Review: Belo Essentials SunExpert (SPF40, Face)

I love taking care of my skin. Our skin is the first thing people see and, whether we like it or not, our skin's condition makes an impact to the people we meet. But aside from wanting clear, beautiful skin, I'd also like to stay cancer-free. Did you know that at least one person dies form melanoma every hour? (from Skin Cancer Facts)

Photo: glogster

But wait, why am I talking about sun and skin cancer in August?! You must be thinking, "Hello! Tapos na ang summer diba?! Ano ba naman tong blogger na to!" But that's where you're wrong. There's a big misconception that you're only at risk of melanoma during summer when the sun is always up and shining brightly. While it's true that the sun is strongest in summer, the dangerous UV rays do not disappear just 'coz it's the 'ber months or typhoon season.

To protect my skin from the UV rays, I wear sunblock every day. Yes people, we have to wear sunblock even if it's not summer and a trip to the beach isn't part of our calendars. Why? Because according to Dr. Mehmet Oz, "UVA rays can penetrate glass windows, meaning you're at risk while sitting close to a window, whether in a car, at home or in the office. Also up to 80% of the UV rays can pass through clouds."

Did this surprise you? You're not alone; I was surprised too! When I became aware of my skin's needs, I dedicated a lot of my time to search for a really good sunblock. The sunblock I use at the beach is too thick and heavy for everyday use. It also leaves a bit of a white cast, which is acceptable at the beach (because it disappears after taking a dip), but is a huge no-no at the office. Another requirement for me is an SPF of at least 15, which is generally recommended for everyday use.

After a few misses, I finally found a perfect sunblock for me and I'd like to share this with you. Introducing, the Belo Essentials SunExpert (SPF40) for the face.

Photo: uptowndowntownsite

Product description. "This moisturizing facial sunblock effectively provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays. Lightweight and non-sticky, it also gives superior cell protection against sunlight and pollution. Sun Expert strengthens the skin's defense system, maintaining healthy skin while simultaneously preventing accelerated premature skin aging." It's water-resistant, fragrance-free, hypo-allergenic, dermatologist-tested, and takes effect immediately. To know more about this product, please visit their Facebook page here."

Here are various hand shots for your viewing pleasure. Or not. lol.

left: no product. right: with product - no difference, no white cast!

left: you only need a small amount because it's sooo easy to spread. right: when spread out - silky, liquid-ish texture

Rating: ★★★★★
Pros:

• Not heavy, sticky and oily
• Very easy to apply
• My skin takes on a healthy, dewy glow after application (NOTE: I have normal/dry skin so I'm not sure how this will hold up for oily/combination skin)
• SPF40 PA+++ - it has a high SPF so it's also the same sunblock I use at the beach. I just re-apply more often. I find beach sunblocks for the body too harsh for my face and I'd end up getting pimples after
•  Hypo-allergenic and non-comodogenic - no break-outs!
• Water-resistant
• Takes effect immediately - most sunblocks instruct you to wait for at least 20 minutes after application before exposing yourself to the sun

By the way, it has a mild scent, but it doesn't really last long (there you go, all you scent-averse people haha!). Scent or not, I don't really mind. I just find it weird since it says fragrance-free in the packaging.

Cons: nada!

I cannot stress enough how much I love this product. I really recommend it to all my friends. This only costs P229.75 for 50ml at Watsons and it will last you for months. Usually, I do my groceries at Cherry Foodarama in Congressional 'coz it's cheaper there, but I couldn't find this. Not sure if it's out of stock or they really don't carry this.

How about you? Care to share your favorite sunblock or sunscreen?

Photo: wellsphere