Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 Review

Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30
10.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 has to offer:
 
✅ Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 10.0 out of 10.
✅ Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities.

  

Key Benefits of Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Exceptionally Rich Moisturizer Perfect for Dry to Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 is exceptionally moisturizing, with the highest possible moisturizing rating of 10.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This is one of the most moisturizing products on the market, with a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈11.0%), and a maximum occlusivity of 10 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈40.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with dry to very dry skin who want intense hydration. It combines a high concentration of humectants with an exceptional level of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing specifically for very dry skin.

The occlusive profile of Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for very dry skin.

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

☀️☀️ Moderate to High Sun Protection for Daily Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 30, Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 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: Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

Pros & Cons of Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ Very rich moisturizer perfect for dry and very dry skin: exceptionally occlusive and humectant-rich
Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
   

Summary: Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30
 is an ideal moisturizer for dry to very dry skin, combining a very high concentration of humectants and occlusive ingredients in a rich, thick texture.
 
With an SPF of 30, Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 offers moderate to high sun protection, appropriate for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates.
 
That said, there are some things about Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation SPF 30 is ideal for dry skin but may feel too thick on other skin types. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin, it’s a good idea to try a sample before purchasing.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
40
22
11
5.8
4.9
3
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
Est. %
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Trifluoropropyldimethyl/trimethylsiloxysilicate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Phenyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Nacre Powder
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Aluminometasilicate
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-51
Function:
Origin:
Thymus Serpyllum Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-2
Function:
Origin:
Trimethylsiloxysilylcarbamoyl Pullulan
Function:
Origin:
Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
13.4
11
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
41.6
40.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
10.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 13.4 10
10.0
11
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 41.6 20
10.0
40.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
10.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
11
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 13.4 10
10
All humectants
13.4
11
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
40
1
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 41.6 20
10.0
All occlusives
41.6
40.0
1.0
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
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
BHT
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
None
All soothing 0 5 No
All soothing
0
None
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Dimethicone
Est. %40
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.
Water
Est. %22
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.
Glycerin
Est. %11
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %5.8
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.
Octinoxate
Est. %4.9
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.
Trifluoropropyldimethyl/trimethylsiloxysilicate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Trifluoropropyldimethyl/trimethylsiloxysilicate
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
PEG-10 DimethiconeA polyethylene-based emulsifying ingredient. It has a water-loving portion and an oil-loving portion that help to keep the water and oil phases connected to form an emulsion.
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.

Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %1
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.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone CrosspolymerA group of ingredients that are typically added to skincare products to adjust the formula. Dimethicone Crosspolymers stabilize a formula, regulate its thickness and consistency and give the product a velvety feel.
Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-Butyldimethicone Polyglyceryl-3
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Isopropyl Myristate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl MyristateA fast-spreading, cost-effective, non-greasy emollient that is typically used for lubrication, spreadability, or to remove “tackiness” from a product. Isopropyl Myristate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone CrosspolymerThis ingredient can refer to several kinds of dimethicone crosspolymers. Like other silicones, it makes products feel slippery and non-greasy but can also increase the thickness or improve the water-resistance of a formula.
Nacre Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nacre Powder
Magnesium Aluminometasilicate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium Aluminometasilicate
Polyquaternium-51
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-51A biocompatible phospholipid copolymer that is designed to mimic the lipid-based cell membrane found in human skin. Its main function is as a humectant moisturizer.
Thymus Serpyllum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Thymus Serpyllum Extract
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.
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.
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.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
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.
Polysilicone-2
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-2
Trimethylsiloxysilylcarbamoyl Pullulan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trimethylsiloxysilylcarbamoyl Pullulan
Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate
PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone
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 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.
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.
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.
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.

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
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron OxidesMineral pigments used to provide color in skincare products. These naturally occurring pigments are available in yellow, red, brown, and black powders.
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.