Sunscreen is non-negotiable, but finding the perfect formula for your skin type can sometimes be a challenge. To help you navigate the world of SPF, I’ve been putting several popular Japanese and Korean sunscreens to the test. Here’s what I found.

The picks at a glance

SunscreenScoreBest for
Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence10/10All skin types, everyday use
Nivea Sun Super Water Gel10/10All skin types, everyday use
Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV9/10Normal to dry skin
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel8.5/10Sensitive skin, dry skin
Kumano Cosme Reihaku Hatomugi UV Milky Gel8/10Body, dry skin

Two TOCOBO sunscreens are covered in their own reviews further down — they needed more room than a roundup entry allows.

Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence — 10/10

A cult favorite for a reason! This essence strikes the perfect balance — hydrating without greasiness, and no stinging eyes. My top pick!

Best for: all skin types, everyday use.

Nivea Sun Super Water Gel — 10/10

Another very hydrating formula! This gel absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue. Plus, it’s gentle on the eyes.

Best for: all skin types, everyday use.

Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV — 9/10

This gel lives up to its name, leaving skin dewy, luminous and hydrated. Just wish the tiny tube lasted longer! If Canmake ever releases a larger size of this one, it would get a perfect 10 from me.

Best for: normal to dry skin types.

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel — 8.5/10

Those with sensitive or dry skin will love this one! This lightweight gel hydrates deeply thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid. No irritation or stinging eyes either!

Best for: sensitive skin, dry skin types.

Kumano Cosme Reihaku Hatomugi UV Milky Gel — 8/10

This one has become my favorite body sunscreen for multiple reasons. It comes in a huge pump bottle, making it a really budget-friendly option and is ultra moisturizing too! Unfortunately it stings my eyes really badly so it’s strictly a body sunscreen for me.

Best for: body, dry skin types.

Also tested: the TOCOBO sunscreens

TOCOBO gets its own coverage because the range splits neatly by what you need it for:

If your main concern is redness and reactivity rather than finish, my Korean soothing gels comparison and Dr. Jart+ Cicapair review are the better starting points.

What’s your go-to summer sunscreen? Let me know over on Instagram.

Where to buy

Most of these can be found on Yesstyle! Feel free to use my discount code COZY1234 for an additional 5% off alongside the current discount. If this roundup was useful, shopping via my affiliate link is much appreciated: https://ystyle.co/Vrad

  • Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence: YesStyle
  • Nivea Sun Super Water Gel: Stylevana
  • Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV: YesStyle
  • Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel: YesStyle
  • Kumano Cosme Reihaku Hatomugi UV Milky Gel: YesStyle

More skincare and beauty discount codes can be found here!

Feel free to check out more beauty content on my Instagram @cozycritique and TikTok @cozycritique