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Green Tea Hydro Calming Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++

Green Tea Hydro Calming Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A lightweight, water-based calming sunscreen infused with Korean Hadong green tea extract (1,380 ppm) and next-generation UV filters delivering SPF50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum protection. Enriched with niacinamide, centella asiatica, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide NP to hydrate, soothe, and strengthen your skin barrier while shielding against sun damage — all with zero white cast.

SPF50+ PA++++ No White Cast Reef-Safe Dermatologist Tested EWG Green Grade Lightweight & Hydrating Anti-Wrinkle Functional Brightening Functional
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
60ml / 2.03 oz
SPF
SPF50+ PA++++
Filter Type
Chemical (Organic)
Key Extract
Green Tea 1,380ppm
Reef Safe
Yes
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Quad UV Filter System

Four next-generation organic UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb M, Iscotrizinol) deliver broad-spectrum UVA + UVB protection with superior photostability.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery Cream
Scent
Light Green Tea
Absorption
Under 30 Seconds
Finish
Natural Dewy

Quad UV Filter System

Four next-generation organic UV filters (Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb M, Iscotrizinol) deliver broad-spectrum UVA + UVB protection with superior photostability.

Hadong Green Tea Extract

Premium Korean green tea from the Hadong-Jirisan region at 1,380 ppm provides powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to calm and soothe reactive skin.

Multi-Layer Hydration

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, panthenol, glycerin, betaine, and ceramide NP work together to deliver deep, lasting moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.

Centella Asiatica Complex

Centella asiatica extract plus madecassoside target redness and irritation, support wound healing, and provide additional antioxidant protection.

Niacinamide Brightening

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps even out skin tone, strengthen the moisture barrier, and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores over time.

Zero White Cast Technology

Water-based formula with organic UV filters ensures completely invisible application on all skin tones — no ghostly residue or pilling.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains chemical (organic) UV filters. While these newer-generation filters (Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb M) are considered safer than older ones like oxybenzone, consult your OB-GYN before use. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not fungal acne safe. Contains Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride which can feed malassezia yeast.

Reef Safe

Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. Uses reef-friendly UV filter systems that are not harmful to coral ecosystems.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Lightweight, water-based formula is unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Dermatologist tested with soothing centella asiatica, allantoin, panthenol, and beta-glucan. No artificial fragrance or essential oils.

Compatible with Actives

Safe to layer over retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA serums. Apply actives first, wait 1-2 minutes, then apply this sunscreen as the final step.

UV Filter Note

Uses Tinosorb M (Bisoctrizole) which is approved in the EU, Korea, and most countries but not yet FDA-approved in the US. This product is regulated under Korean cosmetic standards (KFDA).

EWG Green Grade

All ingredients rated as green grade by the Environmental Working Group, indicating low hazard levels.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract) 1,380 ppmProven

Premium Hadong-Jirisan green tea extract rich in catechins (especially EGCG) that provides potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and UV-protective benefits. Particularly effective for calming redness and irritation.

  • Antioxidant: EGCG catechins neutralize free radicals caused by UV exposure and pollution
  • Anti-inflammatory: Clinically shown to reduce redness and calm irritated skin conditions including rosacea and acne
  • Photoprotective: Provides supplementary UV protection alongside sunscreen filters
Sourced from the Hadong region in Jirisan, South Korea — one of the most prized tea-growing areas with optimal climate conditions for catechin-rich leaves.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2%Proven

A multi-functional skincare superstar that brightens skin, strengthens the moisture barrier, and helps regulate sebum production. Works synergistically with sunscreen to repair UV damage.

  • Brightening: At 2%+ concentration, proven to even skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation
  • Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for a stronger, healthier skin barrier
  • Anti-aging: At 4-5% improves fine lines and wrinkles; at 2% supports overall skin health

Centella Asiatica Extract + Madecassoside Active levelsProven

The famed "cica" complex from traditional Asian medicine. Centella extract combined with its purified active compound madecassoside delivers powerful soothing, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Soothing: Active triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside) calm inflammation and irritation
  • Wound Healing: Promotes collagen synthesis and accelerates skin recovery
  • Antioxidant: Madecassoside shown to protect melanocytes against oxidative stress

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Active levelsProven

Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin than regular HA, delivering hydration to the inner layers of the epidermis for plumper, smoother skin.

  • Deep Hydration: Smaller molecular size enables penetration below the surface for lasting moisture
  • Plumping: Attracts and retains up to 1,000x its weight in water

Ceramide NP Active levelsProven

An essential skin-identical lipid that makes up approximately 50% of the intercellular matrix in the stratum corneum. Restores and reinforces the skin barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss.

  • Barrier Repair: Replenishes the lipid matrix between skin cells for a stronger protective barrier
  • Moisture Lock: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) to maintain hydration

UV Filter Complex (4 Filters) High levelsProven

A sophisticated quad-filter system using next-generation organic UV filters for maximum broad-spectrum protection with enhanced photostability.

  • Uvinul A Plus (DHHB): Excellent UVA protection, photostable, and gentle on sensitive skin
  • Uvinul T 150 (Ethylhexyl Triazone): High UVB absorption, oil-soluble, extremely photostable
  • Tinosorb M (Bisoctrizole): Hybrid UVA+UVB filter that also stabilizes other sunscreen agents
  • Iscotrizinol (DEBT): Potent UVB filter with excellent photostability and low skin irritation potential
Tinosorb M is not yet FDA-approved in the US. This product is regulated under Korean cosmetic standards (KFDA) where all four filters are approved.

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Active levelsProven

A well-studied humectant and skin protectant that moisturizes, soothes inflammation, and supports wound healing. Comedogenicity and irritancy rated 0.

  • Moisturizing: Attracts and holds moisture in the skin while improving softness
  • Soothing: Anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation
  • Healing: Supports skin repair and accelerates wound recovery

47 ingredients

Purified Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Niacinamide, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Caprylyl Methicone, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (1,380ppm), Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Salicornia Herbacea Extract, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, Panthenol, T-Butyl Alcohol, Madecassoside, Betaine, Ceramide NP, Allantoin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tocopherol, Beta-Glucan

FREE FROM: Alcohol (Ethanol), Artificial Fragrance, Essential Oils, Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Mineral Oil, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Formaldehyde, Phthalates, Triclosan
04

Where it fits in your routine

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

Apply as the last step of skincare before makeup. Can replace your daily moisturizer thanks to its hydrating formula. Reapply every 2 hours during prolonged sun exposure.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Complete Your Skincare Routine

After cleansing, toning, and applying any serums or moisturizers, wait 1-2 minutes for products to absorb before applying sunscreen.

2

Dispense a Generous Amount

Squeeze approximately a nickel-sized amount (about two finger-lengths) onto your fingertips. This ensures adequate SPF coverage for your face and neck.

3

Apply Evenly to Face & Neck

Gently spread the cream across your entire face, neck, and ears using light patting or smoothing motions. The watery texture blends effortlessly without rubbing or pilling.

4

Wait Before Makeup

Allow 15-20 minutes before applying makeup for the sunscreen to set. It doubles as an excellent makeup primer with its smooth, non-greasy finish.

5

Reapply Every 2 Hours

During extended sun exposure (beach, outdoor activities), reapply every 2 hours for continuous protection. For daily indoor use, one morning application is generally sufficient.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want high SPF protection without white cast or heavy texture
  • You have sensitive or easily irritated skin that needs calming ingredients
  • You prefer a sunscreen that doubles as a hydrating day cream
  • You want anti-aging and brightening benefits from your sunscreen
  • You need a lightweight primer-like base under makeup
  • You want a reef-safe, eco-conscious sunscreen option

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — contains oils and esters that feed yeast
  • You need a completely matte finish for very oily skin — this has a natural dewy finish
  • You prefer mineral/physical-only sunscreen (this is 100% chemical filters)
  • You are pregnant and want to avoid all chemical UV filters (consult your doctor)
  • You need waterproof or sport-grade protection for swimming or heavy exercise
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Good

Lightweight and fast-absorbing with a non-greasy feel. The dewy finish may add slight shine on very oily zones — a light powder on top solves this.

Dry Skin
Excellent

Hydrating formula with hyaluronic acid, ceramide NP, glycerin, and panthenol provides lasting moisture. Can replace your day cream entirely.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances perfectly across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overloading the T-zone. Ideal everyday sunscreen for combo skin.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Dermatologist tested with centella, allantoin, panthenol, and beta-glucan to calm reactive skin. Free from fragrance and essential oils. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and contains niacinamide which helps with breakouts. However, not suitable for fungal acne specifically due to oil content.

08

Results timeline

3+ MONTHS
Immediately

Instant UV Protection & Hydration

Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection activates on application. Skin feels instantly hydrated and smooth with a natural, dewy glow and zero white cast.

95% noticed immediate hydration boost
1-2 Weeks

Calmer, Less Irritated Skin

Green tea and centella asiatica begin to visibly reduce redness and irritation. Skin barrier starts to feel stronger and more resilient with continued use of ceramide NP and panthenol.

80% noticed reduced redness
4-6 Weeks

Brighter, More Even Skin Tone

Niacinamide and consistent UV protection work together to gradually fade dark spots and even out skin tone. Sun damage prevention becomes visible in overall complexion clarity.

70% noticed brighter complexion
3+ Months

Long-Term Anti-Aging Benefits

Consistent daily SPF use is the most proven anti-aging strategy. Adenosine and niacinamide contribute to visibly smoother, firmer skin with fewer fine lines over time.

85% noticed improved skin texture
09

Ratings by platform

930+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users found the finish slightly too dewy for very oily skin
YesStyle
4.7
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Wish it came in a larger size (60ml runs out fast with daily use)
StyleKorean
4.8
Rating
80+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can be hard to find in stock due to popularity
Olive Young
4.6
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Tube packaging makes it hard to get the last bit of product out
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Absolutely zero white cast on all skin tones
  • Lightweight watery texture that absorbs in seconds
  • Excellent as a makeup primer — no pilling
  • Soothing and calming for sensitive and irritated skin
  • Impressive ingredient list with niacinamide, centella, ceramide, and HA
  • Reef-safe and EWG green grade formula
  • Doesn't sting eyes (water-based formula)
  • Affordable K-beauty price point for premium UV filters

Criticized

  • 60ml size runs out quickly with daily use
  • Dewy finish may be too glowy for very oily skin
  • Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
  • Not waterproof — needs reapplication after sweating
  • Contains UV filters not FDA-approved (Tinosorb M)
  • Tube packaging wastes product at the end
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50 PA+++
$12.00
Budget Pick

Similar soothing sunscreen concept with aloe instead of green tea. Slightly lower PA rating (PA+++ vs PA++++). Less sophisticated UV filter system and fewer active skincare ingredients, but excellent value.

75% Match
Purito Daily Go-To Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
$14.00
Budget Pick

Lightweight chemical sunscreen with a similar dewy finish and no white cast. Uses different UV filters (Uvinul A Plus + Uvinul T 150). Less calming/soothing focused but good for daily wear.

70% Match
Super Moisture UV Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
$10.00
Budget Pick

J-beauty gel sunscreen with similar lightweight texture and hydrating properties. Larger size (110g) for better value. Lacks the green tea and centella soothing complex but offers comparable UV protection.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+

SPF / PA SPF50+ PA++++
Size 50ml
UV Filter Type 3 Chemical Filters
Key Actives Rice Bran, Probiotics
White Cast None
Finish Dewy / Glowy
Reef Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
SPF / PA SPF50+ PA++++
Size 50ml
UV Filter Type 4 Chemical Filters
Key Actives 8 Types Hyaluronic Acid
White Cast None
Finish Watery / Light Dewy
Reef Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
SPF / PA SPF50+ PA++++
Size 50g
UV Filter Type Chemical Filters
Key Actives Hyaluronic Acid (minimal)
White Cast None
Finish Watery / Semi-Matte
Reef Safe No (contains Octinoxate)
Fungal Acne Safe No
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid storing in high-temperature environments like a hot car.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with screw cap — hygienic and easy to dispense. Compact design fits easily in purses and travel bags.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 60ml is under the 100ml TSA/airline carry-on limit for liquids.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. This sunscreen contains chemical (organic) UV filters including Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Tinosorb M, and Iscotrizinol. While these are newer-generation filters considered safer than older ones like oxybenzone, many dermatologists recommend mineral-only sunscreens during pregnancy as a precaution. The formula does NOT contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil (Baobab), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), consider alternatives like Purito Comfy Water Sun Block or a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide only.

Yes! This sunscreen is compatible with all common actives including retinol, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid, SAP, MAP), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). Apply your actives first, wait 1-2 minutes for absorption, then apply this sunscreen as the final step. In fact, wearing SPF50+ sunscreen is especially important when using photosensitizing actives like retinol and AHAs.

This sunscreen works well for all skin types but is especially excellent for dry, combination, and sensitive skin. The hydrating formula with hyaluronic acid, ceramide NP, and panthenol deeply moisturizes while green tea and centella soothe irritation. For very oily skin, the natural dewy finish may require a setting powder on top. Not recommended for those with fungal acne.

UV protection is immediate upon application. You'll notice hydration and skin-calming effects right away. Reduced redness and irritation typically appear within 1-2 weeks of daily use. Brightening and more even skin tone from niacinamide become visible around 4-6 weeks. Long-term anti-aging benefits from consistent SPF use accumulate over 3+ months.

Apply as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. Wait 1-2 minutes after your moisturizer for it to absorb, then apply sunscreen generously. If wearing makeup, wait 15-20 minutes after sunscreen application before applying primer or foundation. This sun cream can also replace your daily moisturizer thanks to its hydrating formula.

This sunscreen has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores for most people. The lightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a heavy residue. It also contains niacinamide which can actually help minimize pores and reduce breakouts. However, everyone's skin is different — if you're extremely acne-prone, patch test on a small area first.

The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within 12 months for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With daily use on face and neck (recommended amount), the 60ml tube typically lasts 4-6 weeks, so shelf life should not be an issue for most users.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Barulab Green Tea Hydro Calming Sun Cream is an outstanding everyday K-beauty sunscreen that punches well above its price point. With four next-generation UV filters delivering SPF50+ PA++++ protection, a calming green tea and centella complex, and barrier-strengthening ingredients like ceramide NP and niacinamide — all in a lightweight, zero-white-cast formula — it's a genuine multi-tasker. It falls just short of a perfect score due to its incompatibility with fungal acne and the slightly dewy finish that may not suit very oily skin. But for the vast majority of users seeking affordable, effective, skin-loving sun protection, this is one of the best values in K-beauty suncare.

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

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
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
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
% % % %