Women's Health April 24, 2026 0 Comments

I Spent a Year Testing SPF Makeup — Here’s the One That Actually Shielded My Skin and Boosted My Glow

Ever wonder if your sunscreen could do more than just sit there—blocking rays like a wallflower at a party? Well, Ilia’s Super Serum isn’t just any SPF; it’s the multitasking MVP your skin’s been begging for. This gem doesn’t just slap on protection—it nourishes, hydrates, and literally pampers mature skin with a powerhouse blend including hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and squalane. Picture this: a serum that smooths, soothes sunburns with aloe, and even tackles wrinkles and adult acne (yes, it’s a thing as we age). I mean, if serums had resumes, this one would be CEO material. And the best part? It glides on with just your fingers—no brushes, no fuss, no cakey mess. Sure, it’s on the lighter coverage side, but for those ‘good skin days,’ it’s a no-brainer. Ready to switch up your skincare game and glow like you mean it? LEARN MORE

Ilia’s Super Serum is the one SPF makeup product I keep coming back to because it does it all. It makes my skin look and feel good, is packed with dermatologist-approved ingredients for major hydration, and it’s easy to apply and wear.

Plus, it’s a great fit for anyone with mature skin. Ilia is jam-packed with moisturizing superhero ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter which is a must for people with dry, normal, and combination skin. It’s also enriched with squalane, which locks in moisture and enhances elasticity for bouncy, supple skin.

It even contains aloe vera, a low-key skincare superstar that has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe sunburns and provides hydration and restores the skin’s moisture barrier, says dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD. Rounding out the impressive ingredient list is soothing and wrinkle-reducing niacinamide, which helps calm redness, boost hydration, and even tackle adult acne—a common issue that affects women into their menopause, according to dermatologists in our guide to the best skincare products for your 40s.

Another important concern for mature skin? Dr. Gratch says many of his older patients miss their natural glow, and this face serum provides an instant cosmetic fix. Due to its natural appearance and comfortable feel, it’s a go-to choice for anyone seeking effective sun protection alongside light coverage in their everyday routine, he adds.

I love the convenience of Super Serum. I can apply it with my fingers instead of wasting extra product with a makeup sponge or brush. Using my fingers is easy, fast, and my natural body heat helps it blend smoothly. Plus, it’s way easier to wash my hands before and after application instead of cleansing a makeup brush and waiting for it to dry each day. Even without a face primer, Ilia doesn’t settle into my fine lines, which is a major win because I dislike a cakey look.

The only downside to this clean beauty pick is that it provides minimal coverage. On days my skin is behaving, this is a great option. However, when my complexion is temperamental, I prefer a medium to full coverage, which I can’t achieve with Ilia. That said, I’m still into this serum, and with summer on the way, it’ll be in heavy rotation to help achieve that glowy finish.