SPF I Actually Enjoy
Declan Kennedy
| 04-09-2026
· Fashion TeamI used to treat sunscreen as the annoying final step of skincare: necessary, but rarely enjoyable. These three changed that for me.
They all give strong daily protection, but the textures and finishes feel noticeably different, so I now choose between them depending on how my skin is behaving and what I’m wearing on top.
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
My Hydrating Everyday Pick
This is the sunscreen I reach for when my skin feels dehydrated or slightly tight. I love how light and fluid it feels compared with thicker SPF creams. It spreads quickly, settles comfortably and gives my skin a fresh, hydrated finish rather than a heavy layer sitting on top.
The formula contains hyaluronic acid, and that matches the way it feels on my skin: much more like a moisturising skincare step than traditional sunscreen. I especially like using it on days when I want a healthy glow underneath makeup. It also doesn’t make me feel like I need to rush through application before it starts dragging.
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For me, this is the easiest option when comfort is the priority.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun
The One I Forget I’m Wearing
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is probably the most effortless of the three. The texture feels creamy but surprisingly lightweight, and I love how naturally it blends into my routine.
What makes me keep reaching for it is the finish. My skin looks moisturised without becoming excessively shiny, and makeup sits nicely on top. It feels particularly good when I want a sunscreen that behaves almost like a regular face cream.
I also appreciate that it doesn’t leave me constantly aware that I’m wearing SPF. Once it settles, I mostly forget about it, which is exactly what I want from an everyday sunscreen.
Axis-Y Complete No-Stress Physical Sunscreen
My More Protective-Feeling Option
This one feels different because it is a physical sunscreen. I notice a slightly more substantial texture compared with the first two, so I tend to use it when I want that more traditional sunscreen feel.
The formula includes mugwort, niacinamide and squalane, and I find it comfortable when my skin needs something gentle rather than overly active. I usually apply it in thinner layers and give it a little extra time to settle.
Out of these three, Isntree is my hydration favourite, Beauty of Joseon is my effortless everyday choice, and Axis-Y is the one I pick when I want a physical SPF. Having options has honestly made daily sunscreen much easier for me.