If you live in a hot, humid climate and have oily or acne-prone skin, sunscreen can feel like the hardest skincare step to get right. Heavy textures clog pores, greasy finishes trigger breakouts, and many Western sunscreens simply don’t hold up well in humidity.
Korean sunscreens stand out because they’re designed for daily wear, high UVA protection, and humid Asian summers—the same conditions that cause sunscreen to fail elsewhere. Below are Korean sunscreens that are genuinely popular in Korea, sold at Olive Young, highly rated on Hwahae, and trusted by people with oily, acne-prone skin.
Why Korean Sunscreens Work Better in Humid Weather
Before the list, it helps to understand why Korean formulas perform differently:
- Advanced UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S/M) → stronger UVA protection
- PA++++ ratings → better defense against aging & hyperpigmentation
- Lightweight lotion, serum, or fluid textures → no pore clogging
- Skincare-first formulations → calming ingredients for acne-prone skin
Most Korean daily sunscreens are designed to feel like moisturizer, not beach sunscreen.
Top Korean Sunscreens for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin
1. Numbuzin No.1 Clear Filter Sun Essence SPF50+ PA++++
Best overall for oily, sensitive, acne-prone skin
Why it works
- Ultra-light essence texture
- Zero white cast
- Excellent under makeup
- No pore congestion even in humidity
Best for: Oily, sensitive, acne-prone, combination
Finish: Natural, skin-like
Why Koreans love it: Feels invisible, perfect for daily city use
2. Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
Best calming sunscreen for acne flare-ups
Why it works
- High Centella content to calm inflammation
- Serum-like, fast-absorbing texture
- No stinging around eyes
Best for: Acne-prone, sensitive, dehydrated oily skin
Finish: Fresh, slightly dewy but not greasy
Korean usage: Extremely popular for daily reapplication
3. Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
Best matte finish without dryness
Why it works
- Soft matte, powdery finish
- Fragrance-free
- Doesn’t suffocate pores
Best for: Very oily, acne-prone, sensitive
Finish: Semi-matte
Ideal climate: Hot, humid summers
4. Dr. G Green Mild Up Sun SPF50+ PA++++ (Mineral)
Best mineral sunscreen for acne-prone skin
Why it works
- Zinc oxide-based
- Calms redness and irritation
- Dermatologist-trusted in Korea
Best for: Acne-prone, rosacea-prone, sensitive
Finish: Natural matte
Note: Slight tone-up effect (minimal white cast compared to Western mineral sunscreens)
5. House of Hur Weightless Sun Fluid SPF50+ PA++++
Best sunscreen for extreme humidity
Why it works
- Watery fluid texture
- No stickiness even when sweating
- Doesn’t melt or slide off
Best for: Oily, acne-prone, humid climates
Finish: Natural
Perfect for: Travel, outdoor days, tropical weather
6. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
Best barrier-support sunscreen for acne-prone skin
Why it works
- Lightweight lotion texture
- Strengthens skin barrier (important for acne treatments)
- No pore congestion when used correctly
Best for: Combination-oily, acne-prone using actives
Finish: Natural glow
Tip: Use a thin layer in humid weather
How to Apply Sunscreen Without Causing Breakouts
- Apply two thin layers, not one thick layer
- Let skincare fully absorb before sunscreen
- Use ½ teaspoon for face + neck
- Reapply using light tapping, not rubbing
Breakouts often come from over-application in one layer, not the formula itself.
Quick Comparison Table
|
Sunscreen |
Finish |
Best For |
|
Numbuzin No.1 |
Natural |
Oily + sensitive |
|
Skin1004 |
Fresh |
Acne inflammation |
|
Purito Soft Touch |
Matte |
Very oily |
|
Dr. G Mild Up |
Matte |
Mineral lovers |
|
House of Hur |
Natural |
Extreme humidity |
|
Beauty of Joseon |
Natural glow |
Barrier repair |
Final Thoughts
If you struggle with oily, acne-prone skin in humid weather, Korean sunscreens offer what most Western sunscreens don’t:
high UVA protection + weightless textures + skin-calming benefits.
For most people, Numbuzin No.1 or Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica will be the safest starting point. If you prefer mineral sunscreens, Dr. G Green Mild Up Sun remains a gold standard in Korea.