Bonjour everyone,
My last article dealt with my sunscreen requirements (click here), and it only fits to review a sunscreen afterward.
In my last article, I have explained that the UVA factors increased with the SPF in the EU. I believe it is the reason why so many European sunscreens are so unpleasant to wear for daily use. Their overall protection against UVA and UVB are on top but it is a struggle to apply them daily.
The Clairial creme SPF50+ has a nice finish with high protection against UVA and UVB making it suitable for daily use.
Sunscreen filters:
The most critical part of sunscreen is, of course, the sunscreen filters. This one contains outstanding filters. I list them in order of appearance in the formula:
Uvinul A plus (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate)
Octinoxate (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate)
Tinosorb S (Bisethylhexylloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl triazine)
Uvinul T150 (ethylhexyl triazone)
Ensulizole (phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid)
Uvinul A plus and tinosorb S ensure the UVA protection. Both of them filter the full UVA spectrum.
Octinoxate, tinosorb S, uvinul T150 and ensulizole provide the UVB protection.
In EU there is no mention of the UVA protection factor, but it has to be one-third of the SPF or above. This sunscreen has a UVA factor protection of a minimum of 20, but it is likely much higher as SVR claims it.
Antioxidants:
This formula contains interesting antioxidants.
Ethylhexyl ferulate (a derivative of ferric acid), beta-carotene and two forms of vitamin E (tocopherol and tocopheryl acetate). It is always nice to have extra antioxidants in sunscreens.
Protection against visible light:
This formula supposedly protects the skin against the effects of blue and violet lights thanks to the beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a natural pigment found in the carrot. Beta-carotene has a high absorption in the blue-violet light range. However, I haven’t found any scientific paper showing a protective effect of beta-carotene when applying on the skin.
Anti-brown spot protection:
I found two ingredients that potentially have an anti-brown spot effects Boldine and undecylphenoyl phenylalanine. However, this formula doesn’t contain any peeling ingredients. I doubt that this sunscreen used on its own will have any visible effect on fading brown spots. However, the high protection against UVA and B will undoubtedly prevent more damaged.
SVR is honest about it:
“For an enhanced anti-brown spot action, apply the other products in the CLAIRIAL range”. The Clairial range does contain a peeling agent.
Finish:
The finish is on the mat side and transparent. This sunscreen is a decent makeup base.
Disclaimer:
This formula is on the drier side as it contains bentonite (clay). If you have dry skin, this sunscreen is likely not for you. If you desire to give it a try, I would use and oil underneath.
This formula contains a lot of organic filters. If you have experienced sensitivity towards organic filters, I will do a patch test behind the ears. Unfortunately, I cannot guarantee that you won’t react to one of the filters.
Application:
This formula sets quickly. The best way to apply it is to layer it just after your moisturizer and work by section. I start with my forehead then my cheeks my nose, my eyes area, and my neck. If you wish to apply foundation, do not wait for the sunscreen to set.
Conclusions:
Overall, I am quite positive about this sunscreen. It is a heavy duty sunscreen to protect your skin. I recommend this sunscreen for long-time sun exposure or if you live in a country where the UV index is high. If you want more sunscreen recommendations, click here.
Thank you for your time.
A bientôt,
