Daily exposure to environmental stressors such as UV rays, pollution, and oxidative stress can accelerate visible signs of aging, weaken the skin’s natural defenses, and disrupt moisture balance.
While sunscreen is essential for protecting against harmful UV radiation, many formulas fall short on hydration and long-term skin support. Conventional sunscreens often rely on chemical filters that may irritate skin, clog pores, or cause sensitivity — and some raise broader health and environmental concerns. There’s a clear need for a gentle, mineral-based option that not only protects but also nourishes the skin, supports the barrier, and maintains comfort and balance throughout the day.
This product is a part of the Plexus® Skin Health Combo.
Product At A Glance
Use With Other Plexus® Products: Sun Shield is designed to work seamlessly with the Plexus Skin Health Combo— as well as our Skin Health Line add-ons — and is compatible with all Plexus products. |
How To Use: Adults, adolescents and children over 6 months of age: Apply as needed. Gently massage three to four pumps into the face and neck until absorbed. Use as the last step of your morning skincare routine. |
Pro Tips: For best results, warm Sun Shield between your hands before applying. The warmth helps the formula spread more evenly, absorb more quickly, and minimize any white cast for a smoother finish. Once applied, let it fully absorb before moving on to makeup — it doubles as a hydrating base that creates a smooth, even canvas while delivering SPF protection. |
Best Time To Use: Use in the morning as the final step in your AM skincare routine. |
Dermatologist tested, non-comedogenic, cruelty-free*, non-GMO, hypoallergenic, and free from fragrances, harsh surfactants, phthalates, parabens, and other potentially irritating ingredients, including SLS and SLES. *Finished product not tested on animals. |
Available Markets: Canada, United States, Australia (Not for Resale), New Zealand (Not for Resale). |
Who Should Use Sun Shield?
Sun Shield is an ideal choice for anyone looking to protect against environmental stressors and premature skin aging while locking in hydration for soft, resilient skin. This 2-in-1 mineral sunscreen and moisturizer features a unique blend: gentle zinc oxide and plant stem cells help shield against the visible effects of daily aggressors, while skin-nourishing squalane delivers weightless moisture. The carefully balanced formula supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier, promotes a healthy microbiome, and leaves a natural matte finish.
Did You Know?
- UV rays – the main cause of premature skin aging – can penetrate glass, meaning you still need SPF even when you’re indoors near a window1.
- Health Canada recognizes zinc oxide as an approved natural ingredient in sunscreens. Unlike many chemical filters, it doesn’t need stabilizers or combinations to offer broad-spectrum coverage, making it a go-to for sensitive skin and daily use2,3.
- Hydrated skin has a stronger barrier function. When the skin barrier is intact and well-moisturized, it’s better at preventing water loss and defending against environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution4.
- Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It helps visibly plump and hydrate skin by attracting and retaining moisture5.
Sources:
- HealthLinkBC
- Canada.ca
- Mitchnick MA, Fairhurst D, Pinnell SR. Microfine zinc oxide (Z-cote) as a photostable UVA/UVB sunblock agent. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1999 Jan;40(1):85-90. doi: 10.1016 s01909622(99)70532-3. PMID: 9922017.
- Baker P, Huang C, Radi R, Moll SB, Jules E, Arbiser JL. Skin Barrier Function: The Interplay of Physical, Chemical, and Immunologic Properties. Cells. 2023 Nov 30;12(23):2745. doi: 10.3390/cells12232745. PMID: 38067173; PMCID: PMC10706187.
- Harvard Health. Published 2020.
Key Benefits, Features, and Ingredients
Key Benefits
- Defends against sun damage with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection that deflects deep-penetrating UVA and surface-burning UVB rays for healthier-looking skin over time.
- Shields from environmental stressors and neutralizes free radicals that can accelerate premature skin aging, preserving natural vitality.
- Delivers deep, lasting hydration to maintain a noticeably plump, supple complexion.
- Strengthens and reinforces the protective moisture barrier to keep skin balanced and resilient.
- Boosts overall skin health, supporting a smooth, even, and revitalized appearance.
- Soothes and calms, leaving a soft, matte finish without greasiness.
Key Features
- Formulated with zinc oxide, a gentle mineral sunscreen that offers protection from sun damage, helping decrease the risk of sunburn and premature aging.
- Hydrates and reinforces skin with a blend of hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalane to lock in moisture and prevent dryness.
- Shields against the visibly damaging effects of free radicals and pollution with antioxidants and plant stem cells to enhance resilience and combat visible signs of aging for firmer skin with reduced wrinkles.
- Supports a healthy microbiome with prebiotics that nourish beneficial microorganisms and maintain skin balance.
- Non-greasy matte cream offers generous coverage and works seamlessly under makeup, doubling as a primer.
- Kind-to-Biome certified formula undergoes rigorous testing to maintain healthy skin microbiome balance — supporting beneficial bacteria, discouraging problematic microbes, and preserving essential microbial diversity.
- Dermatologist tested for gentleness and suitable for all skin types.
- Non-comedogenic formula doesn't clog pores for clear, breathable skin.
- Cruelty-free*, non-GMO, hypoallergenic, and free from fragrances, harsh surfactants, phthalates, parabens, and other potentially irritating ingredients, including SLS and SLES.
*Finished product not tested on animals
Key Ingredients
- Argania spinosa (argan) sprout cell extract: This argan tree-derived extract supports vitality by rejuvenating skin stem cell activity while complementing natural renewal processes to reduce the visible signs of aging. Meanwhile, its antioxidant properties help defend skin from visible damage caused by environmental stressors while promoting a more radiant, youthful complexion.
- Botanical wellness blend: Chia seed oil, rich in omega fatty acids, helps support the skin’s moisture barrier for a soft, nourished feel. White tea extract, known for its antioxidant properties, helps defend skin against the visibly damaging effects of environmental stressors while aloe barbadensis leaf juice provides a soothing touch, helping to calm and comfort.
- Inulin: This prebiotic supports beneficial skin bacteria, helping to promote a balanced skin barrier. By nurturing the skin’s microbiome, it contributes to a hydrated, smooth, and calm-looking complexion — ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
- Multi-dimensional hyaluronic acid complex: Immediate plumping and long-lasting hydration are delivered through four forms of hyaluronic acid — Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer — each working at different depths within the skin.
- Palmitoyl tripeptide-37: A cutting-edge peptide believed to support the skin’s natural renewal process, helping to promote a smoother, more refined appearance over time.
- Squalane: A lightweight yet deeply hydrating emollient that mimics the skin’s natural lipids, helping to lock in moisture and maintain a soft, supple feel without a greasy finish.
- Triple ceramide technology: A sophisticated blend of skin-identical ceramides (NP, AP, and EOP) works with cholesterol and phytosphingosine to strengthen and protect the skin's moisture barrier.
- Zinc oxide: A mineral sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, offering gentle yet reliable defense ideal for daily use — even on sensitive skin. A slight white cast or slow absorption is normal — it’s how zinc forms a physical shield. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV radiation, zinc oxide offers a clean alternative, resting on the skin's surface to create a shield that deflects the sun’s rays.
Using Sun Shield
Here are commonly asked questions about how best to use and experience Sun Shield:
Question | Answer |
Is Sun Shield suitable for all skin types? | Yes! Our formulations are designed to be gentle, effective, and non-irritating for all skin types. |
How do I apply Sun Shield? | Apply three to four pumps onto the face and neck, massaging thoroughly until absorbed. Use as the final step in your morning skincare routine. |
Are there any tips to reduce potential white cast? | Try warming it up first. Rub Sun Shield between your hands before applying — this helps the formula spread more evenly and absorb more quickly, reducing the appearance of any white cast and giving you a smoother finish. |
Can this replace my makeup primer? | Yes! Once absorbed fully, Sun Shield doesn’t clog pores and delivers a smooth, hydrated base that creates an even canvas for makeup while providing SPF protection. |
Should I still apply Sun Shield if I am indoors? | Yes. Even if you’re not sunbathing or spending long hours outside, your skin is still exposed to UV rays. Whether you’re driving, sitting near a window, or simply walking to your car or into a building, these rays can still reach your skin and contribute to premature aging. Daily use of Sun Shield helps protect against this subtle, everyday damage while also defending your skin from environmental stressors and free radicals — all of which can speed up visible signs of aging. |
About the Formula
Here are commonly asked questions about the formula for Sun Shield:
Question | Answer |
Why do you use zinc oxide instead of chemical sunscreen filters? | We use zinc oxide because it offers broad-spectrum sun protection while aligning with our clean formulation standards. Unlike chemical filters, which absorb UV rays and can sometimes irritate the skin or raise health and environmental concerns, zinc oxide sits on the skin’s surface and reflects UV rays. It’s a gentle, effective mineral filter for sensitive skin and non-comedogenic. |
Is your zinc oxide non-nano? | Yes. We use non-nano zinc oxide, meaning the particles are not small enough to penetrate the skin. Instead, they sit on the surface, forming a physical barrier that reflects and scatters UV rays. This makes our SPF effective, supporting broad-spectrum protection without compromising skin integrity. |
How should I store Sun Shield? | Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency and texture. |
Manufacturing, Health, and Ingredients FAQs
When It Comes To: | The Facts Are: |
Can I use Sun Shield with my medication? | Sun Shield is formulated with hydrating, clean, nourishing ingredients — but it’s always a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before introducing new skincare products. They can help ensure that the products are a good fit for your unique needs and any treatments you're currently using. |
Using beyond the expiration date | Although products can be applied past the expiration date, it’s possible the concentration of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients may diminish over time. |
Product efficacy |
Plexus meets or exceeds all regulatory standards and guidelines for product efficacy. Plexus also takes great care in the manufacturing process to prevent allergen cross-contamination. View What steps does Plexus take to prevent allergen cross-contamination in the manufacturing process? |
Medical concerns |
Anyone who has an allergy, injury, illness, or other medical condition should always consult with a physician prior to taking Plexus products or starting any exercise regimen. Also consult with your physician if you have questions or concerns with medication interactions. View What if I have a medical, injury, illness, pregnancy, nursing, or allergy concern about a Plexus® product or the ingredients? |
Location of lot number & expiration date | Lot number and Expiration date are found on the crimped end of the tube |
Age recommendation | 6+ months |
Can pregnant or nursing women use Sun Shield? | As with any new skincare product, we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before starting use during pregnancy or while nursing. They can provide personalized advice to ensure the products are gentle enough for you and your baby. |