, our Korea cosmetics shipping guide covers everything from customs documentation to freight options.

Understanding Korean SPF Labels: A Quick Primer

Before buying, it’s worth understanding what Korean SPF labeling actually means — especially the PA system, which is unique to Asian markets:

  • SPF (Sun Protection Factor): Measures UVB protection. SPF50+ is the maximum rating on Korean products and blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays.
  • PA (Protection Grade of UVA): Measures UVA protection using a + system. PA+ (low), PA++ (moderate), PA+++ (high), PA++++ (ultra — the highest). All 10 products on this list carry PA++++.
  • 무기자차 vs 유기자차: Korean labeling for mineral (physical) vs chemical UV filters. 무기자차 = mineral/inorganic = gentler on skin, better for sensitive types. 유기자차 = chemical = typically lighter texture, invisible finish.

One advantage Korean sunscreens have over Western counterparts: Korean cosmetic regulations allow UV filters not yet approved in the US (such as Tinosorb and Mexoryl), enabling formulas that achieve broad-spectrum coverage with lighter, more elegant textures.

Final Thoughts: Which Korean Sunscreen Should You Start With?

If you’re building a K-beauty sunscreen lineup from scratch, here’s a simple framework based on this ranking data:

  • Best entry-level pick: Innisfree Daily UV UVB Tone-Up (trusted brand, accessible price, universal appeal)
  • Best for sensitive skin market: Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun Plus or Aestura DermaUV365 (mineral formulas, dermatologist credibility)
  • Best premium positioning: d’Alba Pink Tone-Up or Make P:rem PDRN Sun Serum (high perceived value, innovation story)
  • Best trending pick: Round Lab Birch Juice Sun Cream (explosive global fanbase, clean beauty positioning)
  • Best brand equity play: Beauty of Joseon Tinted Sun Serum (existing global fanbase, easy upsell from their Relief Sun)

The Korean sunscreen category is one of the most dynamic and highest-growth segments in global beauty right now. These Olive Young rankings represent real, unfiltered consumer demand — the closest thing to a real-time market intelligence report that any international buyer can access for free. Bookmark this guide and check back as rankings evolve through 2026’s peak sun season. And if you’re ready to start sourcing, subscribe to the Eric Oppa newsletter for monthly updates on which Korean products are gaining traction before they go global.

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