Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42

Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42
2.7
/ 10
Moisturizing
3.6 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
42
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42 work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42:

  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 2.7 out of 10.
  • Little anti-wrinkle effect: Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42 has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.6 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure.

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42 is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 2.7 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.8 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 3.6 out of 10, primarily due to Glycerin (est. ≈1.5%), Trehalose (est. ≈0.3%) and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (est. ≈0.3%).

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.

Little anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42 has a minimal anti-wrinkle rating of 0.6 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (est. ≈0.3%), 
 the only derivative of ascorbic acid with solid evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy. A single clinical study involving 23 participants (Mariko et al.) demonstrated that a cream with 1% ATIP reduced the average depth of periorbital wrinkles by 6% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ATIP).
 
Among others, Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42 also 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. Therefore, this ingredient does not contribute to 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 Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 42 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (est. ≈0.3%), Thiotaurine (est. ≈0.3%), Scutellaria Baicalensis 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.

High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure

With an SPF of 42, Shiseido Urban Environment Sun Dual Care Oil-Free 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.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
40
15.5
15
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Trisiloxane
Function:
Origin:
SD Alcohol 40-B
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Ensulizole
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Trehalose
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Dextrin Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Isodecyl Neopentanoate
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Function:
Origin:
Thiotaurine
Function:
Origin:
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Function:
Origin:
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Sanguisorba Officinalis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Garcinia Mangostana Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Perilla Ocymoides Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Spirulina Platensis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Triethanolamine
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Menthoxypropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metabisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-2
Function:
Origin:
Barium Sulfate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
3.6
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.6
3.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
2.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 3.6 10
3.6
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.6 20
1.8
3.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
2.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 3.6 10
3.6
All humectants
3.6
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.6 20
1.8
All occlusives
3.6
3.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
2 /10 1 0.3 0.6
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0.6
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
0.6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2 /10
when present at, %
1
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
0.6
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
All antioxidants 3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
0.3
Thiotaurine
0.3
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Perilla Ocymoides Leaf Extract
0.3
Spirulina Platensis Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
BHT
0.3
Sodium Metabisulfite
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.9 5 No
All soothing
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %40
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. %15.5
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.
Homosalate
Est. %15
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %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.
Trisiloxane
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Trisiloxane
SD Alcohol 40-B
Est. %2
Function
Origin
SD Alcohol 40-BA natural ingredient containing a denaturant to discourage drinking.
Glycerin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Silica
Est. %1.3
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.
Ensulizole
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Ensulizole
PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether
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.
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrehaloseA sweet-tasting saccharide that can be found in various yeasts and fungi and that is manufactured from starch for cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most popular sugars in skincare and is mainly used for its humectant properties.
Myristyl Myristate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristyl MyristateAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient ester that is derived from vegetables. This soft, wax-like ester produces a soft and creamy sensorial profile. Myristyl myristate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
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.
Dextrin Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dextrin Palmitate
Isodecyl Neopentanoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isodecyl NeopentanoateA super lightweight ester that softens the appearance of skin.
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (ATIP) is an oil-soluble derivative of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C. It is more stable than ascorbic acid, with studies supporting its collagen-boosting and anti-pigment effects.

Thiotaurine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Thiotaurine
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateA licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
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.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
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.

Sanguisorba Officinalis Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sanguisorba Officinalis Root ExtractAn extract from the root of the great burnet plant that is rich in astringent tannins and cleansing saponins. Its anti-wrinkle activity has yet to be confirmed.
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.

Garcinia Mangostana Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Garcinia Mangostana Bark Extract
Perilla Ocymoides Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Perilla Ocymoides Leaf ExtractA leaf extract from the mint family that contains antioxidant flavonoids and terpenes.
Spirulina Platensis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Spirulina Platensis ExtractA dark green emollient and antioxidant extract derived from spirulina - a dried mass of tiny blue-green algae. It is rich in proteins, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins (namely B1 and B2).
Triethanolamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethanolamineA clear, colorless, and highly viscous liquid, this ingredient is an excellent pH adjuster. When it is necessary to neutralize an acidic solution or to generally increase the pH of a product, triethanolamine is a common choice.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Menthoxypropanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Menthoxypropanediol
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.
Polysilicone-2
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-2
Barium Sulfate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Barium Sulfate
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.
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.
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.