Tag: Sunscreen Review

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50+ Tinted Hydrating Cream

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50+ Tinted Hydrating Cream

mgbcreatives

I have been wanting to give the La Roche-Posay Anthelios line a try for a good while now. So when I found the La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50+ Tinted Hydrating Cream on sale I had to give it a go. What a disappointment. I can not even review this product effectively as I simply can not wear it.

On application, my skin turns the kind of orange that would scare an oompaloompa off. And that folks is all I can say about that. If the product is unwearable then I simply can not tell if it will break me out, get greasy throughout the day, layer well with other products, etc.

I hate having to waste product, but this will have to be tossed, it is of no use to me, not even on my body.

The sunscreen comes in a 50ml tube with a pump and has a shelf life of 12 months.

The finish of the product is dewy and the scent is not overly “SPF”. It works into the skin well (apart from the orange cast).

I wish I could have learned a little more about this sunscreen, but it is what it is. I will not be repurchasing, which I guess is a blessing is disguise as this brand is not cruelty free.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest, and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

THE BRAND

La Roche-Posay is a French Pharmacy brand that is recommended by dermatologists on the regular as it is gentle on the skin.

La Roche-Posay is not cruelty free nor are they 100% vegan.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Diisopropyl Sebacate works primarily as a handy helper ingredient in sunscreen formulas. It helps to create high-SPF formulas with reduced concentrations of UV-filters and it also helps to create cosmetically elegant formulas. It absorbs rapidly, makes the product easily spreadable and reduces greasiness coming from the oil-soluble sunscreen agents.
  • Glycerin is a skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent.
  • Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine is a UV filter and absorber.
  • Propanediol can enhance the absorption of ingredients and has hydrating properties.
  • Ethylhexyl Salicylate is a UV absorber and filter.
  • Ethylhexyl Triazone is a new generation, chemical sunscreen that gives the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters today. It protects in the UVB range (280-320nm) with a peak protection of 314nm. It is an oil-soluble, odourless, colourless powder that works well in fragrance-free formulas. It can be used up to 5% worldwide except for the US and Canada.
  • C12-22 Alkyl Acrylate/Hydroxyethylacrylate Copolymer is a binding agent.
  • Drometrizole Trisiloxane is an oil-soluble, photostable chemical sunscreen with both UVB and UVA protection with peak absorbance at 303 nm (UVB) and at 344 nm (UVA).  
  • Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is a UV filter and absorber.
  • Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate works as an anti-caking and oil-absorbing agent. It also gives products good spreadability, long-lasting and velvet touch characteristics. It is popular both in skincare and makeup products.
  • Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891) is a physical sunscreen.
  • Silica is used as an absorbent powder and thickening agent.
  • Tocopherol is Vitamin E, a well-known antioxidant.
  • Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate is an emollient.
  • Acrylates Copolymer is a film-forming agent.
  • Ammonium Acryloydimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer helps in the creation of gel-like textures.
  • Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient. It has antimicrobial benefits and improves the effect of preservatives.
  • CI 77491 is a pigment.
  • CI 77492 is a pigment.
  • CI 77499 is a pigment.
  • Citric Acid is a PH adjuster.
  • Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that prevents certain ingredients from binding with others.
  • Scutellaria Baicalensis Extract/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.
  • T-Butyl Alcohol is a solvent.
  • Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid is a sunscreen agent. It is water-soluble and protects in the UVA range with a peak absorbance at 345 nm. 
  • Triethanolamine is a preservative. 
  • Xanthan Gum is a stabilizer and texture enhancer.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Alcohol Denat is often used as a delivery agent in cosmetic formulations. It can at times be drying, but I do not find that to be the case in this formulation.
  • Parfum/Fragrance. While fragrance does not tend to irritate me I don’t feel it necessary.

CLOSING

I purchased my La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50+ Tinted Hydrating Cream from Kulud Pharmacy in Qatar.

I will not be repurchasing this product as it is simply unwearable for me.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paula’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

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Cetaphil Daylong SPF 50+

Cetaphil Daylong SPF 50+

mgbcreatives

I started using the Cetaphil Daylong SPF 50+ in early February 2021 and it was very quickly retired from my skincare shelf.

This product claims to be a lightweight gel formulation for oily/sensitive skin. Additional claims include that is non-sticky, quickly absorbed and provides a matt finish. I found most of these claims to be far from true on my skin.

In my case the matt finish was non-existent. It was extremely greasy and felt like it never absorbed. This I could have struggled past, but the fact that it stung my eyes made it simply unbearable.

There is no noticeable scent to the product and there is no trace of a white cast on my skin type.

This formulation simply did not agree with me. For those that have managed to make this product work for them – I am happy for you, but I will never use it again.

THE BRAND

Cetaphil has long been a highly recommended brand by dermatologists. “The products were created to be gentle and well-tolerated which was, and still is one of the primary drivers of choice among dermatologists as consistent use of gentle skincare products are key to the health of sensitive skin. Cetaphil products offer effective cleansing and moisturizing for all skin types that are prone to the signs of sensitivity.”

Unfortunately, Cetaphil is not cruelty free.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest, and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

With the Cetaphil Daylong SPF 50+ I found it hard to stay consistent with the reapplication – I simply got way too greasy.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is a chemical sunscreen that only protects against UVB and not UVA rays (the 320-400 nm range). This particular sunscreen is not particularly stable
  • C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is an emollient and texture enhancer.
  • Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is a UV filter. It is designed for high UVA protection and high photostability. It gives sun protection in the whole UVA range (320-400 nm) with peak protection at 354nm.
  • Bis-Ethylhexyloxphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine is a UV filter and absorber. It is said to be one of the best sunscreen agents known today. It is a broad-spectrum (covers the whole UVB and UVA range, 280-400 nm) chemical sunscreen agent with peak protections at about 310 and 345 nm, and unlike older UV filters, it’s very photostable. It hardly deteriorates in the presence of UV light and it’s also useful in stabilizing other less stable sunscreen agents.
  • Dibutyl Adipate is a clear, colourless, odourless oily liquid that makes the formula easily spreadable and also makes the skin nice and smooth (emollient). It’s especially helpful in sunscreens as it can help to solubilize UV filters.
  • Titanium Dioxide (nano) is a physical sunscreen.
  • Dimethicone is a gentle emollient.
  • VP/Eicosene Copolymer is a film-forming agent often used in water-resistant sunscreen products. It helps the sunscreen adhere better to the skin and resist breaking down in the water.
  • Cyclodextrin is an absorbant and chelating agent.
  • Ethylhexyl Triazone is a new generation, chemical sunscreen that gives the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters today. It protects in the UVB range (280-320nm) with a peak protection of 314nm. It is an oil-soluble, odourless, colourless powder that works well in fragrance-free formulas. It can be used up to 5% worldwide except for the US and Canada.
  • Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol (nano) is a hybrid sunscreen agent (half chemical and half physical sunscreen). It gives nice broad-spectrum coverage (280-400 nm, meaning UVB as well as UVA protection) with a peak protection at 305 nm and 360 nm and it is highly photostable.
  • Tocopherol is basically vitamin E. Which is a well known antioxidant. This ingredient does have some comedogenic properties. In other formulations, I have broken out from this, but in this product, I have had no reaction.
  • Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate is a skin-conditioning agent.
  • Silica is used as an absorbent powder and thickening agent.
  • Decyl Glucoside is a vegetable-derived cleansing agent.
  • Triethanolamine is a preservative. 
  • Xanthan Gum is a stabilizer and texture enhancer.
  • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is used as a texture enhancer.
  • Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate helps to neutralize the metal ions in the formulation so it stays good for longer.
  • Lauryl Glucoside is a vegetable-derived cleansing agent.
  • BHT – Butylated hydroxytoluene is a potent synthetic antioxidant.
  • Propylene Glycol is a humectant and delivery ingredient.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Alcohol can be stripping to the skin in certain formulations but is often used as a delivery agent in sunscreens. An ingredient can not be judged on its own, but should rather be judged in conjunction with other ingredients in the formulation.

CLOSING

I purchased my Cetaphil Daylong SPF 50+ from Kulud Pharmacy for QR172.

I hated this sunscreen and will never use it again.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paula’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream

mgbcreatives

The Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream was my first venture into the Cosrx sunscreen realm. Given how much I enjoy the majority of their products, I had a good feeling amount this one. The tube comes in the regular 50ml sizing but did a good job of lasting an adequate amount of time on my shelf. While a hydrating sunscreen is always a bold choice for an oily skinned human, this one provided just the right amount of dewiness.

The cream consistency was an unnecessary concern and the formulation easily melted into my skin. There was no white cast on my pale skin, but I would be interested to know if it shows up on darker skin tones.

The scent of this product reminds me a bit of Nivea cream, but unlike Nivea cream, this did not cause my skin to erupt into hundreds of pimple volcanos all over my face. The scent is actually very refreshing.

This sun cream is an SPF 50+ PA+++ and has wormed its way into my heart. I don’t think this will work for my skin during the hot and humid summer months, but it’s all love for the cooler months.

While this product does contain fragrance and various other floral fragrant components, this does not bother me at all. I am not opposed to fragrance, but if your personal preference is not to have it in your products then I have listed all noteworthy ingredients below.

While the formulation does contain alcohol it is in no way, shape or form dehydrating to the skin. It is simply an ingredient on the list required to produce this beautiful formula.

I would highly recommend this for all skin types. If you are on the oilier side you can also skip the moisturizer when using this – it is plenty hydrating.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest, and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is the most commonly used chemical sunscreen. It absorbs UVB radiation (at wavelengths: 280-320 nm) with a peak protection at 310nm. It only protects against UVB and not UVA rays (the 320-400 nm range). This is not a very stable ingredient. It should be combined with other sunscreens.
  • Glycerin is a skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent with humectant properties.
  • Propylene Glycol is a humectant and delivery ingredient.
  • Cyclopentasiloxane is a lightweight silicone texture enhancer that functions as a conditioning agent.
  • Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid is a UV filter and absorber.
  • Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine is a UV filter and absorber. It is said to be one of the best sunscreen agents known today. It is a broad-spectrum (covers the whole UVB and UVA range, 280-400 nm) chemical sunscreen agent with peak protections at about 310 and 345 nm, and unlike older UV filters, it’s very photostable. It hardly deteriorates in the presence of UV light and it’s also useful in stabilizing other less stable sunscreen agents.
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate functions as a skin-conditioning agent, emollient, and solvent.
  • Isoamyl P-Methoxycinnamate is an oil-soluble, chemical sunscreen agent that protects in the UVB (290-320 nm) range with a peak absorbance at 310 nm and with some additional protection in the UVA II (320-340nm) range. It is a newer generation UV filter.
  • Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is used as a cleansing agent. It is described as the golden standard emulsifier for emulsions (oil+water mixtures) that are difficult to stabilize. It can boost SPF protection and increase the water-resistance of the formula. 
  • Dimethicone is a gentle emollient.
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Glyceryl Stearate is an emollient emulsifier.
  • Titanium Dioxide is a physical sunscreen.
  • C14-22 Alcohols is an emulsifier.
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate is a texture enhancer
  • Cetearyl Alcohol is a texture enhancer.
  • Peg-100 Stearate is an emollient and cleansing agent.
  • Triethanolamine is a preservative. 
  • Silica is used as an absorbent powder and thickening agent.
  • Sodium Hydroxide is used to balance the PH of products.
  • Stearic Acid has shown to protect against TEWL.
  • Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient. It has antimicrobial benefits and improves the effect of preservatives.
  • Phenoxyethanol is a preservative.
  • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a texture enhancer.
  • Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract is a moisturizing and skin-soothing agent.
  • Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate is the salt form of the main anti-inflammatory ingredients of the liquorice plant. It is used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Xanthan Gum is a stabilizer and texture enhancer.
  • Tocopheryl Acetate is Vitamin E, a well-known antioxidant.
  • Disodium Edta is a chelating agent that prevents certain ingredients from binding with others.
  • Benzyl Alcohol is an organic preservative.
  • Benzyl Benzoate is a common fragrance ingredient. It can also be a solvent and can fight against microbes and insects very well. It has allergen potential.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Alcohol can be stripping to the skin in certain formulations but is often used as a delivery agent in sunscreens. An ingredient can not be judged on its own, but should rather be judged in conjunction with other ingredients in the formulation.
  • Fragrance quite often has some reason or another for being included in a product formulation. My feelings on it are indifferent. If the fragrance is too strong I would rather not have it, but in this case, the scent of the product is mild and pleasant.
  • Limonene is comprised of many natural fragrant ingredients. This ingredient can cause sensitivity. Limonene has antioxidant benefits and skin-penetrating benefits, but can be volatile. To date, this ingredient has not caused me any concern, but get to know how your skin reacts to it.
  • Hexyl Cinnamal is a fragrant ingredient that has allergen potential.
  • Linalool is a fragrant component of lavender and coriander. It can be a strong skin sensitizer. It does not bother me in this formulation.
  • Benzyl Salicylate is a fragrant component that has allergen potential.
  • Geraniol s a volatile fragrance ingredient extracted from geranium, geraniol is capable of causing sensitivity. Typically geraniol does not penetrate the skin deeply and therefore is not the worst of the sensitizing ingredients.
  • Citronellol is a volatile fragrance chemical extracted from geranium, rose, and other plants. It can cause aggravation when exposed to air.
  • Citral is a possibly sensitizing fragrant component.

CLOSING

I purchased my Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream from YesStyle.

I loved this this sunscreen for the winter months and would be happy to repurchase and use again.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paula’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

Biore Aqua Rich UV Watery Essence

Biore Aqua Rich UV Watery Essence

mgbcreatives

I have heard so many good things about the Biore Aqua Rich UV Watery Essence, and it did not disappoint.

The one thing that needs to be mentioned straight off the bat is the strong alcohol smell on the application. It has absolutely no drying effect on me though so I can get over the smell as it does dissipate quickly.

This is the perfect application in a sunscreen in my opinion.

It’s watery texture absorbs into the skin quickly leaving no white cast or residue. It is so light weight that I don’t even feel like I have applied sunscreen.

It has an SPF of 50+ PA++++

This sunscreen gives my favourite Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence a run for its money.

I will definitely be ordering more of this.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest, and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

This sunscreen is not as nourishing as some others so don’t skip the moisturizer with this one.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is the most commonly used chemical sunscreen. It absorbs UVB radiation (at wavelengths: 280-320 nm) with a peak protection at 310nm. It only protects against UVB and not UVA rays (the 320-400 nm range). This is not a very stable ingredient. It should be combined with other sunscreens.
  • Ethylhexyl Triazone is a new generation, chemical sunscreen that gives the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters today. It protects in the UVB range (280-320nm) with a peak protection of 314nm. It is an oil-soluble, odorless, colorless powder that works well in fragrance-free formulas. It can be used up to 5% worldwide except for the US and Canada.
  • Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient ester that makes the skin smooth.
  • Lauryl Methacrylate/Na Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a slip agent that gives sunscreen formulas long-lasting, lightweight and non-sticky properties.
  • Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is a UV filter. It is designed for high UVA protection and high photostability. It gives sun protection in the whole UVA range (320-400 nm) with a peak protection at 354nm.
  • Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a skin-softening agent and emollient. It has a rich, thick texture.
  • Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine is a UV filter and absorber. It is said to be one of the best sunscreen agents known today. It is a broad-spectrum (covers the whole UVB and UVA range, 280-400 nm) chemical sunscreen agent with peak protections at about 310 and 345 nm, and unlike older UV filters, it’s very photostable. It hardly deteriorates in the presence of UV light and it’s also useful in stabilizing other less stable sunscreen agents.
  • Palmitic Acid is an emollient.
  • Dextrin is a little helper ingredient that can be a thickener, a humectant, a foam booster, an adhesion promoter, and a filler. It’s a blend of polysaccharides that helps to moisturize and soften the skin. 
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Xylitol helps to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier.
  • Acrylates/​C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is used as a texture enhancer.
  • Dimethicone is a gentle emollient.
  • C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is an emollient and texture enhancer.
  • Glycerin is a skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent with humectant properties.
  • Glyceryl Stearate is an emollient emulsifier.
  • Propanediol is a glycol that helps to enhance the absorption of ingredients into the skin.
  • Glyceryl Behenate has gelling and emulsion stabilizing properties.
  • Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer is a blend of silicone polymers that work as a thickening agent and texture enhancer.
  • Cetanol is an emulsifying aid.
  • Agar is a viscosity controlling agent.
  • Sorbitan Distearate is an emollient.
  • Isoceteth-20 works as an emulsifier or solubilizer.
  • Polyvinyl Alcohol is a film-forming, and binding agent.
  • Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Suporima is a viscosity controlling agent.
  • Stearoyl Glutamate is an emulsifier.
  • Arginine is an amino acid considered to be essential to human development. It has antioxidant properties.
  • Hydroxide K is a PH adjuster.
  • Hydroxide Na is a PH adjuster.
  • Royal Jelly Extract is a skin-conditioning agent.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Na is the salt form of Hyaluronic acid. This salt is a powerful humectant that attracts and holds water to it.
  • Phenoxyethanol is a preservative.
  • EDTA-2Na is a stabilizing agent.
  • BHT – Butylated hydroxytoluene is a potent synthetic antioxidant.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Ethanol is a type of alcohol that can be sensitizing to the skin. Typically, it is used in sunscreens as a deliver/penetration agent.
  • Perfume

CLOSING

I purchased my Biore Aqua Rich UV Watery Essence from YesStyle.

I very much enjoyed this sunscreen and would be happy to repurchase and use again.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paula’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

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Purito Centella Green Level Safe Sun

Purito Centella Green Level Safe Sun

mgbcreatives

THIS PRODUCT HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE MARKET DUE TO SPF RATING CONCERNS. PLEASE CHECK THE BRAND’S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

I switched to the Purito Centella Green Level Safe Sun after finishing off my Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence. The application on this SPF is thicker and takes a little more work to get absorbed into the skin.

The ingredients list of this sunscreen is very similar to that of the Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence, but it is definitely a different formulation.

At first, I was shocked at the white cast since the product claims to have none, but as you work it in the initial white tint dissipates quickly. It does, however, take a fair amount of time to work into the skin.

There is a noticeable scent to this sunscreen. This, I assume, can be attributed to the Lavender Oil.

As with all sunscreens I purchase this one is SPF50 PA++++.

While this is a good sunscreen it does not compare the the Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence. I will finish this off but will probably not repurchase.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

Remember to wait 30 minutes after application before leaving the house or applying makeup. This is just to allow the sunscreen to settle in.

This sunscreen is full of moisturizing and hydrating ingredients so if it is too hydrating when paired with your moisturizer you should be okay to skip the moisturizer and only use this.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Glycerin is skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent. It also provides hydration.
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate functions as a skin-conditioning agent, emollient and solvent.
  • Dibutyl Adipate is a clear, colourless, odourless oily liquid that makes the formula easily spreadable and also makes the skin nice and smooth (emollient). It’s especially helpful in sunscreens as it can help to solubilize UV filters.
  • Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is a UV filter. It is designed for high UVA protection and high photostability. It gives sun protection in the whole UVA range (320-400 nm) with a peak protection at 354nm.
  • Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a skin-softening agent and emollient. It has a rich, thick texture.
  • 1,2-Hexanediol is a preservative.
  • Niacinamide has the ability to visibly improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness, and a weakened skin surface. 
  • Ethylhexyl Triazone is a new generation, chemical sunscreen that gives the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters today. It protects in the UVB range (280-320nm) with a peak protection of 314nm. It is an oil-soluble, odourless, colourless powder that works well in fragrance-free formulas. It can be used up to 5% worldwide except for the US and Canada.
  • Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is a texture enhancer and emollient.
  • Silica is used as an absorbent powder and thickening agent.
  • Cetearyl Olivate functions as an emulsifier and slip agent or texture enhancer.
  • Cetearyl Alcohol is a texture enhancer.
  • Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract is a source of amino acids and has soothing properties. This ingredient performs very well on my combo/oily and acne-prone skin.
  • Hyaluronic Acid functions as a superior skin-replenishing ingredient. It has restorative abilities and can boost skin’s moisture content, soothe, and defend against moisture loss.
  • Sorbitan Olivate is an emulsifier.
  • Glyceryl Stearate SE is a self-emulsifying form of Glyceryl Stearate which is an emollient and a surfactant.
  • Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate is an oil-loving emulsifier that helps oil and water to mix nicely together.
  • Sorbitan Stearate creates water-in-oil emulsions.
  • Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that prevents certain ingredients from binding with others.
  • Adenosine is a yeast-based skin-conditioning ingredient that has proven anti-wrinkle benefits.
  • Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient. It has antimicrobial benefits and improves the effect of preservatives.
  • Ethylhexylglycerin is a skin-softening agent also used as a preservative, a carrier, or suspending agent for other preservatives such as Phenoxyethanol.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Tocopherol is basically vitamin E. Which is a well known antioxidant. This ingredient does have some comedogenic properties. In other formulations, I have broken out from this, but in this product, I have had no reaction.
  • Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil is primarily used as a fragrance ingredient and can be skin sensitizing. In this formulation, I do not notice any scent and I am not reactive to it.
  • Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil is a chamomile product. Thus it has skin-soothing benefits. However, it can also be irritating to people with certain plant sensitivities. I have experienced no sensitivity to this ingredient.

CLOSING

I purchased my Purito Centella Green Level Safe Sun from YesStyle.

Please feel free to use my rewards code to get a little extra off your purchase.

I will continue to use this product until I finish it, but the Dear Klairs options still has my heart.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paul’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

Labiotte UV Veil No Sebum Sun Mist

Labiotte UV Veil No Sebum Sun Mist

mgbcreatives

My sole reason for purchasing the Labiotte UV Veil No Sebum Sun Mist was to do sunscreen reapplication over makeup.

This was an epic fail.

The spray component of this product is not fine enough to use over makeup. It gives an aggressive concentrated spray which ruined my foundation every time.

This fact on its own was enough for to give it a low rating as it failed at its primary objective, but top of this it left my skin feeling tight and dehydrated.

Being an oily girl I do like having sebum control in my day time products and this invariably comes with some form of drying out. Unfortunately, the tightness in my face after an application was unbearable for me.

The product claims to lightweight and refreshing. I would agree with the “lightweight” portion of that statement, but not on the refreshing statement.

It is said to deeply hydrate the skin – I disagree with this. I felt the exact opposite – extremely dehydrated.

While this sunscreen was sebum controlling the compromise was simply too much for me. This coupled together with the fact that it failed at being applied over makeup resulted in me not wanting to use this product again.

It does contain some good chemical sunscreen ingredients which leads me to believe that it is effective in this department at least.

I guess the search shall continue for a spray SPF that can be applied over a full face of makeup.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

This particular sunscreen was purchased in order to reapply over makeup during the day.

The product should be shaken first.

Hold away from the face and spray evenly over your face.

The mist was not fine enough to properly distribute over the skin so I used a makeup cushion to tap it in. This 9/10 messed up my foundation which then needs to be touched up as well.

INGREDIENTS

  • Purified Water
  • Dibutyl Adipate is a clear, colourless, odourless oily liquid that makes the formula easily spreadable and also makes the skin nice and smooth (emollient). It’s especially helpful in sunscreens as it can help to solubilize UV filters.
  • Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is a new generation, chemical sunscreen agent that’s designed for high UVA protection and high photostability. It gives sun protection in the whole UVA range (320-400 nm) with a peak protection at 354nm.
  • Niacinamide has the ability to visibly improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness, and a weakened skin surface. 
  • Ethylhexyl Triazone is a new generation, chemical sunscreen that gives the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters today. It protects in the UVB range (280-320nm) with a peak protection of 314nm.
  • Silica is used as an absorbent powder and thickening agent.
  • Polysorbate 60 is an emulsifier, which means it helps oil and water to mix together.
  • Sorbitan Stearate creates water-in-oil emulsions.
  • Ethyl Hexanediol is a solvent.
  • PEG 100 Stearate is an emollient and cleansing agent.
  • Glyceryl Stearate is an emollient emulsifier.
  • Allantoin is a skin-soothing and skin-conditioning agent. This is a good ingredient for both sensitive and oily skin types.
  • Glyceryl Caprylate is an emollient.
  • Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that prevents certain ingredients from binding with others.
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Adenosine is a yeast-based skin-conditioning ingredient that has proven anti-wrinkle benefits.
  • Cotton Extract is said to be a skin-conditioning agent. In this formulation, it is marketed to control sebum production.
  • Glycerin is skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent. It also provides hydration.
  • PEG-8 is used as a solubilizer and viscosity control agent.
  • Centella Extract is a favourite ingredient. This is yet another antioxidant with skin-soothing properties.
  • Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient. It has antimicrobial benefits and improves the effect of preservatives.
  • PPG-1-P Easy-9 Lauryl Glycol Ether is an emulsifier.
  • Sunflower Seed Extract is used as an emollient.
  • Western Pine Leaf/Stem Extract – I can not find information on this ingredient.
  • Hojang Root Extract – I can not find information on this ingredient.
  • Golden Extract – am not clear on what this ingredient actually is.
  • Spanish Licorice Root Extract is a skin-lightening and anti-inflammatory ingredient.
  • Phytic Acid has the main function of neutralizing metal ions but also has some antioxidant benefits.
  • Green Tea Extract This is one of my favourite ingredients due to its antioxidant and skin-soothing properties.
  • Sodium Polyacrylate is a handy multi-tasker that thickens up water-based formulas and also has some emulsifying and emulsion stabilizing properties. It has strong water-binding properties.
  • Matricaria Flower Extract is used for its anti-inflammatory properties.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Fragrance can be sensitizing to some skins. Mine, however, does not have an issue with it. Whether you are for or against fragrance is your own personal choice it is simply noted here to make you aware that it is included in this formulation.
  • Rosemary Leaf Extract has antioxidant benefits for the skin and has shown to have a calming effect on the skin. This ingredient can be sensitizing. I have not had any reaction to this.

CLOSING

I purchased my Labiotte UV Veil No Sebum Sun Mist from YesStyle.

Please feel free to use my rewards code to get a little extra off your purchase.

I will not repurchase this sunscreen.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paul’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence

Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence

mgbcreatives

THIS PRODUCT HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE MARKET DUE TO SPF RATING CONCERNS. PLEASE CHECK THE BRAND’S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

I am completely in love with the Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence.

This UV essence is moisturizing, absorbs easily, is non-irritating, leaves no white cast and leaves the skin with a soft natural glow (no greasiness in sight).

With highly hyped products such as this, I usually approach with a heavy dose of caution. For the first time, I feel that this product truly does deserve the cult status it has achieved.

At 80ml the size is slightly larger than the average sunscreen (which is highly appreciated).

I have read other reviews where people have found this product to provide too much of a glow for their oily skin, this was not so in my instance. I found the level of glow to be perfect and no greasy residue.

This sunscreen wears well under makeup and is a great everyday, indoor chemical sunscreen.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

Remember to wait 30 minutes after application before leaving the house or applying makeup. This is just to allow the sunscreen to settle in.

This sunscreen is full of moisturizing and hydrating ingredients so if it is too hydrating when paired with your moisturizer you should be okay to skip the moisturizer and only use this.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate functions as a skin-conditioning agent, emollient and solvent.
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Dibutyl Adipate is a clear, colourless, odourless oily liquid that makes the formula easily spreadable and also makes the skin nice and smooth (emollient). It’s especially helpful in sunscreens as it can help to solubilize UV filters.
  • Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is a UV filter. It is designed for high UVA protection and high photostability. It gives sun protection in the whole UVA range (320-400 nm) with a peak protection at 354nm.
  • Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a skin-softening agent and emollient. It has a rich, thick texture.
  • 1,2-Hexanediol is a preservative.
  • Glycerin is skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent.
  • Niacinamide has the ability to visibly improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness, and a weakened skin surface. 
  • Ethylhexyl Triazone is a new generation, chemical sunscreen that gives the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters today. It protects in the UVB range (280-320nm) with a peak protection of 314nm. It is an oil-soluble, odourless, colourless powder that works well in fragrance-free formulas. It can be used up to 5% worldwide except for the US and Canada.
  • Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is a texture enhancer and emollient.
  • Silica is used as an absorbent powder and thickening agent.
  • Cetearyl Olivate functions as an emulsifier and slip agent or texture enhancer.
  • Cetearyl Alcohol is a texture enhancer.
  • Sorbitan Olivate is an emulsifier.
  • Glyceryl Stearate SE is a self-emulsifying form of Glyceryl Stearate which is an emollient and a surfactant.
  • Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate is an oil-loving emulsifier that helps oil and water to mix nicely together.
  • Sorbitan Stearate creates water-in-oil emulsions.
  • Panthenol is a humectant alcohol. This ingredient also promotes wound healing.
  • Beta-Glucan is a sugar. It has some antioxidant properties and is a skin-soothing agent. This is ingredient is said to assist with skin redness and sensitivity.
  • Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that prevents certain ingredients from binding with others.
  • Citrus Junos Fruit Extract is a skin-conditioning agent.
  • Adenosine is a yeast-based skin-conditioning ingredient that has proven anti-wrinkle benefits.
  • Sodium Hyaluronate is the salt form of Hyaluronic acid. This salt is a powerful humectant that attracts and holds water to it.
  • Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil is a good source of vitamin C as well as various B vitamins, vitamin E, lycopene, phytosterols, and numerous phenolic compounds that provide antioxidant benefit.
  • Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient. It has antimicrobial benefits and improves the effect of preservatives.
  • Ethylhexylglycerin is a skin-softening agent also used as a preservative, a carrier, or suspending agent for other preservatives such as Phenoxyethanol.
  • Allantoin is a skin-soothing and skin-conditioning agent. This is a good ingredient for both sensitive and oily skin types.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil is a chamomile product. Thus it has skin-soothing benefits. However, it can also be irritating to people with certain plant sensitivities. I have experienced no sensitivity to this ingredient.
  • Tocopherol is basically vitamin E. Which is a well known antioxidant. This ingredient does have some comedogenic properties. In other formulations, I have broken out from this, but in this product, I have had no reaction.
  • Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil has antioxidant properties but is sensitizing. I, however, have had no reaction to it in this formulation.

CLOSING

I purchased my Dear Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence from YesStyle.

Please feel free to use my rewards code to get a little extra off your purchase.

I love this sunscreen and will always have it on my shelf. Holy grail status.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paul’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

Krave The Beet Shield

Krave The Beet Shield

mgbcreatives

THIS PRODUCT HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE MARKET DUE TO SPF RATING CONCERNS. PLEASE CHECK THE BRAND’S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

The Krave The Beet Shield sunscreen is a great little sunscreen. I thoroughly enjoyed using this. The texture is creamy and absorbs into the skin so well. I have read other reviews where people felt that this was too glowy for their oily skin. While it does leave a definite glow to my skin it did not feel heavy or greasy.

This is another sunscreen that does not leave a white cast (thank the heavens). It also wears very well under make up and can be layered throughout the day.

I did find that I could not use this product when my skin barrier was even slightly compromised. I had a period where my skin barrier was compromised, during that period this burnt my skin on application. Once I had recovered the burning ceased.

The product comes in a 50ml size, which is pretty standard for a sunscreen, but felt like I flew through this much faster than other products.

I would be happy to use this sunscreen again if they provided international shipping in the future.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

Remember to wait 30 minutes after application before leaving the house or applying makeup. This is just to allow the sunscreen to settle in.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Butyloctyl Salicylate is a skin-conditioning agent that also functions as a sunscreen stabilizing agent.
  • Dibutyl Adipate is a clear, colourless, odourless oily liquid that makes the formula easily spreadable and also makes the skin nice and smooth (emollient). It’s especially helpful in sunscreens as it can help to solubilize UV filters.
  • Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract claims to work as a natural moisturizer that might be able to increase the concentration of natural moisturizing factors in the upper layer of the skin giving skin both immediate and longer-term hydration. It is also an antioxidant.
  • Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate is a UV filter. It is designed for high UVA protection and high photostability. It gives sun protection in the whole UVA range (320-400 nm) with a peak protection at 354nm.
  • Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine is a UV filter and absorber. It is said to be one of the best sunscreen agents known today. It is a broad-spectrum (covers the whole UVB and UVA range, 280-400 nm) chemical sunscreen agent with peak protections at about 310 and 345 nm and unlike older UV filters, it’s very photostable. It hardly deteriorates in the presence of UV light and it’s also useful in stabilizing other less stable sunscreen agents.
  • Ethylhexyl Triazone is a new generation, chemical sunscreen that gives the highest photo-stable absorption of all available UVB filters today. It protects in the UVB range (280-320nm) with a peak protection of 314nm. It is an oil-soluble, odourless, colourless powder that works well in fragrance-free formulas. It can be used up to 5% worldwide except for the US and Canada.
  • Glycerin is skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent.
  • Pentylene Glycol is a low molecular weight humectant, emollient and antimicrobial moisturizer.
  • Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate is an oil-soluble, chemical sunscreen agent that protects in the UVB (290-320 nm) range with a peak absorbance at 310 nm and with some additional protection in the UVA II (320-340nm) range. It is a newer generation UV filter.
  • Polysilicone-15 is a silicone-based, chemical sunscreen agent that protects the skin in the UVB range (290-320 nm) with a peak absorbance at 312 nm. It is a colourless to pale yellow liquid with nice and non-shiny sensorial properties. 
  • Inulin Lauryl Carbamate is an emulsifier.
  • Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a film-forming agent.
  • Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a stabilizing agent.
  • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a texture enhancer.
  • Tromethamine is a PH balancer.
  • Methylpropanediol is a solvent with hydrating properties.
  • Isohexadecane is used as a cleansing agent and texture enhancer.
  • Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient. It has antimicrobial benefits and improves the effect of preservatives.
  • Glyceryl Caprylate is an emollient.
  • Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a texturizing powder that’s used as a texture enhancer and soft-focus agent.
  • 1,2-Hexanediol is a preservative.
  • Polysorbate 80 is an emulsifier. The number at the end refers to the oil-loving part and the bigger the number the more emulsifying power it has.
  • Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract is a skin-conditioning agent that is believed to antioxidant activity.
  • Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil is full of emollient and nourishing fatty acids. It’s a high oleic acid oil (50-67% oleic acid and only 0-5% linoleic acid) that makes it very emollient and ideal for dry skin types (and less ideal for acne-prone skin).
  • Sorbitan Oleate is an emulsifier.
  • Ethylhexylglycerin is a skin-softening agent also used as a preservative, a carrier, or suspending agent for other preservatives such as Phenoxyethanol.
  • Allantoin is a skin-soothing and skin-conditioning agent. This is a good ingredient for both sensitive and oily skin types.
  • Epigallocatechin Gallate is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic agent. This is a key component of Green Tea.
  • Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is sodium salt of Vitamin C. It is an antioxidant and brightening agent.
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Resveratrol has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic abilities.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Alcohol can be drying to the skin but is often required in product formulations. It is often found in sunscreen formulations. In this particular product, I did not find the formulation to be drying.

CLOSING

The Krave The Beet Shield is available from the Krave Beauty website.

The only things that would hinder me from repurchasing this sunscreen are the mission to get it shipped to Qatar and the burning sensation under certain conditions. International delivery would be a great benefit though.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paula’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, Skincarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

Paula’s Choice On-the-Go Shielding Powder

Paula’s Choice On-the-Go Shielding Powder

mgbcreatives

When I came across the Paula’s Choice On-the-Go Shielding Powder I thought I had finally found a way to touch up my sunscreen when wearing makeup.

While in all honesty, the product does do this for me it takes so much effort when it comes to the component and applicator that I would rather just use a blotting powder with SPF in it.

The powder is a mineral sunscreen which is great for my acne-prone skin.

One thing to note is the fact that it is very pigmented so I have to be careful during the application or I end up with orange blotches all over my face.

While guess this did the job once the component was removed from the equation I don’t see the point of buying a product that is packaged for easy application and then having to repackage it in order to use it.

I will not be repurchasing.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

HOW TO USE

How you are supposed to use this is by sliding the sleeve down, tilting the brush and taping until powder flows through bristles. The product should be applied evenly over a separate broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+.

In truth, the applicator does not dispense sufficient product and the bristles are rough and scratchy.

I dispensed all the product into a separate container of my own and use a powder brush to touch up makeup throughout the day thus boosting my original SPF application.

INGREDIENTS

  • Zinc Oxide is a mineral sunscreen.
  • Synthetic Fluorphlogopite is the synthetic version of Mica. It can be used as a skin tone enhancer or as a base for multi-layered, composite pigments.
  • Boron Nitride is a synthetic powder with absorbent properties.
  • Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer is a blend of silicone polymers that work as a thickening agent and texture enhancer.
  • Silica is used as an absorbent powder and thickening agent.
  • Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Starch is an absorbent used in the place of talc.
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Stearic Acid has been shown to protect the skin’s surface against water loss and help shore up skin’s protective barrier.
  • Ceramide NP is a naturally occurring lipid that is one of the major components of the outer layer of the skin.
  • Olive Glycerides is an emulsifying humectant.
  • Ascorbyl Palmitate is a stable and nonacidic form of vitamin C.
  • Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract may have skin-soothing benefits.
  • Water
  • Triethoxycaprylylsilane is a binding agent and emulsifier.
  • Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a texturizing powder that’s used as a texture enhancer and soft-focus agent.
  • Nylon-6/12 is an absorbent bulking agent.
  • EDTA is a chelating agent that prevents certain ingredients from binding with others.
  • Retinyl Palmitate is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from UV light exposure.
  • Potassium Sorbate is a preservative.
  • Chlorphenesin is a type of alcohol used as a preservative.
  • Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499) are pigments.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Tocopherol is basically vitamin E. Which is a well known antioxidant. This ingredient does have some comedogenic properties.

CLOSING

I purchased my Paula’s Choice On-the-Go Shielding Powder from Paula’s Choice.

I will not repurchase this product solely due to the fact that I struggled with the component and applicator.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paula’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.

A’pieu Pure Block Aqua Sun Gel

A’pieu Pure Block Aqua Sun Gel

mgbcreatives

The A’pieu Pure Block Aqua Sun Gel used to be my all-time favourite sunscreen. after trying some other Korean sunscreen options I found that I don’t love this as much as I used to.

Alcohol Denat is the second ingredient and you can immediately smell it on application.

While the drying effect this has on my skin is dependant on the rest of my routine, I do often experience tightness after application, which is not a win for me.

I do however love the feel of the product when applying. The texture is light and absorbs easily into the skin leaving no white cast. Another plus for me is the fact that it does not leave my already oily skin more glowy.

This sunscreen does not pill and wears well under makeup. I have experienced no reactions with other products in my routine.

There are pros and cons to this product, but at the end of the day I would prefer something with a lower alcohol concentration that does not leave my skin feeling tight.

MY SKIN TYPE

I have pale combination skin with a very oily t-zone. I suffer from enlarged pores, underlying redness and hyperpigmentation.

At times I can be prone to breakouts, but these days they tend to be more hormonal.

HOW TO USE

Sunscreen is always applied as the last step of the morning skincare routine.

My personal preference to apply a generous amount to the face, neck, chest and ears. Don’t be stingy with the SPF folks. It also helps to reapply every 2 hours or so.

Remember to wait 30 minutes after application before leaving the house.

INGREDIENTS

  • Water
  • Octocrylene is a sunscreen agent that protects the skin from UVB.
  • Butylene Glycol is a texture enhancer.
  • Ethylhexyl Salicylate is a UV absorber and filter.
  • Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is a UV filter and absorber.
  • Dipropylene Glycol is a texture enhancer that has some moisturizing abilities.
  • Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a film-forming agent.
  • Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine is a UV filter and absorber.
  • Dimethicone is a gentle emollient.
  • Cyclopentasiloxane is a lightweight silicone that works as a conditioning agent.
  • Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a stabilizing agent.
  • Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone is a silicone that functions as a skin-conditioning agent and emulsifier.
  • Adansonia Digitata Seed Extract is a skin-conditioning agent.
  • Isohexadecane is used as a cleansing agent and texture enhancer.
  • Ethylhexylglycerin is a skin-softening agent also used as a preservative, a carrier, or suspending agent for other preservatives such as Phenoxyethanol.
  • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a texture enhancer.
  • Potassium Hydroxide is an alkaline ingredient used to balance the PH of a product.
  • 1,2-Hexanediol is a preservative.
  • BHT is an antioxidant. While there have been some concerns raised about the safety of this ingredient. It has been deemed safe in cosmetics.
  • Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that prevents certain ingredients from binding with others.
  • Glycerin is skin-replenishing and skin-restoring agent.
  • Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract is an antioxidant.
  • Phenoxyethanol is a preservative.
  • Potassium Sorbate is a preservative.
  • Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is a humectant with wound healing properties.

INGREDIENTS TO NOTE

  • Alcohol Denat is a drying type of alcohol that aggravates and weakens the skin. Typically, if denatured alcohol is listed as the fifth ingredient or higher, it is of considerable risk for sensitizing skin. In this product, it is the second ingredient listed.
  • Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is a UV filter and absorber. This ingredient can be bad for sensitive skin.
  • Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient. It has antimicrobial benefits and improves the effect of preservatives. This ingredient can be a fungal acne trigger.
  • Polysorbate 60 is an emulsifier, which means it helps oil and water to mix together. This ingredient is a possible fungal acne trigger.
  • Polysorbate 80 is a cleansing agent that may trigger fungal acne.
  • Fragrance.
  • Saussurea Involucrata Extract is a humectant. This ingredient can be sensitizing to the skin.

CLOSING

I purchased my A’pieu Pure Block Aqua Sun Gel from YesStyle.

Please feel free to use my rewards code to get a little extra off your purchase.

While this used to be my favourite Korean Sunscreen, I feel there are better ones out there that are more suited to my skin needs. I do have a fair amount of stock of this product, but luckily my husband loves it.

Visit my skincare page to read more reviews of products I have tried out.

**I source most of the ingredient explanations from Paul’s Choice website, INCI Beauty, Incidecoder, SkinCarisma and CosDNA.

***Please note that these are simply my opinions. Everyone will have skin that responds differently to different ingredients and formulations.