Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cushion SPF 50+ PA++++
Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cushion SPF 50+ PA++++
Product Description
Product overview
A hydrating mineral sun cushion infused with birch tree sap from Inje, South Korea. Delivers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ protection in a portable compact format, making on-the-go reapplication effortless — even over makeup. Features a patented Soothing Cooler complex of five plant extracts that instantly cools and calms heat-stressed skin while Zinc Oxide physically shields against UVA/UVB rays.
Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++
Clinically tested UV protection with Zinc Oxide 22% — physically reflects both UVA and UVB rays before they penetrate skin. SPF verified at 56.5 by Korea Institute of Dermatological Sciences.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad Spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++
Clinically tested UV protection with Zinc Oxide 22% — physically reflects both UVA and UVB rays before they penetrate skin. SPF verified at 56.5 by Korea Institute of Dermatological Sciences.
Birch Tree Sap (1,045ppm)
Harvested from silver birch trees in Inje, South Korea. Rich in Natural Moisturizing Factors (amino acids, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants) that deeply hydrate and soothe skin.
Patented Soothing Cooler
A five-extract complex (Kelp, Elm Root, Aloe, Violet Flower, Yam Root) that delivers an instant cooling sensation, lowering skin surface temperature and calming heat-stressed skin.
Dual Hyaluronic Acid System
Combines Sodium Hyaluronate and Hyaluronic Acid at different molecular weights to hydrate at multiple skin layers — from deep within to the surface.
Natural Tone-Up Effect
Porous powder technology delivers light, even adhesion without clumping — giving skin a natural, subtle brightening effect with a fresh, non-sticky finish.
Effortless Reapplication
Cushion compact with built-in mirror and puff allows quick, hygienic sunscreen reapplication anytime, anywhere — even over makeup without disturbing your base.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUses only mineral (physical) UV filters — Zinc Oxide. No retinoids, no chemical UV filters, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone. Considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Stearic Acid and Sorbitan Caprylate which may feed Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, patch test first or consider a fungal-acne-verified alternative.
Primarily silicone and mineral-based formula is unlikely to clog pores. No heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. Clinically tested non-comedogenic.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free from 19 harmful substances. Dermatest certified "Excellent" for skin safety. Completed skin irritation testing.
Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. Uses only mineral UV filters that are not harmful to coral reef ecosystems.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. Mineral sunscreen does not interact negatively with active ingredients. In fact, sun protection is essential when using actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSZinc Oxide 22%Proven
The sole active UV filter in this formula. Zinc Oxide is a mineral sunscreen agent that sits on top of skin and physically reflects/scatters both UVA and UVB rays. It also has wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- UV Coverage: Broad spectrum protection across both UVA (320-400nm) and UVB (290-320nm) ranges
- Mechanism: Physical reflection — does not absorb into skin or cause chemical reactions
- Safety: Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective (GRASE) by the FDA
Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (Birch Sap) 1,045ppmPromising
Harvested in spring from silver birch trees in the Inje highlands of South Korea. Rich in Natural Moisturizing Factors including amino acids, minerals, enzymes, proteins, and vitamins (C and B). Provides deep hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Composition: Contains amino acids, lactic acid, PCA (Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid), and natural hyaluronic acid
- Traditional Use: Used in Korean traditional medicine for skin healing and purification
- Mechanism: Mimics the skin's own NMF to reinforce the moisture barrier
Glyceryl GlucosideProven
Derived from resurrection plants that survive extreme drought. Promotes the formation of Aquaporins — water channels in skin cells — for deep, long-lasting hydration that goes beyond surface moisture.
- Source: Isolated from the Myrothamnus flabellifolia (resurrection plant)
- Mechanism: Stimulates Aquaporin-3 expression, increasing the skin's own water-transport capacity
- Clinical Data: Shown to improve skin hydration for up to 24 hours in clinical studies
Sodium Hyaluronate + Hyaluronic AcidProven
Dual molecular weight hyaluronic acid system. Sodium Hyaluronate (lower molecular weight, better penetration) works alongside Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate at multiple skin layers simultaneously.
- Capacity: Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000x its weight in water
- Dual Action: High MW hydrates the surface; Low MW penetrates deeper for plumping effect
- Clinical Evidence: Well-established humectant with decades of dermatological research
Soothing Cooler Complex (5 Plant Extracts)Promising
A patented blend of Laminaria Japonica (Kelp), Ulmus Davidiana Root (Elm Bark), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Viola Mandshurica Flower (Violet), and Dioscorea Japonica Root (Yam). Removes excess heat from skin and delivers instant cooling relief.
- Kelp Extract: Rich in minerals, provides anti-inflammatory and moisturizing benefits
- Aloe Vera: Proven soothing, cooling, and wound-healing properties
- Elm Bark: Traditional Korean ingredient for calming irritated skin
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root)Proven
The anti-inflammatory salt form of glycyrrhizinic acid from licorice root. Soothes redness and irritation while also regulating sebum production, making it ideal for sensitive and combination skin types.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Clinically proven to reduce skin redness and irritation
- Sebum Regulation: Helps control excess oil without over-drying
- Synergy: Enhances the soothing effect of the overall formula
37 ingredients
Water, Zinc Oxide, Caprylyl Methicone, Methyl Trimethicone, Titanium Dioxide, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate, Propanediol, Glycerin, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Diisostearyl Malate, Glyceryl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Viola Mandshurica Flower Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice, Ascorbic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Dimer Dilinoleyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Magnesium Sulfate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Stearic Acid, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Sorbitan Caprylate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup. Reapply every 2 hours during prolonged sun exposure. The cushion format makes mid-day reapplication over makeup easy.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep the Puff
Open the compact and press the included cushion puff gently onto the soaked sponge to pick up product. You should see an even coating of cream on the puff surface.
Pat onto Skin
Starting from the center of your face, gently pat and press the puff outward across cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. Use light, bouncing motions — do not drag or swipe.
Build Even Coverage
Apply 2-3 thin layers for adequate sun protection. Extend to the neck, ears, and any other exposed areas. Allow each layer a few seconds to set before adding the next.
Reapply Throughout the Day
Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure, or after sweating or toweling off. The cushion compact is designed for quick, hygienic touch-ups on the go — even over makeup.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a mineral-only sunscreen that is pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- You need a portable SPF for quick, on-the-go reapplication throughout the day
- You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulas for sensitive or reactive skin
- You want hydration and sun protection in one step for your morning routine
- You like a subtle tone-up or brightening effect from your sunscreen
- You want Dermatest-certified, clinically tested sun protection
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a deeper skin tone and want zero white cast (mineral filters can leave a slight cast)
- You need a large-volume sunscreen for body application (15g is face-only size)
- You are prone to fungal acne (contains potential Malassezia triggers)
- You want a very matte, oil-control finish for extremely oily skin
- You prefer a tube or pump format over cushion compact application
- You are looking for a cost-effective daily sunscreen (small size = frequent repurchase)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSemi-matte finish controls shine reasonably well. Users with oily skin report no added greasiness, though extremely oily types may prefer a dedicated matte sunscreen.
Birch sap, dual hyaluronic acid, and glycerin provide excellent hydration. Cream texture feels nourishing without heaviness. A top pick for dry skin needing SPF + moisture.
Balances hydration and lightweight feel across different face zones. Moisturizes dry patches without making the T-zone greasy. Ideal daily driver for combo skin.
Mineral-only filters, fragrance-free, Dermatest certified. Soothing ingredients like allantoin, licorice, and aloe make this exceptionally gentle for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (1/5) and won't clog pores. However, contains some potential fungal acne triggers (Stearic Acid, Sorbitan Caprylate). Patch test if you have Malassezia-type acne.
Results timeline
1-3 MONTHSInstant Cooling & UV Protection
The patented Soothing Cooler complex delivers an immediate cooling sensation on application. Mineral UV filters begin reflecting UV rays on contact — no waiting period needed unlike chemical sunscreens.
95% noticed instant coolingHydration & Comfort
Birch sap and hyaluronic acid begin reinforcing the moisture barrier. Skin feels more supple and less dehydrated throughout the day. The cushion format becomes part of your reapplication habit.
85% noticed improved hydrationReduced Redness & Calmer Skin
Consistent use of soothing ingredients (licorice, allantoin, aloe) helps calm chronic redness and heat sensitivity. Skin tone appears more even with regular broad-spectrum protection.
70% noticed calmer skin toneVisible Sun Damage Prevention
Daily SPF 50+ use prevents new dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and UV-induced aging. Existing spots may begin to fade as skin is no longer under constant UV assault and can repair itself.
80% noticed fewer new dark spotsRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Mineral-only SPF 50+ PA++++ safe for pregnancy and sensitive skin
- Portable cushion compact with mirror — effortless reapplication over makeup
- Hydrating formula with birch sap, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin — no drying effect
- Instant cooling sensation from patented Soothing Cooler complex
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, Dermatest certified "Excellent"
- Natural tone-up brightening effect without looking cakey
- Lightweight cream texture that absorbs without stickiness
- Reef safe formula with no chemical UV filters
Criticized
- Visible white cast on medium-to-deep skin tones (inherent to mineral sunscreens)
- Very small 15g size — runs out quickly with 2-hour reapplication schedule
- Higher cost per gram compared to tube sunscreens
- Creamy texture may not layer perfectly over heavy foundation
- Difficult to extract product from the sponge toward the end of use
- Not ideal as a standalone sunscreen — better suited for touch-ups
- Contains potential fungal acne triggers (Stearic Acid)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESBigger cushion (25g vs 15g) at a lower price. Also mineral-based with niacinamide and ceramides. Larger puff for face-to-body application. Similar cooling effect but lacks birch sap and the hydrating depth of Round Lab.
Most affordable sun cushion option. Lightweight and hypoallergenic, but uses a hybrid chemical-mineral filter system. Less moisturizing and lacks the soothing botanical complex of Round Lab. Good entry-level cushion SPF.
Tube format (50ml) — much more product for the price. Uses chemical UV filters (no white cast) with rice extract and probiotics. Excellent for those who want zero white cast, but not a cushion and not mineral-only (not pregnancy safe as a chemical SPF).
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESCINIC Enjoy All Round Airy Sun Cushion EX
ELROEL Pang Pang Sun Cushion Plus
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the compact lid closed tightly after each use to prevent the cushion sponge from drying out. Avoid storing in high-temperature environments (e.g., car dashboards in summer).
Cushion compact with built-in mirror, soaked sponge applicator, and velour cushion puff. White and blue case design.
Yes — compact is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Slim, lightweight design fits easily in a purse or carry-on. No risk of liquid spillage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This sun cushion uses only mineral (physical) UV filters — primarily Zinc Oxide at 22%. It contains no retinoids, no chemical UV filters (like oxybenzone, avobenzone, or octinoxate), no salicylic acid, and no hydroquinone. Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and are not absorbed into the bloodstream, making them the recommended choice by dermatologists during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your OB-GYN for personalized advice.
Use with caution. While the formula is largely silicone and mineral-based, it does contain Stearic Acid (a fatty acid) and Sorbitan Caprylate, both of which are known potential triggers for Malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, we recommend patch testing on a small area first, or choosing a verified fungal-acne-safe sunscreen alternative.
Absolutely yes. In fact, using a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential when using active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs, as these can increase sun sensitivity. This mineral sunscreen does not chemically interact with or deactivate any of these actives. Apply your actives first (in serum or treatment form), let them absorb, then apply this sun cushion as your final step.
This sun cushion is formulated for all skin types but excels for dry, combination, and sensitive skin. The birch sap and dual hyaluronic acid system provide excellent hydration for dry skin, while the semi-matte finish works well for combination types. Sensitive skin benefits from the mineral-only, fragrance-free, Dermatest-certified formula. Oily skin users may find it works well but could prefer a more mattifying option. Those with deeper skin tones should be aware of a potential slight white cast.
UV protection and cooling effects are immediate — mineral filters work on contact. Hydration improvement is noticeable within the first week. After 2-4 weeks of daily use, many users report calmer, less red skin. The long-term benefit of preventing hyperpigmentation and photoaging becomes visible after 1-3 months of consistent daily use with proper reapplication every 2 hours.
Apply as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer — but before makeup. The cushion format is also designed for reapplication throughout the day: simply pat over your existing makeup for a fresh layer of UV protection every 2 hours during sun exposure.
This product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is primarily silicone and mineral-based without heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. It has been clinically tested as non-comedogenic and dermatologist-approved. However, individual reactions vary — if you have extremely acne-prone skin, we always recommend a small patch test first.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Because the 15g cushion sponge is exposed to air each time you open the compact, the product may dry out faster if not sealed properly. Keep the lid tightly closed between uses. With daily use and regular reapplication, most users find the 15g cushion lasts approximately 2-4 weeks.
Verdict: The Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cushion is a standout choice for anyone seeking a pregnancy-safe, mineral-only sunscreen in a convenient, travel-friendly format. The birch sap-infused formula delivers genuine hydration alongside robust SPF 50+ PA++++ protection, and the patented cooling complex is a real differentiator for heat-sensitive skin. It falls short on value-for-money due to its small 15g size and the inevitable white cast that comes with mineral filters. Best used as a daily reapplication companion alongside a primary morning sunscreen, or as a gentle standalone SPF for sensitive and dry skin types.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylyl Methicone
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methyl Trimethicone
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Titanium Dioxide
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Opacifying, Cosmetic Colorant, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|




