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Brightening up Sun+ SPF50+PA+++

Brightening up Sun+ SPF50+PA+++

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A hybrid tone-up sunscreen with peach-beige tint that instantly brightens your complexion while providing broad-spectrum SPF50+PA+++ protection. Formulated with Tannin Complex for sebum control and Pycnogenol for antioxidant defense against UV rays, blue light, and pollution.

SPF50+ PA+++ Hybrid UV Filters Tone-Up Effect Sebum Control Blue Light Protection Dermatologist-Developed Hypoallergenic Tested
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Size
50ml
SPF
50+ PA+++
Filter Type
Hybrid
Water Resistant
No
Tint
Peach Beige
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

24-Hour Tone-Up Effect

Peach-beige tint instantly brightens and evens out skin tone, lasting throughout the day without oxidizing.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Creamy Lotion
Scent
Light Baby Powder
Absorption
30-60 seconds
Finish
Velvet Matte

24-Hour Tone-Up Effect

Peach-beige tint instantly brightens and evens out skin tone, lasting throughout the day without oxidizing.

5-Layer Protection

Shields against UVA, UVB, blue light, infrared rays, and environmental pollution with hybrid mineral and chemical filters.

Tannin Complex

Green tea, grape seed, and persimmon extracts work together to control excess sebum and minimize pore appearance.

Pycnogenol Power

French maritime pine bark extract provides potent antioxidant protection and supports skin elasticity.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate), a chemical UV filter with potential endocrine-disrupting properties. Consider mineral-only alternatives during pregnancy.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Grape Seed Oil, and fermented ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.

Sensitive Skin

Passed hypoallergenic and skin irritation tests. Contains soothing Centella Asiatica and Aloe Vera for calming benefits.

Reef Safety

Contains Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide (mineral filters) but also Octinoxate which is banned in some reef areas like Hawaii.

Alcohol-Free

No drying alcohols in the formula. Safe for dehydrated and compromised skin barriers.

Fragrance Note

Contains light fragrance with a subtle baby powder scent. Patch test if you have fragrance sensitivities.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Zinc Oxide + Titanium DioxideProven

Mineral UV filters that sit on the skin's surface to physically reflect and scatter UV rays. Provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.

  • Function: Physical sunscreen agents providing stable, immediate protection
  • Research: FDA-approved as safe and effective; non-nano particles don't penetrate healthy skin
  • Benefit: Less likely to cause irritation than chemical filters alone
Non-nano formulation confirmed by particle analysis tests for minimal environmental impact.

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) Chemical UV FilterEffective

A widely-used organic UV filter that absorbs UVB rays and prevents them from penetrating the skin. Provides lightweight, elegant sun protection.

  • Function: UVB absorption (limited UVA protection)
  • Concentration: Up to 7.5% allowed in US formulations
  • Note: Combined with other filters for broad-spectrum coverage
Some studies suggest potential endocrine-disrupting effects. Pregnant women may prefer mineral-only sunscreens.

Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract)Promising

Extracted from French maritime pine bark, this powerful antioxidant helps protect skin from free radical damage and supports collagen production.

  • Source: Pinus Pinaster bark from the French coast
  • Research: Studies show improved skin elasticity and hydration
  • Benefit: Enhances UV protection and helps prevent photoaging

Tannin ComplexProven

A synergistic blend of Green Tea Extract, Grape Seed Oil, and Persimmon Leaf Extract that controls sebum production and provides antioxidant benefits.

  • Green Tea: Rich in EGCG catechins for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action
  • Grape Seed: Contains proanthocyanidins that protect against UV-induced damage
  • Persimmon: Natural astringent properties help minimize pore appearance

Centella Asiatica ExtractProven

A revered herb in K-beauty known for its powerful soothing and skin-healing properties. Calms irritation and supports the skin barrier.

  • Active compounds: Madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid
  • Research: Clinically proven to accelerate wound healing and reduce redness
  • Benefit: Ideal for sensitive and reactive skin types

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven

A multitasking superstar that brightens skin tone, minimizes pores, and strengthens the skin barrier while regulating sebum production.

  • Concentration: Present in formula for brightening benefits
  • Research: 2-5% concentration effective for visible skin tone improvement
  • Benefit: Works synergistically with UV protection to prevent hyperpigmentation

54 ingredients

Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butylene Glycol, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Titanium Dioxide, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Dipropylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Caprylyl Methicone, Nymphaea Alba (White Water Lily) Flower Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Calendula Officinalis (Pot Marigold) Flower Extract, Diospyros Kaki (Persimmon) Leaf Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Seedcake Extract, Pinus Pumilio Bark Extract, Thermus Thermophillus Ferment, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Portulaca Oleracea (Green Purslane) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Magnesium Sulfate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Aluminum Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cholesterol, Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine, Panthenol, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Tocopheryl Acetate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Disodium EDTA, Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Fragrance

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Mineral Oil, Oxybenzone, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Artificial Colors (uses only iron oxides), Animal-Derived Ingredients
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
This Sunscreen
6
Makeup (Optional)

Apply as the final step of your morning skincare routine. Can be used alone as a makeup base thanks to its tone-up effect. Reapply every 2-3 hours when outdoors.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Complete Your Skincare

Finish your morning routine with toner, serum, and moisturizer. Allow products to fully absorb before applying sunscreen.

2

Dispense Adequate Amount

Use approximately a nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) for the face. Don't skimp on amount for proper SPF protection.

3

Apply & Blend

Dot product on forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently spread outward and blend until fully absorbed. Extend to neck and ears.

4

Wait Before Makeup

Allow 2-3 minutes for the sunscreen to set before applying makeup. The matte finish creates an ideal primer base.

5

Reapply as Needed

Reapply every 2-3 hours during prolonged sun exposure, or immediately after sweating or towel-drying. Not water-resistant.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
  • You want a sunscreen that doubles as a makeup primer
  • You prefer a matte, non-greasy finish over dewy looks
  • You want instant skin brightening and tone correction
  • You need sebum control during hot, humid weather
  • You want protection against blue light from screens

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains octinoxate)
  • You have fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis
  • You have very dry skin that needs extra hydration
  • You need a water-resistant formula for swimming/sports
  • The peach-beige tint doesn't match your skin tone
  • You prefer a completely fragrance-free formula
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Perfect match! Tannin Complex controls sebum throughout the day. Matte finish prevents shine without clogging pores.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Controls oil where needed without over-drying drier areas.

Normal Skin
Good

Works well for daily protection and makeup priming. Provides comfortable wear throughout the day.

Dry Skin
Moderate

May feel too mattifying. Layer over a rich moisturizer and consider the Moisture version instead.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Passed hypoallergenic testing. Contains soothing Centella and Aloe. Patch test first due to fragrance.

Acne-Prone Skin
Moderate

Low comedogenic rating (2/5) but not fungal acne safe. Good sebum control may help prevent bacterial acne.

08

Results timeline

4-8 WEEKS
Immediate

Instant Brightening & Tone-Up

Peach-beige tint immediately evens out skin tone and adds radiance. Matte finish reduces appearance of pores and creates smooth canvas.

95% noticed instant glow
4-6 Hours

Sebum Control Performance

Tannin Complex actively works to absorb excess oil. Skin maintains matte finish without becoming cakey or dry.

82% reported reduced shine
1-2 Weeks

Even Skin Tone

With consistent daily use, niacinamide helps reduce appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation from sun damage.

74% noticed brighter complexion
4-8 Weeks

Improved Skin Texture

Antioxidant protection from Pycnogenol and botanical extracts helps maintain healthy skin and prevent photoaging signs.

68% reported smoother skin
09

Ratings by platform

2K+ REVIEWS
YesStyle
4.5
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Peach tint may be too warm for fair or cool-toned skin
Amazon
4.0
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users found it too drying for winter months
Olive Young
4.6
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: 50ml size runs out quickly with proper reapplication
Stylevana
4.4
Rating
300+
Reviews
Main complaint: Light fragrance may bother scent-sensitive users
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Excellent sebum control that lasts all day
  • Beautiful matte finish without looking flat or cakey
  • Works perfectly as a makeup primer base
  • Instant tone-up brightening effect
  • Non-sticky, lightweight texture
  • Hybrid formula combines best of mineral and chemical filters
  • Contains beneficial skincare ingredients
  • No white cast on most skin tones

Criticized

  • Can be too drying for dry skin types
  • Peach tint may not suit all skin tones
  • Contains fragrance (baby powder scent)
  • Not water or sweat resistant
  • 50ml size may not last long with proper usage
  • Not pregnancy-safe due to Octinoxate
  • Not fungal acne safe
  • Difficult to reapply over makeup
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
All Around Safe Block Essence Sun Milk SPF50+/PA+++
$12.00
Budget Pick

Similar tone-up effect and matte finish with slightly larger 70ml size. Contains mineral and chemical filters. More affordable but less botanicals.

80% Match
Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule
$14.00
Budget Pick

Features Centella focus with tone-up effect. Higher PA rating (PA++++). More soothing formula but less sebum control.

75% Match
Hyaluron Moist Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
$16.00
Similar Price

Strong sebum control with slight pink tone-up. Higher PA rating. More lightweight texture but less brightening botanicals.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh Rice + B5 SPF 50+
SPF Rating SPF50+ PA++++
Filter Type Chemical Only
Size 50ml
Finish Dewy/Natural
Tint None (Clear)
Pregnancy Safe No (Chemical filters)
Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++
SPF Rating SPF50+ PA+++
Filter Type Hybrid (Mineral + Chemical)
Size 50ml
Finish Natural/Slightly Dewy
Tint Slight White Cast
Pregnancy Safe No

Innisfree Daily UV Defense SPF36

SPF Rating SPF36 PA+++
Filter Type 100% Mineral
Size 50ml
Finish Natural
Tint None
Pregnancy Safe Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life is 36 months from manufacture date.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid temperatures above 30°C (86°F). Do not freeze.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Allows controlled dispensing and hygienic application.

Travel Friendly

Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml/3.4oz liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Compact tube fits easily in travel bags.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No, this sunscreen is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter that some studies suggest may have endocrine-disrupting properties. While regulatory bodies consider it safe within approved concentrations, many dermatologists recommend pregnant women opt for mineral-only sunscreens containing only Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide. Consider alternatives like Innisfree Daily UV Defense or other 100% mineral formulas during pregnancy.

No, this sunscreen is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Ethylhexyl Palmitate (an ester), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil (contains fatty acids), Thermus Thermophillus Ferment (a fermented ingredient), and Stearic Acid. If you have fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis, look for sunscreens that avoid oils, fatty acids (C11-C24), esters ending in "-ate," polysorbates, and fermented ingredients.

Yes, this sunscreen is compatible with most active ingredients. In fact, using SPF is essential when using retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA) as these can increase sun sensitivity. Apply your actives in your morning or evening routine, then apply this sunscreen as the final step before makeup. The niacinamide in this formula also pairs well with vitamin C for enhanced brightening benefits.

This sunscreen is best suited for oily and combination skin types. The Tannin Complex actively controls sebum production, and the velvet matte finish prevents shine throughout the day. It also works well for normal skin. However, those with dry skin may find it too mattifying and should consider layering over a rich moisturizer or choosing the Dr.G Brightening Up Moisture Sun variant instead.

You'll notice the tone-up brightening effect and matte finish immediately upon application. Sebum control benefits are visible within 4-6 hours. For longer-term skin tone improvements from the niacinamide and antioxidants, consistent daily use for 2-4 weeks will show cumulative brightening and evening of skin tone. Remember that the primary function is UV protection, which prevents future sun damage rather than reversing existing damage.

Apply this sunscreen as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serum/essence, and moisturizer. Wait about 1-2 minutes after your moisturizer has absorbed before applying sunscreen. This ensures proper layering and allows the sunscreen to form an even protective film. If wearing makeup, wait another 2-3 minutes after sunscreen application before applying primer or foundation.

This sunscreen has a low-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. While it contains some potentially pore-clogging ingredients like Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Grape Seed Oil, the overall formula is designed for oily skin and includes pore-minimizing ingredients. Most users report no breakouts, but if you're extremely acne-prone, patch test first. The formula passed dermatological testing for non-comedogenic performance.

The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Unopened, the shelf life is 36 months from the manufacture date. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize longevity. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use even if within the PAO period.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Dr.G Brightening Up Sun+ is an excellent choice for oily and combination skin types seeking a matte-finish, tone-correcting sunscreen that doubles as a makeup primer. The hybrid formula provides reliable broad-spectrum protection while the Tannin Complex keeps shine at bay all day. The instant peach-beige tone-up effect is a standout feature for those wanting a no-makeup makeup look. However, it's not suitable for pregnant women or those with fungal acne due to its chemical UV filter and certain feed-ingredients. Dry skin types should opt for the Moisture variant. Overall, a solid performer from a dermatologist-developed K-beauty brand that delivers on its promises of brightening, sebum control, and comfortable all-day wear.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Centella Asiatica Extract Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Ceramide NP Tocopherol
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Disteardimonium Hectorite
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Centella Asiatica Extract Glycerin Panthenol Tocopherol Sodium Hyaluronate
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
5 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
57% 11% 31%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 54 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
3 A
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
6 Unknown
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
UV Protection
2 A
Cyclohexasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
2 Unknown
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
UV Protection
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS