Sunscreen has become a must-have in every skincare routine, and many of the best Korean sunscreen products are leading the way. These ultra-light, skin-loving formulas are all over social media and flying off store shelves.
However, in recent years, global sellers of Korean sunscreens have faced a challenge with FDA approval.
While FDA approval isn’t the sole indicator of a sunscreen’s effectiveness, sellers in the U.S. and other FDA-regulated markets may find that offering FDA-approved options helps streamline customs clearance and build consumer trust.
Here are some helpful information regarding Korean sunscreens, FDA, and recommendations for the best FDA-approved Korean sunscreens to stock.
Why Everyone’s Obsessed With Korean Sunscreens
Like many other Korean beauty products, the best Korean sunscreen products have a serious fan base — and it’s easy to see why!
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- Lightweight Formulas: Unlike thick, greasy sunscreens of the past, Korean sunscreens absorb quickly and leave no white cast. This makes them perfect for everyday use under makeup or on their own.
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- Innovative Ingredients: Korean brands are known for blending sun protection with other skincare benefits. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid hydrate the skin, Centella Asiatica calms sensitive skin, and niacinamide brightens the skin for a natural glow.
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Sunscreens are a must for morning skincare routines. Korean sunscreens offer high-level protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Why Are Some Sunscreens Not FDA Approved?
For anyone who has wondered, “Is this sunscreen FDA-approved?” Let’s break it down.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a U.S. government organization that regulates food, drugs, and other products that could impact public health. Most skincare products fall under cosmetic products, which don’t require FDA approval before they’re marketed.
However, sunscreen is a different matter because it advertises a specific Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which measures how well the product can protect your skin from UV rays. This makes it classified as a drug, requiring FDA approval as “OTC Registered.”
This is where it gets tricky. The FDA hasn’t approved any new UV filters since the late 1990s. While countries like South Korea, Japan, and those in Europe have organizations similar to the FDA that have approved newer sunscreen ingredients, the U.S. is still working with an outdated system.
Modern ingredients such as Uvinul A Plus or Tinosorb S – commonly used in Korean sunscreens – are not yet FDA-approved. This isn’t because they’re unsafe but because reviewing can take a long time.
Due to this, many Korean sunscreens are not officially FDA-approved, even if they are considered safe and effective in other parts of the world.
Does That Mean Korean Sunscreens Are Not Safe?
Absolutely not! Korean sunscreens are considered safe and widely used by millions of people worldwide. They undergo testing to meet South Korea’s and the EU’s cosmetic regulations – which are known to be some of the strictest in the world – and are still recommended by dermatologists and other skincare professionals.
Also, South Korea requires local brands to have their sunscreen products tested to be both safe and effective before they can be sold. One key advantage of stocking FDA or OTC-registered products is the smoother and faster processing through customs clearance.
Korean Brands With FDA-Approved Sunscreen
It’s uncertain when the FDA will complete its review. However, if you would like to cater to customers who prefer FDA-approved Korean sunscreen products, here are some brands to stock up on:
d’Alba
Luxury skincare meets advanced sun protection in d’Alba’s sunscreen collection. The brand’s signature ingredient is White Truffle Extract, taken from a rare delicacy that could only be found in Piedmont, Italy. Combined with Tocopherol (Vitamin E), its products provide “Trufferol,” a self-invented substance rich in Vitamins, Amino Acids, Minerals, and Antioxidants.
Waterfull Tone-Up Sun Cream
Hailed as Korea’s #1 best-selling facial sunscreen, many careful customers will appreciate that it is an OTC-registered, FDA-approved sunscreen. This hybrid sunscreen combines the best of mineral and chemical ingredients, providing plenty of protection against UVA and UVB rays. It leaves no white cast and has a pink tone that serves as a flattering makeup base.
Waterfull Mild Sun Cream
Specially formulated for sensitive skin, this mineral sunscreen uses Centella Asiatica Extract and Panthenol to soothe and calm irritation. It provides reliable SPF protection while moisturizing and strengthening the skin barrier with gentle physical Mineral Filters. Free from fragrance and harsh additives, it’s a gentle yet effective daily sunscreen.
Waterfull Essence Sun Cream
A global bestseller, this essence-type sunscreen features d’Alba’s classic Trufferol combination to hydrate and nourish skin. Its lightweight, watery texture glides on smoothly, offering a dewy, fresh finish. Best for dry or dehydrated skin, it works well on its own or can be used for any pre-makeup skincare routine.
Air Fit Fresh Sun Stick
For customers who want to apply sunscreen throughout the day, this is the most portable, compact, and convenient option. The mess-free sun stick has an incredibly lightweight formula and contains Ice Plant Extract to help cool and soothe skin while keeping it protected.
Neogen
Neogen uses a holistic approach to its products, combining science-backed skincare with sunscreen innovation. They combine natural botanical ingredients with cutting-edge technology to create sunscreens that not only shield skin from the sun but also nourish and improve its health over time.
Day Light Protection Airy Sunscreen
Users rave about this sunscreen’s feather-light formulas that feel barely there. Aside from its SPF 50 broad spectrum protection, its ingredients include 20 plant extracts – including hydrating Rose Extract and soothing Chia Seed Extract – to nourish the skin while keeping it shielded against the harsh effects of sunlight exposure. Ideal for oily and combination skin, it leaves a matte yet hydrated finish without clogging pores.
Abib
Abib gets its name from “the first month,” symbolizing their goal to achieve perfection through the very first step of the beauty cycle. This means focusing on clean ingredients and skin barrier health to return skin to its prime, natural complexion. Abib products are free from unnecessary additives, making them a favorite among clean beauty fans.
Quick Sunstick Protection Bar
A top-selling, portable sun stick that provides powerful SPF protection with a silky-smooth application. Users get a glowy, non-sticky finish. Enriched with Acacia Peptides, Ceramides, Cucumber, and Centella Extract, it soothes and strengthens the skin barrier. Its shape and convenient application make it perfect for users who want on-the-go touch-ups throughout the day.
Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar
For a lightweight and reef-safe sunstick, this is the more suitable Abib sunscreen. It offers up to 80 minutes of water resistance, perfect for outdoor water activities. Ingredients like Sunflower Seed Oil and Camellia Seed Oil soothe and hydrate the skin, making it perfect for sensitive skin types.
Etude
Etude combines fun, affordability, and functionality in its FDA-approved skincare products. Known for its cute and viral packaging and skin-friendly formulations, it’s a popular brand among younger customers looking for budget-friendly options that don’t skimp on quality.
Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk
A popular mineral sunscreen that only uses FDA-approved Zinc Oxide to create an effective barrier against UV rays. Its formula creates a soft finish free of oiliness and stickiness while brightening the skin. Ingredients like Sunflower Seed Oil, Baobab Seed Oil, and Aloe Vera Leaf Extract help calm and moisturize skin. Users love its mild formula and how it leaves a comfortable, lightweight finish.
IsNtree
IsNtree creates products that are purely eco-friendly and non-toxic. Its products contain staple natural ingredients and are free of any Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates. They offer mineral and chemical sunscreens that have undergone rigorous testing and FDA-approved ingredients. They are a popular brand for users who prefer pure and organic products.
Yam Root Milk Tone Up Sun Cream
Perfect for the viral Clean Girl Aesthetic or No-Makeup Look, this tone-up cream doubles as a tinted sunscreen and provides natural coverage while providing SPF 50+ protection. Infused with Yam Root Extract and Niacinamide, it hydrates deeply while brightening skin tone. It can be used on its own for a soft and natural look or as a primer under makeup.
Hyaluronic Acid Daily Sun Gel
This ultra-hydrating sunscreen contains eight types of Hyaluronic Acid, which draws and retains water for deep and lasting moisture. Its lightweight gel texture and quick absorption make it ideal for dehydrated or sensitive skin.
Onion Newpair Sunscreen
Formulated with Red Onion Extract, this sunscreen helps control sebum production. Together with its soothing, non-comedogenic formula, it’s a popular choice for those with oily skin. It also helps brighten the skin tone, perfect for achieving a clear and even complexion.
Herbloom
Herbloom is an emerging brand focused on nature, wellness, and health. Their products are best known for vegan, cruelty-free skincare solutions. Their sunscreens are plant-based, gentle, and suitable for all skin types, particularly sensitive skin.
Calming Days Vegan Sunscreen
This sunscreen’s formula features Potato Extract, Aloe Leaf Juice, and Centella Extract to soothe and calm the skin while providing SPF 50+ PA++++ protection. It’s lightweight, non-sticky, and absorbs quickly, making it ideal for daily use. This sunscreen is perfect for eco-conscious customers looking for effective sun protection.
Source the Best Korean Sunscreen Products for Your Store at UMMA
Korean sunscreens are in high demand, and 2025 is the perfect time to bring them to your store. While FDA approval may still be pending for some ingredients, these sunscreens are globally trusted, OTC registered, and beloved – a safe choice to add to your K-Beauty catalog.
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