Speed Review: Ultraviolette Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF50+

I'm baaaack! I posted a poll on my Instagram and the general consensus was that a reignition of my blog, which I first started over a decade ago, would be welcomed... so after a much-too-long hiatus, here we are again! My plan is to focus on product reviews and I'll try to post a new review every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It seems fitting to kick things off with a review of one of my favourite products... my favourite SPF. It couldn't come at a better time either, with a recent furore splitting social media into two camps: the SPF devotees (where I sit) and those who are less keen, to varying degrees, with the most extreme making (unsubstantiated) claims that it's a dangerous product to use. I've heard many excuses over the years from those who don't use SPF daily, ranging from the fact that it's bad weather (the sun is still there, even when it may not seem like it and those harmful rays can penetrate!) to the arugment that their makeup contains SPF (this is typically a low rating and a sufficient amount to obtain the advertised level is unlikely to be applied in a makeup product). Often, people claim that they don't like the feeling of SPF on their skin (modern formulas have come a long way!) or that it breaks them out (this is more likely to be the result of not thoroughly cleansing at the end of the day). I strongly urge those who remain unconvinced to check out Ultraviolette, the brand which is making SPF cool and this is partly down to their packaging which features unapologetically bright colours (I love that this makes the products easy to find in a crowded washbag!). My favourite of the Ultraviolette products I've tried is Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF50+ and it seems I'm not alone, with this regularly topping the bestselling lists at the likes of Space NK.

The packaging clearly communicates what the product is and how to use it, reiterating the daily use message. I appreciate the high protection rating at SPF50+ and it is also broad spectrum, offering both UVA and UVB shields. It's a hybrid sunscreen and the description also claims that it protects against damaging blue light emitted from screens although I remain on the fence about this. Furthermore, the formula is infused with peptides and kakadu plum which is rich in vitamin C so provides the additional benefits of antioxidant protection to fight free radicals too. I feel that the packaging of Supreme Screen is far superior to that of the brand's other cult bestseller, Queen Screen which is presented in a glass bottle with pipette dispenser. I'll forever be biased towards tubes with pumps- so chic, hygienic and functional- but I also find the packaging to be better suited to travel than Queen Screen (although, SPF is for life not just for holidays!). The 50ml size is flight friendly too although it is now available in a supersized bottle if of interest. The packaging allows for controlled dispensing without wastage- don't forget that you need to apply sufficient product (2-3 fingers worth) to obtain the advertised SPF level. This is easy to do with Ultraviolette Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF50+ and I personally like to apply lots of thin layers. I find this best in terms of usage experience, allowing for easy absorption and also as it reassures me that I'm thoroughly covering my skin without missing areas. I find it layers well with other products too and I've never noticed any pilling. It is also effective as a primer before makeup... after all, SPF is fairly grippy as it's intended to remain on skin! Supreme Screen has quite a thick, cream texture (it's certainly not a lotion) but whilst it feels hydrating on the skin, it never feels heavy or uncomfortable. It's an elegant and modern formula. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and those with sensitive eyes, and I've never experienced any issues with it causing my acne prone skin to break out. On initial application, I sometimes notice a slight plastic scent but it's not particularly offensive and doesn't linger in any case. When dispensed, the cream has a very subtle tint but it offers no coverage. I don't notice any white cast but admittedly, I do have pale skin so can't comment on how this would measure up on darker complexions. As the name suggests and as aforementioned, it feels hydrating on the skin and in fact, in hotter weather I find that I can often forgo a separate moisturiser when using this on my combination skin. It simply leaves skin feeling soft and I trust the protection that this gives me. I absolutely love it. Yes, there are cheaper SPFs on the market but I'm very happy to pay £34 for this and have already repurchased countless times. I can't recommend it highly enough, especially if you're seeking a hydrating SPF.