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How Does The NEW Ultra Violette Queen Screen Compare To The OG?

By Vanessa Zaree and Victoria Hall

When Ultra Violette bounced onto the British SPF scene back in 2020 it fast became the brand to know about – and use. It wasn’t just the cobalt blue packaging with fun coloured accent that made the brand’s Skinscreens an instant hit both on and offline, Ultra Violette’s comfortable formulas got people hooked. There was one particular product that people fell hard for and that was the Queen Screen.

A lightweight, glow-giving serum and provided factor 50 protection one pipette at a time, Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Skinscreen became the SPF to use. It disappeared last summer though and some of us pined for it while others moved on swiftly to the Ultra Violette Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen SPF 50+.

Queen Screen is back though and it’s promising to be better than ever with the inclusion of more skin nourishing ingredients and the same complexion-boosting glow. Whenever a product is reformulated though, fans of the OG just want to know how the new version comparisons. So, we decided to ask two Space NK team members to review Ultra Violette’s Queen Screen and share their honest thoughts. While Vanessa has used Queen Screen, Victoria is new to the SPF serum. Here’s everything you need to know…

Vanessa’s Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Skinscreen Review

• Skin type: Oily

• The product: Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Serum SKINSCREEN™, € 44,00

Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50 review | Space NK

Ultra Violette's original Queen Screen has been one of my favourite SPF formulas over the past few years – I’ve hit pan on it at least once, which is quite a big deal when you work in beauty and are constantly trying new products. I always loved how dewy it made my skin look and how well it worked over my skincare and layered under makeup. So, I was eager for it to return in its new formula!

Products getting reformulated isn't something that phases me anymore – the beauty industry has come a long way and so many formulas get regular upgrades for the better without obvious differences. And I'm happy to report that being reunited with Queen Screen was, essentially, just as I remembered it.

Before and after Ultra Violette Queen Screen | Space NK

Vanessa before and after using Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF

The glossy finish is exactly the same, and no balling or piling has occurred with any of my other products. If anything, the texture (which still feels great on the skin) might feel a little thicker than before. However, that could be my mind playing tricks on me as I haven't used it in a while, and I've tried a few lightweight sunscreens lately.

Either way, I'm delighted to have Queen Screen as one of my SPF options in my routine again – I’m going on a sunny break soon and I'll definitely be packing it!

Victoria’s Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Skinscreen Review

• Skin type: Dry to combination

• The product: Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Serum SKINSCREEN™, € 44,00

Despite writing about the important of wearing sunscreen every day for over 10 years now, I’m not brilliant at using SPF all year round. I find I breakout more, SPFs seem to dry out my skin and I hate the mask-like feeling so many formulas leave you with. As I’ve hit my mid-thirties, I’ve come to realise this was a mistake and I should have used SPF every day to stop pigmentation and dark spots. Alas, I’m trying to do better and am actively seeking out more SPFs to try.

While I somehow missed the hype around the Queen Screen a few years ago and opted for Ultra Violette’s Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen, I was keen to try the new formula. My initial thoughts were that it was richer than I had expected, but very easy to apply and it absorbed into my skin easily.

Victoria before and after using Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF

After a few seconds the sheen disappeared as the product absorbed and I wouldn’t say I noticed any real glow. My skin felt nice though. As someone with slightly dry skin, this SPF felt hydrating and smoothing. Despite the rich texture, I didn’t find it heavy or cloying.

I’ve only used it for a week, so I haven’t seen any real difference in my skin. I haven’t broken out though and my skin doesn’t feel dry, which are two winning factors for me. I’ll keep using this product – hopefully everyday – and will definitely consider repurchasing it as it’s easy to use and feels nice.

The Verdict On Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Skinscreen

If you were a fan of the original Ultra Violette Queen Screen, you’ll be pleased to hear that Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Serum SKINSCREEN™, € 44,00 is pretty much the same product – at least according to Vanessa. Give or take a slightly thicker formula, this sunscreen offers will give you the same protection and finish as the OG with the added benefit of vitamin E and F to help nourish and bolster your skin barrier.

More From Ultra Violette

Ultra Violette might be famous for its wide selection of Skinscreens, but we want to put the spotlight on Ultra Violette Sheen Screen, € 20,00. Available in six different shades, these lip tints are jam packed with shea and cacao seed butter to hydrate and smooth your lips. The factor 50 protection is a game-changer for anyone who suffers with coldsores during the summer months too.