
I am a sunscreen freak. Last summer I got burned really bad and started doing research about how important sun protection is. My family always makes fun of me for being the girl with SPF 100+ always on but I would rather be pale with healthy skin and tan and have sun damage. Along with SPF 100 on my body in the sun, I apply face sunscreen under my makeup everyday. My friends over at Brandefy have helped me firm the best drugstore face sunscreens.
The Best Drugstore Face Sunscreens
Brandefy is an amazing app that has a library of drugstore friendly options for high-end beauty products. This app is totally my secret weapon, everything is user-submitted and confirmed by the Brandefy team. The app is seriously so easy to use and find drugstore dupes in seconds!
I have been using the Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense sunscreen for a few months now but was looking for a more drugstore friendly option, so they sent me two different options to try. The CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen and the Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen.
Price Comparison:
Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense – $54 (1.7 oz)
CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen – $15 (2.5 oz)
Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen – $15 (5 oz)
As I mentioned earlier I wear sunscreen every day under my makeup. I apply after my moisturizer and before my primer, so finding a sunscreen that wears well under makeup is important. I really liked both sunscreens but overall the closest dupe for the Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense was the CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen. The consistency is very similar and how it rubs into the skin is almost identical. The packaging is also reminiscent of each other in a small bottle with a matte feel and a similar opening.
They are both mineral-based, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free with the primary ingredient being Zinc Oxide. They are definitely dupes and could definitely save you money by opting for the CeraVe option.
I will say all three products work great on the face and none leave a white residue. Even with taking photos I felt no difference or noticed a white cast on my face. However, in a strange turn of events, I actually ended up liking the Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen better than both Dermalogica and CeraVe. For starters, it’s way more bang for your buck based on price per ounce.
But I find this is so moisturizing and so easy to rub into the skin. It’s definitely lightweight and doesn’t feel greasy or oily. It does have a citrusy coconut fragrance to it which I enjoy but could see where other might not like that, but it also mineral-based. It is Oxybenzone Free, Paraben Free, Phthalate Free, PABA Free, Petrolatum Free, SLS (Sulfate) Free, Dye Free and Oil Free. Hypoallergenic. Dermatologist and Pediatrician Tested and not tested on animals.
Overall, I like all three and have very sensitive skin and had no issues with irritation on any of them. So if you just want to spend some extra money go for Dermalogica. If you want something identical opt for CeraVe but if you want something a little more comfortable to wear and easier to apply I recommend the Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen.
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[…] already did a full review on this sunscreen which you can read here, but I have been seriously loving it. I’m currently at the lake and have been reapplying […]