True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 Review

True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30
5.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.8 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Key Benefits of True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30:
 

Suitable Moisturizer for Normal Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of humectancy and occlusivity: a moderate humectancy of 5.8 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.8 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈9.0%).

This type of moisturizer is suitable for people with normal skin who want essential hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a moderate amount of humectants and occlusive ingredients to provide dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

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, True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield 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 AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 to your skincare routine:
 

If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

This product contains lactic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage.

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 contains a rather average amount of humectants.

People with normal skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield 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 Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract 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 True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of True Botanicals Skin Barrier Sun Shield SPF 30 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Suitable for moisturizing normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
  • Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates

Cons: 

  • Ideally needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

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
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Silybum Marianum Ethyl Ester
Function:
Origin:
Pisum Sativum (Pea) Peptide
Function:
Origin:
Terminalia Chebula Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Haematococcus Pluvialis Powder
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Water
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Jojobate
Function:
Origin:
Jojoba Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Jojoba Esters
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Acacia Senegal Gum
Function:
Origin:
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Phenethyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Phytate
Function:
Origin:
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.8
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
11.5
9.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.8 10
5.8
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 11.5 20
5.8
9.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.8 10
5.8
All humectants
5.8
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 11.5 20
5.8
All occlusives
11.5
9.0
1.3
0.3
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
Camellia Sinensis Leaf 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
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.2 3 No
All antioxidants
1.2
Haematococcus Pluvialis Powder
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.5 5 No
All soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water
Est. %65
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Coco-Caprylate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Coco-CaprylateA naturally-derived or synthetically produced oil with a very light feel. An alternative to silicones, this ingredient spreads quickly and doesn't leave a residue on skin.
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid CopolymerA naturally-derived film-former that increases water resistance of a product. It is also referred to as an alternative to dimethicone.
Water
Est. %2
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.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran ExtractAn extract from rice bran, the brown outer part of the rice kernel. It contains emollient fatty acids and antioxidants such as tocopherols (vitamin E) and γ-oryzanol.
Squalane
Est. %1.3
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.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %1
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.
Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil
Silybum Marianum Ethyl Ester
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silybum Marianum Ethyl Ester
Pisum Sativum (Pea) Peptide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pisum Sativum (Pea) Peptide
Terminalia Chebula Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Terminalia Chebula Fruit Extract
Haematococcus Pluvialis Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Haematococcus Pluvialis Powder
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceA gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Water
Isopropyl Jojobate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl Jojobate
Jojoba Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Jojoba Alcohol
Jojoba Esters
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Jojoba EstersA mixture of various wax esters from jojoba oil. It is used in skincare products as a fantastic emollient, soothing, and occlusive moisturizing agent that won't leave a sticky, oily feeling on the skin.
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.
Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
Acacia Senegal Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acacia Senegal GumA formula helper, also known as gum arabic, derived from the African Acacia tree. It is used in skincare formulas due to its good adhesive and film-forming properties.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateA licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
Allantoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
Phenethyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phenethyl AlcoholA multifunctional ingredient that primarily serves as a preservative. Derived from the Chinese cinnamon tree, it provides broad-spectrum protection for skincare products through its antimicrobial efficacy.
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.
Sodium Phytate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PhytateSodium phytate is a chelating agent that serves to remove heavy metal ions from water. Removing metal ions helps other ingredients, such as antioxidants and preservatives, to perform better and keep products from separating.
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment FiltrateA biotechnological fermentation ingredient that is created by feeding radish root to Leuconostoc kimchii. It allegedly contains organic acids and a mixture of peptides known as bacteriocins – which have antimicrobial activity.
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.