This comparison covers the UK Relief Sun SPF50+ PA++++ and US Unseen SPF 50, not the older Unseen SPF 40. Relief Sun's Rice + Probiotics name has changed to Rice + Niacinamide without changing the formula, so the packaging has had more of a makeover than the sunscreen.12

What actually differs?

FeatureBeauty of Joseon Relief SunSupergoop Unseen SPF 50
Protection labelSPF50+ PA++++Broad spectrum SPF 50
Texture and finishLightweight cream; dewy finishWeightless gel; natural finish
Formula highlightsRice extract, niacinamide and glycerinSilicones, shea butter, bisabolol and dipotassium glycyrrhizate
UV filtersEthylhexyl triazone, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, diethylhexyl butamido triazone and methylene bis benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenolAvobenzone 3%, homosalate 7%, octisalate 5% and octocrylene 9%
Under makeupMoisturizing formula that layers under makeupPrimer function with a pore blurring finish
Swimming and sweatingDirections say to choose a water resistant sunscreenReapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating
Listed price and size£15 for 50 mL, including VATUS$76 for two 1.7 fl. oz. tubes; US$38 per tube within that pack
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Which should you pick?

Relief Sun is the more natural fit if you want added moisture and visible dewiness. Beauty of Joseon advises dry, dehydrated and normal skin types to use moisturizer underneath; combination skin can add it if needed, while oily skin can skip it. Choose Unseen if you prefer a natural finish and want sunscreen to grip makeup. Unseen doubles as a primer, giving one tube two job titles. Compare local prices before choosing on cost: the listed offers use different currencies and pack sizes.13

How do you apply them?

  1. 1Finish your morning skincare first. Apply Relief Sun as the last skincare step; apply Unseen after completing skincare and before makeup.
  2. 2Apply generously and evenly to exposed skin, including your face, neck and ears. General application guidance is at least 1 teaspoon for the face; most adults need about 1 ounce for all skin not covered by clothing.
  3. 3Apply before going outside. General guidance is to allow approximately 15 minutes, and Unseen's label specifically requires application 15 minutes before sun exposure.
  4. 4If using Unseen under makeup, allow 30 seconds for absorption before applying makeup. That makeup interval is separate from the wait before sun exposure.
  5. 5Reapply at least every 2 hours outdoors. Reapply Unseen after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating and immediately after towel drying.
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SPF measures protection against sunburn, while broad spectrum protection covers both UVA and UVB rays. Neither sunscreen replaces shade, protective clothing or sunglasses. Water resistance describes a limited period of protection during swimming or sweating, not waterproof protection.56

What should you expect?

Unseen leaves a natural, pore blurring finish on application. Its skin clarity benefit was measured after four weeks of use in 33 women, so distinguish the immediate cosmetic finish from changes over time. Supergoop recommends the gel for normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive and acne prone skin.3

Who should be careful?

Beauty of Joseon permits Relief Sun during pregnancy but advises checking with your doctor before adding it because skin can become more sensitive. Skincare products can cause burning, stinging or contact dermatitis, meaning skin inflammation. Unseen's label says not to use it on damaged or broken skin, to keep it out of the eyes, and to stop and ask a doctor if a rash occurs.127

If you take medication, ask about sun precautions because some medicines increase sun sensitivity. Topical retinoids can also increase sunburn risk, making correct sunscreen application especially relevant during their use.67

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1Relief Sun Sunscreenbeautyofjoseon.com
  2. 2Supergoop! New Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50supergoop.com
  3. 3Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50supergoop.com
  4. 4How to apply sunscreenaad.org
  5. 5Labeling and Effectiveness Testing: Sunscreen Drug Products for Over-The-Counter Human Use — Small Entity Compliance Guidefda.gov
  6. 6Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun: From Sunscreen to Sunglassesfda.gov
  7. 7Common skin lesions. Topical treatment of photodamagedermnetnz.org