SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 Review

SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
0.3 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
50
SPF icon
SPF
Ingredients

SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Zinc Oxide, Dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Triethylhexanoin, Isohexadecane, Talc, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, C30-45 Alkyldimethylsilyl Polypropylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Aluminum Stearate, Alumina, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Iron Oxides, Phenoxyethanol, Silica Silylate, PEG-8 Laurate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Paraffin, Aluminum Hydroxide
Review

Does SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 has to offer:
 
✅ Strong occlusive moisturizing. This exceptionally occlusive moisturizer, ideal for dry and very dry skin, has a moderate moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10, impaired by the lack of humectants.
✅ Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

  

Key Benefits of SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Exceptionally Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 0.3 out of 10 and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈24.9%), Triethylhexanoin (est. ≈4.0%) and Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil (est. ≈3.9%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

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

☀️☀️☀️ Very High Sun Protection for Prolonged Sun Exposure, All Skin Types, and High-risk Conditions

With an SPF of 50, SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 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.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 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.

⚠️ 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 SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 contains a low level of humectants.

People with dry 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 SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Exceptionally rich moisturizer with the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry to very dry skin
✅ Provides very high sun protection, ideal for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude environments, and beach vacations, suitable for all skin types
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
   

Summary: SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50
, as a moisturizer, provides an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin, delivered in a rich, thick texture.
 
With an SPF of 50, SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 delivers very high sun protection, perfect for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude settings, and beach vacations, and suitable for all skin types.
 
That said, there are some things about SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 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.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains only a small amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense SPF 50 with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
📌 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.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
25
24.9
9
8.9
4
4
4
3.9
3.8
3.6
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
Est. %
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Triethylhexanoin
Function:
Origin:
Isohexadecane
Function:
Origin:
Talc
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
C30-45 Alkyldimethylsilyl Polypropylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Alumina
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Silica Silylate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-8 Laurate
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Function:
Origin:
Paraffin
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
33.1
24.9
4.0
3.9
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 0.3 10
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 33.1 20
10.0
24.9
4.0
3.9
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
All humectants 0.3 10
0.3
All humectants
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
24.9
4
3.9
0.3
All occlusives 33.1 20
10.0
All occlusives
33.1
24.9
4.0
3.9
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
None
All antioxidants 0 3 No
All antioxidants
0
None
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
None
All soothing 0 5 No
All soothing
0
None
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Zinc Oxide
Est. %25
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %24.9
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.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %9
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.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %8.9
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Triethylhexanoin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
TriethylhexanoinAn occlusive and emollient ester of glycerin and a fatty acid. It is easily spreadable and does not leave a sticky after-feel.
Isohexadecane
Est. %4
Function
Origin
IsohexadecaneA clear, colorless liquid that is commonly used as an emollient. It is made up of pure hydrocarbons and leaves a dry feeling on the skin upon application. It also increases the spreadability of a product.
Talc
Est. %4
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).
Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil
Est. %3.9
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Jojoba OilA potent occlusive moisturizing jojoba oil derivative.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %3.8
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.
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %3.6
Function
Origin
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
C30-45 Alkyldimethylsilyl Polypropylsilsesquioxane
Est. %1
Function
Origin
C30-45 Alkyldimethylsilyl Polypropylsilsesquioxane
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.
Aluminum Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum StearateA water-resistant thickener and common ingredient in makeup to help coat the colors used.
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.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
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.
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.
Silica Silylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silica SilylateA synthetic powder that thickens oils and features a velvety texture.
PEG-8 Laurate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-8 Laurate
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.
2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol
Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium Stearoyl GlutamateAn emulsifier that can provide a light feel, especially when used in color cosmetics to coat pigments. It is not expected to be irritating when used at recommended levels.
Paraffin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ParaffinParaffin is a petroleum-based, very oily, emollient and extremely occlusive mixture of purified hydrocarbons, also known as mineral oil. Depending on the molecule's size, it can either be a liquid, a solid, or anything in between. To learn more about liquid paraffin and its effects on our skin, read here.
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.