After learning about the Purito sunscreen controversy of 2020, I was set on only purchasing sunscreens that have been certified by reputable organizations. During my research, I conveniently came across this YouTube video. Here, Ahn In-Sook, Director of the Korea Institute Of Dermatological Sciences, introduces 11 Korean sunscreens and sunblocks clinically tested and verified by their research institute. I spent days reading about the products featured in the video before eventually deciding on Scinic’s liquid variant. Despite being an unfamiliar brand to me, it just seemed to be the most sulit of the bunch given its high SPF and PA ratings, which are at 57.6 and 23.5 respectively, and discounted price.
The Scinic Enjoy Super Mild Sun Essence is a chemical sunscreen infused with hydrating essences and plant-derived extracts which, together, provide soothing and moisturizing benefits to the skin. True to its claims, it does not contain any essential oils nor drying alcohols. It is also fragrance-free in the sense that no fragrance has been added to mask, nor chemicals have been added to remove, the natural smell of the product. This formulation makes the sun cream suitable even for sensitive skin; it is “super mild” as the name suggests.
As for sun protection, it uses new generation UV filters, such as Uvinul A Plus and Tinosorb S, that work not only to provide broad-spectrum coverage but high photostability as well. It certainly looks good on paper, but how does it fare in actual usage?
As mentioned, this sunscreen from As mentioned, this sunscreen from Scinic is fragrance-free, although it is not without a scent. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but it smells like a blend of plant—obviously from the plant-derived extracts—and Cherry Laffy Taffy. Don’t worry, the scent is mild and goes away almost instantly. Its consistency is what you’d expect from a liquid sunscreen: thin and lightweight. However, in spite of its easily spreadable texture, it does have a notable “tacky stage.”
Upon application, it looks and feels greasy and sticky. It takes about 10-20 minutes for the fluid to completely settle into your skin, but once it has and the tackiness subsides, you are left with a youthful, healthy glow that is silky to the touch. For me, that radiance stays on for hours without the greasy feeling, and it’s only by the fourth or fifth hour do I start to notice oil building up in my t-zone. On the other hand, those with oily skin might find that greasiness to persist from the outset. While it is lightweight on initial application, reapplications tend to feel heavier and, again, tacky. That’s why I suggest using an oil blotter or patting the area with paper towel first in order to remove any excess shine and pore buildup before reapplying.
The sun protector leaves no white cast, making it suitable for all or most skin tones. I feel it layers nicely under makeup as well, providing a subtle, natural sheen under matte and semi-matte finishes. I haven’t exactly observed any “immediate cooling effect” after application. Nonetheless, my combination skin does feel moisturized enough throughout the day, despite being the only product I have on, whereas those with extra dry skin may feel the need for a more moisturizing product later in the day.
Regarding its brightening and wrinkle improvement claims, well, these are benefits that naturally come with long-term sunscreen use. As for sweat-resistance, you’d be delighted to know the Scinic Enjoy Super Mild Sun Essence doesn’t sting my eyes even when my entire face gets covered in sweat—and yes, I apply it right on the eyelids before going out for a run. However, I did detect cream stains on my cap which I can safely assume are from the sunscreen.
**Everyone’s skin is different. What works/doesn’t work for me may not/may work for you. Remember to check the ingredients list and do a patch test before using any new skincare product.
At the last step of basic skincare, evenly apply an appropriate amount on areas vulnerable to UV ray exposure, such as the face.
UV FILTERS:
(4th) Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus): UVA1, UVA2
(5th) Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S): UVA1, UVA2, UVB
(7th) Polysilicone-15 (Parsol SLX): UVB
(8th) Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol (Tinosorb M): UVA1, UVA2, UVB
(9th) Ethylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150): UVB
(11th) Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone (Uvasorb HEB): UVA2, UVB
Propanediol: moisturizer/humectant
Niacinamide: anti-inflammatory, skin barrier repair, brightening
Glycerin: moisturizer/humectant, skin barrier repair
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
Bambusa Vulgaris Water: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
Centella Asiatica Extract: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizer/humectant
Adenosine: anti-inflammatory, skin barrier repair
Panthenol: anti-inflammatory, moisturizer/humectant, skin barrier repair
Main reference (ingredient functions): INCI Decoder (https://incidecoder.com/)
FULL INGREDIENTS LIST (according the product label): Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polysilicone-15, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Niacinamide, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Vanilla Tahitensis Fruit Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris Water, Centella Asiatica Extract, Caprylyl Methicone, Coco-Caprylate/?Caprate, Silica, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2, Decyl Glucoside, Acrylates/?C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Adenosine, Panthenol, Dipropylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum