My complexion falls in the category of “why is there a Victorian child haunting our photos?” pale, so it has been drilled into me from an early age that SPF is a non-negotiable. Now in my 30s, I’m grateful for this. But as someone who has sensory issues, it has been a struggle.
Obvs, I am very picky about any products that go on my face. Also, if something feels too overwhelming for my brain, I simply won’t do it at all (see: my matcha dilemma).
And because my brain is ~super fun~ inside, that sense of overwhelm can come from something incredibly small, like the formula leaving a weird feeling on my hands after applying. Details like this can be the difference between a successful morning skincare routine and not applying anything.
This means finding a sunscreen that a) doesn’t make me want to peel my skin off my face and b) doesn’t add an extra step to my routine has basically been my life’s work.
I guess it’s time to hang up my cape because I’ve finally found it: Daybird Tinted Skincare SPF 50.
Daybird is a woman-owned company, and all their energy has been poured into this one product—a vegan serum, moisturizer, sheer foundation, and SPF 50 sunscreen all rolled into one. It performs each role phenomenally, unlike some hybrid products that fall short of expectations in at least one area.
Like, the serum and moisturizer are actually legit, not just there to be buzzwords. The formula is actually made with skincare-grade ingredients like niacinamide and bisabolol. The former is an antioxidant that helps smooth skin and increase collagen, and the latter is a chamomile extract that helps reduce inflammation and even skin tone.
It protects against blue light and UVA/UVB rays with non-nano mineral SPF 50. (For a refresher on why we prefer mineral SPFs, click here.) It’s available in four different shades (no surprise, I wear the lightest shade), and it gives skin a dewy glow without a hint of white cast.
As for my sensory issues, this sunscreen does all of that and doesn’t feel sticky, goopy, or too velvety. It’s also incredibly easy to apply with just your fingertips and minimal blending.
On days when I want a little more coverage (like when I’m PMSing and having hormonal breakouts), I mix a little into my Oxygenetix Foundation—a hack I learned from Sarah, our CCO. The two products mix together beautifully, and the finish looks so natural.
But most days, it’s literally the only thing I need to put on my face. And for that, my skin (and super fun brain) are eternally grateful.
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