Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++
Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, hydrating chemical sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ protection, enriched with 30% rice extract and a fermented grain probiotic complex. Clinically tested in labs in South Korea and Spain for broad-spectrum UV defense, this viral K-beauty sunscreen absorbs like a moisturizer with zero white cast.
Quad-Filter Broad Spectrum Protection
Uses 4 next-gen chemical UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S, Iscotrizinol) verified in labs in Korea (SPF 52.5) and Spain (SPF 63.1) for reliable UVA+UVB defense.
Texture & feel
SENSORYQuad-Filter Broad Spectrum Protection
Uses 4 next-gen chemical UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S, Iscotrizinol) verified in labs in Korea (SPF 52.5) and Spain (SPF 63.1) for reliable UVA+UVB defense.
30% Rice Extract Nourishment
Rich in vitamins B, C, E, amino acids, and minerals. Inspired by the Joseon Dynasty tradition of using rice bran water as a "Beauty Water" for brighter, moisturized skin.
Fermented Grain Probiotic Complex
A blend of Lactobacillus/Pumpkin, Bacillus/Soybean, Monascus/Rice, and Saccharomyces/Rice ferments work synergistically to calm, soothe, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Niacinamide Brightening
Vitamin B3 regulates sebum production, fades dark spots, and improves overall skin texture. A multi-tasking powerhouse for all skin types.
Makeup-Friendly Base
Zero white cast chemical formula that layers seamlessly under makeup without pilling, clumping, or patchiness. Works as a hydrating primer.
Reef-Friendly & Cruelty-Free
Formulated without oxybenzone and octinoxate to help protect coral reefs. Not tested on animals and vegan-friendly.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. Uses newer-generation chemical UV filters considered safe during pregnancy. The brand confirms pregnant women can use this sunscreen, though hormonal changes may increase skin sensitivity.
Contains multiple fermented ingredients (Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment, Bacillus/Soybean Ferment, Monascus/Rice Ferment, Aspergillus Ferment) plus Coco-Caprylate/Caprate and Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate that can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have confirmed fungal acne.
Free from heavy comedogenic oils, cocoa butter, and isopropyl myristate. Clinically proven suitable for acne-prone skin in a study on 21 subjects over 3 days by Korea Institute of Dermatological Sciences.
Clinically proven to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing in a study conducted by Cosmeservice on 50 subjects over three weeks. Suitable for sensitive skin types.
No added fragrance, essential oils, or synthetic perfumes. Only a very faint, subtle scent from the natural rice and botanical ingredients.
Uses European/Asian-approved UV filters not available in the US or Canada (Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S, Iscotrizinol). These are photostable, next-generation filters with excellent safety profiles.
This is an everyday sunscreen, not a sports or beach formula. Not suitable for swimming, intense sweating, or prolonged outdoor activities. Reapply every 2–3 hours during regular daily wear.
No parabens, sulfates, common allergens, heavy alcohols (drying), or mineral oil. Formulated with EWG-certified and skin-soothing ingredients.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSOryza Sativa (Rice) Extract 30%Proven
The star ingredient of this sunscreen. Rice bran extract has been used in Korean beauty rituals since the Joseon Dynasty as a natural "Beauty Water." Rich in vitamins B, C, E, amino acids, and minerals, it provides deep hydration and antioxidant protection.
- Brightening: Contains gamma oryzanol which inhibits tyrosinase activity, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation and even skin tone.
- Moisturizing: Amino acids and minerals help hydrate dry skin and reinforce the moisture barrier.
- Antioxidant: Polyphenolic compounds (anthocyanins) provide anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2%Proven
A multi-functional skincare powerhouse that regulates sebum production, fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, improves skin barrier function, and minimizes pores.
- Sebum Control: Studies show niacinamide at 2% reduces sebum excretion rate within 2–4 weeks of use.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, reducing dark spots and uneven skin tone.
- Barrier Repair: Increases ceramide and fatty acid production in the skin, strengthening the moisture barrier.
Quad UV Filter SystemProven
Four next-generation chemical (organic) UV filters provide photostable, broad-spectrum UVA+UVB protection. These are newer European/Asian-approved filters with excellent safety and efficacy profiles.
- Uvinul A Plus (DHHB): High UVA protection across the full UVA range (320–400nm), peak at 354nm. Up to 10% concentration allowed.
- Uvinul T 150 (Ethylhexyl Triazone): Highest photostable UVB absorption of all available filters today (280–320nm, peak 314nm). Water-resistant.
- Tinosorb S (Bemotrizinol): Covers both UVA and UVB with dual peak absorption at 310nm and 340nm. Excellent photostability.
- Iscotrizinol (Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone): Ultra-photostable UVB/UVA II filter effective at low concentrations. Highly oil-soluble.
Fermented Grain Probiotic ComplexPromising
A synergistic blend of multiple fermented extracts that work together to soothe, calm, and strengthen the skin barrier by supporting the skin microbiome.
- Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract: Mild exfoliant properties, rich in enzymes and amino acids that help brighten and smooth skin.
- Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract: Rich in isoflavones, provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Monascus/Rice Ferment & Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate: Antioxidant-rich ferments that help brighten skin tone.
- Aspergillus Ferment: Supports skin barrier function and hydration.
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf ExtractProven
A potent antioxidant that protects against environmental damage and free radicals. Rich in polyphenols (EGCG) that provide anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits.
- Antioxidant: EGCG is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, helping neutralize UV-induced free radical damage.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms irritated skin.
Panax Ginseng Root ExtractPromising
A traditional Korean herbal (Hanbang) ingredient prized for its anti-aging and skin-revitalizing properties. Contains ginsenosides that help boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity.
- Anti-Aging: Ginsenosides stimulate collagen synthesis and help reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- Emollient: Helps soften and smooth the skin while providing mild antioxidant benefits.
42 ingredients
Aqua, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol (Nano), Niacinamide, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Caprylyl Methicone, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Oryza Sativa Extract, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, T-Butyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Oryza Sativa Germ Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aspergillus Ferment, Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Cocos Nucifera Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract, Monascus/Rice Ferment, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate, Saccharum Officinarum Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup. For oily skin, you may skip moisturizer and use this sunscreen alone. Reapply every 2–3 hours for continuous protection.
How to use
HOW TO USEComplete Your Skincare Routine
Cleanse, tone, and apply serums and moisturizer as usual. For oily skin, you can skip moisturizer as this sunscreen provides adequate hydration.
Apply Generously
Squeeze about two finger-lengths of product. Dot across forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Spread evenly over entire face, neck, and ears. Do not rub in too aggressively.
Wait Before Makeup
Allow 15–30 minutes for full absorption and UV filter activation before applying makeup or heading outside. The lightweight formula dries down quickly to a natural glow.
Reapply Throughout the Day
Reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors, or immediately after sweating or towel-drying. For indoor/office use, reapply once at midday for optimal protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a lightweight, moisturizing daily sunscreen
- You need high SPF with zero white cast
- You have normal, dry, combination, or sensitive skin
- You want a sunscreen that doubles as a hydrating base under makeup
- You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulas
- You want nourishing skincare benefits beyond UV protection
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe SPF option
- You are on a budget but want high-performance sun protection
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You need water-resistant sunscreen for sports or swimming
- You prefer a matte, shine-free finish (try the Aqua-Fresh version instead)
- You have very oily skin and want oil control (try Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5)
- You need mineral/physical sunscreen only (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide)
- You live in the US/Canada and want FDA-approved filters only
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Provides hydration and a natural glow without being too heavy or too light. Works beautifully as a standalone moisturizer + SPF in warmer months.
The 30% rice extract and moisturizing base deliver deep hydration. Layer over a rich moisturizer like Dynasty Cream for best results in very dry climates.
Works well overall but the dewy finish may add shine to the T-zone by afternoon. Blotting papers or setting powder help. Consider the Aqua-Fresh version for a lighter feel.
May feel too dewy and cause midday shine in humid weather. The brand recommends the Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 instead, which was specifically designed for oily skin.
Fragrance-free and clinically proven non-irritating on 50 subjects. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin, as chemical UV filters may cause sensitivity in rare cases.
Clinically proven suitable for acne-prone skin. Low comedogenic rating (1/5). However, NOT safe for fungal acne due to fermented ingredients. Great for hormonal/cystic acne types.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Hydration & UV Protection
Skin feels instantly moisturized, comfortable, and protected. The lightweight cream absorbs quickly with a natural glow and zero white cast. Makeup layers smoothly on top.
95% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Skin Comfort & Texture
Skin feels softer and more nourished from the rice extract and probiotic complex. Dryness and tightness are reduced. You start to notice a more even, healthy-looking base.
80% noticed softer skin textureVisible Brightening & Tone Evening
Niacinamide and rice extract begin to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Overall skin tone appears brighter and more even. Existing dark spots start to lighten with consistent daily use and SPF protection.
70% noticed brighter skin toneLong-Term UV Damage Prevention
Consistent SPF 50+ PA++++ use prevents new sun spots, premature aging, and UV-induced collagen breakdown. Skin barrier is strengthened by the probiotic complex. Cumulative brightening effects become more pronounced.
85% reported healthier-looking skinRatings by platform
68K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally lightweight, feels like a moisturizer
- Zero white cast on all skin tones
- High SPF 50+ PA++++ verified by two independent labs
- Affordable price point (~$15–18 for 50ml)
- Layers beautifully under makeup without pilling
- Fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Nourishing 30% rice extract with real skincare benefits
- 4 next-gen photostable UV filters for reliable protection
- No stinging in the eyes
Criticized
- Small 50ml tube runs out fast with proper reapplication
- Dewy finish can be too shiny for very oily skin
- Not water-resistant — unsuitable for sports or swimming
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe due to ferments
- UV filters not approved in the US/Canada (FDA regulated)
- Can pill if layered over certain silicone-heavy products
- Some find the finish dull in certain lighting conditions
- No physical/mineral filter option for those who prefer zinc
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso manufactured by Kolmar in South Korea with an almost identical lightweight, moisturizing texture. Uses birch juice instead of rice extract for hydration. Very similar finish and feel — Korea's #1 domestic sunscreen bestseller.
Even cheaper J-beauty alternative with a watery, ultra-light gel texture. Zero white cast and great under makeup. Less moisturizing and fewer skincare actives than the Beauty of Joseon, but excellent for oily skin types on a tight budget.
Focuses on centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid instead of rice and probiotics. More soothing and barrier-repairing focus. Lighter, more serum-like texture. Fungal acne safe option for those who cannot use fermented products.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEBeauty of Joseon Relief Sun
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving in hot cars or bathrooms with high humidity. Expiry date printed on packaging.
Plastic squeeze tube with screw-off cap. Practical, hygienic, and easy to control the amount dispensed.
Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in any travel pouch or handbag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This sunscreen is free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate — the ingredients most commonly flagged for pregnancy concerns. It uses newer-generation chemical UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S, Uvinul T 150, Iscotrizinol) that are considered safe during pregnancy. The brand itself confirms that pregnant women can use this product, though they note that hormonal changes during pregnancy may make skin more sensitive than usual, so a patch test is recommended.
No. This sunscreen contains multiple fermented ingredients (Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Monascus/Rice Ferment, Aspergillus Ferment, Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate) as well as Coco-Caprylate/Caprate and Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, which can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger or worsen fungal acne. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider the Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel or SKIN1004 Centella Water-Fit Sun Serum as fungal-acne-safe alternatives.
Yes, absolutely. In fact, sunscreen is essential when using any of these actives. Retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs all increase photosensitivity, making SPF even more critical. Apply your active ingredients in the appropriate step of your routine (vitamin C in the morning before SPF, retinol at night, AHA/BHA per product instructions), then apply this sunscreen as the final step of your morning routine. The niacinamide in this formula also pairs well with vitamin C despite the popular myth — they complement each other.
This sunscreen is best suited for normal, dry, and combination skin types. The moisturizing, dewy formula with 30% rice extract provides excellent hydration for dry skin. For oily skin, the brand recommends their Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 version instead, which has a lighter, less dewy finish specifically designed for oil-prone skin. It is also clinically proven suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin (non-fungal acne).
UV protection is immediate upon application. You will feel hydration and skin comfort from the first use. Brightening effects from the niacinamide and rice extract typically become noticeable after 4–6 weeks of consistent daily use. Long-term benefits like prevention of sun spots, premature aging, and improved skin barrier function accumulate over months of regular use. Remember, sunscreen is primarily a prevention product — the most dramatic results are the damage you avoid.
This sunscreen should be the last step of your morning skincare routine, applied after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer — and before makeup. Apply at least 15–30 minutes before sun exposure. For oily skin types, you may skip moisturizer entirely and use this sunscreen as your final hydration step, as it is moisturizing enough on its own. Reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors.
This sunscreen has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is free from heavily comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and isopropyl myristate. It has been clinically proven suitable for acne-prone skin by the Korea Institute of Dermatological Sciences. However, as with any product, individual reactions vary. If you are extremely breakout-prone, do a patch test on your jawline for 48 hours before full-face application.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once you open the tube, use it within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The expiry date is also printed on the packaging box. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With proper daily application (two finger-lengths for the face), a 50ml tube typically lasts 4–6 weeks, so most users will finish it well before the 12-month PAO limit.
Verdict: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics is one of the best-value daily sunscreens on the market. For under $18, you get lab-verified SPF 50+ PA++++ protection from four photostable UV filters, genuine skincare benefits from 30% rice extract and niacinamide, and a texture so lightweight it feels like a moisturizer with zero white cast. It is ideal for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types looking for affordable, elegant sun protection that doubles as hydrating skincare. The only notable drawbacks are its lack of water resistance (not for sports or beach), unsuitability for fungal acne-prone skin due to fermented ingredients, and a dewy finish that may be too shiny for very oily skin. For oily skin types, the Aqua-Fresh version is a better match. Overall, the hype is well deserved — this is a sunscreen that earns its viral status through genuine performance.
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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Dibutyl Adipate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Opacifying
|
|







