Suncare Archives - The Beauty Look Book

Best Sunscreens & Sun Care Essentials

July 21, 2023

I have an updated sunscreen roundup today! I’ve tried so many formulas over the years but I often proceed with caution as I have sensitive skin. My top 2 go-to brands for sunscreen have been Shiseido and Supergoop! and for Andrew it’s Jack Black but I have quite a few formulas reviewed in today’s post.

You can always click on the SUNCARE tab to read past reviews and round ups. I’ve also shared my favorite self-tanner, after sun care loves and some misses in this post.

Best Clear Sunscreens – Face

When it comes to face sunscreens I usually try to find something that is lightweight in texture with a high SPF and that layers well with makeup. However there are days when I’m at the beach or on the boat where I go makeup free so those days I opt for something that will adhere well to the skin and hold up well under sweat/protect from heat.

Most of the sunscreens I’ve reviewed are chemical sunscreens. In general mineral formulas usually don’t work well with my skin type unless it’s a tinted option (like a CC cream).

The Chanel UV Essentiel with SPF 50 ($60) is one of my favorite clear sunscreens. Chanel reformulated it this year and I 100% love the new formula. It’s not as fluid/liquid so it doesn’t creep into the corners of my eyes as easily. It has a lightweight almost gel like formula and blends in easily. Doesn’t leave any white cast. Also works well with the Chanel foundations. The UV Essentiel is scented (similar to their previous sunscreens) so if you have fragrance sensitivities do a patch test first. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0 % | Homosalate 10.0 % | Octisalate 5.0 % | Octocrylene 5.0 %

Shiseido Vita-Clear Sunscreen with SPF 42 Vitamin C ($38) is another great formula. This is a clear liquid and has a lightweight texture. It has Vitamin C to help with brightness and target dark spots. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3%, Homosalate 10.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 5.0%

In general I think Shiseido makes the best sunscreens I’ve tried. If you’re looking for other options, they make one for oily skin and mineral options too.

Cle de Peau Beaute UV Protective Cream SPF 50+ ($140) is a newer launch and quite the splurge. It has an ultra-luxurious texture unlike any formula I’ve tried. This one has a completely clear finish. It’s hydrating but has a nice dry down. It’s described as suitable for all skin types but I still think it’s best for normal/dry skin. That being said my skin tends to become very dry when it is exposed to a lot of heat outdoors so this one is still really good. It is scented with a floral fragrance, so if you have sensitives to scented sunscreens, do a patch test first. Do I think it’s work the steep price? I don’t know. Will use it up entirely but I don’t know that I will repurchase. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 5%

I also bought the Cle de Peau Refillable UV Protective Lip Balm with SPF 25 ($65) to try. I’m undecided on this. I really need to wear sunscreen on my lips but I can’t stand the taste or feel of most. This one definitely has a taste to it and I don’t really like how it feels (it has a waxy feel).

The Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer with SPF 50 ($55) is a great sunscreen that doubles as a primer. It works well under foundation and has a clear invisible finish. Love that it’s hydrating but lightweight. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Octinoxate 6.7%, Octisalate 4.5%, Octocrylene 2.0%

The Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick with SPF 50 ($30) is one of the best face sunscreens I’ve tried. It has a sticky finish so it adheres really well to the skin. I like this for touch ups on the go on makeup-free days. It is easy to reapply. Since it adheres well make sure you wash your face really well at the end of the day. I recommend double cleansing with an oil cleanser first and then following with a regular cleanser. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.5%, Homosalate 10.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 10.0%

Vacation Inc. Super Spritz SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Mist ($24) is pure love. It’s the easiest way to touch up your sunscreen if you wear makeup, although be sure to spritz liberally. It smells incredible and did not irritate my skin. Doesn’t feel heavy and refreshes the skin. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2.9%), Octisalate (4.9%), Octocrylene (9.5%)

Tinted Sunscreens

I have quite a few foundations that also have sunscreen, but today’s roundup focuses more on products that are primarily sun care.

The Supergoop! Glowscreen with SPF 40 ($38) is one of my favorites. I really love that they added more shades. I alternate between Sunrise (the original champagne shade) and Golden Hour (bronzey). I love using this all over the face alone or under foundation to give a natural radiant glow. The Glowscreen also has hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate the skin. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%

The Supergoop! CC Screen with SPF 50 ($44) is one of the few mineral cc creams I like. I’m currently out of this as I used mine up but I like it when blended with a sponge. If you blend with fingers it will feel too thick. Has good medium coverage that stays put and lasts.

The Chanel CC Cream SPF 50 gets a shout out as one of my all time favorite tinted sunscreens but it’s currently being reformulated. It’s nearly impossible to find this now. The Chanel counters near me told me it will be back in 2024. I will 100% be trying out the new one.

Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 ($32) is another mineral formula I actually can wear and like. It has a balmy texture more like a sunscreen and blends in easily on the skin. I wear 35 Point Dume but they added some newer shades I need to check out. Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, 12.6%

Best Sunscreens – Body

For the body the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50 ($50) is hands down the best of the best in terms of offering the most effective protection from the sun and heat. You still need to reapply frequently but this one holds up the best against sweat, water and heat. I love that it is easy to reapply even on sweaty skin. It’s easy to apply and blend. I highly recommend getting the Value Size Duo ($66) because it comes with a mini you can put in your purse.

Vacation Inc. makes the best smelling sunscreens on the market. I’m thrilled they added SPF 50 versions of the Classic Spray and Classic Lotion. I generally do not recommend body spray sunscreens because it’s so easy to miss areas with the mist dispenser. Also sprays typically don’t last you more than 1-2 days if you’re truly applying sufficient product and reapplying every 2 hours.

I really love both sunscreen oils from Vacation Inc although I do wish they had a higher spf. The Chardonnay Oil with SPF 30 feels heavenly on the skin and the Baby Oil with SPF 30 smells just like baby oil. I would say these are best for days you’re in a shaded area or for non-water days.

I tried the Soleil Toujours Antioxidant Sunscreen Mist SPF 50 ($36) and really like it. (There is an SPF 30 option too.) Has a slightly sticky feel but adheres well and has a shiny look on the skin. I would 100% try the body lotion if it came with an SPF 50 option. I like this enough to use up and consider repurchasing, but it just doesn’t have enough product to justify the price. Sprays get used up really fast! (Andrew tried it and says he is not a fan) Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%

Supergoop! Glowscreen Body with SPF 40 ($42) gets another shout out from me. I love this formula and love the added shimmer to it. It can feel a bit thick when you apply so you really need to work it in the skin to blend it, but it adheres well and never fails me. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 7%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%

The Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF 45 ($22) gets a shout out as this is Andrew’s favorite formula and the one he wears daily. It’s thick and takes some work to blend in but it’s the most effective and easy to re-apply. It’s the best water resistant sunscreen we’ve both tried. The only downside is that it also takes a lot of work to remove in the shower but in terms of protection, it’s one of the best. The Turbo Wash is the best at removing it. Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 8%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 3%

Aftersun Balm

We’ve tried a lot of aloe and after sun care products. At the end of the day any good aloe vera gel is great to help soothe the skin. We often get a bottle of Banana Boat or Sun Bum Cool Down After Sun Gel. Two other formulas I’ve tried include ones from Dior and Vacation.

The Vacation Inc. After Sun Gel with Aloe Vera ($12) is one of our recent favorites. Love that it does not have any alcohol and soothes the skin.

The Dior Solar After-Sun Balm ($52) is another really nice hydrating balm that I love. Has a lightweight texture and cooling effect. It does have alcohol in the ingredient list but it did not irritate my skin.

Self-Tanner

Last but not least many of you have asked if I self tan and I usually don’t. I really don’t like the way self tanners smell or feel on the skin but I finally tried Loving Tan this year and loved it. I tried the 2 Hour Express Formula in Medium and it gave really impressive results. The tan looked very natural in color (no orange tones), did not streak and did not transfer. I was 100% impressed! I will say that any self tanner (even this one) can dry out the skin so my only added tip is to moisturize daily. You can see the before/after transformation here.

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Misses

Here are a few recent misses in sunscreen. A lot of these have positive reviews out there, they just did not work for me.

Kosas DreamBeam – I’m not sure I would call this a total miss because it blends out nicely, doesn’t pill or cake. I give this a miss because I just think there are better formulas out there and this felt exceptionally thick on my skin. So thick that I could not wait to wash it off.

Beauty of Joseon Matte Sunscreen Stick – I had such high hopes for this but it went on streaky, felt thick, had a noticeable white cast and clogged my pores.

Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow – another one I had high hopes for, but left my skin a greasy mess. I felt like everything stuck to me. The shimmer wasn’t really noticeable on my skin. It is hydrating and gives your skin a glow, but there is zero dry down and it feels very slippery.

First Aid Beauty Weightless Liquid Mineral Sunscreen – I had such high hopes for this as I really love First Aid Beauty. There is an overwhelming number of positive reviews so if you’re looking for a mineral sunscreen, I still think it’s worth checking out. It sank into my pores and did not blend easily (I made sure I gave the bottle a through shake).

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I know I covered a lot here! If you’ve been wanting more details on any of these formulas I hope you found this roundup helpful!

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Beauty Favorites Skincare Suncare

Summer Sunscreens To Put On Your Radar

July 21, 2022

By popular request I have my summer sunscreen roundup with all the formulas I’ve tried and loved recently! I have mainly used formulas from Supergoop!, Shiseido and Chanel but finally put more formulas to the test. My skin is very sensitive to extreme heat and sunscreen so I test with extreme caution. Here is what I’ve tried and thoughts. Up first are formulas for the body!

Sunscreens for the Body

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion with SPF 50 ($25 to $65, Bloomingdale’s, Sephora, Ulta Beauty)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3% Sunscreen Homosalate 10.0% Sunscreen Octisalate 5.0% Sunscreen Octocrylene 5.0% Sunscreen

This is my all-time favorite sunscreen for the body. It’s the best I’ve tried that has a velvety dry down, longest lasting even in water and easy to spread even over wet skin (although I recommend applying on dry skin). It also helps protect against heat. It’s also formulated to use on the face but I use this one only on the body, neck, arms, legs. Love this value duo at Sephora.

Supergoop! Glowscreen Body SPF 40 ($42, Sephora, Nordstrom, Supergoop!)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3% Sunscreen Homosalate 10.0% Sunscreen Octisalate 5.0% Sunscreen Octocrylene 5.0% Sunscreen

I’ve loved and used this formula since the day it launched (have also repurchased numerous times). It has superfine light reflecting particles (it’s smooth, no chunky texture) and adds the prettiest shimmer and to the skin. Love that it’s smooth and hydrating.

Revive Soleil Superiéur SPF 50 ($165, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bluemercury)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3% Sunscreen Homosalate 10% Sunscreen Octisalate 5% Sunscreen Octocrylene 2.6%

This was one of my latest splurges – for me it was hard to find as it was almost always sold out but seems to be back in stock a few places. It’s one of the most expensive sunscreens I’ve tried and it is pure love. It glides on the skin smoothly. Has an anti-oxidant complex to nourish and hydrate the skin. Has a very subtle sunscreen scent which smells like summer to me. Love that it has a pump applicator. There is also a Soleil Superieur face version which I’ve used and loved before but it’s also quite expensive.

Vacation Inc. Classic Lotion SPF 30 ($18, Nordstrom, Ulta Beauty, Vacation Inc.)

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2.5%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (8%)

This formula wins for the best scent. It has a nice smooth application. No pilling. Smells like a fun summer vacation. I love how the formula wears and performs. Two things though: I do wish it had a higher SPF and it doesn’t apply well on wet skin. If you’re in the water or super sweaty you will need to towel off before applying otherwise it doesn’t adhere. It has coconut oil, aloe vera, banana extract, Vitamin E and Niacinamide.

Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF 45 ($21, Jack Black, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Sephora, Ulta Beauty)

Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 3.0%, Zinc Oxide 8%

This formula is Andrew’s favorite and the only body sunscreen he uses. It’s the longest lasting even in water and with sweat. It’s one I order in bulk because Andrew goes through so much. Anytime we have guests in town we give them a bottle of this Jack Black formula (or Supergoop!) to use while they’re here because it’s the best at protecting skin and preventing sunburns.

It’s also available in 3-Pack of Minis at Jack Black. The only downside is that it’s so effective it is very hard to remove at the end of the day. You’ll have to give your body multiple scrubs with a washcloth or sponge. I’ll sometimes have to use a cleansing oil all over and let it sit to break down the formula before using a regular body wash. Andrew’s favorite is the Jack Black Turbo Wash (which I also borrow from time to time). The Big Sir Body and Hair Cleanser is also pretty good.

If you’re looking for the men in your life to up their grooming game, I highly recommend Jack Black. They have some good starter sets. I’ve bought this for Andrew, his brother, my brother, etc.

Sun Care Face Formulas

For the face I have stuck with a very small select group of formulas for the past three years. I am very sensitive to heat and sunscreen. With the wrong formula my face often reacts with red spots and flare ups when exposed to extreme heat. I still get review requests every week to review/test different formulas from you! This year I finally branched out and tried more after careful research and am thrilled to report that I have some new winners.

I’ve loved and used La Roce-Posay for a long time. It’s one that most of you love and use too. Three formulas I started using recently include the following:

The Anthelios Ultra-Light SPF 60* ($30.99) has a lightweight texture and semi-matte finish. It’s a white fluid but has no white cast on my skin. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5% and Octocrylene 7%.

The Anthelios Mineral Tinted SPF 50* ($34.99) is an excellent mineral formula I actually like and love. I find most mineral formulas don’t work for my skin type with the texture, but this is a really good one with a brown-beige tint. It disappears into the skin. Active Ingredient is Titanium Dioxide 11%.

The Anthelios Melt-In-Milk SPF 60* ($24.99 to $36.99, face & body, chemical sunscreen) is a great formula for the body. 100% recommend. Has a high SPF, melts into the skin, absorbs quickly. Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5% and Octocrylene 7%. See them in action below!

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Two other mineral formulas that I like are the Tatcha Silk Sunscreen SPF 50 ($60) and the Summer Fridays Shade Drops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30 ($36). I bought both from Sephora and absolutely love how they melt into the skin and don’t feel heavy or pill.

The Tatcha formula works under makeup nicely and it has a velvety feel. The packaging could use a bit of work as the product sometimes will squirt out of the top once you open it. I haven’t had any flaking issues that you see online (not yet). This is more fluid in texture compared to their Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen with SPF 35.

The Summer Fridays formula is a really nice one I found works with me. Reviews seem to be mixed – definitely try a patch test first. I don’t think it’s the best long-wear formula if you’re outside for an extended period of time.

The Chanel UV Essentiel SPF 50 ($55) and CC Cream ($55) have been in my top picks for years. I love the ultra lightweight texture of the UV Essentiel and I don’t sweat a lot on my face so this works for me (it didn’t work for Andrew, he sweats more). Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5%, Titanium dioxide 3.8%, Zinc oxide 17.1%.

My most-worn sunscreen is the Chanel CC Cream with SPF 50. It’s a tinted product with medium coverage and wears so well on my skin. Lasts all day. It is on the semi-thick side so application is key. It’s not one I recommend applying with fingers. Use a sponge to work it into the skin and blend. This method works best for me when applying any CC cream. So many of you have told me you have kept referring to my review from 2018!

Active Ingredients: Active ingredients: Octinoxate 6.8%, Titanium dioxide 4%, Zinc oxide 15.2%

Supergoop! is one of my favorite brands for sunscreens in general. I love all of their chemical formulas and one mineral. My recommendation for formula would be based on your skin type and preference. Each one has a different texture and purpose.

Out of all the Supergoop formulas I love the Every.Single.Face Watery Lotion SPF 50* and the CC Screen SPF 50 the most. The CC Screen is an excellent tinted option with pretty good coverage. The Daily Dose Vitamin C SPF 40 is a great option and the Unseen SPF 40 is one of the best matte finish formulas I’ve tried.

Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30* ($30 to 42) was one of the highest rated/most loved formulas from you based on messages I received on social. So many of you love this skincare line and after finally trying it this year I 100% agree. No white cast on me (although there is a very subtle white tint), no pilling, lasts on the skin. Definitely reapply every hour (as with all formulas) but love that it’s not sticky or goopy and it doesn’t have any smell or weird sunscreen scent.

The last two I wanted to highlight are the Shiseido Urban Environment Fresh-Moisture Sunscreen SPF 42 ($38, Bloomingdale’s) and Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Broad Spectrum SPF 42 Sunscreen ($35, Nordstrom, Sephora).

Both are great formulas for the face. The Shiseido Urban Environment Fresh-Moisture Sunscreen has a beautiful hydrating feel. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture. Leaves the skin feeling smooth and slightly plump. It has enough moisture that I can use this as a moisturizer.

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3%, Homosalate 10.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 5.0%.

The Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen is also a recent winner. It has a more fluid thin texture with a velvety dry down. Super lightweight, long lasting, has a slight pale peachy pink tint when you apply it on the skin but disappears after blending.

Active Ingredients: Ensulizole 1.0%, Homosalate 15.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Zinc Oxide 15.5%

There is also a Mineral Version of this formula but I have not tried it.

That wraps up my summer sunscreen roundup! I would recommend any of these to anyone. If I had to pick my absolute top favorites, these are my top 6:

Best Body Sunscreen: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion tied with Revive Soleil Superier
Best Long-Wear Formula: Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard
Favorite Sunscreen for the Face (with tint): Chanel CC Cream
Favorite Non-Tinted Face Formula: Tatcha
Favorite Hydrating Sunscreen for the Face: Shiseido Urban Environment Fresh-Moisture Sunscreen

What are your go-to sunscreen formulas?

Press samples have a * next to them. All other formulas purchased and frequently repurchased by me.

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Skincare Suncare

Best Sunscreens for Summer

July 7, 2021

I’m excited to share an updated sunscreen roundup of formulas I am loving and using right now! I’ve split my list into four categories: Body, Face (clear), Face (tinted) and Andrew’s Favorites.

Shiseido x Tory Burch

Two I’ve been loving are from Shiseido x Tory Burch. They partnered to launch two sunscreens in this beautiful limited-edition packaging. Both formulas are also available in the regular permanent lineup as well (packaged in the bright blue bottles).

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen is a lightweight silky formula you can use on both the face and body. I prefer this on the body and it has a slight pink tint to it but has a transparent finish without any residue. It has a pleasant citrus scent. I love this one because it has Shiseido’s WetForce and HeatForce technology. It holds up pretty well with sweat, but you still need to reapply.

Price: $49 for 150 ml, Tory Burch, Shiseido, Nordstrom, Ulta
SPF: 50+
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.3%, Homosalate 10.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 10.0%
Other Notes: Water Resistant 80 Minutes

Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ is a great clear sunscreen stick. I apply this on bare skin. It has an emollient texture when you apply but turns into a semi-velvety drydown. You can apply this under makeup too. It does have fragrance but I found it did not irritate my skin.

Price: $29 for 20 g, limited-edition packaging sold out, regular version at Ulta, Nordstrom Rack, Dillard’s
SPF: 50+
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.5%, Homosalate 10.0%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 10.0%
Other Notes: Water Resistant

Favorite Body Sunscreens

These days I rely mostly on Supergoop! and Sol de Janeiro for body sunscreens. I also really like Sun Bum too.

Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 has been a go-to for years! I loved the original formula and find the new one good too. You can use this on both the face and body, but for me it’s best on the body. Texture is a bit too thick for my face (I prefer the Unseen or City Serum for the face instead). This one helps protect the skin from sun and heat exposure and I really like that it helps moisturize the skin.

Price: $22 – $58, at Supergoop!, Sephora, Nordstrom
SPF: 50
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7.5%
Other Notes: Also available in a lot of sets!

Supergoop! Glowscreen Body is one of the newer launches from Supergoop! and I absolutely love it. It’s a shimmery body lotion with SPF 40 but the glow is subtle with tiny micro sparkles. I think it’s really fun for summer!

Price: $42 for 100 ml, at Supergoop!, Sephora and Nordstrom
SPF: 40
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 7%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%

Sun Bum Sunscreen Sprays are great spray sunscreens. We love picking these up at our local grocery store or Target. The original formula comes in SPF 30, 50 and 70. Love that they adhere to the skin really well once they dry. You do need to be super diligent and thorough to wash it off though.

Price: $15.99 for 6 oz / 170 g, at Target
SPF: 30 to 70
Active Ingredients: For SPF 30, Avobenzone 3.00%, Homosalate 10.00%, Octisalate 5.00%, Octocrylene 3.75%

Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Sol Oil Sunscreen with SPF 30 is one of my favorite most-used sunscreens. I love the oil formula and it’s scented with their classic Cheirosa ’62 scent. It has glitter and shimmer in it but I really love it.

Price: $38 for 90 ml, at Sephora
SPF: 30
Active Ingredients: Homosalate 10%, Octocrylene 10%, Octisalate 5%, Avobenzone 3%

Face Sunscreens – Clear

When it comes to face sunscreens, I’ve used and loved a number of formulas over the years. I still really love the ones from Supergoop! like their Unseen and City Serum but right now are rotating through a few other formulas.

Chanel UV Essentiel Complete Protection Antioxidant Anti-Pollution Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is a lightweight fluid. It has a one of the thinnest textures I’ve tried. It does contain alcohol pretty high up on the list so if you have sensitivities to it, you may want to do a patch test. I like that this feels very light and I can wear under makeup easily.

Price: $55 for 1 fl oz, at Chanel.com
SPF: 50
Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5 %, Titanium dioxide 3.8 %, Zinc oxide 17.1 %

Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
(details above at the top of the blog post)

Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40+ is one of the few mineral sunscreens I like. It has a white tint but has a minimal cast once blended into the skin for my medium/tan skin. I wouldn’t call it weightless but I also don’t find it super heavy. Leaves the skin feeling smooth with a soft dry down. I do wish they made a clear version but I like that this protects my face and is nice on no-makeup makeup days when I just need sun protection at the beach.

Price: $50 for 50 ml/1.7 fl oz, at Sephora, Nordstrom, Kate Somerville
SPF: 40
Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 17%

Tinted Sunscreens

Supergoop! CC Screen 100% Mineral CC Cream SPF 50 is one of my favorite CC Creams, it looks great on the skin once blended it, offers medium coverage and has good sun protection. Makes the skin look super smooth and flawless! I wear the shade 326W. I recommend applying this with a sponge to blend in. Texture is semi-thick like most CC creams so blending is key. If you apply with fingers like regular clear sunscreen it will be too thick on the skin.

Price: $39 for 1.6 oz/47 ml, at Supergoop, Nordstrom, Sephora
SPF: 50
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 4%, Zinc Oxide 20%

Chanel CC Cream Super Active Complete Correction Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 is my other favorite CC Cream. This is one I probably wear the most for foundation and sunscreen (I wear 40 Beige). It’s a tinted moisturizer that has perfect medium to full coverage. I also recommend applying with a sponge to blend in. It has really good lasting power and gives the skin a smooth glowing look.

Price: $55 for 30 ml/1 fl oz, at Chanel.com
SPF: 50
Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 6.8%, Titanium dioxide 4%, Zinc oxide 15.2%

Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen with SPF 36 is another great tinted sunscreen. This is an all-mineral product with a soft beige tint to it. I reviewed this one earlier in the spring and am still really impressed! I find it still works on me when I have a tan, but since it is tinted it may not blend into a transparent finish if you have fair or deep skin. I am really hoping they consider making more shades because this is a really phenomenal sunscreen!

Price: $55 for 74 g/2.6 oz, at Alastin
SPF: 36
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 8.9%, Zinc Oxide 3.4%

Andrew’s Favorites

When it comes to sunscreen for Andrew there are few that will hold up in Florida heat and humidity. The best one he’s tried and his absolute favorite is the Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard with SPF 45 ($21, at Nordstrom and Jack Black). It’s the most durable that stays put even with heat, sweat, water etc. He is pretty diligent about re-applying every couple of hours too. It’s one of the few bottles he repurchases. Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 8%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 3%. He also likes the Sun Bum spray to reapply or layer and for the face he also likes the Shiseido sunscreen stick. We are still on the hunt for a good face sunscreen stick he 100% loves though.

That wraps up my current sunscreen favorites! I do rotate body sunscreens more frequently than I do for the face because my skin isn’t as sensitive on my arms/legs. I’ve found a few Neutrogena options that are ok but it’s harder to find Oxybenzone free formulas from the line.

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Would love to hear about what your current favorites are! Let me know in the comments.

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By Terry Suncare

By Terry Sun Designer Palettes Hippy Chic + Happy Sun and UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF 50

May 25, 2018

There are new launches from By Terry and today I’m rounding up three of them including her two new Sun Designer Palettes in Hippy Chic + Happy Sun ($55 each for 15 g/0.53 oz) along with the new UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 ($55 for 1 fl oz/30 ml). After a few recent launches I felt were a bit meh, I’m thrilled to report these three items are excellent on all counts.

Up first are the two new Sun Designer Palettes. This is her third launch of these palettes previously reviewed here and here. The two options fall into the medium category – not too pale and not too deep. For me both are perfect for my complexion now and will work well into the summer when I become more tan. I purchased both sight unseen and I think these are easily the best ones she has launched yet. The pigment and color payoff is the same as previous palettes even though the price point has dropped drastically. The formula seems to have changed slightly and the powders have an almost creamy feel. The shimmers are very finely mixed pressed together. Since the pans are all close together it’s going to be nearly impossible to not mix shades – but that is how I apply them for the face. For more detailed color pick-up I use the Laura Mercier Fan Brush or Wayne Goss Air Brush.

Hippy Chic is the brighter more rosy option. It has a mix of shimmers and mattes.

Colors include:

Shimmering pale pink
Shimmering pink gold
Pale baby pink
Rosy coral matte
Shimmering peachy orange
Matte cool pink rose

Above also wearing Chanel Sublimage Le Teint in 40, MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium Golden, Hippy Chic Palette on the cheeks, Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quad in Golden Mink, Tom Ford Waterproof Extreme Mascara, Pat McGrath Luxetrance Lipstick in Valetta + LUST: Gloss in Flesh Astral on top. Top from Free People. As you can see the colors can be blended out for a softer look. You can also layer them for more intensity but the overall finish is going to be more natural.

Happy Sun is like my dream neutral palette come true with tan and beige and soft warm gold tones.

Colors include:

Shimmery sand champagne
Shimmery medium tan
Shimmering golden beige
Matte brown tan
Soft matte pink beige
Soft matte warm neutral peach-tan

Some swatch comparisons to two other Sun Designer Palette launches, By Terry Hippy Chic vs. Savannah Love (still available here):

By Terry Happy Sun vs. Light and Tan Vibes:

Up next is the By Terry UV Base Sunscreen Cream with SPF50. I’ve been testing several face sunscreens this spring and this is one of them. Roundup to follow soon. This is described as an invisible sunscreen primer and it truly is that. It has a white almost gel-like texture and once blended disappears completely into the skin. When brands say their sunscreen is “invisible” I find around half the time they are not. Since I have tan skin most still leave a white cast. This one truly disappears 100%. It has no flash back in photographs. Active Ingredients are Avobenzone 3%, Octinoxate 6.8%, Octisalate 4.5%. Rest of ingredients listed here and here.

The sunscreen does have a fragrance to it which is hard to describe but it’s a soft floral non-sunscreen like scent. I want to say it smells a little like a floral almond but I can’t quite put my finger on it. It’s fairly strong but not irritating to the nose or skin. As one who is sensitive to sunscreens I found this did not irritate or clog my pores. It layered well over moisturizer without pilling and worked with a wide range of foundations.

Swatches below, left to right is straight from the tube, blended a little, then blended even more:

Items also shown in top photo and rest of the post: Chanel Rouge Coco Gloss in 786, Laura Mercier Fan Brush, Wayne Goss Air Brush, Tory Burch Sienna Sandals (I’d recommend going up 1/2 a size from your normal Tory Burch sizing), sunglasses from J.Crew (old style), sun hat from Nordstrom (old style, similar here), By Terry Lash Expert Mascara (review here, I’ve made this work by layering it on top of a waterproof mascara), Byredo Blanche Perfume.

Overall thumbs up on all three new items. I’m happy with both of my palette purchases and was thrilled to get a sample of the new sunscreen. I highly recommend all three.

You can find By Terry online at Nordstrom, Space NK, Bloomingdale’s, Barneys New York, Beautylish.

Sunscreen is a press sample. Palettes purchased by me.

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Suncare What's In My Bag

Touch-Up Beauty Essentials

March 4, 2018

Today I’m sharing a look at some of my touch-up beauty essentials for when I’m on the go. Living in Florida where the sun is strong and shining almost every day, sunscreen is an essential part of my regular routine. Finding a workable sunscreen has been a challenge for years. I typically hate the smell, find they have flashback, are thick and sticky and really not fun to re-apply. Supergoop! has been my go-to as they’ve developed a number of formulas that have taken care of all those issues I’ve used as excuses. I’ve used and loved their line for years and am excited to share a look at a new and improved formula of their powder called the Invincible Setting Powder. It’s truly the perfect product to incorporate into one’s makeup routine as it’s a setting powder with mineral sunscreen. It works as the last step to set makeup and is another solution to re-apply your SPF without ruining your makeup mid-day. I’ve teamed up with Supergoop! to share a look at the new powder along with some other on-the-go touch-up beauty essentials I use on a regular basis.

Five things I’m almost always carrying with me to touch-up: sunscreens, lip treatment, blotting papers, dry shampoo and some kind of hand cream. My favorites in each category below!

First a look at the new 100% Mineral Invincible Setting Powder with SPF 45. The original version came in one option which was a universal Translucent shade. They’ve now added three tinted shades in Light, Medium and Deep with a sheer soft matte finish. They’ve made the packaging slimmer and more compact but given us more product (original had 2.5 g, new version has 4.25 g). The brush is removable so you can wash it and it’s also retractable with a cap so you can carry anywhere and keep it clean. The base is also refillable do you don’t have to repurchase the whole thing once it’s used up.

The formula is 100% mineral and works best over a base. They recommend you apply over your regular sunscreen. I like either the City Sunscreen Serum or Unseen Sunscreen for the face. Once you have the powder on top skin looks smooth and blurred with a soft matte finish. A closer look at the packaging and swatches, finish is sheer which makes the color forgiving. There is also no flashback! Shade-wise I can work with both Light and Medium.

Other on-the-go essentials are lip products. My bag is always overflowing with lip gloss and balms. Lately my go-to lip tints include the Sisley Phyto-Lip Twist and the YSL Volupte Tint in Balms. These are products I can apply without a mirror and touch-up on the go for a nice healthy sheen. Lip treatment favorites include the By Terry Baume de Rose and Glossier Coconut Balm Dot Com. Both offer hydration without feeling thick or goopy.

Dry shampoo is another category I’ve found to be essential. I haven’t always been a dry shampoo fan. Many leave a white cast on my dark hair making it look dusty and ashy. I wash my hair daily but sometimes with the Florida humidity my hair goes flat with the heat and sweat. A good dry shampoo has become part of my regular routine for a refresh mid-day. My favorites include the Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo for Dark Tones, R+Co Death Valley works the best for me to absorb oil and also add volume, Sachajuan Dry Powder Shampoo smells the best to me but has the most mild effect, Oribe Gold Lust Dry Shampoo is a classic and the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day is also another staple that works and smells amazing.

Last but not least are hand creams and blotting papers. Sometimes I just wear regular sunscreen on my hands, but having a dedicated hand cream with SPF is always a plus. The hands are often exposed to the sun a lot more than you realize, especially if you are on the road a lot. The Supergoop! Forever Young Hand Cream has SPF 40 and absorbs nicely into the skin without any greasy feel. Another favorite of mine is pretty much anything from L’Occitane. They have a limited-edition Whipped Shea Butter which offers a bit more lightweight finish which is nice for warm weather seasons.

I also need to keep blotting papers on hand to absorb oil. Two brands I swear by include Shiseido and Tatcha. I’m thrilled that now I have another touch-up alternative with the Supergoop! Invincible Mineral Powder to blot out the shine throughout the day. Having the SPF 45 is an added bonus.

Touch-Up Essentials at Home, shown below:

Top Shelf – Unseen Sunscreen with SPF 40, City Sunscreen Serum with SPF 30, Invincible Mineral Setting Powder with SPF 45 showing Translucent, Light, Medium and Deep
Bottom Shelf – But First, Sunscreen Mini Trio Kit, Sun-Defying Sunscreen Oil with SPF 50 (mini), Everyday Sunscreen with SPF 50 (mini), Forever Young Hand Cream with SPF 40 (mini), 100% Mineral Sunscreen Stick with SPF 45

Quick touch-ups for lips, hair and face:

In my medium bucket bag for on-the-go touch-ups:

That wraps up my favorite on-the-go touch up essentials! Often times I tend to carry a lot in my purse but there are times when I want to streamline my beauty bag. I can narrow it down to a select few to bring with me where ever I go. Travel sizes come in super handy for me and I love that Supergoop! carries most of their products in sizes that will fit into any bag. I’ve used their products for years starting with their Sunscreen Oil. I’m always excited to see what they have coming out next. My personal favorite is the Everyday Sunscreen for the body and I’m thrilled to have a tinted version of the Setting Powder to work better with my tan skin. They’ve truly changed my outlook on sunscreen with their formulas.

Do you have any favorite touch-up beauty items you keep in your purse at all times? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks to Supergoop! for partnering to sponsor this post.

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Suncare

Summer Beach Bag Essentials with Supergoop!

June 9, 2017

Today I’m excited to share a detailed look at some of my favorite sunscreens. Supergoop! is one of my go-to brands for sunscreen. I tried their oil first a couple years ago and have been hooked ever since. This summer they’ve introduced three new ways to wear SPF with a mineral, mist and mousse formulas. They reached out and asked me to try them and I couldn’t have been more thrilled. Everything is 100% on point from the packaging to the formula and finish..

The three new formulas include:

Super Power Sunscreen Mousse with Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%
Defense Refresh Setting Mist with Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0%, Homosalate 4.0%, Octinoxate 6.0%, Octisalate 3.0%
Mineral Invincible Setting Powder with SPF 45, 100% mineral and sweat resistant
- Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 20%, Titanium Dioxide 15.7%

Above: Defense Refresh Setting Mist mini // Sunscreen Mousse travel size // Sunscreen oil 10 ml size // Everyday Sunscreen mini // Mineral Setting Powder // Beach Bag // Stripe Clutch // Pink Beach Towel // Bikini

Up first is a closer look at the Super Power Sunscreen Mousse with Broad Spectrum SPF 50. This is Supergoop!’s new way of delivering sunscreen in a whipped mousse formula. It has a lightweight feel but is super hydrating on the skin. It’s long lasting and perfect for the pool, beach or deck. There are two sizes and the nozzles on both are the same which makes it nice for easy application.

Above: Sunglasses // Coverup // Pink Beach Towel // Mousse Sunscreen

The larger size is 7.1 fl oz while the mini is 3.4 fl oz. Below is a closer look at the mousse right out of the nozzle. I love that it doesn’t have that traditional sunscreen smell.

Above: Hat older style (similar here) // Sunglasses // Sandals // Shorts

Key ingredients for this one include blue sea kale for antioxidant protection which protects the skin against heat rays and also diminishes the damage from UVA/UVB rays. It also has a blend of shea butter, olive and avocado oils to keep skin moisturized and prevents it from getting dried out. Instructions are to reapply after 80 minutes of swimming. It is water resistant but it’s always recommended to reapply. Otherwise apply at least every 2 hours.

Up next is the Defense Refresh Setting Mist with Broad Spectrum SPF 50. This one comes in 3 sizes and they are all 3.4 oz and under so all are TSA approved! This is one of Supergoop!’s answers to reapplying SPF on the face over makeup without ruining the work you’ve done for the day. They’ve improved the spray nozzle to produce an even finer mist based upon requests from customers. Love it when a brand takes customer feedback to improve their products, especially for ease of use! It has SPF 50 and you shake the bottle and spray in a circular motion on the face multiple times. There’s a ball inside to mix the contents up so be sure to shake it. This one has a hydrating feel.

Above: Clear pouch // Instant Camera // Defense Setting Mist // Nail Polish in Coralium

Last but not least is the Mineral Invincible Setting Powder SPF 45. This is a 100% mineral formula that will set your make-up, reduce shine and refresh UV and environmental protection. It’s a white translucent formula which works like a translucent setting powder. It’s good for touch ups and has a super soft brush to blend the powder. It gives the skin a blurred effect and looks white only for under minute before it sets and adjusts. I hope they will add a tinted version in the future (like their CC creams). It’s refillable and nice for on the go. The brush is retractable making it convenient to carry in your purse or beach bag. Shown below is the way it looks before you put it together. Simply twist off the white cap and insert into the base (it’s a twist kind of lock).

My two favorites out of everything I’ve tried from the line include the Everyday Sunscreen with Cellular Response Technology SPF 50 and the Super Power Sunscreen Mousse SPF 50. The formulas are best suited for my skin type – I like these on the body and they are easy to reapply without feeling heavy. The formulas do have a hydrating effect and give the skin a nice glow without looking or feeling greasy.

If you’re in search for a new summer sunscreen this season I hope you found this post helpful! I’ve been more diligent about applying and reapplying these days and I’m one who usually hates sunscreen because of the texture and scent. I’m so glad that brands are more aware of creating formulas that are suitable for everyday and not just for the beach. I’ve finally found some favorites and if you’ve tried any from the line let me know in the comments.

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Many thanks to Supergoop! for partnering to sponsor this post.

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Beauty Favorites Skincare Suncare

Sunscreen Testing Part 2: Face Formulas

June 5, 2017

Shown above: Beach tray by Gray Malin, sunglasses from Jcrew, pouch by Goyard

I have Part 2 of my sunscreen testing to share today. Historically I’ve neglected using a separate sunscreen for the face thinking often times either my moisturizer or foundation with SPF was sufficient. I also react to a lot of skincare with red bumps. Not knowing exactly what ingredients caused an allergic reaction also prevented me from using face sunscreen diligently. This changed once I discovered some really good formulas from Kiehl’s, Eve Lom and Tatcha which were lightweight, unscented and suitable for my sensitive skin.

The Tatcha Pore Perfecting Sunscreen has been my most used sunscreen for the face because I found it really smoothed everything out, didn’t break me out, doubled as a pore smoother, worked well under foundation and helped protect my skin. Chanel UV Essential in the SPF 50 was a go-to for years because of the lightweight fluid texture. It did not do the best with running or sports if any sweating occurred and stung the eyes pretty bad. I’ve tested other formulas and brands by popular request and specific recommendations from readers. I wanted to find alternatives with higher SPF that would also suit my husband’s taste but in the end we each have our favorites which is ok because we have completely different skin types. As I age I’m being more proactive about protecting my skin. Still when it comes to sunscreen it’s overwhelming for me to discern what’s good vs. bad. The effective ingredients vs. necessary combination of ingredients for a stable product. Everyone has a different opinion and with all the information to sort through I’ve gone through a mix of reading other reviews, getting individual recommendations and also just testing items myself.

If you have any expert opinions please chime in the comments. Any information or details would help! Note that these are simply what I tested on my own to see what was suitable for my skintype. I wanted to see what worked well with foundation and also which ones held up the best under different weather conditions. I’ve split the 11 I tested into two categories. One is chemical and the second is physical. This is based on the ingredients although there was 1 formula I was unsure of which you’ll see below.

Part 1: Sunscreens with either Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide or both, most of these are considered physical or mineral sunscreens which you can find more information about here. I’ll list the active ingredients as they are labeled on each bottle. Note that formulas are subject to change so this is what is on each product as of the date of this post. With body sunscreens most formulas come in multiple sizes which is why I didn’t list the prices/weight in the body sunscreen post. However it seems more of the face formulas come in a single size. I’ll list the current prices and sizes below for reference.

Shown above include sunscreens that don’t have a white cast, aren’t thick, are suitable for my sensitive skin and hold up relatively well to humid weather conditions. There is some humidity where pretty much nothing will hold up. We got rained on in Orlando twice with some warm summer showers and I don’t think anything stayed on. However with two full days in Disneyworld we used the Supergoop! Mineral (my mother in law used this one), Glossier Invisible Shield (I used this one), La Roche-Posay (husband used on the face) and the Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF50 on the body (me and the hubby used this) and I’m happy to report we didn’t get burned a single bit.

Supergoop! Daily Correct CC Cream with Omega-3 and Omega-6 – Light/Medium
- Broad Spectrum SPF35, PA+++
- $32 for 1.6 fl oz/47 ml (also available in two other shades)
- Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 2%, Zinc Oxide 20% (full ingredients listed on Supergoop!)
- I know BB creams and CC creams are huge in the beauty world. I’ve never found one I liked until this one. Most are just too thick in formula, too sheer or just simply the wrong shade with SO MUCH pink or orange. I don’t understand why they can’t make yellow based ones! This one went on a bit on the pink side but I was relieved that it adjusted within a few minutes. It offers sheer to medium super natural coverage. It did have enough to even out the skin tone. It has ingredients to protect skin with light-diffusing mica to soften look of lines and wrinkles. I like that it has a hydrating feel with a slightly dewy glow but doesn’t get oily. I do think the color selection is limited, but if you have normal to dry skin and can find a good match this is a great option.
Supergoop! Skin Soothing Mineral Sunscreen with Olive Polyphenols
- Broad Spectrum SPF 40, PA+++
- $28 for 2.4 fl oz/71 ml (also available in a smaller size)
- Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5%, Zinc Oxide 10.1% (full ingredients listed on Supergoop!)
- This was a new to me product and I gave a bottle to my mother-in-law to try. She visited recently and we were chatting about sunscreen and she said she just hates the sticky feel of product on her face. I had an extra bottle for her to try and she used it every day the week she was here (I forgot to ask her what she thought!). I personally like this one a lot and I don’t consider myself a fan of mineral sunscreens. This one has olive oil polyphenols which are supposed to calm redness and reduce inflammation. It is one of the longer lasting face products. It dries to a semi-matte finish and you can feel that it adheres well to the skin. Since it stays put you need to take extra care at the end of the day to cleanse the skin thoroughly. Your regular cleanser simply won’t take it off. Both my husband and I found with long-wearing face sunscreens if you don’t cleanse the skin properly after working out or in the evenings then your face becomes more break-out prone.
Dior Capture Totale DreamSkin Perfect Skin Cushion – 20 and 30
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- $82 for 15 g/0.5 oz (also comes with a refill)
- Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7%, Titanium Dioxide 4.15%, Zinc Oxide 9.8%
- So this one falls into the sunscreen skincare category because several Dior reps corrected me while I chatted with them that this is NOT foundation, but a skincare with a tint. I went to several counters when this launched and the shades I would use 20 or 30 were sold out nearly everywhere. Each rep made it a point to tell me that “this is skincare in the form of a cushion” and not intended as foundation. I bought two shades when I finally found them and right now I use 30. My friend RaeView confirmed and assured me that even though it’s technically skincare it’s still a suitable base and she is 100% correct. I’ve been using this for several months now and since I like more coverage I use this as a skincare/sunscreen base then layer my foundation on top. It doesn’t look thick, doesn’t oxidize, doesn’t get goopy. It’s pure love. Finding a color match can be tricky as I do think it’s limited. For a while I was mixing both 20 and 30. It has the Capture Totale skincare ingredients inside (I used to use the line) to give the skin a youthful looking glow. Product description says “matte” but it’s really not matte, but just natural. I took this with me on my Dallas and NY trips over the spring and love it.
Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen
- Broad Spectrum SPF 35
- $65 for 60 ml/2 fl oz
- Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 15%, Octisalate 5%
- This is the best sunscreen I’ve tried with a matte finish without looking powdery. It has a silky feel that glides on the skin. I use this on top of my regular serum or moisturizer like I do with all sunscreens. It works well with foundation and tinted moisturizer formulas. Lasts all day without sliding off. It does take some work to wash off in the evenings. My husband tried this and found it so long lasting there was about a week he used it and told me “it broke me out” and I told him he had to double cleanse his face with this one. He did for another week and his skin cleared up. It’s so long lasting if you don’t rinse it off completely I do suspect some dirt or sweat could still be trapped underneath.
Darphin Intral Enviornmental Lightweight Shield
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- $45 for 30 ml/1 fl oz
- Active Ingredients Titanium Dioxide 6.3%, Zinc Oxide 4.0%
- This is a new sunscreen that is part of the Darphin Intral line designed for sensitive skin. As a huge fan of Darphin I was so excited to try this. Over the past few months (since early spring) this became my new favorite, especially because it has SPF50 and a peachy nude tint. It does disappear on the skin but I love that it’s not white. It’s fluid with some consistency so it’s not super liquidy. Darphin calls this a triple action gentle makeup base because it gives the skin a luminous look, protects skin from pollution and prevents damage. I apply over moisturizer and under foundation and it sets nicely onto the skin without any greasy feel or separation. You do need to shake the bottle before use.

Up next are the chemical face sunscreens I tested out. The only one I wasn’t entirely sure on was the Eve Lom. In looking for sunscreens to test out the two things I looked for when testing a few in store was: no smell and no white cast. Even though I wear foundation with coverage on top which can usually cancel out any white cast, for me it’s always been a no-go. If there’s any hint of a white cast I just won’t try it.

Shown above:

Fresh Sugar Sport Treatment Stick Sunscreen
- SPF 30
- $25 for .2 oz
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2%, Octinoxate 7.49%, Octisalate 3%
- This one is shown because my husband loves it. It’s one of the few he feels really stays put under his eyes on his cheekbone area for when he goes running. He thinks it’s great for touch ups as well. He’ll apply his Kiehl’s Activated Sun Protector or Facial Fuel UV Guard on his face on top of his moisturizer, then he’ll add the Fresh Sugar Sport on areas he wants more coverage where the sun hits. It’s multi-use so you can use it on the face, lips and eye area. He uses this on his face and eye area. For me I felt it was too thick for my personal taste. It did work really well for touch ups and to last long. It has that delicious Fresh Sugar smell, I just didn’t like the texture as I’m all about weightless.
La Roche-Posay Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid Anthelios 60
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- $30 for 1.7 fl oz/50 ml
- Active Ingredients: Avonezone 3%, Homosalate 10.72%, Octisalate 3.21%, Octocrylene 6%, Oxybenzone 3.86%
- This brand has been one of the most recommended lines to me so I gave this formula a try after seeing it at Blue Mercury. Performance-wise this is in the top favorites for both my husband and I for the light fluid texture and matte dry down. It worked well to prevent tanning and burns on our face and for me it worked well with my makeup. It does contain oxybenzone which is a controversial chemical ingredient – there are conflicting views on how safe (or unsafe) it is. Also according to a few reviews on Makeupalley some have indicated the US formula is different from the European formula. I’ve only tried the one in the US so can’t report on the differences. If you’re not one who wants chemical sunscreens they do have a mineral version.
Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen + (10% off referral code by clicking on this link)
- Broad Spectrum SPF 35
- $30 for 1 fl oz/30 ml
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 6%, Octisalate 5%
- Being a beauty junkie I had to try this one. I ordered a couple from Glossier and it has the most unique sunscreen formula I’ve ever tried. It’s a clear water gel which has no white cast and no residue. It has a semi-matte but natural finish. The formula has tiny microcapsules that are freshly delivered to your skin when you apply it. The reviews online seem mixed but mainly due to two things: price point for product size and the fact that it’s not mineral. I do wish it had higher SPF but I liked the way it performed – it did well to prevent tanning and burn while I was in Orlando. I reapplied pretty diligently every two hours especially since we went through a few rain showers.
Estee Lauder DayWear Advanced Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant and UV Defense
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- $42 for 1 fl oz/30 ml
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 5%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 2.7%, Oxybenzone 3%
- This is another favorite formula of mine. I think it’s particularly good especially if you have normal to dry skin. The water in Florida has dried out our skin a bit and our first months here was during the dry season. The humid weather has normalized my skin a bit more so I don’t know how this will hold up with the humidity in the upcoming weeks. It’s on the more emollient side with a thicker texture but isn’t goopy. It is scented but doesn’t appear to be added fragrance (although I can’t really tell for sure). It has the signature DayWear scent almost like pear. It does contain Oxybenzone so might not be for everyone. I found it suitable for my sensitive skin and like the way it wears.
Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- $8 for 1 fl oz/30 ml (also available in travel and full size)
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0%, Homosalate 4.0%, Octinoxate 6.0%, Octisalate 3.0%
- I bought this mini to try it out because I wasn’t sure how I’d like the full size. For those who always wonder how makeup wearers are supposed to reapply sunscreen to a full face of makeup you’re not alone. It’s one of the main reasons why I don’t reapply on the face because you literally have to take everything off and redo it all which just isn’t practical. This is one of Supergoop!’s answers to reapplying without having to redo your makeup. It’s called a setting mist which it does, but I really prefer this as a mid-day reapplication on the face if I’m going outside. It’s described as a “Matte finish three-in-one mist, sets make-up, controls oil, and delivers UV photoaging protection.” The full size says to 7 to 10 times in a circle on your face with your eyes closed. It dispenses a super fine even mist so after you are done spritzing keep the eyes closed for about 3 seconds or there will still be mist particles that can get in your eyes. The ones they have now have a new better mist dispenser as they took feedback from customers to improve it. I never tried the older version so I can’t compare the two though.
Eve Lom Daily Protection + SPF 50
- $90 for 50 ml
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50
- Active Ingredients: This is one that is Eve Lom describes as containing “six scientific sunscreens and is free from zinc and titanium dioxide.” It’s not mineral but I am not sure this falls into the chemical category. Ingredients listed on Space NK and Sephora.
- This is my second tube of this sunscreen even though it’s really expensive. It’s one of the best unscented options I’ve tried and I like that it has a high SPF. It does plump the skin and smooth it for a soft texture. It does appear to improve elasticity in the skin for a more youthful look. Still $95 is very pricey and since I use skincare underneath sunscreen I don’t know that I will repurchase given some other finds that I’ve found that I really like.

That wraps up my face sunscreen testing for this summer. I do suspect there will be more formulas I will try as summer progresses but I have a lot to keep me busy. Normally sunscreen takes me a while to use up but both my husband and I have been using it daily and reapplying when we go outside so we’re using everything up pretty quickly. Quick take on our favorites:

My top favorite formulas: Tatcha, Darphin and the Dior Dreamskin Cushion
Andrew’s favorite formulas: He still likes all things Kiehl’s, but also likes the La Roche-Posay and Fresh Sugar Sport Stick
Longest lasting formula for me: Tatcha and Supergoop! Mineral
Misses: No formula misses for me, I do wish some of the lower SPF ones came in higher, but I can live with 35

I consider myself very fortunate that none of these caused an allergic reaction or bumps. If you have favorites or input please share in the comments below. I’m still learning and if you have info you want to share I’m all ears!

Press samples include the Darphin Intral and Supergoop! CC Cream. Gray Malin tray gifted. All others purchased by me.

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Suncare

Best Sunscreens & Sun Care Essentials

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Aftersun Balm

Self-Tanner

Misses

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Sunscreens for the Body

Sun Care Face Formulas

Best Sunscreens for Summer

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Favorite Body Sunscreens

Face Sunscreens – Clear

Tinted Sunscreens

Andrew’s Favorites

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By Terry Sun Designer Palettes Hippy Chic + Happy Sun and UV Base Sunscreen Cream SPF 50

Touch-Up Beauty Essentials

Summer Beach Bag Essentials with Supergoop!

Sunscreen Testing Part 2: Face Formulas

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