Sun Gel Waterproof SPF50+ PA++++
Sun Gel Waterproof SPF50+ PA++++
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing waterproof sun gel from Skin79 delivering broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection. The watery gel-cream texture sinks in instantly with zero white cast, while a botanical blend of Centella Asiatica, Chia Seed, Calendula, Houttuynia Cordata and Avocado soothes and hydrates the skin all day long.
Broad-Spectrum SPF50+ PA++++
The highest UVA rating available, blocking aging UVA rays and burning UVB rays with a multi-filter chemical system.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad-Spectrum SPF50+ PA++++
The highest UVA rating available, blocking aging UVA rays and burning UVB rays with a multi-filter chemical system.
True Waterproof Formula
Engineered to stay put through sweat, swimming and humidity — ideal for outdoor activities, sports and hot summer days.
Featherweight Gel Texture
Watery gel sinks in within seconds, leaves no white cast and never feels heavy, sticky or greasy on the skin.
Botanical Soothing Complex
Centella Asiatica, Chia Seed, Calendula, Houttuynia Cordata, Avocado and Aloe calm and condition stressed skin.
Perfect Makeup Base
Smooths skin and grips foundation without pilling — works as the final step before BB cream, foundation or tint.
Cruelty-Free Korean Brand
Skin79 does not test on animals and produces all of its formulas in South Korea under strict quality standards.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate / Octinoxate, Homosalate). These are debated in pregnancy — many dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens instead. Consult your OB-GYN.
Not fungal-acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate and several plant oils that may feed Malassezia.
Safe to layer over vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, AHA/BHA — sunscreen is always the last skincare step in your morning routine.
Chemical filters and the polymer film may sting if it migrates into the eyes during sweating. Apply gently and avoid the lash line.
Low comedogenic rating (~2/5). Most users tolerate it well, though acne-prone skin should monitor for breakouts due to the silicones.
Not classified as reef-safe. Contains chemical filters that may impact marine ecosystems — choose mineral options for swimming in protected waters.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSEthylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) ~7.5%Proven
One of the most widely used UVB filters worldwide. Absorbs UVB rays in the 280–320nm range to prevent sunburn and photo-damage.
- FDA / EU: Approved up to 7.5% in the US and 10% in the EU and Korea.
- Function: Primary UVB blocker, oil-soluble, photo-degrades over time so reapplication is essential.
Homosalate ~10%Proven
An oil-soluble UVB filter that helps stabilize and dissolve other sunscreen actives in the formula. Provides protection in the 290–315nm range.
- Concentration: Allowed up to 10% in the EU and 15% in the US.
- Role: Acts as a solvent for other UV filters, boosting overall SPF efficiency.
Ethylhexyl Salicylate (Octisalate) ~5%Proven
A mild UVB absorber known for stabilizing other filters and improving the water resistance of sunscreen formulations.
- Stability: Photostable and gentle, with low irritation potential.
- Boost: Enhances the staying power of the waterproof film on skin.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus) ~3%Proven
A high-performance UVA filter (320–400nm). Highly photostable, this is the modern long-wave UVA absorber responsible for the PA++++ rating.
- Spectrum: Absorbs in the deep UVA-1 range that causes premature aging and pigmentation.
- Approval: Approved in the EU, Korea, Japan — not yet FDA approved in the US.
Centella Asiatica Extract High positionProven
The famous "cica" botanical, listed high in the formula. Rich in active centelloids (asiaticoside, madecassoside) that calm redness, support barrier repair and soothe irritation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces UV-induced redness and post-sun discomfort.
- Healing: Studies show enhanced collagen synthesis and wound-healing support.
Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Extract NotablePromising
Chia seed extract is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Helps reinforce the skin barrier and provides lasting hydration.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure.
- Hydration: Supports moisture retention and skin softness.
Houttuynia Cordata Extract NotablePromising
A traditional Korean herbal extract (어성초) known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Calms acne-prone and irritated skin.
- Use in K-Beauty: A staple in soothing toners and calming treatments.
- Action: Helps reduce visible redness and supports a balanced complexion.
Botanical Oil & Extract Blend Multi-blendPromising
The formula features Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract — a rich nourishing blend.
- Nourishment: Delivers fatty acids, vitamin E and natural antioxidants.
- Soothing: Calendula and chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis) calm post-sun stressed skin.
Fructooligosaccharides + Saccharide Hydrolysate NotablePromising
Prebiotic sugars that feed the skin's beneficial microbiome. Help maintain a balanced skin flora and provide light hydration.
- Microbiome support: Studies show prebiotics shift the skin's bacterial balance toward beneficial species.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains moisture in the upper skin layers.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) TraceProven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the skin lipids from UV-induced free radical damage and stabilizes the formula.
- Photoprotection: Pairs synergistically with sunscreens to reduce oxidative damage.
- Skin barrier: Supports lipid barrier integrity and reduces TEWL.
45 ingredients
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Homosalate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Propanediol, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Fructooligosaccharides, Saccharide Hydrolysate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Triethanolamine, Pullulan, Octyldodecanol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima Fruit Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract, Dimethicone, Xanthan Gum, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Polysorbate 20, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, CI 77891, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Tocopherol, Glyceryl Stearate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, PEG-100 Stearate, Aluminum Stearate, Oleth-10, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Alumina, Isodeceth-6, T-Butyl Alcohol, Simethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways apply sunscreen as thelast step of morning skincare. Wait 1–2 minutes before applying makeup on top.
How to use
HOW TO USEUse the right amount
Dispense roughly two finger-lengths (about 1/4 teaspoon) for the full face and neck — this is the amount needed to actually achieve SPF50+ protection.
Apply to clean, moisturized skin
After your moisturizer, gently spread the gel evenly across the face, neck, ears and any exposed area. Pat gently for full absorption.
Wait before makeup
Let it set for 1–2 minutes before applying foundation or BB cream. This prevents pilling and lets the protective film form properly.
Reapply every 2 hours
Reapply during prolonged sun exposure, after swimming, sweating heavily or towel-drying — even waterproof formulas need refreshing.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a lightweight gel sunscreen with no white cast
- You spend time outdoors, exercising or swimming
- You have oily, combination or normal skin
- You wear makeup and need a smooth, non-piling base
- You live in a hot, humid climate or travel to one
- You prefer Korean chemical sunscreens with botanicals
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (chemical filters)
- You struggle with fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
- You have very dry skin needing rich cream textures
- You strongly prefer 100% mineral / physical filters
- You're looking for a fully fragrance-free formula
- You need a US-FDA-approved filter combination
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWatery gel texture is perfect for oily skin — fast-absorbing, breathable and never greasy. The semi-matte finish keeps shine in check.
Balances beautifully across the T-zone and cheeks — light enough for oily areas, hydrating enough for drier patches.
Provides decent moisture but very dry skin will benefit from a richer moisturizer underneath for full comfort.
Contains fragrance and chemical filters — patch test first. The Centella content does help calm reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating and Houttuynia Cordata help calm breakouts. Not fungal-acne safe, however.
Strong UVA/PA++++ protection helps prevent photoaging — essential for mature skin focused on prevention.
Results timeline
2–3 MONTHSComfortable, Invisible Protection
Sinks in within seconds with no white cast. Skin feels softened and slightly hydrated, never tacky or sticky.
95% noticedAll-Day Stay Power
Holds up through sweat, water and humidity. Doesn't break down makeup, doesn't ball up under foundation.
85% noticedCalmer, More Even Skin
Daily UV protection plus the Centella + Houttuynia complex gradually reduces sun-induced redness and irritation.
70% noticedBrighter, Healthier Tone
Consistent SPF50+ PA++++ use reduces new pigmentation and helps maintain a clearer, more uniform complexion.
65% noticedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- True waterproof and sweat-resistant performance
- No white cast on any skin tone
- Watery gel texture absorbs in seconds
- Highest UVA rating (PA++++) with modern filters
- Great makeup base — minimal pilling
- Soothing botanical complex (Centella, Calendula)
- Affordable price point for the protection level
- Lightweight enough for hot, humid climates
Criticized
- Contains added fragrance (Parfum)
- Not fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe
- Chemical filters not ideal for pregnancy
- Small 50ml tube runs out fast with daily use
- Can sting eyes if it runs in heavy sweat
- Not approved by US FDA (Tinosorb-related filter)
- Limited availability outside Asia
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar lightweight chemical sun filter blend with skincare-grade extras. Has rice and probiotics instead of Centella, no waterproof claim — better for everyday wear, less for swimming.
Practically identical filter system with a strong cica focus (7 Centella extracts + fermented yeast). Hydrating cream texture vs. watery gel — better for dry skin, less waterproof.
Hydrating chemical sunscreen with birch sap focus. Slightly more dewy and not waterproof, but excellent for daily wear under makeup.
Aloe-focused chemical sunscreen with a slightly heavier texture. PA+++ instead of PA++++, but very gentle and great for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high temperatures (heat degrades chemical UV filters).
Squeeze tube — hygienic, easy to dispense and travel-friendly.
Yes — 50ml tube is well under the 100ml carry-on limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This formula contains chemical UV filters including Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) and Homosalate, which are debated for pregnancy and breastfeeding use. Many dermatologists recommend switching to mineral (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) sunscreens during pregnancy as a precaution. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use.
No, this product is not fungal-acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 20, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima Fruit Extract and Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil. If you struggle with fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis, look for a dedicated FA-safe mineral sunscreen instead.
Yes — sunscreen is the perfect partner to all of these actives. Apply your retinol or AHA/BHA at night, and your vitamin C in the morning before this sun gel. Sunscreen is always the very last skincare step in the morning routine and shouldn't be skipped when using exfoliating or photo-sensitizing actives.
This sun gel performs best on oily, combination and normal skin thanks to its lightweight watery gel texture and semi-matte finish. It's also a good fit for acne-prone skin and outdoor enthusiasts. Very dry skin types may want extra moisturizer underneath, and very sensitive skin should patch test due to the fragrance and chemical filters.
Sun protection is immediate — UV filters start working as soon as the gel is applied (about 15 minutes for full activation). Cosmetic benefits like calmer, more even skin tone and reduced redness from sun exposure typically appear after 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use. Long-term anti-aging and brightening benefits show after 2–3 months.
Sun gel is always the final step of your morning skincare routine — applied after cleanser, toner, essence, serum and moisturizer. Wait 1–2 minutes for it to set before applying makeup or BB cream on top. Do not use at night, and reapply every 2 hours during direct sun exposure.
The overall comedogenic rating is low (around 2/5). Most users — including those with acne-prone skin — tolerate it well. The lightweight gel format and Centella Asiatica + Houttuynia Cordata help calm breakouts. However, the formula contains silicones and a few mildly comedogenic ingredients, so very breakout-prone skin should monitor for clogged pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, the chemical UV filters can degrade over time, so it's important to use it within a year for full effectiveness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and avoid leaving it in a hot car or beach bag for extended periods.
Verdict: The Skin79 Sun Gel Waterproof SPF50+ PA++++ is a standout K-Beauty sunscreen for anyone who needs serious water and sweat resistance without sacrificing a lightweight, invisible feel. The watery gel texture absorbs almost instantly, leaves zero white cast, and the supporting cast of Centella, Calendula, Houttuynia Cordata and Chia Seed makes this more than just sun protection — it's a soothing, skin-conditioning gel. Ideal for outdoor activities, sports, humid climates and oily-to-combination skin. Drop a star for the added fragrance and the fact that it's not fungal-acne or pregnancy-friendly. For everyday active use, it punches well above its price tag.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 |
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 4 |
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 2 |
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|








