Whenever I come across a good sunscreen, I’m reminded that I most likely wouldn’t be applying sun protection daily if it weren’t for Korean sunscreens. The textures are simply unmatched, and I love that they use superior newer-generation UV filters. In this post, I’m reviewing the ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++, which has gained so much popularity over the last year.

Since trying their Hyaluronic Acid Toner, I’ve wanted to explore more from the brand, and so far, I have only been pleasantly surprised. Also, check out my reviews on their C-Niacin Toning Ampoule and Onion Newpair Essence Toner.

What is it: An organic (chemical) sunscreen.

Where to buy: You can find this at Yesstyle (You can use KBEAUTYNOTES for % off your order), Stylevana US / Stylevana EU, Stylekorean, Jolse.

Price: $17-$23

Volume: 50ml (1.69 fl.oz.)

Application

Apply the sunscreen generously as the last step of your morning skincare routine and before makeup. Wait 10-15 minutes before makeup application so the sunscreen has time to set and form an even film on the skin.

ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel sunscreen

How does the ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel perform

Protection:
SPF50+ PA++++ (verified SPF 53.5 and PFA 19.4 PA++++ by Korea Institute of Dermatological Sciences)

Texture and finish:
Lightweight, lotion-like texture but not runny. It glides very easily on the skin and applies thinly.

The finish is on the dewy side. Right after application, it sits more dewy than I’d like, and I was taken aback when I first saw it, but after a couple of minutes, it becomes more satin-like on me. Usually, with western sunscreens, if they’re on the dewy side, they most likely are greasy and sticky too. However, this one has zero stickiness and no greasy feeling.

On the contrary, it sits silky smooth on the skin. Looks so good when using makeup that is not overly moisturizing/oily but has a satin, semi-matte finish. I absolutely love how this looks under my Missha BB Cream.

Does it contain alcohol?
No.

Fragrance/Scent?
No. The Isntree sunscreen is free of synthetic fragrances and essential oils. Ideal for sensitive skin types.

ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel sunscreen review

Is it drying?

No. The moisture it provides is long-lasting, and you wouldn’t even need to apply a separate morning moisturizer under it. Skin doesn’t become tight or dull-looking at the end of the day. It would be perfect for those whose skin is prone to dryness. In addition, it doesn’t sit on fine lines but fills them in and gives the skin a plump appearance.

Does it leave a white cast?
No.

Irritation or breakouts?
No irritation occurred. On the contrary, I can feel it keeps the redness on my cheeks under control. Regarding breakouts, I haven’t gotten any. And I’ve also gone to bed without removing it a couple of times (which you shouldn’t do), but this has reassured me that this would be great for acne-prone skin.

Easy to re-apply?
Yes. It doesn’t pill. If you have normal skin and the sunscreen over time becomes more dewy than you’d like, you can always blot beforehand.

ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel sunscreen texture

How does it work with makeup?
It works so well as a base, and makeup looks beautiful over it. With this sunscreen, my bb cream lasts much longer on me during the day. It comes due to the sunscreen’s excellent adherence to the skin and the bb cream not being on the oily side, so it doesn’t separate or get cakey.

Does it sting the eyes?
No eye stinging, even with generous application over the eyelids.

Ingredients

Isntree sunscreen UV filters – Ethylhexyl Salicylate (UVB), Homosalate (UVB), Tinosorb S (broad spectrum), Tinosorb M (broad spectrum), Parsol SLX (Polysilicone-15) (UVB), Uvinul A Plus (UVA).

Niacinamide – multi-functional ingredient with benefits such as anti-aging, skin lightening, anti-inflammatory, and barrier repair.

Antioxidants and soothing ingredients: Centella Asiatica Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract.

8 types of Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide NP, Glycerin.

Free of alcohol and fragrance.

Water, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Homosalate, Dibutyl Adipate, Niacinamide, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Cyclopentasiloxane, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Polysilicone-15, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Ceramide NP, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycerin, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceteth-10, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Decyl Glucoside, Propanediol, Tocopherol, Astaxanthin, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Acrylates/​C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Adenosine, Xanthan Gum, Cetyl PEG/​PPG-10/​1 Dimethicone, Tromethamine, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin


Final Verdict on the ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel

Pros

  • Provides long-lasting moisture.
  • Dewy finish but is not tacky.
  • It doesn’t pill.
  • It doesn’t sting the eyes.
  • No white cast.
  • Most suitable for normal to dry skin types, combo skin in winter, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
  • Creates a beautiful base for makeup.
  • Free of alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils.
  • Vegan and cruelty-free.

Cons

  • Not suitable for oily skin types (especially in hot, humid weather!).

The Isntree sunscreen is as close to perfect as it gets. I seriously have nothing bad to say about it. It would work for all skin types except for oily skin that may find it too dewy or may get greasy after a couple of hours. So, if you’re oily and live somewhere hot and humid, it’s better to look for other options. However, it will work great for normal skin and anyone prone to dryness, acne, or sensitive skin. Also, if you prefer a silky smooth finish and a healthy glow. I like that I don’t need to apply a separate moisturizer with this, so the morning routine can be kept simple. If you’ve been meaning to get this, go for it! Highly recommend it!


Did you find this ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel Review helpful? What’s your current go-to sunscreen?


*PR Sample – kindly gifted by Isntree, but opinions are completely my own.
*Affiliate Links – It means I may earn a small commission when you purchase a product through the links I have provided at no extra cost to you. Sincerely thankful to all of you that support my blog! For more information, see Disclosure Policy.