Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ Review

Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+
3.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.6 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
3.4Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ has to offer:
 
  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.4 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ has an anti-wrinkle rating of 3.4 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Key Benefits of Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+:
 

Lightweight Moisturizer Well-Suited for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a high humectancy of 6.6 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is well-suited for oily skin, providing moderate hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients.

It can also be a good option for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

A Humectant Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant enhancement 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.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 3.4 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Asiaticoside (est. ≈0.3%),
     derived from the plant Centella asiatica, an ingredient with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 27 participants (Lee et al.). This study demonstrated that a cream containing 0.1% asiaticoside reduced the average wrinkle depth by 8% after 12 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without asiaticoside).
  • Niacinamide (est. ≈0.3%),
     one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
Among others, Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ also contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Adenosine, Madecassic Acid, and Asiatic Acid. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to 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.

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

With an SPF of 50, Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum 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 AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Pros & Cons of Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Tocobo Cica Calming Sun Serum SPF 50+ to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing well-suited for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • 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
70
6
4
3
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dibutyl Adipate
Function:
Origin:
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Function:
Origin:
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-15
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Gardenia Florida Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Centella Asiatica Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Centella Asiatica Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Dextrin
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Hyaluronic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Asiaticoside
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Madecassoside
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Madecassic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Asiatic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.6
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
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.6 10
6.6
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
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
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
All humectants 6.6 10
6.6
All humectants
6.6
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
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
3 /10 0.1 0.3 3
6 /10 4 0.3 0.4
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
3.4
Asiaticoside
3
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
3 /10
when present at, %
0.1
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Niacinamide
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Centella Asiatica Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Madecassic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Asiatic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
3.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.4 3 No
All antioxidants
2.4
Asiaticoside
0.3
Niacinamide
0.3
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
0.3
Centella Asiatica Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Hyaluronic Acid
0.3
Madecassoside
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.8 5 No
All soothing
1.8
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
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.
Dibutyl Adipate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Dibutyl Adipate
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Est. %4
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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %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.

Ethylhexyl Triazone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Est. %1.3
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.
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Niacinamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
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.
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.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.

Polysilicone-15
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-15
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) ExtractAn emollient extract derived from sunflower seeds that is packed with skin-benefiting ingredients such as squalene, phytosterols, phospholipids, amino acids, and antioxidant vitamin E.
Gardenia Florida Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gardenia Florida Flower Extract
Centella Asiatica Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centella Asiatica Root Extract
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centella Asiatica Leaf ExtractA well-researched soothing, wound-healing, and promising anti-aging extract that is obtained from the leaves of the Gotu Kola.
Centella Asiatica Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centella Asiatica ExtractAn extract from the leaves of the Gotu kola. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. It increases the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin.
Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Ferox Leaf Extract
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.

Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
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.
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.
Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6A polymeric ingredient that works best in water-based formulas to create gel textures. It helps to stabilize emulsions and control viscosity.
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Stearate CitrateAn ingredient composed of citric acid, stearic acid, and glycerin. Glyceryl stearate citrate acts as an emollient in skincare products, making the skin appear smooth and pleasant to the touch.
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl TaurateAn emulsion stabilizer and thickener with gelling properties. The products containing this ingredient frequently feature lightweight and refreshing aesthetics upon application to the 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.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Dextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DextrinA partially hydrolyzed potato starch, most commonly used as a viscosity controlling and binding agent. When dispersed into water, it can create textures ranging from a thick paste to a soft gel.
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.

Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharomyces Ferment FiltrateA yeast mixture that contains humectant moisturizing amino acids, nucleic acids (building blocks of DNA), peptides, various minerals, and vitamins.
Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate
Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate
Potassium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Hyaluronate
Hyaluronic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hyaluronic Acid

A potent, skin-identical humectant moisturizing ingredient that is able to bind water 1000 times its own weight. The anti-aging benefits of hyaluronic acid are due to its ability to stimulate the synthesis of collagen in the skin.

Asiaticoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Asiaticoside

A Gotu Kola or Centella Asiatica derivative with confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate CrosspolymerA modified version of regular hyaluronic acid. It attracts large volumes of water, thereby making it an effective humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate
Madecassoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MadecassosideAn isolated Gotu Kola compound. It helps to increase collagen and hyaluronic acid production in the skin and assists in wound healing.
Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acetylated HyaluronateA chemically modified version of hyaluronic acid. It is more stable and less sticky than regular HA, while still providing the same humectant moisturizing properties (according to the manufacturer). There have been no clinical studies to confirm this.
Madecassic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Madecassic AcidAn isolated bioactive compound from Gotu Kola. It increases collagen and hyaluronic acid production in the skin and helps to treat wounds, scars, and burns.
Asiatic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Asiatic AcidA compound isolated from Gotu Kola, a promising anti-wrinkle medicinal plant from Southeast Asia. It is claimed to increase the production of collagen and help with the wound healing process.
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.