Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25

Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25
10.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
25
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25:

  • Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 10.0 out of 10.
  • Moderate sun protection for most daily activities or short periods spent outdoors.

Perfect moisturizer for dry to very skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 is exceptionally moisturizing, with the highest possible moisturizing rating of 10.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This is one of the most moisturizing products on the market, with a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈22.0%), and a maximum occlusivity of 10 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Trioctyldodecyl Citrate (est. ≈30.0%) and Dimethicone (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with dry to very dry skin who want intense hydration. It combines a high concentration of humectants with an exceptional level of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing specifically for very dry skin.

The occlusive profile of Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for very dry skin.

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

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

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

Moderate sun protection for short outdoor activities

 

Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 25 has an SPF of 25 and provides moderate sun protection. It is suitable for individuals with medium to darker skin tones who are less prone to sunburn and those engaging in short outdoor activities such as walking or brief errands, as well as cloudy days when UV exposure is less intense.

It helps protect against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer by damaging the outer layers of the skin. When labeled as broad-spectrum, it also defends against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and cause premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term cellular damage.

For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

However, if you spend a substantial amount of time outdoors, it is better to use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
30
22
11
7.3
6.9
3
2
1.5
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Trioctyldodecyl Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Steareth-2
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Heptanoate
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Gentiana Lutea Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Function:
Origin:
Betula Alba Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Laminaria Saccharina Extract
Function:
Origin:
Saccharomyces Lysate Extract
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Tristearate
Function:
Origin:
Linoleic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-51
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium RNA
Function:
Origin:
PEG-40 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Phytantriol
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Cellulose
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Tocopheryl Maleate
Function:
Origin:
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Linolenic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Pantethine
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Ceteth-2
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Function:
Origin:
Steareth-20
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol Dicaprate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Nylon-12
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Nylon-6
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
24.7
22
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
35.8
30.0
3.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
10.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 24.7 10
10.0
22
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 35.8 20
10.0
30.0
3.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
10.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
22
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 24.7 10
10
All humectants
24.7
22
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
30
3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 35.8 20
10.0
All occlusives
35.8
30.0
3.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.4 3 No
All antioxidants
2.4
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
0.3
Betula Alba Bark Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
0.3
Ascorbyl Tocopheryl Maleate
0.3
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
0.3
BHT
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.1 5 No
All soothing
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Trioctyldodecyl Citrate
Est. %30
Function
Origin
Trioctyldodecyl Citrate
Butylene Glycol
Est. %22
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.

Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %11
Function
Origin
CyclopentasiloxaneA lightweight, fast-spreading emollient that leaves a very soft and silky after-feel on the skin. Supplied as a clear and colorless liquid, cyclopentasiloxane is often used as a solvent to dissolve other silicones in.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %7.3
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.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %6.9
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Dimethicone
Est. %3
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.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %2
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.
Steareth-2
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Steareth-2A waxy, naturally derived or synthetic emulsifier that can handle extreme formula conditions such as a low pH. It offers emulsifying properties to a formula by helping oils and water to mix.
Stearyl Heptanoate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Stearyl Heptanoate
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.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
Gentiana Lutea Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gentiana Lutea Root ExtractA fragrant extract from the roots of the great yellow gentian. It contains some of the most bitter compounds (amarogentin and gentiopicrin) and has a spicy, earthy scent with a hint of citrus.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf ExtractA soothing and astringent extract derived from the fragrant, spicy leaves of rosemary. It has strong antioxidant properties. Rosemary extract can reduce signs of inflammation and also acts as an emollient and antimicrobial agent.
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hordeum Vulgare ExtractA soothing and emollient extract derived from barley, a cereal grain commonly used in the breadmaking and beer fermentation process. It contains a beneficial polysaccharide called beta-glucan, as well as flavonoids and organic acids.
Betula Alba Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Betula Alba Bark ExtractAn extract of white birch with a woody aroma that contains powerful wound healing, astringent and anti-inflammatory terpenoids, as well as tannins. It is suitable for irritated, inflamed, and problematic skin.
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit ExtractA soothing, cooling, and emollient extract derived from cucumbers. Cucumber has been used in skincare for centuries and is used to treat skin problems such as eye swelling, sunburn, and itchy and irritated skin.
Laminaria Saccharina Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laminaria Saccharina ExtractA soothing extract derived from a species of edible brown seaweed called sugar kelp or Devil’s apron (due to its shape and large surface). It contains water-binding and soothing polysaccharides, as well as many beneficial minerals.
Saccharomyces Lysate Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharomyces Lysate ExtractA mixture of yeast cell fragments with humectant moisturizing properties. It contains many beneficial compounds, including a wound healing polysaccharide called beta-glucan, peptides, and various minerals and vitamins.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) SeedcakeThe solid remaining after the oil pressing of sunflower seeds. The seed cake is used in skincare for its grainy structure as an abrasive ingredient in peelings. It leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft due to the sunflower oil content.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Sorbitan Tristearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Tristearate
Linoleic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Linoleic AcidA fatty acid isolated from various plant oils (notably evening primrose, safflower, grape seed, and sunflower oil). It is an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that doesn't leave an oily, sticky residue and is especially suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Polyquaternium-51
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-51A biocompatible phospholipid copolymer that is designed to mimic the lipid-based cell membrane found in human skin. Its main function is as a humectant moisturizer.
Caprylyl Methicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl MethiconeA liquid silicone with occlusive moisturizing properties. Being compatible with natural oils is a challenge for most silicones, but caprylyl methicone plays well with all types of oils.
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SorbitolA sweet-tasting alcohol derived from glucose. Aside from its sweet taste (for which it is used as a very common sweetener), Sorbitol is also very good at retaining water and is used in skincare as a humectant.
Sodium RNA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium RNA
PEG-40 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-40 StearateThis PEG, or polyethylene glycol, is excellent at emulsifying water and oil together to form oil-in-water emulsions. Due to its water-loving nature, PEG-40 stearate can also act as a cleansing agent.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Phytantriol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phytantriol
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Cellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CelluloseA natural ingredient that can create water-based gels, absorb oils, and exfoliate the skin. One of the main functions of cellulose is as a bulking and viscosity controlling agent. Cellulose can also modify the slip aesthetics and act as an opacifying agent.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium Ascorbyl PhosphateOne of the best-researched derivatives of vitamin C. It is more resistant to light and air and retains all the properties of ascorbic acid – antioxidant, collagen-boosting, and anti-pigmentation, but with less irritation.
Stearyl Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearyl Dimethicone
Ascorbyl Tocopheryl Maleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl Tocopheryl Maleate
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nordihydroguaiaretic AcidA powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemical obtained from Creosote bush. It can also be created synthetically.
Linolenic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Linolenic AcidAn essential polyunsaturated occlusive fatty acid isolated from various plant oils. It is necessary for the correct barrier function of the skin and moisturizes without leaving a sticky after-feel.
Pantethine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PantethineA synthetic emollient that provides a soft and smooth feeling to skin. Most emollients are oil-based, but pantethine dissolves in water.
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.

Ceteth-2
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceteth-2
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-18/18 DimethiconeA silicone-based emulsifier that has the ability to create non-sticky and non-greasy formulas.
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate
Steareth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Steareth-20A white to light brown reaction product of a clear gas and stearyl alcohol. Like the other steareth ingredients, steareth-20 is a waxy emulsifier that can help to form a stable emulsion, even in extreme conditions.
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Propylene Glycol Dicaprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene Glycol DicaprateA thin, non-viscous emollient that gives shine with a smooth, non-greasy, and slightly powdery after-feel. It is often compared to mineral oil and can be used to replace this heavier oil without feeling overly greasy.
Sodium Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium StearateA naturally derived thickener with emulsifying and cleansing properties.
Nylon-12
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nylon-12A synthetic powdered ingredient that imparts unique sensorial characteristics due to its microsphere structure. It can also control viscosity by bulking up the oil phase of a skincare product.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Aluminum Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum HydroxideA white mineral powder, also known as alumina, that is derived from aluminum metal. It is frequently used as an abrasive in exfoliating products and as a thickener. Aluminum oxide is also a great opacifier.
Nylon-6
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nylon-6
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
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.
BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BHTAn antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor.
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.
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)A black colorant also known as black iron oxide used in a wide range of skincare products.