Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50
Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50
Product Description
A lightweight, fragrance-free daily facial moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. Clinically proven to hydrate for 8 hours while defending against UVA/UVB rays. Dermatologist-tested formula with micronized titanium dioxide that absorbs quickly without leaving a white residue.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
Protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays with a combination of chemical and mineral filters for comprehensive sun protection.
8-Hour Hydration
Clinically proven to provide long-lasting moisture with glycerin and propylene glycol that help retain skin's natural moisture throughout the day.
5 Signs of Sensitivity Defense
Formulated to defend against dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and weakened skin barrier commonly experienced by sensitive skin.
Micronized Titanium Dioxide
Physical sunscreen particles are micronized for quick absorption and minimal white cast, making it suitable for daily wear under makeup.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Not recommended. Contains Oxybenzone (6%), a chemical sunscreen that may act as an endocrine disruptor and can enter the bloodstream. Also contains parabens. Consult your healthcare provider.
Not safe. Contains Stearic Acid and Glyceryl Stearate which can feed malassezia yeast. Those with fungal acne should choose FA-safe alternatives.
Clinically tested and proven not to clog pores. Oil-free formula suitable for acne-prone skin when fungal acne is not a concern.
Dermatologist tested and clinically proven to be gentle on sensitive skin. Fragrance-free to minimize irritation risk.
May cause slight stinging if it gets into eyes. Apply carefully around eye area and rinse with water if contact occurs.
Formula includes Methylparaben and Ethylparaben as preservatives. Some users prefer paraben-free alternatives.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
βοΈ Titanium Dioxide 5.7% Proven
A physical (mineral) UV filter that reflects and scatters UV radiation. Provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays without penetrating the skin.
- Protection Range: UVB + UVA II (280-340nm)
- Benefits: Photostable, non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin
- Form: Micronized for better cosmetic elegance and reduced white cast
π§ͺ Oxybenzone 6% Proven
A chemical UV filter that absorbs UVA and UVB rays. One of the most effective broad-spectrum filters but also the most controversial.
- Protection Range: UVB + UVA II (270-350nm)
- Peak Absorption: 288nm and 325nm
- Concentration: 6% (FDA allows up to 6%)
𧴠Octinoxate 7.5% Proven
A widely-used chemical UVB filter that absorbs UV radiation before it can damage skin. Provides effective protection but is not photostable on its own.
- Protection Range: UVB (280-320nm)
- Peak Absorption: 310nm
- Stability: Loses 10% SPF within 35 minutes; stabilized by other filters in formula
π§ Glycerin High Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Found naturally in human skin and is one of the most effective hydrating ingredients available.
- Source: Studies show glycerin is more effective as a humectant than hyaluronic acid
- Benefits: Attracts water to skin, improves skin barrier, antimicrobial properties
- Safety: Naturally occurring in skin, non-irritating for all skin types
πΏ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Low Proven
A potent antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and environmental stressors.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, skin conditioning
- Benefits: Neutralizes free radicals, supports skin healing, helps stabilize sunscreen filters
- Synergy: Works well with other antioxidants and sunscreen ingredients
27 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.5%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 7%, Oxybenzone 6%, Titanium Dioxide 5.7%
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dimethicone, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Cyclomethicone, Stearic Acid, Dimethiconol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Tocopherol, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylparaben, Chlorphenesin, Cetyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Methylparaben, Xanthan Gum
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the final step of your AM skincare routine. This product combines moisturizer and sunscreen in one, so no additional SPF needed. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure.
π How to Use
Apply Liberally
Use approximately a nickel-sized amount for face and neck. If using the pump, dispense 2-3 pumps. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Smooth evenly over face, neck, and upper chest using upward motions. Take 1-3 minutes to ensure full absorption and no white residue.
Wait Before Makeup
Allow 15-20 minutes for the product to fully absorb and set before applying makeup or going into direct sunlight.
Reapply as Needed
Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying for continued protection.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry to normal or sensitive skin
- You want a 2-in-1 moisturizer and sunscreen
- You need a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula
- You prefer lightweight, non-greasy textures
- You want dermatologist-recommended protection
- You wear makeup over your sunscreen
- You have eczema or easily irritated skin
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer mineral-only sunscreens
- You want a paraben-free formula
- You have very oily skin (may feel too moisturizing)
- You need reef-safe sunscreen for ocean activities
- You want oxybenzone-free products
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Excellent choice. Provides long-lasting hydration with glycerin and propylene glycol. Won't dry out skin further.
Perfect daily moisturizer with SPF. Lightweight formula absorbs well without feeling heavy or greasy.
Works well on dry areas but may feel slightly moisturizing on T-zone. Allow extra time for absorption.
May feel too moisturizing for very oily skin. Can leave a slight sheen initially. Consider oil-free alternatives.
Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin. Great for eczema-prone skin.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. Won't clog pores. However, not suitable if you have fungal acne specifically.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Protection
Skin feels soft and moisturized immediately after application. SPF protection begins once product is applied evenly and absorbed.
95% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Daily use leads to smoother, more hydrated skin. Less dryness, tightness, and irritation. Skin barrier begins to strengthen.
78% noticed softer skinSun Damage Prevention
Consistent daily use helps prevent new sun spots, premature aging, and UV damage. Existing skin remains protected from photoaging.
85% noticed even skin toneAnti-Aging Benefits
Years of consistent SPF 50 use significantly reduces risk of skin cancer and prevents premature wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.
Dermatologist recommended for lifeβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- High SPF 50+ protection in one easy step
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Lightweight, absorbs without heavy residue
- Dermatologist recommended brand
- Works great under makeup
- Gentle on eczema and sensitive skin
- Non-comedogenic, won't clog pores
- Affordable drugstore price point
- 8-hour hydration claim
β Criticized
- Contains oxybenzone (endocrine disruptor concern)
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains parabens as preservatives
- Small bottle (1.7 oz) for daily face use
- Can feel greasy on oily skin
- Slight white cast initially on darker skin tones
- Not reef-safe for ocean activities
- Takes time to fully absorb
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar hybrid formula but with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Lower SPF 30 but includes barrier-repairing ingredients. Larger 3oz size.
Similar chemical sunscreen formula with SPF 50. Contains helioplex technology for photostability. Slightly lighter texture but less moisturizing.
Free of common chemical irritants including parabens. Lower SPF but formulated for ultra-sensitive skin. No fragrance, dyes, or formaldehyde releasers.
French pharmacy alternative with prebiotic thermal water, ceramides, and niacinamide. More hydrating formula but lower SPF 30. Oil-free and non-comedogenic.
π Comparison with Competitors
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50
$15.99CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
$17.99Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55
$11.97La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 50
$33.50π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for the specific timeframe.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (59-86Β°F / 15-30Β°C). Do not freeze.
Pump tube bottle for hygienic dispensing. Prime pump for 20-30 seconds on first use to initiate product flow.
Yes, TSA approved. 1.7 fl oz (50ml) is under the 3.4oz/100ml limit for carry-on luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No, this product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains Oxybenzone (6%), a chemical sunscreen that has been shown to be absorbed through the skin and detected in the bloodstream. Studies suggest it may act as an endocrine disruptor. The formula also contains parabens (Methylparaben and Ethylparaben). Cetaphil has not clinically tested this product on pregnant or breastfeeding women. Consider mineral-only sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as safer alternatives during pregnancy.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne, including Stearic Acid and Glyceryl Stearate (fatty acid esters). If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, choose a FA-safe sunscreen alternative. Consider Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF 50 which is listed as fungal acne safe, or other mineral-only options free of problematic esters and fatty acids.
Yes, this sunscreen can be used with active ingredients, but timing matters. Apply vitamin C serums in the morning before this moisturizer for enhanced antioxidant protection. Use retinol, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid) at night only, as they can increase sun sensitivity. Always use this SPF 50 protection during the day when using any of these actives. Wait 1-2 minutes between serum layers and this moisturizer for optimal absorption.
This product is specifically formulated for dry to normal and sensitive skin types. It excels for those with eczema-prone skin, easily irritated skin, or those who need fragrance-free, hypoallergenic options. It's also suitable for acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic) unless you specifically have fungal acne. Those with very oily skin may find it too moisturizing and may prefer an oil-free, mattifying sunscreen instead.
You'll feel immediate hydration and smoothness upon application. SPF protection begins immediately once the product is properly applied. Within 1-2 weeks of daily use, you'll notice improved skin texture, reduced dryness and tightness, and a stronger moisture barrier. The long-term anti-aging and sun damage prevention benefits accumulate over months and years of consistent daily use. Remember, sunscreen is about prevention - you're protecting against future damage you won't see immediately.
This product should be the last step of your morning skincare routine, as it serves as both your moisturizer and sunscreen. Apply after cleansing, toner, serums, and eye cream. Wait 15-20 minutes before applying makeup to allow full absorption. At night, use a different moisturizer without SPF, as sunscreen ingredients aren't needed while sleeping. Always remove this product thoroughly at night with a cleanser or double cleansing method.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has very low pore-clogging potential. It is clinically tested and labeled as non-comedogenic and oil-free. The formula is hypoallergenic and designed to not irritate skin or clog pores. However, individual reactions vary, and those with extremely acne-prone skin should patch test first. Note: this rating applies to regular acne - for fungal acne, this product is NOT safe.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. After opening, the product remains effective and safe to use for one year when stored properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The 1.7 fl oz bottle typically lasts 1-2 months with daily face and neck application (using proper amounts for sun protection). Check the packaging for the PAO symbol (an open jar icon with "12M").
Verdict: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 50 is a solid, affordable choice for those with dry, normal, or sensitive skin who want a reliable 2-in-1 moisturizer and sunscreen. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula is dermatologist-recommended and provides excellent SPF 50+ protection. However, the inclusion of oxybenzone and parabens means it's not suitable for pregnant/breastfeeding individuals or those seeking cleaner formulas. It's also not fungal acne safe. For most people seeking a simple, effective daily SPF moisturizer at a drugstore price, this is a proven performer backed by over 70 years of Cetaphil's sensitive skin expertise.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 |
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 4 |
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 3 |
Octocrylene
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Benzophenone-3
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Titanium Dioxide
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Opacifying, Cosmetic Colorant, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|