Can Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun cause breakouts?

Which Relief Sun are we talking about?

This answer covers the UK listing for Relief Sun Rice + Niacinamide SPF50+ PA++++, previously called Rice + Probiotics; Beauty of Joseon says the name changed but the formula did not. The packaging has had a rebrand, not a personality transplant. Relief Sun Aqua Fresh Rice + B5 is a different formula. Beauty of Joseon labels Relief Sun non comedogenic, meaning designed not to clog pores. That makes it a reasonable candidate for acne prone skin, but your decision should follow what happens after you use it, not just the wording on the tube.23

Why could a sunscreen contribute to acne?

Acne starts when pores become blocked with dead skin cells and oil, including oil from products applied to the skin. Comedones are blocked pores that appear as whiteheads or blackheads. Overhydrated skin from moisturizers or humid conditions can also contribute to comedones. Relief Sun has a creamy, moisturizing texture. For oily skin, Beauty of Joseon suggests skipping an additional moisturizer or choosing its Aqua Fresh formula instead. An extra cream is optional, not an entrance requirement for sunscreen. These are general acne principles, not a diagnosis of why your particular breakout happened. Acne can have more than one cause, and other skincare, hair products or makeup can also contribute.1345

What should you do if new spots appear?

1. 1Stop the suspected product. Replace Relief Sun with another sunscreen labelled non comedogenic or won't clog pores. Check the labels on your other skincare, makeup and hair products too.
2. 2Keep your established acne treatment steady. Frequently trying new acne treatments can irritate skin and cause more breakouts. Do not add several new treatments simply because you changed sunscreen.
3. 3Cleanse gently morning and night, and after sweating. Use a mild cleanser with your fingertips and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or using abrasive tools to chase away the bumps.
4. 4Watch whether new blemishes settle after removing the suspected trigger. Product related acne often clears when the product causing it is stopped, but continuing breakouts can mean another cause also needs attention.

How should you use Relief Sun if you keep it?

Beauty of Joseon tells you to apply Relief Sun generously and evenly as the last step of your morning skincare routine, then reapply at least every two hours. Use a water resistant sunscreen for swimming or sweating. Do not solve suspected breakouts by applying a thinner layer: insufficient sunscreen reduces the protection you receive. Some acne medicines increase sensitivity to sunlight, making continued sun protection especially relevant while treating breakouts.236

Would a mineral sunscreen be a better choice?

A mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is another option, particularly for oily, acne prone or sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens are generally less likely to clog pores or cause irritation, though their texture can be heavier and they can leave a white cast. Choose a broad spectrum SPF of at least 30 and look for a non comedogenic label.27

How long should you wait for improvement?

Do not expect existing acne to disappear overnight after changing sunscreen. Acne treatments can take several weeks to a few months to show a difference; that is a treatment timeline, not a fixed countdown for stopping Relief Sun. See a dermatologist if breakouts keep happening despite gentle care, or if finding the trigger is difficult. Deep, painful, swollen bumps deserve medical attention because inflammatory acne can leave permanent scars. Do not pick or squeeze blemishes, which increases the risk of scarring and further inflammation.124