StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer Review

StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer
2.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
4.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer has to offer:
 
  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 2.6 out of 10.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Key Benefits of StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer:
 

Lightweight Moisturizer Suitable for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 2.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.2 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 4.0 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propanediol (est. ≈2.5%).

This product, when used alone as a moisturizer, can provide light humectant hydration in a fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients. This could work for people with oily skin who need a basic level of hydration.

A Humectant Add-on for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - since it contains a moderate amount of humectants, such a humectant add-on will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer.

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, StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer 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.

Things to Be Aware Of: StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate and Ubiquinone, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were accessible to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, these ingredients do 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 StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of StriVectin Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Face Moisturizer to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides moderate humectant moisturizing suitable for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates

Cons: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
10
7
4.5
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
0.15
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Ergothioneine
Function:
Origin:
Mannitol
Function:
Origin:
Bacillus/Sea Salt Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Nicotinate
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Japonica Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Extract
Function:
Origin:
Morinda Citrifolia Extract
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Ubiquinone
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Decyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Aminomethyl Propanol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Function:
Origin:
Red 40 (CI 16035)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
4.0
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
2.3
2.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
2.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 4.0 10
4.0
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 2.3 20
1.2
2.0
0.3
Moisturizing rating
2.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 4.0 10
4
All humectants
4.0
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2
0.3
All occlusives 2.3 20
1.2
All occlusives
2.3
2.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 1 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
1
Ubiquinone
-
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
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.5 3 No
All antioxidants
2.5
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
1
Ergothioneine
0.3
Mannitol
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Ubiquinone
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %55
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.
Octocrylene
Est. %10
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Homosalate
Est. %7
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
Octisalate
Est. %4.5
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.
Avobenzone
Est. %3
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.
Propanediol
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Dimethicone
Est. %2
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.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %1.5
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.
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Est. %1.3
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.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. According to a recent clinical study, THDA has all the capabilities of regular vitamin C, including anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment activity.
Ergothioneine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ErgothioneineA naturally-occurring amino acid that functions as a powerful and versatile antioxidant.
Mannitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MannitolA sweet-tasting, sugar-derived, humectant alcohol that can stabilize a skincare formula and offer some antioxidant and soothing properties.
Bacillus/Sea Salt Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bacillus/Sea Salt Ferment Filtrate
Myristyl Nicotinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristyl Nicotinate
Citrus Japonica Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Japonica Fruit Extract
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Germ Extract
Morinda Citrifolia Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Morinda Citrifolia Extract
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) ExtractAn abrasive rice extract rich in various emollient fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamin E.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilAn occlusive moisturizing oil expressed from soybeans. It does not leave an oily feeling on the skin due to its low content of saturated fatty acids. Glycine soja oil contains emollient fatty acids and a significant amount of antioxidants.
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.

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.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Ubiquinone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
UbiquinoneAlso known as Coenzyme Q10, this bright orange antioxidant supports the skin's energy metabolism. It also offers some anti-pigment action. Dietary supplementation of Ubiquinone improves the appearance of wrinkles.
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.

1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Decyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Decyl GlucosideA surfactant that can function as both a cleansing agent and emulsifier. As a cleansing agent, it is very mild on the skin. As an emulsifier, decyl glucoside will produce oil-in-water emulsions. It is naturally derived from vegetable oils and starch.
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
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.
Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 DiisostearateA vegetable-based ingredient that stabilizes mixtures of oil and water.
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.
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acrylates CopolymerA synthetic polymer that can come in various forms and is often used to create light gel-like textures. Some versions can also create a light film on the skin.
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylhydroxamic AcidA chelating agent used alongside preservatives in order to boost their antimicrobial activity.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Benzyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl BenzoateA fragrance ingredient with a fruity and woody scent. It is considered an allergen according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), which means that care must be taken when determining usage levels in skincare products.
Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Citral
Est. %0.15
Function
Origin
Citral

A fragrant compound found in many essential oils (especially lemon myrtle and lemongrass essential oil). It has a sweet, lemon-like scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citral, or at least do a patch test before using.

Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)A bright yellow colorant that is often also listed as FD&C Yellow 5.
Red 40 (CI 16035)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Red 40 (CI 16035)A colorant that also goes by the name of Allura Red AC or FD&C Red 40. This ingredient is an approved colorant for skincare, food, and even tattoo inks. The color produced by Red 40 (CI 16035) is a jewel-tone red with yellow undertones.