Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 Review

Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42
3.5
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.6 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.4Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
42
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 has to offer:
 
  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.5 out of 10.
  • Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.4 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.
  • High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure.

Key Benefits of Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42:
 

Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Normal Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.5 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather occlusive. It has a low humectancy of 2.4 out of 10 and a moderate occlusivity of 4.6 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈9.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, may provide some occlusive moisturizing that is adequate for normal skin.

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

Slight Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 0.4 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Ectoin (est. ≈0.3%), 
 an amino acid-derived ingredient with moderate but proven anti-wrinkle efficacy.  A single clinical study involving 104 participants (Heinrich et al.) confirmed that a cream containing 2% ectoin reduced the average wrinkle width by 7% after 4 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without ectoin (vehicle).
 
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.

High Sun Protection for Extended Outdoor Activities and Exposure

With an SPF of 42, Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 provides high sun protection, making it ideal for prolonged outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, sports, or spending time at the beach.

This level of SPF blocks up to 98% of UVB rays, significantly reducing the risk of sunburn. When formulated as broad-spectrum, it also protects against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term damage.

This level of SPF is recommended for most skin types, including those with moderate sun sensitivity. For individuals with fair or very sensitive skin, or under intense sun exposure, a higher SPF of 50+ is advised.

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.

It's important to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating 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 Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 to your skincare routine:
 

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 Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 contains a relatively low level of humectants.

People with normal 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 Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 42 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides the right level of occlusivity to moisturize normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
  • Provides slight anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Provides high sun protection, ideal for prolonged outdoor activities such as hiking or beach outings, and suitable for most skin types

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
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
SD Alcohol 40-B
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Polybutylene Glycol/PPG-9/1 Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Xylitol
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Thiotaurine
Function:
Origin:
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ononis Spinosa Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ectoin
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogen Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Alumina
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Syzygium Jambos Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
9.3
9.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.4 10
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 9.3 20
4.6
9.0
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.4 10
2.4
All humectants
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
0.3
All occlusives 9.3 20
4.6
All occlusives
9.3
9.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
2.5 /10 2 0.3 0.4
Total
0.4
Ectoin
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
2
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.2 3 No
All antioxidants
1.2
Thiotaurine
0.3
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
0.3
Syzygium Jambos Leaf Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.5 5 No
All soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %9
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.
Isododecane
Est. %6
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.
SD Alcohol 40-B
Est. %4
Function
Origin
SD Alcohol 40-BA natural ingredient containing a denaturant to discourage drinking.
Dipropylene Glycol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Dipropylene GlycolA clear, colorless liquid that has several uses. One of its main functions is as a solvent. Dipropylene glycol is also used to reduce the thickness of skincare products.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl PalmitateA rich emollient without the oily after-feel, making it a popular replacement for mineral oil. It is derived from natural sources such as palm oil and palm kernel oil. Ethylhexyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
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.
Glycerin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %1.3
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.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Polybutylene Glycol/PPG-9/1 Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polybutylene Glycol/PPG-9/1 Copolymer
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.
Xylitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
XylitolAn organic compound that is most well-known for its use as a sweetener that also protects your teeth from cavities. Xylitol is used in skincare as a moisturizing humectant and has been shown to improve the protective barrier function of the skin.
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyl Methacrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used for bulking, film-forming, and controlling viscosity. It can absorb large amounts of water and oil and creates a network for other ingredients to live in.
Thiotaurine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Thiotaurine
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.
Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Paeonia Albiflora Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of the garden peony. It mainly contains humectant moisturizing oligosaccharides and polysaccharides, and has been claimed to improve skin tone.
Ononis Spinosa Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ononis Spinosa Root Extract
Ectoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ectoin

An amino acid-derived ingredient with average, yet proven by one study, anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl DimethiconeA powerful emulsifier with the unique trait of being able to work in both oil- and silicone-based formulas. It can also function as a thickener in low concentrations.
Hydrogen Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogen Dimethicone
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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Syzygium Jambos Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Syzygium Jambos Leaf ExtractAn antimicrobial extract obtained from Rose apple leaves that is currently being researched and is claimed to be a promising anti-acne ingredient.
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.
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.
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.