Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50 PA++++

The Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50 PA++++ is a water based, lightweight, everyday sun protector for sensitive skin that leaves no greasiness or white cast. It offers a high SPF and PA level to guard skin against UVA and UVB radiation.
 

 

The most concentrated of the sunscreen ingredients and the protection hero of the formula is quite a mouthful, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, (DHHB). DHHB is an oil soluble, high absorption UVA filter with good photostability which minimises overexposure of skin to ultraviolet radiation. Research findings indicate that a neglible amount will actually absorb past the upper layers of the stratum corneum. Meanwhile, Ethylhexyl Triazone (ET) is also oil soluble, enhancing water resistance. It is an effective UVB filter which also displays excellent photostability and high absorption, helping to achieve a high sun protection factor (SPF).

Dicaprylyl Carbonate is one of several emollients in the formula, often used in sunscreen to enhance its spreadability. From a tactile perspective, it has a similar effect as a silicone, leaving a dry, soft and comfortable finish. From a functional angle, it provides a protective film that assists to enhance the lipid layer, trapping in moisture. Other emollients that support this function include Dibutyl Adipate, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene and Caprylyl Glycol. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene additionally helps with the water resistance of the product.

Third in concentration, Butylene Glycol assists to increase penetration of other ingredients and hence boost their effectiveness. Additionally, it can help to thin the product consistency which might be useful in achieving the soft airy texture. It also displays humectant properties so does all this while also drawing moisture from the air back into the skin cells, adding support to more prominent ingredients such as Glycerin.

Some well respected ingredients are included to address skin tone, moisture and texture. B group vitamins are well represented. Niacinamide, Vitamin B3, helps to brighten skin by inhibiting melanin production and easing hyperpigmentation to improve uneven tone while Panthenol (provitamin B5), also effectively increases water content to replenish the skin. The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid is known as Sodium Hyaluronate (HA). It helps to hydrate the skin through an ability to bind to water and fill the spaces between connective skin fibres, achieving a plumping effect.

Notable anti-ageing and restorative ingredients also feature. Adenosine has proven anti-wrinkle benefits due to its ability to energize skin’s surface, helping it to look smoother and younger. As it is naturally present in the body, it is a beneficial for all skin types. Beta-Glucan is a naturally occurring polysaccharide sugar derived from yeast or oats. It promotes natural self-protecting and repairing capabilities in the skin. Due to its high molecular weight it has good water-binding capacity and so additionally contributes moisturizing effects. In-vitro tests have shown it to be able to stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Sea Buckthorn Oil is a super skin food comprising Vitamins C and E, folic acid, carotenoids, omega fatty acids and flavonoids. These amazing components give it the ability to reduce wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation and photoageing as well as stimulate collagen production. It is good for acne as it helps to keep pores clean.

Furthermore, a whole host of emulsifiers are included for product fusion, helping to keep the formula consistent and smooth.
 

 

Water (Aqua), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Butylene Glycol, Dibutyl Adipate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Silica, Cetearyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Sorbitan Stearate, Panthenol, Beta-Glucan, Disodium EDTA, Citrus Junos Fruit Extract, Adenosine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Allantoin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil
 

 

The Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence is elegantly presented in a plastic white tube with chrome twist on cap and fine opening for dispensing which is sealed when new.
 

 

The safety rating of this product as reported by both the CosDNA and EWG resources is excellent, all components considered a non-hazard.
 

 

Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and at the end of your skincare routine.
 

The Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence has a very slight scent.
 

An 80ml tube of the Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence costs USD$23.00.
 

The Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream is available online from reputable stores such as Wishtrend, Yes Style and iHerb.
 

The sunscreen must be used within 12 months of opening. Given the printed expiration date on the tube, I estimate it has a shelf life of 3 years.
 

 

The first thing I noticed about this product is the size. Most Korean sunscreens tend to be no more than 50-60ml in volume. The 80ml tube is perfect as it lasts a little longer, sunscreen supplies not requiring continuous replenishing. Regarding other aspects of presentation, the tube is typical of the Klairs Freshly Juiced Line, clean with silver highlights. The packaging is great. A small opening on the nozzle assures the sunscreen doesn’t escape upon dispensing while also delivering a hygienic solution. Its narrow tube width and plastic casing makes it easy to slip into a handbag without adding bulk or spillage risk, ensuring even at a larger size, it is still highly portable.

In appearance, the product is off-white in colour and displays the viscosity of a light cream. It’s not thick like many other sunscreens and even lighter than some moisturisers. The natural scent is fresh and somewhat herbal, achieved without added fragrance. There are a couple of essential oils present at low concentrations which likely contribute to this but may also cause problems for those with sensitivities. Personally, I enjoy the freshness that they bring.

The product offers the highest available protection rate for both UVA and UVB radiation, PA++++ and SPF50 respectively. Without lab conditions, I am unable to verify this although have no reason to doubt it.
 

This UV Essence glides on effortlessly without tugging or drag. It is extremely lightweight and airy, just as the product name suggests. There is no need to work this into the skin as it sinks in instantly without leaving any hint of residue. The finish is near matte with perhaps the slightest translucent glow which achieves a healthy look. There is no oiliness, greasiness or tackiness. There is no white cast. It plays well with makeup layered over the top although I like to let it sit for just a few minutes before adding foundation. By then, no sign of the UV essence remains and the skin’s response is the same as if it wasn’t applied beforehand at all. I tested this by using my regular foundation over clean skin on the left of my face, and over the UV essence over the right. There was no observable difference.

Another aspect of this sunscreen that I really appreciate is that it doesn’t adversely affect the eyes. No stinging! As such, I apply it over my eyelids, literally covering my entire face, excluding my lips. Furthermore, all the ingredients are rated safe by both the CosDNA and EWG resources.

The Freshly Juiced Line is said to brighten dull and sensitive skin with effective vitamins. It does contain Niacinamide primarily for that reason. However, in the few weeks that I used this sunscreen, I didn’t notice tone changes, although I also use other layers that contain this ingredient which I consider effective brightening products. Perhaps it would have been noticeable had I not already been addressing this skin concern with alternative products.

The formula also contains a lot of hydrating and moisturising components. Their effect is noticeable as this UV Essence applies more like a day moisturising cream with sun protection rather than the other way around.
 

In summary, this product does fulfil its objectives. It is a low irritant sun essence as claimed with a safe composition, making it suitable for all skin types including sensitive. It provides high broad spectrum protection without white cast and is also light and fresh without being sticky. Application can be full body, although I prefer to use it as a face sunscreen due to its elegance and gentle effectiveness. I will definitely continue to use this and plan on repurchasing it. It comes highly recommended.
 

Wishtrend website
Dicaprylyl Carbonate Truth In Aging
Butylene Glycol The Dermatology Review
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate Drug Bank
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Truth In Aging
Quantification of Sunscreen Ethylhexyl Triazone in Topical Skin-Care Products by Normal-Phase TLC/Densitometry Anna W. Sobanska & Jaroslaw Pyzowski
Beta-Glucan Making Cosmetics
Sodium Hyaluronate Truth In Aging
Sea Buckthorn Berries, the Superfood for Your Skin AnneMarie Skin care
Sea Buckthorn Truth In Aging

Please read in context with my disclaimer.
 
This product was provided to me free of charge by Wishtrend for review. This post only includes my honest opinion and experience of this product and is in no way influenced by Wishtrend, Klairs, any of its representatives, stockists or any other third party.