It was last year that No7 launched Future Renew, a range that marked the biggest cosmetic science innovation in the brands history. The pioneering peptide technology was impressive stuff, so much so that No7 reported 500,000 transactions in the first four weeks of it hitting the shelves. No easy feat. The edit, consisting of four skincare products all geared towards reversing the signs of skin damage, has gone from strength to strength since, with one product continuing to sell every seven seconds. It’s no wonder, then, that No7 would recognise a gap in its edit of bestsellers. Enter the Future Renew Damage Protection Defence Shield SPF50, £24.95.
What does the No7 Future Renew Daily Defence Shield SPF50 do?
In short, the No7 Future Renew Damage Protection Defence Shield is a facial SPF created to protect skin from the damage caused by UV rays - all without leaving behind a white cast. It’s been designed ‘so that people can protect their skin from cumulative daily UV exposure which can cause both invisible damage, and visible signs of damage.' Clare O’Connor, No7 senior research scientist says: ‘Even short bursts of sun exposure cause damage to cells and proteins which build up, eventually being displayed as visible signs of sun damage such as dryness, uneven texture, lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and loss of firmness. It is critical to protect against sun damage, that’s why we have added a lightweight, hydrating SPF50 to the No7 Future Renew range, ensuring we have a high protection.’
How to use the No7 Future Renew Daily Defence Shield SPF50
As the No7 Future Renew Daily Defence Shield is meant for damage protection it makes sense to use it each and every day. Take a generous amount (two finger lengths worth is the recommendation for getting the full SPF50 protection) and apply liberally all over freshly cleansed skin. You’ll apply after moisturiser and before make-up. Ensure to distribute the formula evenly, taking it right up to the top of the hairline.
Buy: No7 Future Renew Daily Defence Shield SPF50
A highly protective sunscreen
www.boots.com
Description
One Boots reviewer wrote, ‘I absolutely love this product. It doesn’t clog my pores like a lot of sunscreens do and I love the lightweight feel. My makeup looks flawless every day and with my skin being oily, finding a sunscreen that works this well isn’t easy.’ High praise indeed.
Pros
- Suited to sensitive skin
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- Be careful to avoid the eyes - one reviewer says it can cause stinging if it gets too close
Our Verdict
Rachael Martin, junior beauty editor:
'I’m incredibly impressed. I have oily skin, so ensuring that my SPF is light and non-greasy is often tricky, but I needn’t have worried with this one - there’s not a breakout to be seen. I apply the recommended amount (trust me when I say it’s more than you think) and it sinks into my skin beautifully. It’s not sticky and there’s no sign of a white cast, which are two of my non-negotiables when it comes to my facial SPF’s. It’s also great to know that I'm taking active steps to protect my skin from sun damage.’
It sinks in beautifully, without leaving a white cast
How We Tested It
Rachael says: 'I’ve been testing the No7 Future Renew Daily Defence Shield SPF50 for the past three weeks, where I’ve applied it every morning without fail. Now, I should say that I’d usually like to test a product like this for a bit longer before reviewing, but with the sunshine finally peeping through the skies, I do think I can begin to wax lyrical about this one a little prematurely. In the past, if my oily skin was going to react to an SPF it would have done so within a couple of days - think blocked pores and sore, under the surface spots. You know the sort. Instead, my skin has remained (touch wood) looking bright and feeling soothed. I won't be swapping it out any time soon.’
Overall rating
Affordable protection backed by 15 years worth of research. It's a five out of five.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Junior Beauty Editor where she covers all things beauty, health and wellness.