Most people in the United States tend to not apply sunscreen unless they plan on being outdoors for an extended period of time. And according to this scary infographic from Paula’s Choice, only 1 in 7 women wear SPF daily (woah!) and 85% of the population still doesn’t know that brown spots and wrinkles come from the sun’s harmful rays.
Sunscreen is my deserted island product! It is *the* most important thing you will put on your face that will prevent wrinkles and brown sun spots. So, yes, I am a bit of a sunscreen addict and I make sure to apply generously, because sunscreen won’t do its job if used sparingly.
For the longest time, I used Shiseido’s Extra Smooth Sun Protection Lotion and then was curious to search out a more affordable Korean version with an even better formula.
Then I found “the one.” Missha’s Mild Essence Sun Milk has all the qualities I look for in a great sunscreen: lightweight, non-greasy, UVA & UVB protection, and no white cast. It replaces that artificial scent of a traditional sunscreen with a subtle, sweet fragrance.
And, more importantly, a price point I was happy with.
Very light texture and absorbs quickly.
The term “milk” is a very fitting descriptor of the product and is used quite often in Korea to describe sunscreen. Like the dairy product, the texture is very light and the formula absorbs quickly into the skin. There is no white cast and is non-greasy, making it perfect to wear under makeup. Most importantly, it protects against UVA and UVB. Unfortunately, most traditional sunscreens only shield against UVB rays, which cause redness and burning. However, UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and has been known to play a major part in skin aging and wrinkling—so you definitely need that UVA protection.
What makes this product really unique and special is that it actually has essence as part of the formula! (FYI: I’m a major essence addict!) You are not only protecting your skin, but also nourishing it so that it promotes cell renewal while hydrating it all at the same time. And sensitive skin types rejoice!: The sun milk is alcohol-free and hypoallergenic.
Now the question: When should I apply SPF? After moisturizer! Shake the bottle and apply generously over your face and neck, paying extra attention to areas the sun typically hit first, such as the forehead, top of your cheeks, nose, and chin.
And don’t be afraid to layer up on your sun protectants. I’ve been asked frequently, “Do I need this if I use a cushion/bb cream that has SPF in it?” Remember, sunscreen only works effectively when you apply generously. Cushion compacts alone, while high in SPF, may not be protecting you fully, especially in the summer. I’d recommend using the Essence Sun Milk as a base before the cushion compact. And throughout the day, use the cushion compact to reapply the SPF.
My hope is that with this product (or even just this blog post) I can persuade everyone (yes, even you boys) to using sunscreen every day because it truly is your best defense against melanoma and premature aging.