Review: LaVanila The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40

The EWG recently released a 2013 sunscreen report, with some surprising news. My previous sunscreen of choice, the powder sunscreen, are being phased out due to FDA concerns regarding inhalation and adequate application. I have been testing numerous sunscreens and sunscreen moisturizers, so I thought I'd take a look at the EWG's Best Sunscreens of 2013 to see if there was anything new I'd missed. One of these was from Lavanila, a company whose products I had yet to review - until now. I started with their sunscreen, called The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40.

Pros:

• Broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection
• No "sunscreen smell" or added fragrance
• Gentle ingredients
• Sheer, light finish
• Can be worn under makeup
  

Cons:

• Separates naturally

Summary:
While this sunscreen was more expensive than what you'd find in many health food stores, it smelled a lot better and had a better consistency than most I've tried. The ingredients are gentle, coming in at a low 2 on EWG's Skin Deep database (which was part of the reason I sought it out in the first place). Contrary to my original expectations, it doesn't really smell like vanilla, or much of anything, really. I love that there is no "sunscreen smell." However, the product does seem to separate naturally when left for long periods of time. Also, it is not oil-free, and I'm not sure that I want to use a product with oils on my face in the long term, as I have combination skin. If you use powder primer and/or foundation, this would probably be fine, but I tend to wear liquid foundation. Overall, it seems like a gentle product with good performance, but I'd recommend it for those with dry to normal skin.

Also available on Amazon.com.

Product Ratings (out of 5)

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Performance
Presentation
Purity
Value

Disclosure notice: This product was purchased by the reviewer. No additional compensation was accepted for this review and the opinions are my own. Please verify any claims with the manufacturer, especially if you have any allergies or concerns.

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