Korean sunscreens are the gold standard. They’re known for combining high UV protection with lightweight, hydrating formulas that don’t feel greasy.
Both the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum and Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Fresh Sun Serum contain hyaluronic acid and SPF50 for broad-spectrum protection against UV rays, while keeping the skin moisturised. Both are hugely popular K-beauty sunscreens with thousands of positive reviews, so I decided to put them head to head.
In this post, I compare the SKIN1004 and Isntree sunscreens to find out which one is the best value for money, their ingredients, and how they wear on the skin.
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Need-to-knows
Before I delve into this comparison, I wanted to give you a rundown of how I tested the SPFs. I’ve got combination skin with mild rosacea. I kept my skincare routine the same when applying both products for an accurate comparison. I took these photos in natural lighting, and the photo of my face is completely unedited.
About the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
The SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum is a vegan and cruelty-free chemical sunscreen with SPF50+ protection. It claims to offer a lightweight, serum-like texture that absorbs quickly, leaves no white cast, and provides a comfortable finish on the skin. Suitable for all skin types, the sunscreen costs £12.16 for 50ml.
About the Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Fresh Sun Serum
The Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Fresh Sun Serum is a vegan and cruelty-free chemical sunscreen with SPF50+ protection. It claims to provide lightweight, hydrating sun protection with a serum-like texture that absorbs quickly and leaves a refreshing, moisturising finish. Suitable for all skin types, the sunscreen retails for £12.66 for 50ml.
The comparison
Price and packaging
Both SPFs are about the same price for the same amount of product. Under £13 for a 50ml sunscreen is great value.
As for packaging, I slightly prefer Isntree. I’m a fan of thin nozzles, as you can squeeze out the right amount of product. While SKIN1004’s pump dispenses a small amount of product – so you’ve got control – I always prefer squeezy bottles. Both sunscreens are lightweight with simple packaging.
Ingredients
Some of the key ingredients in the SKIN1004 SPF50 INCI list include:
- Diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate: a synthetic UV filter that helps shield skin against UVA rays.
- Ethylhexyl triazone: a synthetic UV filter that helps protect skin from UVB rays.
- Tinosorb M: a synthetic broad-spectrum UV filter that helps defend skin against UVA and UVB rays.
- Niacinamide: visibly minimises enlarged pores, improves uneven skin tone, helps regulate sebum production, and strengthens the skin’s barrier.
- Centella asiatica: calms and soothes skin.
- Hyaluronic acid complex: the formula contains 3 types of hyaluronic acid to deliver long-lasting hydration.
Some of the key ingredients in the Isntree SPF50 INCI list are:
- Panthenol: moisturises and soothes skin.
- Ethylhexyl triazone: a synthetic UV filter that helps protect skin from UVB rays.
- Niacinamide: visibly minimises enlarged pores, improves uneven skin tone, helps regulate sebum production, and strengthens the skin’s barrier.
- Drometrizole trisiloxane: a synthetic broad-spectrum UV filter that helps defend skin against UVA and UVB rays.
- Hyaluronic acid complex: this SPF contains 9 types of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration.
- Squalane: helps prevent moisture loss and restores suppleness to skin.
Both sunscreens share a lot in common. They use modern UV filters, contain niacinamide, and are formulated to provide lightweight hydration without irritating sensitive skin.
The main difference lies in their supporting ingredients. SKIN1004 centres its formula around centella asiatica and antioxidant-rich plant extracts to help soothe the skin, while Isntree focuses more heavily on hydration and barrier support with 9 types of hyaluronic acid alongside ingredients such as panthenol, squalane, and ectoin.
Texture and application
When it comes to texture and application, the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum and Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Fresh Sun Serum are virtually the same. Both formulas prioritise a lightweight and fluid consistency that absorbs quickly, doesn’t feel greasy, and doesn’t pill. On application, they’re smooth and blend seamlessly.
Finish and skincare benefits
Both K-beauty sunscreens have a natural dewy finish with zero white cast. I tried these sunscreens on my partner, who has a medium-to-deep complexion, and they didn’t leave a white cast on his skin tone either.
They don’t sit on top of the skin or look dull; instead, they give skin a healthy appearance. I applied the Isntree one to the right side of my face and the SKIN1004 to the left side, and you can’t tell the difference between them, as shown in the photo below.
In terms of skincare benefits, both sunscreens are moisturising, soothing, and refreshing on the skin. As they both provide long-lasting hydration, I actually think you could skip moisturising altogether if you’ve got particularly oily skin or if it’s a very hot day. I find the sunscreens very breathable and comfortable to wear. Once applied, they’re undetectable on the skin.
Wear throughout the day
Similarly, the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum and Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Fresh Sun Serum wear equally well. Neither becomes greasy, still feel comfortable after 8+ hours of wear, and keep skin hydrated throughout the day.
Importantly, topping up is also a breeze. If you apply more sunscreen from either formula, it doesn’t pill or feel like another sticky layer. Instead, it melts into the skin easily, so keeping your SPF topped isn’t a hassle or uncomfortable.
Performance under makeup
As these Korean sunscreens specialise in being hydrating, lightweight, and non-greasy, they also perform brilliantly underneath makeup. There’s no stickiness, no pilling, and no patchiness. Primers, foundation, concealer, etc., all smooth over these formulas with no disturbance. I’ve also not noticed any flashback issues with either formula.
Which hydrating SPF is the best? The verdict
If you’re deciding between the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum and Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Fresh Sun Serum, I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with either.
They’re incredibly similar in terms of texture, finish, longevity, and overall performance. Both feel lightweight, absorb quickly, leave no white cast, wear comfortably throughout the day, and sit beautifully underneath makeup. They’re also similarly priced, making either one excellent value for money.
Ultimately, your decision comes down to the supporting ingredients and packaging. If you’ve got particularly sensitive or redness-prone skin, you may prefer SKIN1004’s centella-focused formula. If you’re looking for an SPF with a stronger focus on hydration and barrier support, Isntree’s blend of 9 types of hyaluronic acid, panthenol, squalane, and ectoin may appeal more.
Personally, I’d be happy to repurchase either sunscreen, as I genuinely noticed very little difference between them in everyday use.
Sarah Sarsby is the owner of A Woman's Confidence. With over 7 years' experience of writing in the fields of beauty and lifestyle, Sarah is passionate about all things content, makeup, skincare, wellness, and lifestyle. She has combination skin, is obsessed with lip gloss, and loves cookie dough.