I tried this €18 Korean sunscreen that went viral on TikTok, and it’s been replacing my day cream all summer long
The Korean sunscreen became the most sought-after skincare product in France in 2026. Among all the sun care products from Korea, one in particular is making waves on TikTok and in beauty routines. Here’s why Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun deserves your full attention.
Why Use Sunscreen All Year Round
UV rays damage the skin in both winter and summer. So even on cloudy or rainy days, the skin remains exposed and ages prematurely. Applying sunscreen every morning is therefore essential—not just in the summer.
Yet many people stop using sunscreen as soon as the sun goes down. The reason is often the same: the greasy texture, white streaks, and sticky residue left by many traditional formulas. As a result, finding a sunscreen that’s comfortable to wear every day really makes all the difference.
Right now, the UV index is at level 8. This further underscores the need for reliable, lightweight sun protection that fits into a quick morning routine.
K-Beauty: A Practical Solution to Texture Issues
Korean skincare has built its reputation precisely on formulas that are both effective and pleasant to wear. K-beauty brands develop ultra-lightweight textures that melt into the skin without leaving any residue. This is exactly what sets them apart from traditional Western sunscreens.
As a result, the Korean sunscreen Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun went viral on TikTok, winning over thousands of beauty enthusiasts. It promised a second-skin finish that was non-greasy, smooth, and luminous. We tested it to see if it lived up to those promises.
Beauty of Joseon: A Brand Rooted in Korean Tradition
Beauty of Joseon was founded in 2016, drawing inspiration from traditional Korean medicine, Hanbang. The brand draws on the Joseon Dynasty encyclopedia, compiled over 200 years ago, to select its natural ingredients. This is where the rice extract found in Relief Sun comes from, among other ingredients.
Furthermore, the brand is fully aligned with the modern K-beauty movement, which combines ancestral heritage with scientific formulation. This positioning gives it strong credibility among consumers looking for a Korean sunscreen that is both effective and gentle on the skin.
Relief Sun is one of the brand’s best-sellers. It offers SPF 50+, providing enhanced protection against UVA and UVB rays. Its formula contains 30% rice extract and probiotics, two ingredients known for deeply hydrating and nourishing the skin.
“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.”
A formula that can be used in place of day cream
Unlike many traditional sunscreens, Relief Sun has the texture of a rich, yet light and non-sticky moisturizer. This is one of its most appealing qualities, regardless of how much you apply. As a result, it fits naturally into a morning routine without adding any extra steps.
During the test, it was applied to clean skin in place of the usual day cream. Its highly moisturizing formula allows it to replace a traditional moisturizer. This helps avoid layering on too many products, which can be uncomfortable in hot, humid weather.
- SPF 50+ protection against UVA and UVB rays
- A formula containing 30% rice extract and probiotics
- Lightweight, non-sticky texture that leaves no white residue or greasy film
- Can be used in place of day cream; ideal for hot weather
- Reapply the product every 2 to 3 hours for continuous protection
Our review after testing: the Korean sunscreen that’s changing the game
Relief Sun impresses from the very first application. Its texture melts into the skin in just a few seconds, leaving no greasy or sticky residue—even when applied generously. It’s one of the easiest sunscreens to apply that we’ve tested. Plus, it leaves a luminous, matte finish without any excessive shine.
This Korean sunscreen is particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin types. It provides effective protection without feeling heavy on the skin, which is rare among SPF 50+ sunscreens. However, those with dry skin will also find it suitable thanks to its high concentration of moisturizing ingredients.
For maximum effectiveness, it is recommended to reapply the product every 2 to 3 hours during prolonged exposure. This requirement applies to all sunscreens, including the best Korean sunscreen formulas on the market.
A sunscreen suitable for your daily routine
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is thus positioned as a versatile product: both sunscreen and moisturizer. Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice first thing in the morning, even for those who aren’t used to incorporating SPF into their routine. As a result, it simplifies your daily skincare routine without compromising on protection.
Now available for around €18 on several platforms, this Korean sunscreen stands out as one of the best values in the skincare aisle. For those looking for a single product that can protect and care for their skin every day, Relief Sun checks all the boxes.
