The Power of Protection: Why Sunscreen is Your Daily K-Beauty Essential

In Korea, sunscreen is non-negotiable, a year-round habit regardless of the weather. Here in the UK, with our often-overcast skies, it’s easy to think we can skip it. But UVA rays, which cause premature ageing, are present all year, even on cloudy days. Korean sunscreens have revolutionised the SPF market, moving away from thick, chalky formulas to light, elegant textures that you'll actually want to wear.

Chemical vs. Physical Filters. Sunscreens use either physical or chemical filters to protect your skin. Physical sunscreens (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) create a physical barrier to block UV rays. They can sometimes leave a white cast. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. Korean formulas often use a blend of both and innovative filters to achieve a sheer, non-greasy finish.

Understanding PA+ Rating. While most UK sunscreens focus on the SPF number (which indicates protection against UVB rays that cause sunburn), Korean sunscreens also use a PA+ rating to measure UVA protection. The more plus signs, the higher the protection. We recommend a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and PA+++.