Sunscreen is paramount to healthy, intact-looking skin. It’s a must-do, taking the final step in my morning skincare ritual. Overexposure to UV radiation is fraught with oxidative stress, discoloration, dark spots, sagginess and fine lines. This tends to atrophy the skin barrier function and speed up premature aging. The worst is skin cancer. I prefer sun cream to makeup on a daily basis, despite the majority of the foundations being infused with UV-blocking benefits, at least SPF 15. My skin is a type of sensitive and acne-prone so I just want to liberate pores as much as possible.
There are countless sun care products in the market with a variety of formulations geared toward different skin types. They even become more cosmetically elegant. My fanatical self has a zeal for hunting them down one by one, whether they are real deals or not. In this post, I’m gonna show you my review of The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++.
1. Infused with Chemical Filters and Skin Replenishing Ingredients, Some Are Skin Irritants
The product (old name: Skin Defence Multi-Protection Essence SPF 50 PA++++) is cruelty-free and vegan. It claims to impart a vigorous shield against the perils of the environment for everyday wearing, like UV rays, the lack of humidity and free radicals. The signature ingredient is Red Algae or Dulse, derived from Palmaria palmata, which is known as a sovereign skin booster from the ocean. It’s no longer so new to the beauty realm. Jam-packed with peptides, carotenoids, fatty acids and sulfated polysaccharides (carrageenan) as bioactive compounds.
Renowned for its age-defying, hydrating, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-allergic properties in skincare. Red Algae Extract helps revitalize damaged skin and retard oxidative stress as well as improve skin’s moisture reservoir and smooth out imperfections. It’s beneficial for delicate, dry and mature skin types. Aside from that, this skin-loving ingredient also works as a thickening agent to result in a silky texture and increase the fluid’s spreadability.
In terms of the active filters, the sunscreen is chemically infused with two UV absorbers. The first one is Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate or Octyl Methoxycinnamate). It’s the only UVB-absorbing agent to prevent sunburn. I’m pretty sure that we have heard a lot about the downsides of chemical UV filters. You can check them out in 5 things you must know before wearing sun cream. Octinoxate is considered a moderately hazardous ingredient that possibly causes allergies to the skin.
According to a 2008 article in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Octinoxate is not photostable, its UV-absorbing ability tends to degrade when exposed to sunlight. That even deteriorates the efficacy of the product and takes a toll on the skin, like hyperpigmentation or speeding up aging. Also, Octinoxate is quickly absorbed, penetrating deep into the skin. Many studies indicate that it’s possibly detrimental to the endocrine system, which is essential to maintain the hormonal balance.
Exposure to Octinoxate is susceptible to hormonal disruption. Octinoxate has been shown to accelerate the growth of estrogen production in cells, which is linked to breast cancer. Paired with Octinoxate, another UV active is Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone) to absorb UVA rays as a culprit of premature aging and skin cancer. Like Octinoxate, Avobenzone is also fast absorbed and categorized as a hormone disruptor with a lack of photostability.
Chemical filters are often combined with inactive ingredients such as photostabilizers to increase their effectiveness in sunlight. However, these photostabilizers can also contribute to skin irritation. The formula of this product includes the common photostabilizer Octocrylene, which has been known to cause allergic reactions the development of free radicals.
Furthermore, the product includes denatured alcohol as an antifoaming agent, an antimicrobial agent, a solvent and especially, an astringent. It helps draw the tissues in the skin together, shrink the pores and leave a quick-dry finish. Otherwise, for long-term use, Alcohol Denat. is more likely to be drying and sensitizing to the skin. It can trigger the erosion of the skin’s outermost layer, enfeebling the barrier function.
There are many other chemical compounds. Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Cetearyl Glucoside and Carbomer provide thickening, texture-enhancing, emulsifying, emulsion stabilizing, film-forming and viscosity regulating effects. Considered generally safe, they tend to create velvety, homogenous and easy-to-diffuse consistency.
Sodium Hydroxide is a pH adjuster or buffer, which helps balance the pH of the product. However, it’s important to note that Sodium Hydroxide is a highly alkaline ingredient and should be used in small amounts.
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Tocopherol, the derivatives of vitamins C and E, work as antioxidants and skin protectants. Both prevent the darkening effect of UV damage, but also enhance collagen synthesis. They are also used as preservatives with anti-aging properties. Some synthetic preservatives are Chlorphenesin and Phenoxyethanol to keep microorganisms from spoiling the product.
Last but not least, the product does contain fragrances, such as Linalool, Limonene and Citronellol. They are known as skin irritants.
2. Very Lightweight and Blendable Consistency – but Weak Protective Barrier
Please don’t get a long face when going through that heap of ingredients. Just make sure that we are able to get a good understanding of the product. To begin with, the sunscreen has a pretty watery consistency with a milky white color and low viscosity. When diffused all over my face, it feels extremely lightweight without giving off an unflattering white cast.
I’m not surprised about this since it’s crystal clear that the product is a chemical sunscreen. Unlike sunblocks with physical (mineral) filters, the chemical ones are more cosmetically elegant, laying a thin texture and spreading evenly. But, that makes them easily penetrate the skin and irritate.
The product brings about cooling and at the same time, tingly sensations. However, that seems to shortly happen. The fluid isn’t runny at all. It’s easy to diffuse all over my face and swiftly melts into my skin. You may find it a little bit tacky in the first few seconds. Later, the product is genuinely hydrating and refreshing. It leaves a clean, smooth-looking complexion.
The consistency results in a transparent finish with luminosity, neither overwhelming sheen nor greasiness. The Multi-Protection Lotion doesn’t give any makeup effects, like blurring imperfections or brightening up the skin tone. Literally, makeup-free all day long.
My skin is a type of combination, prone to dry and even, sensitive, usually getting blemishes and redness due to stress, weather changes and menstruation. Well, I guess there is a ton of reasons that nasty zits sneak up on the skin. The sunscreen imparts a very feather-light texture, then, it’s less likely to aggravate the congestion.
The product claims to be non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. This is allegedly the go-to for oily, acne-prone skin. However, we can’t be totally sure about this, whether your skin will suffer from allergic breakouts because of some particular ingredients or not. Anyway, I think the sunscreen might be ideal in the hot, warm weather, like summer to avoid increasing shine and oily traces.
The emollient property is indeed nice, but I feel sorry that it’s not powerful enough to keep my skin nourished throughout the day. I tried skipping my moisturizer before sunscreen. After going outdoors, my skin looked exerted, it ended up being dull and flaking with dry patches and creasing on the forehead, chin and under-eye areas. Thus, to get the best of both worlds, apply moisturizing cream before the sunscreen is what I swear by. In addition, piling serum beforehand helps provide ultimate replenishment during the entire day.
Ok, it’s time for my verdict. Most skin types can give it a go. If your skin is a type of very dry, you absolutely need to fulfill your skincare routine prior to sun protection. The product alone seems not able to hydrate the skin for the whole day and it provides a pretty poor protective barrier against external aggressors.
Speaking of sensitive skin, the product claims that it’s suitable for delicate ones. I’m like “Are you sure?” – Well, That sounds skeptical to me. Obviously, the formula contains synthetic fragrances (Parfum, Linalool, Limonene and Citronellol), all of which have been put on “the blacklist,” notorious for aggravating sensitive skin. Likewise, some are considered moderate hazard ingredients, like Alcohol Denat. So confusing!
It’s always a good idea to test a new product on a small area of skin, such as the jawline, to see how your skin reacts. If you do decide to use the product, make sure to use it in moderation. However, if you have very sensitive skin that is prone to redness, inflammation, and flare-ups, such as with dermatitis, psoriasis, or rosacea, it’s probably best to avoid it. On the other hand, mature skin can give it a try as well.
I would highly recommend switching to mineral sunscreens as they are a better option for all skin types. I must admit that I might be a bit biased, as I have always been a fan of physical sunscreens. They contain Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum sun protection. These ingredients are safe and photostable, sitting on the skin’s surface to effectively block UV rays.
3. A Sturdy, Clean Packaging – Quite Affordable
Housed in a flat, squeeze plastic soft tube (40 ml), which looks clean and tough. Designed to withstand physical damage. The small, pointed mouth of the tube is sealed tightly with a large cap, so you don’t have to worry about debris, bacteria, or pollution getting inside and the fluid can’t be spilled out. Plus, the tube is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for on-the-go use. At just £17.00, I think it’s a really affordable option. If you want to learn more about the product’s description and ingredients, you can find all the information you need on the back of the cardboard box or the table below.
I’m so glad you took the time to read my review of The Body Shop – Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion SPF 50+ PA++++. I hope you found it helpful and informative. If you have any questions or ideas to share, please feel free to let me know. I’m always here to listen and help out. Thanks for joining me, and have a fantastic day! And remember, stay beautiful inside and out!
Might Not Come Back to It
I like its lightweight, non-greasy and fast-absorbing consistency on a daily basis. However, neither the sun protection nor the moisture-protective barrier is as good as I expected from those potent ingredients. I just can’t stand the chemical UV filters and some other skin irritants.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Non-greasy
- Mildly hydrating
- Tough packaging
- Affordable
Cons
- Chemical UV filters
- Not longwear
- Vulnerable to external factors
- Quite irritating
Thank you! Actually a good review, with more information than what I’ve found on the web. Would look forward to more Body Shop reviews, I buy there all the time :-)
Thank you so much for letting me know your thoughts on my review. This is just my personal experience. Some products don’t work for me but they do for others. Body Shop is really a great brand with an arsenal of wonderful skincare products. Hope you’ll find more fun things on my blog. Have a nice day!
Hi! I didn’t have any skin problem with the body shop sunscreen. And i’m usually extremely picky about the texture of sunscreen. This sunscreen is the only one I can stand.
Too bad to know that it is actually not blocking the sunrays
Wow! That’s so awesome. I’m so happy since it works like a charm for your skin. Anyway, our experiences can vary for different skin types. My review just bases on my personal experience. My skin is quite sensitive so I need to swap in more gentle sunscreens. Anyway, thank you so much for sharing your thought with me! I really appreciate that.
great review!
Thank you so much! Hope you find it helpful enough.
hello…I am happy with your quick responses… plz also guide me…. My problem is that i cannot use make up like foundations etc. i always only apply sun block or sunscreen. For this reason i search only those sun block or sun screen which has some whitening texture for whole day. Neutrogena sunscreen spf 30 was best but that is not available anymore. That gave my face with fair and glowing look for whole day. i was applying only a lipstick with that product. My color is fair and skin is dry. Please recommend me this one or any other sunscreen having white look and glow on my face.
It’s my pleasure to answer your question. I’m glad that we have the same habit. Because of my sensitive and congestion-prone skin, I also frequently wear sunscreen rather than foundations. And, put lipstick on when going for work. Based on your description, it seems quite similar to some of products that I have used, like sunscreens from Korean brands.
Korean sunscreens are mostly designed to give brightening and glowing effects without causing a thick, white cast. For example, IOPE UV Shield Sun Protector SPF50+PA+++, which brightens up skin tone with a luminous finish. But, it does not provide moisturizing properties. you need to apply your toner, serum and moisturizing cream beforehand to ultimately keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.
In addition, there is History of Whoo Wrinkle Sun Cream 50+ PA+++ and Sulwhasoo Hydro-aid Moisturizing Soothing UV Protection Cream SPF 50+ PA+++. I have recently used some samples of these two. They are high-quality sunscreens with skincare elements. They tend to naturally leave a vibrant, luminous complexion.
If you don’t like Korean beauty products, you can try Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream SPF 30 or Juice Beauty tinted mineral moisturizer SPF 30. These two work as tinted moisturizers to mimic the foundation with the infusion of good botanicals and mineral broad-spectrum sun protection for everyday wearing. You can choose your suitable shade and they both give a radiant finish with pretty thick, creamy consistency.
Otherwise, if you don’t want it to be tinted, you can pick the color Sheer of Juice Beauty tinted mineral moisturizer SPF 3o. It literally delivers whitening and gleaming effects on skin. Even though many suncare products claim to contain moisturizing properties, it’s still necessary to apply moisturizer before sunscreen. Thank you so much for sharing your thought with me. I really hope my suggestions can be helpful for you.
I’m thinking of getting this for my husband who has to wear factor 50 as he has a history of skin cancer. The problem he has with other suncreams on his face, is that they tend to run into his eyes if he gets hot and sweaty which irritates his eyes. Do you think this body shop one would be worth a try? Many thanks
Above all, I’m really thankful for reaching out to me with this big question. In the past, when I used the product, it did give quite irritating sensation when it got into my eyes. And, your husband used to suffer from skin cancer, I recommend him to choose sunscreens with mineral filters, including Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, for broad-spectrum sun protection. They are gentler and more protective to the skin than the chemical ones.
The body shop sunscreen is a type of chemical, which is more likely to aggravate the skin with low photo-stability. It means that the chemical sunscreen tends to break down in terms of its ability to absorb the UV rays, when exposed to sunlight. That can put your husband’s skin in danger. Not to mention that the product does contain other skin irritants. Then, for your husband’s safety, in addition to mineral sunscreen, he can wear sun protective clothing when heading outdoors and avoid being under sunlight so long. Thank you so much for your concern! I really hope you will find better choices for your husband’s well-being.
The body shop sunscream is not good. After applying this product every time my eyes start burning and irretation.i am very dissapointed after buying such a expensive sunscream i will not recommend this product to my enemy also.
I’m really disappointed that the product didn’t get you good experience. I think that could be due to some irritants in the formula. I also give up on it because they possibly cause bad effects to skin at some points. You should stop using it if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Thank you so much for sharing your thought with me. This really helps me out a lot.