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UV Face Sensitive Protect SPF 50

UV Face Sensitive Protect SPF 50

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A lightweight, fragrance-free chemical sunscreen with SPF 50 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, specifically formulated for sensitive facial skin. Features 5 advanced UV filters including Tinosorb S and Uvinul A Plus, plus Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract to soothe irritation and reduce redness. Ocean-friendly, eye-friendly, and dermatologically approved for daily wear.

SPF 50 Broad Spectrum Fragrance-Free Dermatologically Tested Ophthalmologically Approved No White Cast 67% Biodegradable Ocean Respect Formula Microplastic-Free Non-Greasy Blue Light Protection
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Caution
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
50ml / 1.69 fl oz
SPF
50 (UVA/UVB)
Type
Chemical (Organic)
UV Filters
5 Filters
Skin Type
Sensitive
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Ultra-Spectrum UV Protection

Five advanced chemical UV filters deliver broad-spectrum SPF 50 coverage across UVA, UVB, and High Energy Visible (Blue) Light to prevent sunburn, photoaging, and hyperpigmentation.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Light Cream
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
30–60 Seconds
Finish
Natural / Semi-Matte

Ultra-Spectrum UV Protection

Five advanced chemical UV filters deliver broad-spectrum SPF 50 coverage across UVA, UVB, and High Energy Visible (Blue) Light to prevent sunburn, photoaging, and hyperpigmentation.

Soothing Sensitive Skin Formula

Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract (Chinese Licorice) calms irritation, reduces redness, and activates the skin's natural antioxidant defense mechanisms from the inside out.

Eye-Friendly & Non-Stinging

Ophthalmologically approved formula that won't sting or irritate the delicate eye area, making it safe to apply close to the eyes without discomfort.

Ocean Respect Formula

67% biodegradable and free of Octinoxate, Oxybenzone, and Octocrylene — UV filters known to damage coral reefs. Also free of microplastics for minimal environmental impact.

Lightweight & Non-Greasy

Fast-absorbing cream texture leaves no sticky residue or white cast. Sits comfortably under makeup and layers well with other skincare products for daily wear.

Internal + External Protection

Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) provides antioxidant defense while Glycerin attracts and retains moisture, supporting the skin barrier alongside UV filter protection.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains chemical/organic UV filters (Avobenzone, Tinosorb S, Ensulizole, Uvinul T 150, Uvinul A Plus). No retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone. Some dermatologists recommend mineral-only SPF during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Contains Isopropyl Palmitate (an ester) and Cocoglycerides/Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides which may feed Malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne, patch-test first or consider a confirmed FA-safe alternative.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Overall formulation rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. Non-greasy, lightweight texture is unlikely to clog pores for most users. Isopropyl Palmitate is present at a low concentration and balanced by light emollients.

Fragrance-Free

No added parfum, essential oils, or fragrance allergens. Ideal for reactive and allergy-prone skin. Reduces the #1 cause of cosmetic contact dermatitis.

Dermatologically & Ophthalmologically Tested

Skin compatibility confirmed by dermatologists. Eye-friendliness confirmed by ophthalmologists. Safe for use around the delicate eye contour area.

Reef-Safe & Ocean Respect

Free from Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and Octocrylene — the three UV filters most linked to coral reef bleaching. 67% biodegradable formula. Free from microplastics.

Contains Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is the second ingredient, which helps create a lightweight, fast-drying texture. May be drying for very dry or compromised skin barriers. Most users with normal-to-oily skin tolerate it well.

Not Vegan / Not Cruelty-Free

NIVEA (Beiersdorf) products may be tested on animals where required by law (e.g., China). The formula is not certified vegan or cruelty-free.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S) ~2.2–2.7%Proven

One of the most advanced broad-spectrum UV filters available today, covering the entire UVA and UVB range (280–400 nm). Exceptionally photostable — it barely degrades in sunlight and also stabilizes other less-stable filters like Avobenzone.

  • Spectrum: Full UVA + UVB (280–400 nm), peak protection at 310 nm and 345 nm
  • Photostability: Excellent — does not degrade meaningfully under UV exposure
  • Safety: No estrogenic activity detected; minimal skin penetration
A 2007 EU comparative study found Tinosorb S delivered the highest SPF of all 18 approved sunscreen agents tested at their maximum permitted concentrations.

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone) ~3.6–4.4%Proven

The global gold-standard UVA filter, providing broad UVA coverage across 310–400 nm. It is the most widely used UVA protector in the world and the only globally approved chemical filter offering strong UVA1 protection.

  • Spectrum: UVA (310–400 nm), peak protection at 360 nm
  • Stabilization: Tinosorb S in this formula prevents Avobenzone from degrading in sunlight
  • Safety: Non-irritating with no known estrogenic effects
Avobenzone alone is not photostable and loses ~36% UV absorption capacity within one hour. This formula stabilizes it with Tinosorb S and Ensulizole.

Ethylhexyl Triazone (Uvinul T 150) ~2.0–2.5%Proven

A next-generation UVB filter that delivers the highest photostable UVB absorption of any available filter. Oil-soluble, odorless, and colorless — ideal for elegant, fragrance-free formulations.

  • Spectrum: UVB (280–320 nm), peak protection at 314 nm
  • Efficiency: Highest photostable UVB absorption among all commercial UV filters
  • Allowed: Up to 5% in the EU; not FDA-approved in the US/Canada

Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus) ~0.75–1.1%Proven

An advanced UVA filter that provides strong, photostable UVA protection. Works synergistically with Avobenzone, boosting overall UVA coverage and extending the longevity of sun protection.

  • Spectrum: UVA range with excellent photostability
  • Function: Supports and stabilizes Avobenzone for sustained UVA defense
  • Safety: Good tolerability profile with minimal irritation potential

Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract (Chinese Licorice)Promising

A botanical anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening extract derived from Chinese Licorice root. Helps calm UV-induced irritation, reduce redness, and may aid in evening out skin tone by inhibiting melanin production.

  • Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms irritated or sensitized skin
  • Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure
  • Brightening: May help lighten hyperpigmentation and dark spots over time

Glycerin ~2–5%Proven

A skin-identical humectant that attracts and holds moisture in the upper skin layers. Helps maintain the lipid barrier in a healthy liquid-crystal state, protecting against dryness and irritation.

  • Hydration: Effective from as low as 3%, with greater benefits for dry skin at higher concentrations
  • Barrier support: Helps maintain the skin's natural moisture balance
  • Comedogenicity: 0 — does not clog pores

31 ingredients

Aqua, Alcohol Denat., Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Isopropyl Palmitate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Dibutyl Adipate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Distarch Phosphate, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Tapioca Starch, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Methylpropanediol, Glycerin, Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Cocoglycerides, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyacetophenone, Trisodium EDTA.

FREE FROM: Parfum/Fragrance, Parabens, Octinoxate, Oxybenzone, Octocrylene, Microplastics, Mineral Oil, Colorants/Dyes, Essential Oils, Homosalate, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
This Sunscreen
6
Makeup (Optional)

Always apply sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine, before makeup. This product is hydrating enough to double as a light day cream for normal-to-oily skin types. Wait 1–2 minutes for full absorption before applying foundation or primer.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Apply Generously

Squeeze approximately a nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) onto your fingertips. Use two finger-lengths as a visual guide for adequate face and neck coverage.

2

Spread & Rub In

Dot the cream on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently spread outward in upward strokes, covering the entire face, ears, and neck. Do not forget the hairline and jawline.

3

Let It Set

Allow 1–2 minutes for the sunscreen to fully absorb and form a protective film before sun exposure. The formula dries down to a non-sticky, semi-matte finish.

4

Reapply Every 2 Hours

Reapply frequently, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Reducing the applied quantity significantly lowers the protection level. Do not rely on a single morning application for all-day defense.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have sensitive skin that reacts to fragranced sunscreens
  • You want high SPF protection that doesn't leave a white cast
  • You need an eye-friendly formula that won't sting
  • You prefer a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen for daily use
  • You want ocean-friendly UV protection without Oxybenzone/Octinoxate
  • You are looking for an affordable European pharmacy sunscreen
  • You want broad-spectrum protection including blue light defense

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have very dry skin and need a highly moisturizing SPF
  • You are strictly avoiding all chemical/organic UV filters
  • You need a waterproof sunscreen for swimming or sports
  • You have active fungal acne and need a confirmed FA-safe formula
  • You prefer a fully vegan and cruelty-free certified product
  • You need a larger tube size (this is only 50ml)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Good

Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding excessive shine. Alcohol Denat. helps keep the finish matte, though oil control is not its primary focus. May need blotting by mid-afternoon.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Contains Glycerin and emollients but the Alcohol Denat. may feel slightly drying. Best layered over a hydrating serum or moisturizer for dry skin types.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Ideal balance of lightweight hydration and non-greasy finish. Won't over-moisturize oily zones or dry out drier areas. A natural-finish formula that works across different face zones.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Specifically designed for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, ophthalmologically and dermatologically tested, with soothing Licorice Root Extract. A top choice for reactive and allergy-prone skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and non-greasy formula. Contains Isopropyl Palmitate which has a higher comedogenic potential individually, but is present at low concentration. Patch-test if very breakout-prone.

08

Results timeline

3–6 MONTHS
Immediately

Instant UV Protection

Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection activates as soon as the cream is absorbed. Skin feels soothed and comfortable with no stinging, tightness, or white cast.

95% noticed instant comfort
1–2 Weeks

Reduced Sensitivity & Redness

With daily use, Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract helps calm chronic redness and irritation. Skin appears less reactive to environmental triggers. Fewer flare-ups reported by users with rosacea-adjacent sensitivity.

70% noticed calmer skin
4–8 Weeks

More Even Skin Tone

Consistent UV protection prevents new dark spots and allows existing hyperpigmentation to gradually fade. The antioxidant blend supports healthier, more resilient skin that bounces back from environmental stress.

65% noticed improved skin tone
3–6 Months

Visible Anti-Aging Benefits

Daily SPF 50 use is the single most effective anti-aging strategy. Users report fewer new fine lines, reduced sun spots, and improved overall skin texture. UV damage prevention compounds over time.

80% noticed younger-looking skin
09

Ratings by platform

3K+ REVIEWS
Amazon UK
4.3
Rating
2,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can pill or flake when layered over certain skincare products or under heavy makeup
Nivea Website
4.1
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 50ml tube runs out quickly with daily use; some users find it slightly drying
Boots / Superdrug
4.2
Rating
350+
Reviews
Main complaint: Absorbs fast but can feel dry for those with dehydrated skin; some wish for a larger size
Beauty Blogs
4.0
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not as moisturizing as Asian or French pharmacy competitors; better suited for oily/combo than dry skin
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Fragrance-free and gentle — rarely causes irritation or stinging
  • No white cast on any skin tone
  • Eye-friendly formula that doesn't burn or water the eyes
  • Lightweight, non-greasy texture perfect for daily use
  • Advanced 5-filter UV system with modern Tinosorb S technology
  • Affordable compared to premium pharmacy sunscreens
  • Ocean-friendly formula free of harmful reef-bleaching filters
  • Sits nicely under makeup as a primer-like base

Criticized

  • Small 50ml tube runs out within 3–4 weeks of daily use
  • Contains Alcohol Denat. which can be drying for some
  • May pill or flake when layered over silicone-heavy products
  • Not waterproof — requires more frequent reapplication during activities
  • Not vegan or cruelty-free certified
  • Some users find it not moisturizing enough for very dry skin
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Ambre Solaire Sensitive Advance Lotion SPF 50+
$9.50
Budget Pick

Similar fragrance-free, sensitive-skin focus with chemical UV filters. Uses Mexoryl SX/XL instead of Tinosorb S. Slightly thicker texture but comparable protection level and price point.

72% Match
Dermatologist Sunscreen SPF 50
$7.00
Budget Pick

Ultra-affordable UK dermatologist-developed sunscreen. Uses Tinosorb S + Tinosorb M for broad protection. Thicker, more moisturizing cream texture. Not fragrance-free (mild scent). Comes in larger 100ml tubes.

68% Match
Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Face Lotion
$15.99
Similar Price

Mineral (Zinc Oxide + Titanium Dioxide) instead of chemical filters. Better for pregnancy/breastfeeding. Contains Ceramides and Niacinamide for barrier repair. May leave slight white cast on deeper skin tones.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Anthelios Uvmune 400 SPF 50+ Tinted
UV Filter System 4 Filters (incl. Mexoryl 400)
Size 50ml
Fragrance Contains Fragrance
Finish Invisible Fluid
Key Extras Thermal Spring Water, Antioxidants
Reef Safe Yes
Cost per ml ~$0.70/ml
Sun Face Sensitive Protect Cream SPF 50+
UV Filter System 5 Filters (incl. Tinosorb S)
Size 50ml
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Finish Ultra-Light Fluid
Key Extras Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Advanced Spectral
Reef Safe Partial
Cost per ml ~$0.44/ml
Photoderm MAX Cream SPF 50+
UV Filter System 5 Filters (incl. Tinosorb M)
Size 40ml
Fragrance Contains Fragrance
Finish Rich Cream
Key Extras Cellular Bioprotection, Ectoin
Reef Safe Partial
Cost per ml ~$0.70/ml
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid temperatures above 30°C (86°F). Do not leave in a hot car or direct sun as UV filters may degrade.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Easy to control dispensing. Hygienic design minimizes contamination from fingers.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in a handbag or toiletry kit for on-the-go reapplication.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

This sunscreen uses chemical (organic) UV filters including Avobenzone, Tinosorb S, Uvinul T 150, Ensulizole, and Uvinul A Plus. It does NOT contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, some healthcare providers recommend mineral-only sunscreens (Zinc Oxide/Titanium Dioxide) during pregnancy as a precaution, since chemical filters may be absorbed into the skin. No studies have shown harm from these specific filters during pregnancy, but if you prefer to err on the side of caution, consult your doctor or consider a mineral alternative like CeraVe Hydrating Mineral SPF 50.

This formula contains Isopropyl Palmitate (an ester), Cocoglycerides, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, and Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil — ingredients that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne in susceptible individuals. While some databases list the product as FA-safe (likely referencing different regional formulations with fewer ingredients), we recommend caution. If you have active fungal acne, patch-test on a small area first or consider a confirmed FA-safe sunscreen.

Yes. This sunscreen is compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. In fact, using SPF is essential when using these actives, as they increase sun sensitivity. Apply your active serum first (vitamin C in the AM; retinol in the PM), let it absorb, then apply this sunscreen as the final step. For AHA/BHA, use them in your PM routine and protect with this SPF the following morning.

This sunscreen is best suited for sensitive, combination, and normal skin types. It excels for people with reactive or allergy-prone skin thanks to its fragrance-free, ophthalmologically tested formula with soothing Licorice Root Extract. Oily skin types will appreciate its non-greasy, semi-matte finish. Dry skin types may want to layer it over a hydrating serum or moisturizer, as the Alcohol Denat. content can feel slightly drying on its own.

UV protection is immediate upon application. Within 1–2 weeks of daily use, most users notice reduced redness and sensitivity from the Licorice Root Extract. After 4–8 weeks, consistent SPF use helps prevent new dark spots and allows existing hyperpigmentation to fade. The most significant anti-aging benefits (fewer fine lines, improved texture) become visible after 3–6 months of daily, year-round application.

Sunscreen should always be the very last step in your skincare routine, applied after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. If you wear makeup, apply this sunscreen first, wait 1–2 minutes for it to set, then apply primer or foundation on top. This product is hydrating enough to replace a light day cream for normal-to-oily skin types.

The overall formulation has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. While it does contain Isopropyl Palmitate (individually rated 4/5 for comedogenicity), it is present at a low concentration and balanced by lightweight emollients and the fast-absorbing base. Most users — including those with oily and acne-prone skin — do not experience breakouts. However, if you are extremely breakout-prone, patch-test on a small area for a few days before full-face application.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal UV protection efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Discard if the texture, color, or smell changes, or if the product separates. With daily use on face and neck, the 50ml tube typically lasts 3–4 weeks.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: NIVEA UV Face Sensitive Protect SPF 50 is an excellent value-for-money European sunscreen that punches well above its price point. With 5 advanced UV filters (including the highly regarded Tinosorb S), a fragrance-free and ophthalmologically tested formula, and soothing Licorice Root Extract, it delivers high-level protection specifically engineered for sensitive skin. The lightweight, non-greasy cream leaves no white cast and layers beautifully under makeup. Its main drawbacks are the small 50ml size, the presence of Alcohol Denat. (which may not suit very dry skin), and potential pilling when layered over silicone-heavy products. At roughly half the price of La Roche-Posay Anthelios, it is one of the best affordable sensitive-skin sunscreens available in Europe. Ideal for combination and sensitive skin types seeking daily broad-spectrum protection without compromise.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
44% 22% 33%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 9 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
3 Unknown
Octocrylene
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Uv Filter
UV Protection
2 Unknown
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
UV Protection
1 Unknown
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
0 Unknown
Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol
Uv Filter
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS