I'm not sure if you knew, but up to 70% of skin aging is caused by sun rays! That's incredibly shocking, and not only is it the sun in summer, but all year round, so one of the best ways to avoid premature aging and skin spots is to use daily sunscreen.

Nowadays we have protection creams which have been formulated to be used every day, they've even been given the trendy name of URBAN sunscreens! Let's check out Shiseido's...

What does it do?

Let's see what is special about this urban sunscreen: it is a very light sunscreen which has been formulated for face and body to protect skin from UVA and UVB rays. Not only that, it has been made to provide hydration and protection against dryness and air pollution. 

The idea is great, a lightweight sunscreen which is comfortable to use daily and also protects from other aggressors and keeps our skin hydrated. 

It's water resistant for 40 minutes but it can easily be removed with daily cleanser. You're supposed to use it before sun exposure, applying a generous amount of cream.

Composition

Shiseido Urban Environment UV Protection Cream Plus SPF50 is an oil-free formula which is great for us oily gals and it does not contain oxybenzone or parabens. 

It has a Hydro-Restoring Complex which contains moisturizing amino acids to provide continuous hydration, it also has a small amount of antioxidants but not really enough to provide wide benefits. This cream contains Scutellaria Baicalensis which helps to promote the appearance of youthful-looking skin. 

It does contain alcohol in quite a large amount so that it's easier to work with and it has a light floral fragrance so you must take that into account if you have sensitive skin. It hasn't had any negative effects on me though.

Packaging

Shiseido is an high end Japanese cosmetics brand and the packaging is beautifully designed. The cream is contained simple white tube with silver lettering and accents, as well as the box. 

It is very easy to use as you only need to flip off the lid to reach the nozzle. The product is released by squeezing the tube which is slightly soft. 

It doesn't take up too much room and as it has the flip-off lid and it's slightly flattened it is really travel friendly!

Formulation

The Shiseido Urban Environment sunscreen is a white and thick cream which spreads easily and doesn't leave a white cast on the skin.  It's supposed to be good enough to use as a makeup base, providing a moisturized smooth finish to work with. 

If you have dry skin it will be a great addition to your skincare as it provides sunscreen and protection from free radicals and it also acts as a moisturizer. If you have oily skin such as I, it may not be your favourite sunscreen. 

As soon as you apply the cream you're left with a very shiny face, which dries down in about 30 to 35 minutes. It hasn't made me break out but if you apply makeup over the sunscreen you will feel the finish is much more greasy than you'd like. 

Overall

I really wish I could recommend this sunscreen entirely; if you have dry skin it might just be the best daily protection for you. But I believe that there are lighter sunscreens which are more appropriate for all skin types. 

As I have oily skin, this sunscreen makes me look even shinier than usual and feels noticeably greasy. I'm sure that it's providing the daily protection I need, but at £30 for 50 ml it's quite pricey and there are cheaper options which will work better on my skin type.

Which daily sunscreen do you use?