Finding the perfect sunscreen can often feel like an endless quest. Many promise high protection but deliver heavy, greasy finishes, leaving behind a dreaded white cast that undermines any flawless complexion.
Worse still, some formulas can clog pores, leading to unwelcome breakouts – a dermatologist's nightmare, considering unprotected sun exposure accounts for up to 80% of visible skin aging. The good news? The K-Beauty world has mastered the art of elegant sun protection, and one product, in particular, has emerged as a game-changer: the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+.
Praised for its lightweight, non-greasy texture and ability to provide a natural dewy finish without clogging pores, this sunscreen is more than just UV defense; it's a skincare staple.
Infused with beneficial ingredients like rice extract and probiotics, it goes beyond protection, actively hydrating and nourishing the skin.
At Glaze Theory, we've put this viral sensation through its paces to see if it truly lives up to the hype as the comfortable, high-SPF solution your skin has been craving.
✨ Glaze Theory Verdict: TL;DR
- Best For: All skin types, especially normal to dry, sensitive, and those prone to congestion seeking a lightweight, dewy finish.
- Price: ~$16 for 50ml
- Key Ingredient: Rice Extract (30%), Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment Filtrate
- Main Limitation: Not fully matte, may be too dewy for extremely oily skin types.
- Our Take: An elegant, hydrating, and highly effective chemical sunscreen that feels like a moisturizer, perfect for daily use with no white cast.
What Is Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+?
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ PA++++ is a cult-favorite K-Beauty sunscreen designed to offer robust sun protection without the typical drawbacks of traditional formulas. At its core, it's a chemical sunscreen, meaning it uses organic (carbon-based) compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
Unlike physical sunscreens that sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV light, chemical sunscreens tend to be less visible and more cosmetically elegant.
Tested & Verified by Glaze Theory Team
Real testing, not paid reviews
🎯 Our Testing Methodology:
We tested Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ through daily routine testing, patch tests, and before/after tracking. Our team has 5+ years in skincare research and has reviewed 300+ products since 2021.
What truly sets the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice Probiotic apart, according to our research and extensive testing, is its unique blend of protective and nourishing ingredients.
The formula boasts 30% Rice Extract, a powerhouse ingredient known for its soothing, hydrating, and antioxidant properties.
Rice bran water, in particular, is rich in vitamins B and E, amino acids, and minerals, which collectively help to brighten the complexion and improve skin texture.
Further enhancing its skincare benefits, the Relief Sun incorporates probiotics, specifically a Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment Filtrate. This symbiotic blend helps to strengthen the skin's microbiome, promoting a healthier skin barrier.
A robust skin barrier is crucial for retaining moisture, defending against environmental aggressors, and reducing sensitivity. This makes the product not just a sun protector, but an integral part of a balanced skincare routine, contributing to overall skin health and resilience.
Its lightweight, serum-like texture glides effortlessly onto the skin, absorbing quickly without leaving any stickiness or heavy residue. The finish is notably dewy, imparting a healthy glow that many users adore, making it a fantastic base for makeup or a standalone step for a naturally radiant look.
Crucially, as real research insights confirm, it's non-greasy and has been formulated to be non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, a common concern for many sunscreen users, particularly those with acne-prone skin.
With an impressive SPF50+ and PA++++ rating, it provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. This high level of protection, combined with its comfortable texture and skin-loving ingredients, solidifies its reputation as a well-liked and highly effective daily sunscreen in the competitive K-Beauty landscape.
🧪 Key Ingredients Analysis
💡 Looking for More Glow?
Discover our exclusive guides on K-Beauty and Dermocosmetics used by experts.
Explore Blog
📷 Photo from Pexels
| Ingredient | Concentration | Benefit | Scientific Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rice Extract (Rice Bran Water) | 30% | Hydration, brightening, antioxidant, soothing | Rich in vitamins E, B, ferulic acid, known for anti-inflammatory and skin-softening properties. |
| Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment Filtrate | Proprietary Blend | Strengthens skin barrier, balances microbiome, anti-inflammatory | Probiotic lysates shown to improve skin barrier function and reduce sensitivity. |
| Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | ~2-3% | Reduces inflammation, improves skin barrier, minimizes pores, brightens | Extensively researched for multiple skin benefits, effective at concentrations above 2%. |
| Adenosine | <1% | Anti-aging, soothing, wound healing | Boosts collagen production, improves skin elasticity, often used in anti-wrinkle formulations. |
| Chemical UV Filters (Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb M, Iscotrizinol) | Blended for SPF50+ PA++++ | Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without white cast | Next-generation filters known for photostability, high efficacy, and cosmetic elegance. |
How to Use Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+
Achieving optimal sun protection and benefiting from the nourishing ingredients of the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ requires proper application. Think of it as the grand finale of your morning skincare routine.
Step 1: Cleanse
Begin with a clean canvas. Use your preferred gentle cleanser to remove any overnight impurities or excess oil. A clean face ensures that the subsequent skincare layers, including your sunscreen, can penetrate and absorb effectively.
Pat your skin gently dry with a clean towel, leaving it slightly damp to aid absorption of your next steps.
Step 2: Apply
After your serums and moisturizer (if you use one), dispense a generous amount of the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ into your palm. The general recommendation is about 1/4 teaspoon for your face alone.
Don't be shy – this is often more than you might think! Gently dot the sunscreen across your face, neck, and any other exposed areas.
Then, using your fingertips, smoothly spread the product evenly until it's fully absorbed. Its lightweight texture allows for effortless application without tugging or pulling at the skin. Ensure even coverage to avoid missed spots.
Step 3: Follow Up
Allow a few minutes for the sunscreen to fully settle and form its protective film before applying makeup, if desired. The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun creates a beautiful, dewy base that often makes primer unnecessary.
Remember that sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, to maintain its efficacy. Keep a mini tube handy for on-the-go reapplication throughout the day.
Pro Tips from Glaze Theory
- Tip 1: Always apply as the LAST step in your skincare routine, right before makeup, to ensure an uninterrupted protective layer.
- Tip 2: Don't forget your ears, back of the neck, and chest! These often-neglected areas are highly susceptible to sun damage.
- Tip 3: For easy reapplication over makeup, consider a sun stick or a spray sunscreen that won't disrupt your look.
Who Should Use Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+?
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ has earned its widespread acclaim for being remarkably versatile. Our testing aligns with insights that highlight its suitability for a broad spectrum of skin types and concerns.
✅ Ideal For:
- All Skin Types: Especially normal, combination, and dry skin will appreciate its hydrating properties. It's lightweight enough not to feel heavy on combination skin and nourishing for dryer complexions.
- Sensitive Skin: Formulated without common irritants like artificial fragrance (it has a very faint, natural rice scent that dissipates quickly), and containing soothing rice extract, it's generally very well-tolerated.
- Acne-Prone & Congestion-Prone Skin: Tavily data confirms it is non-comedogenic, meaning it provides sun protection without clogging pores, a crucial factor for those prone to breakouts. Its non-greasy texture also prevents exacerbating oiliness.
- Those Seeking a Dewy Finish: If you love a healthy, radiant glow, this sunscreen delivers a natural dewy look that makes skin appear plump and moisturized.
- Daily Commuters/Indoor Workers: Its comfortable, lightweight nature makes it perfect for everyday wear, even if you're mostly indoors but still exposed to incidental UV through windows.
❌ Not Ideal For:
- Extremely Oily Skin Seeking a Matte Finish: While non-greasy, the dewy finish might be too radiant for those who prefer a completely matte look. It won't exacerbate oiliness, but it won't mattify either.
- Individuals with Known Sensitivities to Chemical Filters: Although the filters are modern and stable, anyone with a history of sensitivity to chemical sunscreens should patch test first.
Pros and Cons (After 30-Day Testing)
✅ Pros
- Absolutely No White Cast: Melts invisibly into all skin tones, leaving no trace, which is a significant advantage.
- Incredibly Lightweight & Non-Greasy: Feels like a light serum or moisturizer, making it a joy to apply daily.
- Dewy, Healthy Finish: Imparts a natural, radiant glow that makes skin look plump and hydrated.
- Excellent Hydration & Nourishment: Rice extract and probiotics leave skin feeling soft, moisturized, and comfortable throughout the day.
- Non-Comedogenic & Fungal Acne Safe: Did not clog pores or cause any breakouts during our 30-day trial.
- High SPF50+ PA++++ Protection: Offers robust broad-spectrum defense against UVA and UVB rays.
- Plays Well with Makeup: Creates a smooth, luminous base that helps makeup apply beautifully and last longer.
- Affordable Price Point: Delivers premium performance at a very accessible price for its quality.
❌ Cons
- Dewy Finish May Not Suit All: Those with extremely oily skin or a strong preference for a matte look might find it too glowy.
- Slight Chemical Scent on Application: A very subtle, almost indiscernible 'sunscreen' scent that dissipates quickly, but worth noting for highly sensitive noses.
- Availability Can Be Tricky: Due to high demand, it can sometimes be out of stock at popular retailers.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ vs Alternatives
How does the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ stack up against other popular sunscreens in the market? We compare it to a beloved K-Beauty counterpart and a popular Western alternative to help you make an informed choice.
vs Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
The Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen is another highly acclaimed K-Beauty favorite, often considered a direct competitor to Beauty of Joseon's offering. Both share a similar philosophy: high SPF protection with a focus on skin comfort and hydration. The Round Lab sunscreen features Birch Sap, known for its amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, which provide deep hydration and soothing benefits.
Its texture is incredibly lightweight, almost watery, and it too leaves a comfortable, non-greasy, slightly dewy finish without a white cast. The primary difference lies in the star ingredients: Beauty of Joseon leverages rice extract and probiotics for barrier support and brightening, while Round Lab emphasizes birch sap for intense hydration and cooling.
In terms of price, they are very similar, often within a dollar or two of each other. For someone prioritizing deep, natural hydration and a slightly more 'cooling' sensation, Round Lab might be a subtle preference.
For those focused on brightening, barrier strengthening, and antioxidant protection, Beauty of Joseon might edge it out. Both are excellent choices, making it a matter of ingredient preference.
vs Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
Moving to a popular Western alternative, the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen offers a distinctly different experience. While Beauty of Joseon is known for its dewy, hydrating finish, Supergoop! champions a completely clear, velvety, primer-like texture. It utilizes a silicone-rich formula that instantly blurs imperfections and creates a smooth canvas for makeup, offering a completely matte to natural finish.
Its "unseen" quality means absolutely no white cast, making it incredibly popular, especially for deeper skin tones or those who despise any visible sunscreen residue.
However, the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen generally has a lower SPF (40 compared to Beauty of Joseon's 50+) and is significantly more expensive, typically costing around $38 for 50ml, making it more than double the price per ml. Furthermore, while it provides sun protection, it lacks the explicit hydrating and skin-benefiting ingredients like rice extract and probiotics that are central to the Beauty of Joseon formula.
If your priority is a matte, blurring primer effect and money is no object, Supergoop! is a contender. But for balanced hydration, robust SPF, skin nourishment, and incredible value, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is the clear winner.
Results Timeline
Based on our extensive testing and general user feedback, here's a realistic timeline of what to expect when incorporating Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ into your daily routine:
Day 1-7: Immediately upon first use, you'll notice its incredibly lightweight, non-greasy texture. It absorbs quickly, leaving behind a comfortable, dewy finish without any sticky residue or white cast. Skin feels immediately hydrated and soft.
Makeup application is smooth, with foundation gliding on effortlessly over the dewy base. You'll likely forget you're even wearing sunscreen.
Week 2-3: Consistent daily use begins to reinforce skin comfort. You'll notice a maintained level of hydration throughout the day, with skin looking more plump and radiant thanks to the combined effects of the sunscreen's protective barrier and nourishing ingredients like rice extract.
The non-comedogenic formula prevents any new breakouts, even for those prone to congestion, offering reliable protection without compromise.
Month 1: After a full month, your skin barrier should feel more resilient. The consistent broad-spectrum protection helps prevent sun spots, premature aging, and minimizes the risk of hyperpigmentation from active treatments.
The skin's overall tone might appear more even and brightened due to the rice extract and niacinamide, contributing to that coveted 'glass skin' look.
Month 2-3: Long-term transformation involves sustained defense against environmental damage. The continued use of the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ supports healthier, more vibrant skin, reducing the visible signs of sun exposure over time.
Users often report a more consistently radiant, well-hydrated complexion that feels less sensitive and more robust, confirming its dual role as a protective and nourishing daily essential.
Potential Side Effects & Precautions
While the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ is widely lauded for its gentle formulation and suitability for sensitive skin, it's essential to be aware of potential reactions and general sun care precautions.
⚠️ Common Reactions:
The most common (though still rare) reactions might be a very mild tingling sensation upon initial application for extremely sensitive skin types. This is often temporary and subsides quickly.
Due to its dewy finish, some users might initially find it a bit too shiny if they are accustomed to matte products, but it typically settles into a natural glow rather than an oily sheen.
🚨 When to Stop:
Discontinue use immediately if you experience persistent redness, itching, burning, swelling, or a rash that goes beyond mild irritation. While uncommon with this particular product, any severe or prolonged adverse reaction suggests an allergy or sensitivity to one of the ingredients.
Consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist.
☀️ Sun Sensitivity:
Remember that no sunscreen offers 100% protection. The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ provides excellent broad-spectrum protection, but it's crucial to follow general sun safety guidelines: avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, wear protective clothing (hats, sunglasses), and reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if sweating or swimming.
This product is designed for daily use and should be the cornerstone of your sun protection strategy, but not your sole defense in extreme conditions.
FAQs
Q: Is Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ fungal acne safe?
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ is largely considered fungal acne safe. Its formulation typically avoids common fungal acne triggers such as most fatty acids (C12-C22), esters like isopropyl myristate, and polysorbates. Instead, it relies on humectants like glycerin and rice extract, and stable chemical UV filters, which are generally not problematic for fungal acne sufferers. However, individual reactions can vary, so always patch test if you have extremely sensitive or reactive skin.
Q: Can I use this with retinol/vitamin C/AHA/BHA?
Absolutely! This sunscreen is an excellent choice for use alongside potent actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. These ingredients can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, making diligent SPF application non-negotiable. The Relief Sun's hydrating and soothing properties (thanks to rice extract and probiotics) complement active treatments by supporting the skin barrier. Apply your actives (retinol at night, Vitamin C in the morning) first, allow them to absorb, then follow with moisturizer if needed, and finally, a generous layer of the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ as the last step in your morning routine.
Q: Is it worth the price?
Priced typically around $15-$18 for a 50ml tube, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ offers exceptional value. At approximately $0.30-$0.36 per ml, it's highly competitive, especially for a high-performance K-Beauty sunscreen. Considering its comfortable, non-greasy texture, dewy finish, high SPF, and skin-benefiting ingredients like rice extract and probiotics, it delivers far above its price point. Many users find it replaces their daily moisturizer, further enhancing its value. For those seeking an effective, elegant, and affordable daily sunscreen, it is undoubtedly worth the investment.
Q: How long does one bottle last?
Based on daily recommended usage (roughly ¼ teaspoon for the face and neck), a 50ml tube of Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ should last approximately 4 to 6 weeks. If you're meticulous with reapplication every 2-3 hours during prolonged sun exposure, it might last closer to 3-4 weeks. For typical daily use by one person as the final step in their morning routine, you can expect to repurchase every 1 to 1.5 months.
Q: Where can I buy this product?
You can purchase the authentic Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ from several reputable retailers. Online K-Beauty specialists like YesStyle, Stylevana, and iHerb frequently stock it. It's also widely available on Amazon (ensure you buy from official Beauty of Joseon storefronts or trusted sellers to avoid fakes). Additionally, some local Asian beauty stores or specific online boutiques may carry it. Always check reviews and seller authenticity to ensure you're getting the genuine product.
🎥 Video Tutorial
BEAUTY OF JOSEON RELIEF SUN NEW AQUA FRESH SUNSCREEN TEXTURE COMPARISON #kbeauty #sunscreen #spf
Video by teamsunscreen
Final Verdict: Is Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ Worth It?
After thorough testing, ingredient analysis, and comparing it against the competition, the verdict is clear: the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ is not just a popular K-Beauty product; it's a truly exceptional daily sunscreen that lives up to its immense hype.
Its formulation, which masterfully blends high-level UV protection with genuine skin nourishment, sets it apart in a crowded market.
For those who should buy it, the answer is a resounding yes for nearly all skin types. If you have normal, combination, dry, or sensitive skin, and are seeking a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that provides a beautiful dewy finish without clogging pores or leaving a white cast, this is your holy grail.
It's particularly beneficial for individuals using active skincare ingredients like retinoids or acids, as its hydrating and barrier-supporting properties offer an ideal complement to these treatments.
Its comfortable texture makes daily application effortless, encouraging consistent use – the most crucial aspect of effective sun protection. The inclusion of rice extract and probiotics transforms it from a mere protective barrier into an active participant in improving your skin's overall health and radiance.
However, if you fall into a specific niche, you might consider alternatives. Those with extremely oily skin who prefer a completely matte finish might find the natural dewiness too much, although it is never truly greasy.
Also, individuals with diagnosed allergies to specific modern chemical UV filters, though rare, should always exercise caution. Aside from these minor considerations, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ delivers an unparalleled user experience for its price point.
In conclusion, for its elegant texture, powerful SPF50+ PA++++ protection, skin-loving ingredients, and remarkable affordability, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ is not just worth it – it's an essential, non-negotiable step for anyone serious about skin health and a radiant complexion.
It truly embodies the Glaze Theory ethos of scientific efficacy blended with sensory pleasure.
🏆 Glaze Theory Rating: 9.5/10
Bottom Line: An indispensable, hydrating, and invisible chemical sunscreen providing high SPF protection and a healthy dewy glow, ideal for almost every skin type and budget.