a blog review of the Laboratoire SVR SPF 50 Sun Secure sunscreen on oily skin

SVR Sun Secure SPF50+ Review: A Game-Changing Sunscreen for Melanated Skin

As a Black woman who’s been on a never-ending journey to find the perfect sunscreen, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the SVR Sun Secure SPF50+. After years of loyal use of Black Girl Sunscreen SPF30 (which I’ve reviewed extensively on the blog), I decided to explore new options, particularly since getting BGS shipped to Europe has become increasingly expensive with international shipping and duties.

Why I Made the Switch

While Black Girl Sunscreen has been my holy grail for years, I believe in staying open to innovations in skincare, especially when it comes to sun protection. The European sunscreen market has been making significant strides in formulating products that work well for melanated skin, and SVR’s offering caught my attention for several compelling reasons.

The Pocket Spray: A Game-Changer for On-the-Go Protection

Let’s talk about what makes the SVR Sun Secure SPF50+ Pocket Spray special. First off, the 20ml spray format is absolutely brilliant for those of us who are always on the move. As someone who carries a small bag most days, I appreciate how this slim, compact bottle fits perfectly alongside my other essentials. It’s TSA-approved, making it ideal for both international travels and quick weekend getaways when you want to pack light but don’t want to compromise on sun protection.

The Application Experience

One of the biggest challenges with sunscreens, especially for Black women, is finding one that doesn’t leave that dreaded white or blue cast. Here’s where the SVR Sun Secure truly shines:

Invisible Finish: The formula dries completely clear on melanated skin – no white cast, no blue cast, nothing but protected skin
Matte Dream: For my oily-skinned sisters, this is a game-changer. The finish is beautifully matte without being drying
Makeup-Friendly: It layers perfectly under makeup without pilling or creating a weird texture
Sensory Experience: There’s a subtle candy-like fragrance that’s present but not overwhelming
Lightweight Feel: The spray formula feels incredibly light on the skin, almost like you’re wearing nothing at all

The Technical Stuff That Matters

SVR hasn’t just created a pleasant-to-use sunscreen; they’ve packed it with serious protection and skin-loving ingredients:

Protection Features:

Broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, and UVA long waves
Added defense against visible light and infrared radiation
Enhanced protection against blue light (crucial for those of us spending long hours in front of screens)

Key Ingredients:

Niacinamide: A powerhouse ingredient for hyperpigmentation
Vitamin E: For antioxidant protection
Watercress Extract: Part of their antioxidant complex

Environmental Consciousness:

SVR has carefully selected their filters to be more environmentally friendly, specifically avoiding:

Endocrine disruptors
Ingredients harmful to marine ecosystems
Known irritants

Real Talk: Performance Throughout the Day

For those of us dealing with hyperpigmentation, consistent sun protection is non-negotiable. Here’s how the SVR Sun Secure SPF50+ performs in real-life situations:

Longevity: The formula holds up well throughout the day
Reapplication: The spray format makes reapplication a breeze, even over makeup
Sweat Resistance: It’s officially water and sweat-resistant, perfect for active lifestyles
Comfort Level: My skin feels soft and comfortable all day, with no irritation or tightness

Who Should Try This?

This sunscreen is particularly well-suited for:

Black women with oily or combination skin
Anyone dealing with hyperpigmentation
Busy professionals who need quick, effective sun protection
Travelers looking for a TSA-friendly option
Those who want a sunscreen that plays well with makeup

Which Format Should You Buy ?

While the 20ml size might seem small, the spray format ensures efficient product distribution. Plus, the convenience factor of having a perfectly portable sunscreen that actually works for melanated skin makes it worth considering, especially if you:

Travel frequently
Like to keep sunscreen in multiple bags
Prefer to try products in smaller sizes before committing to full-size versions
Need a gym bag or office drawer option for reapplication

The Bottom Line

The SVR Sun Secure SPF50+ Pocket Spray has earned its place in my daily routine. While I still have love for Black Girl Sunscreen, having a European alternative that performs this well is fantastic, especially for those of us based in Europe or frequently traveling here.

What sets this sunscreen apart is how it manages to tick all the boxes that matter to Black women with oily skin and hyperpigmentation concerns:

No white cast
Matte finish
High protection
Easy application
Makeup compatibility
Portability

The fact that it’s also environmentally conscious and formulated with sensitive skin in mind makes it even more appealing. While no sunscreen is perfect for everyone, the SVR Sun Secure SPF50+ Pocket Spray comes pretty close for its target audience.

Remember, consistent sun protection is key in managing hyperpigmentation and maintaining healthy skin. Finding a sunscreen that you actually enjoy using makes this crucial skincare step feel less like a chore and more like self-care.

Have you tried the SVR Sun Secure SPF50+? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below, especially from my melanated sisters who are always on the hunt for the perfect sunscreen!

MalianaC

Beauty curator and globe trotter with a mission: testing endless products so you don't have to ! This platform is your shortcut to confidence through curated lists, honest reviews, and beauty discoveries that actually work for us. My journey started with my own struggles—like dealing with oily skin and hyperpigmentation—and it inspired me to dive deep into understanding what works best for us. That’s why I created my platform, a space where I can share my tips, tricks, and experiences. But more than that, it's a community where we can support and inspire each other every step of the way.