Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50
Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer With SPF 50
Product Description
Product overview
A richly hydrating anti-aging moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, formulated with niacinamide, shea butter, and powerful antioxidants to defend against sun damage while improving skin tone and texture for normal to dry skin types.
Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Protects against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays with 96.88% UVA and 93.75% UVB protection in lab tests.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad Spectrum SPF 50
Protects against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays with 96.88% UVA and 93.75% UVB protection in lab tests.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Improves skin tone, reduces the appearance of pores, and strengthens the skin barrier for a more even complexion.
Antioxidant Complex
Apple, coffee seed, and licorice root extracts combat free radical damage from environmental stressors and pollution.
Intensive Hydration
Shea butter and glycerin deeply moisturize while dimethicone creates a protective barrier to lock in hydration all day.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and octisalate. These chemical UV filters have shown potential endocrine-disrupting properties. Mineral sunscreens are generally recommended during pregnancy.
Contains shea butter, glyceryl stearate, and PEG-100 stearate which may feed or create an environment for Malassezia yeast overgrowth.
Rated 1/5 for pore-clogging potential. Generally well-tolerated by most skin types without causing breakouts.
Chemical sunscreen filters may cause irritation for some sensitive skin types. Medium irritation potential according to dermatological analysis.
Contains oxybenzone and octinoxate which are banned in Hawaii and other regions due to potential coral reef damage.
82% top allergen free. Free from nickel, lanolin, talc, and parabens. Contains no common fragrance allergens.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSChemical UV Filter Complex 25.5% totalProven
A combination of five chemical sunscreen actives providing comprehensive broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays without the white cast of mineral sunscreens.
- Avobenzone 3%: Primary UVA filter protecting against aging rays (315-400nm)
- Octinoxate 7.5%: UVB filter preventing sunburn (290-320nm)
- Homosalate 5%: UVB filter that helps dissolve other sunscreen agents
- Octisalate 5%: UVB filter with emollient properties
- Oxybenzone 5%: Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB filter
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2%Proven
A multitasking powerhouse that improves skin tone, reduces pore appearance, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps regulate oil production.
- Studies show: 2% effective for barrier support and evening skin tone
- Mechanism: Boosts ceramide production and inhibits melanin transfer
- Synergy: Works well with antioxidants present in formula
Shea ButterProven
Rich natural emollient packed with fatty acids, vitamins A, E, and F to deeply nourish, soften, and protect dry skin while providing antioxidant benefits.
- Contains: Stearic and linoleic acids for moisture retention
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, barrier repair, intense hydration
- Natural SPF: Provides additional minimal sun protection (SPF 3-4)
Antioxidant ComplexPromising
A blend of powerful plant extracts including apple, coffee seed, and licorice root that work together to neutralize free radicals and brighten skin tone.
- Apple Extract: Rich in polyphenols, malic acid for gentle brightening
- Coffee Seed Extract: Caffeine helps reduce puffiness, antioxidant protection
- Licorice Root: Contains glabridin for skin brightening and soothing
- Vitamin E: Lipid-soluble antioxidant that stabilizes formula
Hydrating IngredientsProven
A multi-layer hydration system combining humectants that draw water into skin and occlusives that seal moisture in.
- Glycerin: Powerful humectant, more effective than hyaluronic acid in some studies
- Dimethicone: Creates breathable protective film to prevent moisture loss
- Allantoin: Soothes irritation and promotes skin healing
- Aloe Vera: Additional hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits
45 ingredients
Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (5%), Octinoxate (7.50%), Octisalate (5%), Oxybenzone (5%), Water (Aqua), Silica, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Allantoin, Niacinamide, Tocopherol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Atractylodes Macrocephala Root Powder, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Mahonia Aquifolium Root Extract, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Sarcosine, Capryloyl Glycine, Maltooligosyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Glucoside, Dimethiconol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Hexylene Glycol, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the LAST step in your morning skincare routine. This product serves as both moisturizer and sunscreen, so no additional SPF needed. Wait 15 minutes before sun exposure.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply Generously
After completing your morning skincare routine, dispense about a nickel-sized amount (1/4 teaspoon for face and neck).
Spread Evenly
Apply in upward, outward strokes to face, neck, and décolletage. Don't forget ears and hairline if exposed to sun.
Wait Before Sun Exposure
Allow 15 minutes for chemical filters to fully activate before going outdoors. Product should be absorbed before makeup application.
Reapply as Needed
Reapply every 2 hours during prolonged sun exposure, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal to dry skin needing hydration + sun protection
- You want a moisturizer with high SPF in one step
- You experience premature aging signs (fine lines, uneven tone)
- You prefer chemical sunscreens with no white cast
- You need a makeup-friendly base that doesn't pill
- You want antioxidant protection from pollution
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (choose mineral SPF)
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia-prone skin
- You prefer mineral/physical sunscreen ingredients
- You have very oily skin (may feel too rich)
- You plan to swim in coral reef areas (reef-unsafe ingredients)
- You have sensitivity to chemical UV filters
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for dry skin. Rich shea butter and glycerin provide intense, long-lasting hydration without heaviness.
Perfect balance of hydration and protection. Absorbs well and works beautifully under makeup.
Works well on dry areas, may feel slightly rich on oily T-zone. Consider applying lightly to oily areas.
May feel too moisturizing. Consider Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 instead (designed for oily skin).
Fragrance-free but contains chemical UV filters which may irritate some sensitive skin. Patch test recommended.
Ideal for aging concerns. High SPF prevents further damage while niacinamide and antioxidants address existing signs of aging.
Results timeline
8-12 WEEKSInstant Hydration & Protection
Skin feels immediately softer and more hydrated. SPF protection begins 15 minutes after application. No white cast visible.
95% noticed immediate comfortImproved Skin Texture
Consistent daily use leads to smoother skin texture. Flakiness and dry patches begin to diminish. Makeup applies more evenly.
80% reported smoother skinVisible Tone Improvement
Niacinamide and licorice root show effects on skin tone. Dark spots appear lighter and overall complexion looks more even and radiant.
70% saw brighter skin toneLong-term Anti-Aging Benefits
Consistent sun protection prevents new damage. Fine lines appear softer. Skin barrier is strengthened with improved overall resilience.
65% noted fewer fine linesRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection
- No white cast, works on all skin tones
- Excellent under makeup, doesn't pill
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Rich hydration without heavy feeling
- Contains proven anti-aging actives
- Cruelty-free and paraben-free
- Lab-tested UV protection (96%+ UVA/UVB)
Criticized
- Contains chemical UV filters (not pregnancy-safe)
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Price point higher than drugstore options
- 2oz bottle may not last long with daily use
- Too moisturizing for very oily skin
- Contains oxybenzone (reef-unfriendly)
- May feel sticky initially before absorbing
- Chemical filters may irritate sensitive skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lower SPF 30 but includes ceramides for barrier repair. Contains niacinamide. Lighter texture better for combo skin. Also uses chemical UV filters.
SPF 30 with prebiotic thermal water. Contains niacinamide and ceramides. Better for sensitive skin. Also chemical sunscreen but gentler formula.
Same SPF 50 with hyaluronic acid focus instead of shea butter. Water-gel texture lighter than this cream. Better for oily-combo skin types.
Mineral + chemical hybrid. Contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. More suitable for sensitive skin. Similar price point with zinc oxide added.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEPaula's Choice RESIST SPF 50
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Chemical sunscreen filters degrade over time, so replace after 1 year for optimal protection.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep below 77°F (25°C). Do not leave in hot cars.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Opaque packaging protects formula from light degradation. Easy to dispense controlled amounts.
Yes, 2 oz (60ml) size is under TSA 3.4 oz liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in carry-on toiletry bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo, this product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains chemical UV filters including oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and octisalate. These ingredients have shown potential endocrine-disrupting properties in studies, and oxybenzone has been detected in breast milk. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are generally recommended as safer alternatives. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains shea butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter), glyceryl stearate, and PEG-100 stearate, which can feed or create a moisture-rich environment that promotes Malassezia yeast overgrowth. If you're prone to fungal acne, pityrosporum folliculitis, or seborrheic dermatitis, look for products specifically formulated to be malassezia-safe with minimal fatty acids and esters.
Yes, this product works well with most actives. For best results: Apply vitamin C serum in the morning before this moisturizer for enhanced antioxidant protection. Retinol, AHAs, and BHAs are best used at night since this is a daytime SPF product. The niacinamide in this formula actually complements vitamin C (despite old myths about incompatibility). If using strong actives, wait 1-2 minutes between layers to prevent pilling.
This moisturizer is specifically formulated for normal to dry skin types. The rich shea butter and emollient formula provides intense hydration ideal for dry, dehydrated, or mature skin. It's also excellent for those with early aging concerns. If you have oily or combination skin, consider Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 instead, which has a lighter, oil-free texture designed for shine-prone skin.
Results vary by concern: Immediate hydration and sun protection are felt right away. Improved skin texture typically appears within 1-2 weeks of daily use. Skin brightening and tone evening from niacinamide becomes noticeable around 4-6 weeks. Long-term anti-aging benefits from consistent SPF protection develop over 8-12 weeks and beyond. Remember, the primary benefit of daily SPF is prevention of future damage rather than reversing existing damage.
This product should be the LAST step in your morning skincare routine. The order should be: Cleanser, Toner (optional), Treatment serums (vitamin C, etc.), Eye cream, then this moisturizer with SPF 50. Since it contains sunscreen, you don't need an additional SPF product. Apply generously and wait 15 minutes before sun exposure. If wearing makeup, allow 1-2 minutes for absorption before applying primer or foundation.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. While it contains shea butter, the formula is well-balanced and hasn't been shown to cause breakouts in clinical testing. However, everyone's skin is different. If you're highly acne-prone, patch test first or consider the lighter RESIST Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 formula. The product is also labeled non-comedogenic by Paula's Choice.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. After this time, the chemical UV filters may degrade and provide less effective sun protection. The 2 oz tube typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use on face and neck (using the recommended 1/4 teaspoon amount). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the product changes color, smell, or texture, discontinue use. Always check the expiration date on the packaging.
Verdict: Paula's Choice RESIST Skin Restoring Moisturizer SPF 50 is an excellent choice for those with normal to dry skin seeking a hydrating daytime moisturizer with robust sun protection. The combination of SPF 50, niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich botanicals delivers both immediate comfort and long-term anti-aging benefits. However, the chemical UV filters make it unsuitable for pregnant/nursing women or those with fungal acne concerns. If you're looking for a no-white-cast, makeup-friendly SPF moisturizer and don't fall into the cautionary groups, this is a solid investment in your skin's future.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 6 |
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 4 |
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Benzophenone-3
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|