Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
2.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.8 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
30
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30:

  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 2.3 out of 10.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 2.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of Humectancy and Occlusivity: a low Humectancy of 2.8 out of 10 and a low Occlusivity of 1.8 out of 10.

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

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

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ubiquinone, and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12. 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 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 to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

With an SPF of 30, Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 provides moderate to high sun protection, making it suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure, such as commuting or light outdoor activities.

This level of SPF offers excellent defense against UVB rays, blocking up to 97% of harmful radiation. When labeled as broad-spectrum, these products also protect against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and hyperpigmentation.

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 works well for skin types mildly prone to sunburn. It is particularly suitable for low-to-moderate UV index environments and non-tropical climates. However, it is not recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure or intense UV conditions. Reapplication every two hours is essential to maintain effectiveness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
3.85
3.12
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Isononyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
Function:
Origin:
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Superoxide Dismutase
Function:
Origin:
Ubiquinone
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NG
Function:
Origin:
Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Tribehenin
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Phytosterol
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Alumina
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.8
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.7
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
2.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.8 10
2.8
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.7 20
1.8
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
2.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.8 10
2.8
All humectants
2.8
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.7 20
1.8
All occlusives
3.7
2.5
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 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Ubiquinone
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
-
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
All antioxidants 2.1 3 No
All antioxidants
2.1
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
0.3
Superoxide Dismutase
0.3
Ubiquinone
0.3
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.9 5 No
All soothing
0.9
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.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %9
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.
Isononyl Isononanoate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Isononyl IsononanoateAn ester of a branched fatty acid with a branched fatty alcohol. It is an easily spreadable emollient that has a silky, dry, non-greasy feel on the skin.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %3.85
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. %3.12
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.
Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel OilA fatty oil expressed from the seed kernels of apricot fruits. This oil is an emollient and occlusive moisturizer comprised of around 60% oleic acid, followed by linoleic and palmitic acid, carotenoids, vitamin E, and other antioxidant compounds.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %2
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.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %1.5
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. %1.3
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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1
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. %0.3
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.

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.
Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) SterolsA mixture of phytosterols isolated from soybean oil. Phytosterols, when used in skincare products, have emollient properties and can make the skin feel softer and smoother.
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Est. %0.3
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.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

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.

Allantoin
Est. %0.3
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.
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.

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.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. According to a recent clinical study, THDA has all the capabilities of regular vitamin C, including anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment activity.
Superoxide Dismutase
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Superoxide Dismutase
Ubiquinone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
UbiquinoneAlso known as Coenzyme Q10, this bright orange antioxidant supports the skin's energy metabolism. It also offers some anti-pigment action. Dietary supplementation of Ubiquinone improves the appearance of wrinkles.
Ceramide NG
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NGA lipid that is mainly found on scalp skin and that helps with the barrier repair. It is one of the less popular ceramides and is usually used in combination with other ceramides for better barrier repair properties.
Methicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethiconeA silicone oil that can function as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. Occasionally, methicone is used as a surface modifier for various pigments to improve the longevity and vibrancy of colorants.
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12

A short, synthetically made peptide similar to elastin fragments. It works as a signal peptide, stimulating the growth of skin cells and facilitating skin repair. It has been tested mostly in test-tube experiments so far.

PEG-10 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-10 DimethiconeA polyethylene-based emulsifying ingredient. It has a water-loving portion and an oil-loving portion that help to keep the water and oil phases connected to form an emulsion.
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.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Tribehenin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TribeheninA soft, pliable wax that serves as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It improves the spreadability of skincare products, including the increased payoff of stick products, and imparts a pleasant, smooth feel upon application.
PEG-10 Phytosterol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-10 Phytosterol
Sorbitan Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan StearateA vegetable-derived ingredient most commonly used as an emulsifier to stabilize water and oil mixtures.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Alumina
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AluminaA mineral derived from the metal ore known as aluminum. It is commonly used as an abrasive and also acts as a thickening viscosity controlling agent (and thus as a bulking agent). Alumina is also a great opacifier.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
Aluminum Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum StearateA water-resistant thickener and common ingredient in makeup to help coat the colors used.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.