Innisfree Daily UV Defense SPF 36: what to know

What is in the SPF 36 formula?

The active sunscreen ingredients are avobenzone 2.5%, homosalate 7.0% and octisalate 4.3%. These make it a chemical sunscreen, rather than a mineral sunscreen using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. The formula also contains green tea, centella asiatica, sunflower seed oil and glycerin. Fragrance, limonene and linalool appear in the ingredient list.12

What finish should you expect?

Innisfree labels the SPF 36 lotion "no white cast" and "glowy finish." The finish is described as glowy, so the tube is not applying for a job as blotting paper. Choose it if that is the finish you want, rather than expecting a matte sunscreen.1

Is SPF 36 enough?

SPF 36 exceeds the recommended minimum of SPF 30. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays, which contribute to skin aging and sunburn. No sunscreen filters out all UVB rays, so sunscreen belongs alongside shade, protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Limit time in direct sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.23

SPF measures sunburn protection, not how many hours you can stay outside. SPF 36 does not mean 36 hours of protection or permission to skip reapplication. The benefit is protection during sun exposure, not a visible result you wait weeks to see. Used correctly with other sun protection measures, broad spectrum sunscreen helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging.3

How do you apply it?

1. 1Apply sunscreen before going outdoors, allowing 15 minutes before sun exposure.
2. 2Use enough to cover exposed skin thoroughly. General dermatology guidance is at least 1 teaspoon for the face and about 1 ounce for most adults' exposed skin, with more needed depending on body size.
3. 3Rub sunscreen thoroughly into the skin. Cover the ears, neck, hairline, hands and any other skin not covered by clothing, while keeping sunscreen out of the eyes.
4. 4Reapply at least every two hours when outdoors. For swimming or sweating, choose a water resistant sunscreen and follow its reapplication directions, including after toweling off.

Use sunscreen when going outside even on cloudy days and in winter. A morning application is not enough for an entire day outdoors. Protect exposed lips with an SPF 30 or higher lip balm; for an exposed scalp, apply sunscreen or wear a wide brimmed hat.4

Can you wear it swimming or exercising?

For swimming or a workout that makes you sweat, choose a sunscreen labeled water resistant. Look for a stated duration of 40 or 80 minutes, which describes tested protection during swimming or sweating. No sunscreen is waterproof. Even a water resistant sunscreen needs reapplication every two hours on dry skin, and after toweling off.23

Is it a good choice for sensitive skin?

If fragrance has irritated your skin before, choose a fragrance free sunscreen instead. Fragrances and other sunscreen ingredients can cause irritation or allergic reactions. For sensitive skin or a history of sunscreen reactions, a fragrance free mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is a better starting point. Reacting to one sunscreen does not mean you will react to every sunscreen.5

Do not apply the SPF 36 lotion to damaged or broken skin. If it gets into your eyes, rinse with water. Stop using it and ask a doctor if a rash occurs. Keep it out of children's reach; if swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Ask a doctor before use on a child under six months.1

A sunscreen reaction can involve itching, swelling, blisters or hives, and can begin within minutes or be delayed for up to a day. Difficulty breathing or feeling faint during a reaction requires immediate emergency care. If several sunscreens repeatedly cause problems, a healthcare provider can help investigate with allergy or skin sensitivity testing.5

Is SPF 36 the same as the current SPF 50+?

The current US range includes a separate SPF 50+ lotion, so "Daily UV Defense" is a family name, not a formula identification system. Match your tube's SPF and Drug Facts panel before using directions or ingredient information from another version. The current US lineup also includes a serum, a mineral sunscreen and a stick.367

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

Keep sunscreen away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Outdoors, keep the container in the shade or wrap it in a towel. Replace sunscreen past its expiration date. If there is no expiration date, discard it three years after purchase; if you do not know how old it is, discard it rather than relying on it for protection.3