HE Sun Block | Audrey Dao

Bare Escenturals BareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen Review

By Audrey Dao, on May 11th, 2009,

Bare Escenturals bareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen ($28)

What It Is: A unique oil-free, preservative-free natural mineral sunscreen in powder form for the face and body that comes in a portable, leak-proof brush.

The Breakthrough: Micronized Titanium Dioxide mineral physically shields against UVA/UVB rays to help prevent premature skin aging and sun damage. Also infused with healthy vitamins, Aloe Vera Extract and antioxidants to nourish and soothe sun-exposed skin.

Why You Need It: The weightless, breathable formula is non-greasy and won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. Increases sun protection when used under or over your bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation.

My Thoughts:

The only thing I liked about this was it was a quick way to apply sunscreen and a mineral powder. The reason I didn’t like BareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen was because it was too chalky and none of the shades matched my skin tone. I also felt it eccentuated the dry patches of skin. Not only was it difficult to get the product onto the brush, but it was difficult to tell if any was being applied to my face. I won’t be repurchasing BareMinerals SPF 30 Natural Sunscreen.

Edit: I decided to give this another try and now I am quite fond of it. Turns out, the color I got did not work with my skintone. None of the shades worked with my skintone. Now that the medium shade works for me, it has worked wonders and has blended so well with my makeup.

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 55 Review

By Audrey Dao, on March 23rd, 2009,

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 55 ($38) This smooth and highly nourishing sunscreen lotion for the face and body provides ultimate protection from UVA and UVB reays with SPF 55. With superior antioxidant and retexturizing agent, it also protects against sun-induced premature signs of aging. Dual Sun Protection System: Combines external defense against UVA and UVB rays and internal strength by hydrating, retexturizing, and preventing oxidation and cell damage. Lotion glides on evenly without any stickiness or white residue. Perspiration-resistant and sandproof. PABA-free.

My Thoughts:

I use this as a face sunblock (even though it’s for face and body). It dries relatively quick compared to other sunblocks, and doesn’t leave your face greasy, oily. It’s super light and matte. The most important thing about this sunblock, besides the SPF 55, it never caused any breakouts. It is expensive, but I rather bite the bullet than have to deal with greasy, oily sunblock.