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If you've spent any time on skincare TikTok or Reddit in the past couple of years, you've almost certainly seen the Beauty of Joseon sunscreen pop up in your feed. The Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics alone has sold over 18 million units worldwide, and there's a good reason Australian skincare lovers keep adding it to their carts.
But here's the thing — Beauty of Joseon doesn't just make one sunscreen anymore. The range has grown to include four distinct SPF products, each designed for a different skin type, finish, and lifestyle. And if you're shopping from Australia, you've probably wondered which one actually holds up under our particularly brutal UV conditions.
We've spent weeks testing the full Beauty of Joseon sunscreen lineup through Sydney's autumn sun (which, let's be honest, still packs a UV punch that would count as peak summer in most countries). Here's what we found.
A Quick Note on SPF Ratings and Australia
Before we dive in, let's address the elephant in the room. Beauty of Joseon sunscreens carry a Korean SPF50+ PA++++ rating, which means they've been tested and certified by Korean laboratories. They are not TGA-approved in Australia, which is the case for most K-beauty sunscreens available here.
Does that mean they don't work? Not at all — the UV filters used are well-established chemical filters recognised globally. It simply means they haven't gone through the specific Australian regulatory process. If you want a belt-and-braces approach, you can layer a Beauty of Joseon sunscreen over a TGA-approved base, or simply use it as your daily SPF knowing the protection is backed by Korean and EU-standard testing.
Right, with that sorted — let's talk about each sunscreen.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ — The Original
This is the one that started it all, and it remains the bestseller for good reason.
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What's in it: The formula centres on a 30% rice extract and grain fermented filtrate blend. Rice bran has been used in Korean skincare for centuries — it's naturally rich in vitamins B and E, amino acids, and minerals that help brighten and even out skin tone. The probiotics support your skin barrier, which is particularly helpful if you're dealing with sensitivity or irritation from other actives in your routine (retinol users, this one's for you). How it feels: Creamy but not heavy. It sits somewhere between a moisturiser and a traditional sunscreen — you get a dewy, glowy finish without that greasy film that makes you want to blot your face by lunchtime. It does lean towards luminous, though, so if you have oily skin, keep reading — the Aqua Fresh might be more your speed. Who it's for: Dry to normal skin types, anyone who wants their sunscreen to double as a hydrating step, and people who prefer a natural-glow finish under makeup or on bare skin. Australian verdict: Performs well as a daily commuter SPF. For a full beach day at Bondi or Manly, we'd still recommend reapplying every 90 minutes and pairing with a hat. But for office days, errands, and everyday outdoor exposure? It's genuinely lovely to wear. |
→ Shop Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun at Kosmetics
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua Fresh SPF50+ — The Lightweight One
Think of the Aqua Fresh as the Relief Sun's lighter sibling. Same brand philosophy, completely different texture.
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What's in it: This version swaps the grain ferment for rice seed water and panthenol (vitamin B5). Panthenol is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin without adding weight — it's the ingredient that makes this formula feel almost watery on application. How it feels: Runny and fluid, almost like a hydrating toner. It absorbs in seconds, leaves zero residue, and gives a semi-matte to natural finish. If you've ever tried a Japanese watery sunscreen (like the Biore UV Aqua Rich), you'll recognise the texture — though the Aqua Fresh feels slightly more nourishing. Who it's for: Oily and combination skin types. If the original Relief Sun felt too dewy for you, this is the fix. It's also brilliant for layering under makeup because it doesn't pill or interfere with foundation. Australian verdict: A real standout for humid summer days when anything heavier feels suffocating. Sydney and Brisbane folks — this is probably your best pick from the range for October through March. |
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→ Shop Beauty of Joseon Aqua Fresh at Kosmetics
Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick SPF50+ — The On-the-Go Option
Sun sticks are having a moment in Australia, and for good reason — they make reapplication genuinely easy, especially when you're already wearing makeup.
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What's in it: The key ingredients here are mugwort and camellia oil. Mugwort is a traditional Korean herbal ingredient known for calming redness and irritation, while camellia oil provides lightweight moisture without clogging pores. The formula is designed to set to a matte finish, which is a welcome departure from most stick sunscreens that can feel waxy. How it feels: Smooth and slightly powdery on the skin. It glides on without tugging and sets quickly. You can apply it over makeup without smudging — we tested this over a full face of foundation and concealer and it didn't budge anything underneath. Who it's for: Anyone who struggles with sunscreen reapplication during the day. Parents, outdoor workers, gym-goers, and makeup wearers who need a practical reapplication method. Also great for throwing in your bag for weekend sport or a lunchtime walk. Australian verdict: Keep one in your handbag, one at your desk. The matte finish holds up well even on 30-degree days, and the stick format means you can reapply in 10 seconds without a mirror. Not ideal as your only morning sunscreen (the coverage area is smaller than a liquid), but perfect as a top-up throughout the day. |
→ Shop Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick at Kosmetics
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Moist Sun Serum SPF50+ — The Anti-Aging Pick
This is probably the most underrated product in the range, and it deserves more attention.
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What's in it: Ginseng root extract is the hero here — it's one of the most researched anti-aging ingredients in Korean herbal medicine (known as hanbang). The formula combines this with a serum-like base that's designed to plump and firm the skin while providing UV protection. It also contains niacinamide for brightening. How it feels: Silky and bouncy, closer to a serum than a sunscreen. It gives a hydrated, slightly luminous finish and sits beautifully under makeup. The ginseng gives it a very faint herbal scent that fades within minutes. Who it's for: Anyone over 30 who wants their sunscreen to multitask. If fine lines, dullness, and loss of firmness are on your radar, this sunscreen pulls double duty. It's essentially your anti-aging serum and SPF in one step. Australian verdict: An excellent choice for mature skin or anyone building a streamlined routine. The serum texture means it layers well with other actives, and the ginseng gives your skin a healthy, well-rested look — even when you're definitely not well-rested. |
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→ Shop Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Sun Serum at Kosmetics
Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen — The Skin Tint
The newest addition to the lineup, and it's generating serious buzz.
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What's in it: Unlike the rest of the range, this one uses zinc oxide as its primary UV filter — making it technically a mineral sunscreen. The formula includes mugwort extract and olive oil derivatives, with a light tint that adapts to multiple skin tones. How it feels: Fluid and lightweight with sheer, buildable coverage. It smooths out redness and minor imperfections without looking or feeling like makeup. The finish is natural — not matte, not dewy, just skin-but-better. Who it's for: Minimalists who want SPF, light coverage, and skincare benefits in a single product. It's your "no-makeup makeup" sunscreen. Also great for days when full foundation feels like too much effort but you still want to look polished. Australian verdict: The zinc oxide base is a plus for anyone wanting mineral UV protection. The tint means no white cast (the usual zinc complaint), and the fluid texture doesn't feel chalky or dry. Available in multiple shades — check which matches your skin tone before ordering. |
So, Which Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen Should You Buy?
Here's a quick guide based on skin type and lifestyle:
| Your Situation | Best Pick |
| Dry or normal skin wanting hydration + glow | Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics |
| Oily skin or humid climate | Aqua Fresh |
| Need easy reapplication over makeup | Matte Sun Stick |
| Anti-aging concerns + daily SPF | Ginseng Moist Sun Serum |
| Want light coverage + mineral SPF | Daily Tinted Fluid |
| Everyday carry for top-ups | Matte Sun Stick (bag) + any liquid (morning) |
The honest answer? Most Beauty of Joseon fans end up owning at least two — a liquid for the morning and the stick for reapplication. That combination covers you for basically every situation the Australian climate throws at you.
How to Use Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen in Your Routine
If you're new to K-beauty, here's where sunscreen fits in a Korean skincare routine:
- Cleanser — double cleanse at night — oil cleanser first, then water-based. Check out the Eqqualberry Swimming Pool Toner
- Toner — we love the Anua Heartleaf 77 Soothing Toner for this
- Essence or serum — try the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule for calming
- Moisturiser — the Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream is a beautiful pairing
- Sunscreen — always the last step before makeup
Apply about a two-finger length of sunscreen to your face and neck. Don't forget your ears and the back of your neck if they're exposed. Reapply every two hours if you're outdoors.
Where to Buy Beauty of Joseon Sunscreen in Australia
If you've searched for "Beauty of Joseon Chemist Warehouse" — you're not alone, it's one of the most common searches. However, availability at major retailers can be inconsistent, and pricing varies.
At Kosmetics, we stock the full range of authentic Beauty of Joseon products shipped directly to your door anywhere in Australia. Orders over $45 get free standard shipping, and orders over $99 get free express shipping. Every product is 100% authentic and sourced directly.
→ Browse the full Beauty of Joseon range at Kosmetics
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beauty of Joseon sunscreen approved in Australia?
Beauty of Joseon sunscreens carry Korean SPF50+ PA++++ certification. They are not currently TGA-listed in Australia, which is standard for most K-beauty sunscreens. The UV filters used are globally recognised chemical and mineral filters with well-established safety profiles.
Does Beauty of Joseon sunscreen leave a white cast?
The Relief Sun, Aqua Fresh, and Ginseng Moist Sun Serum are all chemical sunscreens — they leave no white cast at all. The Matte Sun Stick also sets clear. The Daily Tinted Fluid uses zinc oxide (mineral) but the tint cancels out any potential white cast.
Can I use Beauty of Joseon sunscreen on sensitive skin?
Yes. The Relief Sun is particularly well-suited for sensitive skin thanks to its rice and probiotic formula. The Aqua Fresh contains panthenol (vitamin B5), which is another calming ingredient. If you react to chemical filters, consider the Daily Tinted Fluid, which uses mineral zinc oxide instead.
How often should I reapply Beauty of Joseon sunscreen?
Every two hours if you're outdoors or near windows with direct sunlight. For office days with minimal sun exposure, morning application is usually sufficient — but carrying the Matte Sun Stick for a midday top-up is ideal.
Is Beauty of Joseon sunscreen good for oily skin?
The Aqua Fresh version was specifically designed for oily and combination skin. It has a lightweight, watery texture that absorbs quickly without leaving residue. The Matte Sun Stick is another excellent choice for oil-prone skin.
Looking for more K-beauty recommendations? Check out our Korean Skincare collection or take our Skin Quiz to find your perfect routine.
