The face product here is Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50; Unseen Sunscreen Body SPF 40 is a separate product specifically formulated for the body. Supergoop describes the face version as invisible, weightless and scentless, while the body version is a velvety gel recommended for dry skin as well as other skin types.34

Will Unseen moisturize dry skin enough?

For dry facial skin, choose your moisturizer for moisture and your sunscreen for protection. A weightless finish is a texture preference, not a complete dry skin routine, however impressive the disappearing act. Cream sunscreens are particularly suited to dry skin and the face; Unseen's invisible finish is a reason to consider it if you prefer that feel, not a reason to skip moisturizer.12

Look for a moisturizer with ceramides, which strengthen the skin's protective barrier, hyaluronic acid or squalane. Apply moisturizer within five minutes of washing, and moisturize more than once daily if needed. These are general dry skin steps, not special directions for Unseen.2

How to fit Unseen into your morning routine

  1. 1Wash gently with cooler rather than hot water. Avoid scrubbing dry patches, and pat your skin dry.
  2. 2Apply your moisturizer promptly after washing. Choose products made for the face, and favor fragrance free products.
  3. 3Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors. General facial sunscreen guidance is to use at least one teaspoon, with coverage for your neck and ears too.
  4. 4Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors. After swimming or sweating, follow the directions on your particular bottle.
12

Use sunscreen every day you will be outside, including cloudy days. Check your exact Unseen package for broad spectrum protection, meaning protection against both UVA and UVB rays, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. Add shade and protective clothing rather than asking sunscreen to do all the work.15

What should you expect?

Expect the face SPF 50's advertised invisible, weightless finish, rather than treating the product as a remedy for persistent flaking. Supergoop has tested this version for improved makeup wear, but that is a different benefit from replenishing dry skin's moisture.3

What if you mean Unseen Body SPF 40?

Unseen Body SPF 40 is designed to help retain moisture on skin prone to dryness and leaves no white cast. Supergoop describes a smooth gel with a natural finish. Unseen Body SPF 40 is specifically formulated for the body, so the shared name is not an invitation to give it a promotion to face cream.4

Apply the body version generously and evenly 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating, immediately after towel drying and at least every two hours. Do not use it on damaged or broken skin; stop use and ask a doctor if a rash occurs.4

When should dry skin change your choice?

Scentless is not the same as fragrance free. For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are another option to consider. Avoid exfoliating away persistent flakes: dry skin is extra sensitive, and exfoliation can cause further damage. Seek medical care if dryness does not improve, stays pink, looks wet and red, or itches enough to disrupt daily activities.12

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen for oily skin

Gel sunscreens are generally suited to oily complexions. For oily facial skin, look for products labeled oil free and noncomedogenic, meaning designed not to clog pores, rather than choosing on texture alone. Keep moisturizer after cleansing even if your skin is oily.16

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1Sunscreen FAQsaad.org
  2. 2Tips for Getting Rid of Dry Skin on Your Facehealth.clevelandclinic.org
  3. 3Unseensupergoop.com
  4. 4Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Body SPF 40supergoop.com
  5. 5Sunscreens: A Complete Overviewdermnetnz.org
  6. 6How to control oily skinaad.org