Hero Cosmetics sunscreen: what it is and how to use it

What is Hero Cosmetics Force Shield sunscreen?

This guide covers the US Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30, sold in a 50 ml tube for $19.99 on Hero's US website. Hero calls the sunscreen Superlight and the range Force Shield, so the tube comes with more than one introduction. The sunscreen has a sheer green tint and a gel cream texture that Hero describes as lightweight, hydrating and not greasy.12

The active sunscreen ingredient is zinc oxide at 17.53%. The formula also contains glycerin, ectoin, bisabolol, vitamin E and botanical extracts, including green tea. Butyloctyl salicylate appears among the inactive ingredients; zinc oxide is the only listed active sunscreen ingredient. Hero labels the product fragrance free, silicone free and noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. That makes it a product to consider for skin prone to acne, rather than a promise of no breakouts.13

What protection does SPF 30 give you?

SPF measures protection against sunburn and primarily reflects protection against UVB rays. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB. UVA contributes to early skin aging, while UVB is the main cause of sunburn. Mineral sunscreens absorb UV rays and also reflect them; they do not work only by bouncing sunlight away.456

SPF 30 meets the American Academy of Dermatology's minimum SPF recommendation. Correctly applied SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, not all of them. Higher SPF offers slightly more UVB protection, but neither a higher number nor a mineral formula removes the need to reapply. SPF is not a multiplier for how many hours you can stay outside.46

How do you apply Hero sunscreen?

1. 1Apply moisturizer first. Hero says Superlight adds hydration but should not replace moisturizer.
2. 2Wait at least one minute after moisturizer. Hero directs you to apply Superlight as the last step of your skincare routine.
3. 3Apply sunscreen generously to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors. General face application guidance is at least one teaspoon; cover your neck and ears too.
4. 4Cover other exposed areas, including your hands, chest and tops of your feet. Use an SPF 30 or higher lip balm for your lips.
5. 5Reapply at least every two hours when outdoors. For swimming or sweating, use a sunscreen labelled water resistant and follow its reapplication directions.

For full body coverage, an average adult or child needs at least one ounce of sunscreen, about enough to fill a shot glass. That is general sunscreen guidance, not a face only dose. Spread sunscreen over all uncovered skin rather than concentrating it on the areas that usually burn. If your scalp is exposed, protect it with sunscreen or a hat.45

Can you wear it swimming or exercising?

Hero's product page says to reapply after swimming or sweating, but the Force Shield Drug Facts directions specifically tell you to use a water resistant sunscreen for those activities. Follow that distinction rather than treating reapplication as a substitute for water resistance.13

Water resistant sunscreen labels specify either 40 or 80 minutes of tested protection during swimming or sweating. No sunscreen is waterproof, and all sunscreens eventually wash off. Check the replacement product's label for its water resistance period and when to reapply; an SPF number alone does not tell you either.4

Will it leave a white cast or work under makeup?

Hero describes a sheer green tint that blends into skin and balances the appearance of redness immediately. In Hero's consumer testing, 94% of users agreed the product did not look chalky after seven days of use. Hero also markets the finish as a light primer, giving one layer two job titles. Expect a lightweight finish, but judge the cast on your own skin rather than assuming the green tint will suit every skin tone.1

The green tint is not the same as a skin tone tint containing iron oxide. Iron oxide tinted sunscreens can help protect against visible light that worsens dark spots, especially in darker skin tones. Hero's listed formula contains no iron oxide, so choose a sunscreen with that ingredient if visible light protection is your priority.16

Who should be careful?

Dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens such as zinc oxide for sensitive skin. Still, check the full ingredient list for anything you already know you react to. Do not apply Force Shield to damaged or broken skin. Keep it out of your eyes, rinse with water if it gets into them, and stop using it and ask a doctor if a rash develops.36

Ask a doctor before applying sunscreen to a child younger than six months. For older children, follow the Drug Facts directions. If you take medication, ask your healthcare professional whether it increases sun sensitivity and whether you need additional sun precautions. Keep sunscreen out of children's reach; if swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.345

Do you need it in winter?

Use sunscreen on exposed skin when going outside throughout the year, including cloudy days. UVA rays can pass through windows, and cold weather does not remove UV exposure. Hero recommends the same moisturizer then sunscreen order in winter. Sunscreen works alongside shade, protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Limit sun exposure especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; sunscreen alone cannot completely block UV radiation.25

How should you store it, and when should you replace it?

Keep the tube away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Outdoors, store sunscreen in shade or wrap the container in a towel rather than leaving it exposed to the sun. Discard sunscreen after its printed expiration date. If there is no expiration date, discard it three years after purchase. If you cannot tell how old the tube is, replace it.45