SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 Review

SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30
8.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
6.7 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
30
SPF icon
SPF
Ingredients

SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Dimethicone, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Zinc Oxide, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Phenethyl Benzoate, Triethylhexanoin, Isohexadecane, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Stearyl Dimethicone, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Isododecane, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Talc, Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer, Nylon-12, Pentylene Glycol, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Aluminum Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Alumina, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Magnesium Sulfate, Caprylyl Glycol, PEG-8 Laurate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Tocopherol, Propylene Carbonate, Artemia Extract, Benzoic Acid, Dipropylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate
Review

Does SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 has to offer:
 
✅ Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 8.4 out of 10.
✅ Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities.

  

Key Benefits of SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30:
 

🔵🔵 Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 is intensely moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 8.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈45.0%), and a high occlusivity of 6.7 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈11.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want intense hydration in a rich yet not overly thick formula. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing.

The product’s occlusive profile suggests a texture that is rich and creamy but not overly thick, offering the potential to absorb into the skin without leaving a greasy afterfeel in most cases.

This product may also be a good choice for people with dry (but not very dry) skin for daily hydration, as it strikes a balance between significant moisturizing potential and a texture that is not too thick.

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

☀️☀️ Moderate to High Sun Protection for Daily Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 30, SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 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 model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Artemia Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Artemia Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Artemia Extract 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 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.

Pros & Cons of SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ Perfect for moisturizing normal to dry skin
Rich and creamy texture without being overly thick
Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30
, as a moisturizer, is ideal for normal to dry skin, combining a very high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients in a rich yet not overly thick formula.
 
With an SPF of 30, SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 offers moderate to high sun protection, appropriate for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates.
 
That said, there are some things about SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering SkinCeuticals Physical UV Defense SPF 30 is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 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
45
22
11
5
4
3
2
1.5
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
Est. %
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Phenethyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Triethylhexanoin
Function:
Origin:
Isohexadecane
Function:
Origin:
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Talc
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Nylon-12
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Alumina
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Sulfate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-8 Laurate
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Artemia Extract
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
45.9
45
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
13.4
11.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
8.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 45.9 10
10.0
45
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 13.4 20
6.7
11.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
8.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
45
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 45.9 10
10
All humectants
45.9
45
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
11
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 13.4 20
6.7
All occlusives
13.4
11.0
1.5
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 -
Total
0
Artemia 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
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
Tocopherol
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
None
All soothing 0 5 No
All soothing
0
None
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Glycerin
Est. %45
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %22
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %11
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. %5
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.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %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.
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Butyloctyl SalicylateA synthetic emollient and solvent. It is primarily used as a carrier oil to disperse minerals in, including pigments and sunscreen minerals. It can also absorb UV light, thus boosting the SPF of sunscreen products.
Phenethyl Benzoate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Phenethyl Benzoate
Triethylhexanoin
Est. %1.5
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. %1
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.
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Stearyl Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearyl Dimethicone
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Isododecane
Est. %0.3
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.
Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-4 IsostearateA synthetic emollient emulsifier that helps oil and water phases to mix.
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).
Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone/Polyglycerin-3 Crosspolymer
Nylon-12
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nylon-12A synthetic powdered ingredient that imparts unique sensorial characteristics due to its microsphere structure. It can also control viscosity by bulking up the oil phase of a skincare product.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
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.

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.
Aluminum Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum StearateA water-resistant thickener and common ingredient in makeup to help coat the colors used.
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.
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.
Magnesium Sulfate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium SulfateA naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used in skincare products as a bulking agent. It helps to control the viscosity of products by making them thicker.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
PEG-8 Laurate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-8 Laurate
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.
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.
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.

Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Artemia Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Artemia ExtractAn extract from brine shrimp that has claimed protective effects. More studies are required to explore its functions and effects on the skin.
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.
Dipropylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.