Sammycchi Days: Review - Kanebo Allie Extra UV Gel (Mineral Moist) N

Since summer is just around the corner, I had to buy a good sunscreen, and FAST. I decided to try on the popular Japanese sunscreen, Kanebo's Allie. My Japanese friend recommended it to me and I'm so excited that I'm finally able to try this!

For those who haven't heard of Allie before, it's a line of sunscreen from Kanebo. According to its official website, the line claims to provide products that cut high amount of Ultra Violet Rays, while providing pleasant and comfortable use. There are 4 different types of sunscreen from this line. All of them for use on the face and body, except for the pink one (it's for face and decollete areas). I got the teal one, which is Allie Extra UV Gel (Mineral Moist) N. It's a gel-type sunscreen with SPF50+ PA++++. It's popular in Japan and won No.1 Best Sunscreen on @cosme Best Cosmetic Award 2012.

The packaging is white with a simple and sleek design. The tube is a 90g and easily fits into my hand. Really easy to carry in my bag.

All the descriptions are in Japanese, but, I'll be happy to translate it if someone requests it :)

The description says that it contains Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Hatomugi Extract (A type of seed that helps clear blemish and redness on skin *^^*)

Although it says "gel-type", I would say that the texture is between water-type and cream-type sunscreen. The sunscreen has a very good, thin, and comfortable texture, as it glides really well and absorbs quickly on my skin. It's non-sticky and non-greasy like most Japanese sunscreens, which is why I prefer them rather than the ones here in the States.

Upon application, it gives off a nice cooling effect that I like a lot. The gel has a bit of a yellowish tone and has quite a strong scent of alcohol. I personally didn't mind this, however, I would say to avoid this for those who doesn't like the smell of it because it can be quite powerful. The gel can be easily removed using make-up remover and body soap.

Aside from the body, I also use this daily on my face, 'cause it doubles nicely as a make-up base and sunscreen. I've been using this for a couple of days now and my skin hasn't had any reaction (itchiness, redness, oiliness, etc.) to it so far. However, I might not recommend this to people with alcohol-sensitive skin because Allie does seem to have quite a percentage of it (just my judgment by its smell).

I purchased this from Ebay for $30.99 with free-shipping from Japan. It's actually on the expensive side for me and for a cheaper alternative, I would recommend my previous sunscreen, Biore Sarasara UV Aqua Rich Waterly Essence (It's $20 cheaper!)