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We should all know by now that applying and reapplying sunscreen is a necessity, even if you’re indoors by a window or someone who claims to never burn. But this is especially true when you’re basking under the sun. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and UV light exposure is its most preventable risk factor. Although slathering sunscreen on your face and body may be a nuisance, it can be one of the easiest ways to prevent sun damage, wrinkles and painful sunburns.
I get it, applying a gooey, sticky and often pungent sunscreen to your skin isn’t an ideal start to your day. That’s why the invisible, weightless and cast-free, cult-favorite Supergoop! sunscreen quickly became a favorite amongst skincare enthusiasts. If you’ve gone down the Reddit rabbit hole or watched any makeup vlogger, you’ve likely heard rave reviews boasting the amazing benefits of this $42 sunscreen. According to the Supergoop! website, this beloved sunscreen has won more than 25 beauty awards and garnered more than 16,000 five-star reviews.
So, when I heard there was a dupe at a fraction of the cost, I knew I had to get my hands on it and test the two head-to-head.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen vs. Visor Daily Oil-Free Clean Sunscreen
Kudos to the team who developed this sunscreen. Unlike the oily feel of Supergoop!, the Visor sunscreen felt weightless and even cooling on my skin. It was also free of any fragrance, which added to its invisibility factor.
Because it’s oil-free, I prefer using this on my face rather than the greasier Supergoop!. It glides on smoothly during application and doesn’t leave any residue once it absorbs.
The price can’t be beat
For $26, the Visor option contains 3.4 fluid ounces of high-quality sunscreen, which is a better bang for your buck than the also 3.4-fluid-ounce (but $42) Supergoop! bottle. Especially if you’ll be using it every day.
The unique ingredients act as skincare
Although Supergoop! sunscreen has additional benefits like frankincense and meadowfoam seed oil complex to nourish and soothe skin, I thought Visor’s ingredients were more beneficial for my skin type.
Visor sunscreen is formulated with vitamin C, which is known to be a potent antioxidant that helps reduce redness and hyperpigmentation. As someone with acne-prone skin, I’m always looking for products that can help with pesky pockmarks or irritation. I loved that I could use this sunscreen to kill two birds with one stone — not only am I protecting my skin against sun rays but I’m giving my spots some extra love, too.
I also appreciated that Visor contains hyaluronic acid, which helps build collagen and prevents fine lines and wrinkles. I religiously apply hyaluronic acid daily, so having this ingredient in my sunscreen saves me a step in my morning routine. Instead of having a cluttered bathroom counter with Vitamin C serums, hyaluronic acid creams, moisturizers and sunscreens, Visor can be a go-to for most of my daily skincare needs.
It takes slightly longer to absorb into the skin
It’s a bit thicker than the Supergoop! formula, so it does take longer to settle into the skin. But because of its heavier formula, it does create a nice shine on your skin — almost like a clear gloss or highlighter.
Both sunscreens are a great option for everyday, indoor use — they’re moisturizing and have added skincare benefits. Better yet, both dry clear, meaning you won’t get that annoying white cast that some sunscreens leave behind.
Even though both exceeded my expectations, I preferred the Visor sunscreen for its oil-free formula. You may too if you have combination skin. But if it’s a dewy look you’re after, the Supergoop! sunscreen may be a better option, especially if your skin needs extra hydration.