Sunblock to achieve that matte-look holiday selfie

First of all, why sunblock and not sunscreen? Slightly different from sunscreen, sunblock sits on top of the skin and creates a barrier that blocks harmful UV rays. Sunscreen is absorbed into the skin and turns UV rays into non-damaging light waves. For this reason, sunblock is better universally for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Whichever one you choose to use, both have a nasty habit of creating an oily, unattractive, white cast sheen on our faces. Here’s what you can do to avoid that greasy look and snap amazing matte-look holiday selfies at your favourite sunny destination.

Choose a matte sunblock

Oil-free matte sunblock is the first step to achieving an overall matte look. To ensure the best application, prep the face beforehand. Wash with a cleanser to remove any oil or dirt build-up, then apply any serums or toners for oil control, followed by a moisturiser to seal everything in. Finally, apply sunblock as the last step in your skincare routine.

If you’re getting ready to go out, you can apply makeup over the sunblock. Matte sunblock works brilliantly as a primer too, helping to give a flawless look and balance the oils on your skin for a natural glow.

Look for oil-fighting ingredients

If you are prone to acne or oily skin, look for a matte sunblock that also contains niacinamide, a natural form of vitamin B that controls sebum levels and ups hydration. It works to strengthen the skin barrier and maintain moisture levels. Its anti-inflammatory effects also help to soothe and smooth out skin texture.

Avoid chemicals or irritants

There are certain chemicals and irritants present in a lot of skincare and which should be avoided as they can cause clogged pores, leading to oil build-up and acne. Always check the product label and consider passing on ones that contain any of these ingredients:

SLS – sodium lauryl sulfate strips the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated.

Parabens – putting these on your skin can elevate cellular damage caused by UV damage, cancelling out all that good work your sunblock is doing.

Reapply

No matter how high the level of SPF is in your sunblock, it needs to be reapplied at least every 2 hours, or after sweating or swimming. If you have put light makeup over your sunblock, you can blot it on using a makeup sponge. Using a setting spray after applying makeup and each time you reapply sunblock can help keep everything in place.

Our Serene SkinLab Sunblock is entirely natural, using zinc oxide as the active ingredient for blocking harmful UV rays. It contains niacinamide to control sebum and minimise the appearance of pores. It’s unique bright plus formula uses traditional Chinese herbs including peony root and pearl powder, to brighten skin complexion.