A lot of sunscreens in Nepal leave a grey or white layer on brown skin. They can also feel thick and sticky in the heat. Korean sunscreens are popular because most of them are light and blend in well.
This post covers three that we sell, how to use them, and how to avoid fake ones.
Why sunscreen matters here
Nepal sits high up. The higher you go, the stronger the UV light. Kathmandu is over 1,300 metres. Pokhara, Mustang and the hills get strong sun too. UV causes dark spots, tanning and early lines. If you want to fade dark spots, sunscreen is not optional. Without it, serums will not work well.
Three Korean sunscreens to look at
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+. It feels like a light cream. It does not leave a white cast on most Nepali skin tones. It is a good first Korean sunscreen.
Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+. This one is very watery, almost like a serum. People with oily skin like it because it does not feel heavy.
Purito SEOUL Soft Touch Sun SPF50. Softer and a bit creamier. Works well under makeup.
Check each product page for the current price and stock.
How much to use
Use about two finger lengths for your face and neck. Most people use far too little, and then they get much less protection than the label says. Put it on as the last step of your morning routine. Reapply every two to three hours if you are outside, for example on a hike or on a boat in Pokhara. If you sit indoors all day, one layer in the morning is fine, but sit away from windows if you can.
Sunscreen and oily skin
If your face gets shiny in summer, pick a watery or gel type. Wash your face well at night. A sunscreen can clog pores if you do not remove it fully, so use an oil cleanser first and a foam cleanser second.
Fake sunscreen is a real risk
A fake sunscreen may give no protection at all, and you will not know until your skin burns. Be careful if:
- The price is far lower than other shops
- The print is blurry or has spelling mistakes
- The batch code is missing or scratched
- The texture is very different from what reviews describe
For Cerine products, enter the batch code on our verify page.
FAQ
Can I use Korean sunscreen on my body?
Yes, but the tubes are small, so it is costly. Many people use it for the face and neck only.
Do I need sunscreen on rainy days?
Yes. UV passes through clouds.
Does SPF 50 mean I do not need to reapply?
No. It still wears off. Reapply when you are outside for a long time.
See all our sunscreens on the Korean skincare in Nepal page, or read our guide on sunscreens for Kathmandu's altitude.