ILIA has launched a new tinted mineral sunscreen, and I put it to the test to see how it performs. This product promises broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection with a lightweight, dewy finish. After wearing it for several days in various conditions, here's my honest assessment.
First Impressions and Application
The sunscreen comes in a sleek tube with a nozzle that dispenses the product easily. The texture is creamy but not thick, and it spreads smoothly over the skin. I used about a nickel-sized amount for my face, which is the recommended dose for adequate protection. The tint is available in several shades, and I found the medium shade blended well with my skin tone, leaving no white cast—a common issue with mineral sunscreens.
Performance and Wear Test
I wore the sunscreen for an entire day, including a two-hour outdoor walk. Initially, it gave a nice glow, but after a few hours, my combination skin felt slightly greasy in the T-zone. However, it did not clog my pores or cause breakouts. The SPF 30 protection held up well; I did not experience any sunburn. According to ILIA, the formula uses non-nano zinc oxide and is reef-safe.
One downside is that it requires reapplication every two hours if you're in direct sunlight, which can be tricky over makeup. I tried setting it with powder, but the dewy finish still returned after a few hours.
Comparison to Other Sunscreens
Compared to other tinted mineral sunscreens I've tried, like Supergoop!'s Glowscreen, ILIA's offering is less shimmery and more natural. It also feels lighter than La Roche-Posay's Anthelios tinted mineral sunscreen. The price point is mid-range at around $46 CAD for 30 ml, which is typical for clean beauty brands.
Final Verdict
Overall, ILIA's new tinted mineral sunscreen is a solid option for those with dry to normal skin who want a dewy finish and reliable SPF 30 protection. If you have oily skin, you may need to blot or powder throughout the day. It's a good choice for daily wear under makeup or on its own.
