Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 15

BEAUTY ALMANAC TESTED

SUMMARY: Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Water Gel with sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15 moisturizes dry skin to keep it looking smooth and hydrated with daily use. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid helps skin retain moisture while SPF 15 protection helps protect skin from the sun's harmful rays.

ABOUT THE BRAND: Neutrogena is an American brand of products that includes facial products, hair care products, color cosmetics, and products for the skin. From the makers of the dermatologist-recommended brand Neutrogena comes a breakthrough in anti-aging—a skincare line so advanced that it’s clinically proven to deliver visible and lasting results. 

USE: Ideal for use as a daily moisturizer, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 15 is oil-free and so ideal for wearing under make up. It can be applied daily to face and neck after cleansing.

NUMBER OF TIMES TESTED FOR THIS REVIEW: 10x over the last 6 months, purchased from a local supermarket.

AROMA & TEXTURE: The moisturizer has a light, fresh scent similar to floral aquatic fragrances. The aroma is imperceptible upon application. The texture is non-greasy and lightweight leaving only a slight residue on skin.

INGREDIENTS: Avobenzone (2%) Homosalate (4%) Octisalate (4%) Octocrylene (2%), Water, Glycerin, Caprylyl Methicone, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Crosspolymer, Benzyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance, Sodium Hydroxide, Blue 1, Red 40.

ABOUT THE PACKAGING: Simple plastic tube with capped pump applicator.

WHERE CAN I BUY IT? Available at Neutrogena.com, Amazon.com, Ulta.com and other websites, ~$20 USD for 1.7 ozs.

PROS & CONS: Somewhere between a sunscreen and a moisturizer, the addition of hyaluronic acid is a plus. The product smells great but for those averse to scents, the aroma doesn't linger. Ideal for daily use, the oil-free formula allows it to be easily used with make-up. Free of parabens and phthalates.

Reviewers across the web rate the product highly for being so lightweight and not causing breakouts, especially for those with sensitive skin. Others complained of drying and breakouts and wished the SPF was higher for full sun protection. One One Wal-Mart.com reviewer noted, "The ingredient list is full of preservatives, one example is Methyl Methacrylate, extremely irritating to the eyes. Pentylene Glycol, is used in many skin care products and may aggravate one who has a skin condition known as dermatitis."

THE BOTTOM LINE: A good choice for an SPF moisturizer that is oil-free and contains hyaluronic acid, the price at major online retailers is often significantly lower than the brand's website and as such the product can be found at a good value.