Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30

Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30
10.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.7Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
30
SPF icon
SPF
$$$$

Review

Results you may expect from using Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30:

  • Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 10.0 out of 10.
  • Some anti-wrinkle efficacy: Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30 has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.7 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure.

How moisturizing is it?

Maximum hydration: Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30 has 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 Glycerin (est. ≈11.0%), and a maximum occlusivity of 10 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes (est. ≈22.0%).

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

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30 has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 2.7 out of 10.

It contains 3 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
     the most effective non-prescription ingredient with well-proven efficacy to reduce wrinkles.
  • Glycolic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
     highly effective in peelings, yet with below-average anti-wrinkle efficacy when used in leave-on skincare products.
  • Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
     or Vitamin C, a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, yet with average efficacy confirmed by only one study.
 
Among others, Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30 also contains some ingredients marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Gluconolactone, Adenosine, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Beta-Glucan, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, and Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract. 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, could deliver additional anti-wrinkle efficacy through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Antioxidant benefits

We estimate that Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes (est. ≈22.0%).

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.

Sun protection

Philosophy Ultimate Miracle Worker SPF 30 has an SPF of 30 and provides high sun protection. This level of protection is ideal for activities such as spending time at the beach, outdoor sports, or other activities involving prolonged sun exposure. It's important to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating to maintain effectiveness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
30
22
11
7
4
2.7
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
0.1
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
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Ratings

All humectants
16.2
11
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
22.6
22.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
10.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 16.2 10
10.0
11
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 22.6 20
10.0
22.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
10.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
11
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 16.2 10
10
All humectants
16.2
11
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
22
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 22.6 20
10.0
All occlusives
22.6
22.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
1.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2.7
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Glycolic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
1.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Gluconolactone
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Beta-Glucan
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
22
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 24.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
24.4
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes
22
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
BHT
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
0.3
Beta-Glucan
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.2 5 No
All soothing
1.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %30
Function
Origin
A 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.
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes
Est. %22
Function
Origin
Microscopic droplets of safflower oil surrounded by a membrane. Oleosomes are able to create a very stable emulsion and are better absorbed by the skin. Safflower oil offers occlusive, emollient, and antioxidant properties.
Glycerin
Est. %11
Function
Origin

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

Octinoxate
Est. %7
Function
Origin
A 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.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %4
Function
Origin
A 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.
Avobenzone
Est. %2.7
Function
Origin
A 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
A synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
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.
Methyl Gluceth-20
Est. %1
Function
Origin
A humectant synthetically derived from glucose. It takes on the form of a clear, syrupy liquid.
Gluconolactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A PHA derived from glucose. It has exfoliating and humectant properties and acts as a penetration enhancer for other ingredients. It has also been shown to assist in the treatment of acne and the prevention of photoaging.
Polyacrylamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic ingredient that can thicken products instantly while still keeping them light and often gel-like.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Cyclohexasiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A clear silicone fluid with very low viscosity that is commonly used as a solvent and emollient. It has excellent spreadability, rubs in quickly, and leaves a silky smooth after-feel on the skin.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
Bifida Ferment Lysate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A mixture of probiotic bacteria. According to the patent holder, it contains enzymes that are able to repair damaged DNA in skin cells. A single study confirms that it is able to reduce skin sensitivity.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A lightweight petroleum derivative. It is a very thin liquid that functions as an emollient and a solvent for other liquids (such as thicker oils or silicones).
Polysorbate 80
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A non-ionic surfactant, which means that it contains no chemical charges. It can be used as a mild cleansing agent in skin cleansing products but is more commonly used for its emulsifying abilities.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.
Laureth-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A mild but effective functional ingredient. It can emulsify (efficiently mix water and oil) without needing too much in a formula.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An occlusive moisturizing oil expressed from soybeans. It does not leave an oily feeling on the skin due to its low content of saturated fatty acids. Glycine soja oil contains emollient fatty acids and a significant amount of antioxidants.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Under 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.
Iris Pallida Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Ruby Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Gluconic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An effective antimicrobial ingredient that kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. It is also an excellent solvent and astringent. Alcohol helps to create lighter and less viscous products. It can, however, be dehydrating and skin-sensitizing.
Mica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

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.

Cellulose Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A polymer that is derived from its namesake, cellulose, which is plant-based. It has many formula-helper benefits, including thickening and product stabilization.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

PEG-8
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic liquid that serves as a humectant. It also works as a solvent because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of ingredients.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Chitosan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A film-forming polysaccharide derived from the shells of shrimp, crabs, and other crustaceans. It is a very special ingredient that is used to form protective films on wounds in order to promote wound healing.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Glycolic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

The second most used AHA (after lactic acid) known for its potent exfoliating and smoothing effects. It increases skin cell turnover, which is beneficial for treating acne. When used in peels, glycolic acid has confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy, though it is less effective in leave-on products like creams and serums.

Sorbitan Oleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A vegetable-based ingredient that stabilizes mixtures of oil and water. Sorbitan oleate serves primarily as an emulsifier that produces water-in-oil emulsions.
Calcium Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A white crystalline powder that can act as a humectant when dissolved into water. It is also a chelating agent.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Behentrimonium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Sodium Bicarbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A sodium salt that increases pH and removes dead skin cells.
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A form of vitamin C derived from ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. Unfortunately, Ascorbyl Palmitate lacks the studies to prove its anti-wrinkle efficacy.
Beta-Glucan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A special polysaccharide obtained from cereals, mushrooms, yeast, bacteria, and some species of seaweed. It is a promising anti-wrinkle, wound healing, antioxidant, and moisturizing ingredient.
Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Pongamia Pinnata Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Isopropyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic solvent that thins out products and negates unwanted foaming behavior.
Acetic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Angelica Archangelica Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative effective against fungi, yeast, and some bacteria. It is commonly paired with phenoxyethanol to create a broad spectrum preservation system. Benzoic acid can also serve as a pH adjuster, fragrance, and bulking agent.
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Peel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Maltodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A formula helper manufactured from starch. It has a sweet flavor and is often used in rinse-off products to support their foaming structure. Maltodextrin is also used to stabilize emulsions and to absorb and bind other ingredients in the formula.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A naturally occurring clay that is hygroscopic, which means that it easily absorbs water. This ingredient is thus commonly used as an absorbent and emulsion stabilizer. It also modifies slip by improving the spreadability of the products it is used in.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

Also known as vitamin C, this multi-benefit ingredient has proven anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and anti-pigmentation efficacy. It degrades easily when exposed to air and light, so it requires proper packaging to maintain its stability.

Sclerotium Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A thickener with a silky, velvety feel that many manufacturers use as an alternative to silicones.
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
This effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.
Sorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An organic acid that can be naturally found in the berries of the Mountain ash, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It is used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent, protecting a skincare product from spoiling.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.