Opinion
The ultimate facial sunscreen comparison – part 1
by Natalie Hemengül
The ultimate facial sunscreen comparison – part 2
17.7.2025
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Pictures: Natalie Hemengül
In this two-part review series, I’ll be putting eight liquid facial sunscreens to the test. In the second and last part of the series, one product really disappointed while the others were middle-of-the-road.
What morning coffee is to some, the daily application of sunscreen is to me. No exception. But with so much choice, it’s not easy to find a product that meets all my requirements. My UV protection needs to be absorbed quickly, shouldn’t be greasy and must work with my make-up. Fragrances? No thanks. Every year, I test my way through a bunch of new and long-established sun creams from our range and then give my two cents on them here. I’ve even got my own rating system. One sun stands for «Could I have a serious word with the product developer, please?», five suns for perfection.
I tested a total of eight products for this two-part series. I’ve already introduced you to four of them in my first article. One of them was perfect:
That leaves four.
Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
Protection: LSF 50+, UVB & UVA (PA+++)
Filter type: mineral + chemical
I like the plain, flat tube. The consistency of the moisturising cream resembles runny, semi-whipped cream. Despite its mineral filters, it blends in very easily (at least with my skin tone) without leaving a white film. The velvety finish works perfectly with my make-up. Aloe vera extracts are also said to soothe the skin. I deducted points for the medium-strong perfume (soapy) and the comparatively low UVA protection (three instead of four possible plus signs).
Suitable for dry skin according to Cosrx.
☀️☀️☀️
Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense Protection
Protection: SPF 30, UVB + UVA (PA+++)
Filter type: mineral
Sadly, this cream didn’t work at all for me. Although the thick, grainy texture can be worked in relatively well when you use small quantities, applying sufficient amounts turned my face into a ghostly white mask that sat heavily on my skin. Not to mention the many small, white lumps. It’s no secret that mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast. What’s interesting, though, is that Drunk Elephant says its cream works on all skin colours. I have my doubts.
The smell takes some getting used to because the cream doesn’t contain any fragrances, but that’s totally fine. The screw cap’s pretty, but also a bit awkward. Overall, the product’s just a bit of a pain. With all the work you have to put in, I’d at least like a sun protection factor of 50 and higher UVA protection.
According to Drunk Elephant, this product is suitable for all skin types.
☀️
Sherpa Tensing Mattifying Sun Fluid
Protection: LSF 50, UVB + UVA
Filter type: chemical
I could’ve sworn this one contained mineral UV filters. But I can only see chemical filters in the formula – and they’re also very difficult to work in. With a little patience, I can almost completely get rid of the white cast. This waterproof cream is designed to mattify. But my skin’s having none of it. It’s beaming. Not in a greasy way, but pretty intensely nonetheless. Sherpa Tensing describes their product as the «perfect base for make-up». Immediately after applying make-up, I agree with the statement. But after just an hour, my foundation’s no longer looking amazing. This one gets points from me for its pleasant-smelling, fragrance-free formula. By the way, the cream’s also meant to prevent pigment spots and lighten existing ones over time.
If you have fair, dry skin and like to go about your daily life make-up free, this fluid is definitely a solid Swiss-made sunscreen. For my needs, however, it’s not a perfect match.
Sherpa Tensing does not provide any information on skin type.
☀️☀️☀️
Sunscreen
−15%
only 8 of 9 remaining on sale
CHF16.70 was CHF19.70 CHF334.–/1l
Sherpa Tensing Sun Fluid Anti-Aging
Sun cream face, SPF 50, 50 ml, 68 g
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Moist Sun Serum
Protection: LSF 50+, UVB + UVA (PA++++)
Filter type: chemical
This product is no serum, that’s for sure. Its consistency is neither liquid nor does it absorb quickly. On the contrary. The yellowish-green sunscreen in a pump bottle is a solid gel that sticks to my skin like a heavy balm after applying two finger lengths. Greasy? Not really. Sticky? Yeah, in a way. My skin looks very shiny at first. Almost as if it were wet. This finish wears off after a while. But it’s only after 40 minutes that I dare apply some make-up over it. And the make-up looks good, even hours later. The serum contains ginseng extract, which is designed to superficially plump out wrinkles. This one’s fragrances free and has a pleasant odour. I recommend this moisturising product if you’re patient and have dry skin, as it’s extremely rich.
According to Beauty of Joseon, it’s suitable for all skin types.
☀️☀️☀️☀️
A little reminder: We all have different skin types, with different needs. A product that’s too rich for me could well be a blessing for someone with dry skin. So take all of my sun ratings with a pinch of salt.
Header image: Natalie Hemengül
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
Beauty
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