AMAZINC! Skincare - Mineral Sunscreen, Lip Balm and Mineral Shield

As regular readers will know we’re always preaching about sun awareness.  Particularly with the erosion of the ozone layer and the planet heating up… Today we’d like to talk about a mineral-based sunscreen and block. AMAZINC! Skincare is a sun care range that provides high protection and is made for those who have an active lifestyle and who want to indulge in a bit of surfing or other water-based fun.

This Czech brand AMAZINC! Skincare, launched in 2015 by Jan Kostelnik and Stepan Martinek, whose vision was to create a natural sunscreen and block that was not only functional but also kind to the environment.  What sets this apart from other suncare brands is that it has been created by a team of nature lovers who regularly hike in the mountains and surf the oceans – so they knew that there was a gap in the market and what was needed. We like that they have no nasties in their formulas, as we’ve found that many of the high street sun protection products have chemical formulations that are dangerous for marine life and corals (check out your regular sunscreen's ingredients here). These chemicals pollute playgrounds, mountains and oceans with compounds that destroy the environment. A quick run-through on the main chemical to look, oxybenzone is the one that harms marine life and is known as one of the most toxic ingredients in the cosmetic industry. This has proved to be deadly when in contact with marine life and wildlife in general, where It creates reef bleaching that causes the death of the coral. Something we didn’t know, is that non coated nanoparticles of zinc oxide or titanium oxide aren’t any better either! AMAZINC! ensures that these chemical compounds are not found in any of its products and helps to raise awareness around this. Their products are mainly vegan and also have plastic and chemical-free packaging (reusable aluminium bottles, tins and cardboard tubes). Also, as an environmentally aware company, they’re on a mission to help educate their customers too.

We tried the Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, which offers a high level of protection with only mineral filters and natural ingredients, making it a nature-friendly form of sun protection. The key ingredients include almond oil that protects the skin from the UV as well as reversing any damage. It also has jojoba oil a popular ingredient in natural sunscreen products with vitamin E which when combined with other antioxidants such as those found in olive oil, protects the skin from sun damage; these will stop skin dehydration or flaking. This product is also rich in zinc oxide, a topical skin product that is used as a protective coating also used for mild skin irritations or abrasions as it speeds up healing. Finally, the triticum vulgare germ oil here is to relieve dryness.  This natural mineral sunscreen has a subtle sweet almond fragrance. We used this as a one-off application, out sailing all day with hot sun and the reflections from the sea, and when we returned to land there wasn’t even the slightest bit of redness in sight! I would advise that this Is not suitable for those who are wishing to pose on the beach topping up their tan, as this Mineral Sunscreen does leave a white residue (from the zinc/titanium oxide). However, it’s perfect for the action-packed adventurer who just wants one application and to go.  This Mineral Sunscreen you can find in 150ml here for €24.95.

Next is their natural Lip Balm this is rich in natural emulsifiers which help to retain moisture, making it ideal dry or chapped lips. We found it very smooth to apply and unusually long-lasting. There’s jojoba oil, rich in vitamin B and E and essential minerals like zinc that will make your lips soft. The almond oil here will does wonders for the lips keeping them hydrated and rejuvenate. The antioxidant properties in the olive oil condition and protect lips from drying out. The texture is balm-like and waxy and the vanilla planifolia fruit extract not only adds to the fragrance and taste but has antioxidant benefits and skin-soothing agents. This Lip Balm does not contain sun protection – so please bear this in mind. It’s perfect for carrying in your pocket all year round to provide a lip pick-me-up. You can find it here in a generous 30g for €12.25.

Last but not least, is the Mineral Shield which has 17.5g of essential zinc cream that comes in four colours. This sunblock offers full UV protection and is easy to apply/remove and yet is highly water-resistant. They have perfected this formula with their Mineral Shield compound with a mix of zinc oxide, magnesium oxide and kaolin. The combination of these natural ingredients will provide nature-friendly and sustainable sun protection. They say it’s for applying to on the face and lips, we think it’s also ideal for covering up and protecting any suspicious moles or skin damage. We like that this Mineral Shield does not get washed away, it stays put until you wipe it off. The blend contains bee wax which works as a natural binder, stabiliser and skin-conditioner, and is often used as a topical, non-allergenic sunscreen ingredient to condition and repair. It also contains olive oil and lanolin (wool fat) so this product is not vegan! It’s a great little full sunblock, ideal to keep on hand in case you need some serious cover-up. You can find it here for €11.95. 

We’re impressed with this sun care range and certainly put it to full use. What would we order more of? Both the AMAZINC! Mineral Shield to dab on moles and the Lip Balm as we loved the taste and texture.

SELF - Boost of Protection Sunscreen SPF 30

The sun is now getting lower in the autumn sky, but this doesn’t mean that the UV rays are getting any weaker! We thought we’d review a few natural SPF products in the next few weeks, as some of you may be jetting away for a quick boost of Mediterranean sunshine. As regular readers will know, we’re big on our sun protection and always try to find some of the best and most natural products to suggest. We’ve been itching to try the natural skincare SELF who has its renowned SPF 30 Boost of Protection Sunscreen.

This natural skincare brand SELF hails from Belgium and launched in 2016 by Isabelle Ulenaers. Previously a psychologist, she now juggles her life between being a mother, wife and entrepreneur. The brand story started with her daughter, who has eczema and problematic skin. None of the prescriptive creams or so-called natural skincare worked. So, Ulenaers decided to take matters in her own hands, and SELF was born. The products are suitable for all skin types and are made from a list of natural and hypoallergenic ingredients. She personally oversees every formulation from the origin of the plant to the final product, and pushes her ideas to the limit, only using certified recyclable and sustainable packaging. We think that SELF is a safe, natural, ethical and transparent skincare. A multi-award winner; with Beauty Shortlist Awards in 2016, 2017 and 2019 and Natural Health International Beauty Awards in 2019. It is a vegan, cruelty-free and every product is gentle enough for even pregnant women and babies. All SELF products are free from parabens, artificial colours and odours and other synthetic components. They chose to work with recycled materials for and currently use plastic components such as polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The Boost of Protection Sunscreen SPF30 a powerful and moisturising sunscreen, made with 100% vegan ingredients. We like that it offers optimal protection from the sun while also maintaining the moisture in the skin. Developed primarily for sensitive skin, this water-resistant sun lotion protects against UVA and UVB rays. It is very reef and environmentally friendly and contains euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax which helps reduce the appearance the stretch marks and signs of ageing. The avocado oil has a high percentage of vitamin E, as well as potassium, lecithin, and many other nutrients boosting in collagen levels. Which in turn, accelerates the healing process of issues like sunburn. The sesame seed oil blocks up to 75% of UV radiation and will shield and protect. The freshness of cucumber extract soothes and alleviates any pain from sunburn. It is rich in minerals, potassium and sulphur, and these ingredients cool the skin and keeping it refreshed. Finally, theobroma grandiflorum seed butter will absorb damaging UVA / UVB rays offering natural sun protection. The other ingredients such are coconut,  macadamia (palmitoleic acid), Argan oils are all full of antioxidants, vitamin E and essential fatty acids all of which are incredibly hydrating. The shea butter, has vitamins A, D and E and allantoin, an excellent moisturiser and protector against dehydration. These ingredients work as skin firming agents and is a UV protector. Then there’s aloe vera known for soothing burns, healing and boosting and protecting. Finally, there are essential oils with mandarin and geranium. Mandarin helps with both dry and oily skin, the geranium has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and cleansing properties and is remarkably effective against fungal skin infections. We love that this Boost of Protection Sunscreen is water-resistant, pH neutral and leaves no white residue. And that they claim that it is 100% safe for all sensitive skins, even for those having chemotherapy. I’ve been using this throughout the summer and it’s light, absorbs quickly, and has a very subtle natural fragrance. It’s easy to use, plus if I feel the need for applying foundation, it works brilliantly as a primer under makeup. Would I buy more? Absolutely! See here to purchase your 100ml bottle for €38.00.

Inspira: Med Anti Ageing Sun Protection

Who’s wearing sunscreen today? We hope that it’s all of you! We at The Amazing Blog are very sun leery, particularly with this unpredictable UK summer weather. You can leave home in the morning when it’s overcast and then find yourself stranded at midday in full sun with no SPF and very little shade! That’s why today we want to bring you one of our #amazingfinds with a favourite solution-based skincare brand and their reliable SPF (and after-sun) for face or body. Say hello again to Inspira Cosmetics with their Med Anti Aging Sun Protection. We couldn’t resist trying this range after hearing that they won the LuxLife 2019 Health Beauty & Wellbeing Award here for this Anti Ageing Sun Protection range.

Inspira Cosmetics are based in Aachen and were founded in 2000. They’re known for their solution-based skincare and have a special motto of ‘maximum effect, but as natural as possible’. True trailblazers in the world of skincare, they are leaders in skin technology with natural and biotech active ingredients. As regular readers will know, we’ve already shared with you some of our favourite products here.

They kindly sent us both the Anti-Aging Sun Guard Spray SPF30  and Anti-Aging Sun Guard Spray SPF50. These SPF Sprays are quickly absorbed, with no white residue, non-greasy and have the added bonus of being water-repellent. The key ingredient in their suncare range is the natural active called Ectoin®. This active is obtained from microorganisms that live in extreme environments (e.g. in geysers, salt lakes or the Arctic). This ingredient increases the barrier effect on the skin as it protects it from the damaging effects of the sun and stressful environmental factors related to UV light or pollutants thanks to its antioxidant ability. It also serves as an emollient on the skin and in cosmetic formulas. We found that these two SPF Sprays work as excellent primers under make-up as well as a solo moisturiser/sun protection. We cannot stress enough the importance of wearing a strong SPF. The Ectoin® here contains anti-inflammatory properties and stabilises the skin cells, protecting them from UVA and UVB radiation. If you want an advanced SPF all-in-one moisturiser/primer/sun cream, then these Anti-Aging Sun Guard Sprays in SPF30 or SPF50 are for you! These Sun Guard Sprays contain karanja oil (AKA as pongamia oil) which is obtained from the Indian beech tree. This has soothing properties which also help to slow down the premature ageing process and shields the skin from the sun with its high UV absorption. Like us, you may wish to apply this Sun Guard Spray first thing in the morning under your make up. However, we do strongly recommend reapplying repeatedly if you are exposed directly to sunlight or on a beach or swimming.  We love the clean and subtle floral scent and can guarantee, that if your skin is anything like ours, then it’ll remain dewy and protected throughout the day. Both are 150ml the SPF30 retails at 28.76 Euros here and the SPF50 retails at 32.17 Euros here.

Finally, let’s move onto their After Sun. They kindly sent us the Immediate Soothing After Sun Foam which is mild creamy and crafted specifically for soothing over-exposed or sun-damaged skin. It immediately calms irritated skin thanks to the Ectoin®, panthenol, pumpkin seed extract and, seawater. The panthenol also called provitamin B5 which has a calming effect on the skin – again it increases skin hydration and creates a protective barrier. The pumpkin seed extract is rich in fatty acids such as omega 3 and 6 and also vitamin E, zinc, and other antioxidants that help to keep the skin moisturised for a more youthful appearance. We all know how vital water is for humans, being the most important molecule for the body and skin. What better way to include this ingredient, than by using seawater. Used since ancient times it holds therapeutic qualities and gives a regenerative and mineralising effect to the skin. This gentle foam also contains glycerine the famous water magnet and last but not least aloe vera, which relieves burns and itching thanks to the cooling effect - like a breath of cold air on the skin. This can be bought in 150ml here for 28.76 Euros.

All the range can be used on the face and body and we consider them to be an everyday essential, not just as a one-off holiday wonder. So, if you are still self-isolating or on lockdown at home, you might have forgotten just how intense the sun can be in the park, on your balcony or in the garden. By applying either of these SPF products daily will certainly ensure no more red faces!

SOS - SPF 50 Sun Serum

Despite only being allowed outside our homes for a limited amount of time, at The Amazing Blog we know how important it is to protect skin from the dangers of the sun. Today we're talking about SOS SPF 50 Sun Serum where they use only simple, effective non-irritating and simple ingredients. Regular readers may remember that we wrote about their hero product the gentle cooling and repairing SOS Serum here.

Scientist and chemist, Bruce Green founded SOS Serum and has contributed to the formulations of many cosmetic brands in the UK & North America, and he also sits on several EU advisory committees. With a long dedication to the skincare industry, although he is now semi-retired, his fascination with skincare still continues, particularly with his understanding of skin sensitivity which is a common problem for most people. Which is why he set out to focus and create on his own range of skincare with this issue in mind. All of the SOS products are made in the UK and are cruelty-free and vegan.  

Based on science, this unique SOS SPF50 Serum formula is significantly higher with the SPF and has fewer ingredients than its rivals. Not forgetting to mention that in our experience it's hard to find a high SPF sunscreen that is designed for all skin types, including extremely sensitive or eczema-prone. This is where SOS SPF 50 steps in, it’s made primarily with a combination of mineral-based filters (zinc oxide & titanium dioxide) and plant stem cells, which protect the skin from the harmful rays. With its key active ingredients such as soybean stem cells to help reduce wrinkles and increase the skin's firmness and vitamin E to soothes and calms, these two essential ingredients attack free radicals on the skin, whilst protecting skin from further sun damage. 

SOS SPF 50 Serum has a non-greasy and white-free application suitable for the face or body and all ages (including children), the product is also fragrance-free, without parabens, SLS, or mineral oil. Sun protection isn't the only benefit; with the moisturising hyaluronic acid (vegetable - low molecularweight) it can help eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, bites, wind-chapped and sun-damaged skin or allergic flare-ups. The product blends directly onto the skin and without a trace and with the leaf extracts combined with peppermint provide immediate relief upon application.  We recommend using this product in the morning for day-long protection, it's easy to use and perfect for providing good moisturising relief. The retail price for the 50ml serum is £15.00 and found here. 

There are three other products in this line such as the SOS H2O Day Serum with anti-ageing properties, the SOS Protect a broad spectrum hand sanitiser and SOS Serum (which we previously reviewed) for skin repair.

Dr Russo - Once A Day Sun Protection SPF 30 & SPF 50 Invisible Face Gel

Good skin starts with prevention, and here at The Amazing Blog we’re always on the lookout for the best SPF and suncare. Today we’ve got one of our #amazingfinds, meet Dr Russo’s Sun Protection Invisible Face Gel ideal for protecting the complexion and combatting harmful rays when out and about. 

The founder Dr Luca Russo is renowned internationally for his work in reversing sun damage and premature ageing. He is a London-based cosmetic and dermatologic surgeon who lecturers on skin rejuvenation. This sun protection gel features Dr Russo’s innovative long-wear SPF technology that creates a force-field on the skin to deflect the harmful sun’s rays. His philosophy is to protect the skin with broad-spectrum SPF 30 and SPF 50 sunscreens and potent antioxidants throughout the day, followed by reversal agents that stimulate new collagen production and repair all signs of photo-ageing. The beneficial ingredients are antioxidants, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and ferulic acid. All of these repair existing signs of DNA damage, inhibit tyrosinase, help to maintain elastin and collagen levels, reduce glycation of proteins and soothes inflammation, so the skin becomes stronger, more luminous and resilient. These ingredients also help repair existing signs of damage, as well as stopping the production of melanin which causes dark spots. The product is free from PABAs, parabens, artificial fragrance and compatible with all sensitive skin types.

The formula is light-weight, non-greasy, and does not leave a chalky film on the skin, making it perfect to wear everyday under makeup. Protect, moisturise and repair your complexion with a single sweep with this once a day application.  It keeps skin protected and is waterproof and sweatproof for up to 80 minutes. The product comes in SPF 30 and SPF 50 variants, to apply, use the unique click brush applicator, sweeping the product over the face and neck area. It retails for £26 for 15ml and can be purchased here. In a 15ml bottle, this is the perfect size for your handbag or to take on a bike ride.