Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen Review

Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen
2.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.9 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen has to offer:
 
  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 2.2 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Key Benefits of Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen:
 

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 2.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of Humectancy and Occlusivity: a low Humectancy of 2.4 out of 10 and a low Occlusivity of 1.9 out of 10.

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

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

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (est. ≈3.0%) and Tocopheryl Acetate (est. ≈2.5%).

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.

Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

With an SPF of 30, Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen 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: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen to your skincare routine:
 

As a Standalone Moisturizer, It Has Relatively Low Moisturizing Potential

If you use Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen for moisturizing purposes, please keep in mind that it provides relatively light moisturizing on its own, and, more importantly, it’s not optimal for any skin type.

On one hand, it has low occlusivity, which suits oily and combination skin. On the other hand, it has a low estimated concentration of humectants, which are essential for effective moisturizing of all skin types, including oily skin.

Therefore, if used as a standalone moisturizer, this product should be paired with a humectant-rich moisturizer for optimal skin hydration.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

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

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that Gluconolactone may reduce wrinkles, its 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, 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 Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution
  • Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure and light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates

Cons: 

  • Minimal moisturizing efficacy, even for oily skin - something to keep in mind if this is your only moisturizer in your routine
  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
9.4
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Caramel
Function:
Origin:
Polyester-5
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Phospholipids
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Ethyl Ferulate
Function:
Origin:
Urea
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Gluconolactone
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.9
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
2.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.4 10
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.9 20
1.9
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
2.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.4 10
2.4
All humectants
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.9 20
1.9
All occlusives
3.9
3.0
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
Gluconolactone
-
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
3
2.5
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 6.1 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
6.1
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
3
Tocopheryl Acetate
2.5
Tocopherol
0.3
Ethyl Ferulate
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. %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.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %9.4
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.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %6
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.
Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Argania Spinosa Kernel OilA fatty oil from Moroccan argan tree kernels commonly used as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. Its uniqueness comes from its compounds: vitamin E, phospholipids, phenolic compounds, and rare phytosterols with antioxidant and emollient effects.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %2.5
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.

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
Glycerin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Caramel
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
CaramelA natural ingredient that is derived from the heat treatment of table sugar. Caramel is used in skincare as a natural colorant that can create transparent, dark brown solutions. It also works as a fragrance, where it provides a sweet, sugary scent.
Polyester-5
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Polyester-5
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract

For the most part, shea butter extract has the same composition and uses as the regular shea butter. It is used in skincare products as an emollient ingredient.

Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.

Phospholipids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhospholipidsA large group of lipids that are an essential component of every single cell membrane in the body. They have excellent emollient properties. Phospholipids are also utilized in the manufacturing of ‘fancy’ formulations such as liposomes.
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.

Ethyl Ferulate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethyl Ferulate
Urea
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
UreaUrea can be found in urine, skin, and other tissues as a degradation product of proteins. In concentrations below 5%, urea is humectant moisturizing. At concentrations above 10% it is keratolytic, that helps to break away old, flaking, and cracked skin.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Gluconolactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GluconolactoneA PHA derived from glucose. It has exfoliating and humectant properties and acts as a penetration enhancer for other ingredients. It has also been shown to assist in the treatment of acne and the prevention of photoaging.
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Sodium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Chloride

You’re definitely familiar with sodium chloride, even if you don’t think you are. It’s table salt! Salt works well with some cleansing ingredients (surfactants) to thicken them into gels. It also acts as a stabilizer for water-in-oil emulsions.

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.

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.
Sorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbic AcidAn organic acid that can be naturally found in the berries of the Mountain ash, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It is used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent, protecting a skincare product from spoiling.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
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.