The Round Lab comparison below concerns the SPF 45+ PA++++ UVLock lotion listed on its Canadian site, not another SPF version or the sun stick; Beauty of Joseon's exact product and formula remain unconfirmed.1

What actually differs?

DetailRound Lab UVLock lotionBeauty of Joseon
ProtectionSPF 45+ PA++++ with chemical UV filtersExact version and rating unconfirmed
Hydration ingredientsBirch sap, hyaluronic acid and glyceryl glucosideExact formula unconfirmed
Texture and finishLightweight lotion with a smooth, grease free finishFinish unconfirmed
Makeup useDesigned for everyday wear under makeupMakeup performance unconfirmed
Price positionLotion price unconfirmedPrice unconfirmed
1

Round Lab's everyday lotion is designed for a lightweight finish, so "moisturizing" does not have to mean a second coat of furniture polish. Choose it if that texture appeals to you, rather than because birch sap makes it an automatic winner. A richer feel, better hydration or a lower price cannot be assigned to Beauty of Joseon without the exact product details.1

How should you use sunscreen on dry skin?

  1. 1Wash gently in the morning. Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, then pat your face dry rather than rubbing.
  2. 2Apply a moisturizer suited to dry skin before sunscreen. A hydrating sunscreen does not require you to remove this step from your routine.
  3. 3Apply sunscreen daily, including in winter. Cover exposed skin, including your face, neck and ears, rather than stopping at the edge of your face.
  4. 4Follow the tube's directions for application. General sun safety guidance advises applying sunscreen 30 minutes before prolonged sun exposure and again just before going outside.
  5. 5Reapply every two hours outdoors and after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Use shade and protective clothing as well.
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Look for broad spectrum protection and SPF 30 or higher. For swimming or sweaty outdoor activity, also look for an explicit water resistance claim on the exact tube. Water resistance lasts either 40 or 80 minutes, and not every sunscreen offers it. A moisturizing name is not a substitute for that label detail.56

Beauty of Joseon vs Round Lab sunscreen under makeup

Round Lab UVLock is designed to sit under makeup, but comparative pilling or foundation wear is not settled. Keep a separate facial sunscreen even if your foundation or concealer contains SPF. Makeup with an SPF number is not a reason to skip the sunscreen layer.13

The lotion and sun stick serve different jobs, despite a naming system that appears determined to make them sound like twins. Round Lab's Birch Moisturizing Sun Stick is a separate SPF 50+ product with a lightweight balm texture, positioned for reapplication. Its label directs you to apply a sufficient amount as the final skincare step; do not treat one quick swipe as a specified dose.2

What if your dry skin is also sensitive?

Introduce one new product at a time. For sensitive skin, try a pea sized dot behind your ear along the jawline and wait a day or two before applying the product across your face. Natural ingredients can still cause allergic reactions. If dryness persists or you develop unusual skin symptoms, speak with a dermatologist rather than repeatedly switching sunscreens.34

For the Round Lab sun stick specifically, stop use and ask a doctor if a rash occurs, and do not apply it to damaged or broken skin. After a skin procedure, confirm sunscreen choices with your treating provider.12

When should you replace the tube?

Replace expired sunscreen. Also replace sunscreen that changes color, develops an unusual odor, separates or becomes dry and flaky, even before its expiry date. Keep the tube out of direct sunlight and hot enclosed spaces such as a car, because heat can make the ingredients break down faster.7

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1The Birch Sun Care Line: What Each Product Does and When to Use Itroundlab.com
  2. 2Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ Broad Spectrumroundlab.com
  3. 3Facebookhealth.clevelandclinic.org
  4. 4How to Start a Skincare Routinenewsroom.clevelandclinic.org
  5. 5Sunscreen and sun safetynhs.uk
  6. 6How to select a sunscreenaad.org
  7. 7When to toss your makeup and sunscreenaad.org