When the leaves fall and the snow begins to cover Swiss mountains, many people put their sunscreen back into storage — but dermatologists agree: UV protection is just as important in autumn and winter. At high altitude, UV intensity can be up to 40% stronger than at sea level. Combine that with snow reflecting sunlight, and your skin is exposed even on cloudy days.
The good news? Korean sunscreens (K-Beauty) are famous for their lightweight textures, innovative filters, and skin-friendly formulas — perfect for daily use and ski trips alike. Here’s your 2025 guide to the best options you can shop in Switzerland.
Why Sunscreen Matters Year-Round in Switzerland
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Altitude: Switzerland’s ski resorts sit between 1,500–3,000 m — UV levels rise 10–12% with every 1,000 m of altitude.
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Reflection: Fresh snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays back onto your skin.
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Clouds don’t block UV: Up to 90% of rays penetrate cloud cover.
Skin aging: UVA rays (present year-round) are the leading cause of premature wrinkles and pigmentation.
The Best Korean Sunscreens You Can Buy in Switzerland

1. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
- Why we love it: Lightweight, creamy texture that melts into the skin without white cast.
- Best for: Dry to combination skin during cold months — rice extract helps maintain hydration.
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Perfect for: Daily wear under makeup in Zurich or Geneva winters.
2. COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++
- Why we love it: Affordable, soothing, with aloe vera to calm irritation.
- Best for: Ski beginners who may experience windburn + sun exposure at once.
- Perfect for: Teens and budget-friendly daily wear.
3. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++
- Why we love it: Lightweight but nourishing, with eight types of hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- Best for: Normal to dry skin — keeps skin soft even in heated indoor environments or alpine dryness.
- Perfect for: Daily wear in cities like Zurich, Basel, or Geneva.
4. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream SPF50+
- Why we love it: Infused with birch sap, a hydration powerhouse.
- Best for: Dry or sensitive skin, especially in cold mountain air.
- Perfect for: Ski weekends in Zermatt or Davos — comfort + protection in one tube.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly in Switzerland
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Use two fingers’ length of sunscreen for face and neck.
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Reapply every 2–3 hours outdoors, especially at high altitude.
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Don’t skip areas like ears, nose bridge, and chin — snow reflection hits these hardest.
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Pair with an SPF lip balm to avoid chapped, sunburned lips.
Quick FAQ
Q: Do I need sunscreen in winter in Switzerland?
• Yes. High-altitude sun and snow reflection increase UV exposure in winter.
Q: Which sunscreen is best for dry skin?
• Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream or Round Lab Birch Juice.
Q: Which sunscreen works best under makeup?
• Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun has a soft finish that layers seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re in Zurich commuting to work, or skiing in St. Moritz, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Luckily, Korean sunscreens make it easy — lightweight, hydrating, and protective without the heavy feel.
👉 Browse our full sunscreen collection and find your K-Beauty SPF essential in MI in ME for every Swiss season.