Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen Review

Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen
5.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.
  • Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10, Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen 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 Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.3 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈9.0%), Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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.

Significant Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%), 
 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).
 

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

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈9.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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.

Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈9.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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, Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen 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 Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Q + A Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Delivers signficant anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Niacinamide
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution
  • Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Niacinamide
  • 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: 

  • We couldn't find any

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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Diethylaminoethyl Cocoate
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Arginine
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Betaine
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Jojoba Esters
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyacetophenone
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
21.5
9
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
2.6
2.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 21.5 10
10.0
9
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 2.6 20
1.3
2.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
9
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 21.5 10
10
All humectants
21.5
9
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 2.6 20
1.3
All occlusives
2.6
2.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 4 6
Total
6
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
4
Anti-wrinkle rating
6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
9
4
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 13.6 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
13.6
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
9
Niacinamide
4
Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract
0.3
Hydroxyacetophenone
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
9
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 13.9 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
13.9
9
4
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.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %9
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.
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.
Niacinamide
Est. %4
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.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %3
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.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %2.5
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.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %2
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.
Diethylaminoethyl Cocoate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Diethylaminoethyl Cocoate
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Arginine
Est. %1
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.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Betaine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BetaineAn ingredient derived from the sucrose in sugar beets. It has a negative chemical charge and a positive chemical charge on the same molecule. This allows betaine to be hygroscopic or humectant and thus provide moisturization by drawing water to the skin.
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.
Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower ExtractA fragrant extract derived from the flowers of the Italian honeysuckle. It has a pleasant, sweet, floral scent. Not much is known about its compounds and their functions.
Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower ExtractAn extract from the white flowers of the Japanese honeysuckle. Apart from an essential oil responsible for its jasmine-like scent, the extract also contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory iridoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids.
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Triazone
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.
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.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA 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.
Jojoba Esters
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Jojoba EstersA mixture of various wax esters from jojoba oil. It is used in skincare products as a fantastic emollient, soothing, and occlusive moisturizing agent that won't leave a sticky, oily feeling on the skin.
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.
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.
Hydroxyacetophenone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HydroxyacetophenoneAn antioxidant compound that can be found in many plants, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It can boost the preservative action of other conservants.
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.
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA 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.