I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16.

I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16.

      As an editor with combination skin, handling oiliness is the challenge of my beauty routine. My skin tends to appear shiny (regardless of how much powder and setting spray I apply), especially as we approach the warmer months. I understand why some individuals might hesitate to apply SPF under their makeup; adding another layer can feel counterproductive when managing oiliness beneath foundation or skin tints. However, dermatologists and skincare professionals consistently affirm that daily SPF use is one of the best practices for skin health, which is why I’m committed to including it in my skincare regimen. After testing countless SPFs over my decade-long career as a beauty journalist, I’ve finally discovered one that feels nearly weightless beneath makeup and doesn’t contribute to midday shine. Even better, it’s priced under £20. I’m thrilled to have found the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPFs after seeing this K-beauty brand featured frequently on my social media. Keep reading for my detailed review of the two best SPFs I've encountered in the past year.

      ### Beauty of Joseon SPFs

      **Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+**

      **Pros**

      - Hydrating and lightweight

      - Absorbs quickly and serves as a moisturizer

      - SPF 50

      - Works well under makeup

      - Suitable for most skin types

      - No white cast

      - Affordable

      **Cons**

      - Oily skin types may find this formula too rich and may prefer the Aqua-Fresh formula

      **Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+**

      **Pros**

      - Hydrating and ultra-lightweight

      - Absorbs quickly and can replace moisturizer

      - SPF 50

      - Works well under makeup and helps control shine

      - Ideal for oily and combination skin types

      - No white cast

      - Affordable

      **Cons**

      - Individuals with dry skin may prefer the Rice + Probiotics formula

      ### The Formula

      While I enjoy Beauty of Joseon's Tinted SPF, my top two non-tinted, chemical-based sunscreens are the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ and Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+. I appreciate both formulas, but here are their main differences.

      **Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+**

      This TikTok-famous SPF lives up to the hype. The SPF50+ is presented in a creamy lotion that melts effortlessly onto the skin upon application. It contains 30% rice extract, which provides vitamins B, C, and E, and amino acids, along with grain-fermented extracts that function as probiotics for the skin. I find the hydration level sufficient to replace my moisturizer, helping to avoid shine throughout the day, making it a versatile option for any skin type that seeks hydration without the heaviness typically associated with most SPFs. It’s particularly suited for dry or balanced skin types and is calming for sensitive skin. There is no white cast, and it absorbs quickly, allowing you to apply makeup immediately if desired. I tend to use this version during colder months when my skin needs extra moisture.

      **Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF50+**

      This formulation may be my preferred choice for the warmer months. It has an even lighter lotion consistency that absorbs instantly, delivering a refreshing, water-like texture, making it ideal for oily skin. It hydrates without leaving a greasy residue, zero white cast, and no stickiness. I recommend this for individuals with oily or combination skin who desire a nearly weightless SPF that fits well under makeup without increasing shine. It penetrates the skin in seconds and doesn’t pill under makeup. The ingredients include rice seed water and vitamin B5, which hydrate and moisturize without feeling heavy. It dries down to a completely matte finish and works well as an under-makeup base throughout the day. I generally switch to this formula as temperatures rise and my makeup demands a lighter foundation.

      ### The Application

      Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two formulas. Both absorb quite quickly, with the Aqua-Fresh version soaking in slightly faster, while the Rice + Probiotics formula offers more moisture. However, both provide a non-greasy, second-skin finish and don’t leave a white cast.

      ### My Verdict

      Honestly, these are two of the finest SPFs I've encountered. They’re a pleasure to wear under makeup and leave no trace of oiliness. These are SPFs I genuinely want to use. In the image above, I’m wearing foundation layered over both SPFs, and it applied smoothly without any excess shine. In fact, I didn't need to use any powder. A definite thumbs up!

      If you’re considering which one to purchase, I recommend the Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ if you have dry or balanced skin and need additional hydration or

I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16. I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16. I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16. I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16. I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16. I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16.

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I’ve finally discovered it: a non-greasy SPF that genuinely performs well under makeup—and it costs just £16.

K-beauty strikes once more.