It's all about the C word today. Those of you who know me of old will remember that is what I used to call Clinique - the 'C' word. Well, *deep breath* I apologise.
On some counts. I still think Clarifying Lotion (except the mild one) is akin to nail varnish remover but THAT ASIDE - I've been more impressed with recent offerings. These are two of them.
City Block Sheer 25SPF is an oil-free tinted broad spectrum sunscreen designed for use alone or under makeup. Don't be put off by the tinted part - I've tried both of these on four of us in the office - the tint only highlights your skin with a glow - it's not foundation.
Available in two strengths:
SPF25
SPF40
One size:
40ml
'UVA' symbol on pack:
No
Water resistant?:
No
Perspiration resistant?:
Yes
Rub resistant?:
Not stated.
Texture:
Goes on and feels like a tinted moisturiser
Fragrance:
Smells lovely - has the SPF smell but it is not overpowering
Suitability for darker skins:
I tested the SPF25 - that was fine on very pale to darker olive skins. Not tested on black skin but there is no white residue that I think would be problematic.
What else?:
City Block is designed to do just that. Protect from grime, smog, smoke, pollution in general.
Oil-free.
This is a mineral sunscreen - not chemical - so those of you allergic to traditional SPF should be fine.
Acts as a primer - use this instead of a BB/CC/TT (total timewaster) cream.
Verdict:
Pretty much the perfect SPF for those of you that need/want protection on a daily basis. Not just on a beach. I like this. I will use this myself. Now someone go pick London Makeup Girl up off the floor and give her a gin.
Right. When you leave the city behind and head for the beach - you need the real deal. Clinique Sun has lots of variations and comes in a 35 stick, 30 and 40 for the face.
Available in three strengths:
SPF35 STICK
SPF30 cream
SPF40 cream
One size:
The creams are 50ml
'UVA' symbol on pack:
No - however, the leaflet states 'Formulas comply with EU recommendations for UVA/UVB protection'. I an guessing it doesn't contain the UVA 'circle' symbol to save Clinique having different packaging for different countries?
Water resistant?:
Yes.
Perspiration resistant?:
Yes - sweat resistant. Score for The Hirons. Does anyone actually 'perspire'? Like a Lady would in Downton Abbey? My entire side of the family sweat like rugby players wearing thermals and uggs near the equator. I digress.
Rub resistant?
Says 'reapply after rubbing'.
Texture:
Really nice. Predictably thicker than the City Block but one comment from a tester was 'WOW. That is REALLY good for a 40.'
Fragrance:
Fresh SPF.
Suitability for darker skins:
Black skins would get a glow. Healthy glow. Not Frankenstein glow.
What else?:
Fragrance free. Allergy tested. Suitable for sensitive skins. Has Clinique patented 'SolarSmart' antioxidant protection that is triggered by sun exposure for extra help. Stick with the SPF info - the jury is very much out on whether antioxidants in creams do anything to protect the skin. Internally, yes. Externally, derms will argue about it for days.
Verdict:
Another one that is coming home with me. Good, solid, SPF - the UVA symbol is missing but it does say 'UVA/UVB high protection'. And yes, I love the yellow packaging.
Clinique suncare is available at all Clinique stockists and on www.Clinique.co.uk. Prices start at £17.00.
*PR samples. But I would buy.
