Choose original Relief Sun if you prefer a creamier, more dewy sunscreen; choose Aqua-Fresh if you want a lighter, sheerer finish. Both of the European versions compared here are labeled SPF50+ PA++++. The original is now also called Relief Sun: Rice + Niacinamide; Beauty of Joseon says the name changed, not its formula.1 Texture preference, not a supposed SPF winner, is the clearest reason to choose one.
If you have searched for a Beauty of Joseon sunscreen lately, the names can make it look as though three products are competing: Rice + Probiotics, Rice + Niacinamide and Rice + B5. There are two relevant formulas in this comparison. The first two names refer to original Relief Sun; Rice + B5 is the distinct Aqua-Fresh product.
This is a research-based comparison of the brand's SPF50+ PA++++ listings for European shoppers. We did not wear-test the two sunscreens. Check the packaging in your country, because a review of one market's sunscreen cannot automatically describe every regional version.
Relief Sun versus Aqua-Fresh at a glance
| Question | Original Relief Sun | Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh |
|---|---|---|
| Current name | Rice + Niacinamide; formerly Rice + Probiotics | Rice + B5 |
| Brand-described feel | Creamier, more nourishing and dewy | Lighter, more sheer and fresh |
| Highlighted ingredients | Rice extract, niacinamide, ferment extracts | Rice seed water, panthenol (B5) |
| Labeled protection | SPF50+ PA++++ | SPF50+ PA++++ |
| Likely first choice | Normal to dry skin, or anyone who enjoys glow | Combination to oily skin, or anyone who dislikes rich sunscreen |
The finish descriptions are Beauty of Joseon's positioning, not a controlled head-to-head wear study. Your moisturizer, climate and application amount can change how either one feels.3
Did Beauty of Joseon change the original Relief Sun formula?
Beauty of Joseon says it renamed Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics to Relief Sun: Rice + Niacinamide and that the formula, ingredients and size stayed the same.1 If you liked the original and find a newly labeled tube, the name alone is not evidence of a reformulation. Still compare your pack's ingredient list if you have a known sensitivity.
The change also helps explain a common misunderstanding: the original already contained niacinamide. “Probiotics” in the old name was never a claim that the formula contained live yogurt cultures. Its INCI lists several fermented extracts, while the new name foregrounds niacinamide. Aqua-Fresh remains a different formula, so don't treat “B5” as a replacement name for the old sunscreen.
Which feels better on oily or dry skin?
For oily or combination skin, Aqua-Fresh is the more sensible first sample. The brand describes it as weightless and less rich. If the original feels shiny over your moisturizer, changing to a lighter sunscreen can be easier than trying to powder away a finish you dislike.
For normal or dry skin, original Relief Sun is the more natural first sample if you enjoy a cream-like sunscreen. “Dewy” can look comfortable on one face and overly shiny on another. Even a rich sunscreen may not replace moisturizer when your skin is very dry.
Neither product is guaranteed not to pill, sting eyes or break someone out. Those outcomes depend on individual tolerance and what is layered underneath. Our original Relief Sun review goes deeper into that formula, and our eye-stinging guide explains why a sunscreen can be comfortable on cheeks but uncomfortable near eyes.
What do rice, niacinamide and B5 actually tell you?
The original INCI lists niacinamide relatively early, alongside rice extract and fermented botanical ingredients. Aqua-Fresh lists rice seed water near the top and panthenol (vitamin B5) in its published ingredients.12 Aqua-Fresh's cited European list does not list niacinamide; that can matter if you are specifically avoiding it. Check the exact box you buy because ingredient lists can change.
Those highlighted ingredients may help describe the formulas, but they are not a reason to ignore the sunscreen function. No ingredient in the product name proves that a formula is suitable for all sensitive skin. Conversely, the mere presence of a fermented extract does not establish that it will trigger acne. Make your decision around your actual sensitivities, texture preference and consistent use.
Both pages publish UV-filter lists. They are different formulations, yet that does not justify ranking one as “stronger” from the ingredient list alone. The labeled SPF and PA ratings are the comparable claims; real protection also depends on sufficient application and reapplication.
Are they equally protective?
They carry the same SPF50+ PA++++ labels in the versions examined. This does not prove identical performance under every condition, and a thin layer can undermine either product. The American Academy of Dermatology advises applying sunscreen generously and reapplying about every two hours outdoors, and after swimming or sweating according to the product instructions.4
For beach days, exercise or prolonged water exposure, look for an explicitly water-resistant sunscreen with a stated duration on your local pack. Do not infer water resistance from a high SPF number or a pleasant texture.
Our buying verdict
Start with original Relief Sun when a dewy, moisturizing feel is what makes you apply enough sunscreen every morning. Start with Aqua-Fresh when you want a lighter layer or already find original Relief Sun too rich. If either one burns, pills badly or makes you reluctant to apply a full layer, choose a sunscreen you can wear comfortably instead.
There is no universal winner. A product that works with your routine and gets used consistently is the better practical purchase. Before buying, check the regional label, expiry and seller authenticity, particularly where the familiar “Rice + Probiotics” wording is being replaced.
Quick questions
Is Rice + Niacinamide a new sunscreen?
No. Beauty of Joseon says it renamed the original Rice + Probiotics Relief Sun without changing that formula.
Does Aqua-Fresh have a higher SPF?
No. The two European products compared here are both labeled SPF50+ PA++++.
Which one should oily skin try first?
Aqua-Fresh is the lighter, sheerer option according to the brand; individual finish and tolerance can still vary.
Sources and method
Sources checked October 10, 2026. Manufacturer descriptions are identified as such; practical conclusions are editorial interpretation. The banner is an AI-generated editorial illustration.
- Beauty of Joseon — original Relief Sun product, INCI and name change.
- Beauty of Joseon — Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh product and INCI.
- Beauty of Joseon — brand comparison of Relief Sun and Aqua-Fresh.
- American Academy of Dermatology — sunscreen selection and application.
This article is educational guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Ask a qualified professional about persistent symptoms or procedure suitability.
Hot girls read the research. ♡