Sparkled Beauty

I found Supergoop! Defense Refresh SPF50 (broad spectrum) setting mist with rosemary on Sephora. I wanted to try it, had to have it shipped over by a US friend cause the brand is not available to Canadians.

Claiming to be a three-in-one mist that sets makeup, controls oil and delivers UV protection with a matte finish and a rosemary and mint scent, the product is very intriguing.

There are lots of (matte) makeup setting sprays but a sunscreen spray that can go directly on the face (i.e. reapplying SPF protection without disturbing the makeup you already have on the face) is first in the market that I know of.

On the other 2 aspects of the formula, the optical diffusing silica silylate is supposed to help controlling oil and reducing shine, leaving the skin matte and smooth, and creating a sheer shield on top of makeup that dries quickly after application.

How to use:
- Shake well so that the UV protective and makeup setting ingredients are evenly emulsified and distributed
- Mist 4 times in a circle (with eyes and mouth closed during and about 3 seconds after application) after makeup or on bare face 15 minutes before sun exposure
- Reapply at least every 2 hours.

Warning: not to use on damaged/ broken skin.

Take it from me, you will want to follow the above instructions (especially the misting step) to a T. If you open your eyes too quickly after application, they might water. Also, hold your breath for at least 5 seconds or you first whiff will be very herbal-ly and strong.

I can understand the brand having rosemary in the formula for its antioxidant and soothing properties but rosemary (and mint) is not the best scent in the world for a facial spray.

The nozzle is sturdy and produces a good mist to the face. The way it is designed, however, will not give you a continuous spray. The spray comes out clear so I don't think a swatch is necessary.

Active ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 4%, Octinoxate 6%, Octisalate 3%.
Ingredients: Alcohol Denat, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Isododecane, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Silica Silylate, Water, PVP, Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Stem/ Leaf Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil.

Overall, I appreciate the mist for the SPF and the matte finish. Oil control effect is decent but would depend on the weather and other products you have on the face. Can't say I feel the same toward the scent and how it feels immediately after application, but I'll use it up. Might switch back to mineral powders (Elf SPF45 sunscreen powder comes to mind) for touchups.

The mist is parabens free, 3.4oz/ 100ml, $28 (or 1oz/ 30ml, $12) in the US.