I've tried & tested more than a dozen different sunscreens over the past couple of years, and Obagi Nu-Derm Sun Shield SPF 50 has emerged the definitive winner of the bunch! I'm just about done with my first tube (3 oz; full size), which I opened on May 8th. (I've been using it every single day on my face, neck and décolleté; I use a separate sunscreen for backs of hands and other exposed areas like arms and tops of feet). What I appreciate most about this product is its consistency, which I find to be ideal for my particular skin type (normal/bordering on oily). It's not overly thick, nor is it too fluid (runny = messy). It has a lovely, almost silky, texture: lightweight, creamy-smooth and non-greasy (which I love, having tried and been disappointed by other sunscreens that have what can only be described as a heavy 'waxy' feel. This sunscreen feels luxurious on the skin and allows it to 'breathe.' I've actually started looking forward to my morning skin care routine ever since I began using this lotion. I use Rx tretinoin gel nightly, so I require a facial screen with a high level of broad-spectrum protection, and preferably one that contains zinc oxide at a minimum of 6%. (This one has 10.5%.) In my experience, sunscreens with over 7% zinc oxide tend to leave my skin with a reflective (shiny) whitish blue-gray appearance. This, however, doesn't. The Obagi Sun Shield leaves my complexion looking its usual color. I use it in place of a daily facial moisturizer and in no way does this make my face feel tight, dry, or otherwise uncomfortable. I use the requisite amount of one-half teaspoon to cover the aforementioned areas, which I apply a minute or so following my vitamin C serum. It took a bit of experimentation before I was able to successfully apply it onto my face without it 'shredding' off in little white peel-y flecks (you probably know what I'm talking about). I'm not sure whether everyone has that issue, but it seems to be a common problem with the majority of sunscreens I've used (though I'm also assuming this effect is often exacerbated due to my use of tretinoin.) So while this Obagi one is by far the least 'peel-y' one I've ever tried, if I do exceed the proper amount, I notice right away. Most people don't use enough sunscreen, but avoid OVER-using or over-applying, especially on the facial skin. Because the finish will be less than desirable. I've achieved the best application by smoothing it on in a windshield wiper-like motion and then gently patting the remainder until I no longer see lotion streaks. (If I rub in small circles, it begins to peel right off.) I don't wear foundation, so I can't critique its compatibility with base makeup. One standout negative about this product is that, at least in my experience, it does not reapply well; as in, it does the dreaded peel-y shredding white flakey thing. This is really only a problem if you're using it on a heavy-exposure day (spending all day outside, or during peak hours on a boat or something). I've attempted to reapply many times, and under various circumstances -post-workout, mid-day without having sweated at all, early evening before an after-dinner walk outside -it doesn't reapply nicely at all. After exercising (sweating), for instance, what I have to do is use a cotton pad soaked with toner to semi-cleanse my face so that it's prepped; then I pat dry and apply the Sun Shield back onto my fresh skin. Yes, it's a pain-in-the-butt inconvenience, but I'd rather spend the extra minutes and know that I'm protected. I also wear a wide-brimmed hat religiously whenever I set foot outdoors, so I'd like to think that I'm generally good to go. Since I personally don't have dry skin, I can't say whether it would be moisturizing enough for individuals with a dry skin type. This sets by the way to a completely natural, satin-like finish on my skin neither matte nor dewy. Everyone has different skin, so it's difficult to recommend skin care products to others because, depending on so many factors, results will most likely differ. But all in all, I absolutely love this product and will be repurchasing (right now in fact). This is an excellent sunscreen that I think would be particularly well-suited for those of you with normal, normal to oily, or combination skin. On a related note: I ordered from '101 Med spa' and had a positive transaction on two separate occasions with this seller. (I ordered one for my mother after having gotten the one for myself and liking it so much). They offered a considerably lower price compared to others, and the items arrived quickly and fresh (2014 exp. date) both times. Hopefully this review has been helpful! UPDATE (Jan25, 2012): Editing my review to mention that I repurchased this product once again and continue to love it! UPDATE #2 (May 16, 2012): Still using and loving this. UPDATE #3 (Sep 11, 2012): Just cracked open yet another tube, still haven't found anything better!
It layers well under make-up, tends not to "roll" when you apply products over it. More-suited for oilier skins. Obagi SPF 35 is better suited for drier skin types.
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Absolutely LOVE this product. I honestly haven't found a better product for my face.My skin is what would be considered "normal" but can run a bit oily but this product is just creamy enough not drying and not oily.The real bonus is the SPF 50 WITH the zinc oxide.Perfect if you want to total coverage/blockage for face or elsewhere.
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I received what is called "Obagi" sunblock (same packaging as what I use).Previoulsy I have obtained Obagi sunblock from my dermatologist and have used it for many years.I still have the original product left for comparison. What I received from 101 medical Spa is NOT the same product.I have very sensitive skin and Obagi "the original" I have no problems with.The product that arrived packaged in the Obagi box does NOT have the same consistency, smell, and feeling as the one I got from my dermatologist.I checked the expiration date--product should be good but it is not.Furthermore, it BURNS my skin.As I said, I am very sensitive to sunblock and that is why I use Obagi or Shiseido rather than drugstore brands (which work fine for most people).This sunblock felt like the cheaper sunblocks that my face reacts to.I don't think it is the original product.No wonder it is much lower cost that thetypical price.I read another customer review questioning whether this was fake.I would not trust what you get from this vendor.If I had no experience with Obagi--I may not know the difference but I do!!!!
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Pricey but worth it.I goes on without greasiness, is light weight and odorless.I put it on every morning before my makeup.Best sunblock I have ever used.
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I ordered this sunblock after reading about all of the benefits related to Mexoryl SX at the EWG website and they wore right, the European sunblocks are simply the best!
