
Weleda UV Glow
Sun lotion, SPF 30, 30 ml

Weleda’s UV Glow Fluid embodies everything I usually avoid: SPF 30, mineral UV filters and natural cosmetics. But after testing, I’m surprisingly happy with it.
Holidays are the perfect time for reviews. After all, you only really get to know a product when you haven’t packed any alternatives. I went on a family holiday to Lucca in Tuscany last week. For the trip, I packed an eye-catching pink-and-yellow tube – the new UV Glow Fluid SPF 30 from natural cosmetics brand Weleda. For several reasons, this was a rather unusual choice for me:
1.) Natural cosmetics aren’t really my cup of tea.
2.) I prefer chemical UV filters because they don’t leave a white cast. However, as a brand certified in natural cosmetics, Weleda obviously relies on mineral-based protection.
3.) Whenever possible, I prefer to use sunscreen with SPF 50 rather than 30.
Still, the product appealed to me so much visually that I was willing to take the risk of being disappointed during my trip.

The light texture surprises me. As generally recommended, I apply several layers to make sure I’m using enough of the fragrance-free product. I can feel the heavier texture typical of mineral sunscreens between my fingers.
White cast?
The formula itself is easy to apply. Weleda insists that it leaves no white traces. And I agree, provided you’re using small quantities. But after rubbing in two generous finger lengths of the cream, I’m definitely left with a bluish-white cast on my face. Having said that, it’s far more subtle than what I’ve seen other mineral sunscreens do. Still, my complexion is already fair and just looks washed-out after application. If you have dark skin, you might as well stop reading here.

UV filter
The higher the sun protection factor, the more likely a mineral sunscreen will leave a white cast. My guess is that an SPF of 30 strikes a balance between maximum protection and minimal white cast. According to Weleda, the product protects against UVB and UVA radiation and uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (nano) as filters. The formula is free of octocrylene, octinoxate and oxybenzone.
Feel and finish
I especially like the way the sunscreen feels on my skin. It’s not sticky, nor does it look shiny and greasy, despite the moringa oil it contains. Quite the opposite. It feels as if my face is covered with an ultra-thin layer of rubber. But in a good way. This makes my make-up sit particularly well on my skin. The fluid owes the «glow» in its name to light-reflecting particles that are only visible in direct sunlight. I don’t mind them.
Caution
If your skin comes into contact with water, whether that’s by a pool, due to heavy sweating, while brushing your teeth or during an unexpected downpour, the fluid will start to dissolve. This means you might start to see milky patches. So if there’s water involved, I recommend taking a quick look in the mirror.
Pro
Contra

Weleda UV Glow
Sun lotion, SPF 30, 30 ml
As a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.