lola's secret beauty blog: Chemical Sunscreen

Showing posts with label Chemical Sunscreen. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 6, 2026

APRILSKIN Mugwort Calming Sunscreen SPF50 Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

K-Beauty sister brand to medicube, APRILSKIN recently launched their lightweight SPF serum on Amazon, and it is definitely a noteworthy find.

APRILSKIN Mugwort Calming Sunscreen SPF50 is a lightweight serum-like chemical sunscreen that absorbs quickly and leaves behind no white cast or an unpleasant greasy residue. If offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and it is infused with soothing mugwort and brightening niacinamide. Formulated for all types of skin, this sunscreen is fragrance-free and it helps calm irritated skin, and is even suitable for sensitive skin. As with every sunscreen– even with a high SPF– they only remain effective if one reapplies them as directed. I typically reapply every 75-90 minutes.

According to APRILSKIN,

Defends your skin against harmful UV rays with high-performance, broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection to help protect skin from UV exposure.

Driven by Mugwort to help soothe stressed skin and Niacinamide to help balance excess oil and improve the skin barrier.

A weightless, fast-absorbing formula that provides lasting hydration without leaving a white cast, heavy feel, or greasy residue.

Formulated to deeply hydrate, help support the skin's moisture barrier, and instantly cool skin temperature. Rigorously tested to be non-comedogenic, low-irritating, and fragrance-free.

Clinically tested to blend invisibly into all skin tones with zero chalky residue. A transparent, low-irritating finish for even the most sensitive skin.

Directions: Smooth evenly onto your face and neck as the final step of your skincare routine.

Ingredients: See below.

Overall Assessment: This is a very nice sunscreen, and it feels wonderful on the skin. If you prefer mineral sunscreens, then you may not be interested in this one since it is of the chemical variety, but it is effective and pleasant to use.

$21.80 for 1.69 oz. (at the time of this writing it was on sale for $13.00) from the APRILSKIN Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Tuesday, September 8, 2026

manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 is a high SPF sunscreen that is intended to feel more like a nourishing skincare product, than a traditional sunscreen, and I can emphatically say that I think that they have succeeded. This sunscreen is moisturizing, as its name suggests, and includes skin-loving ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin and Niacinamide. It glides across the skin with ease, creates a wonderful base for makeup, and it feels light and airy on the skin– again, as the name suggests. It leaves behind no residue, no white cast and it offers skin excellent protection– provided that you reapply it often (manyo suggests every two hours, but I tend to reapply between 1 and 1 1/2 hours). It has a light aroma, but it isn't long lasting or in the least but intrusive. I should also state that I absolutely love the pointed applicator tip because it allows you to control the flow of sunscreen from the tube, and I never end up with far more than I need. This is a very solid performing sunscreen, but if you only like to use mineral sunscreens, then be advised that this is a chemical sunscreen.

According to manyo.

As Korean skincare continues to shape the U.S. beauty conversation, manyo is bringing a skincare-first approach to daily sun protection with the launch of the Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream. FDA registered as an OTC sunscreen in the U.S., the formula is tested to deliver SPF 50 broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection while feeling lightweight, hydrating and comfortable enough for everyday wear.

Designed to feel more like skincare than a traditional sunscreen, manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream delivers broad spectrum SPF protection in a lightweight, hydrating formula that leaves no white cast, no stickiness and no greasy residue. The silky, air-light texture melts into skin for a soft, bare-skin finish, making it ideal for seamless makeup prep. The formula also offers a more comfortable sunscreen experience overall. Instead of an overpowering, greasy sunscreen odor, manyo provides an elevated user experience with a refreshing, spa-like scent. It was also created to feel comfortable around the eyes, with a no-sting finish even when applied generously or worn during sweating or outdoor activities.

The formula is powered by Solv-mate Technology, an advanced UV technology that helps blend UV filters evenly with less heavy oil. By swapping heavy oil for a lighter specialized agent that holds UV filters, Solv-mate Technology helps deliver strong UVA/UVB protection with a smoother, lighter feel that absorbs quickly and leaves skin moisturized and residue-free.

Beyond sun protection, manyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream is infused with a skincare-focused trio of Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to help visibly improve the look of dark spots, support a more even-looking complexion and replenish moisture depleted by UV exposure. The formula also includes Tocopherol, which helps reduce oxidative stress that can contribute to visible discoloration.

Directions: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply at least every two hours, and use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating. As a general rule of thumb, two fingers’ worth of product is recommended for daily facial application.

Ingredients: Active: Ensulizole 2.5%, Homosalate 5%, Octisalate 4.5%, Octocrylene 5%.

Inactive Ingredients: Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene, Propanediol, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Methylpropanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Behenyl Alcohol, Dimethiconol, Butylene Glycol, C11-13 Isoalkane, Dipropylene Glycol, Isododecane, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Tromethamine, Polyacrylic Acid, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Atlas Cedar Bark Oil, Hydroxyacetophenone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Polyether-1, Sphingomonas Ferment Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Rosemary Leaf Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Clary Sage Oil, Tocopherol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tranexamic Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate.

Overall Assessment: manyo is such a wonderful K-Beauty brand, and this sunscreen is very effective at protecting the skin from the sun, and it is hydrating. It definitely feels more like a skincare product that happens to contain an SPF, than a traditional sunscreen. I am quite impressed by this sunscreen.

$18.00 for 1.7 oz. from Amazon and Ulta (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Friday, August 7, 2026

haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

haruharu wonder is a K-Beauty brand making quite a splash in the US this summer, and the haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ is the perfect product with which to familiarize yourself with this brand this season.

About haruharu wonder,

Since entering the U.S. market, haruharu wonder has rapidly built a loyal following through its barrier-first skincare philosophy and thoughtfully formulated products, recently expanding nationwide at Target while continuing to grow as one of Amazon's fastest-rising Korean skincare brands.

Inspired by the Korean phrase haruharu, meaning 'day by day,' the brand transforms skincare into intentional rituals that nurture both skin and spirit. With Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+, haruharu wonder extends that philosophy to daily sun protection, making SPF an effortless step that supports long-term skin health while fitting seamlessly into everyday routines.

haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ is a lightweight and fragrance-free chemical sunscreen that is cruelty-free, PETA Approved, vegan, breathable and it leaves behind no white residue. Unlike many sunscreens, it includes Hyaluronic Acid– which retains hydration while the sunscreen protects the skin from the sun. This sunscreen layers nicely with makeup and it neither pills, nor does it cake up. It is formulated for all types of skin, and it is made without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, drying alcohols, oxybenzone, octinoxate or synthetic dyes. Not only is it an effective sunscreen, but it is also affordable!

Furthermore, this sunscreen is, "powered by haruharu wonder's barrier-first philosophy, the formula features soothing Centella Asiatica Extract, hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, and skin-strengthening Ceramides to help calm the look of redness and support a healthy skin barrier while maintaining lasting comfort throughout the day."

According to haruharu wonder,

Broad Spectrum SPF 60+ with UV filters that delivers trusted daily UVA/UVB protection with a breathable feel made for everyday wear, not just beach days.

Breathable, cloud-light texture with a lotion-like feel that wears comfortably all day with no greasy residue or white cast, blending seamlessly into every skin tone and layering easily under makeup.

Powered by Centella Asiatica, Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), and Ceramide NP to help keep skin calm, hydrated, and comfortably balanced while wearing SPF daily.

haruharu wonder Centella Calm Cloud SPF 60+ is a Oxybenzone-free, Octinoxate-free, fragrance-free formula made for sensitive, dry, and combination skin, with a lightweight feel that stays comfortable throughout daily wear. Formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, drying alcohols, or synthetic dyes. Vegan certified by V-Label and cruelty-free certified by PETA.

Broad Spectrum SPF 60+ combines effective UV protection with a weightless, breathable feel for effortless daily wear.

Overall Assessment: This is such a nice sunscreen! It feels comfortable on the skin, offers an SPF 60+ and it calms redness, hydrates the skin and offers skin barrier protection.

$15.30 for 1.69 oz (Regularly $18.00) from haruharu's Amazon Store (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Friday, August 1, 2025

Dr. Althea Aqua Glowing Sunscreen SPF 50+ Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Dr. Althea Aqua Glowing Sunscreen is the second sunscreen (the first is reviewed HERE) that I have used from Dr. Althea, a notable K-Beauty brand, and I really like it a lot. It is a very lightweight and non-sticky chemical sunscreen, with an SPF 50+, that is hydrating and sinks into the skin without leaving behind any sort of white filmy residue. It actually feels more like a serum than a sunscreen, and it offers excellent protection from the sun. Of course, one has to reapply it frequently to benefit from it, but it is so pleasant to use that it isn't an issue having to reapply it.

Additionally, this sunscreen is formulated with "bamboo water, sea grape extract and vegan seaweed-derived PDRN to hydrate skin and accelerate skin barrier repair. Also enriched with panthenol to soothe irritated skin." Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and dry skin.

According to Dr. Althea,

Aqua glowing sunscreen, a light, non-sticky sunscreen that hydrates and leaves your skin with a healthy glow while keeping it protected from the sun.

It offers a lightweight cream texture that applies easily and deeply hydrates, making it perfect for dry, unbalanced skin that required enhanced skin barrier restoration and sun protection.

With Panthenol and Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract, it instantly rejuvenates and locks in hydration through a moisture barrier, making it an excellent choice for those with dry skin.

Ingredients: Water, Bambusa Vulgaris Water, Isononyl Isononanoate, Propanediol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dibutyl Adipate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Niacinamide, Drometrizole Trisiloxane, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Glycereth-26, Panthenol, Behenyl Alcohol, Tromethamine, Decyl Glucoside, Caprylyl Methicone, Hydrogenated Castor Oil/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Adenosine, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, Ceramide NP, Tocopherol, Butylene Glycol, Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract, Sodium DNA.

Overall Assessment: If you are looking for a high SPF chemical sunscreen that hydrates the skin, then this is definitely one worthy of your consideration.

$19.90 for 45ml. from Dr. Althea, Stylevana and YesStyle (Affiliate Links). Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.

Monday, July 7, 2025

Dr. Althea Green Tea Fresh Sunscreen Review

Press Sample (Affiliate Links)

Dr. Althea Green Tea Fresh Sunscreen is made by a wonderful K-Beauty skincare brand, and this SPF50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen is lightweight and it leaves behind no white cast, whatsoever. Formulated with green tea leaf water, and seven different types of centella extract to, "reduce redness and leave skin feeling refreshed. Sodium DNA in the mix enhances skin barrier repair. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and oily skin." It has no scent, and it feels very comfortable on the skin. I have also noted that it serves as a very nice base for my foundation or tinted moisturizer, functioning much like a primer.

About Dr. Althea,

Dr. Althea is a vegan skincare brand rooted in meticulous clinical research and designed for sensitive skin.

Inspired by founder Evelyn Lee’s very own skin concerns and experience,

we're committed to developing gentle, yet effective formulas that soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.

Guided by the healing spirit of Althea, the Greek goddess of restoration, our products blend nature’s wisdom to formulate solutions that prioritize the health of your skin.

According to Dr. Althea,

Green tea sunscreen, formulated with essential ingredients, is a lightweight sunscreen that soothes and provides protection from the sun for sensitive, irritated skin.

It offers a lightweight, watery texture that is easy to apply and absorbs seamlessly into your skin, perfect for irritated, sensitive skin experiencing redness, yet requires UV protection.

It combines the benefits of Green Tea Extract and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water to protect and soothe the skin, making it an excellent choice for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

Benefits:

- UV Protection

- Soothing, suitable for sensitive, irritated skin

- Lightweight, watery, easy to absorb

Directions: 1. Apply about two finger lengths of sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside. Using enough sunscreen is key to effective protection. 2. Reapply throughout the day to keep your skin protected from UV rays.

Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Niacinamide, Drometrizole Trisiloxane, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Caprylyl Methicone, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Decyl Glucoside, Tromethamine, Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Sodium DNA, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid.