little white truths

This is one of those products that I've used for ages, it's just that I'm only coming to review it now. Also, this tube was given to me and I hadn't used this version of the sunscreen ever since the SPF 50+ one was released - purely because if you're going to wear sunscreen, you may as well reach for the big guns, yes?

But I do like this product and while I prefer the SPF 50+ version because I can't tell the difference between them in practice, I've heard some people say that this one sits better under and over makeup so it's worth trying both to see which one you prefer.

• A #1 best-seller since it launched, this luxe facial sunscreen is lightweight, non-greasy, ultra hydrating and is a favourite for SPF protection under makeup
• Provides broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays in a hydrating matte finish cream
• Containing SPF 30 with hyaluronic acid, pomegranate extract and vitamin e in a non-oily and non-whitening formula, this weightless SPF formula acts as the perfect makeup base while preventing premature ageing caused by the damaging effects of the sun
• RRP $15 AUD for 30ml and $38 for 100ml

The SPF 30+ version of the sunscreen comes in a white tube and a white box, while the SPF 50+ version comes in black packaging.

If you'd like to see my review of the SPF 50+, that review is here.

Do note that my reviews of both products will be quite similar because, as mentioned above, I can't tell the difference between them once they're on the skin.

Verdict

While I've given the SPF 50+ version of this sunscreen an HG tag, I'm not giving this one the same status because I would reach for the stronger protection over this on any given day. But before the stronger version was released, this SPF 30+ sunscreen would definitely have been my HG product in the facial sunscreen category.

If you haven't tried these sunscreens, I urge you to grab a sample because there's nothing else I've found on the market that's this good and doesn't cost too much.

The product is a thick, white cream that spreads and absorbs well. It smells a little of sunscreen but not in an offensive way and it vanishes into your skin beautifully.

If I had to find differences between this and the SPF 50+, the latter is pink-tinted, smells less and is a touch more matte on the skin. But really I can't see much difference between them in terms of how they look, feel and wear, and I can't see any difference in terms of which one is better under or over makeup: for me they do the same thing.

Best thing is, this product doesn't give you 'sunscreen ghost' face or leave behind a greasy residue. Somehow it manages to hydrate my dry skin and protect it in the process, and it gives the perfect non-oily base for makeup application.

Better still, it's one of those rare facial sunscreens that you can apply over makeup throughout the day without disturbing what's underneath. Most facial sunscreens 'dissolve' or lift any makeup I'm wearing and leave my skin looking greasy. This one doesn't. Instead you can pat it over your makeup to keep your skin protected, and if you're careful, your makeup should still look just as good as it did before application.

Also, it doesn't clog pores or break me out - and if the reviews on the Mecca website are anything to go by, most people would say the same thing. So if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, it's worth testing this to see if it works for you where other sunscreens have failed.

All in all, this is a fantastic product and I recommend it. Not a day goes by - summer or winter - when I don't use this or the SPF 50+ both under and over makeup, so that's saying something.

Love.