AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick - "Keep skin safe and protected when outdoors with this powerful sun stick fitted with SPF50+ PA++++ and formulated with the brand’s UV IR BLOCK™ technology to simultaneously block out UV rays and heat from the sun. It contains various skin care ingredients (including bamboo extract, glacier water and cotton seed extract) to soothe, smooth and hydrate skin. Dermatologically tested formula is safe for sensitive skin." Net Wt: 22g | Php 600 | Buy Here: AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick.

Belo Sunexpert Dewy Essence Sunscreen SPF50 - "Meet your sunscreen match. Introducing the Belo SunExpert Dewy Sunscreen – The ultra-lightweight, hydrating sunscreen for those with zero tolerance for stickiness." Net Vol. 50ml | Php 400 (~USD$ 8)

Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++ - "Protect skin against the harmful effects of UV rays with this broad-spectrum sun milk. Packed with nourishing ingredients like apricot, lotus, chrysanthemum, and thanaka tree extracts, the SPF 50+ PA++++ sunscreen moisturizes and soothes skin without leaving a sticky feeling. Apply to face and body at the last step of skincare." Net Vol. 70ml | ~ Php 450

Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

Hi everyone. I hope you are having a good weekend. For today, I have the last of the K-beauty sunscreens I featured last time, the Missha Essence Sun Milk. Missha offers an extensive range of sunscreens for every skin type and this one is targeted for dry skin.

Benefits:
- Lightweight, non-sticky sunblock for everyday use
- SPF50+ PA+++
- Has a cooling sensation to soothe the skin

Key Ingredients:
Natural Barrier Complex - Contains golden root, guava leaf, cinchona, verbena, and aloe vera extract to hydrate, nourish and protect the skin from damage
Helios Chrysos Flower Water - Protects the skin from external factors
Thanaka and Antozone-Roze - Keeps the skin shielded from damage caused by external pollutants

How to use: Apply an even layer onto the skin prior and allow to absorb before leaving the house.

Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk comes in a plastic squeezable tube with a nozzle cap. It contains 70ml of product so the bottle is bigger than most sunscreens in the market. It's still lightweight and travel-friendly and the nozzle is a great way of dispensing just enough product to use.

What I liked about this sunscreen is how lightweight it feels on the skin. Th watery-gel consistency is the lightest formula I have tried in a sunscreen. The product feels soothing and cooling and is absorbed readily. It is also non-greasy and non-sticky.

Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk is a chemical sunscreen and as such not feel heavy on the skin. It applies well under makeup and does not pill. It also has nourishing and moisturizing benefits because of the "Natural Barrier Complex (flower extracts)."

Swatch: Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

Personally, I prefer to use this sunscreen during the colder months when my skin feels dry and needs a bit of hydration and TLC. With my oily-combination skin, I find the formula of this sunscreen a tad too moisturizing during the summer.

Overall, Missha Essence Sun Milk is one of my go-to sunscreens for colder months. This chemical sunscreen feels lightweight, hydrating, nourishing, and cooling. It is absorbed readily and doesn't feel greasy even when you apply several layers of it. This also has a soothing and calming effect on the skin. In addition, this doesn't separate or pill underneath makeup and doesn't leave any white cast. It leaves a semi-matte, natural finish. This sunscreen provides maximum sun protection and is affordable. This has a slight perfume fragrance so those who have very sensitive noses may want to avoid this one

 

Pros:

- Lightweight, watery-gel formula

- Moisturizing and nourishing yet non-sticky

- Cooling and soothing effect

- Absorbs readily

- Doesn't disturb makeup, does not pill

- Maximum broad spectrum protection and high SPF 

- Natural finish

- Affordable

Cons:

-Slight perfume fragrance

Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat., Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Octocrylene, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Helichrysum Arenarium Extract, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Silica, Althaea Rosea Root Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Nylon-12, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Limonia Acidissima Extract, Dimethicone, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, BHT, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Rosa Davurica Bud Extract, Potassium sorbate, Pentylene Glycol, Chrysanthemum Indicum flower Extract, Camellia Japonica Flower Extract, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Psidium Guajava Leaf Extract, Abronia Villosa Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Cinchona Succirubra Bark Extract, Prunus Mume Flower Extract, Cyclopentasiloxane, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Water, Calendula officinalis flower water, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Water, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rhodiola Rosea Root Extract, Morus Alba Fruit Extract, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract, Artemisia princeps Leaf Extract, Methoxy PEG/PPG-25/4 Dimethicone, Bis-PEG/PPG-20/5 PEG/PPG-20/5 Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Caprylyl Methicone, Betaine

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++ - "Protects skin against UVA and UVB rays with SPF 50+ PA+++ from a combination of chemical and physical sunscreens. Enriched with 55000ppm of aloe vera leaf extract to soothe moisturize and nourish the skin. The fast-absorbing texture doesn't leave a white cast or greasy finish and won't stain clothing. Clinically proven to be hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin. Can be used on the face and body."

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

Hi there. Let's continue with our sunscreen reviews with this cult favorite from COSRX. This sunscreen was one of my go-to when I was still exploring different types of sun protection. I bought several tubes of this sunscreen and for months, this has been my go-to daily sun protection. I have since found better sunblocks for my skin type but the COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is still remains a staple.

Benefits:
- Block UV rays
- Soothes & moisturizes skin
- Lightweight texture 

Targets:
- Doesn't want a white cast
- Enjoy outdoor activities often
- Dehydrated skin

How to use: Apply a generous amount on over face 30 minutes before sun exposure.Reapply throughout the day as needed, especially during prolonged sun exposure.

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream comes in a white plastic squeeze tube with a black flip-top cap. The packaging is simple yet handy. I especially like the flip-top cap because it's more convenient to use and I don't easily lose the cap. The plastic tube feels sturdy and travel-friendly.

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

This sunscreen has a creamy formula so it can feel a bit heavy for those with oily skin. However, if you have drier and more sensitive skin then this one would be a great choice for you. The aloe extract provides hydration and soothes irritated skin. 

 

Despite the creamy texture, this sun cream is readily absorbed and didn't feel sticky. This is both a physical and chemical sunscreen and I feel that this offers a good amount of protection from the sun. My skin didn't darken or burn while using this under the sun.

 

Additionally, this soothing sunscreen didn't disturb any makeup on top and didn't cause pilling. It also didn't leave any white cast and didn't sting my eyes.

Swatch: COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

Overall, COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is a great choice if you want a moisturizing, soothing, and gentle sunscreen. The physical and chemical sunscreen formula is absorbed into the skin fast. It feels lightweight and non-greasy despite the creamy texture. Personally, I prefer to use this sunscreen during the colder season when I need extra hydration, otherwise on humid days, I feel that this is too moisturizing for my oily-combination skin.

Pros:

- Lightweight and absorbs well

- Moisturizing and nourishing yet non-greasy

- Non-sticky and soothing formula

- Maximum broad spectrum protection and high SPF

- Doesn't disturb makeup, does not pill

- No white cast

- Affordable

Cons:

- Can feel heavy during humid days

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

Ingredients: Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Isoamyl P-Methoxycinnamate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Alcohol,Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Titanium Dioxide, C14-22 Alcohols, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Peg-100 Stearate, Silica, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Triethanolamine Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ - "Relief Sun is a lightweight and creamy type organic sunscreen that's comfortable on skin. Even if you apply a large amount several times, it is not sticky and gives a moist finish like that of a light moisturizing cream. Containing 30% rice extract and grain fermented extracts, it provides moisture and nourishment to the skin. " Net Vol. 50ml (1.69 fl.oz.) /  $18.00 via beautyofjoseon.com

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++

Of late, Beauty of Joseon has been making a mark in the K-Beauty scene. One of their most popular product is their sunscreen - Relief Sun: Rice and Probiotics.

 

Benefits:

- Lightweight cream texture It is similar to a light moisturizing cream, and it is not sticky or slippery even if you apply it several times. After absorption, it provides a natural glow without a white cast. Even if you apply a large amount before makeup, it does not clump or get cakey. 

- Rice extract 30% + Grain fermented extracts Rice and grain fermented extracts are rich in vitamins B, C, and E, amino acids, and minerals which help to moisturize dry skin and comfortably calm the skin.  

- SPF & PA Protection SPF and PA tests were completed in labs in both Korea and Spain.

How to use: At the last step of the skincare routine, evenly spread a generous amount over areas vulnerable to sun exposure.

 

This sunscreen comes in a minimalist tube with a twist-off cap. This makes it easy to carry around. The times I had it in my bag, I didn't experience any leakage. The plastic tube feels sturdy, handy, and travel-friendly.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics claims to moisturize and calm the skin as well as superior SPF and PA protection. It also boasts of being non-sticky and providing a natural glow without the white cast. I will say that this sunscreen delivers on these promises and more.

 

What I really love about this sunblock is that it is truly lightweight even when applied on several layers. The formula feels watery so it can be spread easily and absorbed readily. This sunscreen provides an ample amount of hydration and nourishment and has a soothing effect which is great for sensitive skin.

 

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics uses new generation sunscreen agents Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb M. This gives maximum protection against UVA and UVB rays, SPF 50+ PA++++. (Read my brief intro on sun protection HERE). I would think that this high sun protection would be adequate for outdoor activities or water activities as long as you reapply every few hours.

 

On top of sun protection benefits, I have also seen skin-brightening benefits due to the niacinamide and several extracts (including rice extract, ginseng root, soybean ferment, and pumpkin ferment). Into my fourth week of use, I have noticed that some pimple marks are less visible and had lightened and my skin tone has evened out significantly. There was no visible white cast. My face didn't turn red and blotchy and my makeup stayed put on top of this sunscreen.

 

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++

Overall, Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics is one of my go-to sunscreens of late. This organic sunscreen feels lightweight, hydrating, and nourishing. It is absorbed readily and doesn't feel greasy even when you apply several layers of it. This also has a brightening and soothing effect. In addition, this doesn't separate or pile underneath makeup and doesn't leave any white cast. More importantly, it provides maximum sun protection and is affordable enough for me to not feel guilty about using this every day. Personally, this has been my staple daily sunscreen for over a month now and I have gladly repurchased several tubes.

 

Pros:

- Lightweight and absorbs well

- Moisturizing and nourishing yet non-greasy

- Non-sticky and feels very comfortable

- Skin-lightening effect with regular use

- Doesn't disturb makeup, does not pile

- Maximum broad spectrum protection and high SPF 

- Glowy finish

- Affordable

Cons:

- None

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++

Ingredients: Water, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract (30%), Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Niacinamide, Methylene Bis-benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Coco-caprylate/Caprate, Caprylyl Methicone, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Monascus/Rice Ferment, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol,Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Aspergillus Ferment, Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate

Sneak Peek: Korean Sunscreen | Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics, Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk, and CosRx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream.

Korean Sunscreens (L-R): CosRx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream, Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk, and Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics

By now, we are all aware of how important it is to wear sun protection daily, even when it doesn't look sunny or you're only inside the house. The sun's rays are everywhere and can still affect your skin wherever you go, even indoors.

Sunscreens are a must if you want to prevent sun damage and keep your skin healthy. Wearing SPF regularly will help prevent dark spots, skin discoloration, fine lines, and skin cancer. I find that K-beauty offers a great range of sunscreen options that are quite affordable. Price is an important factor for me because for sunscreen to be effective, you have to apply it generously and regularly. Here are currently three K-beauty sunscreens in my daily rotation:

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++)

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++)

"Fitted with broad-spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ to fend off UVA and UVB rays, this organic Beauty of Joseon sunscreen comes in a lightweight and quick-absorbent texture that doesn’t leave a white cast. Additional ingredients of rice extract and grain-derived probiotics help keep skin supple and hydrated. Formulated without oxybenzone, octinoxate, and animal-derived ingredients, the Relief Sun is suitable for sensitive skin."

 

This sunscreen is a recent discovery as I try out more products from Beauty of Joseon. Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics has been a viral sensation and for good reason. This organic sunscreen feels lightweight yet nourishing. It absorbs readily and doesn't feel greasy. It also has a soothing effect which is great for sensitive skin. Also, this doesn't separate or pile underneath makeup and doesn't leave a white cast. More importantly, it is affordable enough for me to not feel guilty about using this every day.

Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF 50+ PA+++

"Protect skin against the harmful effects of UV rays with this broad-spectrum sun milk. Packed with nourishing ingredients like apricot, lotus, chrysanthemum, and thanaka tree extracts, the SPF 50+ PA++++ sunscreen moisturizes and soothes skin without leaving a sticky feeling. Apply to face and body at the last step of skincare."

Missha's All-Around Safe Block sunscreens come in various types. This essence variant has the most lightweight formula of the three, it feels almost like a gel. This sunscreen is non-sticky and feels refreshing and cooling. Additionally, the flower extracts are readily absorbed and moisturize and nourish the skin. This sunscreen is perfect for those with oily-combination skin and is also priced reasonably.

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++

"Sun cream protects skin against UVA and UVB rays with SPF 50+ PA+++ from a combination of chemical and physical sunscreens. Enriched with 55000ppm of aloe vera leaf extract to soothe moisturize and nourish the skin. The fast-absorbing texture doesn't leave a white cast or greasy finish and won't stain clothing. Clinically proven to be hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin. Can be used on the face and body."

 

I bought several tubes of this sunscreen from COSRX and for months, this has been my go-to daily sun protection. This one has the creamiest formula of the three so it can feel a bit heavy for those with oily skin. However, if you have drier and more sensitive skin then this one would be a great choice for you. The aloe extract provides hydration and soothes the skin. Currently, I am just using this one on my body as I find it to be too creamy on my face.

Korean Sunscreen | Beauty of Joseon, Missha, CosRx

Belo SunExpert Whitening Sunscreen SPF50 PA++ - "Belo SunExpert Whitening Sunscreen is our go-to everyday sunscreen for lightweight sun protection that brightens skin with continued use. A multi-benefit cream that whitens and protects skin." Net Vol 50ml | Php 375

Nivea Sun UV Face BB Cream - "Moisturizing, tinted face sunscreen that adapts to every skin tone and leaves skin feeling non greasy & non-sticky. This BB cream uses broad-spectrum sun protection and antioxidants to help protect skin against sun damage and premature ageing. The formula is light and suitable for everyday use." Net Wt. 50ml | Php 329 via www.nivea.ph

Vitress Hair Polish Sun Protect - "Give any hairstyle that perfect finishing touch only with Vitress Hair Polish. Keep your hair looking sleek and glossy as Vitress Hair Polish helps tame frizz and smooth down flyaway hair without the sticky feel. Vitress Hair Polish Sun Protect with its Sun Defense System keeps hair protected from the damaging rays of the sun so it stays healthy; shiny and silky smooth anytime; anywhere. Time to say goodbye to bad hair days." Net Wt. 100 ml | Php 54.00 via www.splash.com.ph

Etude House Sunprise Must Daily SPF 50+ PA+++ - "A gel type smooth sun lotion that protects from UV and improves skin defensive power with Vitamin D. Dwarf ground sedge extract and VitaDmax to protect skin. Acai berry and Acerola to reinforce vitality of skin. Aloe Vera and Linden flower to hydrate skin." Net Wt. 50g / 1.76oz | Php 500+ in stores - via www.etudehouse.com

Kojie San Sunblock Face SPF 50 PA+++ - -"Has a broad spectrum of protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays to prevent sunburn and premature skin ageing. It contains SUNACTYL, a natural ingredient, which helps repair sun damaged skin. Infused with caring ingredients such as Shea Butter and Vitamin E to help nourish and smoothen skin." - Net Wt. 50g, Php 269 via www.kojiesan.com

DrGL Sun Protection Lip in Sweet Pink - "Awarded Her World Editors’ Choice Award 2012.Compared to the rest of the face the skin on lips is extra thin, making them especially vulnerable to the sun and other environmental factors like the cold and wind. Give lips the extra care they need with this creamy formula that offers color, moisture and SPF20 protection in one glossy tube." 3.8g | SGD48.00 - via drgl.com

Sunkiller Super Lasting Base 50+ SPF50 PA++++ - "This tinted Japanese makeup base has SPF50 protection against skin aging UV rays and uses a blend of hyaluronic acid and collagen to hydrate skin. No worries on looking unnaturally pale upon application because of its natural beige tint. It’s lightweight and keeps skin smooth and matte for 8 hours for longer lasting makeup." via bdjbox.com