All-day Airy Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
All-day Airy Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
Product Description
Product overview
Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ is a featherlight, vegan chemical sunscreen powered by next-generation Korean and European UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Polysilicone-15, Uvinul T 150, and Tinosorb S) for broad-spectrum protection without a white cast. The reformulated 2022 version was clinically verified at 3 independent Korean institutions to deliver true SPF 50+ PA++++ performance. Infused with 11 soothing botanical extracts including purslane, aloe, maca root, and Korean medicinal herbs, plus niacinamide, panthenol, allantoin, and adenosine to calm, hydrate, and brighten while you stay protected. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and essential oil-free for sensitive skin.
Next-Gen UV Filters
Combines four photostable filters (Uvinul A Plus, Polysilicone-15, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S) for full UVA + UVB defense.
Texture & feel
SENSORYNext-Gen UV Filters
Combines four photostable filters (Uvinul A Plus, Polysilicone-15, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S) for full UVA + UVB defense.
11 Botanical Soothers
Purslane, aloe, maca root, Korean elm, viola, and barberry calm sun-stressed skin and reduce post-UV redness.
Doubles as Moisturizer
Glycerin, panthenol, allantoin, and butylene glycol hydrate so you can skip your AM moisturizer if needed.
Zero White Cast
Transparent finish on all skin tones from fair to deep — no ashy residue, no flashback in photos.
Triple-Lab Verified
SPF/PA tested at Korea Dermatology Research Institute, Semyung University, and Cosmeservice.
Makeup-Friendly
Smooth, non-pilling base layer that works under foundations, BB creams, and powder finishes.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S, Uvinul T 150). These are not FDA-flagged but some dermatologists prefer mineral filters during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN.
Free from fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia. Suitable for fungal acne-prone skin.
Primary Skin Irritation Test for Sensitive Skin completed. Free from fragrance, essential oils, alcohol, and parabens.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, and niacinamide routines (sunscreen always goes last in AM).
Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, the two filters banned in Hawaii and Key West reef-protection laws.
Some users report mild eye sensitivity near the lash line. Apply cautiously around the eye area or use a separate eye SPF.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSDiethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus) ~3-5%Proven
A modern UVA filter with peak absorbance at 354 nm, designed to block long-wave UVA rays responsible for skin aging and pigmentation.
- Photostability: Highly stable, retains protection for hours under sun exposure
- Approval: EU, Asia, Australia (not FDA-approved in the US)
- Function: Blocks UVA I (340-400 nm) — the rays that penetrate deepest into skin
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S) ~2-4%Proven
Considered one of the best broad-spectrum filters available. Covers the entire UVB and UVA range (280-400 nm) with peak protection at 310 and 345 nm.
- Range: Full UVB + UVA I + UVA II coverage
- Stability: Extremely photostable; also stabilizes other UV filters
- Approval: EU, Asia, Australia
Ethylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150) ~3-5%Proven
One of the most effective UVB filters in modern sunscreen formulation, with the highest photostable absorption among available UVB filters.
- Peak protection: 314 nm (UVB sunburn range)
- Strength: Very oil-soluble, high SPF efficiency at low concentrations
- Approval: EU up to 5%, Asia, not FDA-approved
Polysilicone-15 (Parsol SLX) ~2-4%Proven
A silicone-based UVB filter with peak absorbance at 312 nm. Lightweight, non-shiny, and works synergistically with other filters to boost SPF.
- Sensorial: Light, silky, non-sticky feel
- Synergy: Stabilizes other UV filters in the formula
- Approval: EU up to 10%, widely used in K-beauty
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2-3%Proven
Multi-tasking active that brightens hyperpigmentation, strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces redness — a perfect partner for daily SPF.
- Barrier: Boosts ceramide production
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce dark spots
- Pairs well with SPF: Helps minimize UV-induced pigmentation
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1-2%Proven
A humectant and skin-soother that converts to vitamin B5 in the skin, supporting hydration and healing of UV-stressed skin.
- Hydration: Pulls moisture into skin layers
- Soothing: Reduces redness and supports barrier repair
Portulaca Oleracea (Purslane) Extract <1%Promising
Korean staple herb packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants — a calming powerhouse for sensitive and sun-stressed skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce post-UV redness
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals from sun exposure
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract <1%Proven
Centuries-old skin soother that hydrates, calms heat-irritated skin, and provides mild antioxidant support.
- Cooling effect: Reduces sensation of heat after sun exposure
- Hydration: Adds non-greasy moisture
Adenosine ~0.04%Proven
A cell-signaling compound approved by Korea's MFDS as an anti-wrinkle active. Smooths fine lines and supports collagen function.
- Korean MFDS approved: Listed anti-wrinkle functional ingredient
- Mechanism: Supports fibroblast activity and collagen production
Botanical Soothing Complex <1% combinedPromising
A blend of Korean medicinal herbs: Dioscorea (yam), Laminaria (kelp), Ulmus Davidiana (Korean elm), Lepidium Meyenii (maca root), Lycium Chinense (goji), Fragaria Chiloensis (strawberry), Berberis Vulgaris (barberry), and Morus Nigra (black mulberry).
- Antioxidant load: Multi-source flavonoids and polyphenols
- Tradition: Rooted in Hanbang (Korean herbal medicine)
43 ingredients
Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Polysilicone-15, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Cetearyl Olivate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Panthenol, Silica, Sorbitan Olivate, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Allantoin, Caprylyl Glycol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Adenosine, Cetearyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Butylene Glycol, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Viola Mandshurica Flower Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract, Fragaria Chiloensis Fruit Extract, Berberis Vulgaris Root Extract, Morus Nigra Fruit Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways the LAST step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup. Apply 15-20 minutes before sun exposure for full activation.
How to use
HOW TO USEComplete Your AM Skincare
Cleanse, tone, treat, and moisturize as usual. Wait until your moisturizer has absorbed before applying sunscreen.
Dispense Two Finger-Lengths
Squeeze out two full finger-lengths of product (~1.25ml or 1/4 teaspoon) for face and neck. This is the FDA/dermatologist-recommended amount for proper SPF protection.
Pat & Press into Skin
Dot evenly across forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and neck. Pat in gently rather than rubbing to avoid pilling. Don't forget ears and the back of the neck.
Wait 15-20 Minutes Before Sun
Allow the chemical filters to bond with skin before exposure. The dewy finish softens to a natural glow during this time.
Reapply Every 2-3 Hours
Use a sunscreen mist, stick, or pat-method reapplication over makeup throughout the day, especially after sweating or swimming.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, normal, or sensitive skin
- You hate the sticky/greasy feel of typical Western SPFs
- You want a fragrance-free, essential-oil-free formula
- You want a dewy, glowy finish under makeup
- You need a true broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) shield
- You prefer K-beauty filters not allowed under FDA regulations
- You have fungal acne and need ester/ferment-free SPF
- You travel and need a TSA-friendly 50ml tube
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin and dislike dewy finishes
- You prefer a flat matte/powder finish under makeup
- You're pregnant and your derm prefers mineral filters
- You react to chemical UV filters specifically
- You need a fully water-resistant beach/sport sunscreen
- You prefer mineral-only (zinc oxide) sunscreens
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESHydrating gel-cream texture doubles as a light moisturizer. Reviewers with dry skin say they can skip their AM moisturizer entirely.
Lightweight, glowy finish with no white cast. The ideal "barely-there" feel suits balanced skin year-round.
Works well in cooler months; some combo users report tackiness on the T-zone in summer. A light powder can mattify if needed.
The dewy finish may feel too rich for oily skin in hot/humid weather. Better suited for winter or air-conditioned environments.
Specifically formulated and tested for sensitive skin. Free from fragrance, essential oils, and alcohol — soothing botanicals reinforce comfort.
Fungal-acne safe (no esters, ferments, or polysorbates). Comedogenic rating of 1/5 — minimal pore-clogging risk.
Adenosine (Korean-approved anti-wrinkle active), niacinamide, and broad-spectrum UVA defense make it an anti-aging multitasker.
100% chemical filter formula leaves zero white cast or ashy residue on medium to deep complexions.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSComfortable, Dewy Finish
Skin instantly feels hydrated with a soft, glowy finish. No greasiness or white cast — looks like nothing on the skin.
94% noticedUV Defense Activated
SPF 50+ blocks 98% of UVB rays; PA++++ delivers the highest UVA protection (PFA ≥16). Reapply every 2-3 hours for sustained defense.
100% protectedCalmer, Less Reactive Skin
Soothing botanicals (purslane, aloe, allantoin, panthenol) help reduce post-sun redness and keep sensitive skin comfortable.
78% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Niacinamide combined with daily UVA blocking helps fade existing pigmentation and prevent new dark spots.
71% noticedSmoother Texture & Anti-Aging
Adenosine plus consistent UVA defense supports collagen and softens fine lines from sun damage. UV-induced aging accounts for ~80% of visible skin aging.
66% noticedRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Triple-lab verified true SPF 50+ PA++++ rating (no scandals)
- Modern broad-spectrum filters not available in US sunscreens
- Zero white cast, zero flashback in photos
- Truly fragrance-free and essential-oil-free
- 11 soothing botanicals for sensitive skin
- Doubles as a moisturizer for dry skin types
- Vegan, cruelty-free, reef-conscious formula
- Affordable Korean pricing (around $14-21 for 50ml)
- Hwahae 1st Half-Year Efficacy Award winner
Criticized
- Tacky finish on combination/oily skin in humid weather
- Slower absorption (~1 minute) than the original version
- Small 50ml tube doesn't last long with daily proper use
- Reports of mild eye-area sensitivity
- Not water-resistant for beach or sport activities
- Not officially FDA-cleared (Uvinul/Tinosorb filters)
- Dewy finish can shorten makeup wear time
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSame triple-filter system (Uvinul A Plus + Ethylhexyl Triazone + Tinosorb M) plus 30% rice extract. Slightly more hydrating, even better for dry skin. The viral TikTok favorite.
Korea's #1 bestseller for years. Birch sap replaces Klairs' purslane as the calming hero. Comparable filters, similar dewy finish, slightly thicker texture.
Centella-focused alternative for sensitive skin. Adds ceramides for barrier support. Lighter, more matte finish than Klairs — better for combination skin.
Aloe-based cooling sunscreen. Lower PA rating (+++ vs ++++) and uses different filter system. More hydrating but slightly heavier feel.
Watery gel texture is more refreshing and lighter. 8 types of hyaluronic acid for hydration. Great alternative if Klairs feels too creamy for you.
Japanese cult classic. Different filter system (Uvinul A Plus + others). Watery, fast-absorbing, but with mild fragrance. Cheapest comparable J-beauty option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEKlairs All-day Airy Sunscreen
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life: 30 months from manufacture date.
Store below 25°C (77°F) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving in hot cars — heat degrades chemical UV filters.
White squeeze tube with pastel yellow accents — hygienic, lightweight, and travel-friendly. 50ml capacity.
Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml TSA carry-on liquid limit. Ideal for international flights and weekend trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis sunscreen uses chemical UV filters (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Polysilicone-15). These newer-generation filters are generally considered low-risk and are not flagged by EU pregnancy guidelines. However, many dermatologists recommend mineral (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) sunscreens during pregnancy out of an abundance of caution, since hormonal changes can also make skin more reactive. If you prefer a mineral option, Dear, Klairs makes the All-day Airy Mineral Sunscreen as a sister product. Always consult your OB-GYN.
Yes — this formula is considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It does not contain the typical triggers: fatty acid esters (like myristates or palmitates), polysorbates, or fermented ingredients. The plant extracts and chemical filters used here have not been linked to Malassezia growth. As with any product, individual skin can react differently, so a 2-week patch test on a small area is wise if you have severe fungal acne.
Yes, fully compatible. Sunscreen is always the LAST step of your morning routine — apply it after any vitamin C serum, niacinamide, or moisturizer. Retinol, AHA, and BHA are typically used at night, not in the morning. In fact, daily SPF is essential when using these actives because they make skin more photosensitive. The niacinamide already in Klairs supports barrier health alongside these actives.
This sunscreen is best suited for dry, normal, sensitive, and dehydrated skin types. The hydrating gel-cream texture acts as a light moisturizer, making it ideal for those who skip AM moisturizer or live in dry climates. Combination and oily skin types may find the dewy finish too rich in summer — those skin types may prefer Klairs' Mineral version, PURITO Daily Soft Touch, or Isntree Hyaluronic Watery Sun Gel for a lighter feel.
UV protection is immediate — once applied 15-20 minutes before sun exposure, the chemical filters bond with skin and start blocking harmful rays. Calming benefits from purslane, aloe, and panthenol are noticeable within 1-2 weeks. Brightening from niacinamide and prevention of new dark spots typically takes 4-8 weeks of daily, consistent use. Long-term anti-aging benefits (smoother texture, reduced fine lines from UV damage) compound over months and years of regular SPF use.
Always at the very end of your morning routine, after toner, essence, serum, eye cream, and moisturizer. Sunscreen must sit on top of your other products (not be diluted by them) to form an even protective film. If you wear makeup, sunscreen goes on before primer/foundation. Wait a full 1-2 minutes for it to set before applying makeup to avoid pilling.
The formula has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5 — very low risk of clogging pores. None of the major ingredients are heavily comedogenic. Klairs has completed Primary Skin Irritation Tests for sensitive skin. That said, the dewy, slightly tacky finish can feel heavier on very oily skin types in humid weather, which some users perceive as "congesting" — but this is typically a feel issue rather than actual pore-clogging.
Period After Opening (PAO): 12 months. Look for the small jar icon with "12M" on the packaging. Once opened, finish within 12 months for best efficacy — UV filters slowly degrade after that. Unopened, the product has a shelf life of approximately 30 months from manufacture date. Store below 25°C (77°F), away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as heat degrades chemical sunscreen filters.
Yes — Dear, Klairs is a certified cruelty-free Korean brand and this sunscreen is fully vegan. No animal-derived ingredients, no animal testing, and no testing required by Korea (Korea banned cosmetic animal testing in 2018). The brand also avoids artificial colorants, parabens, and essential oils across its range.
Generally yes, with the right technique. Apply by patting (not rubbing), wait 1-2 minutes for it to set, then apply makeup. Pilling can occur if you layer it over heavy silicone-based primers or rub vigorously. For best results, pair with water-based or hybrid foundations rather than thick cream foundations. The dewy finish gives makeup a glowy base, especially with matte cushion or BB cream foundations.
Verdict: Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen is a standout K-beauty SPF for anyone with dry, normal, or sensitive skin who wants a true broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen with zero white cast. Its triple-lab-verified SPF 50+ PA++++ rating, modern photostable filter system, and 11-botanical soothing complex make it more than just sun protection — it's a hybrid moisturizer-treatment-shield. The fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and vegan formula earns extra points for sensitive skin and clean-beauty fans. Marks come off only for the slightly tacky finish on oily/combination skin in summer and slower absorption time. If you've loved Beauty of Joseon's Rice + Probiotics or Round Lab Birch Juice, this is a worthy and slightly more luxurious next step.Highly recommended for daily, year-round wear.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Dibutyl Adipate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Polysilicone-15
Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 1 |
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
|
|








