Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 Review

Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
4.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.6 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.4 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.0 out of 10.
  • 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 Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50:
 

Lightweight Moisturizer Well-Suited for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.4 out of 10 and a high humectancy of 6.6 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycerin (est. ≈6.0%).

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

It can also be a good option for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

A Humectant Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant enhancement 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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Tocopherol (est. ≈1.3%), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (est. ≈1.0%), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (est. ≈0.3%), 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.

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

With an SPF of 50, Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid 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.

Things to Be Aware Of: Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 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 exclude 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 accessible 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 Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Humectant moisturizing well-suited for oily skin
  • Lightweight texture
  • A humectant moisturizing enhancement for any skincare routine
  • 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: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Punica Granatum Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.6
6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
2.8
1.5
1.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.6 10
6.6
6
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 2.8 20
1.4
1.5
1.3
Moisturizing rating
4.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
0.3
0.3
All humectants 6.6 10
6.6
All humectants
6.6
6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
1.5
1.3
All occlusives 2.8 20
1.4
All occlusives
2.8
1.5
1.3
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
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 5 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5
Tocopherol
1.3
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
1
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract
0.3
Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract
0.3
Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract
0.3
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
0.3
Punica Granatum Fruit Extract
0.3
Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract
0.3
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.9 5 No
All soothing
1.9
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
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.
Octinoxate
Est. %9
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.
Glycerin
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Octisalate
Est. %4
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.
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.
Avobenzone
Est. %2.5
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.
Octocrylene
Est. %2
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Dimethicone
Est. %1.5
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.
Tocopherol
Est. %1.3
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.

Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower ExtractDerived from German chamomile flowers, this extract is especially known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits. It contains two soothing compounds called chamazulene and bisabolol, as well as antioxidant flavonoids.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed ExtractA potent antioxidant and emollient extract derived from grape seeds. It contains antioxidant flavonoids, tannins, proanthocyanidins, phytosterols, carotenoids, and vitamin E. It is often used in skincare products aimed at soothing and healing irritated skin.
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.

Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Oleifera Leaf ExtractAn emollient extract derived from the leaves of the Tea-oil Camellia, which is native to Southeast Asia. It contains astringent and wound-healing tannins that create a tightening feeling on the skin and can speed up the healing process of small cuts.
Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) ExtractA fragrant extract obtained the dill plant with a good amount of essential oil and a fresh, spicy scent.
Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sambucus Nigra Fruit ExtractA soothing extract of elderberries that is packed with astringent tannins and antioxidant anthocyanins.
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.
Punica Granatum Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Punica Granatum Fruit ExtractA pomegranate fruit extract that contains antioxidant polyphenols and a rare emollient punicic acid. It is aimed at dry, irritated skin.
Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lycium Barbarum Fruit ExtractAn extract obtained from Goji berries with moisturizing and antioxidant polysaccharides and glycoproteins. It is also rich in other antioxidants such as vitamins B and C, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phytosterols.
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.
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.
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone CrosspolymerThis ingredient can refer to several kinds of dimethicone crosspolymers. Like other silicones, it makes products feel slippery and non-greasy but can also increase the thickness or improve the water-resistance of a formula.
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerAn emulsion stabilizer and thickener that helps to create a pleasant, satiny, and light formula texture. It works by forming a gel-like network within water or oil, which both stabilizes other ingredients and produces a thickening effect.
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.
Sodium Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CarbomerLike Carbomer, only pre-reacted so that no neutralization is required. Carbomer based gels are clear and have a non-sticky smooth feel. Many high end cosmetics will use carbomers as part of their formula to build body without making a product feel heavy.
Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Alcohol

A multifunctional ingredient that is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid. Its main function is as a flavoring agent and fragrance. It also acts as a broad-spectrum preservative, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent that thins the product.

Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
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.