Tag: spf 30

Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30

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Another Sunday, another Paula’s Choice mineral sunscreen review! In today’s post, I will be reviewing a travel size of the Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30.

Information on Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30

“This illuminating moisturizer shields skin with all-mineral sun protection plus antioxidants to help protect against the effects of environmental damage.

Creates an instant, healthy glow for makeup-optional skin
12 antioxidants visibly diminish the signs of environment-based aging
Lightweight, illuminating cream
Apply as the last step of your morning routine“

– paulaschoice.com

Price: $29 USD (full size)
Amount: 60ml/2oz (full size)
Packaging:  Opaque hot pink plastic tube.
Water Resistant? No.

UV FILTERS:
Zinc Oxide 6.125% (UVB, UVAII and some UVAI)
Titanium Dioxide 5.25% (UVB and UVAII)

Protection:
UVB: SPF 30
UVA: If U.S. regulations say UVA has to be 1/3rd of the UVB, it should be around a PPD of 10

INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), Isononyl Isononanoate (emollient), Butylene Glycol (texture enhancer), Cetearyl Alcohol (emollient/texture enhancer), Potassium Cetyl Phosphate (emulsifier), Dimethicone (hydration), Glyceryl Stearate (texture enhancer), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract (skin-soothing), Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil (non-fragrant antioxidant plant oil), Tetrapeptide-30, Linoleic Acid (skin-restoring agents), Resveratrol (antioxidant), Ascorbyl Glucoside (vitamin C/antioxidant), Niacinamide (skin-restoring), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Tocopherol (vitamin E/antioxidant), Phospholipids, Lecithin (skin-restoring agents), Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols (antioxidant/hydration), Xanthophylls (antioxidant), Pullulan (texture enhancer), Sodium Gluconate (hydration), Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Alumina (texture enhancers), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (skin-replenishing), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Triethoxycaprylylsilane (texture enhancer), C13-14 Isoparaffin (solvent), Acrylates Copolymer (film-forming agent), Polyhydroxystearic Acid (dispersing agent), Caprylyl Glycol (hydration), Polyacrylamide (film-forming agent), Ceteareth-20, Aluminum Stearate (texture enhancers), Laureth-7 (emulsifier), Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol (preservatives).

INCIDecoder

Of course, like all Paula’s Choice products, the inactive ingredient list is a cocktail of skin beneficial ingredients. It’s also handy that the primary function is provided beside every ingredient on their website.

Moisturizing – Glycerin, Dimethicone, Argan Kernel Oil, Phospholipids, Soybean Sterols, Sodium Gluconate.

Antioxidants – Resveratrol, Niacinamide Ascorbyl Glucoside, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopherol, Xanthophylls, Kiwi fruit Extract

Soothing – Licorice Root Extract, Bisabolol

Brightening – Licorice Root Extract, Niacinamide, Tetrapeptide-30

My Experience with Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30

FRAGRANCE: None.

APPLICATION: Applied in 2 separate layers to give the sunscreen a chance to adapt to my skin tone as best as possible. Feels a bit greasy while applying and definitely more emollient than the Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense. I also noticed pilling along my hairline while lightly massaging the sunscreen onto my skin.

FINISH: Very glowy, it looks like there are shimmer particles in the sunscreen. It sits similarly to the Resist Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense.

FEEL: Light, it has a tacky, slightly greasy finish. The feel sits between the PC Resist Super-Light Daily Wrinkle Defense and the DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer.

STINGS EYES? No.

WHITECAST / TINTED? The colour of the sunscreen is an off-white but this is not tinted. After initial application it looks pretty blended in as I can still see my skin’s undertone, but I do see a whisper of a cast. After 20 minutes, it looks more or less the same.

EXTRA SKIN BENEFITS? Simply that it sits comfortably on my dry skin type. Other than that, this sunscreen makes me look like a disco ball and the way it sits on my skin makes it quite unflattering for the texture on my face.

UNDER MAKEUP: On my dry skin, the moisturized finish of this sunscreen pairs well with whatever base makeup I use. It is not as grippy as the PC Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense, which oilier skin types may prefer.

Final Thoughts on Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30

Pros

  • At least a SPF30, as recommended by most skin experts.
  • Comfortable to apply the 2mg/cm2.
  • Like all Paula’s choice products, contains other nice beneficial ingredients.
  • Skin felt comfortably moisturized for most of the day.

Cons

  • The glow of the sunscreen is so shimmery, I feel like I look like a disco ball. I was able to diffuse some of the glow with a setting powder but the shine is quite strong and it does not make my skin look smoother.

Overall the Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30 is very comfortable to wear and I am impressed at how there is very little to no cast on my skin. Usually with all mineral sunscreens I can see a difference in the undertone, but this one blended out well enough that it could be worn on its own. Unfortunately the shimmer is too much for me and it makes me uncomfortable with how much texture it emphasizes.

WHERE TO BUY:
Paula’s Choice Website *

As always, I hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

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Another “Youtube made me buy it” moment! The Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 seems to be a popular tinted mineral sunscreen in the beautysphere, and I wanted to give it a try on my acne prone, normal to dry skin.

Information on Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

“A lightly tinted mineral-based formula that protects skin from sun damage and fortifies it with state-of-the-art antioxidants.

Prevents premature aging of skin
Boost skin’s environmental defenses
Silky texture leaves a soft matte finish
Use as the last step in your AM skincare routine”

– paulaschoice.com

Price: $33 USD
Amount: 60ml/2oz
Packaging:  Opaque blue plastic tube.
Water Resistant? No.

UV FILTERS:
Zinc Oxide 13% (UVB, UVAII and some UVAI)

Protection:
UVB: SPF 30
UVA: If U.S. regulations say UVA has to be 1/3rd of the UVB, it should be around a PPD of 10

INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), PEG-12 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), Lauroyl Lysine (skin-conditioning agent),Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Trihydroxystearin (texture-enhancing), Dimethicone Crosspolymer ( suspending agent), Resveratrol (antioxidants), Quercetin (antioxidants), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidants), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract (skin-soothing), Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract (antioxidant), Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract (astaxanthin/antioxidant), Hydrolyzed Corn Starch (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Polysorbate 80 (texture-enhancing), Hydrated Silica (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Triethoxycaprylylsilane (texture enhancer), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient texture enhancer), Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate (texture enhancer), Caprylyl Glycol (preservatives), Hexylene Glycol (preservatives), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservatives), Iron Oxide (CI77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Phenoxyethanol (preservatives).

INCIDecoder

In true Paula’s Choice fashion, the Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30’s inactive ingredient list is a cocktail of skin beneficial ingredients and I always appreciate the ingredients having their primary function beside them.

Only noticeable moisturizing ingredients are various -cones which make the base of the sunscreen.

Antioxidants Resveratrol, Quercetin, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, and plant extracts high in antioxidants.

Soothing ingredients Bisabolol and Willow Bark Extract.

Adenosine for wound-healing and aiding in barrier repair and protection.

My Experience with Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

FRAGRANCE: None.

APPLICATION: Applied in 2 separate layers to give the tint a chance to adapt to my skin tone as best as possible. It does not feel greasy at all, rather it feels like a light lotion. I experienced no pilling.

FINISH: Semi-matte but still skin-like, I notice my texture is a bit emphasized once it sets more.

FEEL: Light, sets pretty quickly and has a light tacky finish, not as tacky as the DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46.

STINGS EYES? No.

WHITECAST / TINTED? I find the tint to lean slightly pink. With separate layers it’s not very noticeable, but when I apply the sunscreen all in one go, the pink is more obvious. I have also used this sunscreen as a “topper” over an all-organic UV filter sunscreen for the tint, and with a very sheer layer I barely notice the pink undertone.

EXTRA SKIN BENEFITS? One main benefit I’ve noticed is that the light coverage does even out my skin tone. Other than that, I don’t find it does dry skin any favours, even if you’re well prepped prior. It makes me look dehydrated quickly and as a result makes me look a bit more aged. By end of day my skin feels uncomfortably dry.

UNDER MAKEUP: Like other all-mineral sunscreens I have tried, I find it grips onto product more and thus increases coverage. On days I feel like I can wear it on its own, my concealer and liquid blush sits really well on it and still blends easily. I notice when I set my face lightly with powder, the dry feeling increases quickly.

Final Thoughts on Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

Pros

  • At least a SPF30
  • Sets quickly and has a skin-like, non-greasy finish
  • Like all Paula’s choice products, contains other nice ingredients
  • Skin tone looked even

Cons

  • I don’t know how they can call this a moisturizer, it’s quite drying. Seems that it would work best for those of you with very oily skin that have never been concerned with the uncomfortable, tight feeling. Otherwise I’d recommend to moisturize prior to application for any skin type.
  • Even though it is a soft matte finish, I find my texture is still emphasized because of the way it sits on my skin, and it adds further to the dehydrated look I get.

In-between Feels

  • Tint – prefer the undertone in the DRMTLGY one but this is still passable when applied properly. For fairer skin tones you may notice it being a bit dark with generous application, darker skin tones may still see a cast.

Overall the Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 seems like a good tinted sunscreen for those with very oily skin types, and because the finish is so skin-like I can see it performing nicely under makeup. I will be giving this away to a family member with a more oily skin type because it is too drying for mine.

WHERE TO BUY:
Paula’s Choice Website *

As always, I hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

REVIEW: Cerave Skincare I Have Tried So Far!

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CeraVe is without a doubt, the most recommended drugstore brand. From western skinthusiasts, experts, and professionals when it comes to affordability and effectiveness. I’ve used multiple products from their skincare collection and have recommended it to my friends and family as well.

In today’s post I will be reviewing the the CeraVe products I have tried! The reason this isn’t a full blown brand review is because they have a total of 70 products. I have only tried 8 🙂 Clearly not enough of their products have been tested to give a proper opinion on their line.

VIDEO REVIEW

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjcp3D-9xSQ&w=560&h=315]

GENERAL CLAIMS ON ALL PRODUCTS

In 2005, CeraVe’s dermatologists developed a line of skincare products enriched with a blend of three essential ceramides (ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II), fatty acids, and other lipids to help repair and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.

…A revolutionary delivery system was developed and named MultiVesicular Emulsion Technology (MVE), which releases moisturizing ingredients, layer by layer, to help keep skin soft all day long.

…The unique combination of 3 essential ceramides in CeraVe (ceramides 1, 3, 6-II) help replenish skin’s existing ceramides, relieving dry skin, by reducing moisture loss, increasing hydration, and restoring the skin barrier.

– Cerave.ca

BRIEF EXPLANATION ON CERAMIDES

Disclosure: I am NOT an expert in anything. I am sharing what I have learned and am trying my best to describe it to you all in this blog post.

Cerave, if you haven’t guessed already, has a strong focus around skin-identical ingredients. Substances that are already found within your skin! Ceramides, fatty acids, cholesterol, phytosphingosine. They are oil lipid substances that are found in the waxy parts of our skin between the bricks of our Stratum Corneum. It is responsible for holding skin cells together and retaining moisture. Ceramides in particular make up 50% of this. Dehydrated, dry skin lack these substances. This is why products with ceramides tend to be recommended in order to replenish them back into the skin.

Ever since becoming more dry-skinned, ceramides have always been the key ingredient for what I look for in moisturizers. For a couple of years now, whatever moisturizer I used absolutely had to have ceramides in the formula, or else it was not worth buying. However, in learning more about ceramides in relation to this blog post, I have been left stumped. To REALLY summarize what I’ve learned, ceramides have shown to be effective for various skin conditions such as dry skin, Eczema, Psoriasis, and aging skin (with wrinkles) – in specific ratios. Majority of ceramide-containing products – CeraVe and my beloved Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Baume included – do NOT contain that ratio.

Check out the following posts that explain this way better than I can ever imagine to:

The Beauty Brains
Reddit Thread

Even though the CeraVe may not have the required ratio, tons of anecdotal evidence suggest their products still work for people, myself included. Overall, Your Mileage May Vary. CeraVe is very affordable in general, so there’s really no harm in picking up the tub to try it out. If you’re using a moisturizer that doesn’t have ceramides and it’s working great for you, it’s not the end of the world either.

For me, I find that ever since I switched over to using a moisturizer with a blend of humectants, emollients, and occlusives, my skin has felt very comfortable and moisturized throughout the day. This is part of the reason why I tend to say my skin is normal to dry lately rather than dehydrated and dry! If ceramides were out of the formula, who knows how my skin would behave, all I know now is that what I’m using is working for me.

Products marked with a * are PR Samples / gifts. All links provided below are affiliate links. If you use a link to make a purchase, I earn a small commission. Thank you so much if you decide to use them! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

My thoughts are honest, always *casts doe patronus*

REVIEW OF CERAVE PRODUCTS

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser *

INCIDecoder
Price: $14.99 USD
Amount: 12oz / 355ml
Where to Buy: Ulta

One of my favourite products from CeraVe, their Hydrating Cleanser is a creamy, cushiony feel cleanser that gently cleanses my skin and is non-foaming. However I noticed it stung my face in my first 3 months of 0.3% Adapalene. I’m thinking that it is due to my barrier being compromised during the retinization period, for now the experience is way more pleasant. The only con about this cleanser is that I don’t trust it to effectively remove makeup if I were to use it as my second cleanse in my Double Cleanse routine.

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum *

INCIDecoder
Price: $18.99 USD
Amount: 30ml / 1oz
Where to Buy: Ulta

One of their newer products, The Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a gel-cream formula with the addition of Panthenol, a moisturizing and soothing ingredient. I don’t find it contributes any more to my skin’s health than the other products with the exact same key ingredients. I can see oily-skinned peeps potentially liking this serum, since it can be used on its own, and it has Dimethicone as a more common occlusive for moisturizers catered to oily skin. Overall for me it’s okay, it may have more HA than CeraVe’s other products, but overall it isn’t super wow, especially considering the price of this for the amount.

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

INCIDecoder
Price: $18.99 USD
Amount: 453g / 16oz
Where to Buy: Ulta

One of the most recommended moisturizers of all time, and I have mixed feelings about it! Although it is supposed to be one of their heavier products, it can be spread lightly. I find it doesn’t instantly moisturize my skin and I feel drier than usual, so I always layer more than necessary. This was the first mistake on my part when I started using this moisturizer, for after an hour my skin felt greasy and my pores looked very exaggerated.

With a thin layer, it doesn’t instantly satisfy me, but throughout the day I do notice my skin feels more moisturized and comfortable, without feeling greasy or with enlarged pores. I sometimes find on application it actually stings my face, similar to what I experienced with the cleanser (without the retinization) and it makes me look red and discoloured. This is currently my boyfriend’s go-to face moisturizer and it works really well for him.

CeraVe Night Cream

INCIDecoder
Price: $18.49 USD
Amount: 1.7oz
Where to Buy: Ulta

I had high hopes for this one! It also contains Niacinamide and Peptides, so I was hoping for a new holy grail moisturizer with some more bells and whistles for preventative aging. Unfortunately this cream did not work out for me, I found I had to use a LOT of it to feel decently moisturized. Also, I noticed when I reached for this moisturizer, I would get a painful cyst. I know breakouts don’t work that fast, so I would have to retry the Night Cream to confirm, but I can’t help but associate bad breakouts with it! Also wasn’t a fan of the price for the amount – unfortunately there’s a premium for peptides in skincare. Truthfully I would’ve continued purchasing the CeraVe Night Cream if it worked for my skin the first time!

CeraVe PM Moisturizing Lotion

IMG_20180707_183542.jpg

INCIDecoder
Price: $15.99 USD
Amount: 3oz
Where to Buy: Ulta

Back in 2018 this was my go-to moisturizer and I repurchased it 3 times. It has the most pleasant light cream consistency (I’d say even gel-like), felt comfortable when layering with a hydrating toner/essence/lotion and a heavier sunscreen. I have not repurchased it since switching to a higher strength prescription, but I still recommend it. I know a handful of people complained about it stinging; Niacinamide is in the formulation, and I know a lot of people are sensitive to that ingredient in general. Perhaps because it is a lighter moisturizer, it may be sinking into the skin faster? It’s not something I can 100% confirm, but that may be happening. I actually repurchased this to try out with my new prescription strength, so I’ll eventually share my thoughts again about this moisturizer!

CeraVe Baby Healing Ointment

INCIDecoder
Price: $9.99 USD
Amount: 3oz
Where to Buy: Ulta

I forgot who first said this, but the CeraVe Baby Healing Ointment is like a jacked-up Vaseline because it includes the standard ingredients you find in CeraVe products and is an awesome product to have when your skin is feeling super dry! I mentioned in my Tried & True Tips post how using an occlusive layer is super helpful when relieving very dehydrated and dry skin. This ointment is slightly more pleasant to use – ~46% Petrolatum as opposed to 100%. I definitely reserve a full face of this at nighttime, and if I need it during the day, I mix a small amount with my moisturizer.

CeraVe Ultra-Light Lotion SPF 30 *

INCIDecoder
Price: $18.99 USD
Amount: 1.7oz
Where to Buy: Ulta
Reviewed: SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #5: CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

INCIDecoder
Price: $18.99 USD
Amount: 3oz
Where to Buy: Ulta
Reviewed: SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #5]: Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

FINAL THOUGHTS

In my experience with these products, CeraVe has some hits and misses. The big miss was their infamous Moisturizing Cream – somehow it works really well for my boyfriend, and my skin hates it! Overall, CeraVe was my reintroduction to drugstore skincare and it has made me appreciate what other brands have to offer! I think any of the CeraVe products are worth trying – the bells and whistles are there for key ingredients, minimal formulas, and very accessible to purchase!

I hope you found this review helpful and informative when considering what to try for yourself.

xo, M

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 Review

admin1 Comment

Product was sent to me for review purposes.

IMG_20190628_170434.jpg

ABOUT:

IMG_20190628_170447.jpg

“Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 provides UV protection while helping to restore the protective skin barrier. This lightweight, with a matte finish and non-greasy lotion, with 3 essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, provides all day hydration after just one use.”

ADDITIONAL CLAIMS:

  • For normal to oily skin
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Price: $17.99 CAD / USD
Amount: 50ml

UV FILTERS:

IMG_20190628_170452.jpg

Type: Chemical
Homosalate 10%
Octisalate 5%
Avobenzone 3%
Octocrylene 2.7%

Protection: UVA/UVB
Strength: SPF 30

INACTIVE INGREDIENTS:

IMG_20190628_170500.jpg

Aqua, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, SodiumAcryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Citric Acid, t-Butyl Alcohol, Ceramide NP, Phenoxyethanol, Ceramide AP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide EOP

CONSISTENCY: Light lotion


FRAGRANCE: No noticeable sent.

APPLICATION: Spreads easily and doesn’t feel greasy.

IMG_20190628_170651.jpg

FINISH: Not matte, but not overly shiny or greasy. Nice subtle glow compared to other sunscreens I’ve tried.

IMG_20190628_172149.jpg
FEEL: Light and surprisingly moisturizing for my normal-dry skin.

STINGS EYES? Another surprise, it does not!

WHITECAST / TINTED? No.

WATER RESISTANT? No.

SKIN BENEFITS?
I love Cerave for the ceramides and essential fatty acids, but I’m still surprised that this is able to moisturize my skin well! Probably because 1) The amount I use 2) It’s very lightweight.

UNDER MAKEUP:
I haven’t been wearing foundation lately, but this doesn’t have a very greasy finish, so I can see it sitting fine underneath makeup.

WHERE TO BUY:
Ulta
Shopper Drug Mart

PROS:

  • Light feel
  • Doesn’t sting my skin or eyes
  • A good drugstore SPF option
  • Able to add additional moisture to skin

IN BETWEEN FEELS:

  • SPF 30 – This isn’t bad, but I’m a SPF 50 kinda gal
  • On a bit of the pricier side for a drugstore SPF

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 knocks its sister sunscreen, the AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 out of the park! It is way more cosmetically elegant and enjoyable to use strictly because it doesn’t feel greasy and it doesn’t pill! This is a great additional product to their line and I recommend this to any skin type.

xo, M

[RELATED CONTENT]

SUNSCREEN SUNDAY:
SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #1: Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Sunscreen Sunday #2: CANMAKE Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ PA++++
SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #3: Bare Republic Tinted Mineral Face SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion
SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #4: Neostrata Defend Sheer Physical Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Matte-Finish Tinted Sunscreen PA++++

SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #3: Bare Republic Tinted Mineral Face SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion

admin4 Comments

IMG_20190402_104521.jpg


ABOUT:
IMG_20190402_104538.jpg

“Face the day protected! Sun and environmental stressors can affect the health of your skin year-round – so fight back with our lightweight and non-whitening, tinted mineral face susncreen. Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide protect physically, not chemically, providing broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

Antioxidant-rich oils and plant extract offer intense hydration and reparative benefits to help keep your skin looking its best, no matter the season.”

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0wTUtwx-vo&w=560&h=315]

IMG_20190402_104548.jpg

ADDITIONAL CLAIMS:

  • Paraben free
  • No chemical sunscreens
  • No synthetic fragrances
  • Cruelty Free
  • Non-GMO
  • Gluten-Free
  • TSA approved size
  • No worries


Price: $19.98 CAD
Amount: 50ml

UV FILTERS:

IMG_20190402_104557.jpg

Type: Mineral
Titanium Dioxide: 3.2%
Zinc Oxide: 1.7%

Protection: UVA/UVB
Strength: SPF 30

INGREDIENTS:

IMG_20190402_104605.jpgAdansonia Digitata Seed Oil*, Alcohol, Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil*, Algae Extract*, Allyl Heptanoate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dodecane, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract*, Gamma Decalactone, Gamma Octalactone, Gamma- Nonalactone, Glycerin*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Heliotropine, Hydrogen Dimethicone, Iron Oxides, Isopropyl Myristate, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Mica, Polyamide-5, Polysilicone-11, Propylene Carbonate, Raspberry Ketone, Silica, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Synthetic Wax, Triethyl Citrate, Vanillin *Certified Organic Ingredients

CONSISTENCY: Liquidy / oily AF

 

FRAGRANCE: Heavy vanilla scent that *eventually* disappears.

APPLICATION: Shake 15-30 seconds before applying. I use 64% of 1/4 tsp (will explain this in a future post). Spready easily.

 

FINISH: Instant finish is shiny and face feels oily. Waited ~20 minutes for it to dry down.
IMG_20190402_105010.jpg

FEEL: Light and matte. Drying.

STINGS EYES? No.

WHITECAST? No.

TINTED? Yes. Even though it’s tinted one colour, it IS universal because it’s undetectable on my skin. I don’t even think this will even out redness or cover a cast from another SPF.

WATER RESISTANT? Yes – 40 minutes.

SKIN BENEFITS?
You’d think that because this is oil based it would be moisturizing. But because alcohol is the 2nd ingredient on the list, it actually gets rid of the greasy look on your face.

UNDER MAKEUP:
If you wait the 20-30 minutes, it grips onto my It Cosmetics CC Cream really well and mattifies it.

WHERE TO BUY:
Well.ca
Amazon.ca
iHerb

PROS:

  • Actually a universal tint
  • Affordable, but moreso for Americans
  • No cast

CONS:

  • On application, when I was gliding the product, it still managed to attract dead skin on my hands, like I did a little exfoliation.
  • Have to wait 20-30 minutes for it to dry down
  • Alcohol too high on the inci list
  • Face LOOKS dry, makes my fine lines look more noticeable, dry patches
  • Unpleasant to use

IN BETWEEN FEELS:

  • Mattifies cc cream; can be good or bad depending on skin type. For me it’s bad :p

Bare Republic Tinted Mineral Face SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion was just okay. It’s great that this is a cruelty-free physical sunscreen with no cast whatsoever, but it’s very unpleasant to apply because of how liquidy/oily it is. For my dry skin, I don’t like it on my face at all because it makes my skin look dull. Perhaps in hotter, more humid weather it’ll perform better, but I’ll let oily-skinned peeps enjoy.

xo, M

[RELATED CONTENT]

SUNSCREEN SUNDAY:
SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #1: Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Sunscreen Sunday #2: CANMAKE Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ PA++++

SUNSCREEN WEEK:
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #1]: Make P:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #2]: Elta Md UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #3]: Boo Bamboo Natural Sunscreen Mini Spray SPF 30 (Regular and Baby & Kids)
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #4]: The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #5]: Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #6]: Riversol SPF 30 Lightweight Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
SUNSCREEN WEEK [DAY #7]: La Roche Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra-Fluid Lotion SPF 50

SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #6]: Riversol SPF 30 Lightweight Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

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Gifted

Price: $39 CAD
Amount: 60 ml
Protection: UVA/UVB
Strength: SPF 30

UV FILTERS:
Type: Physical
Zinc Oxide 10%
Titanium Dioxide 6%

INGREDIENTS:
IMG_20180717_150854.jpg

CONSISTENCY: Mousse.

 

 

APPLICATION: Easy to blend with no sign of pilling. I’ve seen suggestions on their website you don’t need to apply a lot to cover your face, which is the complete opposite of what I hear from dermatologists or skincare professionals…
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FINISH: Glow up.
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FEEL: Light.

STINGS EYES? No.

WHITECAST? I do notice the tint slightly, but over all it seems to mask the whitecast.

WATER RESISTANT? No.

SKIN BENEFITS?
I haven’t been using it enough to see, but so far it’s performing well as a cosmetically elegant physical sunscreen that’s slightly moisturizing.

UNDER MAKEUP:
Not as difficult to blend in as the Ordinary UV Mineral Filters, but not as easy as the other sunscreens I’ve reviewed thus far. Overall I think it’s good since I’m simple with my base anyways.

WHERE TO BUY:
Riversol’s Official Website

Riversol SPF 30 Lightweight Broad Spectrum Sunscreen * is one of the better physical sunscreens I have come across so far. What I like is that the tube is filled with product, no empty space to be found once you receive it. If I can’t get a hold of Elta Md at an affordable price I will definitely go back to this one.

By the way, I just got an email saying that if you purchase Riversol SPF 30 Sunscreen from their official website, you will get free shipping! It’s like a sign to try it, no? 😛

Thanks for sticking with me this far! One more to go!

xo, M

* DISCLAIMER, PR, AFFILIATES

SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #5]: Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

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ABOUT
“CeraVe® AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 is an ideal moisturizer for daily use, developed specifically for the face, which helps restore and maintain the skin’s natural protective barrier while providing protection against the sun’s damaging rays.

The ceramide-rich formula provides essential ingredients to maintain a healthy skin barrier and also contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which may help reduce redness due to dry skin. So, while CeraVe® AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 is protecting your skin from the sun, it’s also rebuilding and restoring your skin’s protective outer lipid layer.”

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Price: $17.49 CAD
Amount: 89 ml
Strength: SPF 30
UV FILTERS:
Type: Physical-Chemical Hybrid
Homosalate 10%
Meradimate 5%
Octinoxate 5%
Octocrylene 2%
Zinc Oxide 6.3%
INGREDIENTS:IMG_20180718_164441.jpg

CONSISTENCY: Light cream.


APPLICATION: Spreads nicely, takes time to blend and could pill up around the sides of your face.

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Notice the little white pills on the sides

FINISH
Slightly greasy after I massaged it in, but it goes away shortly on my dry skin.IMG_20180712_144904.jpg
FEEL: Light. Skin feels dry to the touch.
STINGS EYES? Yes. I feel it more near the end of the day rather than right after application.
WHITECAST? No.

WATER RESISTANT? No.
SKIN BENEFITS?
It is fairly moisturizing, although I don’t find it on par with the PM Moisturizer. My skin looks even tone when I use this, could possibly be from the Niacinamide low on the ingredients list.
UNDER MAKEUP:
My It Cosmetic CC Cream is applied easily with this underneath and it doesn’t seem to compromise the finish.
WHERE TO BUY:
Well.ca

This is one of the better drugstore sunscreens I have tried. It’s not my favourite product out of Cerave’s line, but it does serve its purpose. Nick uses this on a daily basis as a moisturizer. He pretty much has perfect skin, so he doesn’t have any problems with this other than it stings if he applied it after he’s freshly shaven. I only use it when I’m going to the gym and I don’t want to use a more expensive sunscreen just to wash it off in an hour. Definitely give this a try if you’re looking for a hybrid, *fairly* affordable moisturizing sunscreen!

xo, M

SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #4]: The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants

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ABOUT
“The Ordinary range of Mineral UV Filters formulas’ offer SPF protection along with antioxidant, hydration, and anti-irritant support.

The Mineral UV Filter formulas avoid the use of any nanoparticles. Instead, a refined dispersion of micronized ZnO and TiO2 in flexible, high-volatility, non-comedogenic silicones allows the formulations to remain extremely lightweight by optimizing the amount of the blocking agents. Our formulation uses mainly ZnO for its protective effects (because in addition to reflecting/refracting light, ZnO is actually also able to absorb UV rays without creating oxygen radicals) and the supporting TiO2 that it contains is only in rutile form (no anatase form of TiO2 is used at all since it’s an aggressive producer of free radicals).”

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Price: $9.70 CAD
Amount: 50ml / 1.7 fl Oz
Protection: Their Instagram comments said they only did UVB testing; Haven’t checked for updates on this.
Strength: SPF 30
UV FILTERS:
Type: Physical
Zinc Oxide 14.03%
Titanium Dioxide 5.44%
INGREDIENTS:

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CONSISTENCY: Thick cream.

APPLICATION
Difficult. Takes a while for it to spread evenly on the skin.

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FINISH: Matte – Satin on initial application, but then gets VERY glowy and stays tacky.

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FEEL:
On the heavier side compared to other sunscreens I’ve reviewed. I can tell it’s sitting on my face. My skin is also very tacky for a long time.
STINGS EYES? No.
WHITECAST? Yes.

WATER RESISTANT? No (although with the way it feels, I’m surprised it’s not).
SKIN BENEFITS?
Skin tone looks even, however my sebaceous filaments are more noticeable than usual.
UNDER MAKEUP:
I couldn’t blend and sheer out my It Cosmetics CC Cream at all. It’s like wherever you apply your makeup, it will stay. For those who wear fuller coverage and you want it to last a long time, look into this SPF. But you may be using a bit of foundation.
WHERE TO BUY:
The Ordinary

It is unfortunate to say, the Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants is not a hit for me. It’s not a pleasant formulation at all and I really don’t like using it. It’s okay around my eyes, but I don’t like the extra tugging I have to do to get an even base. I had too high of expectations for this one, and I’d rather return this and pay more for a more cosmetically elegant sunscreen.

xo, M

REVIEW: Coola Suncare Mineral Face SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint

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This summer I decided to splurge on one of Coola’s sunscreens. I have been eyeing this brand for the past couple of years, never wanting to spend the money on such an expensive facial SPF.

I opted for Coola’s Unscented Matte Tint because 1) the Rose Tint was sold out at the Detox Market, and 2) the Cucumber Matte Finish pilled on my hand as I swatched it, and showed a white cast with a thin application.

I’ve used this for about half the summer, so it’s time to tell you what I think of the product! Worth the splurge, or save your money?

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Summer Tips for the Acne Prone

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Summer is a mix of a blessing and a curse. Your face gets clearer with more vitamin D, yet the constant heat makes you sweat, and typically, the acne prone produce more oil that gets clogged into pores.

Fear not! I have a list of tried and true tips for you to enjoy your summer while minimizing some breakouts.

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