Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ Review

Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++
5.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.
  • Soothing: Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ 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 Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈11.0%), Soluble Collagen (est. ≈4.0%) and Sodium Hyaluronate (est. ≈2.5%).

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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈11.0%) and Sodium Hyaluronate (est. ≈2.5%).

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, Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈11.0%).

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, Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ 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 Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were accessible to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, this ingredient does not generate 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.

Pros & Cons of Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Shiseido Elixir Daily UV Protector SPF 50+ PA++++ 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
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
  • Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
  • 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: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
40
22
11
6
4
2.5
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
0.3
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. %
Tranexamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Glycyrrhizinate
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Potentilla Erecta Extract
Function:
Origin:
Soluble Collagen
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Polyethylene
Function:
Origin:
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Function:
Origin:
Methyl/Phenyl Polysilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Phthalic Anhydride
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrobromic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
2,4,6-Trimethyl-4-Phenyl-1,3-Dioxane
Function:
Origin:
Methacrylic Acid/Sodium Acrylamidomethyl Propane Sulfonate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Dextrin Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Polydiethylsiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Dimethylhydrogensiloxy Phenyl Polysilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Succinoglycan
Function:
Origin:
Cellulose Gum
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metaphosphate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Trisodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
PPG-15 Stearyl Ether
Function:
Origin:
Talc
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Bisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Methacryloyloxyethyl Phosphorylcholine
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Red 28 Lake (CI 45410)
Function:
Origin:
Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
20.4
11
4
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 20.4 10
10.0
11
4
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
11
4
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 20.4 10
10
All humectants
20.4
11
4
2.5
2
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
n/a
- 11 -
Total
0
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
11
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
11
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 14.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
14.4
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
11
Sodium Hyaluronate
2.5
Tocopherol
0.3
BHT
0.3
Sodium Bisulfite
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
11
All soothing 11 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
11
11
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Tranexamic Acid
Est. %40
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.
Potassium Glycyrrhizinate
Est. %22
Function
Origin
Potassium Glycyrrhizinate
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %11
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

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.

Potentilla Erecta Extract
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Potentilla Erecta Extract
Soluble Collagen
Est. %4
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.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Glycerin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Water
Est. %1.5
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.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %1
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.
Octinoxate
Est. %0.3
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.
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Polyethylene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyethyleneCommonly used in dense plastic packaging, its primary function in skincare is as a film-forming agent, which protects the product from being easily rinsed away by water or sweat. It also controls viscosity by increasing the thickness of oily products.
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Methyl/Phenyl Polysilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyl/Phenyl Polysilsesquioxane
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid
Phthalic Anhydride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phthalic Anhydride
Propylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Hydrobromic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrobromic Acid
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.
2,4,6-Trimethyl-4-Phenyl-1,3-Dioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
2,4,6-Trimethyl-4-Phenyl-1,3-Dioxane
Methacrylic Acid/Sodium Acrylamidomethyl Propane Sulfonate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methacrylic Acid/Sodium Acrylamidomethyl Propane Sulfonate Copolymer
Aluminum Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum HydroxideA white mineral powder, also known as alumina, that is derived from aluminum metal. It is frequently used as an abrasive in exfoliating products and as a thickener. Aluminum oxide is also a great opacifier.
Dextrin Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dextrin Palmitate
Polydiethylsiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polydiethylsiloxane
Dimethylhydrogensiloxy Phenyl Polysilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethylhydrogensiloxy Phenyl Polysilsesquioxane
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Succinoglycan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Succinoglycan
Cellulose Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cellulose GumA polymer that is derived from its namesake, cellulose, which is plant-based. It has many formula-helper benefits, including thickening and product stabilization.
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.
Sodium Metaphosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetaphosphateA sodium salt that captures heavy metal ions and raises the pH.
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.

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.
Trisodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trisodium EDTAA chelating agent designed to encapsulate potentially harmful heavy metal ions that enter the formula through the water source. Once encapsulated, these heavy metal ions become inert.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyl MethylcelluloseA natural viscosity controlling agent that is commonly used in skin cleansing products to thicken the consistency. It also functions as an emulsion stabilizing agent and binding agent.
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
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.

PPG-15 Stearyl Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-15 Stearyl EtherA synthetic ingredient that has a slippery feel and can be combined with many other ingredients acting as a solvent.
Talc
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TalcA mineral powder used as a base material for powders, make-up, and pastes that absorbs sweat and oils very well. It is also often used in baby powders. Talc should never be applied to skin with a damaged lipid barrier (e.g. wounds and burns).
Sodium Bisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BisulfiteAn inorganic salt that kills bacteria and protects against oxidation.
Methacryloyloxyethyl Phosphorylcholine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methacryloyloxyethyl Phosphorylcholine
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.
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.
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.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
Red 28 Lake (CI 45410)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Red 28 Lake (CI 45410)
Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)