We believe that "The Body Shop - Skin Defence Multi- Protection Light Essence SPF 50 PA +++" can provide reliable sun protection based on the ingredients listed. We love that it can protect from both UVA and UVB rays (not all sunscreens with SPF ratings give UVA protection. UVA rays do not cause sunburn, but still damage our skin and lead to early aging).
As a plus, this sunscreen uses some of the new generation UV filters (Tinosorb M). These filters are more stable and more gentle on the skin.
This sunscreen should also be hydrating enough to use without an additional moisturizer during the day. Like all broad-spectrum sunscreens, this product has an anti-aging benefit.
Sunscreen filters
This is a so-called "chemical" sunscreen. It means that it uses organic UV filters. They typically offer good sun protection and rarely leave a white cast, but they can be irritating for some people with sensitive skin. These are the sun protection ingredients in this sunscreen: tinosorb s 0.65% - 0.95%, avobenzone 3.10% - 3.70%, octinoxate 3.50% - 4.30%, octisalate 2.00% - 2.40%, uvinul t 0.60% - 0.90%, homosalate 6.30% - 7.70%, tinosorb m 1.00% - 1.20% and octocrylene 4.40% - 5.40%.
Irritation risk
This product contains a bunch of common irritants, including ingredients that do not provide any known benefit for the skin. It might not be the best choice if your skin is sensitive. We assess the overall irritancy of it to be high. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here
You can see the detailed formula review with the breakdown of all actives in the product and the full ingredient list with estimated concentrations in the tables below.
About the brand
According to Cruelty-Free Kitty "The Body Shop" is cruelty free and so is its parent company.
Price
The product retails for 20.00£ in the United Kingdom and for 55.50$ in the United States.
For a detailed price comparison: click here.
