Sunscreen SPF 50 by Mel Skincare
Sunscreen SPF 50 by Mel Skincare
Sunscreen SPF 50 is a high-protection, modern chemical sunscreen with a hydrating and antioxidant-rich "skincare-first" approach. It's formulated as a gel, which typically indicates a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that is ideal for oily, combination, or normal skin types that prefer a non-greasy finish.
Key Features:
PHENYLBENZIMIDAZOLE SULFONIC ACID (3%)
What it is: Also known as Ensulizole.
Function: This is a UVB filter. It is highly effective at protecting against UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn and skin cancer).
Characteristics: It is water-soluble, which means it feels light on the skin and doesn't leave a greasy residue. However, it can generate free radicals when exposed to sunlight, which is why it is usually paired with antioxidants (like Ascorbic Acid in this formula) to neutralize them.
Why 3%: This is a moderate concentration. It provides good UVB protection but is not the sole heavy lifter.
DISODIUM PHENYL DIBENZIMIDAZOLE TETRASULFONATE (3%)
What it is: Also known as Bisdisulizole Disodium (or Neo Heliopan AP).
Function: This is a UVA filter. Specifically, it protects against long UVA rays (UVA1), which are responsible for premature aging, wrinkles, and deepening pigmentation.
Characteristics: It is one of the few filters that provides excellent UVA protection while being water-soluble. It is photostable (doesn't degrade quickly in the sun).
Why 3%: This is a significant concentration. Because this is a powerful UVA filter, 3% provides a high level of protection against aging rays. This suggests the SPF is likely PA++++ (the highest UVA protection rating in the Asian system).
OCTOCRYLENE (1%)
What it is: A chemical UV filter.
Function: It is primarily a UVB filter, with some coverage in the UVA2 spectrum (short UVA rays).
Characteristics: Octocrylene is often used not just for its own sun protection, but as a stabilizer. It helps other filters (like the ones above) remain effective longer when exposed to sunlight. It also helps make the formula water-resistant.
Why 1%: At this low percentage, it is likely included more as a stabilizer and solvent for other ingredients than as a primary filter.
THE BOTANICALS AND SOOTHERS
This formula includes a concentrated extract complex, similar to the toner and moisturizer you asked about earlier, but with new additions.
CAMELLIA JAPONICA LEAF EXTRACT
Function: Rich in antioxidants (polyphenols). It helps protect the skin from the free radicals generated by both UV exposure and the chemical filters themselves. It also provides deep nourishment.
SYRINGA OBLATA BARK/LEAF POWDER (Lilac)
Function: This is a unique ingredient. It is derived from the lilac plant and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps calm the skin and prevent the redness caused by sun exposure.
PAEONIA ALBIFLORA ROOT EXTRACT (Peony)
Function: A traditional herbal ingredient used to brighten the skin and reduce inflammation. It helps soothe the skin and prevent post-sun hyperpigmentation.
SAURURUS CHINENSIS & CENTELLA ASIATICA
Function: As seen in the moisturizer and toner, these are anti-inflammatory powerhouses. They calm the skin and help repair any damage caused by UV stress.
ALTHAEA OFFICINALIS & ALOE BARBADENSIS
Function: Provide soothing hydration and form a protective film to prevent the skin from drying out under the sun.
ASCORBIC ACID (Pure Vitamin C)
What it is: The pure, active form of Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid).
Function: This is a major win for this sunscreen. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals caused by UV exposure. It also boosts collagen production and helps fade dark spots. Putting Vitamin C in a sunscreen is ideal because it protects the skin from the inside while the filters protect from the outside.
TOCOPHERYL ACETATE (Vitamin E)
Function: A stable form of Vitamin E. It is a moisturizing antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes from UV damage and supports the skin's barrier.
HYDROLYZED BETA-GLUCAN
Function: A polysaccharide derived from oats or fungi. It is a powerful soother and hydrator. It penetrates deeply to calm irritation and boost the skin's immune response, helping it repair itself after sun exposure.
HYALURONIC ACID & SQUALANE
Function: Hyaluronic Acid provides deep hydration. Squalane is a lightweight oil that mimics the skin's natural sebum, preventing the sunscreen from drying out the skin and keeping the barrier strong.
MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL
Function: A nourishing oil rich in palmitoleic acid (similar to Sea Buckthorn). It helps repair the skin barrier and keeps the skin soft.
How to use:
Apply liberally and evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply use a water resistant, sunscreen if swimming or sweating and very 2 hours. Sun protection measures. Spending time in the sun increase your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. To decrease the risk, regularly use a sunscreen with a Broad Spectrum SPF value of 30 or higher and other sun protection measure including limit time in the sun, especially from 10 am-2pm. Wear long sleeved shirt, pants hats and sunglasses. Children under 6 months of age, ask a doctor.
Ideal for:
All skin types.