Dr. Jane Yoo reviews four Tocobo sunscreens and breaks down their UV filters, textures, and target skin types. Many of the filters used, like Uvinul A+ and Tinosorb S, aren't approved in the U.S., which is why Korean sunscreens feel lighter and offer broader protection than American ones.
Hi everyone, I'm Dr. Jane Yoo, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Today I want to introduce to you Tocobo, a Korean brand that's become a favorite for its innovative vegan sun protection and skincare. Tocobo sun sticks and serums are especially popular for their advanced UV filters, soothing botanicals, and easy-to-use formats. The Cotton Soft Sun Stick combines filters like octocrylene, and octisalate for UVB protection, Uvinul A+ for UVA 1, Tinosorb S for broad UVA and UVB, and titanium dioxide for additional coverage. This combination provides broad-spectrum protection with a lightweight matte finish. The stick format is designed for easy reapplication and is often used by people with oily or combination skin because it doesn't leave a white cast and feels non-greasy. The Vita Waterproof Sun Stick uses Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T150, Parsol SLX, Tinosorb S, and zinc oxide. It also includes vitamin C, vitamin E, and calamine, which are intended to brighten and soothe the skin. The finish is powdery and matte, and the formula is water-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor or humid conditions. Now, The Cica Cooling Sun Stick focuses on soothing sensitive skin. It relies on Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T150, Parsol SLX, and Tinosorb S for UV protection and includes Centella Asiatica and various forms of hyaluronic acid for hydration and a cooling effect. The texture is light and absorbs quickly, leaving no sticky residue or white cast. The Cica Calming Sun Serum is a lightweight watery sunscreen that combines fermented cica, multi-hyaluronic acid, and tea tree extract for hydration and calming benefits. You can't drink this. It is formulated to absorb quickly and layer well under other products. A notable aspect of Tocobo sunscreens is the use of several UV filters not approved for use in the US sunscreens, including Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Parsol SLX, and Tinosorb M. Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Uvinul A+ targets longwave UVA 1. Uvinul T 150 is a highly efficient UVB filter, and Parsol SLX also covers UVB. The inclusion of these filters result in broad spectrum protection and contributes to lighter, more elegant textures often found in Korean sun care products. This difference in filter approval is one reason why Korean sunscreens can feel and perform differently from many American options.
