I’ve heard rave reviews about Skin1004 sunscreens, so when I spotted the Tone Brightening Tone-Up Sunscreen version in TK Maxx, I snapped it up without hesitation. In hindsight, it turns out I may have picked the worst one of the lot.
What is it?
A moisturiser designed for all skin types, but especially sensitive skin which nourishes, moisturises and helps strengthen and repair the skin barrier.
What Do I Think?
On paper, it sounds great. The formula contains niacinamide and tranexamic acid, both excellent for brightening pigmentation and evening out skin tone, along with centella asiatica, a soothing hero for calming irritation. Add “tone-up sunscreen” to the label and it promises that tricky balance of protection, brightening, and barrier care.
But here’s the reality – the white cast is dreadful. And I say this as someone with pale skin. On me, it was stark, flat, and frankly made me look unwell. My partner even asked if I was feeling alright… never the response you want when wearing sunscreen.
Application isn’t much better. It takes an age to massage in, clings horribly to any facial hair, and never truly blends, no matter how patient you are. Once it’s on, it dries down chalky, leaving that tight, parched feeling like your skin is crying out for moisturiser. Not exactly the effortless, everyday SPF experience I was hoping for.
If you are extremely fair, and you don’t mind (or even prefer) the chalky veil that some mineral sunscreens leave, you might just tolerate it. But the truth is, mineral sunscreens have come a long way, even this year alone. Brands like Kate Somerville (review here) and Murad (review here) have shown that you can have broad-spectrum mineral protection without looking like you’ve powdered your face with chalk.
Would I recommend?
This one’s a miss for me. Sunscreen should protect, sit comfortably on the skin, and make you feel good about wearing it daily. Sadly, this did none of those things. If you’re curious about Skin1004, I’d suggest trying another formula in the range instead.
Brands Product Description
Discover the secret to radiant, youthful skin with Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Tone-Up Sunscreen. This innovative K-beauty marvel not only shields your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays but also boasts a blend of anti-ageing ingredients to revitalise and protect your complexion. Formulated with potent components like Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, and Adenosine, this tinted sunscreen fights against the signs of ageing while providing superior sun protection. Harnessing the power of Centella Asiatica Extract and Madecassoside, it soothes, hydrates, and boosts antioxidant levels for a luminous, even-toned complexion. This sunscreen features a hybrid formula, combining both mineral and chemical UV filters to ensure broad-spectrum protection with a lightweight, non-greasy finish. Elevate your Korean sun care routine with Skin1004 and unveil your skin’s natural radiance.
Key Ingredients
- Niacinamide – helps strengthen the skin barrier, regulate sebum production, minimise pores and evens skin tone.
- Tranexamic Acid – brightens skin by targeting hyperpigmentation like dark spots, melasma, and sun damage by inhibiting melanin production, while also reducing redness and irritation due to its anti-inflammatory properties
How I Use It
I would apply it as the last step in my skincare routine (after serums & moisturiser).
Would I Repurchase/Buy?
No.
How Much?
£19.00 for 50ml.
