Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ Review

Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++
1.7
/ 10
Moisturizing
3.2 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ has to offer:
 
  • A bit of moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 1.7 out of 10.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Key Benefits of Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++:
 

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ is slightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 1.7 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 3.2 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈2.0%).

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

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

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

With an SPF of 50, Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ 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: Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ to your skincare routine:
 

As a Standalone Moisturizer, It Has Relatively Low Moisturizing Potential

If you use Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ for moisturizing purposes, please keep in mind that it provides relatively light moisturizing on its own, and, more importantly, it’s not optimal for any skin type.

On one hand, it has low occlusivity, which suits oily and combination skin. On the other hand, it has a low estimated concentration of humectants, which are essential for effective moisturizing of all skin types, including oily skin.

Therefore, if used as a standalone moisturizer, this product should be paired with a humectant-rich moisturizer for optimal skin hydration.

Pros & Cons of Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Shiseido Anessa Whitening UV Sunscreen Gel SPF50+ PA++++ to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine
  • 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: 

  • Minimal moisturizing efficacy, even for oily skin - something to keep in mind if this is your only moisturizer in your routine

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
7.5
5
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:
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Tranexamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Hydrated Silica
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Function:
Origin:
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Dimethylacrylamide
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Succinoglycan
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy Ether
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Leontopodium Alpinum Extract
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Potentilla Erecta Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Soluble Collagen
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
3.2
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
1.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 3.2 10
3.2
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
1.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 3.2 10
3.2
All humectants
3.2
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.2 3 No
All antioxidants
1.2
Camellia Sinensis Extract
0.3
Leontopodium Alpinum Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf 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

Water
Est. %70
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.
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Est. %7.5
Function
Origin
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Zinc Oxide
Est. %5
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.
Alcohol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
AlcoholAn 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.
Octinoxate
Est. %2.5
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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %2
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.

Tranexamic Acid
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Tranexamic AcidA synthetic amino acid that is used as an astringent to stop the bleeding from small cuts. It also has proven anti-pigment and redness-reducing effects.
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Est. %1.3
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.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Hydrated Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrated SilicaA form of silicone dioxide, the major component of sand, that contains varying amounts of water. It has several purposes but is most commonly used as an abrasive (as an eco-conscious alternative to polyethylene microbeads).
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Ethylhexyl Triazone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Triazone
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor OilA white paste-like substance derived from castor oil that belongs to a group of ingredients called PEGs (polyethylene glycols). It acts as a perfume solubilizer that helps fragrance agents dissolve in water and as a cleansing agent.
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.
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-12 DimethiconeA synthetic silicone that improves lubricity and absorption.
Dimethylacrylamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethylacrylamide
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.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder 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.
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salicylic AcidThis 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.
Succinoglycan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Succinoglycan
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy Ether
Camellia Sinensis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Extract

An antioxidant, astringent, and soothing extract derived from green tea. It performs as an anti-aging ingredient in the deeper layers of the skin.

Leontopodium Alpinum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Leontopodium Alpinum ExtractAn extract from a beautiful alpine plant called Edelweiss. It contains a rare compound called leontopodic acid with antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acetylated HyaluronateA chemically modified version of hyaluronic acid. It is more stable and less sticky than regular HA, while still providing the same humectant moisturizing properties (according to the manufacturer). There have been no clinical studies to confirm this.
Potentilla Erecta Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potentilla Erecta Root Extract
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf ExtractDerived from Aloe vera leaves, this moisturizing humectant, soothing, and antioxidant extract is commonly used in products targeting eczema, sunburn, or dermatitis. It soothes the skin and reduces the signs of inflammation and sensitivity.
Soluble Collagen
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Soluble CollagenA protein obtained from farm or marine animals. Collagen molecules are too big to penetrate the skin so when they are applied via a skincare product they sit on top of the skin and act as humectant moisturizers.