Firstly, what is UV radiation? Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that comes mainly from the sun, though it can also be emitted by artificial sources like tanning beds and certain industrial equipment. It is invisible to the human eye and is highly harmful to the skin if proper precautions are not carried out, like using sunscreen.
How does UV radiation affect the skin?
There are many ways UV radiation can affect the skin, which is why it’s so important to ensure you’re properly protected.
Sunburn: Caused mainly by UVB exposure, sunburn is a visible reaction indicating skin damage.
DNA Damage: UVB rays can directly damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that may cause skin cancer. Long-term exposure, especially without protection, increases the risk of skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Eye Damage: Though not part of the skin, UV rays can also damage the eyes, contributing to cataracts and macular degeneration.
Premature Aging: UVA rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and age spots.
Immune Suppression: UV radiation can weaken the skin’s immune response, making it harder to detect and fight off early-stage skin cancers and infections.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
The main difference between UVA and UVB rays lies in their wavelength, depth of skin penetration, and the type of damage they cause. Both types are harmful, but in different ways. UVB is generally considered more immediately harmful, while UVA causes more long-term damage. This is why a broad-spectrum sunscreen (which protects against UVA and UVB) is essential.
We’ve laid out the key differences between the two below:
UVA Rays:
- Long wavelength of 320 – 400 nm (nanometers)
- Penetrates deep into the dermis (the second layer of the skin)
- Causes premature aging (wrinkles, sagging)
- Contributes to skin cancer over time
UVB Rays:
- Medium wavelength of 290 – 320 nm
- Penetrates the epidermis (outer layer)
- Primary cause of sunburn
- Major cause of most skin cancers and DNA damage
The best Korean sunscreens for the face
Luckily for you, we’ve got not one, not two, but three broad-spectrum sunscreens for you to choose from…
As a chemical sunscreen, the Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen absorbs ultraviolet rays and converts them to harmless heat energy while forming an ultra thin, hydrating, protective film on the skin. It has strong UVA and UVB protection, with reef-safe, advanced filters. It’s also fragrance-free, making it a great option for sensitive skin, and leaves no white cast.
With an airless pump to prevent oxidization, this Korean SPF is ultra-lightweight, with a smooth, semi-matte finish that’s non-sticky and non-greasy, making it perfect to use as a makeup primer. It’s packed with skincare ingredients, including an antioxidant-rich black rice oil infusion, soothing and moisturizing ceramides, and adenosine to improve skin texture. There’s also brightening niacinamide and rice bran oil to nourish. The result is a healthy glow with smooth, soft skin that’s shielded from the sun.
Simply apply as the last step of your skincare routine, using 2 finger lengths on the face and neck and massaging in until absorbed. Reapply every 2 hours, or sooner if you are swimming or sweating.
The clinical trial results
- We tested how well the product blocks UVA rays, and saw a result of λc = 371nm. This means the product provides broad-spectrum protection, covering a wide range of UVA rays.
Domestic results found that:
-
SPF: 57.4 ± 0.0 → Very high protection against UVB rays (which cause sunburn)
-
UVA Protection (UVAPF / PFA / PPD): 18.7 ± 2.3 → Strong protection against UVA rays (which cause aging)
And overseas results found that:
-
SPF: 63.2 ± 8.9 → Very high UVB protection
-
UVA Protection (UVAPF / PFA / PPD): 26.6 ± 4.5 → Very high UVA protection
We also discovered more benefits after 2 weeks use:
- There was a 19.373% improvement in skin hydration after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 18.15% improvement in skin water loss after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 19.98% improvement in skin texture after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 53.21% improvement in the soothing of damaged skin after exposure to UV rays
This is a gentle mineral sunscreen formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, offering effective broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Clinically tested for sensitive skin, it's safe for the entire family and reef-safe, making it a responsible choice for ocean-friendly suncare.
Enriched with antioxidant-rich black rice oil and brightening niacinamide, this sunscreen helps even out skin tone while soothing heartleaf extract and hydrating hyaluronic acid nourish and moisturize the skin. The lightweight, mild cream applies smoothly and leaves a soft, hydrated satin finish.
Apply two finger lengths as the final step in your skincare routine. Due to the zinc oxide, a slight white cast may appear initially, so blend thoroughly for the best results.
The clinical trial results
-
Only SPF was tested (no UVA testing was done), and we had a result of λc = 374nm. This means that even though UVA testing wasn’t performed, this critical wavelength indicates the product likely provides broad-spectrum protection.
Domestic results found that:
-
SPF: 50.5 ± 4.0 → Strong protection against UVB rays
-
UVA Protection (UVAPF / PFA / PPD): 16.0 ± 0.0 → Good UVA protection
And overseas results found that:
-
SPF: 71.5 ± 9.9 → Very high UVB protection
-
UVA Protection (UVAPF / PFA / PPD): 26.1 ± 5.3 → Very high UVA protection
And there’s more. After 2 weeks, we found that:
- There was a 11.987% improvement in skin hydration after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 15.657% improvement in skin water loss after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 15.910% improvement in skin texture after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 46.016% improvement in the soothing of damaged skin after exposure to UV rays
This sunstick offers powerful SPF and UVA protection while instantly cooling and mattifying the skin. Thanks to its innovative Air Fence technology, which infuses the formula with ultra-fine translucent powder, it delivers a smooth, non-greasy finish, even in humid conditions. The soft, powdery balm texture glides effortlessly onto the skin, making it ideal for touch-ups throughout the day.
Formulated with patented bamboo shot extract, the sunstick nourishes and hydrates without causing moisture loss, while ectoin and COSMOS-certified betaine lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier. Skin-brightening niacinamide and adenosine help smooth texture, reduce fine lines, and enhance elasticity for a healthy glow.
Simply twist the base to expose a small amount of product and swipe directly across the skin. Reapply every two hours for continuous protection.
The clinical trial results
Domestic results found that:
-
SPF: 60.3 ± 5.0 → Provides strong UVB protection (against sunburn)
-
UVA Protection (UVAPF / PFA / PPD): 21.7 ± 2.9 → Offers solid UVA protection (against skin aging and long-term damage)
While overseas results found that:
-
SPF: 78.1 ± 13.4 → Very high UVB protection
-
UVA Protection (UVAPF / PFA / PPD): 30.0 ± 6.9 → Excellent UVA protection, making it suitable for strong sun conditions or prolonged outdoor exposure
And we didn't stop there. After 2 weeks use, we discovered that:
-
There was a 15.923% improvement in skin hydration after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 18.385% improvement in skin water loss after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 17.070% improvement in skin texture after exposure to UV rays
- There was a 58.722% improvement in the soothing of damaged skin after exposure to UV rays
Final Thoughts
Using sunscreen daily is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from premature aging, sunburn, and the long-term risk of skin cancer. Whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or even indoors near windows, UV rays can still penetrate and cause damage. Consistent sunscreen use not only preserves your skin’s health and appearance but also strengthens your skincare routine by preventing issues before they start. It's a simple yet powerful step that should never be skipped.
What’s The Difference Between UVB And UVA Rays? This Is How To Ensure You’re Always Protected
Firstly, what is UV radiation? Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation that comes mainly from the sun, though it can also be emitted by artificial sources like tanning beds and certain industrial equipment. It is invisible to the human eye and is highly harmful to the skin if proper precautions are not carried out, like using sunscreen.
How does UV radiation affect the skin?
There are many ways UV radiation can affect the skin, which is why it’s so important to ensure you’re properly protected.
Sunburn: Caused mainly by UVB exposure, sunburn is a visible reaction indicating skin damage.
DNA Damage: UVB rays can directly damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that may cause skin cancer. Long-term exposure, especially without protection, increases the risk of skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Eye Damage: Though not part of the skin, UV rays can also damage the eyes, contributing to cataracts and macular degeneration.
Premature Aging: UVA rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and age spots.
Immune Suppression: UV radiation can weaken the skin’s immune response, making it harder to detect and fight off early-stage skin cancers and infections.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
The main difference between UVA and UVB rays lies in their wavelength, depth of skin penetration, and the type of damage they cause. Both types are harmful, but in different ways. UVB is generally considered more immediately harmful, while UVA causes more long-term damage. This is why a broad-spectrum sunscreen (which protects against UVA and UVB) is essential.
We’ve laid out the key differences between the two below:
UVA Rays:
UVB Rays:
The best Korean sunscreens for the face
Luckily for you, we’ve got not one, not two, but three broad-spectrum sunscreens for you to choose from…
Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
As a chemical sunscreen, the Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen absorbs ultraviolet rays and converts them to harmless heat energy while forming an ultra thin, hydrating, protective film on the skin. It has strong UVA and UVB protection, with reef-safe, advanced filters. It’s also fragrance-free, making it a great option for sensitive skin, and leaves no white cast.
With an airless pump to prevent oxidization, this Korean SPF is ultra-lightweight, with a smooth, semi-matte finish that’s non-sticky and non-greasy, making it perfect to use as a makeup primer. It’s packed with skincare ingredients, including an antioxidant-rich black rice oil infusion, soothing and moisturizing ceramides, and adenosine to improve skin texture. There’s also brightening niacinamide and rice bran oil to nourish. The result is a healthy glow with smooth, soft skin that’s shielded from the sun.
Simply apply as the last step of your skincare routine, using 2 finger lengths on the face and neck and massaging in until absorbed. Reapply every 2 hours, or sooner if you are swimming or sweating.
The clinical trial results
Domestic results found that:
And overseas results found that:
We also discovered more benefits after 2 weeks use:
Black Rice Pure Mineral Relief Daily Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
This is a gentle mineral sunscreen formulated with non-nano zinc oxide, offering effective broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Clinically tested for sensitive skin, it's safe for the entire family and reef-safe, making it a responsible choice for ocean-friendly suncare.
Enriched with antioxidant-rich black rice oil and brightening niacinamide, this sunscreen helps even out skin tone while soothing heartleaf extract and hydrating hyaluronic acid nourish and moisturize the skin. The lightweight, mild cream applies smoothly and leaves a soft, hydrated satin finish.
Apply two finger lengths as the final step in your skincare routine. Due to the zinc oxide, a slight white cast may appear initially, so blend thoroughly for the best results.
The clinical trial results
Domestic results found that:
And overseas results found that:
And there’s more. After 2 weeks, we found that:
Black Bamboo Daily Soothing Sun Shield SPF50+ PA++++
This sunstick offers powerful SPF and UVA protection while instantly cooling and mattifying the skin. Thanks to its innovative Air Fence technology, which infuses the formula with ultra-fine translucent powder, it delivers a smooth, non-greasy finish, even in humid conditions. The soft, powdery balm texture glides effortlessly onto the skin, making it ideal for touch-ups throughout the day.
Formulated with patented bamboo shot extract, the sunstick nourishes and hydrates without causing moisture loss, while ectoin and COSMOS-certified betaine lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier. Skin-brightening niacinamide and adenosine help smooth texture, reduce fine lines, and enhance elasticity for a healthy glow.
Simply twist the base to expose a small amount of product and swipe directly across the skin. Reapply every two hours for continuous protection.
The clinical trial results
Domestic results found that:
While overseas results found that:
And we didn't stop there. After 2 weeks use, we discovered that:
Final Thoughts
Using sunscreen daily is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin from premature aging, sunburn, and the long-term risk of skin cancer. Whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or even indoors near windows, UV rays can still penetrate and cause damage. Consistent sunscreen use not only preserves your skin’s health and appearance but also strengthens your skincare routine by preventing issues before they start. It's a simple yet powerful step that should never be skipped.