Introducing the rule of SPF three, I recently found myself bombarded with a series of compelling recommendations that I was overlooking one of the most popular sunscreens of the season—the Beauty of Joseon SPF.
While I was aware of its existence and stellar reputation, I had yet to experience its sun-protecting prowess firsthand. Despite my usual enthusiasm for trying different sunscreens, I had somehow missed out on this particular gem.
“I’m absolutely obsessed with Beauty of Joseon,” Alicia Hannah-Kim, a talented actress from the Emmy-nominated series Cobra Kai on Netflix, shared with me during a recent Zoom call. “Their new serum is a game-changer. I use it religiously every day. You have to give it a try.”
Concurrently, a close friend echoed similar sentiments, insisting that I try it as well. “It’s like silk on your skin. I can’t believe you haven’t experienced it yet. You need to try it.”
And then came the clincher—the data that spoke volumes beyond mere trends or recommendations: Impressive statistics from Spate revealed that Beauty of Joseon had seen a significant increase of +77.3 percent in average monthly search volume year-over-year.
What sets this K-Beauty SPF apart?
First and foremost, the brand offers a variety of SPF options, all of which are exceptional and suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin.
The Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics ($18) boasts an impressive SPF 50, providing a hydrating, non-sticky formula that imparts a radiant glow. The key ingredient of rice and grain fermented extracts is a source of pride for the brand. (Fun fact: Rice bran water was used as a toner in the Joseon Dynasty and was known as “Beauty Water,” inspiring the company’s name.)
“The best sunscreen is the one you use daily, and this is the first one that I genuinely enjoy using,” shared one satisfied customer. “It’s light, hydrating, absorbs quickly, and keeps my skin protected even after a day out in the sun. Plus, it’s affordable enough for me to apply generously without breaking the bank. My only suggestion would be to offer larger tubes, as I go through one every three weeks or so.”
Another standout with SPF 50 is the Matte Sun Stick : Mugwort+Camelia ($18), which features a sebum-control silica powder to regulate oil production. Packed with artemisia capillaris and green tea extracts, this stick helps smooth skin texture. “This sunscreen stick is amazing!” exclaimed a delighted user. “It’s convenient for travel, has a pleasant scent, and absorbs quickly into the skin. We always have it on hand at home.”
Then there’s the Ginseng Moist Sun Serum ($21). This serum offers a “moist and fresh” finish, boasting an incredibly lightweight texture that feels like air on the skin. The brand’s historical inspiration behind the ingredients adds an intriguing touch: Hwang Jini, renowned as the most beautiful woman in the Joseon Dynasty, used a ginseng decoction in her bathwater. The rich saponin in ginseng helps deliver moisture to the skin.
“This sunscreen is a daily essential for me,” shared another reviewer. “It feels more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen, but it definitely gets the job done! I usually burn easily, but during my recent trip to Ireland where I spent a lot of time outdoors, I didn’t experience any redness or irritation thanks to this product. And the best part? I barely even notice I’m wearing it.”