ROUND LAB vs. mixsoon vs. EltaMD: The Ultimate Sunscreen Showdown for 2024
Choosing the right daily sunscreen is one of the most important, yet confusing, steps in any skincare routine. You want powerful protection without the dreaded white cast, a greasy feel, or pilling under makeup. This comparison is for anyone torn between these three highly-rated favorites: the hydrating Korean beauty of ROUND LAB, the lightweight ‘glass skin’ promise of mixsoon, and the dermatologist-beloved, sensitive skin hero EltaMD.
We’ll break down each formula based on real user experiences, focusing on the key factors that matter most: texture and finish, performance for different skin types, potential for irritation, and overall value. By the end, you’ll know exactly which SPF is your perfect match.
Quick Comparison at a Glance
| Product | Rating (/5) | Key Feature | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing UV LOCK SPF 45 | NBC No1 SPF, Glow Sunscreen for Daily Skincare, Non-toxic, UV Protection, Lightweight, Oil-Free, Organic, Korean Sunscreen (1.69 Fl Oz) | ~4.5/5 | Hydrating Birch Juice Formula | Dry & Dehydrated Skin | No white cast, moisturizing, dewy glow | Can be too dewy for oily skin |
| mixsoon Bean Sunscreen 1.69 Fl. Oz. / 50ml SPF 50 Airy Texture Type Lightweight No White Cast For Face Korean Glass Skin Care | ~4.3/5 | Airy, Lightweight Texture | Oily & Combination Skin | Truly weightless, matte-finish, no cast | Less moisturizing for dry skin |
| EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46, Oil-Free Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide, Dermatologist Recommended | ~4.7/5 | Niacinamide & Zinc for Sensitive Skin | Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin | Calms redness, non-comedogenic, trusted | Premium price, can pill if layered heavily |
In-Depth Product Reviews
ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing UV LOCK SPF 45
Users consistently praise this sunscreen for its incredibly lightweight, serum-like texture that absorbs quickly without any sticky residue. It leaves a beautiful, healthy dewy glow that makes skin look plump and hydrated, often described as the perfect primer for a ‘no-makeup’ makeup day. It layers beautifully under foundation without pilling, making it a favorite for daily wear.
The most common complaint is that its very dewy finish can venture into greasy territory for those with already oily skin. A few users with deeper skin tones mentioned a slight initial cast that fades, but the vast majority confirm it leaves no white residue. The birch juice scent is generally found to be mild and pleasant.
Ideal Candidate: This is the holy grail for those with dry, normal, or dehydrated skin who want a sunscreen that doubles as a moisturizer and delivers a coveted Korean dewy glow.
- [NBC SELECT’S #1 FACIAL SUNSCREEN] Ranked No.1 out of 100+ sunscreens tested by NBC Select editors. Praised for its hydr…
- [OTC REGISTERED, TRUSTED SUN PROTECTION] This OTC registered UV Lock sunscreen is developed to retain the soothing, mois…
- [LIGHTWEIGHT TEXTURE WITH NO WHITE CAST] The non-greasy, lightweight essence texture applies seamlessly, leaving no whit…
mixsoon Bean Sunscreen SPF 50
Reviewers are thrilled with the truly weightless, ‘airy’ texture of the mixsoon sunscreen. It feels like nothing on the skin and dries down to a soft, natural, and slightly matte finish—a rarity in K-beauty sunscreens. This makes it exceptional for wearing under makeup or alone, as it effectively controls shine throughout the day without drying out the skin.
The primary drawback noted is that it offers minimal hydration. Those with dry skin types often feel they need a more substantial moisturizer underneath. While it claims no white cast, a very small number of users with deep complexions advise caution, though most agree it is transparent.
Ideal Candidate: This is the top pick for readers with oily or combination skin who despise heavy, greasy feelings and want a truly invisible, matte-finish sunscreen.
- No White Cast & Strong UV Protection : Mixsoon Bean Sunscreen offers SPF50 for powerful UV protection, effectively preve…
- Silky Application : This sunscreen features a lightweight, silky texture that spreads smoothly, making it the perfect ch…
- Safe and Gentle Ingredients : Made with natural ingredients like wheat sprout extract and fermented bean, it is suitable…
EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
This is the gold standard for many, especially those with finicky skin. Users with rosacea, acne, and extreme sensitivity report that this formula not only protects but actively calms redness and reduces breakouts thanks to its niacinamide and lactic acid content. It has a lightweight, lotion-like consistency that layers well for most.
The most frequent criticism is its premium price point for the amount of product. Some users note that it can pill if applied over a heavy skincare routine or if rubbed vigorously. While the zinc oxide base is well-formulated, a minuscule white cast is possible for the deepest skin tones if not rubbed in thoroughly.
Ideal Candidate: This is the undeniable choice for anyone with sensitive, acne-prone, or rosacea-affected skin who needs a therapeutic, dermatologist-recommended sunscreen they can trust implicitly.
- [NBC SELECT’S #1 FACIAL SUNSCREEN] Ranked No.1 out of 100+ sunscreens tested by NBC Select editors. Praised for its hydr…
- [OTC REGISTERED, TRUSTED SUN PROTECTION] This OTC registered UV Lock sunscreen is developed to retain the soothing, mois…
- [LIGHTWEIGHT TEXTURE WITH NO WHITE CAST] The non-greasy, lightweight essence texture applies seamlessly, leaving no whit…
How to Choose: The Buyer’s Guide
- What is your primary skin type? Dry skin thrives on ROUND LAB’s moisture. Oily skin loves mixsoon’s matte finish. Sensitive or acne-prone skin needs EltaMD’s calming formula.
- What finish do you prefer? Do you want a dewy glow (ROUND LAB), a natural matte (mixsoon), or a standard natural finish (EltaMD)? Your finish preference can narrow the choice instantly.
- Is your skin sensitive or prone to breakouts? If yes, EltaMD’s niacinamide and zinc formula is specifically designed for you and is worth the investment.
- What is your budget? While all are premium, evaluate cost per ounce to see which offers the best value for your specific needs.
The Final Verdict
For a daily hydrating glow, choose ROUND LAB. For a weightless, shine-controlling matte finish, pick mixsoon. For sensitive or acne-prone skin that needs calming protection, invest in EltaMD. You truly can’t go wrong with any of these elite sunscreens—it just depends on your skin’s unique language.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.