Clarins SPF 50+ and SPF30 Sun Wrinkle Control Cream

Available in three strengths:

SPF15

SPF30

SPF50+

There is a wider selection available - I'm just focusing primarily on the face.

One size:

75ml (nice big fat size)

'UVA' symbol on pack:

Yes

Water resistant?:

Resistant - Yes

Waterproof - No

Perspiration resistant?:

Yes

Rub resistant?:

Not stated.

Texture:

Goes on and feels like a normal face cream - absorbs well

Fragrance:

I love the smell - if you've ever used Clarins SPF before you'll know the scent. Same every year. Reminds me of the SUN!

Suitability for darker skins:

I tested all three strengths on all but the very darkest skins. I don't think this would leave any residue or tell-tale SPF trace on any skin.

What else?:

Contains a Clarins patented Phyto-Sunactyl 2 Multi-Cellular protection complex - which in layman's terms is designed to strengthen and reinforce the skin and protect from collagen damage. 

These photos don't show the circled UVA logo mentioned on the SPF cheat sheet - but it is on the packaging of this year's products - which I have - meaning that at least a 1/3 of the UV protection is UVA.

Verdict:

I love Clarins sun products. Everyone used to rave about Lancaster (good - but not the be all and end all) but for me Clarins have always done sun well. It's hard to go wrong to be honest. 

Good sizes, good technology, good price. 

What's not to love?

Clarins is available on Clarins.co.uk and is highly recommended.

*PR samples

Shiseido Expert Sun Aging Protection SPF30

I thought I'd keep the reviews of the SPF's as user-friendly as possible - i.e. not let the brands overwhelm with the science and marketing blurb and just give the details (I think) you need.

First up is Shiseido's Expert Sun Aging Protection Cream. 

Available in two strengths:

SPF30

SPF50

Two sizes:

50ml

100ml

'UVA' symbol on pack:

Yes!

Water resistant?:

'Very'

Perspiration resistant?:

Yes

Rub resistant?:

Not stated.

Texture:

Lovely - absorbs easily leaving no 'white'residue

Fragrance:

Subtle SPF smell, smells like a hybrid of a Shiseido moisturiser and SPF - pleasant

Suitability for darker skins:

I tested the SPF30 - I think it would be fine for dark skins. 

What else?:

Sand proof. (!?)

Has patented SuperVeil UV-360 technology that ensures the coverage over every area of the skin - basically claims to reach the parts other sun creams don't reach! :)

ProfenseCEL defends against UV exposure by limiting enzyme activity.

Verdict:

A lovely cream that absorbs very quickly, leaves no 'white' residue and is EU approved ensuring at least 30% of the protection is towards UVA damage. (See SPF Cheat Sheet)

Shiseido Expert Sun Aging Protection starts from £27.50 and is available next week from House of Fraser.