Round Lab Sunscreen vs Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen

Two Korean sunscreens have taken the skincare world by storm. Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen and Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics sit at the top of every K-beauty wishlist.

Both promise lightweight protection, zero white cast, and skin-loving ingredients. But which one is right for your skin?

If you have been going back and forth between these two cult favorites, you are not alone. Thousands of skincare lovers ask the same question every day. The truth is, both sunscreens are excellent. But they serve different skin types and offer different benefits.

Key Takeaways

• Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen uses birch sap as its hero ingredient. It provides deep hydration and works best for dry and dehydrated skin types. It was ranked the number one facial sunscreen by NBC Select out of over 100 sunscreens tested.
• Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun uses 30% rice extract and grain fermented extracts. It gives skin a soft, dewy glow and suits normal, combination, and sensitive skin types well.
• Both sunscreens offer SPF 50+ PA++++ broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. They both leave zero white cast on the skin and feel lightweight on application.
• Round Lab has a more moisturizing, lotion-like texture that creates a hydration barrier on the skin. Beauty of Joseon has a slightly lighter, creamier feel that sets to a natural, semi-matte finish.
• Both products are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. They are reef-friendly and safe for sensitive skin. Both sunscreens have passed dermatological and skin irritation testing.
• Price points are similar for both products. Your final choice depends on your skin type, your preferred finish, and whether you want more hydration or more brightening benefits from your sunscreen.

Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen Overview

Last update on 2026-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

The Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen has earned a massive following since its launch. NBC Select ranked it the number one facial sunscreen out of more than 100 products tested. That alone speaks volumes about its quality and performance.

This sunscreen uses Inje birch sap as its star ingredient. Birch sap is rich in amino acids, minerals, and vitamins that deeply hydrate the skin. The formula also contains Vita hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which help lock in moisture and brighten the complexion.

The texture feels like a lightweight lotion. It absorbs fast and leaves your skin feeling soft and plump. There is absolutely no greasy residue or heavy feeling after application. The finish looks natural with a subtle glow.

Round Lab designed this sunscreen for people who want their SPF to double as a moisturizing step. If your skin feels tight or dry after sunscreen application, this product solves that problem. It also works well as a makeup base because it does not pill or separate under foundation.

Pros:

• Ranked number one facial sunscreen by NBC Select
• Deep hydration from birch sap and hyaluronic acid
• Zero white cast on all skin tones
• Lightweight lotion texture that absorbs quickly
• Contains niacinamide for brightening
• Reef-safe and eco-friendly formula
• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic

Cons:

• Can feel too moisturizing for very oily skin types
• The 50ml tube runs out fast with daily use
• May feel slightly dewy for those who prefer a matte finish

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Overview

Last update on 2026-06-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!

The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics is one of the most viral Korean sunscreens online. It gained popularity through TikTok and Reddit, and it continues to be a top seller across multiple platforms.

The formula features 30% rice extract combined with grain fermented extracts and probiotics. Rice extract is known for its brightening and soothing properties. It helps even out skin tone and adds a healthy radiance to the skin. The probiotics support a balanced skin barrier.

This sunscreen has a creamy texture that spreads easily across the face. It feels hydrating during application but settles into a soft, natural finish. It does not feel sticky or heavy. Many users describe it as feeling like a light moisturizer rather than a sunscreen.

Beauty of Joseon formulated this product with SPF 50+ PA++++ for strong UVA and UVB protection. It uses organic (chemical) UV filters that blend invisibly into the skin. The result is zero white cast and a smooth base for makeup application.

Pros:

• 30% rice extract brightens and evens skin tone
• Probiotics strengthen the skin barrier
• Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
• Zero white cast on every skin tone
• SPF 50+ PA++++ broad spectrum protection
• Affordable price point for a premium K-beauty product
• Works well under makeup without pilling

Cons:

• Can look slightly shiny on very oily skin after a few hours
• Some users report it stings around the eye area
• Does not provide as much moisture as Round Lab for dry skin

Texture and Application Feel

The texture of your sunscreen matters a lot. It determines whether you enjoy using it every day or skip it altogether. Let’s compare how these two products feel on the skin.

Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen has a lotion-like consistency. It pours out of the tube with a creamy, fluid texture. When you spread it on your face, it feels hydrating and smooth. The formula absorbs in about 30 seconds and leaves your skin feeling moisturized.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun has a slightly thicker cream texture. It feels rich on first application but thins out quickly as you blend it. The finish is a bit lighter than Round Lab. It leaves a soft, velvety layer on the skin that does not feel tacky.

Both sunscreens spread easily without pulling or tugging. Neither product pills when layered over serums or moisturizers. If you prefer a more hydrating feel, Round Lab is the better pick. If you want something slightly lighter and more matte, Beauty of Joseon has the edge.

Ingredients Breakdown: What Sets Them Apart

The ingredient lists of these two sunscreens tell very different stories. Each product uses unique hero ingredients that target specific skin concerns.

Round Lab relies on birch sap from the Inje region of South Korea. This sap contains natural amino acids, lactic acid, pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), and hyaluronic acid. These compounds form a moisture barrier on your skin. The formula also includes niacinamide for brightening, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) for antioxidant protection, and portulaca oleracea extract for soothing irritation.

Beauty of Joseon uses 30% rice extract as its foundation. Rice has been used in Korean beauty for centuries. It contains ferulic acid, allantoin, and natural ceramides that protect and nourish the skin. The formula also includes grain fermented extracts that act as probiotics. These extracts improve skin texture and support a healthy microbiome.

Both products avoid harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Both use chemical UV filters for invisible sun protection. The key difference is simple. Round Lab focuses on hydration, while Beauty of Joseon focuses on brightening and barrier support.

SPF Protection Level Comparison

Sun protection is the primary job of any sunscreen. Both products deliver strong UV defense, but there are a few differences worth knowing.

Round Lab Birch Juice UV LOCK offers SPF 45 (US version) / SPF 50+ (Korean version) with PA++++ rating. The US version underwent FDA testing and received a broad spectrum SPF 45 designation. The Korean version carries the SPF 50+ PA++++ label. Both versions provide excellent protection from UVA and UVB rays.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun offers SPF 50+ PA++++ protection. It uses organic chemical filters that absorb UV radiation before it reaches your skin cells. This level of protection meets the highest standard available in Korean sunscreen ratings.

In terms of raw numbers, both products give you very high protection. The PA++++ rating means they block more than 95% of UVA rays. For daily use, commuting, and indoor activities, both sunscreens provide more than enough protection.

If you plan to spend extended time outdoors, remember to reapply every two hours regardless of which product you choose. Neither sunscreen is waterproof, so reapplication after sweating or swimming is essential.

Finish and White Cast Test

White cast is a deal-breaker for many sunscreen users. Let’s see how both products perform on different skin tones.

Round Lab leaves absolutely no white cast. The chemical UV filters in the formula blend completely into the skin. On light, medium, and dark skin tones, the sunscreen disappears within seconds of blending. The finish is a natural, healthy glow that makes skin look hydrated and fresh.

Beauty of Joseon also leaves zero white cast. Its organic filters dissolve into the skin just as well. The finish is slightly different though. Beauty of Joseon gives a soft, dewy sheen that some people describe as a “glass skin” effect. On oily skin, this sheen can increase throughout the day.

If you prefer a glowing, moisturized look, both products deliver that. Round Lab leans slightly more toward a natural satin finish. Beauty of Joseon leans slightly toward a dewy, luminous finish. Neither product will leave you looking chalky or ashy.

Performance Under Makeup

A sunscreen that works well under makeup saves you time and frustration. Both of these products have excellent reputations as primer replacements.

Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen sits beautifully under foundation. Its lotion texture creates a smooth, hydrated canvas for liquid and powder foundations. It does not cause pilling or separation, even when layered with serums and moisturizers underneath. Many users skip their primer entirely and use this sunscreen as their base.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun also performs well under makeup. Its slightly lighter texture means it does not add extra moisture that could cause foundation to slide. It sets to a semi-matte base that grips foundation well. Users with oily skin often prefer this sunscreen as a makeup base because it controls shine better.

Both products allow smooth application of BB cream, cushion foundation, and liquid foundation. If your skin is dry and you need extra moisture under your makeup, Round Lab is the better choice. If your skin is combination or oily and you want a clean base, Beauty of Joseon works better.

Best Skin Type for Each Sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen starts with knowing your skin type. These two products suit different skin types best.

Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen is ideal for dry, dehydrated, and normal skin. The birch sap and hyaluronic acid provide deep, lasting moisture. If your skin feels tight, flaky, or rough after applying most sunscreens, this product will feel like relief. It also works well for sensitive skin because the formula is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is ideal for normal, combination, and oily skin. The lighter texture and slightly more matte finish help control excess oil. The rice extract and probiotics are gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Many users with breakout-prone skin report that this sunscreen does not clog pores or cause new blemishes.

If you have very oily skin, neither product is truly matte. But Beauty of Joseon comes closer. If you have very dry skin, Round Lab provides noticeably more hydration. For normal skin, both products work equally well, and your choice comes down to personal preference.

Price and Value Comparison

Both sunscreens come in 50ml (1.69 fl oz) tubes. The price difference between them is small, but it is worth noting for budget-conscious shoppers.

Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen typically retails between $15 and $22 on Amazon and other K-beauty retailers. The newer UV LOCK version is at the higher end of that range. Considering its NBC Select number one ranking and premium birch sap formula, the price represents strong value.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun typically retails between $10 and $18 on Amazon and various online stores. It is often slightly cheaper than Round Lab. For the amount of rice extract and probiotics packed into the formula, this sunscreen is an exceptional deal.

Both products last about four to six weeks with daily use on the face alone. If you apply sunscreen to your neck and ears as well, they may last closer to three weeks. At these price points, both are affordable for daily use and significantly cheaper than most Western premium sunscreens.

Fragrance and Sensitivity

Fragrance in skincare can cause irritation for many people. Let’s see where these two products stand.

Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen is fragrance-free. The formula contains no added fragrance or essential oils. This makes it a safe choice for people with rosacea, eczema, or highly reactive skin. The product has also passed dermatological testing and skin irritation testing.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun does not contain added fragrance either. However, some users detect a faint, natural scent from the rice and grain extracts. This scent is mild and fades within a minute of application. The formula is also EWG-certified and free from parabens, sulfates, and other common irritants.

Both sunscreens are excellent for sensitive skin. If you have extreme sensitivity or allergies, check the full ingredient list on the packaging. Patch testing on your inner arm for 24 hours is always a smart step before applying any new product to your face.

Eco-Friendliness and Reef Safety

Environmental impact matters more than ever. Both brands have made efforts to keep their sunscreen formulas safe for marine life.

Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen is a reef-safe product. The formula does not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemicals known to harm coral reefs. Round Lab has made eco-consciousness part of its brand identity, and this sunscreen reflects that commitment.

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun also avoids reef-damaging ingredients. The organic UV filters in the formula are considered safer for aquatic ecosystems than traditional sunscreen chemicals. Beauty of Joseon uses EWG-certified ingredients that meet high safety standards.

If protecting the ocean and marine life is important to you, both products are responsible choices. You can wear either sunscreen to the beach without worrying about harmful chemical runoff. This is a significant advantage over many mainstream American and European sunscreens that still contain oxybenzone.

Brand Reputation and Popularity

Both Round Lab and Beauty of Joseon are trusted names in Korean skincare. Their sunscreens have built loyal communities of users worldwide.

Round Lab launched in 2019 and quickly became one of Korea’s fastest-growing skincare brands. The Birch Juice line is the brand’s best-selling collection. The moisturizing sunscreen has earned the number one facial sunscreen ranking from NBC Select, which tested over 100 sunscreens. Round Lab is now sold at Ulta Beauty and multiple major US retailers.

Beauty of Joseon takes inspiration from Joseon dynasty beauty rituals. The brand combines traditional Korean ingredients like rice, ginseng, and plum with modern skincare science. The Relief Sun sunscreen became a viral sensation on TikTok and Reddit. It remains one of the most discussed K-beauty sunscreens on the internet. The brand also sells on Amazon through its official store.

Both brands have strong quality control and transparent ingredient sourcing. You can trust either product to deliver what it promises. The main difference in reputation is that Round Lab is seen as the hydration expert, while Beauty of Joseon is seen as the traditional K-beauty specialist.

Which Sunscreen Should You Buy?

The answer depends on what your skin needs most. Here is a simple way to decide.

Pick Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen if your skin is dry, dehydrated, or flaky. Choose it if you want your sunscreen to double as a rich moisturizer. Pick it if you prefer a satin, healthy-glow finish and need a fragrance-free formula for very sensitive skin. It is also the better option if you want the credibility of a product ranked number one by professional editors.

Pick Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun if your skin is normal, combination, or oily. Choose it if you want brightening benefits from rice extract and barrier support from probiotics. Pick it if you prefer a slightly lighter texture with a dewy finish. It is also the better option if you are shopping on a tighter budget.

If you truly cannot decide, consider buying both and using them on different days. Use Round Lab on dry winter days or when your skin needs extra moisture. Use Beauty of Joseon during warmer months or on days when your skin feels balanced. Both products are gentle enough for daily use.

FAQs

Is Round Lab sunscreen better than Beauty of Joseon sunscreen?

Neither product is objectively better. Round Lab provides more hydration and works best for dry and dehydrated skin. Beauty of Joseon offers brightening and barrier support that suits normal, combination, and oily skin. Your skin type determines which product is the better fit for you.

Do Round Lab and Beauty of Joseon sunscreens leave a white cast?

No. Both sunscreens leave zero white cast on all skin tones. They use chemical (organic) UV filters that blend invisibly into the skin. You can use either product without worrying about a chalky or ashy appearance.

Can I use these sunscreens on sensitive skin?

Yes. Both products are safe for sensitive skin. Round Lab is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Beauty of Joseon uses EWG-certified ingredients and avoids common irritants. Patch testing is still recommended if you have extremely reactive skin.

How often should I reapply Round Lab or Beauty of Joseon sunscreen?

You should reapply every two hours during prolonged sun exposure. Both sunscreens are chemical-based and can degrade under direct sunlight over time. Reapply after sweating, swimming, or toweling off your face.

Are these K-beauty sunscreens reef-safe?

Yes. Both Round Lab and Beauty of Joseon sunscreens are reef-safe. They do not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemicals that damage coral reefs and marine life.

Can I wear makeup over these sunscreens?

Absolutely. Both sunscreens work well as makeup bases. Round Lab provides a smooth, hydrated canvas for foundation. Beauty of Joseon creates a semi-matte base that grips makeup well. Neither product causes pilling or separation under cosmetics.