When we talk about preparative cosmetics in general, one of the most important items is certainly protection from harmful solar radiation, i.e. SPF (sun protection factor) products. We all know that we should use them daily, because in addition to serving as immediate protection and the best prevention for future skin problems, they allow the skin to regenerate and recover, and through such daily protection we can bring it to a much better condition. Even without using active cards!
And that's exactly where Korean cosmetics set trends - they created extremely reliable SPF products that offer very high protection with an elegant texture and (mostly) additional ingredients that act synergistically to protect the skin from UV radiation. Super moisturizers such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and panthenol are combined with natural ingredients such as rice extract, Centella Asiatica (tiger grass) and aloe vera, where we then get a completely rounded product that, in addition to the primary function of protection, hydrates the skin, renews it and it soothes. For the last year and a half, I have been intensively testing their SPFs and I have to single out the ones that impressed me the most.
1. Beauty Of Joseon - Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50 is definitely in the first place - at this point I would dare to say a global phenomenon, and when you try it you will see why. In addition to very high protection, the backbone of the formulation consists of as much as 30% rice extract and fermented grains, which, thanks to the wealth of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, restore, soothe and provide hydration. Glycerin and niacinamide additionally moisturize the skin, prevent dehydration during intense exposure to the sun, and the probiotic complex that balances the skin's microbiome and strengthens the skin barrier is also interesting. And that's not the end - it comes with the texture of a light cream, without perfume and oil, it does not leave a white mark, and it is absorbed to a neutral finish.
2. A slightly more specific texture is provided by COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 – reliable protection in the form of a nourishing cream, containing robust amounts of aloe vera extract, which cancels out the effects of sun exposure such as accompanying redness and dry skin. Although it is for all skin types, dry to normal skin will especially enjoy it, while mixed to oily skin can use it on its own, as a 2in1 product (SPF + moisturizer).
3. The latest addition to my lineup is Thank You Farmer – Sun Project: Light Sun Essence SPF 50 which comes with an "airy touch" texture that leans towards fluid, leaving a semi-matte finish. Ideal for mixed to oily skin, in addition to very high protection, it is also enriched with natural extracts such as bamboo water, aloe vera and soy lipids that maintain optimal skin moisture, prevent dehydration that is often associated with SPF products, and can be easily reapplied during the day. The interesting thing is that it comes in a 120 ml package, which is truly rare for such products.
There really is no excuse for not using protective products anymore – there are options for every skin type, primarily with textures in mind. They are practical and elegant, comfortable and do not leave a white mark. Nourishing creams, fluids or something in between, you can find it all in the three SPF mentioned above, it's important just to choose one and enjoy a carefree stay in the sun.
