I discovered the A24 Protection Sunscreen and Round Lab Sunscreen while shopping for sunscreen around May 31, 2019. I decided to purchase the Round Lab 365 Sunscreen first.
Gold Medal for Application:
As of December 7, 2019, I'm using the Round A'Round Sun Emulsion from Olive Young as my sunscreen. (Though it's not quite holy grail status as of February 15, 2020.)
During summer, I used the Round Lab 365 Sunscreen, alternating with the Dr. Alga Sunscreen (which has since been reformulated to a mineral sunscreen).
The application of both Round A'Round and Round Lab is definitely superior. Being emulsion-based, they spread smoothly. However, the issue of makeup-like smearing over time is something you'll need to address yourself.
(I've learned that sunscreens containing only titanium dioxide tend to be oily. Thanks to Ria Yu for this information!)
Application ranking: Round A'Round ≤ Round Lab >> Dr. Alga
Silver Medal for Scent:
The two sunscreens I truly love for their scent are the aforementioned Round A'Round Sun Emulsion and Round Lab 365 Sunscreen. They have a lovely lemony scent that I adore.
Silver Medal for No Dryness:
If you maintain a solid moisturizing routine before application, you should be fine.
My routine is:
Toner (recommend a watery one) -> Emulsion + Jojoba Oil -> Moisturizer + Sunscreen
It worked well for me when I tried it.
Gold Medal for Texture:
It's pure white! Given its texture, this sunscreen is perfect for summer use.
Unless you're in Australia or somewhere with extremely strong UV rays (I've heard they sell SPF 70 PA+++++ there, which must be quite harsh on the skin),
this product with its high SPF and PA rating is more than enough to keep summer UV worries at bay.
For reference, SPF indicates protection against UVB rays, while PA indicates protection against UVA rays.
UVB rays cause sunburn and redness, while UVA rays are responsible for issues like dark spots and freckles.
(For example, SPF50 provides about 4 hours of protection, while SPF30 provides about 2 hours.)
However, higher SPF and PA ratings aren't always better, as they can be more burdensome on the skin. Proper cleansing is just as important as application!
In my opinion, SPF30 PA++ is sufficient for staying indoors or brief outings, especially in winter.
For summer, SPF50 PA++++ should be enough.
Even in summer, if you're staying indoors, SPF30 is adequate.
Remember, UVA rays can reach you even indoors when the sun is up, so wearing sunscreen is always important!
Gold Medal for No Blemishes:
As long as you cleanse properly with a cleansing water, oil, or foam, you shouldn't worry about blemishes!
I didn't experience any blemishes from the sunscreen itself, though I did notice an increase in pores and milia due to my lack of proper cleansing knowledge at the time.
Actually, I've been really stressed about milia recently. I wonder if it's because I'm not using chemical exfoliants? I'm a bit scared to try them...
Some reviews mention an increase in moles, and I'm nervous about trying new products like sunscreen that I've never used before.
After trying The Ordinary AHA product and Beplain BHA Peeling Ampoule, I found they helped with milia but not so much with pores.
I do use Sidmool Green Tea Peeling Gel, a physical exfoliant, but it has its limitations as it only removes surface dead skin cells.
I'm looking for a chemical exfoliant - if any experts have tips, please share!
Update: The issue seems to have improved somewhat as of February 15, 2020.
Gold Medal for Tone-Up Effect:
It definitely brightens your complexion! I have naturally fair skin, and this sunscreen brightens it by 0.5 to 1 tone.
Of course, nothing beats the Innisfree Jeju Cherry Blossom Tone-Up Cream for tone-up effects, but its fragrance can be divisive.
When I used that tone-up cream, my skin looked even brighter the next day!
However, the fragrance was a bit overwhelming, it rubbed off easily, and the staying power was lacking.
Gold Medal for Staying Power:
One of the main reasons I compare Dr. Alga Sunscreen with Round Lab 365 Sunscreen is their staying power, lack of blemishes, and scent.
I'm disappointed that the A24 Sunscreen has been reformulated.
It used to be a combination of mineral and chemical filters, but I never tried it myself.
Recently, it's been reformulated into a purely mineral sunscreen, removing shea butter and lavender oil, which were problematic for sensitive and oily skin types.
However, this change seems to have backfired...
After using Dr. Alga consistently, I noticed milia, an overwhelming scent, excessive smearing, and a grayish cast on my face.
The Round Lab 365 Sunscreen, on the other hand, lasts about 4 hours.
It doesn't itch or feel burdensome on the skin, and most importantly, it didn't cause any blemishes.
Its staying power is better compared to others, which is why it scores high in my book!
I bought the Round A'Round Sun Emulsion to replace the A24 Sunscreen.
Although I bought it for winter use, I suspect it might be too heavy for winter skin, so I'm planning to order the Isntree Family Sun Mate (SPF30 PA++).
There are only 5 reviews for it though, so I'm curious if anyone has tried it!
I'm also open to other sunscreen recommendations.
Update: The Isntree one is very thick... I recommend looking for alternatives. (Updated February 15, 2020)
This product is perfect for summer use!
However, being a mineral sunscreen, it's not recommended before makeup or skincare.
I'll update or add information as needed.
Thank you all for reading my review, despite my lacking writing skills!
Regarding price versus quantity:
Plan ahead for next spring's events, use Hwahae for discounts, or check out Auction and Coupang for cost-effective options.
Instagram promotions are worth keeping an eye on these days (though buying on-site is usually not the best choice unless you're in a hurry).
The Hwahae Testers events can be great, but it's uncertain if they'll have one.
Dryness based on skin type:
As someone with slightly oily to normal skin, I'm not entirely sure, but those with dry skin might experience flaking and dryness.
Try mixing it with a facial oil or ensure a thorough moisturizing routine before applying.
Proper amount control is crucial.
Apply small amounts, about the size of a fingertip, to your skin.
Then spread it evenly.
You can either spread it with your hands or gently pat it in.
Alternatively, use a puff dampened with mist or toner.
