Who is this for?

Perfect for:

Helps with:

Not great for:

What makes it special?

The most important thing with SPF is that it needs to be both easy and to a degree enjoyable to use. This product ticks both of those boxes - it goes on easily, absorbs quickly and leaves your skin both protected and hydrated. The bonus being that not only do you know that it is non-comedogenic but the NeoGlucosamine will actively be preventing and treating your skin alongside the rest of your routine.

Certainly not the cheapest SPF but the price point is justified by the fact that it doubles as a light moisturiser suitable for all skin types.

— Dr Max Greenfield

Key ingredients

NeoGlucosamine (N-acetyl glucosamine) is an amino sugar that plays a role in the skin’s natural support structures, including hyaluronic acid production. Early clinical studies suggest it may help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, particularly when combined with other active ingredients. It also provides very mild exfoliating effects and may support hydration. While results are promising, much of the published data is manufacturer-sponsored, and more independent large-scale studies would help clarify the extent of its benefits.

Grape Seed Extract contains polyphenols, particularly proanthocyanidins, which have strong antioxidant activity in laboratory studies. Antioxidants are known to help neutralise free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution. While its antioxidant capacity is well established in vitro, robust clinical evidence demonstrating significant anti-ageing or pigmentation benefits in topical skincare is more limited. It is generally included to support overall skin protection and resilience, particularly in formulations targeting environmental stress.

Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Leaf Extract contains flavonoids, limonoids and other plant compounds associated with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. Laboratory research suggests it may help reduce inflammation and inhibit certain acne-related bacteria, but high-quality clinical studies in finished skincare products are limited. Many of its purifying and blemish-support claims are based on traditional use and early-stage evidence rather than large controlled trials. It is typically included in formulations aimed at supporting oily or blemish-prone skin while helping maintain overall skin comfort.

UV Protection: (Octinoxate), Ethylhexyl Salicylate (Octisalate), Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone)

Other ingredients: Aqua (Water), Acetyl Glucosamine, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Dimethicone, C12-C15 Alkyl Benzoate, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Lecithin, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Tocopheryl (Vitamin E) Acetate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Propylene Glycol, PEG-75 Stearate, Steareth-20, Xanthan Gum, Ceteth-20, Ammonium Hydroxide, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Bisulfite.

How to use

Cleanse your face and pat dry

Tone - optional step if you want to introduce additional actives into your routine

Vitamin C Serum - part of your core routine for its anti-oxidant benefits

Targeted active ingredients if this is part of your routine

Moisturise - only if you feel you need some extra hydration

Neostrata Sheer Hydration SPF 40

Makeup (optional)

Application Instructions

You’ll want to pump out two finger lengths of product onto your hand to apply to your face (all the way into your hairline), neck, ears and eye lids and massage in gently.

It’s normal for it to look a bit white and shiny for a couple of minutes but it’ll settle shortly with no white cast. 

Depending on your skin type or how your skin is feeling on the day you may find that this will suffice as your moisturiser although if your skin is feeling particularly dry then you’ll want to moisturise first followed by this.

As with all SPF the advice is to reapply every two hours - I know that this sounds overwhelming but do try to apply as often as possible particularly if you are outdoors, have been sweating, have been in water or have towelled your face.