SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ Review

SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ has to offer:
 
✅ Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.
✅ Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
✅ Soothing: SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection
✅ Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities.

  

Key Benefits of SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++:
 

🔵 Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.3 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%), Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (est. ≈4.0%) and Pentylene Glycol (est. ≈2.0%).

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.

🟣🟣 Significant Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%),
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Among others, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ also contains Ascorbyl Glucoside, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Ascorbyl Glucoside provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Ascorbyl Glucoside may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
 
Therefore, this ingredient does not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%).

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, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%).

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.

☀️☀️ Moderate to High Sun Protection for Daily Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 30, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ 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.

Pros & Cons of SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 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
Delivers signficant anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Niacinamide
✅ 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 ingredients, specifically Niacinamide
Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates
 

⭕ Cons: 

✅ We couldn't find any
   

Summary: SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++
 is specifically effective in treating wrinkles, containing ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy.
 

When used alone, it delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, making it ideal for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.

Rich in antioxidants, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation. This product is also formulated with a high concentration of soothing ingredients, offering the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
With an SPF of 30, SK-II Atmosphere Airy Light UV Emulsion SPF 30 PA+++ offers moderate to high sun protection, appropriate for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates.
 
❗️ 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.

 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
5
4.9
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Opuntia Vulgaris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Ensulizole
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Aminomethyl Propanol
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Methylparaben
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-20/20 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Laureth-7
Function:
Origin:
Undecylenoyl Phenylalanine
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylamide
Function:
Origin:
Ethylparaben
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Propylparaben
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
12.9
5
4
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 12.9 10
10.0
5
4
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
5
4
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 12.9 10
10
All humectants
12.9
5
4
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 5 6
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
6
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
5
Ascorbyl Glucoside
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 5.9 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5.9
Niacinamide
5
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Ascorbyl Glucoside
0.3
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
5
0.3
All soothing 5.3 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.3
5
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Opuntia Vulgaris Extract
Est. %65
Function
Origin
Opuntia Vulgaris Extract
Niacinamide
Est. %5
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Water
Est. %4.9
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.
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Homosalate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %2.5
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.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Glycerin
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Avobenzone
Est. %1
Function
Origin
AvobenzoneA popular sunscreen that protects against UVA rays, which cause premature aging and skin cancer. Avobenzone degrades after about 30 minutes of sun exposure and becomes ineffective. It is therefore often paired with UV-filter stabilizers such as octocrylene.
Octocrylene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Ensulizole
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ensulizole
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.
Isopropyl Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl IsostearateA synthetic ester that offers superior spreadability.
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.

Aminomethyl Propanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aminomethyl PropanolA synthetic ingredient that helps to adjust the pH of a product to make it less acidic.
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.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Alcohol

A multifunctional ingredient that is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid. Its main function is as a flavoring agent and fragrance. It also acts as a broad-spectrum preservative, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent that thins the product.

Stearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearyl AlcoholA natural fatty alcohol that thickens, stabilizes, and keeps emulsions a bright white color. It has many uses, the main one being as an emulsifier. It also acts as an opacifying agent and emollient.
Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol with emollient properties. It is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener and tends to result in a product with a smooth and creamy application texture.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
Methylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethylparabenA preservative that keeps a product unspoiled. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, although the concentrations found in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe.
PEG/PPG-20/20 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-20/20 Dimethicone
Laureth-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laureth-7A mild but effective functional ingredient. It can emulsify (efficiently mix water and oil) without needing too much in a formula.
Undecylenoyl Phenylalanine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Undecylenoyl Phenylalanine
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.

Polyacrylamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyacrylamideA synthetic ingredient that can thicken products instantly while still keeping them light and often gel-like.
Ethylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylparabenA cost-effective preservative that belongs to the group of parabens. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, although the concentrations found in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Propylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PropylparabenA preservative that keeps a product unspoiled. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, although the concentrations found in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe.
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 StearateThis surfactant is more specifically classified as an emulsifier that produces oil-in-water emulsions. PEG-100 stearate can also be used as a cleansing agent.
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C13-14 IsoparaffinA lightweight petroleum derivative. It is a very thin liquid that functions as an emollient and a solvent for other liquids (such as thicker oils or silicones).
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.
Cetearyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl GlucosideAn emulsifier that creates stable mixtures of oil in water that feel soft and spread easily. Cetearyl glucoside is sold with cetearyl alcohol as an emulsifier blend and also provides some body to the formula.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
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.
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.
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl GlucosideA derivative of vitamin C. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. There are unfortunately no clinical studies on ascorbyl glucoside’s anti-pigment or anti-acne efficacy alone.
Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zea Mays (Corn) OilAn occlusive moisturizing fatty oil extracted from the germ of corn grains. It is made up of linoleic, oleic, and palmitic acids, and is suitable for all skin types.
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)An orange-red plant pigment with powerful antioxidant activity.
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.