ROUND LAB Birch Juice SPF 50+ Review: Why This Korean Sunscreen Is a Must-Have

Okay, let’s talk sunscreen. You know that one skincare step you shouldn’t skip, like, ever? Yup, it’s sunscreen. And if you're anything like me, finding one that actually feels good on your skin is a bit of a mission. Well, after trying quite a few over the years, I’ve finally found a go-to that I’ve been reaching for constantly: the ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen.

I’ve been using this one for over a year now, and guess what? I test and try a lot of sunscreens and I’m already on my second tube of this one. That alone should tell you something.

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First Impressions? So Good

Let’s start from the beginning. You know how some sunscreens make you dread applying them because they feel heavy or greasy? This isn’t one of those.

The first thing I noticed was the packaging. It comes in this clean, minimalistic white tube that looks really pretty on your vanity or skincare shelf. But it's not just cute, it’s super practical too. Easy to squeeze, not messy at all, and great for travel or tossing into your bag for reapplication.

When you open it, there’s a slight sunscreen-y scent. Nothing too strong or annoying, just that familiar SPF smell, but way more subtle. The texture? Oh, I love it. It’s a light, creamy white lotion that spreads like a dream. It melts into the skin so quickly and doesn’t leave any white cast. None. And trust me, with my sensitive combination skin, that’s major.

Let’s Talk Skin (Because Mine Can Be Tricky)

So here’s the deal, my skin is sensitive, a little oily in the T-zone, and drier on the cheeks. I also deal with hyperpigmentation and freckles, which means I take sun protection super seriously. I’m all about reapplying SPF throughout the day, and this one has been my go-to for that.

It never made me break out or feel itchy, which is something I’m always wary of with new sunscreens. You know how some SPFs just sit on top of your skin or clog your pores after a long day? Yeah, not here. This one feels more like skincare than sunscreen, and it plays really nicely with everything else in my routine.

ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen Ingredients 

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because I know you might be curious about what’s actually in this sunscreen. 

The ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen is packed with skin-loving ingredients like birch sap, which helps soothe and hydrate, and niacinamide, which is great for brightening and strengthening the skin barrier. It also includes adenosine for a bit of wrinkle care, and glycerin for that lightweight hydration. 

The UV filters include Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, and Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine—all commonly used, effective chemical filters that provide broad-spectrum protection without the heavy feel. 

Other gentle ingredients like panthenol, allantoin, and madecassoside help calm the skin, making this formula ideal even if you’re on the sensitive side (like me!). No heavy oils, no alcohol, and no artificial fragrances, just a blend that actually feels good on your skin.

Under Makeup? Yes, Please

If you’re into makeup, here’s some good news: this sunscreen works beautifully under foundation or BB cream. Because it’s so hydrating, it actually preps your skin nicely, kind of like a dewy primer.

There’s no piling or weird texture. It smooths out the skin and gives you a nice, soft base to work with. I’ve worn it under both lightweight and more full-coverage foundations, and it just works. So if you’re trying to cut down your routine a bit, this is a great way to sneak in both moisture and sun protection in one step.

All-Year Staple (Not Just for Summer)

A lot of people still think sunscreen is only for sunny days or summer vacations, but nope, we need it all year round. UVA rays don’t take a break in winter, and honestly, I love how this sunscreen feels during colder months too.

It gives my skin just the right amount of hydration without feeling heavy or greasy, so I keep using it no matter the season. Plus, it never messes with my other products, which makes it super easy to keep in my routine.

Great for All Skin Types (Seriously)

Now, I don’t like to say a product is perfect for everyone, but this one comes close. Whether you’ve got dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, I think you’ll get along with this sunscreen. It’s gentle, doesn’t sting (even around the eyes), and really feels like something anyone could use.

Oh, and here’s a fun fact: this sunscreen is super popular in Korea. Like, really popular. And when skincare lovers there rave about something, I definitely pay attention.

How I Apply It (And Why You Shouldn’t Skip This Step)

When it comes to sunscreen, amount matters. I like to use the “two-finger” method, basically, squeezing out a line of cream along two fingers, then applying it to my face and neck. Don’t forget the neck! It’s one of those places we often miss but gets just as much sun.

And yes, reapplying is key. I usually reapply in the afternoon if I’ve been out and about. Since this sunscreen doesn’t leave any residue or buildup, reapplying is actually no big deal. Sometimes I use a cushion or SPF mist over it when I’m wearing makeup, but if I’m bare-faced, I’ll just reapply straight from the tube.

What I Love Most

Let me break it down real quick, here’s what makes this sunscreen a repeat buy for me:

• Light, creamy texture that absorbs quickly
• No white cast at all
• Gentle on sensitive skin (no breakouts or irritation)
• Works well under makeup
• Hydrating enough to double as a moisturizer
• Travel-friendly tube
• Perfect for daily, year-round use

Anything I Didn’t Love?

To be totally honest, I’m always a little cautious with sunscreens because some can clog pores or leave my skin feeling off by the end of the day. But this one? Never gave me that problem.

That said, if you’re someone who prefers a completely matte finish, this sunscreen might feel a little too dewy. For me, I like that fresh glow it gives. But if you’re really oily, you might want to top it with a light powder.

So, Should You Try It?

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that feels like skincare, doesn’t mess with your makeup, and keeps your skin happy, I’d definitely recommend giving the ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen a shot.

It’s one of those products that quietly does everything right, and before you know it, you’re repurchasing your second tube without even thinking twice.

What do you think, have you tried it? Or do you have a sunscreen that you swear by? I’m always curious about what others are using.

Let’s keep our skin protected and happy, all year long. 💛