Tag: face sunscreen

Favorite SPF Lotions for the Face

Favorite SPF Lotions for the Face // Belle Belle Beauty

If you aren’t already getting your mug nice and protected every morning, now is the time to start. SPF is crucial and (along with retinoids) the only thing proven to prevent aging. Here are my current top five for both under makeup and for a day at the pool:

Hampton Sun SPF15 Super Hydrating Face Cream manages to be lightweight and super nourishing. The Calendula soothes my redness-prone skin while Canadian Willow Bark calms. I love how it quickly absorbs and is powered with gentle zinc oxide.  Fragrance and oil free.

CeraVe SPF Sunscreen Stick is relatively new to the market, but you should be able to find this in your drugstore. Perfect for on the go, this stick is also powered with the gentle physical-only sunscreens. The formula finishes dry with no greasy residue.

Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Anti-Aging Sunscreen has long been a favorite (initially reviewed here). It is the trifecta, offering hydration, UV protection and anti-aging benefits. The unique formula keeps the sunscreen in a “reservoir” on the skin, maximizing effectiveness.

Neutrogena Clear Face Break-Out Free Liquid-Lotion Sunblock SPF 55 gives you superior sun protection without clogging pores. The water-light texture is weightless, letting skin breathe. At the same time, it is water-resistant, oil-free and fragrance-free. Not only does it look great under makeup, but also works for those days when outdoor activites call for a feather-weight SPF.

ZO Skin Health ‘Oclipse’ Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30 is the ultimate sunscreen for under a full face of makeup. This stuff has a silky texture with nude coloring. It has no coverage but avoids that nasty white cast. Not only does it have broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection but it blocks natural melanin – BONUS!

Shiseido Suncare and Gift With Purchase

Having access to a pool this summer, my hunt for the perfect sunscreen has become serious business. This weekend, I gave Shiseido suncare a whirl and was seriously impressed. I was using both the Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector SPF 42 (for my face) and the Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 60 (for body). The distinction I found with these gems is that they are both long-lasting, blendable and not greasy. They persisted through many dips in the pool. And while I reapplied every 60 minutes or so, I was protected.

Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector SPF 42 is ultra-light weight and actually mattifies the skin. It contains mineral powders and herbs to prevent over-production of sebum. And while I don’t have oily skin, I appreciated the finish of this sunscreen. It wasn’t glossy or overly dewy. Did I mention my pool is kind of a social scene? I’ve found this sunscreen also works well under makeup.

Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 60 has that high-factor protection I am looking for. It is also “very water resistant” which eases my mind – constantly fretting about the water and sweat washing away my SPF. Remember to liberally reapply, but this stuff did a great job with my near contant pool activity. Both of these come in fairly tiny vessels, but I am sold on their efficacy and fashionable packaging – so I think they are worth every penny.

Plus… Shiseido is offering a suncare special offer, now available online at www.Shiseido.com and at select retailers nationwide, including Macy’s, Bergdorf Goodman, Dillard’s, Lord & Taylor, and more. Purchase any two sun products and receive a custom Shiseido sun tote with a free 75 ml Ultimate Cleansing Oil. The tote is adorable – metallic canvas with long straps and a subtle Shiseido logo. And the cleansing oil has quickly become a favorite for removing persistant sunscreen and even longwear foundation and eye makeup. No better excuse to upgrade your suncare.