I've been curious about the Houttuynia Cordata sunscreen for a while, and I finally got to try it out.
First, let me explain my rating system: on a scale of 5.0, anything below 2.5 points falls under 'areas for improvement,' while 2.6 and above are 'positive aspects.'
Please note that this review reflects my personal opinion. Everyone's preferences, skin texture, condition, and external factors can vary, so your experience might differ!
Before we dive in, I'm a woman in my early 30s with sensitive combination dehydrated skin.
Now, let's get to the review!
Overall score and summary: ♥ A sunscreen with good ingredients and a light texture. It might be a bit dry for those with dry skin (though probably fine in summer). The oil content is moderate, but extremely oily skin types might find it slightly greasy. Consider your skin type before purchasing.
One-line review: Recommended for combination dehydrated skin ♥
Total score: 4.3/5.0
Positive aspects:
1. Ingredients (4.5/5.0)
Apart from the UV filters, all ingredients boast an EWG grade of 1. It seems suitable for those with sensitive skin. However, zinc oxide (a UV filter) may clog pores, so please be aware of this. (As it's a mineral sunscreen ingredient, it should be fine unless you're sensitive to mineral sunscreens.)
2. Minimal white cast (4.1/5.0)
Many mineral sunscreens leave a strong white cast or grayish tint, but this product has the least white cast among the mineral sunscreens I've tried. There's a slight glow and very subtle brightening effect right after application, but as it absorbs, the glow fades and leaves an almost imperceptible brightening effect.
It should be suitable for men to use as well.
3. Application (4.8/5.0)
It applies smoothly and feels refreshing. After a few gentle rubs, it absorbs without residue, almost like an emulsion. This is one of the product's biggest strengths.
4. Non-sticky (3.9/5.0)
Some products can feel sticky, but this one has a nice balance of hydration and oil content. It doesn't feel sticky on my skin and has a very light finish without feeling like you're not wearing anything.
5. Fragrance-free & Scent (3.5/5.0)
I'm sensitive to fragrances but also dislike strange smells. This product has a herbal scent with hints of Innisfree's cherry blossom tone-up cream and a slight earthy note (not a pleasant one). It seems the scent comes from oils and extracts rather than added fragrances. Considering it's fragrance-free, the scent is quite tolerable.
6. Container opening (3.0/5.0)
The thin, long opening makes it easy to control the amount dispensed. I didn't think much of it at first, but it's more convenient than products that dispense too much at once.
7. High SPF (4.5/5.0)
It's SPF50 PA++++. Some gentle sunscreens have lower SPF, but this one provides sufficient protection even on days with high UV levels.
8. Price & Accessibility (4.0/5.0)
The original price is around $20, but you can find it online for $10-15. It's also easily available in Olive Young stores, making it both accessible and good value for money.
Areas for improvement:
1. Volume (2.5/5.0)
50ml isn't particularly small, but given that I'm applying it generously every day in summer, I wish there was a larger size available.
2. Hydration (2.0/5.0)
Despite claiming to have a good oil-moisture balance, the hydration level isn't quite sufficient. If you use this product in winter, it might feel a bit dry.
The formulation is good, but the overall moisture content seems low. I'd recommend it for combination dehydrated skin in spring and summer, but in winter, you'll need to focus on a solid skincare routine.
3. Compatibility with foundation (2.5/5.0)
It doesn't work well with matte foundations. It doesn't pill or affect application (it applies well), but it can dry out quickly. If you use this product, I recommend using a cushion or hydrating foundation, especially if you have deep dryness. However, it doesn't interfere with application or cause pilling, so it's still decent.
(For reference, I use a semi-matte foundation from Espoir VIB)
It's best not to use this with matte foundations. It works well with moisturizing cushions or hydrating foundations.
