UV filters (sunscreen) in skincare — what they do
⚡ Quick answer: 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.
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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General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.