'I'm fussy with face SPF and my new factor 50 daily essential is now 20% off'

It's a tale as old as time and a sentence that's often repeated in the beauty world - wearing SPF every day is a must. Yes, even on cloudy days. Those who haven't heard it enough, this is because the sun emits harmful UV rays that can damage skin, in turn leading to premature ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

But, finding said SPF is quite the task, as there are a fair few boxes to tick if it's going to be a product effective and comfortable enough to be worn on the daily. My top three priorities when it comes to an SPF is that it must feel weightless, be able to be worn comfortably under makeup, and not irritate or cause redness.

Just like finding a favourite mascara, as a beauty writer, I've tried and tested many facial SPF products over the years, with some finding their way into my regime and others not making the cut. Premium skincare and wellness brand ESPA'sProtect & Brighten Daily Skin Shield SPF 50 is my latest go-to - and it's now on sale at LookFantastic for £40 thanks to 20% off.

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How does the ESPA Skin Shield work?

Every time we step outside, come rain or shine, our skin is exposed to UVA/UVB (ultraviolet radiation) from the sun, and pollution. Not wearing SPF protection leaves skin vunerable to the damaging effects these rays can have - which is where the ESPA Daily Skin Shield comes in.

ESPA's Protect & Brighten Daily Skin Shield SPF 50 is formulated with UVA/UVB filters, offering broad daily sunscreen protection against harmful rays. It also boasts a number of other skin-loving ingredients, working in union to defend, protect and nourish.

One of these ingredients is Arabian Cotton, an antioxidant that protects against sun damage. Marine Exopolysaccharide stimulates epidermal renewal, for smoother skin, Beta-Carotene (derived from Marine Bamboo) defends against free radicals and Chinese Butterfly Blush protects against visible signs of ageing.

As well as working to protect the skin from the sun, the daily skin shield utilises Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and Marine Algae Blend helping the skin appear brighter and more toned.

How do you use ESPA Skin Shield?

No one wants to slather sun cream on their face every morning, especially when the sun isn't even shining, so a lightweight formula that gives the same protection is essential. A skincare and SPF hybrid, ESPA's Daily Skin Shield has a silky, almost milky texture, more of a serum than a cream.

To apply the product to your face and neck, a pointed applicator allows you to apply as much as needed, before gently rubbing it in until absorbed. ESPA recommend 'applying generously' in the morning, and note that it can be used over moisturiser or under makeup.

ESPA's Protect & Brighten Daily Skin Shield SPF 50: My verdict

Texture is a deal-breaker for me when it comes to a facial sunscreen as in my opinion, I don't want anything that feels sticky, greasy or heavy. ESPA's Protect & Brighten Daily Skin Shield SPF 50 was even better than lightweight - it was completely invisible on the skin.

While the product doesn't claim to be a moisturiser, it still managed to leave my complexion with hydrating radiance, but I didn't feel as if any product was lying on my skin surface and causing irritation. I tend to have redness in my cheeks and the Daily Shield didn't inflame this or cause any breakouts.

I tried wearing the SPF over moisturiser and under makeup - both ways worked well for me. The product doesn't leave a white cast and it didn't cause my makeup to shift throughout the day - a problem I've found with some SPF face products.

Another big bonus in my opinion is the SPF feels very luxurious when applying. It has a spa-like almost citrusy scent to it, making it a pleasant experience to apply every morning. It feels bouncy on the skin, however, I haven't noticed any 'toning' effect yet.

The price point is on the higher end of the spectrum, with a 50ml bottle costing £50 at full price, but shoppers can currently nab it for £40 in a 20% off sale at LookFantastic. As this is a product to be used daily, there are cheaper alternatives out there.

Pros

• Lightweight and invisible
• Smells and feels luxurious
• Can be worn under makeup
• High SPF rating

Cons

Premium price point

Doesn't offer a tinted version

Garnier's Vitamin C Daily UV Fluid SPF50+ Invisible is another SPF that I keep in my arsenal. A 40ml bottle is £12.99 at Boots and there's a tinted version - an option that the ESPA Daily Shield could benefit from. I do find it heavier on the skin than ESPA, but it is a quarter of the price.

I'm also a fan of the Glossier Invisible Shield Priming SPF 50. A 50ml bottle is £32 and it is specifically designed to prime the skin for makeup application making it a good choice for those days. Ideal for anyone with oilier skin, it provides a matte rather than a dewy finish.

Ultimately, the price tag of the ESPAProtect & Brighten Daily Skin Shield SPF 50 doesn't put me off as finding a daily SPF that works for you isn't an easy thing. Now on sale for £40, it's a great time to take advantage of the deal and stock up, or test it out.

The fact I don't even know I'm wearing it post-application is enough to have me reaching for it every morning. Plus, feeling as if I'm giving myself a mini-spa experience is a great way to start my day and encourages me to remember to wear SPF daily.