Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 Review

Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50
7.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
3Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.0 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 has an anti-wrinkle rating of 3.0 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • 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 Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50:
 

Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin with a balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 7.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈3.0%) and Butylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 4.0 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈3.0%) and Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want maximum hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

This product may also be a good choice for people with normal to dry skin for daily hydration, as it balances significant moisturizing potential with a balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy.

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

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With 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, Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 also contains Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does 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 Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract (est. ≈3.0%), Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%), Tocopherol (est. ≈2.0%), and others.

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.

Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Allantoin (est. ≈2.0%), Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract (est. ≈2.0%), and others.

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

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

With an SPF of 50, Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With 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 Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Paula's Choice Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Perfect for moisturizing normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
  • Can enhance the moisturizing efficacy of a skincare routine for dry skin
  • 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
  • Contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help reduce irritation and soothe the skin
  • 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
7.5
6
5.1
5
5
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
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
Est. %
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Oxybenzone
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Atractylodes Macrocephala Root Powder
Function:
Origin:
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Portulaca Oleracea Extract
Function:
Origin:
Mahonia Aquifolium Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Function:
Origin:
Sarcosine
Function:
Origin:
Capryloyl Glycine
Function:
Origin:
Maltooligosyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Dimethiconol
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
4-t-Butylcyclohexanol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
26.9
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
8.0
3.0
3.0
2.0
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 26.9 10
10.0
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 8.0 20
4.0
3.0
3.0
2.0
Moisturizing rating
7.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 26.9 10
10
All humectants
26.9
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
3
2
All occlusives 8.0 20
4.0
All occlusives
8.0
3.0
3.0
2.0
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 2 3
n/a
- 2 -
Total
3
Niacinamide
3
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
2
Anti-wrinkle rating
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
All antioxidants 19 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
19
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
3
Niacinamide
2
Tocopherol
2
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
2
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
2
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
2
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
2
Portulaca Oleracea Extract
2
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
2
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2
2
2
2
2
2
0.3
All soothing 12.3 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
12.3
2
2
2
2
2
2
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Octinoxate
Est. %7.5
Function
Origin
OctinoxateA chemical sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate. It protects against UVB, which causes the skin to burn and tan and can lead to certain types of skin cancers. For broad-spectrum protection claims, octinoxate should be paired with a UVA sunscreen.
Oxybenzone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
OxybenzoneA chemical sunscreen that protects against burning caused by UVB radiation.
Water
Est. %5.1
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.
Homosalate
Est. %5
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
Octisalate
Est. %5
Function
Origin
OctisalateA UVB sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl salicylate. It is normally paired with UVA sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octisalate also protects other ingredients, like colorants and antioxidants, from deterioration due to exposure to UV light.
Avobenzone
Est. %3
Function
Origin
AvobenzoneA popular sunscreen that protects against UVA rays, which cause premature aging and skin cancer. Avobenzone degrades after about 30 minutes of sun exposure and becomes ineffective. It is therefore often paired with UV-filter stabilizers such as octocrylene.
Silica
Est. %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.
Glycerin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %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.
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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %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.

Pentylene Glycol
Est. %3
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.

Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Est. %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.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %3
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.
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from apple fruit that has humectant moisturizing and antioxidant properties, as well as gentle anti-pigment effects. It contains humectant sugars, anti-pigment organic acids, and flavonoids.
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Est. %3
Function
Origin
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Allantoin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
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.

Tocopherol
Est. %2
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.

Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root ExtractAn extract from the licorice root. It contains a well-researched anti-inflammatory compound called glycyrrhizin that can reduce inflammation. Licorice root extract is also used for its powerful antioxidant effects and ability to treat pigmentation.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceA gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Atractylodes Macrocephala Root Powder
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Atractylodes Macrocephala Root Powder
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel ExtractA beneficial extract obtained from Oat groats popular in products aimed at eczema-prone skin. It contains skin healing beta-glucan, anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds, antioxidant flavonoids, various lipids, proteins, and moisturizing amino acids.
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed ExtractAn antioxidant and emollient extract derived from coffee beans. It has been proven to improve collagen and elastin production in the skin. A small clinical study tested the anti-aging effects of coffee berry extract, and the results were very promising.
Portulaca Oleracea Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Portulaca Oleracea ExtractDerived from green or common purslane, this moisturizing extract is particularly rich in alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, and contains antioxidant glutathione and vitamin E. As a herbal medicine, it is believed to treat headaches and inflammation.
Mahonia Aquifolium Root Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Mahonia Aquifolium Root Extract
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Sarcosine
Est. %2
Function
Origin
SarcosineA sweet-tasting amino acid that moisturizes the skin by attracting water to its surface. It also offers protection to the skin by stabilizing proteins against UV damage and denaturation.
Capryloyl Glycine
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Capryloyl GlycineA naturally-derived or synthetically produced multi-functional ingredient. As an anti-microbial it can act as part of a product's preservative system or reduce microbes on the skin that cause certain kinds of acne or dandruff.
Maltooligosyl Glucoside
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Maltooligosyl Glucoside
Cetearyl Glucoside
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Cetearyl GlucosideAn emulsifier that creates stable mixtures of oil in water that feel soft and spread easily. Cetearyl glucoside is sold with cetearyl alcohol as an emulsifier blend and also provides some body to the formula.
Dimethiconol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DimethiconolA synthetic dimethicone with rich, non-tacky emolliency. It features the typical sensorial profile of silicones, with high spreadability and a luxurious, oil-free after-feel. Dimethiconol can also serve as an antifoaming agent.
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.
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Starch HydrolysateA starch-based syrup that binds to water and helps to form a film on the skin’s surface.
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.
4-t-Butylcyclohexanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
4-t-ButylcyclohexanolA powerful bioactive compound designed to soothe irritated, burning, and itchy skin. The effectiveness of its soothing properties has been proven by clinical trials and it is often combined with other soothing ingredients.
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.
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 StearateThis surfactant is more specifically classified as an emulsifier that produces oil-in-water emulsions. PEG-100 stearate can also be used as a cleansing agent.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

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.
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.
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.
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.