Review: Avene Very High Protection Sunscreen SPF30

Have you ever tried finding cruelty free sunscreen at the chemist? Well, recently I did, and it's really hard. At my chemist, anyway. I did consider a couple from Echolife, however one I had tried and didn't like, and the other was more of a sports sunscreen, whereas I was looking for a day-to-day face sunscreen.

FINALLY after trawling the aisles, I came across Avene. Quick check of CCF and PETA told me they were cruelty free. SCORE! (FYI, there are iPhone apps available for both companies in the app store, for checking on the go).

This sunscreen is a mineral zinc-based sunscreen, which means no chemical nasties that can potentially cause all sorts of health problems. It is pink-based, which I think may be trying to counteract the white cast that many mineral sunscreens give off. This still does have a slight white cast, but nothing as bad as what I get with Invisible Zinc.

The sunscreen is quite runny, and smooths on very easily. It does have a very slight zinc smell, but nothing overpowering. I find the sunscreen sinks in (well, as much as a mineral sunscreen will) quite quickly and doesn't feel heavy on my skin. It also doesn't make my sensitive skin cry, which is always a bonus. Although it's winter, I haven't found any issues with sweating through it or under it like I get with IZ, even with moisturiser, primer, foundation and powder over the top.

I'd gladly purchase this product again.

Avene do not test their products on animals, nor commission third parties to do so.

You can pick up Avene sunscreen from chemists nationally for $23.95 for 50mL

Do you prefer a chemical or mineral sunscreen? Is cruelty free an issue for you in regards to sunscreen?