Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++
Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight hybrid sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA+++ protection, enriched with 5,500ppm Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract to soothe and hydrate skin while shielding against UVA and UVB rays. Feels like a moisturizer, absorbs quickly, and leaves no white cast.
Broad-Spectrum UV Defense
Five UV filters (4 chemical + 1 physical) work together to shield against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays with SPF 50+ PA+++ protection.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad-Spectrum UV Defense
Five UV filters (4 chemical + 1 physical) work together to shield against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays with SPF 50+ PA+++ protection.
Aloe-Infused Soothing
5,500ppm Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract calms and hydrates skin while forming a protective moisture barrier throughout the day.
Moisturizer-Like Feel
Glycerin, butylene glycol, and dimethicone create a hydrating base that feels like a light moisturizer rather than a traditional sunscreen.
No White Cast
Despite containing titanium dioxide (physical filter), the formula is designed to blend seamlessly without leaving a visible white cast on any skin tone.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters (Octinoxate, Ensulizole, Amiloxate) that are absorbed systemically. Some dermatologists recommend mineral-only sunscreens during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains 4 potential triggers: Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, and PEG-100 Stearate — fatty acids and esters that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Very low likelihood of clogging pores. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly and most users report no breakouts with consistent use.
COSRX is certified cruelty-free by Cruelty-Free Kitty. No animal testing at any stage of production. Parent company is also cruelty-free.
Contains added fragrance (parfum) and denatured alcohol. While most users tolerate it well, those with very reactive or sensitized skin should patch test first.
Clinically proven to be hypoallergenic. Suitable for sensitive skin types when patch tested. Free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Arborescens Leaf Extract 5,500ppmProven
A species of aloe prized in Korean skincare for its soothing and moisturizing properties. At 5,500ppm, it serves as the hero botanical in this formula, helping to calm irritation and reinforce the skin's moisture barrier.
- Function: Soothes inflammation, hydrates, and supports skin barrier repair
- Research: Aloe compounds have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and wound-healing activity in multiple clinical studies
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S) ~2.2–2.7%Proven
A next-generation broad-spectrum UV filter that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Considered one of the most effective and photostable sunscreen agents available, though not yet approved by the FDA for use in the US market.
- Spectrum: Broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB), highly photostable
- Safety: Does not show estrogenic activity unlike some older chemical filters
- Research: A 2007 EU comparative study ranked it highest in SPF protection among 18 tested sunscreen agents
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) ~5.4–6.6%Proven
One of the most widely used UVB filters in the world. Provides strong protection against sunburn-causing rays. Works best when combined with photostabilizers like Tinosorb S.
- Spectrum: UVB protection (280–320nm range)
- Note: Can degrade under sunlight (loses ~10% efficacy within 35 min alone), but is stabilized in this formula by Tinosorb S
Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid (Ensulizole) ~2.6–3.2%Proven
A water-soluble UVB filter that contributes to the formula's light, non-greasy texture. Commonly used in Korean and European sunscreen formulations for its elegant feel on skin.
- Spectrum: Strong UVB protection
- Benefit: Water-soluble, which helps create lightweight, non-oily formulas
Titanium Dioxide Mineral filterProven
A physical (mineral) UV filter that reflects and scatters UV rays. Adds broad-spectrum protection and boosts the formula's overall SPF. Coated with aluminum hydroxide for stability.
- Spectrum: Broad-spectrum UVB + partial UVA protection
- Safety: Considered one of the safest sunscreen filters; not absorbed into skin
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root) SupportingPromising
Derived from licorice root, this ingredient provides anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-brightening benefits. Helps calm UV-induced redness and supports an even skin tone.
- Research: Contains glabridin which blocks UVB-induced pigmentation
- Benefit: Liquiritin compound helps lighten hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) SupportingProven
A stable form of Vitamin E that functions as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from free radical damage caused by UV exposure. Also helps condition and soften the skin.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, skin conditioning, and moisture retention
- Synergy: Enhances the photoprotective effects of sunscreen filters
45 ingredients
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Isoamyl P-Methoxycinnamate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Alcohol, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Titanium Dioxide, C14-22 Alcohols, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Triethanolamine, Silica, Sodium Hydroxide, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Fragrance, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Limonene, Tocopheryl Acetate, Disodium EDTA, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Benzyl Salicylate, Geraniol, Benzyl Alcohol, Citronellol, Benzyl Benzoate, Citral
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup. Hydrating enough to replace your AM moisturizer in humid climates. Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure.
How to use
HOW TO USEComplete Your Morning Skincare
Cleanse, tone, and apply serum and/or moisturizer. Allow each layer to absorb fully before proceeding.
Dispense a Generous Amount
Squeeze approximately a nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) for the face. Use more for neck and exposed areas.
Apply Evenly 30 Minutes Before Sun Exposure
Gently spread the cream across your face and neck in upward strokes. Do not rub aggressively — pat to set. Apply 30 minutes before going outdoors for optimal protection.
Reapply Every 2 Hours
Reapply throughout the day as needed, especially during prolonged sun exposure, after sweating, or after toweling off.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a moisturizing sunscreen that doubles as a day cream
- You have dry or normal skin that craves hydration
- You want SPF 50+ protection without a white cast
- You prefer a natural/dewy finish over matte
- You like lightweight K-beauty formulations
- You are on a tretinoin or retinol routine and need a soothing SPF
- You want an affordable, travel-friendly sunscreen
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains 4 triggers
- You are pregnant and prefer mineral-only sunscreens
- You strongly dislike any fragrance in skincare
- You need a fully waterproof or sweatproof formula
- You prefer a completely matte finish for very oily skin
- You are sensitive to alcohol (denatured) in formulas
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAbsorbs quickly and doesn't feel greasy, but the dewy finish may add unwanted shine. Set with translucent powder for a matte look.
Ideal match. The hydrating formula with glycerin, aloe, and dimethicone provides lasting moisture. Many users skip their AM moisturizer when using this.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming the T-zone. Works beautifully under makeup.
Clinically tested hypoallergenic and well-tolerated by most. Contains fragrance and alcohol — patch test if extremely reactive.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and most users report no breakouts. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to fatty acid/ester content.
Results timeline
6+ MONTHSInstant Hydration & Protection
Skin feels moisturized and soft immediately after application. UV protection is active within 30 minutes. No visible white cast.
95% noticedImproved Skin Comfort
Daily use reduces sun-related dryness and tightness. Skin looks healthier with a natural, hydrated glow. Redness from UV exposure begins to calm.
80% noticedVisible Sun Damage Prevention
Consistent use prevents new dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Existing sun spots may begin to fade as skin is shielded from further UV damage. Skin tone appears more even.
70% noticedLong-Term Anti-Aging Benefits
Daily broad-spectrum SPF use is the most effective anti-aging strategy. Prevents photoaging signs including fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity caused by UVA rays.
85% noticedRatings by platform
9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- No white cast on any skin tone, including deeper complexions
- Doubles as a moisturizer — hydrating enough to skip AM cream
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly
- Excellent SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection with advanced UV filters
- Pleasant, fresh aloe scent that fades quickly
- Layers well under makeup without pilling
- Affordable price point for the quality of UV protection
- Travel-friendly 50ml tube fits easily in any bag
Criticized
- 50ml size runs out fast with proper daily application
- Contains added fragrance — may irritate very sensitive noses
- Thicker cream texture than some lightweight K-beauty sunscreens
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- Contains alcohol which may concern some users
- Dewy finish can look shiny on very oily skin without powder
- Not water-resistant — needs reapplication after sweating
- PA+++ instead of the maximum PA++++ UVA rating
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESLighter, more silky texture with no white cast. Adds niacinamide and rice extract for brightening. Higher PA++++ UVA rating. Lacks the aloe soothing benefit but better under makeup. Chemical-only filters.
Watery serum texture instead of cream. Features centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid for calming and hydration. PA++++ rating. Better for oily skin but less moisturizing for dry types.
Reformulated after the 2020 SPF controversy with improved protection. Fragrance-free and lighter feel. PA++++ UVA protection. Less moisturizing than COSRX but better for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed. Avoid temperatures above 30°C (86°F) to preserve UV filter stability.
Plastic squeeze tube with screw cap. Minimal, clinical design. Recyclable packaging.
Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in any travel bag or purse.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This sunscreen contains chemical UV filters — Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate), Ensulizole, and Amiloxate — that can be absorbed through the skin. While no human studies have confirmed harm, some dermatologists recommend using mineral-only sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide only) during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist for personalized advice.
No. This product contains at least 4 ingredients that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast: Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, and PEG-100 Stearate. These are fatty acids and esters known to promote fungal acne growth. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider alternatives like SKIN1004 Centella Hyalu-Cica Sun Serum, which is Malassezia-safe.
Yes, and you absolutely should! Retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs all increase sun sensitivity, making SPF 50+ protection essential. Apply your actives first (retinol at night, vitamin C in the AM), let them absorb, then apply this sunscreen as the final step in your morning routine. This sunscreen's aloe and licorice root ingredients actually help soothe skin that may be sensitized by active ingredients.
This sunscreen works best for dry, normal, and combination skin types. Its hydrating, cream-like formula with glycerin, aloe, and dimethicone provides lasting moisture that dry skin especially loves. Oily skin types can still use it but may want to set it with powder to control shine. It is clinically tested hypoallergenic, making it suitable for most sensitive skin as well.
You will feel the hydrating and soothing benefits immediately upon application. UV protection is active within 30 minutes. After 1–2 weeks of daily use, you should notice improved skin comfort and reduced dryness. Within 1–3 months, consistent use helps prevent new dark spots and evens skin tone. Long-term daily use (6+ months) is the most effective anti-aging strategy available.
Always apply sunscreen as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, right before makeup. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum/Essence → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (this product) → Makeup. In humid climates or summer, you can skip your moisturizer and use this sunscreen alone since it is hydrating enough to double as a day cream.
This sunscreen has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, which means it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. The vast majority of users — including those with acne-prone skin — report no breakouts. However, individual results may vary. If you have extremely clog-prone skin, do a patch test on your jawline for a few days before applying it to your full face.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use the product within one year for optimal effectiveness and UV protection. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. UV filters can degrade over time, so do not use expired sunscreen as it may not provide adequate protection.
Verdict: The COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++ is a well-formulated, affordable hybrid sunscreen that excels at keeping skin hydrated and protected. Its blend of five UV filters — including the advanced Tinosorb S — delivers reliable broad-spectrum protection, while 5,500ppm of aloe extract provides genuine soothing benefits. It is ideal for dry, normal, and combination skin types who want a moisturizing, no-white-cast SPF that feels like skincare. Points are deducted for containing fragrance, alcohol, not being fungal acne safe, and having a PA+++ rather than PA++++ UVA rating. Still, for its price-to-performance ratio and elegant daily-wear texture, it remains one of the most popular K-beauty sunscreens for good reason.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 6 |
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|





