Korean sunscreens are leading the way in sun protection with their innovative use of new generation UV filters. These filters are designed to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB radiation, which can cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Unlike traditional UV filters, which can break down over time and lose their effectiveness, new generation UV filters are more stable and provide longer-lasting protection. They also have a lighter texture and are less likely to leave a white cast on the skin, making them more appealing to consumers. In this blog article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of new generation of UV filters commonly found in Korean sunscreens and how they help protect the skin from UV radiation.

Tinosorb S

INCI: Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine

Tinosorb S, also known as Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, is an oil-soluble chemical UV filter that was developed by the Swiss company, BASF. It is part of the newer generation of UV filters that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays (280-400nm), has a peak protection at about 310 and 345nnm and high SPF. Unlike older generation UV filters such as Avobenzone, Tinosorb S is very photo-stable, meaning it does not degrade or break down easily when exposed to sunlight and is not readily absorbed into the skin. This makes it effective in protecting the skin from UV damage. Tinosorb S has been approved by regulatory bodies in Europe, Canada, Australia and Asia but, unfortunately, has not been approved by the US FDA.

Tinosorb S commonly found in Korean sunscreens include: Dr.Ceuracle Hyal Reyouth Moist Sun, Dr.Ceuracle Cica Regen Vegan Sun, Hamel Vegan Aqua Glow Sun Serum, Dr.Ceuracle Pro-Balance Biotics Clear Up Sun

Tinosorb M

INCI: Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol

Tinosorb M, which is often seen with Tinosorb S is a hybrid chemical UV filter that combines both chemical and physical filters to provide a broad spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB at 280-400nm and has a peak protection of 305nm and 360nm. One of the key features of this UV filter is its ability to combine and work with other filters while at the same time being able to stabilize other less photostable sunscreen filters. Since Tinosorb M is a hybrid, it is neither water nor oil soluble, but a suspension of particles. This UV filter is not easily absorbed into the skin. Since it does contain physical particles, Tinosorb M does leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones. Similarly to Tinosorb S, this hybrid UV filter is currently approved in Europe, Asia and Australia but has not cleared the US FDA.

Tinosorb M commonly found in Korean sunscreens include: Hamel Vegan Relief Water Essence Sun Cream, Mary & May Cica Soothing Sun Cream

Tinosorb A2B

INCI: Tris-Biphenyl Triazine

The third and newest addition of Tinosorb, Tinosorb A2B is a unique filter that provides broad-spectrum coverage to both UVB and UVA rays, with an extra protection against UVA2 rays which have the wavelength of 320nm to 340 nm. This new generation of micronized UV filter closes the gap between UVA and UVB absorbers, enabling a full protection across the entire spectrum of solar UV radiation. It is highly photostable and has a high SPF protection at a minimal concentration. Unlike traditional UV filters, Tinosorb A2B does not break down or degrade over time, ensuring that it provides adequate protection during prolonged sun exposure. Tinosorb A2B has a silky smooth texture and similarly to Tinosorb M, it does leave a slight white cast due to its combined physical and chemical filter properties. This filter is currently approved in Europe, Australia and Asia, but has yet to be approved by the US FDA.

Uvinul T 150

INCI: Ethylhexyl Triazone

Ethylhexyl Triazone is a UVB filter that is highly effective and is the most photostable UVB filter with a protection range of 280-329nm and a peak protection of 314nm. This sunscreen filter is odourless and can be easily incorporated into fragrance-free formulations. It is highly absorptive of UV rays and therefore only requires a small concentration to achieve high SPF protection. It also has a good affinity for keratin in the skin due to the nature of the electrical charges of the molecule. This UV filter has yet to be approved by the US FDA.

Uvinul A Plus

INCI: Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate

This highly photostable chemical UV filter offers strong protection against long UVA range between 320-400nm and has a peak protection at 354nm. It is also highly efficient at low concentration and can be used up to a concentration of 10%. Because of its hydrophobic nature and solubility in oil, this UV filter is particularly suitable to use in water-repellent and water-resistant formulations. Unfortunately, Uvinul A Plus has not been approved in the US and Canada.

In conclusion, Korean sunscreens offer a range of UV filters that are both effective and gentle on the skin. From the innovative Tinosorb filters, to the widely used Uvinul filters, these sunscreen ingredients provide excellent protection against harmful UV rays, while minimizing the risk of skin irritation and other adverse effects. It's important to choose a sunscreen with a high SPF and broad-spectrum protection to ensure adequate protection against both UVA and UVB rays. By incorporating Korean sunscreens into your daily skincare routine, you can enjoy the benefits of advanced UV protection, while also nourishing and enhancing the health of your skin. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin, so don't skimp on the sunscreen!