Clarins SOS Primer Review

Clarins SOS Primer
8.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
6.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Ingredients

Clarins SOS Primer Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Phenyl Trimethicone, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Alcohol, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Mica, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Sodium Chloride, Silica, Bisabolol, Fragrance, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Propylene Carbonate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Benzoate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Phenoxyethanol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Lapsana Communis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract, Pancratium Maritimum Extract, Linalool, Citronellol, Limonene, Eugenol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sea Salt
Review

Does Clarins SOS Primer Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Clarins SOS Primer has to offer:
 
✅ Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 8.0 out of 10.

  

Key Benefits of Clarins SOS Primer

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Clarins SOS Primer:
 

🔵🔵 Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Clarins SOS Primer is intensely moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 8.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%), and a high occlusivity of 6.0 out of 10, entirely due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈9.0%) and Phenyl Trimethicone (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want intense hydration in a rich yet not overly thick formula. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing.

The product’s occlusive profile suggests a texture that is rich and creamy but not overly thick, offering the potential to absorb into the skin without leaving a greasy afterfeel in most cases.

This product may also be a good choice for people with dry (but not very dry) skin for daily hydration, as it strikes a balance between significant moisturizing potential and a texture that is not too thick.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Clarins SOS Primer

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Clarins SOS Primer to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Clarins SOS Primer is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, this ingredient does not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Pros & Cons of Clarins SOS Primer

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Clarins SOS Primer to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ Perfect for moisturizing normal to dry skin
Rich and creamy texture without being overly thick
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Clarins SOS Primer

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Clarins SOS Primer
, as a moisturizer, is ideal for normal to dry skin, combining a very high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients in a rich yet not overly thick formula.
 
That said, there are some things about Clarins SOS Primer worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Clarins SOS Primer is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Phenyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Stearalkonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Synthetic Fluorphlogopite
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Hexyl Cinnamal
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Butylphenyl Methylpropional
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
Function:
Origin:
Lapsana Communis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pancratium Maritimum Extract
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Eugenol
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sea Salt
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
10.9
6
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
12.0
9.0
3.0
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
8.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 10.9 10
10.0
6
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 12.0 20
6.0
9.0
3.0
Moisturizing rating
8.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 10.9 10
10
All humectants
10.9
6
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
3
All occlusives 12.0 20
6.0
All occlusives
12.0
9.0
3.0
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
All antioxidants 0.3 3 No
All antioxidants
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.6 5 No
All soothing
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Dimethicone
Est. %9
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Phenyl TrimethiconeA silicone fluid that is used as an occlusive moisturizer. It applies smoothly to the skin and reduces the tack associated with organic oils.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Alcohol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
AlcoholAn effective antimicrobial ingredient that kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. It is also an excellent solvent and astringent. Alcohol helps to create lighter and less viscous products. It can, however, be dehydrating and skin-sensitizing.
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-18/18 DimethiconeA silicone-based emulsifier that has the ability to create non-sticky and non-greasy formulas.
Mica
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
MicaA mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Sodium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Chloride

You’re definitely familiar with sodium chloride, even if you don’t think you are. It’s table salt! Salt works well with some cleansing ingredients (surfactants) to thicken them into gels. It also acts as a stabilizer for water-in-oil emulsions.

Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.

Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder trade secret law, manufacturers have the right not to disclose what exactly went into the fragrance and use the unspecific word Fragrance or Parfum instead. Many fragrances are highly allergenic.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Stearalkonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearalkonium Hectorite
Synthetic Fluorphlogopite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Synthetic FluorphlogopiteAlso known as synthetic mica, this ingredient’s best property is its ability to form thin, sheet-like crystals. This gives products (mostly makeup) great slip.
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Hexyl Cinnamal
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexyl Cinnamal

A synthetic scent ingredient that produces a jasmine-like fragrance. According to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), hexyl cinnamal is a skin sensitizer and allergen and so its use in skincare should be limited.

Benzyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl BenzoateA fragrance ingredient with a fruity and woody scent. It is considered an allergen according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), which means that care must be taken when determining usage levels in skincare products.
Butylphenyl Methylpropional
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Butylphenyl Methylpropional

A synthetic fragrance ingredient used to recreate the scent of lilies, this ingredient also features fresh, green, and powdery notes. Butylphenyl Methylpropional was recently labeled as Toxic to Reproduction in the EU and will be banned in 2022.

Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alpha-Isomethyl IononeA fragrance ingredient that is supplied as a pale, yellow liquid. The scent it emits is very clean and features notes of violet and orris. Alpha-isomethyl is also used as a flavoring agent in lip care products and even in some foods and drinks.
Lapsana Communis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lapsana Communis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract
Pancratium Maritimum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pancratium Maritimum Extract
Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Eugenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eugenol

A fragrant liquid that can be found naturally in the essential oils derived from cloves, cinnamon, basil, and bay leaf. It has a spicy and warm scent. People with sensitive skin should consider doing a patch test first, as it is a potential irritant.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Sea Salt
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sea SaltA mixture of minerals from saltwater. The studies show that sea salt may help to restore skin health by improving skin barrier function, improving moisturization, reducing inflammation, and reducing skin roughness and redness.