UV filters (sunscreen) in skincare — what they do
UV filters absorb or reflect UV. Korea approves several elegant next-generation filters not yet available in the US, a key reason Korean sunscreens feel so light.
16 uv filters (sunscreen) in the K-beauty INCI decoder
- Avobenzone — A key filter that helps absorb UVA rays to support protection against sun-related aging.
- Ensulizole — A water-soluble UVB filter that helps absorb sunburn rays while keeping textures light.
- Homosalate — An oil-soluble filter that helps absorb UVB rays to support protection from sunburn.
- Mexoryl SX — A water-soluble filter that helps absorb shorter UVA rays to support defense against sun damage.
- Mexoryl XL — A photostable filter that helps absorb both UVA and UVB rays for lasting protection.
- Octinoxate — A widely used filter that helps absorb UVB rays to support the skin's defense against sunburn.
- Octisalate — A gentle filter that helps absorb UVB rays and supports a smooth, water-resistant sunscreen feel.
- Octocrylene — A filter that helps absorb UV light and supports the stability of other sunscreen ingredients.
- Oxybenzone — A chemical filter that helps absorb UV light to support broad protection against sun exposure; can sensitize some skin and is restricted in some markets.
- Tinosorb M — A hybrid filter that both absorbs and scatters UV light to support broad-spectrum sun protection.
- Tinosorb S — A modern broad-spectrum filter that helps absorb both UVA and UVB rays for stable sun protection.
- Titanium Dioxide — A mineral filter that reflects and scatters UV light to help protect skin from sun exposure.
- Uvasorb HEB — A photostable UVB filter that helps absorb sunburn rays to support all-day protection.
- Uvinul A Plus — A photostable filter that helps absorb UVA rays to support defense against sun-induced aging.
- Uvinul T 150 — A highly efficient UVB filter that helps absorb sunburn-causing rays at low concentrations.
- Zinc Oxide — A mineral filter that sits on skin and helps shield it from a broad range of UV rays while gently soothing.
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Why is Korean sunscreen considered better?
Korean sunscreens are often praised for elegant, lightweight textures that feel pleasant enough to wear daily, which encourages consistent use. They frequently use newer filters approved in Korea but not the US. Preferences are partly cosmetic; effectiveness depends on applying enough and reapplying regardless of brand.
Why is Korean sunscreen better?
Because Korea approves modern UV filters — Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S and M among them — that give strong UVA protection in light, non-greasy textures. Some markets, notably the US, have not approved them.
✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-08.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.