Monday, June 30, 2014

Looking for the PERFECT Sunscreen? Biore, Missha, The Face Shop, and Neutrogena Review!



Left to right: Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen, Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence, The Face Shop Clean Face Oil Free Sun Cream, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen

Ever since returning from my trip to Cancun Mexico sans sunscreen as a baked potato 5 years ago, I've become quite the sunscreen addict. While searching for the "perfect" sunscreen, there are a multitude of factors to consider; varying from your skin type, the SPF level, to other lifestyle concerns. I've been rotating the above sunscreens for a few months now, so below is a brief breakdown of each. Read to the end to find out which is the top performer for my acne-prone, combination skin! 

Left to right: Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen, Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence, The Face Shop Clean Face Oil Free Sun Cream, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen 50mL SPF 50+ PA+++


Definitely not your conventional sunscreen! Water based, so does not leave a white cast or clog your pores. The consistency is slightly runny and looks somewhat lumpy. Upon application however, the essence smooths out and is instantly absorbed into a matte finish (great canvas for makeup). There is a subtle pleasant citrus scent that quickly dissipates after application. The best part? The impressive 50+ SPF and PA+++, which is sure to provide the utmost protection against both UVA and UVB rays even in those sweltering days! Would recommend for: acne-prone skin, oily skin, combination skin, sensitive skin.






Missha All-Around Safe Block Essence 50mL SPF 45 PA+++


Creamy sunscreen that can double as a moisturizer for those that want to save a step in the morning madness. Would be more suitable for dry skin, or if you're going for the "dewy" finish. Has a scent reminiscent of lanolin cream (or other heavy night creams) that is a little too strong for my liking. Again, very impressive UVA and UVB protection. 
Would recommend for dry skin, sensitive skin, combination skin.





The Face Shop Clean Face Oil Free Sun Cream 50mL SPF 35 PA++


All aspects (consistency, smell, finish) are nearly identical to the Missha. Has tea tree oil and aloe vera gel, which makes it more suitable for acne prone skin. Only complaint is the lower sun protection in comparison with others on the market, although it is more than adequate for those less-than-sunny days! 
Would recommend for: acne-prone skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, combination skin.  






Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen 88mL SPF 45 Broadspectrum 


The embodiment of your typical sunscreen. Despite being true to name, it was no more or less sheer than any of the other sunscreens in this review. Unfortunately, I have sensitive skin, and developed an allergic reaction with red bumps all over my face after using this product. Not wanting this huge bottle to go to waste, I began using it on my body and have yet to experience any adverse reactions, yay! 
NOT recommended for sensitive skin. 





Terms
For those unfamiliar with the terms UVA, UVB, PA, SPF, and broadspectrum, here's a simplified blurb:
UVA: Causes photoaging and wrinkles. 
UVB: Causes sunburn and hyperpigmentation.
PA: UVA protection factor. 
SPF: UVB protection factor.  
Broadspectrum:  Both UVA and UVB protection. 

And the winner is... 
Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen! My oily, acne-prone combination skin does not break out, and the high protection is ideal for all occasions! Absorbs into skin oh-so-quickly, and provides an excellent base for makeup. Also remains matte throughout the day, and is amazingly sheer. This has definitely become a staple in my everyday essentials (that's right, sunscreen is not limited to summer use only!)




Which sunscreens have you tried? Please share your favorites!     

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