A Critical Look at Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Honest Review

As I strolled through the bustling streets of Itaewon on a sunny afternoon, I couldn’t help but notice the surge in popularity of the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun sunscreen. This product has been receiving rave reviews online, seemingly flying off the shelves at stores like Olive Young and H Mart. As someone living in Seoul, I’ve always approached trending products with a healthy amount of skepticism, so I decided to put this sunscreen to the test myself.

Product Overview

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun, priced at approximately 17,000 won (around $14), positions itself as a sun cream that not only protects against UV rays but also offers skincare benefits. With a blend of traditional Korean ingredients like green tea and ginseng, it’s aimed at those who want more than just sun protection. The claims suggest that it hydrates the skin while calming inflammation, making it particularly appealing for sensitive skin types.

Packaging and Texture

The sunscreen comes in a sleek, minimalist tube that fits comfortably in a handbag. The first thing I noticed was its lightweight texture. Unlike many sunscreens that can feel heavy or greasy, this one has a more fluid consistency, making it easy to apply. It spreads evenly across the skin and absorbs fairly quickly, which is a crucial factor for anyone who’s constantly on the go in the city.

Application and Performance

Applying the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun was a surprisingly pleasant experience. It glided smoothly on my skin, and I appreciated how effortlessly it blended in. One of my biggest concerns with sunscreens is the white cast they can leave, and I’m happy to report that this product does a commendable job in this regard. After application, my skin looked natural and dewy, without the ghostly hue that some sunscreens impart.

Skin Feel and Wearability

Throughout the day, I tested how this sunscreen held up in various conditions—walking through crowded markets in Myeongdong, sitting at a café in Yeonnam-dong, and even enduring the humid heat of an afternoon in Gangnam. It felt comfortable on my skin, without any stinging or irritation, which I often experience with chemical sunscreens. Even after a few hours, my face didn’t feel overly greasy, a pleasant surprise for someone with combination skin.

Ingredients Analysis

The ingredient list is another area where Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun shines. Featuring niacinamide, a favourite in K-beauty for its brightening and skin barrier-supporting properties, it’s coupled with other beneficial ingredients like centella asiatica and green tea extract. These components not only protect the skin from sun damage but also work to soothe and hydrate. For those interested in skincare, this dual functionality is appealing.

Potential Drawbacks

While my experience with the product has been mostly positive, it’s worth mentioning a couple of potential drawbacks. Firstly, the scent. Some might find the fragrance a bit strong, as it has a noticeable herbal aroma, which could be off-putting to those sensitive to scents. Secondly, despite its claims of being suitable for sensitive skin, everyone’s skin reacts differently. It’s essential to patch test any new product.

Comparisons to Other Sunscreens

In my quest to find the best sunscreen, I’ve tried several popular brands that often get mentioned alongside Beauty of Joseon. Products like Missha's All Around Safe Block and the Innisfree Daily UV Protection Cream are also solid contenders in the market. While they each have their strengths, Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun stands out for its unique combination of skincare benefits and effective sun protection. However, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and skin type.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is a product that lives up to a good portion of its hype. Its combination of hydrating properties and effective sun protection make it a solid choice for daily use, especially in a city like Seoul where UV exposure is a constant concern. However, as with any skincare product, individual results may vary.

What’s next on my list? In the upcoming post, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on some of the best local skincare ingredients that can enhance your routine.