I tried this €18 Korean sunscreen that went viral on TikTok: it replaced my day cream all summer long
Korean sunscreen has become a staple in French beauty routines, and one product in particular has been making waves for several months. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is racking up positive reviews on TikTok, but does it really live up to its reputation? We tested it to find out.
Why Use Sunscreen All Year Round
UV rays don’t take a break. In winter and summer alike, they damage the skin every day and lead to premature aging. That’s why applying sunscreen every morning is a must, no matter what the weather is like.
However, many people stop using it as soon as the sun goes down. The reason is often the same: thick, greasy textures and those infamous white streaks make application unpleasant. As a result, finding a lightweight, comfortable formula becomes a real challenge.
It’s precisely on TikTok—a platform for beauty enthusiasts—that one product has stood out in recent months. The Korean sunscreen Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is particularly popular there, and for good reason.
Beauty of Joseon, a brand rooted in tradition
Beauty of Joseon was founded in 2016, drawing inspiration from traditional Korean medicine (Hanbang). The brand draws on the Joseon Dynasty encyclopedia, compiled more than 200 years ago, to select its natural ingredients.
Among these botanical treasures isrice extract, the star ingredient in Relief Sun. This deep-rooted connection to tradition sets the brand apart from other players in the K-beauty industry. As a result, each formula reflects a rich and thoughtful skincare heritage.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: A Formula That Stands Out
Relief Sun is one of Beauty of Joseon’s best-sellers. This sunscreen has an SPF of 50+ and offers enhanced protection against UVA and UVB rays. In addition, its formula contains 30% rice extract and probiotics, giving it moisturizing properties similar to those of a day cream.
The brand promises a smooth, luminous, “second-skin” finish, without any greasy film or white residue. This positioning puts it in direct competition with traditional moisturizers. As a result, it can replace your day cream in your morning routine.
“It’s easy to apply, absorbs quickly into the skin, and leaves a luminous matte finish—without making the skin look shiny or leaving white streaks.”
Maxence Collin, who tested it himself, shares this enthusiastic opinion. Thus, two different users have reached the same conclusion: this Korean sunscreen delivers on its promises when it comes to the finish.
How Texture Really Makes a Difference in Everyday Life
Unlike many traditional sunscreens, Relief Sun has the texture of a rich, lightweight, non-sticky moisturizer. No matter how much you apply, it doesn’t feel sticky and absorbs quickly. That’s what surprises people the most when they first try it.
What’s more, it leaves no greasy residue or white cast on the face. For those who are reluctant to wear SPF every day, this is a compelling reason. Its lightweight texture makes it a practical choice, even in hot and humid weather.
- SPF 50+: enhanced protection against UVA and UVB rays.
- 30% rice extract and probiotics: deep hydration.
- Matte, luminous finish: no white streaks or greasy residue.
- Light, creamy texture: absorbs quickly, non-sticky.
- Can be used in place of a day cream; ideal for oily and combination skin.
Our review after testing: Incorporating Relief Sun into your routine
During the test, Relief Sun was applied to clean skin in place of the usual day cream. This approach simplifies the routine, especially in the summer when it’s very hot. Its highly moisturizing formula helps avoid layering on too many products, which can feel uncomfortable in humid weather.
This tip is also ideal for oily and combination skin. The protection remains effective without weighing down the skin or causing shine. Plus, it’s quick and easy to apply, which makes it easy to use consistently.
It is recommended to reapply every 2 to 3 hours to ensure continuous sun protection. This Korean sunscreen therefore fits naturally into your daily beauty routine, both in the morning and in the afternoon. With the UV index currently at level 8, now is the perfect time to make this a habit.
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun meets a real need: that of a Korean sunscreen that moisturizes, protects, and leaves a pleasant finish, without any hassle. Plus, its affordable price— €18 —makes it all the more easy to incorporate into your routine. For anyone looking to simplify their routine while still taking care of their skin, this K-beauty sunscreen definitely deserves a spot on the shelf.
