Beauty of Joseon Tinted Sunscreen Review: A Complete Guide

The Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen has taken the K-beauty world by storm. This Korean skincare brand has built a reputation for creating lightweight sunscreens with powerful protection.

Their newest tinted formula promises to deliver both sun protection and natural coverage in one step.

But does this viral sunscreen live up to the hype? Let’s dive deep into this honest review.

Key Takeaways

• Mineral Protection: Features 20.9% zinc oxide as the active ingredient, providing FDA-approved broad spectrum protection
• 12 Shade Range: Available in 12 different tint shades to match various skin tones with an innovative shade finder tool
• SPF 40 Coverage: Offers moderate protection suitable for daily wear, though lower than the brand’s signature SPF 50+ formulas
• Lightweight Formula: True to its name, the fluid texture glides easily on skin without the heavy feel of traditional tinted sunscreens
• Mixed Reviews: While some users love the natural finish, others report issues with patchiness, transfer, and caking throughout the day
• Affordable Price Point: Retails for around $16-28 depending on where you purchase, making it accessible compared to high-end tinted sunscreens

What Makes Beauty of Joseon Tinted Sunscreen Different

Beauty of Joseon has always focused on creating innovative sunscreen formulas. This tinted version marks their first venture into providing coverage beyond sun protection. The brand specifically designed this product for their expanding US market, which explains the choice of zinc oxide as the sole UV filter.

The Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen comes in a sleek 50ml bottle with 12 different shade options. Each shade is carefully formulated to complement different skin tones without leaving the dreaded white cast that many mineral sunscreens are known for.

Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen: Full Product Breakdown

This tinted sunscreen represents Beauty of Joseon’s attempt to combine their expertise in lightweight sun protection with the convenience of tinted coverage. The product features their signature minimalist packaging with clear labeling about ingredients and benefits.

The 12 shade range sets this product apart from many competitors. Most tinted sunscreens offer only 3-4 shades, making it difficult for people with deeper or more specific undertones to find their match. Beauty of Joseon addresses this gap with their comprehensive shade selection.

Ingredients Analysis: What’s Inside the Formula

The star ingredient in this sunscreen is 20.9% zinc oxide, a mineral filter that provides broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This concentration meets FDA standards for effective sun protection while maintaining a comfortable feel on skin.

Key supporting ingredients include:

• Butyloctyl Salicylate: Acts as an SPF booster, enhancing the sunscreen’s efficacy and helping with smooth application
• Artemisia Capillaris Extract (Mugwort): Provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, typical of Korean skincare formulations
• Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables: Moisturizing agents that mimic skin’s natural lipids
• Multiple Humectants: Including butylene glycol and polyglycerin-6 for hydration retention

The formula avoids common irritants like oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Application and Texture: The Fluid Experience

The name “fluid” accurately describes this sunscreen’s consistency. Unlike thick, paste-like tinted sunscreens, this formula pours easily from the bottle and spreads smoothly across the skin. The texture feels lightweight and breathable, which aligns with Beauty of Joseon’s reputation for comfortable daily wear products.

Application tips for best results:

• Start with clean, moisturized skin
• Apply in thin, even layers rather than one thick application
• Allow each layer to set before building coverage
• Consider using a makeup sponge or brush for even distribution

The fluid consistency means you’ll need to work relatively quickly during application to ensure even coverage before the product sets.

Top 3 Alternatives for Beauty of Joseon Tinted Sunscreen

Coverage and Finish: Natural Glow or Heavy Look

The coverage level of Beauty of Joseon’s tinted sunscreen falls into the light-to-medium category. It’s designed to even out skin tone rather than provide full foundation-level coverage. The finish depends largely on your skin type and application technique.

On normal to dry skin, many users report a natural, skin-like finish that provides a subtle glow. The tint helps neutralize redness and minor discoloration while maintaining a fresh appearance throughout the morning.

However, combination and oily skin types may experience different results. Some users report that the formula can look patchy or uneven, especially when applied without proper base preparation.

Longevity and Wear: How It Performs Throughout the Day

One of the most important aspects of any tinted sunscreen is how it wears throughout the day. Beauty of Joseon’s formula shows mixed performance in this area.

Positive wear characteristics:

• Maintains color consistency for 4-6 hours on most skin types
• Doesn’t completely disappear or fade to nothing
• Works well under light powder or setting spray

Concerning wear issues:

• Transfer onto clothing, phone, and hair has been widely reported
• Can collect in fine lines and creases after 2-3 hours
• May look cakey or heavy by midday, especially in humid conditions

The transfer issue is particularly problematic for daily wear. Many users report seeing sunscreen marks on their phone screen, collar, or anywhere their face makes contact.

Skin Type Compatibility: Who Should Use This Sunscreen

This tinted sunscreen works best for specific skin types and concerns:

Ideal for:

• Normal to dry skin types seeking light coverage
• Those new to tinted sunscreens who want to try the category
• People with minimal skin concerns who want sun protection plus a hint of color
• Users looking for an affordable entry into K-beauty tinted SPF

May struggle with:

• Very oily skin that tends to break down makeup quickly
• Combination skin with enlarged pores where product can settle
• Those needing reliable, transfer-resistant coverage for long days
• Users requiring higher SPF protection (this offers SPF 40 vs many competitors’ SPF 50+)

Shade Range and Matching: Finding Your Perfect Tone

Beauty of Joseon’s 12-shade range covers a good spectrum of skin tones, though like most Asian beauty brands, the selection tends to favor light to medium complexions. The brand provides a helpful shade matching quiz on their website.

Shade distribution:

• Light tones: 5 options with various undertones
• Medium tones: 4 options balancing warm and cool undertones
• Medium-deep tones: 3 options, though selection becomes more limited

The virtual try-on tool on Beauty of Joseon’s website helps with shade selection, though lighting and screen settings can affect accuracy. Many users recommend starting with a slightly lighter shade since the formula can oxidize slightly throughout the day.

Price and Value: Is It Worth Your Money

At $16-28 depending on the retailer, Beauty of Joseon’s tinted sunscreen sits in the affordable range for K-beauty products. When compared to high-end Western tinted sunscreens that can cost $40-60, it offers decent value.

Value considerations:

• Cost per use: 50ml provides approximately 50-60 applications when used properly
• Multi-purpose function: Serves as both sunscreen and light base makeup
• Accessible price point: Lower barrier to entry compared to premium tinted SPF options
• Shipping costs: May add significantly to the price depending on where you purchase

The value proposition becomes more questionable when factoring in the performance issues like transfer and caking that some users experience.

Comparison with Other Beauty of Joseon Sunscreens

Beauty of Joseon’s tinted formula differs significantly from their popular untinted options like the Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+.

Key differences:

• Lower SPF: 40 vs 50+ in their signature formulas
• Different filters: Uses only zinc oxide vs chemical filters in other products
• Heavier texture: The tinted version feels more substantial than their ultra-light untinted options
• Limited availability: Only sold through select retailers vs wide availability of their classic formulas

Many loyal Beauty of Joseon users express disappointment that this tinted version doesn’t match the lightweight, comfortable feel of the brand’s other sunscreen offerings.

Application Techniques for Best Results

Getting the best performance from this tinted sunscreen requires specific application methods:

Step-by-step application:

1. Start with clean, lightly moisturized skin
2. Shake the bottle gently to ensure color distribution
3. Apply small amounts to different areas of the face
4. Blend quickly using gentle patting motions
5. Build coverage gradually rather than applying one thick layer
6. Use a damp beauty sponge to blend any uneven areas
7. Set with light powder if needed for your skin type

Common application mistakes:

• Applying too much product at once
• Not blending quickly enough before the formula sets
• Skipping primer on textured or porous skin
• Using rubbing motions instead of patting to blend

The Science Behind Zinc Oxide Sunscreens

Understanding why Beauty of Joseon chose zinc oxide as their sole UV filter helps explain both the benefits and limitations of this formula.

Zinc oxide advantages:

• Provides immediate protection upon application
• Stable under UV exposure (doesn’t break down like some chemical filters)
• Suitable for sensitive skin and safe for daily use
• Reef-safe and environmentally friendly

Zinc oxide challenges:

• Can feel heavier than chemical sunscreen alternatives
• More likely to leave white cast, though the tint helps counteract this
• Requires more careful application to avoid uneven coverage
• May feel more occlusive on oily skin types

The 20.9% concentration in this formula is on the higher end for zinc oxide sunscreens, which explains both the effective protection and the heavier feel some users experience.

Real User Experiences: What People Are Actually Saying

Social media and review platforms show a divided response to this tinted sunscreen. The experience seems highly dependent on individual skin type and expectations.

Positive user feedback:

• “Finally a tinted sunscreen that doesn’t make me look gray”
• “Perfect for no-makeup days when I still want coverage”
• “The shade range is impressive compared to Western brands”
• “Doesn’t pill under my moisturizer like other zinc sunscreens”

Critical user feedback:

• “Transfers onto everything I touch throughout the day”
• “Started looking patchy and separated after a few hours”
• “Much heavier than their regular sunscreens”
• “The shade I ordered online looked different in person”

Professional makeup artist opinions tend to be more critical, with many noting that the transfer and wear issues make it unsuitable for special events or long-wear situations.

Potential Skin Reactions and Sensitivities

While zinc oxide is generally well-tolerated, some users report specific reactions to this formula:

Common concerns:

• Clogged pores: Some users with acne-prone skin report breakouts
• Dryness: The mineral formula can be drying for some skin types
• Irritation around eyes: The tinted formula may sting if it migrates into the eye area
• Flash photography issues: Zinc oxide can cause white cast in flash photos despite the tint

Patch testing is recommended, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing skin conditions. Apply a small amount to your inner wrist and wait 24-48 hours to check for any reaction.

Environmental and Seasonal Considerations

This tinted sunscreen performs differently depending on environmental conditions:

Summer performance:

• May feel heavy in high humidity
• Transfer issues worsen with sweating
• Color can shift or fade more quickly in extreme heat
• Requires more frequent reapplication than chemical sunscreens

Winter performance:

• Can emphasize dry patches or flaky skin
• May look more natural in lower humidity
• Easier to build coverage when skin is less oily
• Better compatibility with heavier moisturizers

Travel considerations: The glass bottle makes it less portable than tube packaging, and TSA liquid restrictions apply.

Professional Makeup Artist Perspective

Makeup professionals who have worked with this product offer valuable insights:

Application pros:

• Works well as a base for minimal makeup looks
• Can be mixed with moisturizer for sheerer coverage
• Photographs reasonably well in natural lighting
• Easier to work with than many drugstore tinted sunscreens

Professional concerns:

• Not suitable for clients needing all-day wear
• Transfer issues make it problematic for events
• Limited shade range for deeper skin tones
• Difficult to build to medium coverage without caking

Most professionals recommend this product for casual, everyday wear rather than special occasions or professional settings.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage extends the life and performance of this tinted sunscreen:

Storage recommendations:

• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Avoid storing in hot cars or bathrooms with high humidity
• Shake gently before each use to redistribute the tint
• Use within 12 months of opening for best performance

Signs it’s time to replace:

• Color separation that doesn’t resolve with shaking
• Change in smell or texture
• Reduced sun protection effectiveness
• Skin irritation that wasn’t present initially

The Verdict: Final Thoughts on Beauty of Joseon Tinted Sunscreen

Beauty of Joseon’s Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen represents an ambitious attempt to combine the brand’s expertise in lightweight sun protection with the convenience of tinted coverage. While it succeeds in some areas, particularly shade range and initial application, several performance issues prevent it from being a standout product.

What it does well:

• Impressive 12-shade range for better inclusivity
• Lightweight application compared to many mineral tinted sunscreens
• Affordable price point for the K-beauty category
• Good initial coverage and natural finish on suitable skin types

Where it falls short:

• Transfer and longevity issues affect daily wearability
• Lower SPF than the brand’s other popular formulas
• Application can be tricky and results vary significantly by skin type
• May not meet expectations set by the brand’s other excellent sunscreen products

Bottom line: This tinted sunscreen works best for those with normal to dry skin seeking light, everyday coverage with sun protection. However, if you’re looking for reliable, long-wearing tinted SPF or are already a fan of Beauty of Joseon’s other sunscreens, you might find this formula disappointing.

For most users, the combination of transfer issues and application challenges makes this a “try before you buy” situation rather than a confident recommendation. While Beauty of Joseon continues to excel in their untinted sunscreen formulations, this tinted version feels more like a work in progress than a finished masterpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen good for oily skin?

Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen may not be the best choice for very oily skin. The mineral zinc oxide formula can feel heavy and may emphasize pores or cause the tint to separate throughout the day. Users with oily skin report better results with the brand’s untinted, lighter formulas.

How many shades does Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen come in?

Beauty of Joseon offers their Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen in 12 different shades, ranging from light to medium-deep tones. This is more inclusive than many competitors who typically offer only 3-4 shade options.

Does Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen transfer easily?

Yes, transfer is one of the most commonly reported issues with this product. Many users notice the sunscreen transferring onto phones, clothing, and other surfaces throughout the day, which can be problematic for daily wear.

What SPF level does Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen provide?

The Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen provides SPF 40 protection. This is lower than the brand’s popular untinted formulas which typically offer SPF 50+, but still provides adequate protection for daily use.

Can you build coverage with Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen?

You can build light to medium coverage, but the formula tends to become cakey or patchy when too much product is applied. It works best when applied in thin layers and is intended more for evening skin tone than providing full coverage.

Is Beauty of Joseon tinted sunscreen worth the hype?

The product receives mixed reviews. While it offers good shade range and affordability, issues with transfer, longevity, and application technique requirements make it less universally appealing than the brand’s other sunscreen offerings. It’s worth trying if you have normal to dry skin and want light daily coverage.