Tag Archives: Sunscreen Reviews

SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 Review

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SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 Review

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Today I’m presenting an essential product that has become a necessity, in fact a must in my CTM routine. The product I’m talking about is a sunscreen cream known as SpectraBan Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 [a product by STIEFEL]. Let me brief you up as to how I got to know about this product. My skin is supersensitive and often I suffer from eczema (a skin condition) during fluctuating weathers. I live in the middle-east, where the weathers conditions are from extreme summers and to chilly winter. During summers, even after sunset the temperatures are up to 39 -41 degrees. I did not realize that such weather conditions would affect me skin. My dermatologist suggested using this sunscreen along with other body lotions and hydrocortisone creams. He also insisted me to use this cream throughout the day. Believe me I had excellent results from this product. It was a complete life saver for me. Let’s get into the details of this product.

SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 Review

Product Claims:

• Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin ANTI-UVA & UVB – SPF 30, PA++
• Broad spectrum UV protection
• Double moisturizing factors
• Non-comedogenic
• Hypoallergenic
• Water resistant

Ingredients:

Packaging and Texture

This product is dispensed in a plastic tube packaging. Travel friendly size. Various sizes are available. The product is fragrance free. Spreads smoothly over the skin on application and absorbed into the skin in seconds. The texture is not thick enough like other creams and not too runny like lotions.

Cost: 260 /-INR for 30gms

My take on SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30:

I always begin with moisturizing my skin well, wait for few seconds for the moisturizer to seep in and then the dot my face,neck and other exposed areas with this sunscreen and gently massage it. I noticed it did not grease my skin at all and did not form a white cast over my skin that normally tends to happen with other sunscreen creams. My dermatologist instructed to go outdoors 20 minutes after application of sunscreen.

Also Read: 10 Best Sunscreens for Different Skin Types in India, Prices, Buy Online

The cream is so soft and smooth over the skin that most of the time that I skip the step of a moisturizer. I have also applied this sunscreen while I go for swimming, believe me I had no tan at all, maybe it really worked for my skin. I have also used this sunscreen below foundation and this did not grease for atleast good 2-3 hours outdoors, in spite of layering several products. But later it does turn out to be greasy depending on the quality of your foundation.
So this was my experience with this product, I hope you all try it and let me know how it worked for you all.

Pros:

  • Budget friendly
  • Water resistant (can be used while swimming)
  • Can be used on sensitive skin
  • Fragrance free
  • No skin irritations
  • Travel friendly
  • Available in various sizes

Cons:

  • Can’t find of any

Rating: 5/5

Would I recommend SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 ? Definitely Yes!!! For super sensitive skin it is a good product.

Editor’s Note: Wow, this sounds amazing Linda. Especially for swimmers, and so affordable. I will surely check this out.

Have you tried SpectraBan Sunscreen?

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen SPF 30 Review

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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen SPF 30 Review

Hi guys,

I am using this sunscreen from the past 2 weeks now, mostly for hands and legs as it’s a body mist sunscreen. Here are my thoughts..

Claims: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen SPF 30 provides powerful protection against sun damage while leaving a weightlessly invisible feeling on your skin. Formulated with clinically-proven Helioplex® Technology, it offers superior broad-spectrum protection from skin-aging UVA rays and skin-burning UVB rays.

Neutrogena is a non-greasy, oil free fast-absorbing and water resistant sunscreen that uses Dry-Touch Technology to provide an ultra-light, non-shiny finish. This weightless formula applies easily to even hard-to-reach areas and works at any angle.

MRP: Rs.675 for 141g (Buy HERE)

Ingredients:

It comes in this bottle with a spray nozzle, I have used spray sunscreens earlier and I thought it would be similar. I have used Avene and it was white liquid just in spray bottle. I expected this to be of the same consistency. But this is actually a watery spray.

Yes, you heard me right. It’s a watery spray just like a mist. Super easy to just spray on and blend. It is the most convenient sunscreen I have ever used. It is completely non greasy as it just like any face mist, perfect for all skin tones.

I love the soft powdery scent which lingers on for a few minutes. It is water resistant for upto 80 minutes and that’s an added bonus.

I use it on both my hands and legs. It is perfect to use for body as spray form is more convenient for body. SPF 30 sun protection might not be enough at times, and that is the only disadvantage it has. I wish they come up with SPF 50 formula in this same watery form soon.

I have no cons for this and nothing more to so, it is absolutely perfect and does what it claims, gives a weightless, clean feeling. Next time you go on a vacation and are searching for a good body sunscreen, look no further.

I highly recommend this!

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 3.75/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Have you tried any Spray Sunscreens?

Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60 Review

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Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60 Review

By Archana

Hi all,

Today, I am reviewing a sunscreen from the brand Nature’s Essence. They have a wide variety of products at very budget-friendly prices. All their products are made primarily with natural ingredients. This is possibly one of the cheapest sunscreens available in the market. Read on to know how the ‘Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60’ fares.

Products claims: SUNBAN is a moisturizing sun protection lotion which provides full spectrum protection to the skin from UV rays. The natural added extract protects the skin against suntan. Good for all skin types. Can be used on all skin types.

Key Ingredients: Aloevera juice, Turmeric extract, Basil Oil

Directions to use: Apply Sunban lotion on face, neck and other exposed parts of body before going out. Avoid contact with eye area.

Packaging: The sunscreen comes in a yellow squeezable tube packaging with a flip-open cap. Nothing fancy in the packaging but a basic functional one. Its convenient to be carried around in your handbag without any fear of leakage. But one thing though, the cap seems to be flimsy and it broke within few uses as you can see in the pics.

Texture and fragrance: The sunscreen is sandal-colored with a slightly thick and creamy consistency. It has a mild herbal fragrance which is not bothersome. The fragrance proves that it contain natural extracts unlike other sunscreens I have used which usually have a chemical smell.

My experience: I have always chosen sunscreens based on the SPF factor. But till now I have never heard of TPI factor. So I googled around a bit and found that TPI is Tan Protection Index. Basically SPF helps to protect the skin against UV rays, cancer and sun burns. Whereas TPI specifically helps to protect the skin from tanning. This was a new info to me.

So coming back to this sunscreen from Nature’s Essence, this has both SPF and TPI. It takes a little time to blend it in completely. Though it appears tinted, after applying there is no tint whatsoever and it gives a natural finish. Unlike other sunscreens, this doesn’t leave any whitish cast. I have oily-combination skin and I find it little heavy and greasy for use nowadays as summers have started. Within 3-4 hours, my face starts becoming oily. I think it might be more suitable during winters. Dry skin people can use it year around.

Now the strange thing that I have observed is, although it claims of TPI 60 and SPF 30, I am still getting tanned. I don’t know if it is just me or anyone else too felt it, but overtime of trying out different sunscreens, I have observed that those from higher end brands like Avene, Vichy, TBS, etc. or even mid-range brands like Neutrogena, Plum, Christine Valmy, etc even if they have lower SPF of 20, they seem to prevent tanning to a large extent, while those from budget brands, though they claim of higher SPFs, they fail to prevent much tanning. Am not sure about it, but I feel sunscreen is one product where the ones with completely natural ingredients might not really be effective. While we can opt for natural products in face washes, face packs, shampoos, etc., when it comes to sunscreens I don’t think they are much effective. Its just my observation. Please share your views and experiences with natural sunscreens in the comments below.

Pros:
* Doesn’t leave any whitish cast.
* Has TPI along with SPF .
* Contains goodness of natural ingredients like aloevera, turmeric and basil.
* Suitable for normal-dry skin.
* Very affordable.

Cons:
* Might not suit oily/combination skin.
* Not much effective in preventing tan.
* Complete ingredients list missing.

Price and quantity: Rs.95 for 60ml.

Rating: 3.7/5

Verdict: Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60 is a very budget-friendly sunscreen with natural ingredients. But the results are average and its not very effective in preventing tan. Maybe if you are spending most time indoors, you can try it. But skip it if you spend more time under sun or going on a vacation or beach holiday.

Editor’s Note: That’s a fabulous review Archana, from whatever little I have read, heard and interacted with dermatologists, they all say sunscreens are good for protection but they cannot prevent skin from tanning. I am not sure how TPI works but I haven’t heard of any full proof sunscreen which prevents absolute tanning when you are out in the harsh skin for a long time. I remember using the Avene SPF50 spray all over my body during the Beauty & The Blogger shoot and we were out in the super harsh summer sun from 11 to 3 and I get tanned super easily, the area of the skin within the clothes and the area exposed to sun went black and white literally, that tan took almost 8-9 months to go away completely! So to prevent tan, one has to be covered and protected all the time, sunscreen will only help in protecting and this one sounds good for winters or for dry skin.

Sorry for the long rant 😀

Have you tried the Nature’s Essence Sun Ban Sunscreen Lotion SPF-30 TPI-60?

Bioderma Photoderm MAX Mineral Compact SPF 50+ Review

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Bioderma Photoderm MAX Mineral Compact SPF 50+ Review

What the Company claims: 100% mineral and compact MAXimum photoprotection

For: Sensitive or sun-intolerant skin
Very fair skin with freckles
Skin allergic to chemical filters
Weakened skin, sensitive to UV rays (after a dermatological procedure)
Pigmentation problems

Benefits: Guarantees optimum UVA/UVB protection against the harmful effects of the sun (sunburn, etc.)
Combats premature cutaneous ageing and prevents the appearance of brown spots
Evens out the complexion and reduces blemishes for an immediate healthy glow effect
Soft, non-greasy, non-sticky texture, easy to apply. Powdery finish
Excellent tolerance.

Product + :
Case fit with a mirror and a sponge: CONVENIENT and COMPACT
SPF 50+/UVA 24
Fragrance-free
Paraben-free
Preservative-free
Resists water and perspiration
Photostable
Non-comedogenic
Hypoallergenic

The combination of mineral anti-UVA/anti-UVB screens in Photoderm MAX Compact offers both optimum protection against the harmful effects of the sun (sunburn, sun intolerance, etc.) and excellent skin tolerance.

Instructions: Several times a day – When exposed to the sun
Apply evenly and liberally before exposure (a smaller amount of product reduces the level of photoprotection).
Re-apply frequently, before and after swimming, rubbing and playing sports.

Ingredients:

MRP: Rs.2500/- for 10g

I have been using this mineral compact sunscreen since quite some time now. This one is in the shade ‘Teint Claire- Light Colour’. I have only seen the other shade ‘Gold’ in white packaging but I am not sure of the shade.

I love the bright yellow packaging, appropriate for a sunscreen! It comes in a compact form with mirror on one side and a white sponge in the compartment down.

It is in cream form and you need to take the product on the sponge and apply it liberously covering your entire face, remember the less product you use, the less sun protection you would be getting. It is very easy to apply and blend. It settles on the face in sometime and does not leave any greasiness. Also, a few sunscreens make me sweat a lot, this did not! If you have oily skin, you will need to powder it of course coz this is cream based.

The only problem is the shade, it is very light and has a pink/grey undertone, so I need to use my skin shade compact powder on top to balance and match the color. But using a compact works and it does not look stark white later one. It will even out your skin tone and redness and the compact will mattify and give some coverage. So the combination of this sunscreen and a compact powder can be a perfect everyday combination which is what I have been using every single day.

I love the fact that it is Fragrance-free, Paraben-free and Preservative-free, and also water and sweat proof. It gives a very high sun protection of SPF 50+ and also protects from UVA rays. It also protects from sun burn and tanning. I haven’t tanned ever since I am using it.

Overall I would say, I absolutely love it and recommend it. It is slightly pricey but then it will also last a long time since it is 10g. It is available online on Nykaa and Purplle. The only problem is the shade, a compact is required to match it to skin and oily skin will definitely need a powder to set it.

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money : 4/5
Availability: 3.75/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Have you tried any mineral compact sunscreen yet?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Avene Very High Protection SPF50+ Spray Review

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Avene Very High Protection SPF50+ Spray Review

What the Company claims: Ideal balance between pleasure and security – Fulfills all demands: Efficacy, quality, pleasure in use and reliability – Benefits from an exclusive combination of actives, “SunSitive Protection®”, a product of Pierre Fabre Group Research:

*A complementary and synergistic photoprotective active complex, guaranteeing minimum chemical filters in our formulas.

* Pre-tocopheryl, a photostable Vitamin E precursor, gives additional cell protection.

*Avène Thermal Spring Water with natural soothing and anti-irritating properties.

*Light and no greasy texture : invisible, non-oily texture for particularly pleasant application. – 98% protection in 4hrs – No white effect

Broad UVA and UVB protection

MRP: Rs.2050/- for 200ml

How to use it:

  1. 30 minutes before exposure, apply uniformly and in sufficient quantity
  2. Reapply frequently in case of prolonged exposure, and after swimming.
  3. Using this product should not encourage the user to prolong sun exposure.
  4. Avoid exposure between midday and 4pm (maximal sunshine)
  5. Avoid solar exposure for child between 0 and 3 years
  6. Use clothing protection

Ingredients:

A sunscreen in a spray bottle..I have tried the Lotus SPF50 Spray before and it was my HG. I loved it a lot..so I was expecting this to fare well too.

Coming to the packaging, I love the bright orange packaging..and the cap shuts tight..the spray is good enough..but takes a lot of sprays to cover one part of the body too.

It has a milky kind of texture and is quite runny..you cannot assume the qty you are using since they are just sprayed and you would never realise..if its the 1/4 th teaspoon rule of sunscreen for face and neck each..and 1/2 teaspoon per arm, coz you just spray and blend.

Also, it is not completely light and does give a shiny look to the face..and leaves a whitish cast too. Needs lot of powdering. I mostly use it for arms and legs..and very rarely at times for face.

The main test of it was when I went for the Beauty and The Blogger show. I was carrying this with me..and the previous day after seeing the shoot in the sun and getting burned, the next day I made sure I went to my room especially to apply sunscreen on my arms and legs. I used it all over my hands and legs, could’nt use it on the face as the makeup was done..and somehow I forgot my neck :whyy: :pullshair:

I was out in the scorching sun from 11 to 3-3.30 directly under the sun with no protection whatsoever and we were literally burning all over. My hands and legs got 2 shades darker but my neck got burnt badly and it got 4-5 shades darker! So, thankfully, even though I did not reapply and do not know if I covered each and every area well with enough sunscreen, my hands and legs were somewhat saved coz of this ! I get tanned very very easily..and I have been cursing myself a lot for forgetting my neck 🙁 Still do and would do so for months, till the tan goes away completely..looks difficult :/

Thats one spray qty

I do like the fact that is has broad UVA and UVB protection and offers SPF50+ though..not that we need it regularly..but times as such, we definitely do!

Pros:

1. Did not clog pores or sweat me out.

2. Has thermal spring water and beneficial sunscreen actives.

3. SPF50+

4. Helped my skin from getting burned or severely tanned.

5. Nice bright packaging and cap shuts tight.

6. Claims to give very high protection against the sun.

Cons:

1. Not very travel friendly..a little bulky and I do not see a smaller version of it.

2. Does give some shine..and a whitish cast.

3. Very expensive!

Overall, I would say, if you are someone who stays out in the sun for a long time and need very high protection or you get tanned easily like me, this is the only savior! Definitely required for us! But if you have oily skin or do not stay out much in the sun anyways, you can do with your normal sunscreen and skip this.

It also comes in emulsion and cream form..I have not tried those. But considering the very high protection calimed and a savior against tanning, I would say try those too and go for either one whichever you are comfortable with.

Rating:

Quality: 3.75/5
Value for money: 3.5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 3.75/5

Would I buy it again: Maybe..not very sure considering the heavy price tag!

Have you tried Avene Very High Protection Spray SPF50+ ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review