Brand reviews - BeautyDecoded analysis
Beauty of Joseon.
Beauty of Joseon Reviews K-beauty hanbang, ginseng, rice and propolis.
One of Korea's most representative marquess of scientifically-based K-beauty. Its name refers to the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910), during which the hanbang - traditional Korean pharmacopoeia - codified therapeutic knowledge. Six products analyzed for documented active ingredients (ginseng, propolis, snail mucin, retinal).
6
Products analyzed
178
User reviews
4,51
Average score /5
90,1
Max anti-aging score
Further information
Analyse a product Beauty of Joseon on your skin profile.
The BeautyDecoded application lets you scan any cosmetic product to visualize its suitability for your skin type and needs, based on INCI analysis.
What sets the brand apart
Visit hanbang validated by modern research.
What sets Beauty of Joseon apart from other K-beauty labels: the hanbang anchor is not purely narrative. The ginsengthe fermented ricethe centella asiatica are active ingredients whose efficacy has been documented by modern research, independently of their traditional use. Formulations feature serious concentrations and quantified ingredients.
01
Indicated and documented concentrations
Ginseng Essence Water 80 % ginseng root water. Glow Serum 60 % propolis + 2 % niacinamide + 0.5 % BHA. Revive Serum 63 % ginseng infusion + 3 % snail mucin. The majority of K-beauty marquess avoid this transparency - Beauty of Joseon has made it a standard.
02
New-generation UV filters
Visit Relief Sun uses a combination of filters that are rare in classic European SPFs: Uvinul A, Tinosorb S, T-150, UVA Sorb. Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage, high photostability. Absence of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Editorial reading
«K-beauty is not uniformly serious. Beauty of Joseon is one of the Korean marquess whose formulations are truly scientifically justified. Relief Sun in particular uses new-generation UV filters that are absent from classic European SPFs.»
Formulatory deciphering
Assets hanbang and scientific validation.
Four traditional Korean active ingredients used by Beauty of Joseon, their modern documented mechanism and clinical interest. All benefit from scientific literature independent of traditional pharmacopoeia.
| Assets | Documented mechanism | Clinical benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Ginseng (ginsenoside) | Antioxidant, stimulates collagen synthesis (in vitro and in vivo) | Anti-ageing, radiance, firmness |
| Propolis | Antibacterial (Cutibacterium acnes), anti-inflammatory | Inflammatory blemishes, redness |
| Snail mucin | Glycoproteins, glycolic acids, allantoin - skin repair and collagen synthesis | Plumping, healing |
| Fermented rice | Amino acids, niacinamide, antioxidants - barrier strengthening, moderate anti-pigmentation effect | Radiance, hydration, spots |
Formulatory vigilance
Relief Sun and the question of Long UVA.
Relief Sun filters (Tinosorb S, Uvinul A) cover effective against short-wave UVA and UVB rays broad spectrum. But like most SPF products on the market, this formula does not filter out long UVA rays (380-400 nm) - the segment of the spectrum that penetrates deepest into the dermis and is involved in deep photoaging.
| UV spectrum | Relief Sun blanket | Reference Long UVA |
|---|---|---|
| UVB (290-320 nm) | Excellent - Tinosorb S | Covered by all SPFs |
| Short UVA (320-380 nm) | Excellent - Uvinul A | Covered by most SPFs |
| Long UVA (380-400 nm) | Unfiltered | Mexoryl 400 - Anthelios UVMune 400 LRP |
Key points: For everyday urban use, Relief Sun is an excellent option - its texture/protection/tolerance ratio is objectively superior to most conventional drugstore SPFs. For a strict anti-photo-aging protocol or for profiles with melasma, Anthelios UVMune 400 (Mexoryl 400 technology) remains the affordable reference.
Overview
The 6 products analyzed, at a glance.
Ranked by descending BeautyDecoded rating. Relief Sun and Revive Eye Serum have the strongest statistical bases (72 and 47 reviews).
| Product | Note | Opinions | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glow Serum - Propolis + Niacinamide | 4,80/5 | 10 | TOP polyvalent - imperfections + redness 81.6 |
| Dynasty Cream | 4,62/5 | 13 | Anti-ageing hydration for dry skin (76.5) |
| Revive Serum - Ginseng + Snail Mucin | 4,50/5 | 2 | Dry skin repair |
| Revive Eye Serum - Ginseng + Retinal | 4,48/5 | 47 | TOP - Anti-ageing 90.1 (range record) |
| Relief Sun SPF50+ PA++++ | 4,47/5 | 72 | TOP - Daily SPF reference |
| Ginseng Essence Water | 4,18/5 | 34 | Anti-ageing 79.9 - normal to dry skin |
Note on BeautyDecoded reviews. The ratings and review excerpts displayed come from users of the BeautyDecoded application. These reviews are not verified. Details of reviews are available on each product sheet in the app.
Family 01
range Solar - technical signature
The most advanced product in the catalog. New-generation UV filters absent from classic European SPFs. Excellent tolerance, ultra-fluid Korean texture.
SPF50+ PA++++ rice + probiotics
TOP - Daily SPF reference
Relief Sun - Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++
Combination of new-generation UV filters: Uvinul A, Tinosorb S, T-150, UVA Sorb. The Tinosorb S (bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine) offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB coverage with high photostability. Presence of probiotics (Lactobacillus) with documented modulating action on the skin microbiome - consistent blemish score 76.5. Free from fragrance, alcohol, oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Scores BeautyDecoded
Dry skin
64,4
Oily skin
91
Normal to oily skin
91
Sensitive skin
+0,5
Imperfections
76,5
Anti-aging
49,3
✅ Sensitivity verdict
Suitable for sensitive skin (score: +0.5). Optimal profile for combination to oily skin (score oily skin 91, normal to oily skin 91).
«A relevant option for everyday urban use. Its texture/protection/tolerance ratio is objectively superior to most conventional drugstore SPFs. The limitation on long UVA rays (380-400 nm) only concerns profiles seeking maximum anti-photo-aging protection.»
User feedback
«Finally a light, effective sun cream - fast penetration, no greasy film, holds up all summer long.»
«Fluid, does not sting the eyes, no white marks. Perfect makeup base.»
«Light in summer, easy to apply, good protection for the office.»
«Makes skin soft, helps makeup adhere, good hydration.»
«I use this sunblock every day without any problems despite having very reactive skin.»
Verdict - TOP. Daily SPF reference. New-generation filters, excellent tolerance. No long UVA filtration (prefer Anthelios UVMune 400 for strict protocols).
Family 02
range Serums - Glow & Revive
Two non-substitutable serums: Glow (propolis + niacinamide + BHA) for combination skin with imperfections, Revive (ginseng + snail mucin) for dry skin in need of repair.
Propolis serum 60 % + niacinamide 2 %
TOP - Versatile for combination skin
Glow Serum - Propolis + Niacinamide
Formula : 60 % propolis (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory), 2 % niacinamide (barrier reinforcement, sebum regulation, melanosome transfer inhibition), 0.5 % of BHA - salicylic acid (intrapilar pore exfoliation). Propolis' antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes is documented. Imperfections score 81,6 and redness 81,6 - the two highest in the range.
Scores BeautyDecoded
Dry skin
91
Oily skin
84
Normal to oily skin
91
Sensitive skin
+0,15
Imperfections
81,6
Redness
81,6
✅ Sensitivity verdict
Suitable for sensitive skin (score: +0.15). Universal profile for all dry to combination skin types.
Point of vigilance : concentration of niacinamide at 2 % - below the 5 % threshold documented for optimal inhibition of melanosome transfer. For strict anti-staining protocols, a combination with niacinamide 10 % serum may be relevant.
«A relevant option for combination to oily skin prone to imperfections or inflammatory reactivity. The propolis concentration is substantial (60 %). Niacinamide at 2 % is a useful but insufficient base on its own for an intensive anti-pigmentation protocol.»
User feedback
«Skin feels soft and moisturized, imperfections gradually disappear - combination to oily skin.»
«Glass skin effect guaranteed. Very pleasant to apply, visible results on radiance.«
«Good product, illuminates the complexion in combination with other skincare products from the brand. Excellent value for money.»
«Gentle serum that penetrates well, comfortable skin - no irritation but progressive results.»
«Too bad the niacinamide concentration is only 2 % - addition of 10 % niacinamide serum needed for stains.»
Verdict - TOP. The most versatile serum in the range. Blemishes and redness 81.6. Suitable for combination to oily skin. Niacinamide 2 % insufficient alone for anti-pigmentation.
Ginseng serum 63 % + snail mucin 3 %
Dry skin repair
Revive Serum - Ginseng + Snail Mucin
Base : 63 % ginseng infusion + 3 % snail mucin + niacinamide + hyaluronic acid + centella asiatica. Snail mucin contains glycoproteins, glycolic acids and allantoin - active ingredients documented for their action on skin repair and collagen synthesis. Dry skin score 90.3 and normal to dry skin score 90.3 - optimal profile for dry to combination-dry skin.
Scores BeautyDecoded
Dry skin
90,3
Oily skin
84
Normal to oily skin
91
Sensitive skin
-0,5
Anti-aging
56,1
Imperfections
12,8
⚠️ Sensitivity verdict
Slight caution recommended (score: -0.5). However, user feedback confirms a generally good tolerance.
«A relevant option for dry skin or skin losing vitality looking for a repairing, plumping active ingredient. Its score profile clearly favors normal to dry skin. It's a complementary formulation to Glow Serum, not a substitute. The 30-ml format finishes quickly - the 60-ml format is recommended for daily use.»
User feedback
«Lovely texture - hydrated, plumped skin. The 30 ml format runs out quickly, better get the 60 ml jumbo.»
«Very pleasant serum, evens and brightens the complexion. Suitable for sensitive skin.»
«Fan of this serum for its soothing effect and comfort upon application.»
Verdict - Complete repairing and moisturizing serum. Optimal for dry skin. Prefer 60 ml format. Two reviews statistically insufficient for definitive conclusion.
Family 03
Ranges Essence & Cream - anti-aging ginseng
First step in the routine (Ginseng Essence Water) and dense hydration (Dynasty Cream). Both are anti-aging products with ginseng as their core active ingredient.
Essence of ginseng 80 % + niacinamide 2 %
Light anti-ageing - normal to dry skin
Ginseng Essence Water
Composition: 80 % ginseng root water + 2 % niacinamide + hyaluronic acid. Visit ginsenoside - the active ingredient in ginseng - has documented antioxidant properties and stimulates collagen synthesis in vitro and in vivo. Anti-aging score 79,9 - the second highest in the range. No alcohol, no colorants, no artificial fragrances.
Scores BeautyDecoded
Dry skin
79,8
Oily skin
84
Normal to oily skin
91
Sensitive skin
+0,5
Anti-aging
79,9
Stains
51
✅ Sensitivity verdict
Suitable for sensitive skin (score: +0.5).
Points to watch in the feedback: some acne-prone profiles report breakouts after use - probably linked to the relative occlusivity of ginseng extract. A limited-area test period is recommended for reactive, oily acne-prone skin.
«Ginseng Essence is relevant for normal to dry skin looking for a light anti-aging care as the first step of a routine. Its anti-aging score (79.9) is serious. On oily or acne-prone skin, Glow Serum is preferable.»
User feedback
«Incredible - gives skin a real glow in just a few months of use. Soothing and gentle.»
«Extremely soothing, I use it every day as the first step in my routine.»
«Very liquid texture, fragrance-free, good tolerance. No visible changes after several months - no miracle.»
«Correct toner, has no miracle effect. Use as a first step before serum and moisturizer.»
«Not repurchased. Insufficient results for my combination skin.»
Verdict - Well-suited to normal to dry skin. High anti-aging score 79.9. Test with caution on reactive acne-prone skin.
Anti-aging moisturizer
Moisturizing dry skin reference
Dynasty Cream
Formula : 3 forms of hyaluronic acid + glycerin (multi-level epidermal hydration), ceramides + squalane (lipid barrier restoration and limitation of insensible water loss), rice extract + niacinamide (barrier reinforcement, moderate anti-pigmentation effect), ginseng (antioxidant). Anti-aging score 76,5 - the highest of all skincare products (excluding eye serum).
Scores BeautyDecoded
Dry skin
66,5
Oily skin
42
Normal to dry skin
70
Normal to oily skin
70
Sensitive skin
-0,5
Anti-aging
76,5
⚠️ Sensitivity verdict
Slight caution recommended (score: -0.5). Consistent with rich formulation. May be occlusive on oily skin in summer conditions.
«Dynasty Cream is a relevant option for normal to dry skin looking for dense hydration with an anti-aging component. Its anti-aging score (76.5) is the best in the cream range. It is not suitable for oily skin, particularly in summer.»
User feedback
«Soft, comfortable cream. May leave a slight luminous effect - to be anticipated depending on the skin.»
«Rich, non-irritating hydration, absorbed quickly. Correct make-up base.»
«Pleasantly surprised: light and moisturizing, with no sticky effect. Sensorially pleasant.»
«Simple and effective - does its job without frills. Light texture with no odor.»
«Sticky texture on my skin, unpleasant finish. Not repurchased for oily skin.»
Verdict - Moisturizing anti-aging reference for dry to normal skin. Anti-ageing 76.5. Not recommended for oily skin in summer.
Family 04
range Eye contour - retinal
The product with the highest corrective scores in the catalog: anti-aging 90.1, blemishes 85, imperfections 76.5. Retinal formula requires very gradual introduction.
Ginseng + retinal eye contour serum
TOP - Anti-ageing 90.1 (range record)
Revive Eye Serum - Ginseng + Retinal
Combination of ginseng (antioxidant) and retinal - aldehydic form of vitamin A requiring a single enzymatic conversion step in retinoic acid, theoretically more effective in equivalent concentrations than retinol. Anti-aging score 90.1 - the highest in the Beauty of Joseon range. Blemish score 85, imperfections 76.5 - this serum concentrates the three highest skin correction indicators.
Scores BeautyDecoded
Dry skin
86,8
Oily skin
87,5
Normal to oily skin
91
Sensitive skin
-2,2
Anti-aging
90,1
Stains
85
⛔ Sensitivity verdict
Not suitable for sensitive skin (score: -2.2). The periorbital area is the thinnest on the face, with dense vascularization - application of retinal requires very gradual introduction. Night-time use only. SPF 50+ mandatory in the morning. Not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. Introduction: 1 evening/week for 2-4 weeks, then increase in stages.
«Revive Eye Serum has the best anti-aging profile in the range (score 90.1). It's a relevant option for profiles looking for a serious corrective active in the periorbital area. Deep vascular or pigmented dark circles are beyond the reach of topical skincare products - the wait must be calibrated accordingly. Very gradual introduction mandatory.»
User feedback
«Miraculous on my fine lines. Dries out a bit - I combine it with a moisturizing contour cream. Redeemed.»
«I've been using it every night for a year: visible results, proper hydration, I can't do without it.»
«First test with retinoids - visible action on fine lines and wrinkles. I also apply it around the mouth and forehead.»
«Very good value for money. Slightly dries out the eye area - perfect in combination with another contour cream in the evening.»
«Very effective, pleasant texture, very economical to use.»
Verdict - TOP. Best anti-aging score in the range (90.1). Gradual introduction mandatory (sensitive skin -2.2). Combine with an eye contour moisturizer.
Putting it into practice
Typical routines according to skin profile.
Four protocols based on the Beauty of Joseon catalog. Multi-layered K-beauty architecture: essence first, serum, cream, SPF.
Mixed - imperfections
Skin mixed - imperfections
Morning
Glow Serum · Relief Sun SPF50+
Evening
Glow Serum - light moisturizing cream
Dry - repair
Skin dryer - repair
Morning
Ginseng Essence Water · Revive Serum · Dynasty Cream · Relief Sun SPF50+
Evening
Ginseng Essence Water · Revive Serum · Dynasty Cream
Confirmed anti-aging
Anti-aging confirmed
Morning
Ginseng Essence Water - vitamin C serum - Dynasty Cream · Relief Sun SPF50+
Evening
Ginseng Essence Water · Revive Eye Serum (progressive stages) - Dynasty Cream
Minimalist routine
Approach minimalist
Morning
Glow Serum · Relief Sun SPF50+
Evening
Dynasty Cream · Revive Eye Serum (progressive introduction)
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need really know.
Are Beauty of Joseon products suitable for sensitive skin?
Visit Relief Sun (score +0.5), the Glow Serum (+0.15) and Ginseng Essence Water (+0.5) are suitable for sensitive skin. La Dynasty Cream (-0.5) and the Revive Serum (-0.5) call for slight caution. Visit Revive Eye Serum (-2.2) is unsuitable for sensitive skin without very slow gradual introduction.
What is hanbang and why is it scientifically relevant?
Visit hanbang is the traditional Korean pharmacopoeia codified under the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910). The Hanbang active ingredients used by Beauty of Joseon - ginseng, rice, centella asiatica - now have a very high modern, independent scientific documentation from their traditional use. They are not used for decorative purposes, but at documented concentrations (60-80 % for flagship active ingredients).
Does Relief Sun protect against long UVA rays?
No. Relief Sun effectively covers short UVA and UVB rays with its new-generation filters (Tinosorb S, Uvinul A). It does not filter out long UVA rays (380-400 nm). For this specific protection, the Mexoryl 400 La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 remains the benchmark available on the French consumer market.
Can Revive Eye Serum be used during pregnancy?
No. Any product containing retinal or retinol - regardless of concentration or route of application - is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The Ginseng Essence Water or the Dynasty Cream are retinoid-free alternatives during this period.
What's the difference between retinal and retinol?
Visit retinol requires two stages conversion to retinoic acid (the form active on RAR/RXR receptors). The retinal (aldehyde form of vitamin A) does not require a single step - It is therefore theoretically more effective at equivalent concentrations, with a tolerance profile that is often better than that of high-concentration retinols. That's what Revive Eye Serum is all about.
Is Glow Serum enough to treat pigmentation spots?
Not on its own, on stubborn stains. Visit niacinamide at 2 % of Glow Serum is below the 5 % threshold documented for optimal inhibition of melanosome transfer. For a serious anti-spot protocol, the combination with a serum niacinamide 10 % (e.g. Anua Niacinamide 10 % + TXA 4 %) or with prescription tretinoin is more effective. SPF 50+ mandatory in the morning.
Where can I buy Beauty of Joseon in France?
The brand is mainly distributed via European K-beauty sites (YesStyle, Stylevana, StyleKorean) and certain specialist retailers. Distribution in French pharmacies is limited. Check the authenticity of the seller - counterfeits are possible on non-approved marketplaces.
What is the BeautyDecoded application?
BeautyDecoded is an application that helps you choose cosmetics adapted to your skin type thanks to the’INCI analysis. The application analyzes formulations and generates compatibility scores for 80 skin types. It does not constitute a medical consultation.
Further information
Analyse a product Beauty of Joseon on your skin profile.
The BeautyDecoded application lets you scan any cosmetic product to visualize its suitability for your skin type and needs, based on INCI analysis.
Information for educational purposes only, not a substitute for medical consultation. BeautyDecoded is a cosmetic analysis application using artificial intelligence and is not a medical diagnostic tool. The results presented depend on the user's diligence and skin type. This article does not constitute a commercial partnership with the Beauty of Joseon brand.
