The original Relief Sun and Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh are both SPF50+ PA++++ sunscreens from Beauty of Joseon, and both are designed to be worn daily. The main difference is texture and finish: Relief Sun is a light cream with a natural, slightly dewy finish, while Aqua-Fresh has a more watery, fresh feel that many people with oily skin or those living in humid conditions prefer.
If you have normal to dry skin, start with Relief Sun. If you are oily or dislike any dewy shine, try Aqua-Fresh.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Relief Sun | Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh |
|---|---|---|
| SPF / PA rating | SPF50+ PA++++ | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Hero ingredients | Rice extract, grain ferments | Rice, panthenol (vitamin B5) |
| Texture | Light cream | Watery, gel-like feel |
| Finish | Natural, slightly dewy | Fresher, lighter feel |
| Often preferred by | Normal, dry and combination skin | Oily skin, hot or humid days |
Relief Sun: the original
Relief Sun is one of Beauty of Joseon’s best-known products. It is a light cream that spreads easily and usually leaves little to no white cast for most users. The finish is comfortable rather than matte, so it can double as a light moisturizing step on normal skin. Our full Relief Sun review covers who it suits in detail.
Choose Relief Sun if
- Your skin is normal, dry or combination.
- You like a skin-like glow.
- You want a sunscreen that feels hydrating in dry Canadian winters.
Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh: the lighter option
Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh keeps the rice theme and adds panthenol (vitamin B5), an ingredient often used for its soothing and hydrating feel. The texture is more watery, which many users describe as refreshing, particularly in summer.
Choose Aqua-Fresh if
- Your skin gets shiny by midday.
- You find cream sunscreens too rich.
- You want something that feels light under makeup.
Which works better under makeup?
Both can work under makeup. Give either one a few minutes to settle before applying foundation. Oily-skin users may find Aqua-Fresh gives a smoother base, while dry-skin users often prefer Relief Sun’s cushion. For touch-ups during the day, many people use the Matte Sun Stick over makeup; see our Matte Sun Stick review.
How much sunscreen should you use?
Whichever you choose, the amount matters more than the formula. A common guide for the face and neck is about two finger-lengths of product, or roughly a quarter teaspoon for the face. Using less means less protection than the label states. Apply as the last step of your morning routine and reapply every two hours outdoors, after swimming and after sweating or towelling off.
Seasonal strategy for Canada
Many Canadians switch between the two:
- Winter: Relief Sun, because indoor heating and cold wind make skin drier. UV also reflects off snow, so do not skip it on ski days. Read our winter sunscreen guide.
- Summer: Aqua-Fresh for hot, humid days, especially in cities like Toronto and Montreal.
Are they suitable for sensitive skin?
Sensitivity is personal. Both formulas are popular with people who find some sunscreens irritating, but that does not guarantee they will suit you. Patch test before full use, especially around the eyes. If a sunscreen stings your eyes, apply it slightly further from the eye area.
A note for Canadian buyers
Health Canada regulates sunscreens, and products authorised for sale in Canada carry a DIN or NPN number. Many imported Korean sunscreens are sold internationally without one. Check the label if Canadian authorisation matters to you, and always buy from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeits (see our guide on spotting fakes).
Verdict
There is no wrong choice; both are SPF50+ PA++++ daily sunscreens with the same core goal. Pick by finish: Relief Sun for a comfortable, gently dewy feel, and Aqua-Fresh for a lighter, fresher feel on oily skin or in summer heat.
How to test which one suits you
If you are unsure, try a simple side-by-side test. Patch test both on the jawline for a few days first. Then, on a normal day, apply Relief Sun on one half of your face and Aqua-Fresh on the other, using the same amount. Check at midday: which side looks shinier, which side feels more comfortable, and how does makeup look on each? Most people quickly notice a preference.
Remember that your needs can change through the year. Oily skin in July can feel quite different in January, so it is perfectly reasonable to keep one of each and switch with the seasons. Whatever you choose, the habit of applying enough sunscreen every morning matters far more than the exact formula.
Where to buy in Canada
See both on our product pages with full details and current Canadian buying options: Relief Sun and Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh. Need something for reapplication? Check the Matte Sun Stick.
FAQ
Is Aqua-Fresh more matte than Relief Sun?
It feels lighter and fresher, which many oily-skin users prefer. If you want a truly matte finish for touch-ups, the Matte Sun Stick is designed for that.
Can I use Relief Sun as a moisturizer?
On normal or oily skin, some people find it hydrating enough on its own. Dry skin usually benefits from a moisturizer underneath.
Do these sunscreens leave a white cast?
Most users report little to no white cast with either one. Results vary with skin tone and the amount applied.
Which one is better for acne-prone skin?
Many acne-prone users prefer Aqua-Fresh because of its lighter feel, but both can work. Patch test and introduce one new product at a time.