Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ Review

Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.4 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
3Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ has an anti-wrinkle rating of 3.0 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Key Benefits of Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.4 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%), Arginine (est. ≈2.5%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

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

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 3.0 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%), 
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Among others, Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ also contains contains Adenosine and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to 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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, all skin types, and high-risk conditions

With an SPF of 50, Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ provides very high sun protection, suitable for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, beach vacations, or high-altitude environments.

This level of SPF blocks 98% or more of UVB rays, offering the highest level of defense against sunburn. Broad-spectrum formulations also provide strong protection against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, pigmentation, and DNA 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.

This level of SPF is ideal for all skin types, particularly fair, sensitive, or post-treatment skin (e.g., after laser or chemical procedures). It is also highly recommended for individuals at greater risk of skin cancer.

For extended outdoor activities or water exposure, choose a water-resistant formula and reapply every two hours for maximum effectiveness.

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

Pros & Cons of Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Hera UV Protector Multi-Defense Fresh SPF 50+ to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • Lightweight texture
  • A humectant moisturizing boost for any skincare routine
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution
  • Provides very high sun protection, ideal for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude environments, and beach vacations, suitable for all skin types

Cons: 

Ingredients

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
0.3
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. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dibutyl Adipate
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Function:
Origin:
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Arginine
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-15
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Methylpropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2
Function:
Origin:
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Sphingomonas Ferment Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Polyether-1
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Suffruticosa Extract
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Function:
Origin:
DNA
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pelargonium Graveolens Extract
Function:
Origin:
Gardenia Florida Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Water
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
13.6
6
2.5
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 13.6 10
10.0
6
2.5
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.9 20
0.4
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
2.5
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 13.6 10
10
All humectants
13.6
6
2.5
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 0.9 20
0.4
All occlusives
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 2 3
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
3
Niacinamide
3
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.5 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.5
Niacinamide
2
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
0.3
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract
0.3
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.2 5 No
All soothing
3.2
2
0.3
0.3
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.
Dibutyl Adipate
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Dibutyl Adipate
Propanediol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Arginine
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
ArginineA humectant amino acid used to attract water to the skin’s surface. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Arginine can also be used as a pH adjuster.
Niacinamide
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Polysilicone-15
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-15
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

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.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl StearateAn emollient and emulsifier typically derived from vegetable sources through a chemical reaction with glycerin. It provides stability, texture, and consistency to formulations. Its main function is to allow oil and water to mix.
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl TriazineA synthetic "chemical" sunscreen ingredient that protects against UV damage and offers better stability and safety compared to some other traditional organic suncreen ingredients.
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Cetyl PhosphateA powerful emulsifier that can even mix particularly problematic water and oil blends. It is also a surfactant perfect for cleansing products that effectively rinse off oil and dirt particles from the surface of the skin.
Methylpropanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethylpropanediolMethylpropanediol is a unique glycol that contains two primary hydroxyl groups. That makes methylpropanediol a powerful humectant and an excellent solvent.
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
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.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Stearate CitrateAn ingredient composed of citric acid, stearic acid, and glycerin. Glyceryl stearate citrate acts as an emollient in skincare products, making the skin appear smooth and pleasant to the touch.
Sphingomonas Ferment Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sphingomonas Ferment Extract
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.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Polyether-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyether-1
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
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.

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.

Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl PalmitateA rich emollient without the oily after-feel, making it a popular replacement for mineral oil. It is derived from natural sources such as palm oil and palm kernel oil. Ethylhexyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Paeonia Suffruticosa Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Paeonia Suffruticosa Extract
Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Paeonia Lactiflora Root ExtractAn extract derived from the roots of the garden peony. It has been suggested that this ingredient has anti-pigment activity.
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Biosaccharide Gum-1A polysaccharide with humectant moisturizing and soothing properties.
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.
Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharomyces Ferment FiltrateA yeast mixture that contains humectant moisturizing amino acids, nucleic acids (building blocks of DNA), peptides, various minerals, and vitamins.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)An orange-red plant pigment with powerful antioxidant activity.
DNA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DNA
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig ExtractHamamelis virginiana bark/leaf/twig extract is an extract obtained from the leaves, twigs, and bark of Witch Hazel branches. The extract has antioxidant, astringent and soothing effects on your skin. Read about a very similar extract here: Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract.
Pelargonium Graveolens Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pelargonium Graveolens Extract
Gardenia Florida Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gardenia Florida Flower Extract
Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Water
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic AcidA derivative of vitamin C. Its stability in skincare formulations is better than ascorbic acid’s, although clinical studies are yet to indicate whether it has the same collagen-boosting benefits.