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The importance of wearing sunscreen is not lost on Glow Recipe cofounders Christine Chang and Sarah Lee. So when they heard feedback that their first formula, Watermelon Glow SPF Lotion, did not wear well and caused pilling, they decided to go back to the drawing board. The duo remained determined to create a weightless SPF with 100% chemical filters for broad-spectrum protection that achieves glowing skin—i.e., one you’d actually want to wear. And three years later we’re happy to report that they’ve cracked the code. Introducing the Dew Shield SPF 30, available to shop now exclusively for Vogue readers before its official April 29 launch.
“We wanted to create an SPF that included the best parts of a Korean sunscreen but was created in the US and accessible for everyone,” Chang says. The pair grew up in Korea with their moms teaching them that sunscreen was one of the most important parts of their routines. “We spent the last two years perfecting a new formula that we knew our community would love,” Lee continues. “It’s been a labor of love to create this formula that is inspired by everything we love about Korean sun care—clinically proven deep hydration; a quick-to-absorb, seamless texture without white cast; and a glowy finish with advanced broad-spectrum protection. The formula and experience of application are reminiscent of Korean sunscreens, but our Watermelon Glow Dew Shield SPF is produced Stateside, so you don’t need to book an international trip to get your hands on it.”
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Dew Shield SPF 30
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- Why We Love It: A weightless, serum-like formula, this relies on glycerin, watermelon-seed oil, and vitamin E to quell dryness and lock in moisture. Niacinamide helps impart the glowing, radiant finish you might expect from Glow Recipe, while clean chemical UV filters shield against damaging sun rays and dark spots. Plus, its delicately fruity scent makes this a sensorial experience from start to finish.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (3% avobenzone, 7% homosalate, 5% octisalate)
- Key Ingredients: Glycerine, watermelon-seed oil, vitamin E, niacinamide
- SPF Level: 30
- Size: 50 ml
The allure of the K-beauty SPF lies in the sensorial experience one has when applying it—a philosophy that Glow Recipe has mastered over the years. Described as a hydrating fluid, the texture here is more serum-lotion than cream, suited for those who want moisture without the weight; it’s also excellent to layer with other serums, face creams, and makeup. It blends undetectably, too, revealing a more radiant complexion almost instantly. “We also tested the formula extensively on different skin types and tones to ensure there was no pilling or white cast after use, and it also creates a beautiful, hydrated canvas for makeup application,” Lee notes. Its finish lends itself well to all skin types, providing ample hydration without greasiness.
On composition, Dew Shield is powered by a host of clean chemical UV filters (3% avobenzone, 7% homosalate, and 5% octisalate) that align with the Clean at Sephora and Sephora Planet Aware seals. “It’s also formulated with niacinamide, which helps strengthen the skin barrier by boosting hydration and reducing hyperpigmentation from sun exposure,” Chang says. “We also formulated with a blend of black, red, and white rice extracts, known to help protect the skin from signs of damage caused by pollution and blue light. To deeply hydrate and soothe dry skin, we’ve included a nourishing mix of glycerin, watermelon-seed oil, and vitamin E.” And in expected Glow Recipe fashion, this is scented with—true to its name—a delectable watermelon aroma to avoid that typical scent that often deters people from using sunscreen. Dew Shield features a small amount of extensively tested fragrance at less than 0.5% of the formula. “We are always thorough with testing, and Dew Shield was tested to be noncomedogenic and nonirritating. It’s also dermatologist tested to be safe for sensitive skin and ophthalmologist tested as safe to use around the eye area.”
It’s been a true treat to test this over the last few weeks. With its lightweight texture, glowing finish, and ability to safeguard against sun damage and hyperpigmentation, this has all the makings of a universally appealing sunscreen—and has quickly become a staple in my skin-care rotation.
