SUNscreen review:
Neutrogena dry touch
Let’s dig in to this summer sunscreen favorite that promises quality coverage and grease-free application.
THE BASICS
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is a big name when it comes to sun protection.
Neutrogena as a brand is very well-established. In fact, Neutrogena is known as the number-one dermatologist-recommended sun-care brand.
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry Touch line uses what they refer to as “Helioplex technology” which promises superior UVA/UVB protection. In fact, Neutrogena’s Helioplex tech (which is patented) claims to block more UVA rays than other leading US sunscreens, using stabilized Avobenzone within the formula.
The “Dry Touch” formula relies on micronized silica powder which works to absorb excess sunscreen oils so that all you have left on your skin is a light-weight, non-greasy finish.
Core Benefits
- Waterproof (aka you can hang out in the water, no problem).
- Sweatproof (go ahead, go for that jog).
- Non-comedogenic (fancy words that mean this product is specifically designed to not block up your pores)
- PABA-Free (PABA is short for para-aminobenzoic acid. This ingredient is often used in sunscreen because it does a good job at blocking ultraviolet rays. However, higher-quality sunscreens now avoid using PABA because it can cause skin allergies and other issues).
Ingredients
What’s inside the stuff?
Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Styrene Acrylates Copolymer, Silica, Diethylhexyl 2 6 Naphthalate, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Dimethicone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Methicone, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Bht, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg 100 Stearate, Trideceth 6, Behenyl Alcohol, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Sodium Polyacrylate, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Edta, Methylparaben, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Fragrance
MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Neutrogena’s Dry Touch formula is my main go-to sunscreen for outdoor protection. It’s definitely won me over!
The “dry-touch” nomenclature seems fairly accurate – I find that the sunscreen absorbs quite nicely into the skin, avoiding the greasy sensation that tends to cover your whole body with most sunscreens.
However, that isn’t to say there isn’t any kind of residue. An an outdoor boat party recently, a friend of mine put their hand on my shoulder after I had slathered on some Neutrogena sunscreen and commented “wow, you’re really lathered up, huh?” So no, it’s doesn’t feel as if you’re wearing no sunscreen at all. However, it’s definitely a tremendous step up from your standard oily, grease-covered sunscreen. I also really like the container for Neutrogena’s Dry Touch. The bottle is easy to get lotion out of, and it’s light and compact enough for me to throw it in my purse or backpack without worrying about whether or not its worth the space it’ll take up. I also appreciate how the bottle is designed to be stored with the cap and opening face down, which prevents the frustrating shaking-ketchup-out-of-bottle struggle that often happens with sunscreen that are stored top-up. Many times, Neutrogena’s sunscreen performs flawlessly for me, but that’s not to say I’ve never run into problems.
I have, on a handful of occasions, found white sunscreen pilling happening in the creases of my skin – most notably the inside of my elbow. On a few days when its been scorching hot out and I’ve been sweating uncontrollably, I’ve had the sunscreen basically curdle on my skin.
However, I can’t say for sure whether this is the sunscreen’s fault, as on this occasion I had left my Neutrogena Dry Touch in my hot car for months, and had the entire sunscreen bottle for about a year. Prolonged exposure to heat can speed up a sunscreen’s deterioration, so I can’t really hold Neutrogena accountable.
I see Dry Touch as a solid choice for a summer day spent outdoors when you’ll want good coverage. I like to use it when I want to avoid looking like a grease monkey. However, if I’m spending all day at the beach, I’d probably opt for a cheaper sunscreen, since I don’t care as much about looking greasy when I’m just lying on a beach all day (note: I almost never lie out on a beach all day, because hey – the sun is trying to kill me)!
However, my opinion isn’t the only one that counts. Let’s discuss what other users have to say about Neutrogena Dry Touch.
What Users say
Generally, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch receives positive praise from those who use it. However, as it always the case with sunscreen, a lot really depends on your skin type.
Across the board, users agree that this sunscreen is one of the few that doesn’t leave an oily residue – it absorbs quickly and smoothly into the skin, leaving a light finish that beats that greasy-as-a-seal feeling that usually comes after applying sunscreen. Fans also note that it smells great and rubs in very easily.
While the vast majority of users love Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch sunscreen, some individuals have reported getting a rash when applying this sunscreen to their face. It’s worth noting that this sunscreen isn’t marketed as a facial sunscreen. Most use it on their body and face without issue, but those with very sensitive skin might want to be wary and opt for a gentler sunscreen designed specifically for facial use.
I’ve used this sunscreen for 3-4 years and love it. My dermatologist lectures me all the time about sunscreen because I’m fair and this sunscreen doesn’t smell and works great, it’s not greasy.
My husband and son even use it and usually guys don’t want to bother. My son requested it several times when he was in basic training in the army because he didn’t like the sunscreen they were provided. The other guys used it, too, so he ran out several times.
He’s in Korea now and sure enough, the first thing he asked for was Neutrogena sunscreen because the PX doesn’t carry it. Neutrogena should look into getting in the military PX’s – a great new market.
Ritabee
Review from Neutrogena.com user reviews
I have very fair skin with a lot of moles so I have always been worried about malignant melanoma. I used to try to limit my sun exposure quite a bit but this sunblock is so amazing I feel like I can be outside more without worrying.
I put it on as soon as I go outside and even if I’m swimming or sweating it works PERFECT and only needs to be reapplied about every two hours. It never breaks me out or runs into my eyes and you would never know I was in the sun.
I don’t think I could love it more. It is a little bit pricey, but more than worth it for as amazing as it works because melanoma is nothing to take lightly or play around with.
Sarah79
Review from Neutrogena.com user reviews
PRICING
If you’re used to buying discount store-brand sunscreen, Neutrogena’s Dry Touch line will likely seem pricey. However, compared to similar sunscreens of this level and quality, the pricing is pretty average.
It’s probably not something you want to take on your beach week vacation with the entire family, where you’ll be slathering on sunscreen constantly and washing it off just as often. For those trips, I’d opt for something cheaper.
But for days when you need something light, non-greasy, and effective, this sunscreen is a great choice.
DOES IT WORK ON YOUR FACE?
While plenty of individuals use Neutrogena Dry Touch on their face, I find it doesn’t get along fantastically with my moisturizer, so I tend to only use this product line for my body.
Still, it’s not out of the question to try using Neutrogena’s Dry Touch for your face, depending on your skin type, frequency of acne breakouts, etc.
Plenty of people do choose to use this product on their face as well as their body. However, some individuals get a bad skin reaction when they try to apply this formula to their face, so definitely do a patch test first and be reconsider if you have sensitive skin.
our rating
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry Touch sunscreen has more than earned its spot in your summer beach bag.
This clean and smooth sun lotion absorbs easily into the skin without leaving behind a greasy residue. Users agree that it’s light and comfortable while still providing top-notch sun protection.
One of the top dermatologist-recommended sunscreen brands, Neutrogena Dry Touch is a solid choice for any sunshine warrior.
Author spotlight
Meg Marrs
Meg Marrs is a pale-skinned woman (88% Irish according to a recent DNA test) who is always searching for the best sun protection strategies, seeing to enjoy the sunshine without frying in the process.
