If you have oily skin and you’ve been exploring Korean skincare, you’ve probably come across these two sunscreens. The Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum and the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun are everywhere right now — and for good reason.
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Both are SPF 50+ PA++++. Both are lightweight. Both are loved by the K-beauty community. But which one actually works better for oily skin?
That’s exactly what we’re breaking down today. We’ll cover ingredients, texture, finish, real-world performance, and help you decide which one is worth your money.
Also read: https://petalbeautyskincare.com/top-10-face-serums-on-amazon/
Quick Snapshot
Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA++++ · Serum-type · Water-fit finish
Best for: Normal to oily skin Finish: Dewy-matte Texture: Watery serum White cast: Minimal Reapply-friendly: Yes Price range: $$
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA++++ · Hybrid formula · Skin-soothing Editor’s pick — Best for oily skin
Best for: All skin types Finish: Natural-matte Texture: Lightweight lotion White cast: Very minimal Reapply-friendly: Yes Price range: $$
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Ready to compare both sunscreens?
👉 Check Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica on Amazon
👉 See Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun price & reviews
What Are These Sunscreens?
Before we compare them side by side, here’s a quick intro to both.
The Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Sun Serum is a water-based, serum-type sunscreen. It’s loaded with hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica extract. The texture is almost like water — it absorbs fast and gives your skin a plump, hydrated feel. It’s popular with people who want a dewy, glass-skin base before makeup.
- BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 PROTECTION – Lightweight daily sunscreen that provides Broad Spectrum UVA & UVB protection with SP…
- HYDRATING CENTELLA CARE – Formulated with Hyalu-Cica complex combining Hyaluronic Acid and Centella Asiatica Extract to …
- LIGHTWEIGHT SERUM-LIKE TEXTURE – A watery SKIN1004 sunscreen formula that absorbs quickly with no white cast, helping sk…
The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is a lightweight lotion-type sunscreen made with rice extract and probiotics. It’s been a cult favourite in the Korean skincare world for years. It’s alcohol-free, gentle on the skin barrier, and leaves a soft matte finish. A great pick if your skin is sensitive or acne-prone.
- Rice Extract & Probiotics Complex – Formulated with nourishing rice extract and skin-balancing probiotics to support smo…
- Organic SPF 50+ PA++++ Broad Spectrum Defense – Shields your skin against harsh UVA & UVB rays, helping prevent sun dama…
- Lightweight, Non-Greasy Texture – Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue or white cast; perfect for daily wear…
Ingredients Comparison
Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica uses chemical UV filters including Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb S, and Uvinul A Plus. These are well-tolerated by most skin types. The star ingredients are multi-weight hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and centella asiatica extract to calm and soothe the skin. One thing to note — it does contain some alcohol, which could be an issue for very reactive skin types.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun also uses chemical UV filters but pairs them with rice bran extract and lactobacillus ferment. The rice extract brightens and softens the skin over time. The probiotic helps support your skin’s natural microbiome and keep the barrier healthy. It’s fragrance-free and alcohol-free — a real plus for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Based on ingredient profiles and user feedback, Beauty of Joseon has a calmer, more skin-friendly formula overall. But Skin1004 delivers stronger hydration thanks to its hyaluronic acid content.
Texture and Finish
This is where the two products feel most different.
The Skin1004 feels like water the moment it touches your skin. It absorbs almost instantly and starts with a very dewy, wet finish that slowly becomes more matte as it dries down. On very oily or humid days, some users notice a slight tackiness. But for most people it feels refreshing and comfortable.
The Beauty of Joseon has a bit more body to it. It’s still lightweight, but it feels more like a proper lotion. It blends easily and dries down to a soft, natural matte finish. Not powdery or dull — just calm and shine-free. For oily skin, this finish holds up much better throughout the day.
Hydration
When it comes to hydration, Skin1004 wins clearly.
The multi-weight hyaluronic acid in Skin1004 delivers noticeable plumping and moisture. It’s especially great if your skin is oily but also dehydrated — which is more common than people think. After application, your skin feels smooth, full, and comfortable.
Beauty of Joseon is adequately moisturising, but it won’t give you that extra skin drink. It’s more about balance — it keeps your skin comfortable without adding oil or heavy moisture. If you have dry patches or tight skin after cleansing, Skin1004 will serve you better here.
Performance on Oily Skin
Both do a decent job controlling shine, but Beauty of Joseon has the edge for truly oily skin.
- Rice Extract & Probiotics Complex – Formulated with nourishing rice extract and skin-balancing probiotics to support smo…
- Organic SPF 50+ PA++++ Broad Spectrum Defense – Shields your skin against harsh UVA & UVB rays, helping prevent sun dama…
- Lightweight, Non-Greasy Texture – Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue or white cast; perfect for daily wear…
Its natural matte finish tends to hold up better through the day, especially in warm weather or humidity. Many oily skin users say it keeps their skin looking fresh for hours without needing to blot.
Skin1004 performs well too, but users with very oily skin sometimes report mid-day shine, especially during summer. It’s still a good option, but you may need a light setting powder on top if shine is a big concern for you.
Sensitive Skin Suitability
Beauty of Joseon is the winner here — and it’s not close.
It’s alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and the probiotic plus rice formula is designed to calm and support the skin barrier. If you deal with redness, rosacea, or post-acne sensitivity, this is the safer option. It’s one of the most gentle Korean sunscreens you’ll find at this price point.
Skin1004 does contain centella asiatica, which is a well-known skin soother, but its alcohol content makes it a risk for more reactive skin types. Based on user feedback, most people tolerate it fine — but if your skin is very sensitive, Beauty of Joseon is the better bet.
Acne-Prone Skin
For acne-prone skin, we’d recommend Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun.
The probiotic and rice extract combo is gentle enough for breakout-prone skin without clogging pores. It’s also non-comedogenic based on its ingredient profile and user experience. The alcohol-free formula reduces the risk of irritation that can trigger more breakouts.
Skin1004 is generally well-tolerated on acne-prone skin too, but the alcohol content could potentially aggravate active breakouts in some people.
Under Makeup
Both can be worn under makeup, but they behave a little differently.
Skin1004 layers more smoothly under foundation because of its thin, watery consistency. It creates a light, even canvas that most foundations sit nicely on. Just give it 60 to 90 seconds to fully absorb before applying makeup.
- BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 PROTECTION – Lightweight daily sunscreen that provides Broad Spectrum UVA & UVB protection with SP…
- HYDRATING CENTELLA CARE – Formulated with Hyalu-Cica complex combining Hyaluronic Acid and Centella Asiatica Extract to …
- LIGHTWEIGHT SERUM-LIKE TEXTURE – A watery SKIN1004 sunscreen formula that absorbs quickly with no white cast, helping sk…
Beauty of Joseon can pill slightly if you apply too much or layer it over heavy serums. The trick is to use a thin layer, blend it evenly, and wait for it to fully set. Once it’s absorbed, it actually makes a great base for makeup thanks to its soft matte finish.
- Rice Extract & Probiotics Complex – Formulated with nourishing rice extract and skin-balancing probiotics to support smo…
- Organic SPF 50+ PA++++ Broad Spectrum Defense – Shields your skin against harsh UVA & UVB rays, helping prevent sun dama…
- Lightweight, Non-Greasy Texture – Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue or white cast; perfect for daily wear…
Value for Money
Both sunscreens are priced similarly — usually in the $12 to $18 range on Amazon. They’re both very affordable for the quality you’re getting.
Beauty of Joseon edges slightly ahead in overall value because it functions as both a sunscreen and a calming skincare step in one. The rice and probiotic formula means you’re getting a bit of extra skincare benefit with your SPF protection.
That said, if hydration is a priority for you, Skin1004 delivers more bang for your buck in that department.
Check the latest price on Amazon for both — deals and restocks happen regularly and prices do shift.
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun if:
You have oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin. You want a genuine matte finish that holds up in humidity. You prefer an alcohol-free and fragrance-free formula. You’re new to Korean sunscreens and want a gentle, versatile option that works for most skin types.
- Rice Extract & Probiotics Complex – Formulated with nourishing rice extract and skin-balancing probiotics to support smo…
- Organic SPF 50+ PA++++ Broad Spectrum Defense – Shields your skin against harsh UVA & UVB rays, helping prevent sun dama…
- Lightweight, Non-Greasy Texture – Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue or white cast; perfect for daily wear…
Choose Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica if:
Your skin is normal to oily or combination with some dry patches. You want maximum hydration alongside your SPF. You prefer a serum-like, ultra-lightweight texture. You want a dewy base that gives a glass-skin effect before makeup.
- BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 50 PROTECTION – Lightweight daily sunscreen that provides Broad Spectrum UVA & UVB protection with SP…
- HYDRATING CENTELLA CARE – Formulated with Hyalu-Cica complex combining Hyaluronic Acid and Centella Asiatica Extract to …
- LIGHTWEIGHT SERUM-LIKE TEXTURE – A watery SKIN1004 sunscreen formula that absorbs quickly with no white cast, helping sk…
Final Verdict
For oily skin specifically, Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is our top pick.
- Rice Extract & Probiotics Complex – Formulated with nourishing rice extract and skin-balancing probiotics to support smo…
- Organic SPF 50+ PA++++ Broad Spectrum Defense – Shields your skin against harsh UVA & UVB rays, helping prevent sun dama…
- Lightweight, Non-Greasy Texture – Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue or white cast; perfect for daily wear…
Its soft matte finish, gentle alcohol-free formula, and skin-calming ingredients make it a better daily option for oily skin types. It performs well in heat and humidity, suits sensitive and acne-prone skin, and delivers solid sun protection without any fuss.
Skin1004 is an excellent runner-up and wins on hydration. If your oily skin is also dehydrated — or if you love that serum texture — it’s absolutely worth considering too.
Both are fantastic Korean sunscreens. You honestly can’t go wrong with either. But for oily skin? Beauty of Joseon wins.
Check Latest Price on Amazon — Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Compare Price on Amazon — Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun good for oily skin?
Yes, it’s one of the best Korean sunscreens for oily skin. The lightweight lotion texture and soft matte finish help control shine without clogging pores. It’s also alcohol-free, which helps avoid the kind of irritation that can trigger more oil production.
Does Skin1004 Hyalu-Cica leave a white cast?
Mostly no. The water-fit formula blends well on light to medium skin tones with very little white cast. On deeper skin tones, some users report a faint tint. Using a small amount and blending well helps minimise this.
Which sunscreen is better for acne-prone skin?
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is the safer pick. Its rice extract and probiotic formula helps balance skin without triggering breakouts. It’s also fragrance-free and alcohol-free, making it less likely to cause irritation on acne-prone skin.
Can I wear either sunscreen under makeup?
Yes, both work under makeup. Skin1004’s watery serum base layers more smoothly under foundation. Beauty of Joseon may pill slightly if layered too thick — apply a thin, even layer and let it set fully before applying makeup.
How often should I reapply these sunscreens?
Every two hours when you’re outdoors, as standard SPF advice recommends. Both formulas are lightweight enough to reapply comfortably. A cushion sunscreen or SPF setting mist over makeup is also a good option for top-ups during the day.
Which is better for hot and humid weather?
Beauty of Joseon edges ahead in hot and humid climates. Its matte finish holds up better in heat and humidity. Skin1004 can feel slightly tacky in very humid conditions, though it still performs well for most people.
Are these sunscreens reef-safe?
Both use chemical UV filters rather than mineral-only formulas, so they are not considered reef-safe by strict environmental standards. If reef safety matters to you, look for a mineral zinc oxide-based Korean sunscreen instead.
