Navigating the world of sun protection can feel overwhelming. You're looking for a sunscreen that not only shields you from the sun but also feels comfortable, works well under makeup and doesn't leave that dreaded white film. It's no surprise that Korean sunscreens have become so popular in the UK, and the Beauty of Joseon range consistently appears at the top of many wish lists.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you understand the key differences between popular products. This guide is designed to break down the two main Beauty of Joseon sunscreen formulas, helping you choose the right one for your skin type and daily routine.
Before we look at the specific products, here are a few practical points to consider when selecting any daily sun protection.
You will often see SPF 50+ and a PA rating on K-beauty sunscreens. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) primarily measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. The PA system, popular in Asian markets, measures protection against UVA rays, which are responsible for premature ageing. A rating of PA++++ offers a very high level of UVA protection, making it an excellent choice for daily use to guard against long-term skin damage.
The way a sunscreen feels on your skin can determine whether you use it consistently. If you have oily or combination skin, a heavy cream can feel greasy and lead to breakouts. In this case, a Korean sunscreen for oily skin with a gel or water-cream texture is often a better fit. For those with dry or normal skin, a more moisturising cream formula can provide welcome hydration. The goal for most is a lightweight sunscreen with no white cast, and modern formulas make this highly achievable.
One of the hallmarks of K-beauty is multitasking products. A sunscreen with rice extract, for example, does more than just protect. Ingredients like rice, probiotics and panthenol can help to hydrate, soothe and support the skin barrier, turning your sun protection step into a true skincare treatment.
Beauty of Joseon offers two distinct sunscreens under its 'Relief Sun' line. While both provide high protection, their textures and key ingredients are tailored for different skin needs.
Why It Stands Out
This is the original formula that gained a cult following. The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is a moisturising chemical sunscreen with a texture that feels more like a lightweight lotion than a traditional, thick sun cream. It’s enriched with 30% rice extract and grain-fermented extracts, which provide moisture and nourishment to the skin.
The creamy consistency absorbs into the skin remarkably well, leaving a natural, dewy finish without any stickiness. It’s formulated to be gentle and hydrating, making it a comfortable choice for everyday wear, even for those with sensitive skin.
Pros
Who is it for? This sunscreen is an excellent match for individuals with normal, combination or dry skin types who are looking for a product that offers both sun protection and significant moisturising benefits.
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Why It Stands Out
The Beauty of Joseon Aqua Fresh is the brand's answer for those who crave an even lighter, more refreshing texture. As a water-based gel-cream, it feels incredibly weightless and delivers a burst of hydration upon application. This formula is built around rice seed water and pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol), which work together to hydrate and calm the skin.
Its primary appeal is its non-greasy, barely-there finish. It absorbs almost instantly, leaving the skin feeling fresh and balanced, making it a standout option for warmer months or for those whose skin produces more oil.
Pros
Who is it for? This is the ideal choice for people with combination, oily or acne-prone skin. If you dislike the feeling of any product on your skin or find that most sunscreens feel too heavy, this refreshing gel formula is for you.
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A great sunscreen is your first line of defence against environmental stressors. If your primary concern is calming sensitivity and strengthening your skin barrier, pairing your SPF with other targeted products can enhance your results.
Explore our curated collection of relief creams to discover moisturisers and treatments designed to soothe, comfort and restore balance to your skin.
Yes, both formulas can work, but the Beauty Of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Gel Cream is specifically recommended for oily skin. Its water-gel texture is exceptionally lightweight and non-greasy, helping to control shine while providing K-beauty SPF 50 protection. The original Rice + Probiotics version can also be suitable, but its creamier texture is often preferred by those with normal to combination skin.
No, neither the Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics nor the Aqua-Fresh Gel Cream leaves a white cast. Both are formulated with modern chemical UV filters that absorb invisibly into the skin, making them suitable for all skin tones. This is one of the key reasons for their popularity.
Absolutely. Both sunscreens are designed to function beautifully as a final step in your skincare routine before makeup. They absorb well without pilling and create a smooth, hydrated canvas, helping your foundation and other base products apply more evenly.