Sunplay Super Block SPF130
We're brainwashed to think that the higher the SPF number, the better. Well sure, higher SPF means that you get more protection, but did you know that the protection is not increased proportionally? "SPF 15" means that you will not burn/damage under the sun 15 times longer than when you are without it. "SPF 30" means that you can stay 30 times longer without damaging your skin.
Says the American Melanoma Foundation: "Consumers need to be aware that SPF protection does not increase proportionally with an increased SPF number. While an SPF of 2 will absorb 50% of ultraviolet radiation, an SPF of 15 absorbs 93% and an SPF of 34 absorbs 97%." Read up more about sun protection here and here.
All things considered, an SPF of 30 to 50 is already a good number for daily use. Any number higher than 50 is just a little extra - it's not a necessity. So you don't really have to HAVE an SPF130 sunblock like the one from Sun Play. But it would be nice if you did.
The Sunplay Super Block with SPF130 (P349) is a white fluid with the consistency of water. It's a little sticky and thick when you first spread it around, but it dries completely into a sort of powdery finish. It's easy to work with and there is no white cast after it dries.
I found it difficult to use during my first couple of tries. I didn't read Sunplay's direction on how to use this product so I insisted on squirting the liquid in my palms and spreading it to my skin from there. Apparently, the best way to use it is to draw a line on your limbs (that explains the pointy spout of the bottle) and then work from there.
I love that there is absolutely no stickiness or greasiness whenever I wear it. It's very comfortable on skin, plus it has a very faint, almost non-existent sunblock smell! That's a huge plus for me because I like wearing perfumes. Before, whenever I wear sunblock, I just give up spritzing my favorite scent since I smell weird if I do. Now that's not an issue. Other good points are: it's water-resistant and travel-friendly because of the convenient size.
Two caveats with this Sunplay sunblock: it's expensive, and it's a bit drying since it's alcohol-based (I think ha. No ingredients stated). Even if I use moisturizer beforehand, this sunblock still dries up my skin a little. It's not a major problem for me, but dry-skinned ladies may prefer something more emollient.
It's P349 in Watsons for a small 31mL bottle. One bottle should be good for maybe two weeks usage if you're stingy.
Overall, the Sunplay Super Block SPF130 is a good product. I recommend you use it only if you expect to be subjected to intense sun exposure for long periods of time! It's a breeze to re-apply when you're already out of the house.
