There are two kinds of people in the world of sunscreen. Those who will tolerate almost anything in pursuit of adequate protection, and those who have decided that if it doesn’t sit beautifully under makeup and feel pleasant on the skin, it simply isn’t going to happen. I have enormous sympathy for the second camp, because for years the beauty industry gave us very little choice in the matter. Saltee, a brand doing genuinely interesting things in the SPF space, have produced something worth talking about here. The Saltee City Serum SPF50+ is lightweight in the way that actually means lightweight. It layers well under makeup, leaves a sheer, radiant finish and contains a rather thoughtful lineup of ingredients.
What is it?
A SPF 50 sunscreen with a luminous finish.
What Do I Think?
Venuceane, sourced from the Caribbean Sea, offers what the brand describes as photo-adaptive protection while hydrating the skin. Black ginger extract is in there to counteract photodamage and support cell regeneration. Nordic pine bark addresses hyperpigmentation, and panthenol attends to fine lines. It is, in short, pulling its weight beyond basic sun protection.
A couple of things to know before you buy. The finish is luminous rather than matte, which on some skins in warmer weather will tip over into shine that you may not have asked for. If you run naturally oily or prefer your SPF to disappear entirely, this probably isn’t your match.
The fragrance is also worth mentioning, because the brand calls it light and natural, and so it is, but on first application there is an odd, slightly warm note that reminded me of warm feet in gymnasium. It fades quickly and leaves no lasting trace, so I wouldn’t let it put you off entirely. But I’d suggest trying before you commit to a full bottle, as fragrance tolerance is a deeply personal thing and nobody wants to smell of PE for the sake of good UVA coverage.
Would I recommend?
If you like a luminous, lightweight sunscreen, then this is worth a try.
Brands Product Description
An indulgent SPF 50 serum for daily life unlike any other on the market. The lightest ever SPF 50. A delight to apply with a stunning natural light fragrance with a delicate texture and scent. Perfect as a base under makeup or worn on its own for a sheer fresh-faced radiance, City Serum SPF+ absorbs immediately yet provides SPF 50 UVA and UVB protection.
Key Ingredients
- Black Ginger Extract – counteracts photo-damage and provides pro-ageing benefits. Will boost the regeneration of skin cells
- Venuceane – sourced from the depths of the Caribbean Ocean to hydrate the skin and provide natural photo-adaptive protection
- Nordic Pine Bark – combats and prevents hyper-pigmentation caused by sun damage; gives a fresh-faced glowing look
- Panthenol – super moisturising with the intensity to improve skin hydration, elasticity and smooths the appearance of fine lines
How I Use It
I apply in my morning routine after serums and moisturiser. I use around 4-5 pumps for adequate coverage of my face, neck and ears.
Would I Repurchase/Buy?
Yes.
How Much?
£38.00 for 55ml
