It has taken me years to find the perfect face sunscreen that is water resistant. This is frustrating, but it makes sense given the requirements. This particular part of the body is more sensitive and susceptible to breakouts. The skin on the face is more sensitive, and therefore prone to irritation and breakouts. You also have to be concerned about stinging eyelids and strange streaks when you sweat (or swim).
So when I discovered Clearstem’s YouAreSunshine Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+, a mineral sunscreen that checked every single one of my boxes (including ones I didn’t even know I had), I was thrilled—and felt like it was my duty to spread the word to the masses (you).
A couple of my favorite things about the formula: It doesn’t break me out (the brand was actually created with acne-prone people in mind) and it holds up when I splash around in the lake and sweat my face off on a run (it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes). I also just look…good when I wear it; it evens out my skin tone and has a blurring effect that’s much appreciated when I need sun protection but still want to feel cute. All of these perks would be enough to impress me, but keep reading to learn why this unassuming little bottle isn’t just talented; she’s a true star.
The application
Cathryne Keller
Cathryne Keller
I usually apply a light moisturizer before using this sunscreen—though I sometimes skip this step (especially in the summer when I’m short on time) because the formula is hydrating enough when my skin isn’t feeling particularly dry. I use a generous quarter-size blob (that’s how much sunscreen you need for your whole face, neck, and ears, FYI) and dot it around before rubbing it in. It looks kinda thick when I first pump it out, but it’s easy to spread and quickly sinks into my skin.
If I’m just going for a solo run or walk, I usually leave it at that and head out the door. But if I’m trying to look put-together (like for a workday or pool hang), I often add a little concealer and blush. This product is also great for primers (no more piling!)), but I’ve been favoring a more natural look these days, so I’ve only worn it under foundation a handful of times.
The Finish
My new SP-BFF shines in this area. Or doesn’t, actually: It gives me a bit of a “glow” but it’s not at all shiny or shimmery. The brand describes the finish as “velvety” and I cosign on that. It also delivers on its “blurring” promises—my skin tone and texture look much more even when I wear it. That’s how I first realized this SPF was special: I walked past the bathroom mirror a few hours after applying it and thought, Damn.
An important note: While Clearstem says this sunscreen’s subtle tint is universal and inclusive of all skin tones, I’m a white woman with a light complexion, so just because it’s a perfect match for my face, doesn’t mean it will be for everyone’s. I did read some reviews, and many people had darker skin tones than mine who said that the tint worked well for them. (And you can always return it if it’s not a winner.)
The results
Cathryne Keller
Cathryne Keller
The cosmetic benefits—namely, the blurring effect and even tone—set this sunscreen apart from others I’ve tried (and as a beauty and lifestyle editor, I’ve tried a lot). It’s a great product that protects and perfects. I’ve worn it on countless super sweaty runs and relied on it while swimming for hours (making sure to reapply it every 80 minutes, per the label), and I’ve never noticed any signs of sun damage (like sunburn or tanning).