Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell Review

Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell
4.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.7 Humectancy icon Humectancy
6.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.4Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.
  • Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.4 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Key Benefits of Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell:
 

Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Normal to Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 2.7 out of 10 and a high Occlusivity of 6.0 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈9.0%) and Phenyl Trimethicone (est. ≈2.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, may provide a significant level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for normal to dry skin.

The occlusive profile of Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell suggests a texture that is rich and creamy but not overly thick, offering the potential to absorb into the skin without leaving a greasy afterfeel in most cases.

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

Slight Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 0.4 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Ectoin (est. ≈0.3%), 
 an amino acid-derived ingredient with moderate but proven anti-wrinkle efficacy.  A single clinical study involving 104 participants (Heinrich et al.) confirmed that a cream containing 2% ectoin reduced the average wrinkle width by 7% after 4 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without ectoin (vehicle).
 
Among others, Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell also contains Biosaccharide Gum-4, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Biosaccharide Gum-4 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.

Moderate to High Sun Protection for Daily Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 30, Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell 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.

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: Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell to your skincare routine:
 

Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell contains a relatively low level of humectants.

People with normal to dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid SPF 30 - Shell to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides the right level of occlusivity to moisturize normal to dry skin
  • Rich and creamy texture without being overly thick
  • Provides slight anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates

Cons: 

  • Ideally needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
9
6
3.7
3.5
3.2
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Phenyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Honey Extract
Function:
Origin:
Oligopeptide-10
Function:
Origin:
Tetrapeptide-16
Function:
Origin:
Boswellia Serrata Water
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ectoin
Function:
Origin:
Carnosine
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyacetophenone
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Biosaccharide Gum-4
Function:
Origin:
Alumina
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
Function:
Origin:
Cyclohexasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Methyldihydrojasmonate
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.7
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
11.9
9.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.7 10
2.7
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 11.9 20
6.0
9.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.7 10
2.7
All humectants
2.7
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 11.9 20
6.0
All occlusives
11.9
9.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
2.5 /10 2 0.3 0.4
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0.4
Ectoin
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
2
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Biosaccharide Gum-4
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.5 3 No
All antioxidants
1.5
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract
0.3
Carnosine
0.3
Hydroxyacetophenone
0.3
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
0.3
BHT
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. %55
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %9
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.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %6
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.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %3.7
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.
Octinoxate
Est. %3.5
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.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %3.2
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.
Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Phenyl TrimethiconeA silicone fluid that is used as an occlusive moisturizer. It applies smoothly to the skin and reduces the tack associated with organic oils.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1.5
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.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA naturally-derived emollient ester. It is a blend of caprylates and caprates and, relative to other emollients, is lightweight and dry on the skin. As a result, coco-caprylate/caprate serves as a natural alternative to volatile silicones.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %1
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.
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.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeA silicone-based powerful emulsifier that helps to create lightweight and pleasant feeling lotions and creams.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone CrosspolymerAn anticaking agent that prevents a product from forming lumps. It also increases slip and produces an elegant finish in skincare formulations.
Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-18/18 DimethiconeA silicone-based emulsifier that has the ability to create non-sticky and non-greasy formulas.
Honey Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Honey ExtractAn extract obtained from honey that is comprised of proteins, minerals, and various bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, emollient, moisturizing humectant, and soothing properties.
Oligopeptide-10
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oligopeptide-10

Description is coming soon

Tetrapeptide-16
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrapeptide-16
Boswellia Serrata Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Boswellia Serrata Water
Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran ExtractAn extract from rice bran, the brown outer part of the rice kernel. It contains emollient fatty acids and antioxidants such as tocopherols (vitamin E) and γ-oryzanol.
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit ExtractObtained from the fruits of the lowbush blueberry, this purple-blue extract is rich in antioxidant vitamin C and anthocyanins.
Ectoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ectoin

An amino acid-derived ingredient with average, yet proven by one study, anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Carnosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarnosineA skin-identical dipeptide that acts as a powerful antioxidant. It protects our skin from harmful glycation and can enhance the activity of other active ingredients in the skincare product.
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.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
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.
Biosaccharide Gum-4
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Biosaccharide Gum-4A sugar-derived gel which forms a water-binding film on the skin’s surface. This film allegedly protects the skin from environmental stressors.
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.
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
Cyclohexasiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyclohexasiloxaneA 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.
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disteardimonium HectoriteA clay ingredient that functions primarily as a viscosity controlling agent that thickens all types of formulas. Disteardimonium hectorite imparts a smooth, velvety feel, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate
Isostearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isostearic AcidA saturated fatty acid used to mix oil and water and to remove dirt from the skin's surface. Isostearic acid is listed among common comedogenic ingredients by acne.org.
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.
Methyldihydrojasmonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyldihydrojasmonate
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
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.
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.
Propanediol
Est. %0.3
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.
Silica
Est. %0.3
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.
Sodium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Chloride

You’re definitely familiar with sodium chloride, even if you don’t think you are. It’s table salt! Salt works well with some cleansing ingredients (surfactants) to thicken them into gels. It also acts as a stabilizer for water-in-oil emulsions.

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.
BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BHTAn 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.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
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.
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.
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.
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)A red colorant also known as red iron oxide. This is an EU-approved colorant used in a wide variety of products.
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)A black colorant also known as black iron oxide used in a wide range of skincare products.