Dermalogica Clearing Defense SPF30 59ml

Mattifying SPF day cream for shiny skin

The most overlooked step in an acne routine is paradoxically the most important: sun protection. Many teenagers and young adults with blemishes skip SPF out of fear of extra shine or clogged pores, while UV radiation is actually a main cause of visible scars and pigmentation spots that acne leaves long after it’s gone. No SPF means all those salicylic acid efforts literally evaporate in the sunlight.

The Clearing Defense SPF30 solves exactly this dilemma. An ultra-light, mattifying formula that provides a matte finish all day thanks to natural tapioca starch — no greasy shine, no white cast, no heavy feeling under makeup. At the same time, it offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB, plus antioxidants like willow bark, green tea, and vitamin C that protect the skin from air pollution. No separate moisturizer needed: this product hydrates and protects in one step.

Advantages

• Protects against UVA and UVB with broad-spectrum SPF30
• Reduces shine with natural tapioca starch for a long-lasting matte finish
• Does not clog pores, even with daily use on acne-prone skin
• Protects against air pollution with willow bark, green tea, and vitamin C
• 2-in-1 formula that replaces both moisturizer and sun protection

Active ingredients

Homosalate, Octocrylene, Octisalate & Avobenzone (UV filters): A carefully selected combination of four chemical UV filters that together provide broad-spectrum protection. Avobenzone mainly absorbs UVA (the rays that penetrate deep into the skin and cause pigmentation spots and aging), while the other three filters block UVB (the rays that cause sunburn). The combination provides an SPF30 level sufficient for daily exposure.

Tapioca Starch: A natural ingredient derived from the cassava root that absorbs excess sebum on the skin’s surface. Unlike synthetic silicone powders, tapioca works all day without leaving an artificial layer — hence the typical matte finish that remains visible even after six to eight hours.

Willow Bark Extract & Green Tea: Two plant-based antioxidants with complementary effects. Willow bark naturally contains salicin, a mild cleansing molecule related to salicylic acid, while green tea protects against free radicals from air pollution and UV exposure. Especially relevant in urban environments where fine dust contributes to impurities.

Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate): A stable, gentle form of vitamin C that helps protect the skin from oxidative damage and fades existing pigmentation spots. Combined with SPF, vitamin C works significantly more effectively than alone — a synergy that makes this formula especially valuable for skin with post-acne pigmentation.

TT Technology & Bisabolol: TT Technology focuses on the natural skin microbiome and helps maintain the balance between good and bad bacteria. Bisabolol — derived from chamomile — soothes irritated skin and prevents redness with daily use. Together, they make the SPF suitable for sensitive acne-prone skin.

How to use it

1. Cleanse your face and optionally apply a serum of your choice, such as the Breakout Clearing Booster.
2. Press a generous amount of about two fingertip-sized portions into your palms.
3. Distribute with upward, gentle movements over the face, neck, and optionally the upper chest.
4. Apply at least 30 minutes before sun exposure for optimal effect.
5. Reapply every two hours during intense exposure, or after sweating, swimming, or wiping the face.

Suitable for

• Teenagers and young adults with acne-prone or shiny skin.
• Oily and combination skin in need of mattifying day care.
• For those who want to prevent or fade post-inflammatory pigmentation after pimples.
• Usable under makeup as a matte base for foundation or concealer.
• Not ideal for very dry skin — in that case, combine with a hydrating lotion underneath.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a separate day cream in addition to this SPF?

No, that is intentionally the strength of this product. Clearing Defense SPF30 is a 2-in-1 formula that provides both moisturizer and sun protection. For most people with normal to oily skin, this is sufficient as the only care step in the morning. However, if you have drier skin, first apply a light hydrating lotion and finish with this SPF.

Does this SPF leave a white cast on the skin?

No. The formula uses only chemical UV filters (no mineral ones like zinc oxide), so the product absorbs transparently without leaving a white film. This makes it suitable for all skin types and tones, without the white cast sometimes seen with mineral sunscreens.

Is this SPF safe to use every day, even in winter?

Absolutely, and it is even strongly recommended. UV radiation is present in winter and on cloudy days as well and can darken existing pigmentation spots. By using it daily in all seasons, you prevent pimples from leaving lasting marks and maintain a more even skin tone.

Can I combine this SPF with the Breakout Clearing Booster or the Post-Breakout Fix?

Yes, that is a logical combination. First apply the Booster or Post-Breakout Fix on clean skin, let it absorb for a minute, and finish with the Clearing Defense SPF30 as the last step. Use a maximum of one active serum per routine to avoid overloading the skin.