SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50 Review

SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50
5.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
9.2 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.7 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50 has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.4 out of 10.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Key Benefits of SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50 is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.7 out of 10 and a very high humectancy of 9.2 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%) and Propylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%).

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.

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

With an SPF of 50, SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50 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 AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Pros & Cons of SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50 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
  • 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: 

  • We couldn't find any

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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
Drometrizole Trisiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sulfuric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Triethanolamine
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Palmitic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Seedcake Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
9.2
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 9.2 10
9.2
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.4 20
1.7
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 9.2 10
9.2
All humectants
9.2
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.4 20
1.7
All occlusives
3.4
2.5
0.3
0.3
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
0.3
All antioxidants 0.3 3 No
All antioxidants
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
None
All soothing 0 5 No
All soothing
0
None
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.
Octinoxate
Est. %9
Function
Origin
OctinoxateA chemical sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate. It protects against UVB, which causes the skin to burn and tan and can lead to certain types of skin cancers. For broad-spectrum protection claims, octinoxate should be paired with a UVA sunscreen.
Drometrizole Trisiloxane
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Drometrizole Trisiloxane
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Propylene Glycol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Dimethicone
Est. %2.5
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. %2
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.
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Pentylene Glycol
Est. %1.3
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.

Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Sulfuric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sulfuric Acid
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
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.
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl TriazineA synthetic "chemical" sunscreen ingredient that protects against UV damage and offers better stability and safety compared to some other traditional organic suncreen ingredients.
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.
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Cetyl PhosphateA powerful emulsifier that can even mix particularly problematic water and oil blends. It is also a surfactant perfect for cleansing products that effectively rinse off oil and dirt particles from the surface of the skin.
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.

Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
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.
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.
Palmitic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitic AcidA saturated fatty acid used in skincare as a strongly occlusive moisturizer and barrier repairing, emollient ingredient. It is a waxy-looking, white solid. Palmitic acid can be commonly found in animal and vegetable fats, notably palm oil.
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.
Tromethamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TromethamineAn ingredient based on amino acids that is commonly used as a pH adjuster. It has a high pH, which means that it is basic (alkaline), so adding tromethamine to a skincare product will increase its overall pH level.
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.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
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.
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.
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.

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Seedcake Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Seedcake Extract
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.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl StearateAn emollient and emulsifier typically derived from vegetable sources through a chemical reaction with glycerin. It provides stability, texture, and consistency to formulations. Its main function is to allow oil and water to mix.