Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen

Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen
3.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
4.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
2.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
50
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen:

  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.1 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Lightweight moisturizer suitable for oily skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.1 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 2.2 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 4.0 out of 10, primarily due to Butylene Glycol (est. ≈1.5%), Glycerin (est. ≈1.3%) and Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract (est. ≈0.3%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with oily skin who want essential hydration in a relatively lightweight, non-greasy formula. It combines a substantial amount of humectants with a limited amount of occlusive ingredients to enhance moisturizing efficacy without feeling too heavy.

Due to its moderate humectant content and some occlusivity, it can also positively contribute the moisturizing efficacy of a skincare routine for normal skin when used alongside another moisturizer.

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

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains 2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do 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.

Rich in skin-protecting antioxidants

We estimate that Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Tocopheryl Acetate (est. ≈0.3%), 2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%), Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract (est. ≈0.3%), and others.

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.

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

With an SPF of 50, Shiseido Universal Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Sunscreen 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.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
45
15.4
7
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
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:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Methicone
Function:
Origin:
SD Alcohol 40-B
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Isodonis Japonicus Leaf/Stalk Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-51
Function:
Origin:
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Function:
Origin:
PPG-17
Function:
Origin:
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Function:
Origin:
C30-45 Alkyl Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
C30-45 Olefin
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogen Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Cellulose Gum
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metaphosphate
Function:
Origin:
Succinoglycan
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy Ether
Function:
Origin:
Alumina
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metabisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Talc
Function:
Origin:
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Disodium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Barium Sulfate
Function:
Origin:
Ergothioneine
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
4.0
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
4.4
2.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 4.0 10
4.0
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 4.4 20
2.2
2.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 4.0 10
4
All humectants
4.0
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 4.4 20
2.2
All occlusives
4.4
2.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract
0.3
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
0.3
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract
0.3
BHT
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Sodium Metabisulfite
0.3
Ergothioneine
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. %45
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.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %15.4
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.
Octocrylene
Est. %7
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Octisalate
Est. %5
Function
Origin
OctisalateA UVB sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl salicylate. It is normally paired with UVA sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octisalate also protects other ingredients, like colorants and antioxidants, from deterioration due to exposure to UV light.
Isododecane
Est. %3
Function
Origin
IsododecaneAn emollient derived from petroleum with high spreadability. It is often used as a replacement for oils and silicones because it leaves no residue behind on the skin. When a product is labeled as “oil-free” it may contain isododecane instead of heavier oils.
Caprylyl Methicone
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Caprylyl MethiconeA liquid silicone with occlusive moisturizing properties. Being compatible with natural oils is a challenge for most silicones, but caprylyl methicone plays well with all types of oils.
SD Alcohol 40-B
Est. %2
Function
Origin
SD Alcohol 40-BA natural ingredient containing a denaturant to discourage drinking.
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.

Glycerin
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Dimethicone
Est. %1
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.
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.
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.

2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic AcidA derivative of vitamin C. There are no clinical studies on this ingredient as of yet, and so we don't know if it is as effective as the other ascorbic acid derivatives.
Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Prunus Speciosa Leaf Extract
Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Angelica Acutiloba Root ExtractAngelica acutiloba root extract is a pungent, aromatic extract derived from the roots of the Japanese angelica tree. It has soothing effects and can be beneficial for itchy or allergy-prone skin [1]. It also contains antioxidants and protects the skin against UV-induced damage.
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root ExtractA powerful antioxidant, soothing, and astringent extract derived from the roots of Baikal/Chinese skullcap. It contains various unique flavonoids that are believed to soothe irritated and inflamed skin and protect from UV-induced oxidative damage.
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit ExtractAn antioxidant and astringent extract derived from raspberries - which are a rich source of flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and tannins.
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.
Isodonis Japonicus Leaf/Stalk Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isodonis Japonicus Leaf/Stalk Extract
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
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.

Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Roxburghii Fruit ExtractAn extract from the fruits of the Sweet chestnut rose that contains antioxidant vitamin C, flavonoids, and astringent tannins.
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.
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polymethyl MethacrylateA powdered ingredient with an impressive sensory profile that gives off a creamy, sometimes velvety feeling on the skin. It is made up of tiny microspheres that roll smoothly across the skin and create slip and high spreadability.
PPG-17
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-17
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.
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.
PEG-100 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
C30-45 Alkyl Methicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C30-45 Alkyl Methicone
Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer
C30-45 Olefin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C30-45 Olefin
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Hydrogen Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogen Dimethicone
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
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.
Sodium Metaphosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetaphosphateA sodium salt that captures heavy metal ions and raises the pH.
Succinoglycan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Succinoglycan
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.
Alcohol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
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.
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.

Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy Ether
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.
Sodium Metabisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetabisulfiteA preservative that is especially effective at preventing fungus and mold growth. It is normally combined with a strong bactericidal preservative in order to achieve broad-spectrum protection. Sodium metabisulfite is also used as an antioxidant.
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.
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).
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-12 DimethiconeA synthetic silicone that improves lubricity and absorption.
Disodium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium PhosphateAn inorganic ingredient primarily used in skincare products as a pH adjuster.
Barium Sulfate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Barium Sulfate
Ergothioneine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ErgothioneineA naturally-occurring amino acid that functions as a powerful and versatile antioxidant.
Sodium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PhosphateA sodium salt of phosphoric acid that increases pH.
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.
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.
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.