If you’re on the hunt for a new sunscreen now that the weather is warming up and we can spend a little bit more time outdoors, try the new The INKEY List Polyglutamic Acid Dewy Sunscreen SPF 30. Though it just launched, people are quickly becoming obsessed with the creamy, hydrating formula and zero white cast. These are my honest thoughts.
My Skin Type:
Combination. I’m drier in the cold-weather months and oilier in the warm-weather ones thanks to the high humidity on the East Coast.
The Benefits:
For me, a hydrating sunscreen is a must, and this one delivers. But, some hydrating sunscreens I’ve tried don’t play well with my other skin-care products, or my foundation, resulting in pilling (the worst!). This one layers well—I tried it on top of both vitamin C serum and a thicker cream—and doesn’t pill under my tinted moisturizer (I’m not so much of a traditional foundation girl in the summer).
The ingredient trio responsible for the big hydration boost is 8-percent polyglutamic acid (PGA), squalane and glycerin. Just like hyaluronic acid, PGA is a water magnet, yet it holds 5,000 times its weight in water (versus HA’s 1,000). Remember the TikTok trend going viral this time last year when everyone was mixing PGA serums into their foundations for a glass skin effect? Think of this as PGA serum mixed into sunscreen instead. It gives the skin a really smooth, dewy finish. In fact, this product was inspired by that trend: The INKEY List cofounder Colette Laxton combines the brand’s Polyglutamic Acid Serum with her foundation.
Though the formula is white and creamy (as seen on my hand in the below picture), it rubs in seamlessly with little effort and no white cast thanks to a mix of chemical UV filters (avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene and ensulizole) that provide broad-spectrum protection. It feels lightweight, and though the brand says its suitable for all skin tones, I find it particularly beneficial for dry and/or dehydrated skin.
Key Ingredients:
Polyglutamic acid, squalane, glycerin, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene and ensulizole
What It’s Free From:
Oxybenzone and octinoxate
How to Use It:
Shake it up before using, as sunscreens tend to separate a little in the bottle. Like other SPFs, apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure, and don’t forget your neck (this is a nice formula to use on the backs of your hands too). It’s not water-resistant, so be sure to reapply if you’re sweating or swimming, etc.
Price/Where to Buy:
$15 sephora.com
