Let me start this story off by saying something that derms have engrained in our brains since the beginning of time (or, at least since the beginning of interviewing them for this magazine): SPF with makeup is NOT a replacement for regular sunscreen. It’s the icing on top, the “extra insurance,” the second banana…or, as New York dermatologist Jody A. Levine, MD so succinctly says: “It’s upsetting when patients insist that the sun protection in their makeup is sufficient. The simple answer is, ‘No—it’s not!’ Any additional protection is welcome, but proper sunscreen is still needed, especially in the summer.”
So, now that that disclaimer is out of the way, consider this glowing product review of Naked Sundays’ new SPF 50 Sheer Glow Balms as the secondary-step that is very worthy of earning the silver medal in the rather competitive sun-protection games.
The Australian brand is doing some seriously impressive things with sunscreen—a collagen-infused SPF and a “top-off” invisible mist are just two specific products in the well-curated line—and this trio of balms is no different.
The set comes with Rosé, Champagne, Espresso Martini shades (best described as rosy, shimmery and a subtle bronze) that are easy to apply and contain that coveted all-mineral zinc active. Plus, they’re good—the kind of “just-there” sheer color you’d use as makeup even if they didn’t have the added benefit of a high sun-protection factor.
The Benefits:
The word “multitasking” gets thrown around a ton, but these sticks really deliver. Depending on the shade and your skin tone, you can use them on the cheeks, nose, lips, as a primer and even on the eyes (they’re approved for SPF eyelid protection, which not a whole lot of products can say). They are perfect for SPF reapplication during the day, but also pretty much a dummy-proof product for anyone who doesn’t typically wear a ton of makeup and wants to take it up a notch.
Price/Where to Buy:
$55 for three, nakedsundays.com
