The late afternoon sun, a copper disc sinking towards the Pacific, always seems to find the gaps in my meticulously applied sunscreen. I was on a shoot in Malibu last week; chasing the light, sweating, and squinting. At the end of the day? A predictable, angry pink patch blooming on my cheekbone. Not ideal when you’re responsible for makeup continuity on a high-profile commercial.

Sunscreen, in my world, isn’t a cute accessory. It’s a vital tool, akin to a light meter or a well-sharpened lip pencil. And Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55? It’s a workhorse. I’ve used it religiously for years, not just on myself, but also in my kit for talent. The “dry touch” part is key. That’s because the last thing anyone wants on set is a greasy face reflecting every stray ray of light back at the camera. That gives us no control.

It’s got a broad-spectrum formula—critical for blocking both UVA rays (the aging culprits) and UVB rays (the sunburners). SPF 55 is a solid number, offering excellent protection, although I find the “broad spectrum” claim more reassuring than the SPF rating itself. I’d take the former over the latter any day of the week. This particular travel-size tube, the one I keep shoved in my camera bag? Its perfect for touch-ups.

I’ve experimented with a lot of sunscreens. The pricey Japanese ones can be heavenly, weightless and with innovative textures, but the price tag? Ouch. I’m on a makeup budget that would make you laugh. Neutrogena is accessible, reliable, and it actually works.

The texture is the thing. It’s a slightly viscous liquid, not as silky as some of the high-end brands, but it spreads easily and doesn’t leave a chalky cast – a common problem with zinc oxide based formulas. This matters on set. The actors have the camera in their face. A bad layer job? Ruins the makeup. And with this? The makeup can go right on top. Seamless.

However, the bottle, especially the travel-size, can leak in a warm kit bag. Not ideal when you’re trying to keep things clean. My workaround? I wrap it tightly in a small ziplock bag just in case. It’s a small price to pay for the sun protection I need.

For anyone who works outdoors, or spends significant time in the sun, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin that can’t handle a lot of added ingredients? This is a no-brainer. This travel size is perfect for the glove box, the makeup bag, and everything in between. Go buy it. You won’t regret it.