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Are Korean Sunscreens Not Recommended?

October 04, 2022

Are Korean Sunscreens Not Recommended?

Are Korean Sunscreens Not Recommended?

On this episode of the Korean Beauty Show podcast, Host Lauren answers whether Korean sunscreens are “recommended,” why they can’t be sold in Australia, why many aren’t allowed in the US, and what’s trending in skincare this autumn. Plus global anti-aging insights.

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K-Beauty
SPF Regulations

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K-Beauty News Headlines

Exfoliation Is a Key Trend This Autumn in Korea

  • Fall’s wide temperature swings and rising pollution from ~October can disrupt the skin barrier and trigger irritation.
  • Brands are leaning into gentle, sensitive-skin-friendly exfoliation.
  • Expect more AHAs, BHAs and PHAs in lotions, bubble pads, washes, toners and masks.
  • Timely dead-skin removal helps skin look hydrated, protected and less congested.
Key Korean Beauty Trends for Fall

Aging Care Tops Global Beauty Priorities

Different markets frame the same concern differently:

  • China: “Early anti-aging” (Gen Z buying eye care).
  • Japan: “Skin balance” to manage signs long-term.
  • USA: “Anti-stress aging” to repair barrier fatigue.
  • France: Classic “anti-aging” prevention.
  • Thailand: “Slow aging”—UV and heat management.
  • Kazakhstan: “Home-care anti-aging”—sheet masks and patches.

Source: Son Sung Min, “Main Trend Keyword for Each Country 2021-22”.

Are Korean Sunscreens Not Recommended

“Clean Beauty” Search Volumes Keep Rising

  • Growing interest in “clean beauty,” “circular economy,” “ethical,” and “biodegradable.”
  • Signals concern for waste, up-cycling and biodiversity.
  • In Korea, EWG ratings and on-pack callouts appeal to eco-minded consumers.

Question of the Week: Are Korean Sunscreens Not Recommended?

They aren’t “not recommended,” but Korea’s regulations differ. SPF 50+ claims and labeling aren’t harmonized with Australia or the US.

US: Only FDA-approved UV filters are permitted.

Australia: Most Korean sunscreens aren’t made in TGA-approved facilities, a local requirement, so they can’t be sold as sunscreens here.

Most Korean sunscreens are also not water-resistant, making them unsuitable for swimming, heavy sweating or outdoor workouts.

Watch a deeper dive on why Korean sunscreens can’t be sold in Australia. Brands, stores, journalists and Australian influencers also cannot market them to you as “sunscreen,” nor provide paid or incentivized testimonials.

Quick check: Look for an AUST-L number on the pack to confirm suitability for Australia.

Need the nitty-gritty for teams? See our Cosmetic vs Therapeutic Claims Guide.

Are Korean Sunscreens Not Recommended

New Korean Skincare Product Releases

Etude House Moistfull Collagen Cream

  • Upgraded bouncy, dewy texture (75ml) for hydrated, plump-looking skin.
  • Allergen-fragrance-free update with smoother glide.
  • Now over 65% collagen; great for oily/combination types.

Make P:rem Watery Gel Cream

  • pH-balanced relief (pH 5.5) to soothe and support the barrier.
  • Ideal for dehydrated or oil-prone skin types.

New K-Beauty Reviews on STYLE STORY

Nine Less Magic Nine Fill Up Silk Hair Treatment

  • Tester’s Club feedback:
  • "I use it as a conditioner—great slip, quick routine, not greasy."

Nine Less Daily Intense Nourishing Hair Essence (120ml)

  • "Two pumps on the ends before blow-drying = glossy, non-greasy finish."

Review for the Podcast

“It’s more than Skin Routine education!” by Caucm on July 7, 2022

“Every week I look forward to Lauren’s show—like school, I keep pen and paper for notes. I love the local Korean news and the way trends are explained with pros and cons.”

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  • Lauren Lee, Host of the Korean Beauty Show podcast 

'During fall in Korea there's a wide variance in daily temperatures which can easily break the skin's balance, making it more prone to irritation. Pollution also starts getting worse around October"

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