As a fair, freckly redhead, I must have put hundreds of facial SPFs to the test over the years. But it took until the end of 2023 for me to discover all things Ultra Violette. Even though I had seen the range when I'd been browsing Space NK, it wasn't until I was wasting some time before the next train home, that I headed over and tried a few of the products on the back of my hand. And immediately I was intrigued.
While they have a variety of sunscreens, depending on your skin type and the type of SPF protection that you're looking for, all of the ones that I've put to the test so far have been SPF 50. And that's normally the level of protection that I'm looking for.
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So far I've tried three of their sunscreens and today I'm sharing my thoughts on them.
Ultra Violette SPF 50+ Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen (£34)
First up we have the very first Ultra Violette product that I tried and the one which ultimately made me want to try out more from the range. This is essentially an SPF, moisturiser and primer in one and has been the SPF that I reach for most mornings but specifically when I'm applying any kind of makeup. Even my most beloved SPFs can sometimes pill when I start to apply concealer or a base product. But there was none of that with this SPF. It's also super hydrating on my dry/dehydrated skin and leaves my skin looking so healthy, with a subtle glow too.
It does have a slight tint to it but it disappears as soon as you start to rub it in. This means that there's no chance of any white cast or me looking even paler than I do normally. It doesn't irritate my eyes and it hasn't caused any blemishes to appear either. This has basically become my ride or die facial SPF ever since trying it. And I can see it being one for years to come.
Ultra Violette SPF 50 Preen Screen SPF Reapplication Mist (£32)
Now even I can forget to reapply my SPF when I'm outside for hours on end. I've also struggled to find an SPF mist that doesn't interfere with my makeup underneath. So, I was really keen to try this one out, especially when I saw so many people rave about it on social media.
I've been thoroughly impressed by the way that it works on top of makeup and how it adds an immediate glow to the skin. It's also a really handy size to take with you and is great for any holidays or days out. It is worth remembering that this is a reapplication mist. Therefore, it should be used throughout the day to top up your SPF, instead of being used as your primary SPF.
My only real bugbear with this SPF mist is that it does have quite a strong alcohol smell to it, which could be off-putting for some. It almost smells like hairspray at times, which isn't ideal. I would also be careful when using this around the eyes. But to be honest, as long as you close your eyes when applying it, don't point it directly in that area and do it in a well aired room or outside, I don't think you should have any issues.
Ultra Violette SPF 50+ Face Fluid Ultralight Sunscreen (£37)
Finally we have the most recent addition to my Ultra Violette sunscreen collection. And I can't get over how silky a consistency this has. Despite having the words 'Ultralight' in the name, I really was surprised at how lightweight this is on the skin. I personally use this on no makeup days, so can't comment on how it interacts with makeup. But this is the sunscreen that I pick up most days, particularly when I'm only popping out for an hour or so.
So, if you hate the feeling of a really thick facial SPF and are looking for something lightweight, this would be the one that I would steer you in the direction of. Again, it doesn't irritate my eyes or skin and isn't greasy either. It also doesn't really have a smell to it, which I like.
I'm definitely intrigued by a few other Ultra Violette products, namely their Sheen Screen lip balms and the Daydream Screen Tinted Veil, which are on my list to try out next.
You'll find Ultra Violette at the likes of Space NK, Cult Beauty, Sephora UK and Harrods, as well as on their own website.
Have you tried anything from Ultra Violette? If so, what were your thoughts? And what is your favourite facial SPF of all time?
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