Avène Mineral Sunscreen Multi-Defense Fluid SPF 50+

Most Helpful Critical Review

Just stopped using after years of only this

I'm a long-time Avène lover, but recently in preparation for potential import tariffs in the U.S., I've been trying to find U.S. brands that are good for sensitive skin. However, this sunscreen (and the one-of-a-kind Avène Cicalfate+) was going to be the one thing I continued using, regardless. Then..., they changed the formula slightly and reduced the fluid ounces offered from 1.7 to 1.3, which means I now need to buy two bottles every month to cover my face, back of the neck, throat, chest, and backs of the hands/my forearms if they're going to be uncovered—just once daily. That was upsetting enough. This new formulation also isn't as gentle nor as hydrating as the previous (although just as runny, which I never really cared about), and as someone with Sahara-dry skin that's also hyper sensitive, this no longer is my top choice. I have three bottles left and I intend to finish them, but I won't be repurchasing in the future. Still, due to chronic illness and other skin issues, I don't spend a lot of time out in the sun. For the past (I believe) 9-11 years, this has prevented sunburn. I'm a former Floridian, born and raised, and have lived in Seattle for almost 8 years. (Contrary to what people think, Seattle often feels brighter than the Tampa Bay are of Florida did.) And even with genetics not being on the winning side, I my skin looks younger than most of my peers—even younger women—without surgical, dermatological/laser, or injectable intervention. So, it works! (To note: I'm white and 25% Native American, but I look pink-yellow pasty.) I'm just no longer willing to pay what I consider a premium for a sunscreen product that has declined in quantity for the same price, as well as quality. Otherwise, even the new formula doesn't burn my eyes, which is nice. However, it does cause some burning sensation on areas of the skin that have been compromised. I have rosacea and a mast cell condition which often leaves me with even minor rashes or a disrupted skin barrier in places like my singular throat crease. Thankfully applying the Cicalfate+ cream resuscitates my skin, but this new formula is no longer compatible with an imperfect skin barrier like it used to be. I'm back on the market for a zinc oxide-only (100% non-chemical) sunscreen designed for sensitive, dry skin. Hopefully I won't eat my words on the cost factor, though. I remember looking for a sunscreen for _years_ before finally finding this, so here's hoping I can find something faster with a much greater understanding of ingredients, ingredient compositions and interactions, etc. (Previously purchased directly from Avène USA.)