CHANEL UV Essentiel Multi-Protection Daily UV Care SPF 50

Other than my trusty Shiseido and Asian brand sunscreens, the CHANEL UV Essentiel Multi-Protection Daily UV Care SPF 50 sunscreen has been a long time favorite of mine. Recently, I re-purchased my third bottle and was reminded that I hadn’t posted a review for it yet. Because I know that there are so many other sunscreens that get the job done, I realize this may not be something that interests everyone. However, I’ve decided to go ahead with the post for those who are researching and curious.

On Chanel’s website, the UV Essentiel sunscreen is described as “skin’s guardian angel [that] shields skin safely beyond the reach of aggressive UVA/UVB rays.” I especially like that the promo picture is light and bright because it fits the description so well. Also, please make note that the title – UV Essentiel – is spelled correctly in French; and, yes, the American spelling for the word is “essential.”

As always, Chanel’s packaging is beautifully done. The white squeeze bottle is one that you need to shake since the formula of this sunscreen is the runny kind that is watery and thin. I’ve tossed this bottle around in my makeup bag numerous times and it’s held up well despite its white hue. It’s compact and travel friendly, which is always a plus for portability and convenience.

There is a floral fragrance that takes some getting used to if you’re not used to Chanel’s products. The scent is light and fluffy, but it does linger on the skin after application. The formula is great for underneath makeup – cream, gel, liquid, and powder makeup alike – this sunscreen wells wear underneath it all.

The formula is slightly thicker than the Shiseido formulations and I find it to be more moisturizing. I’ve also noticed that this product takes longer to dry on the skin than other liquid sunscreens I’ve tried. The finish is not matte like Shiseido’s, so that may turn some of you off from this product.

As you can see, the texture of this sunscreen is not as runny. It blends well into the skin and does not leave a white cast. Because the finish is a bit more slick, I cannot immediately apply my face makeup over this – in fact, I need to wait a good 10-15 minutes. This is why this particular sunscreen is not my #1 go-to product. Also, nowhere does it claim to be water-resistant or sweat-resistant (like Shiseido’s), so I wouldn’t suggest wearing this to go swimming or to be outside for hours sweating.

Chanel’s website also explains that this sunscreen is “a free-radical and anti-pollution shield with a Vitamin E derivative and plant extracts.” It moisturizes the skin well and is very soothing. The “oil-free, lightweight formula safeguard[s] [the] skin against environmental pollutants.” Other ingredients in this product like “licorice root extract and a highly effective combination of UVA and UVB filters help diminish and prevent the appearance of dark spots and signs of premature aging.”

I enjoy using this sunscreen and will continue to re-purchase it when I run out. As with many of my products, I rotate sunscreen as well from time to time. At the moment, I’m in the process of finishing up my Shiseido sunscreen and will probably move onto my new bottle of Chanel’s UV Essentiel afterwards. It’s nice to use but it’s not necessary; in fact, using Clarins or Shiseido sunscreens have proved to be just as effective with a friendlier price point. However, using Neutrogena on your face works just the same for about $10 – so all this is based on personal preference and budget.

As I’ve stated previously in other sunscreen posts, I prefer the runnier and watery formulations for my face because it’s lightweight, non-oily, and non-sticky. It’s also better for makeup application and every day wear as well because it’s just easier to use. Using this formulation in sunscreens has not affected the amount of coverage or protection for me – I know that many people are concerned about not using “enough” for their face for adequate sun protection, since this style of sunscreen is not thick and creamy.

Overall, I recommend this product even though it is a luxury item. Is a high-end sunscreen going to protect you more from the sun than other brands? Definitely not. But it’s nice to use and that’s the only excuse I’ve got. 🙂

1 fl. oz.
Made in France.
Retails for $54.00.

Active ingredients: octinoxate 7.5%, titanium dioxide 2%, zinc oxide 17.1%
*Quotes extracted from http://www.chanel.com.
*Pictures taken using CANON POWERSHOT SD1300 IS DIGITAL ELPH (12.1 Megapixels)

Advertisement

Rate this:

Share this:

  • More

Like this:

Like

Loading…