Which Round Lab sunscreen is the Korean version?

How do you tell the versions apart?

Match the protection rating and ingredient list on the actual package, not just the product name or a retailer's photograph. The SPF50+ Birch Juice formula uses Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150, Uvasorb HEB and Tinosorb M. The UVLock SPF45+ ingredient list includes avobenzone, homosalate and octisalate. For an imported tube, follow that tube's directions rather than borrowing directions from another version.123

What does the Korean formula feel like?

Round Lab describes the SPF50+ Birch Juice sunscreen as light, moisturizing and dewy, with a lotion texture intended to work under makeup. Its dewy finish is a cosmetic finish, not a second protection rating hidden in the glow. If you want a moisturizing daily sunscreen rather than a matte finish, that description makes it a reasonable option to consider.1

The SPF50+ formula contains chamomile oil, and Round Lab describes it as having no artificial fragrance. Do not treat that wording as meaning no aromatic plant ingredients. If you already know an ingredient bothers your skin, compare your tube's complete ingredient list before using it.1

What do the protection ratings tell you?

SPF mainly describes protection against UVB, the ultraviolet radiation responsible for sunburn. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB. UVA also contributes to skin ageing and pigmentation, and can pass through clouds and window glass. Round Lab describes the SPF50+ Birch Juice formula as providing broad spectrum protection.134

Both SPF45+ and SPF50+ exceed the general SPF30 minimum recommended for sunscreen selection. The larger number does not tell you how long you can stay outside: SPF measures protection against a dose of sunlight, not a fixed number of hours. Neither version replaces reapplication, clothing or shade, and no sunscreen blocks all ultraviolet radiation.356

How should you apply it?

The following is general sunscreen guidance. For the Korean SPF50+ tube, also follow its own application instructions. Round Lab directs users of UVLock SPF45+ to apply it as the last skincare step, liberally and evenly, 15 minutes before sun exposure.2

1. 1Apply sunscreen before going outdoors. General guidance allows about 15 minutes before sun exposure.
2. 2Use enough to cover the skin thoroughly. For the face, the American Academy of Dermatology advises at least 1 teaspoon.
3. 3Spread sunscreen evenly over exposed skin. Include the ears, neck and hairline rather than stopping at the edge of the face.
4. 4Protect the rest of your exposed body too. Most adults need about 1 ounce for skin not covered by clothing, with more needed depending on body size.
5. 5Reapply every two hours while outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Reapply after towel drying or when sunscreen has rubbed off.

Use sunscreen for outdoor exposure even on cloudy days and in winter. A UV index forecast of 3 or higher is a practical signal to make sunscreen part of your daily routine. Applying a thinner layer reduces protection, so a pleasant texture is useful only if you still apply enough.567

Can you use it for swimming or exercise?

For swimming or sweaty exercise, choose sunscreen explicitly labelled water resistant. Do not infer water resistance from SPF50+, PA++++ or a moisturizing finish. Water resistance is a separate tested property; US labels specify either 40 or 80 minutes. No sunscreen is waterproof, and even water resistant sunscreen needs reapplication after swimming and towel drying.37

When should you stop using it?

Follow your version's warnings. UVLock SPF45+ says not to use it on damaged or broken skin, to keep it out of the eyes, and to stop use and ask a doctor if a rash occurs. Seek medical help for sunburn if you feel unwell or your skin becomes badly swollen or blistered.27

How do you keep the tube usable?

Keep sunscreen out of excessive heat and direct sunlight. While outdoors, keep the container in the shade or wrap it in a towel. Follow the package's expiry and opening instructions, and discard expired sunscreen. If you cannot tell how old a tube is, replace it rather than relying on it for protection.37