Rationale #3 Tinted Serum SPF 50+

What is Rationale #3 Tinted Serum SPF 50+?

Vivian Bucay, MD: The Rationale #3 Tinted Serum SPF 50+ is an elegant, lightweight serum that provides broad spectrum photoprotection along with protection from pollution. It also contains ingredients that calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. This serum provides complete environmental protection.

Are there any active ingredients?

Dr. Bucay: The #3 Tinted Serum SPF 50+ is formulated with a liquid zinc fusion technology (24% zinc oxide), iron oxides, and melanin. The zinc fusion technology provides a filter against ultraviolet B (UVB), ultraviolet A (UVA), visible light, and infrared radiation (IR), while reducing signs of redness and inflammation and strengthening barrier function. Iron oxides protects against damage triggered by visible light while protecting against DNA damage and oxidative stress. Melanin, a photoprotective pigment, acts as the body’s own built-in UV filter and also protects against high-energy visible light. Acetyl tetrapeptide-22 provides thermal protection from IR and increases natural levels of heat shock proteins responsible for creating a protective shield around skin cells. Hydrolyzed keratin protects and strengthens the skin by acting as a shield when skin cells are exposed to the sun. A 3D Shield Technology (sodium potassium aluminum silicate) forms ceramic microspheres, which provide a protective physical shield from pollution. The vitamin D precursor 7-dehydrocholesterol converts sunlight to vitamin D when exposed to UV, while also soothing redness and inflammation and strengthening skin integrity.

How did you hear about this Australian skincare brand?

Dr. Bucay: I learned about Rationale in 2015 while attending a conference in Sydney [Australia]. In a lecture, Rationale founder Richard Parker discussed sunscreen formulations, specifically the advantages of superfluid formulations. Until then, I had recommended sunscreens based on their ingredients and not the formulation, ie, cream, lotion, spray, gel, or powder. Each Rationale product is formulated with actives that mirror the quantities and ratios found in the skin to work synergistically and optimize skin function. Mr. Parker has recently launched a Rationale medical skincare line available only to medical professionals and I am excited to be able to offer this line in my two practices in San Antonio. As the first dermatology practice in the US to dispense Rationale, we have been offering the #3 Tinted Serum SPF 50+ since January 2023. However, I have been recommending it for the last 8 years.

Do you use it yourself?

Dr. Bucay: Yes, every day, and I love it!

How does Rationale #3 Tinted Serum SPF 50+ stand out from other serums on the market?

Dr. Bucay: It is lightweight and doesn’t leave a white cast, making it suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types. It is the sunscreen that everyone wants to use, and my patients are loving it. The Tinted Serum SPF 50+ is suitable for all patients, including men. Due to the elegant texture, we are finding that patients who don’t like using sunscreen on a regular basis are more likely to apply this product every day.

How does skincare fit in with your practice philosophy?

Dr. Bucay: Healthy skin is the foundation of good health. When possible, I like to include a discussion of the importance of skin care with every patient. There is a huge interest in skin care, and unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation circulating through various channels. Good skin care is essential in terms of prevention, treatment, and maintenance. Skin care doesn’t have to be complicated, but it must be used consistently to be effective.