Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Review — Rice + Niacinamide SPF+50

It’s been the no.1 best Korean beauty seller since 2020, the famous Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun (with Rice + Probiotics). It’s a creamy, lightweight sunscreen that advertises SPF 50 + / PA ++++ protection, melds perfectly with make-up and glowy looks and also provides the rich hydration of a moisturizer without the pungent smell of sunscreen. It’s no wonder it’s been such a best seller for so long (even Beauty of Joseon has accepted its insane popularity and expanded its range into a variety of other sunscreen flavours this year).  

For those thinking about Korean beauty, this was often the stepping stone that got them started, showing off just how good things can get for your skin. Now, rebranded to ‘Rice + Niacinamide’, what’s the future for this core part of the everyday routine? Let’s go through the benefits, why this sunscreen has been so popular and see the before-and-after glow you can achieve. 

Beauty of Joseon was quick to reassure that their formula is identical, but it's actually because they've already changed the formula over a year ago. I couldn't find anybody that had commented on it, but it has significantly changed since 2024, when we first reviewed it. 

So, what's the update? They used to have a thicker texture, with rice extract being the 2nd ingredient (containing a whopping 30% rice to boost skin brightness and utilize the natural benefits of the extract). The new formula now has a 2nd ingredient of dibutyl adipate, which may seem disappointing at a glance. However, dibutyl adipate is actually a pretty cool skincare ingredient; designed for deep hydration, a silky finish (no oily touch) and is compatible for acne-prone skin.

The packaging's removal of ‘probiotics’ was not because they removed any of those good, skin-boosting organisms, but rather a reflection of law changes in South Korea packaging requirements (not allowing ingredients of too low a percentage to appear in the product title, to prevent misleading consumers).

Yes, the formula has changed significantly over time, meaning that the user experience has changed too! I was fairly skeptical (after all, which formula changes have been good for the consumer), but was prepared to try out the changes with an open mind:

Korean beauty sunscreens have become far more advanced over the years, and I shouldn't have been shocked that Beauty of Joseon was determined to maintain their crown as the best sun serum in K-Beauty.

The changes to their formula were all around boosting the UV protection to a new degree as well as creating a lighter, faster and more silky serum. The new serum absorbs into the skin instantly (with the loss of those thicker rice textures) and it leaves near zero cast (the only sign that you are wearing it is a light shine to your skin). 

Not only that, the old serum used to have a gentle, light sunscreen scent to it. The new serum has absolutely zero scent (I smelled it thoroughly, but genuinely the new formula is almost perfectly scentless!)

It's better. Beauty of Joseon has improved the formula to be lighter, faster acting and more skin compatible for a variety of skin types. With my acne-prone skin, although the Relief Sun was good, it was too creamy and thick for me to use (back in 2024). The newer formula, however, is very compatible with acne-prone and oily skin alike.

It was Beauty of Joseon's bid to maintain the top spot in Korean suncare, and although competition is fierce, it's a very good sunscreen.

In the before-and-after above, you can see there is literally no cast after using, just a soft shine to skin that fades as the serum dries. It is an excellent sun serum to add to any routine and is so light and gentle that it can be used in a variety of routines.

Although the SPF+ levels can sound really impressive in K-Beauty, Australian sun is something to take very, very seriously. Cosmetic sunscreens should not be used as your primary sun protection in direct, lengthy sunlight (such as beach days, hiking and outdoor adventures).

Instead, cosmetic SPF+ protection should be used on days where you might not otherwise have added a sunscreen to your skin; such as indoor office work, commutes or days where you plan to mostly be inside (but sun exposure might happen infrequently).

Korean sunscreens are incredibly lightweight, smoothing and often have ingredients that help strengthen your skin health (such as niacinamide to brighten, vitamin C to protect or probiotics to boost your barrier health). 

There's a reason some products remain at the top of people's minds in beauty. It can be a titan that never changes and people can rely on for years over. Others change with the times and ride waves to make a better product and combat competition to be better and better ~ and Beauty of Joseon is clearly determined to maintain it's status as gold-tier sun serum.

So, is the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun still worth it? I would really recommend it for anybody of any skin type. They have updated it to be near universal, light and soothing. Grab yourself a tube and prep for the summer ahead ☀️

Want to learn more about the amazing world of Beauty of Joseon? Check out the origins of the company and their original inspiration to become the world's favourite sunscreen. Or check out our guide to the top 10 sunscreens to get your protection on for summer!

Has the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun formula changed?

The brand says the formula is the same. In our review, though, the texture and finish are different from our 2024 test: lighter, more silky, quick to absorb, and nearly scentless. Always check the ingredient list on your pack.

What's the difference between Rice + Probiotics and Rice + Niacinamide?

It's the same Relief Sun, renamed on the packaging. Our review reports the change reflects South Korean labelling rules for low-percentage ingredients in product names.

Does it leave a white cast?

In our review there's almost none, only a soft shine that fades as it dries.

Does it have a scent?

Almost none. The new formula is nearly scentless.

Does it work under makeup?

Yes. It sits well under makeup and gives a glowy finish.

Is it good for oily or acne-prone skin?

Our reviewer has acne-prone skin and found the newer formula comfortable. Everyone's skin differs, so patch test first, and ask a doctor or dermatologist if you have a skin condition.

Is it enough protection for the Australian sun?

It suits everyday days: office work, commuting and incidental sun. For beach days, hiking or long outdoor time, use an Australian-listed SPF50+ sunscreen and reapply every two hours.

What SPF does it have, and what size is it?

SPF50+ PA++++, in a 50 ml tube

Where can I buy authentic Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun in Australia?

Arktastic stocks authentic Beauty of Joseon.