Altruist Face Fluid SPF50: Lightweight vs. Creamy Sunscreen

The Altruist Sunscreen recently garnered significant attention during a sale, sparking numerous inquiries, particularly regarding its texture. Many recalled the previous feedback describing the Altruist Sunscreen as having a thicker, creamier consistency, which can sometimes be a deterrent for users.

Having previously acquired and tested the Altruist Face Fluid sunscreen, it’s opportune to share insights on this alternative formulation.

Altruist, a brand spearheaded by a dermatologist and an economist focused on skincare, operates with a clear mission: to diminish skin cancer rates by promoting widespread sunscreen use. They achieve this by utilizing premium ingredients while maintaining accessible pricing.

This philosophy resonates strongly, aligning with the view that sunscreen is an indispensable skincare product, requiring diligent and generous application. This commitment stands in contrast to childhood experiences where sunscreen application, though well-intentioned by a parent, was often an unwelcome chore.

As its name suggests, the Altruist Face Fluid sunscreen is specifically designed for facial application. It boasts an impressive PPD52 UVA rating, signifying very high protection against UVA rays. Additionally, it offers an SPF50 rating for robust UVB protection and is fortified with Vitamin E and antioxidants to nourish and moisturize the skin.

While the Face Fluid is available in both SPF30 and SPF50 formulations, an SPF50 rating is personally preferred, especially when living in a tropical climate. SPF30 is often deemed insufficient for such conditions, though individual research and preference should guide one's choice.

Similar to the original Altruist Sunscreen, the Face Fluid employs a hybrid formula, combining both chemical UV filters and mineral UV blockers for comprehensive protection.

Left: Face Fluid Right: Regular Sunscreen

Lightweight Liquid Texture

The most striking difference between the Altruist Face Fluid and the regular Sunscreen lies in their textures. The original Sunscreen presents a creamier feel, whereas the Face Fluid is distinctly more liquid. Upon application, it feels notably lightweight and appears to absorb more rapidly into the skin.

Consequently, individuals with oily or combination skin types may find the Altruist Face Fluid more comfortable. For those with dry skin, a slightly richer, more emollient feel is often welcome, making the Altruist Sunscreen tube a preferred option.

It’s reasonable to assume that the Face Fluid’s lighter formulation was a deliberate choice for facial use, enhancing comfort—a key factor for most users, particularly when applying makeup over the top.

However, for some, this lighter texture can be a drawback. As skin matures, particularly from the 40s onwards, it tends to become drier. A very light fluid might not provide the desired level of hydration for these skin types.

Face Fluid: Potentially Too Light for Dry Skin

To evaluate the textural difference, the Face Fluid SPF50 was applied to one half of the face, and the regular Sunscreen SPF50 to the other. The Face Fluid felt somewhat too light, leaving the skin feeling a little dry. In contrast, the creamy texture of the Sunscreen was appreciated, making that side of the face feel more hydrated.

Nonetheless, those accustomed to the textures of many Japanese or Korean sunscreens, which often lean towards lighter, more fluid consistencies, might find the Face Fluid’s sensation on the skin quite agreeable. The regular Sunscreen, by comparison, feels more akin to a rich moisturizer.

Packaging Could Be Improved

Given its liquid consistency, the Face Fluid's packaging design presents a minor inconvenience. A nozzle dispenser would significantly improve control during product dispensing. In its current form, flipping open the cap can cause the product to ooze out, leading to smears on the inner lid. This creates a messy experience, requiring a conscious effort to clean the lid before closing to prevent accumulation and gunk.

Excellent Sun and Heat Protection

Textural preferences notwithstanding, the Altruist Face Fluid performs just as effectively as the cream in protecting the skin from sun exposure. A reliable indicator of a good sunscreen is its ability to prevent skin redness (burning) or overheating, especially for fair-skinned individuals who are more prone to these effects.

Recent weather patterns in tropical regions have been particularly harsh, with temperatures frequently exceeding historical norms. An active lifestyle that involves more outdoor time further underscores the need for robust protection. The Altruist Sunscreen consistently excels at preventing skin burning or overheating during outdoor activities.

The Face Fluid delivers similar impressive results. Despite textural preferences, it provides exceptional protection. Skin remains calm, without heating up or burning, even after prolonged sun exposure. One can return home, albeit sweaty and grimy, but remarkably free from sunburn.

A recent trip to Bangkok, amidst a regional heatwave with daily temperatures hitting 37°C, served as a powerful testament to the Altruist sunscreens' efficacy. While many tourists exhibited red, burnt, and overheated skin from walking under the brutal sun, returning to the hotel revealed comparatively calm skin – no redness, no burn, and no sensation of overheating. This speaks volumes about the quality of Altruist formulations.

The Face Fluid was also used by a partner who generally dislikes thicker textures, and their skin similarly showed no signs of burning or redness from sun exposure, reinforcing its protective capabilities, though consistent and sufficient application remained a point of gentle encouragement.

Use Enough Sunscreen for Best Protection

A practical guideline for sunscreen application is the 2-3 finger rule, where 2-3 finger lengths of product are used to cover the entire face, neck, and décolletage area.

RELATED READING: How to know if you are using enough sunscreen?

With a thicker texture like the Altruist Sunscreen, there's a natural inclination to use less. Resist this urge. Similarly, with a runnier texture like the Altruist Face Fluid, which seems to spread more easily, the temptation to economize on product is also present. Again, resist it.

The key is consistent, adequate application every single time.

Insight 1: The Psychological Barrier of Sunscreen Texture

The choice between a fluid and a cream goes beyond mere preference; it profoundly impacts sunscreen compliance. If a sunscreen feels heavy, greasy, or leaves an undesirable finish, users are far less likely to apply the recommended generous amount, or even to apply it daily. This 'feel-good' factor is critical. A formula that seamlessly integrates into one's daily routine – whether it's a quick-absorbing fluid for humid climates like Singapore or a richer cream for drier skin in temperate zones like the UK – ensures consistent protection, making texture a silent hero in the fight against sun damage.

Insight 2: Sunscreen as a Micro-Investment in Skin Health

Altruist's mission to provide high-quality, affordable sunscreen highlights a crucial insight: consistent, generous use of SPF is a foundational, long-term investment in skin health. When a brand delivers excellent protection (SPF50, PPD52) at a competitive price point (RM79 | £10.95 for 50ml), it removes financial barriers to daily application. This affordability encourages users to apply the necessary '2-3 finger rule' amount without hesitation, preventing premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and significantly reducing skin cancer risk. It transforms sunscreen from an occasional luxury into an accessible, everyday essential for everyone, from a student in Toronto to an outdoor worker in Sydney.

Which Altruist Sunscreen Would Be Picked?

Personal preference leans towards the regular Altruist Sunscreen tube for several reasons:

• Its creamy texture feels more moisturizing for dry skin.
• The 100ml tube offers superior value.
• It's versatile enough for both face and body.
• It is more affordably priced.

While the Face Fluid could certainly be used on the body, its 50ml tube size would make it feel somewhat uneconomical for extensive application.

IN A NUTSHELL

The Altruist Face Fluid SPF50 sunscreen is a lighter, more liquid-textured formulation designed for facial use. Its runnier consistency may offer greater comfort for those with oily or combination skin types. It excels at protecting the skin from the sun, boasting high SPF and PPD ratings for both UVB and UVA protection. The experience regarding its sun protection capabilities was overwhelmingly positive. While a personal preference exists for the creamier texture of the Altruist Sunscreen SPF50, this is purely a textural choice.

PROS:

• Affordable
• Protects skin very well from sun and heat
• High SPF and PPD rating
• No fragrance

CONS:

• Packaging would benefit from a nozzle due to its runny texture

WHO WILL LIKE THIS: Anyone who uses Japanese/Korean sunscreens and prefers a lighter, more liquid texture

PRICE: RM79 | £10.95 for 50ml

WHERE TO BUY: Worthee Cosmetics (use code PARISB to get extra 15% off on every purchase from the website)

For those interested, here is the ingredients list for the Altruist Face Fluid SPF50:

Aqua, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Octocrylene, Dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide (Nano), Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Panthenol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Alumina, Tocopheryl Acetate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Simethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Piroctone Olamine, Titanium Dioxide, Silver Chloride, Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Propylene Glycol

Have you tried either the Altruist Sunscreen or the Face Fluid? Which do you prefer?

This sunscreen is set to be a staple for the foreseeable future. Its accessible price point means generous application can be maintained without financial strain, ensuring both the wallet and the skin remain unharmed.