Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer Review

Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer
5.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
4.6 Humectancy icon Humectancy
6.5 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.1Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Review

Does Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.
  • Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.1 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.

Key Benefits of Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer:
 

Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Normal to Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather occlusive. It has a moderate humectancy of 4.6 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%), and a high occlusivity of 6.5 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈9.0%) and Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter (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 Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer 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, Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 0.1 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%), 
 or Vitamin C, a popular ingredient, yet with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 20 participants (Humbert et al.). This study showed that a cream with a relatively high concentration of 5% ascorbic acid reduced the average wrinkle depth by 7% after 6 months of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ascorbic acid).
 
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.

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: Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer to your skincare routine:
 

If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

This product contains lactic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage.

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

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 Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer contains a moderate 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 Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Shea Moisture Papaya & Vitamin C Brighter Days Ahead Moisturizer 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

Cons: 

  • Ideally needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing 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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Junos Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Eel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate
Function:
Origin:
Eclipta Prostrata Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Leaf
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Function:
Origin:
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Triethyl Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
4.6
4
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
12.9
9.0
2.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 4.6 10
4.6
4
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 12.9 20
6.5
9.0
2.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
0.3
0.3
All humectants 4.6 10
4.6
All humectants
4.6
4
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
2
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 12.9 20
6.5
All occlusives
12.9
9.0
2.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
Total
0.1
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.4 3 No
All antioxidants
2.4
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
0.3
Citrus Junos Fruit Extract
0.3
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
0.3
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
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. %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.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %9
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.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %6
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.
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Cetearyl Olivate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl Olivate

A multifunctional ingredient derived from plants that primarily serves as an emulsifier. Supplied as a waxy ivory-colored flake, it can also be used as an emollient and slip modifier that gives a product an overall light, silky finish.

Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA 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.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %2
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.
Sorbitan Olivate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Sorbitan OlivateAn ester of sorbitol (a type of sugar alcohol) and olive oil fatty acids. It is used as an emulsifying agent to stabilize oil droplets in water (or vice versa).
Stearyl Alcohol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Stearyl AlcoholA natural fatty alcohol that thickens, stabilizes, and keeps emulsions a bright white color. It has many uses, the main one being as an emulsifier. It also acts as an opacifying agent and emollient.
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Vegetable OilA solid, butter-like substance that is a highly occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It is a mixture of various plant oils (such as soy, olive, corn, canola, peanut, and many others) which has been refined.
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.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
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.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil

An essential oil derived from the peels of the sweet orange. It is commonly used as a fragrance because of its pleasant, citrusy scent. The main constituent of the essential oil is limonene (up to 96%).

Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid

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.

Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit ExtractA soothing extract obtained derived from the papaya fruit. It contains a skin softening and mildly exfoliating enzyme called papain, as well as various anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that can assist in the wound healing process.
Citrus Junos Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Junos Fruit Extract

An extract from Yuzu (a citrus hybrid) which contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoids.

Eel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eel Extract
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Moringa Oleifera Seed OilAn oil obtained from the seeds of Moringa oleifera, a fast-growing bush native to Northern India and the sub-Himalayan regions. It contains mainly oleic acid, as well as many additional anti-inflammatory compounds and high levels of vitamin E.
Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate
Eclipta Prostrata Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eclipta Prostrata ExtractA soothing extract of false daisy that contains a variety of active anti-inflammatory phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenes, phytosterols, and special compounds called thiopenes.
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe 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.
Melia Azadirachta Leaf
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melia Azadirachta Leaf
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilAn 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.
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)An orange-red plant pigment with powerful antioxidant activity.
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root ExtractAn antioxidant extract derived from carrots. It is a rich source of the orange-colored beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A). Carrot root extract is often added to skincare products that are aimed at providing a better suntan.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
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.

Mica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MicaA 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.
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.
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.
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.
Glyceryl Caprylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl CaprylateA waxy solid derived from vegetable oils that has emollient and emulsifying properties. It is also known to boost the efficacy of organic acid preservatives by destabilizing the microbe's cell membrane.
Triethyl Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Triethyl Citrate
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzoic AcidA 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.