I snagged this new Lactobacillus sunscreen from an emerging brand during Hwahae's new product shipping deal. For just 5,000 won, I got two full-size products - what a steal!
At 28,000 won for 50ml, it's slightly pricier than mid-range brands, which typically hover around 2.5.
It boasts the highest possible UV protection ratings: SPF50+ for UVB and PA++++ for UVA. Given it was launched after the SPF controversy, we can trust its sun protection claims.
This is a hybrid sunscreen, combining both mineral and chemical UV filters. What sets it apart is its innovative packaging - it looks like a tube but actually has a pump dispenser, similar to the Hera Homme CC cream. While this design is more hygienic, it usually drives up the cost. But at 5,000 won for two, I'm thrilled!
One to two full pumps is enough for application. A single pump covers about a finger joint's worth, while two pumps should suffice for your entire face. The pump makes it easy to control the amount.
The sunscreen has a slight yellow tint. Its texture is more of a fluid emulsion than a cream, likely due to the pump packaging. It spreads incredibly lightly and leaves a subtle glow.
I compared it to the Hwahae favorite, Cell Fusion C's Laser Sunscreen. Unlike Laser Sun's firmer texture, this one is so fluid it runs down your arm. It's much lighter and absorbs faster than the creamier Laser Sun.
Both have excellent skin adhesion and a matte finish, but in daily use, Cell Fusion C feels a bit thicker on the skin, while this one feels lighter.
Over time, the dryness level is similar to or slightly less than Cell Fusion C. It seems to have a lower mineral filter content, resulting in less dryness - sometimes it even feels moisturizing. With my current atopic flare-up, I can't be certain, but it doesn't seem to cause much pilling under makeup.
Due to its lower mineral content, it has less coverage and white cast compared to Cell Fusion C.
If we rate tone-up effect, with Dewytree being full tone-up, Dr.G and Cell Fusion C as half tone-up, this product would be a quarter tone-up.
Finally, let's talk about the star ingredient - Lactobacillus ferment filtrate. Unlike typical 3-in-1 sunscreens that just throw in 2% niacinamide and trace amounts of adenosine, this product lists Lactobacillus ferment filtrate as its first ingredient. It's said to work on dead skin cells and melanin, potentially offering whitening benefits.
You might wonder if a sunscreen applied as the last step can really be effective, but I noticed an improvement in my rough skin texture after just a few days of use. While not as potent as Galactomyces, it's impressive for a sunscreen. After all, the best whitening is sun protection, right?
Unfortunately, this product has solidified. It used to have a milky texture, but now it comes out as a solid. I'm puzzled as to why it hardened, especially since it's in an airtight pump bottle that doesn't allow air in.
It's been 4 months since I opened it. What a disappointment..
I'd recommend this for combination to combination-dehydrated skin types, rather than extremely oily skin. While it has a matte finish, with a good skincare base, even those with dry skin might find it suitable.
