Okay, let’s be real for a second—if you’re into Korean skincare (and since you’re here, I’m guessing you are), you probably already know how important sunscreen is in your routine. But the big question is: How do you choose between mineral and chemical sunscreens, especially when both are from a popular K-beauty brand like SKIN1004?
That’s where I come in! I’m diving into SKIN1004’s two must-have sunscreens: the Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Light SPF30 PA ++++ and the viral Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++. Both are hyped up for good reason, but which one belongs in your routine? Grab a comfy spot (and maybe a sheet mask) – let’s break it down.
First Up: The Basics on These Sunscreens
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Light
- Type: Mineral (Physical) Sunscreen
- Key Ingredients: Madagascar Centella Asiatica extract, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide
- Texture: Lightweight with a matte finish
- SPF: SPF30+ PA++++
- Best For: Sensitive, oily skin types; anyone looking for a mineral sunscreen that doesn’t leave a ghostly white cast
This is SKIN1004’s answer to those who want a mineral sunscreen that’s gentle on the skin but still effective. Non-nano Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide make it perfect for sensitive skin, plus it’s packed with calming Centella Asiatica (a favorite in K-beauty) to soothe and protect your skin.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++
- Type: Chemical Sunscreen
- Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica, Niacinamide
- Texture: Watery, serum-like finish
- SPF: SPF50+ PA++++
- Best For: Normal to dry skin; those who love a glowy, dewy finish and a lightweight, serum-like texture
This one went viral for a reason. It’s more like a skincare product than your typical sunscreen – it hydrates, brightens, and protects all in one. No greasy residue, just a nice dewy glow that feels amazing.
Mineral vs. Chemical: What’s the Difference?
Check out my previous article here to get a more in depth breakdown and discover which is best for you and your skin type!
But for now here’s a quick refresher:
- Mineral Sunscreens (aka Physical Sunscreens) sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays, kind of like little mirrors. They usually contain Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. The good? They’re gentle and work immediately after applying. The downside? Some can leave a white cast or feel a bit heavy.
- Chemical Sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin. They usually have a lighter texture and don’t leave a white cast, but some chemical filters can irritate sensitive skin.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s dive deeper into these two SKIN1004 sunscreens and see which one’s calling your name.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Light: The Mineral Wonder
If you’ve avoided mineral sunscreens because they’re usually thick and leave you looking like a ghost, this one will change your mind. The Air-Fit Suncream Light is surprisingly lightweight and doesn’t have that chalky white cast.
Why It’s Great:
- Centella Asiatica: This soothing ingredient calms irritation and reduces redness. Great for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
- Non-Nano Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide: These minerals sit on top of your skin without sinking in, making it safe for those with sensitive skin.
- Lightweight & Matte: Mineral sunscreens can be heavy, but this one feels light and leaves a matte finish – perfect if you’ve got oily or combo skin.
- No White Cast: Yep, you heard right. The dreaded white cast? Practically non-existent.
Who Will Love It:
- People with sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin
- Anyone looking for a velvet-matte finish
- Those who want a reef-safe, fragrance-free sunscreen that’s gentle but effective
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum: The Dewy Glow Queen
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF 50+ PA ++++
If you’re after more than just sun protection, this chemical sunscreen has your back. It’s like a sunscreen and a hydrating serum combined, leaving your skin feeling fresh and dewy all day.
Why It’s Awesome:
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps the skin, so you don’t get that tight, dry feeling you sometimes get with sunscreen.
- Niacinamide: Helps brighten your skin and even out your tone over time. It’s like getting skincare benefits while protecting yourself from the sun.
- Centella Asiatica: Like the Air-Fit Suncream, this has Centella Asiatica to calm and protect your skin.
- Serum-Like Texture: Lightweight, absorbs quickly, and leaves behind a radiant glow – perfect if you’re going for that K-beauty glass skin vibe.
Who Will Love It:
- People with normal to dry skin
- Those looking for a multitasking sunscreen-serum hybrid
- Anyone who loves a dewy, glowing finish
How to Use Them Together
Wondering if you can layer them? Absolutely!
Here’s how:
- Start with your usual routine – cleanse, tone, and moisturize.
- Apply the Air-Fit Suncream Light first if you need some mattifying or have sensitive/oily skin.
- Finish with the Water-Fit Sun Serum if your skin craves hydration and you want that glowy finish. It’s light enough to layer without any pilling.
- Don’t forget to reapply every two hours if you’re in the sun!
Common Questions
Q: Do I need to reapply these during the day?
Yes! Even the highest SPF needs to be reapplied every two hours if you’re exposed to the sun—especially after swimming, sweating, or wiping your face.
Q: Can I wear makeup over these sunscreens?
Definitely! The Air-Fit Suncream Light gives you a matte base, while the Water-Fit Sun Serum acts like a hydrating primer for your makeup.
Q: Which is better for acne-prone skin?
The Air-Fit Suncream Light is the safer bet. It’s designed for sensitive skin, has a matte finish, and won’t clog pores.
So, Which One’s the Winner?
Honestly, both sunscreens are amazing and they both pair great under makeup – it really comes down to what your skin needs and what you are willing to use on your skin everyday.
Personally with my combination skin I have been loving the Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Light especially in the summer as it’s super soft on my skin and leaves a nice matte velvet finish compared to the Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum that leaves my combination skin a bit more on the oily side. However in the winter this would be probably be fine as I tend to get more dry. So it really just depends on your skin type and what you’re looking for.
If you have oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin, the Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Suncream Light is probably your best choice. But if you’re after that signature K-beauty glow and need some extra hydration, the Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum will be your new favorite.
If you found this article useful, you may also like:
Mineral Vs Chemical Sunscreen: choosing the right one for acne prone skin
