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If I could go back in time, there are a few things I’d like to tell my 20-year-old self. One of them? Wear sunscreen. Every. Day. Daily sunscreen not only helps avoid burns but it also protects against harmful UV rays that can speed up the signs of aging (no thanks!).
The Curator spoke with Dr. Renita Ahluwalia with the Canadian Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Centre about the importance of sunscreen – even in the winter. She says wearing sunscreen is the easiest way to prevent damage caused by UV rays. It should be so ingrained in your skincare routine that you should feel naked without it.
I don’t like to wear a lot of makeup so a tinted SPF helps protect my skin and gives me a boost of colour. I snapped up some of the go-to tinted sunscreens and put them to the test.
Also, one thing to note: I am trying all these products as someone with a fair complexion. Most of these products come in one universal shade but it may vary from person to person. We’d love to hear your feedback if there’s a brand you love with more than one shade option.
Best Overall
The promise: Blends naturally leaving a healthy glow and is boosted with Hyaluronic Acid to moisturize, vitamin E and Niacinamide to help calm skin.
Feel: Lightweight cream.
UV Protection: SPF 46, UVA & UVB
Active Ingredients: 9% Zinc Oxide, 7.5% Octinoxate
Size: 1.7oz (50ml)
How did it work for me? I love the lightweight cream consistency and the level of protection. It quickly became my go-to every morning.
Best Glow
The promise: Hydrating sunscreen that gives an instant glow and also works well as a makeup primer.
Feel: Lightweight cream.
UV Protection: SPF 40, UVA & UVB
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%
Size: 1.7oz (50ml)
How did it work for me? I like how smoothly it goes onto my skin and the tinted glow it leaves behind. It isn’t my daily go-to; I save it for days when I’m feeling blah and need an extra pop of colour and glow. But if you like that daily glow look, then this is for you.
Best for sensitive skin
The promise: Universal shade for all skin types and recommended by 90,000 dermatologists worldwide.
Feel: Watery consistency (must shake the container well before use).
UV Protection: SPF 50, UVA & UVB
Active Ingredients: 11% Titanium dioxide
Size: 1.7oz (50ml)
How did it work for me? I don’t love the runnier consistency, but that’s just a texture preference on my end. And sometimes I forget to shake it. It has a slight oily feel to it when you first apply. My face didn’t look greasy, but to the touch, it was more slippery than with the other formulas.
Highest UV Protection
The promise: High protection for all skin types
Feel: Watery consistency (must shake the container well before use).
UV Protection: SPF 60, UVA & UVB
Active Ingredients: 14.8% Titanium dioxide
Size: 45ml
How did it work for me? This also has a very runny consistency, but as soon as it’s applied to the skin, it’s quickly absorbed and almost leaves a matte feeling. I like the way it feels on my skin, and if I’m going to be outside for long periods of time in the sun, this is what I’m reaching for.
New to the mix…
The promise: Dermatologists for sensitive skin and is non-irritating, hypoallergenic and free of fragrance, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Feel: Thicker cream consistency
UV Protection: SPF 35, UVA & UVB
Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 24%
Size: 50ml
How did it work for me? This sunscreen is certainly the thickest in consistency among the ones I’ve tested. On hot summer days, it would probably be too rich for my skin. But during the winter or when my skin feels drier, this would be a solid option. I like the tint and can see a glow to my skin without too much shine. With SPF 35, it falls on the lower end for me during the peak summer months.
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