If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you probably know how tricky it can be to find a sunscreen that doesn’t clog pores, leave a greasy finish, or cause breakouts. The good news? Korean sunscreens have become world-renowned for their advanced formulations, lightweight textures, and skin-friendly ingredients—especially when it comes to oily skin types.
Whether you’re looking for a mattifying finish, sebum control, or a non-comedogenic SPF that sits well under makeup, Korea’s 2025 sunscreen lineup has something for you. This guide covers the top Korean sunscreens for oily skin as recommended by dermatologists and skincare experts. It also explains what to look for in a sunscreen if you have oily skin, plus how to apply it correctly for maximum protection and minimal shine.
What Oily Skin Needs in a Sunscreen
Oily skin types have a few specific needs when it comes to SPF:
Oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas to prevent clogged pores
Matte or semi-matte finishes that control shine throughout the day
Lightweight, fast-absorbing textures that don’t feel heavy on the skin
No white cast if possible, especially for deeper skin tones
Fragrance-free or low-irritant options if skin is sensitive or acne-prone
Korean sunscreens often combine chemical and physical UV filters, and many brands also infuse their SPF products with soothing ingredients like centella asiatica, green tea, and niacinamide, which are perfect for calming excess oil and inflammation.
Top Korean Sunscreens for Oily Skin (2025 Edition)
Here are dermatologist-recommended picks for 2025, based on formulation, effectiveness, and performance on oily skin.
1. Beauty of Joseon – Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
Texture: Lightweight cream-gel
Finish: Natural to semi-matte
Why it works: Contains rice extract and fermented ingredients that help regulate oil while soothing the skin. Despite its creamy texture, it doesn’t clog pores and layers beautifully under makeup.
Best for: Combination to oily skin types that want hydration without greasiness
This sunscreen has become a cult favorite globally and continues to rank as one of the best all-around options for oily skin.
2. Isntree – Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++
Texture: Watery gel
Finish: Dewy but breathable
Why it works: Though it leaves a slightly dewy finish, its weightless texture and 8 types of hyaluronic acid help hydrate without triggering excess sebum. Perfect if your skin is oily but also dehydrated.
Best for: Oily yet dehydrated skin or people living in dry climates
It also includes niacinamide and ceramides to balance oil production and repair the skin barrier.
3. Etude – SoonJung x Director’s Moisture Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
Texture: Lotion-like cream
Finish: Satin-matte
Why it works: Free from fragrance, alcohol, and known irritants, this sunscreen is part of Etude’s “SoonJung” line for sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly and helps reduce skin stress, perfect for acne-prone oily types.
Best for: Sensitive, reactive oily skin
A safe bet for those who struggle with irritation and clogged pores from most SPFs.
4. Round Lab – Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
Texture: Lightweight lotion
Finish: Natural to matte
Why it works: Contains birch sap and panthenol, which balance oil and hydration without leaving a sticky residue. This sunscreen has won multiple beauty awards in Korea and is a dermatologist favorite.
Best for: Daily use for oily skin in humid weather
This sunscreen is also reef-safe and fragrance-free, making it a sustainable and skin-friendly choice.
5. Skin1004 – Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Light SPF30 PA++++
Texture: Ultra-light cream
Finish: Matte
Why it works: Ideal for super oily and acne-prone skin. It uses centella asiatica to calm inflammation and zinc oxide for physical sun protection. Though SPF30 may seem low, it’s perfect for indoor-heavy days or layering under stronger SPF.
Best for: Extremely oily or acneic skin looking for anti-inflammatory ingredients
Dermatologists recommend this for people undergoing acne treatment who still want gentle sun protection.
6. Dr. G – Green Mild Up Sun Plus SPF50+ PA++++
Texture: Silky cream
Finish: Matte
Why it works: Uses mineral UV filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) and is designed for sensitive, oily skin. It calms redness and gives a non-sticky finish that helps control oil throughout the day.
Best for: Reactive, oily, redness-prone skin types
This sunscreen is also great for men with oily skin and sensitive shaving areas.
What Ingredients to Look for (and Avoid)
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, pay attention to the ingredient list of any sunscreen.
Look for:
Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: Physical UV filters with anti-inflammatory benefits
Niacinamide: Regulates sebum and brightens tone
Centella asiatica: Soothes irritation and supports the skin barrier
Green tea extract: Antioxidant-rich and oil balancing
Hyaluronic acid: Lightweight hydration without greasiness
Avoid (if possible):
Heavy oils (e.g., mineral oil, coconut oil)
Fragrance and essential oils, especially if you’re acne-prone
Alcohol denat. in large amounts—it can strip your skin and cause rebound oiliness
Occlusive ingredients that can block pores under humid conditions
Always patch test a new sunscreen on your neck or jawline before applying it all over your face.
Application Tips for Oily Skin
Even the best sunscreen won’t help if applied incorrectly. Here’s how to get the most out of your SPF:
Use the right amount: 2 finger lengths (index + middle) for face and neck
Apply on clean, moisturized skin: Don’t skip moisturizer—even oily skin needs balance
Reapply every 2–3 hours: Especially if you’re outdoors or in direct sunlight
Use blotting paper, not powder, for mid-day shine—powder can cake up over sunscreen
Use sunscreen as your last skincare step, before makeup
If you wear makeup, consider using a sunscreen mist or cushion-type sunscreen for reapplication.
Korean Sunscreens Offer Advanced Protection Without the Grease
Finding the right sunscreen for oily skin doesn’t have to be a challenge, especially with the latest innovations coming from Korea. In 2025, more Korean brands are formulating sunscreens with oily, acne-prone skin in mind—meaning you can protect your skin from UV damage without feeling greasy or breaking out.
From lightweight gels to mattifying creams packed with soothing botanicals, Korean sunscreens offer some of the best solutions on the global skincare market. Whichever one you choose, the key is consistent daily use and finding the texture and ingredients your skin loves. If you haven’t tried one of these dermatologist-approved picks yet, your next holy grail SPF might just be waiting in the K-beauty aisle.