Tested for You: Nourishing Sunscreen with SPF 50+ “Advanced Day Ultimate Protect” by Medik8

Sunscreen plus moisturization is the ideal combination for daytime skincare during the summer months. This is because, especially during this time of year, the skin needs moisture to combat dryness and adequate protection against intense sunlight and harmful environmental factors. One thing is clear: a large portion of premature skin aging is caused by UV light. Medik8’s sun protection products are designed specifically to address this. In addition to classic UV protection, these scientifically developed formulations offer comprehensive protection against factors such as environmental pollution and blue light.  

Future-oriented sunscreen plus skincare

“Advanced Day Ultimate Protect” is designed to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun, as well as from air pollution, blue light, infrared damage, and glycation (damage to collagen and elastin). This helps prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, a dull complexion, and uneven skin texture.

The formula is enriched with a DNA repair enzyme called photolyase, which supports the skin’s natural repair mechanisms after UV exposure. For daily hydration, the formula contains squalane and hyaluronic acid in various molecular weights. Hyaluronic acid, in particular, is an extremely potent hydrator. It has the ability to attract and retain more than 1,000 times its own weight in water. In this way, it distributes moisture throughout the various layers of the skin and gives the complexion visible suppleness.

“Medik8’s solution is to replenish the skin’s natural levels of DNA repair enzymes through the topical application of Advanced Day Ultimate Protect, thereby reducing the visible signs of DNA damage such as fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration,” says Daniel Isaacs, Head of Product Development.

My skin test

The cream comes out of the tube a bit thick and very white for my taste. However, it spreads easily on the skin, doesn’t leave a white cast, and absorbs quickly. It leaves a non-greasy, invisible finish. I don’t use foundation, but I can easily imagine that the cream can also be applied under makeup without any problems—as the manufacturer of the sunscreen confirms.

As the final step in my morning skincare routine, I apply five pumps of the cream to my skin and spread it over my face using upward motions, avoiding the eye area. I apply another five small amounts to my neck, décolletage, and the backs of my hands—areas that are all too often forgotten. If I’m out in direct sunlight for an extended period, I reapply the cream every two hours.

Advanced UV filters

Comprehensive UV protection is provided by a complex of high-quality chemical sun filters that have been carefully selected for their high performance, skin-friendly benefits, and stability in sunlight. An innovative combination of sustainably sourced blueberry seed oil, Marrubium vulgare extract, and carnosine ensures 360-degree protection against environmental stressors.

„Advanced Day Ultimate Protect“ by Medik8, 50 ml, 79 euros. Available at Medik8, Niche-Beauty, and on Amazon.

And then there’s also…

Alternatively, Medik8 also offers “Advanced Day Total Protect” (50 ml, 77 euros), a sunscreen with SPF 30. And because the delicate skin around the eyes is particularly sensitive to the harmful and aging effects of UV rays and environmental stressors, the product line includes a special eye care product with SPF 30. “Advanced Day Eye Protect” (15 ml, 54 euros) combines sunscreen and skincare in one product. The special formula for the eye area prevents wrinkles and smooths fine lines, while also combating dark circles and puffiness under the eyes.

The story behind Medik8

The brand was founded in 2009 by British scientist Elliot Isaacs. He holds a university degree in physiology and pharmacology. His vision was to create a skincare brand that would take on the effects of aging. Drawing on years of clinical and consumer research, Elliot embarked on a unique mission to fulfill a simple promise to customers: results without compromise.

In 2011, Elliot brought on his brother, the talented chemist Daniel Isaacs, as Chief Product Officer, tasked with building the company’s research, development, and manufacturing capabilities. In 2018, the brothers developed “Crystal Retinal” in the Medik8 laboratories near London. A skincare breakthrough that earned a global patent for stabilizing vitamin A (retinaldehyde) into a remarkable anti-aging skincare serum with a unique potency scale. To this day, it remains the brand’s iconic product.