So I tried the d’Alba Waterfull Tone-Up Sun Cream on a whim — mostly because I saw it on a couple of friends’ vanities and thought the packaging was clean and sleek. I didn’t expect to actually like it this much.

Right off the bat, I’ll say this: it looks good on the skin.

Like, actually good. Not “tolerable for SPF” good — but “my skin looks more awake and alive” kind of good.

It gives a subtle tone-up, not that pale lavender-grey cast you get with some other Korean sunscreens. The brightening is definitely visible, but still natural enough that I feel fine wearing this solo without foundation. Think: soft filter. Not full coverage, but soft-focus realness.

The texture is what made me keep reaching for it. It’s creamy, goes on smooth, and leaves a moist finish, but not sticky. That being said — yeah, there’s a bit of oiliness. Not greasy, not heavy, but you’ll definitely feel it if you’re used to ultra-matte sunscreens. For me (normal-combo), it works — especially as a makeup base. But if you’re super oily or in humid weather, you might need to set it lightly or skip heavy moisturizers underneath.

On my skin, it gives enough hydration that I often skip primer entirely. The way it grips to base products is actually impressive — cushion foundations blend beautifully over it, and it doesn’t separate or get weird midday.

No irritation, no white clumps, no patchiness. Just clean tone-up, sun protection, and a tiny bit of luxury with every squeeze.

I probably wouldn’t use this for a full beach day or outdoor sports (it’s too pretty for that tbh), but for daily city wear, quick errands, or zoom-call face? This is one of my top picks. 

Stylish, effective, and effortless — kind of like how I want all my skincare to feel.