There is a memorable saying that goes: “Using a foundation with SPF in it instead of wearing sunblock, is like using an umbrella with holes to keep out the rain.”
Makeup does not provide enough coverage. Day lotions with SPF 20 do not provide enough coverage. You need the best broad spectrum SPF for your face this Summer.
I like to say ‘if you aren’t wearing a broad spectrum SPF 30+ every day, you may as well throw away all of your skincare products.’ Why waste your money on the latest eye cream when you are exposing your skin to harmful rays that reverse all the hard work those products are doing for you? I know, it seems like that one more step…and historically, I agree, face SPF was kind of the worst. Thick, sticky, grainy and wore terribly under makeup.
But not anymore, Friends! The below five broad spectrum SPFs all wear beautifully, are light-weight, and do a wonderful job protecting that gorgeous face.
First up – the AlumierMD Clear Shield Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 42
Ooooh this is good stuff, friends! It’s a lightweight, 100% physical broad-spectrum facial sunscreen that I love because it also contains some bonus skincare ingredients! It contains my true love, hyaluronic acid, making your skin smoother and plumper. It also has niacinamide – known as vitamin B3. This helps increase your protective lipid barrier, boosts hydration, and calms redness while brightening skin. This product is fabulous!
Next, the luxe Shiseido’s Future Solution LX Universal Defense broad spectrum SPF 50+ cream ($130)
This is a truly luxurious multi-tasking protective cream that defends skin against modern day aggressors (UV rays, pollution, dryness) while reducing the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots and uneven skin tone. I love the texture – silky and quick to absorb, it feels like such a treat to apply to the skin. It is water-resistant up to 40 minutes, so it is perfect for those days at the lake…or in your bathtub, pretending you are at the lake.
Next up, the SPF I most recommend…and buy people as birthday presents (oh, they’ll thank me years from now!). The SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 ($48USD)
Now, I’ve expressed my love of SkinCeuticals recently and included this product in my SkinCeuticals love letter (you can read here), but I am an absolute advocate of the brand and think this SPF is truly a great. This is a universally tinted fluid sunscreen made with 100% mineral filters that provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. It goes on smoothly with very very little grit. It wears phenomenally well all day under a full face of makeup and I have zero complaints about it.
Next – this adorable, purse-sized SPF top up from Supergoop! – the Defense Refresh Setting Mist with Rosemary Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
I think the SuperGoop! Setting Mist with Rosemary might have been a limited release, but the above link will take you to one with Peppermint…which sounds lovely, too.
Why I like this spray is because when you are out and about (or sheltering and sitting outside), this is the perfect top up. Upper lip sweat wearing off your SPF? Mist a bit of this to cover you.
I love this because you can mist your face, your chest, your hairline…anywhere that needs a little broad spectrum midday touch-up. SuperGoop! is an awesome brand I wish was easier to find in Canada, but you can find some of their products at Sephora or on Amazon.
And finally, another great option for touch-ups, or for those that don’t wear foundation and want just a hint of radiant coverage.
The Bioderma Photoderm Compact SPF 50+ ($29.50)
I love the idea of a compact with SPF! So easy to bring along for touch-ups throughout your day. The Bioderma Photoderm compact is another multi-tasker – it reduces free radicals and collagen-damaging enzymes while minimizing the signs of photoaging. Yes please!
Photoderm Mineral Compact SPF 50+ can be applied several times a day – 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every 2 hours. It is incredibly lightweight, doesn’t feel thick or heavy on my face and leaves a lovely, natural glow.
What are your favourite broad spectrum SPF products? Write them in the comments below.
Follow me on @immfab to see the latest product releases and fun make-up looks.
M FabNoHolesInMyUmbrella
