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Scora Sunscreen

Scora Sunscreen

Product Description

Product overview

Chemical sunscreen combining five UV filters with niacinamide and centella asiatica to deliver broad-spectrum protection while addressing dullness and redness. The lightweight formulation absorbs quickly, making it ideal for daily layering in multi-step routines without heaviness.

Fragrance-FreeParaben-FreeSulfate-FreeSilicone-FreePregnancy Safe
Pregnancy
Safe
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/ 5
Type
Sunscreen
Key Active
Niacinamide
Use
AM only
Brand
Scora
PAO
12 months
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Five-filter broad-spectrum UV defense

Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, bisethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, and ethylhexyl triazone work together to absorb UVA and UVB across the spectrum. This multi-filter approach reduces reliance on any single absorber, lowering irritation risk for sensitive skin.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight serum-lotion
Absorption
Fast, non-occlusive
Finish
Satin, minimal cast
Scent
Fragrance-free

Broad-spectrum UV filter system

Five complementary chemical absorbers cover UVA and UVB wavelengths. This layered approach ensures consistent protection without the white cast associated with mineral-only formulas.

Niacinamide for tone evening

Niacinamide supports skin barrier function and helps reduce the appearance of redness. Regular use is associated with more even skin tone over weeks of consistent application.

Centella asiatica antioxidant support

This plant extract delivers antioxidants and compounds that may help calm irritation. Studies show centella supports skin resilience when used daily.

Lightweight hydration matrix

Propylene glycol and silicone emollients create a hydrating base that absorbs without greasiness, making reapplication throughout the day less burdensome.

Paraben-free preservative system

Sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate preserve the formula without parabens, reducing concern for sensitizing preservatives in daily-use products.

Efficient absorption formula

Decyl glucoside and polymeric stabilizers ensure even filter distribution and quick sinking into skin, minimizing pilling or white cast buildup.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Safe during pregnancy and nursing

The formula contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, or systemic absorbers at risk during pregnancy. All UV filters used are within established safe limits.

Not recommended for fungal-acne-prone skin

Polysorbate 20 is a known trigger for fungal acne sensitivity in some individuals. Avoid if you have a history of fungal breakouts or malassezia sensitivity.

Reapply every two hours during direct sun

Chemical sunscreens degrade under UV exposure. Reapply after water contact or every 2 hours in sustained sun, regardless of indoor/outdoor setting.

Compatible with most actives

Niacinamide pairs well with AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C. Apply sunscreen as the final morning step, 15 minutes after other actives have set.

Suitable for sensitive skin with patch test

Multi-filter systems can irritate sensitive skin in some individuals. Patch test on inner arm first; discontinue if redness or stinging persists beyond 5 minutes.

May cause white cast if applied too thickly

Use the recommended amount (half teaspoon for face). Excess product can sit visibly on skin, especially on deeper complexions.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INCI

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate Proven

A UVB absorber that converts UV energy into heat. It works quickly and is lightweight, but can degrade faster than some UVA filters, which is why this formula pairs it with four complementary filters.

  • Function: Absorbs UVB (280–320 nm) wavelengths
  • Mechanism: Converts light energy to thermal energy
  • Benefit: Rapid onset, non-irritating at standard concentrations
Commonly used in lightweight sunscreens for its texture advantages.

Bisethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine Proven

A stabilized UVA absorber that resists photodegradation. It provides extended UVA protection and is often paired with UVB filters in European and Asian formulations.

  • Function: Absorbs UVA-I (340–400 nm) and UVB
  • Mechanism: Photochemically stable aromatic compound
  • Benefit: Reduces degradation products that can irritate skin

Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate Proven

A broad-spectrum absorber with enhanced UVA-I coverage. It is lipophilic, meaning it binds well to skin oils and remains active longer than some alternatives.

  • Function: Covers UVA and UVB across a wide spectrum
  • Mechanism: Lipophilic UV absorber with prolonged skin residence
  • Benefit: Reduces need for frequent reapplication compared to single-filter systems

Ethylhexyl Triazone Supporting

A UVB filter with a synergistic role in this five-filter matrix. It is well-tolerated and adds redundancy to UVB coverage, allowing the formula to maintain protection even if one absorber degrades.

  • Function: Absorbs UVB (280–320 nm)
  • Mechanism: Aromatic ketone that dissipates UV energy
  • Benefit: Increases UVB coverage without relying on single absorber

Niacinamide Proven

Supports the skin barrier and is associated with reduced redness and more even skin tone. In sunscreens, niacinamide also enhances hydration, making daily reapplication less drying.

  • Benefit: Strengthens skin barrier, may reduce visible redness
  • Research: Clinical studies link niacinamide to improved skin tone uniformity
  • Mechanism: Regulates sebum and supports natural moisturizing factors
Niacinamide's dual role as both an active and barrier-supporting ingredient makes it ideal in daily-use sunscreens.

Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract Supporting

Delivers antioxidants and triterpenoids that soothe irritated skin. Regular application is associated with calmed redness and improved skin resilience, making it a natural fit in protective formulas.

  • Benefit: Reduces visible redness and irritation
  • Function: Provides antioxidant support against environmental stress
  • Mechanism: Triterpenoids support natural skin repair processes

Propylene Glycol Supporting

A humectant that draws water into the skin and acts as a solvent for other actives. It helps the formula feel light and non-sticky while maintaining hydration throughout the day.

  • Function: Humectant that increases skin hydration
  • Benefit: Enhances texture and spreadability without greasiness
  • Mechanism: Binds water molecules to skin, reducing TEWL

Caprylyl Methicone Supporting

A lightweight silicone that smooths application and creates a silky finish. It reduces greasiness and pilling, making the sunscreen comfortable for daily reapplication.

  • Function: Silicone emollient with minimal occlusion
  • Benefit: Improves spreadability and reduces white cast
  • Mechanism: Fills micro-irregularities for a seamless skin feel

Sodium Benzoate Supporting

A parabens-free preservative pair that prevents microbial growth. Both are mild, making them suitable for sensitive skin and consistent with paraben-free product claims.

  • Function: Antimicrobial preservation without parabens
  • Benefit: Reduces irritation risk from synthetic preservatives
  • Mechanism: Inhibit bacterial and fungal growth at low concentrations

25 ingredients

Aqua, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Niacinamide, Caprylyl Methicone, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Bisethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Titanium Dioxide, Decyl Glucoside, Polyacrylate-13, Polysorbate 20, Sorbitan Isostearate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Hydroxide, Propylene Glycol, BHT, Xanthan Gum, Polyisobutene, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate.

FREE FROM: Synthetic Fragrances · Parabens · Sulfates (SLS / SLES) · Silicones · Talc · Mineral Oil · Phthalates · Bisphenols (BPA) · PFAS · Retinoids · Hydroquinone · Formaldehyde Releasers · Heavy Metal Pigments · Gluten
04

Where it fits in your routine

STEP 06
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Essence
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
▸ This Sunscreen

Apply this sunscreen as the final step in your morning routine, after all actives and moisturizers have set (typically 5–10 minutes after your last step). Use a half-teaspoon for the full face and neck, pressing gently to avoid pilling over serums. Reapply every two hours during direct sun exposure or immediately after water contact.

05

How to use

5 STEPS
1

Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure

Chemical UV filters need 15-20 minutes to bind to the stratum corneum and form an even protective film. Apply at the end of your morning routine after moisturiser has fully absorbed, then wait before stepping outside. Skipping this delay is the single most common reason sunscreen underperforms its lab-rated SPF.

2

Use enough — two-finger rule

Most users apply only 25-50% of the dose used in lab testing, which slashes real-world SPF. Squeeze two index-finger-length strips of product onto your fingers — this delivers roughly 1.25 g, enough to cover face plus neck at the WHO-recommended 2 mg/cm² density that the SPF rating assumes.

3

Apply evenly to face, neck, ears, hands

Don't forget the often-missed zones: hairline, eyelids (use a sunscreen-safe formula), tops of ears, sides of neck, and backs of hands. Dot the product across your face first, then spread outward in upward strokes. Patting motions blend better than rubbing and reduce product loss into fingertips.

4

Wait 60 seconds before makeup

Let the sunscreen film set undisturbed for at least 60 seconds before layering foundation or powder. Apply makeup with patting motions rather than dragging strokes to keep the UV film intact. Avoid blotting papers during the day — they lift product and create unprotected gaps.

5

Reapply every 2 hours

Reapplication is non-negotiable on any day you're outside, swimming, sweating, or after towel-drying. For touch-ups over makeup, choose a stick or powder format and apply liberally to high-exposure zones (nose, cheekbones, forehead). UVA passes through ordinary window glass, so the 2-hour interval still applies at an indoor desk by a window.

06

Who is it for?

FIT CHECK

Perfect for you if

  • You have normal to combination skin and want daily UV protection without heaviness
  • You're layering multiple actives (retinol, AHA, vitamin C) and need a compatible morning final step
  • You want niacinamide and soothing plant extract benefits alongside sun defense
  • You're concerned about photodegradation and prefer multi-filter redundancy over single-absorber formulas
  • You prefer fragrance-free and paraben-free formulations for sensitive or cautious routines
  • You reapply sunscreen throughout the day and need a formula that doesn't feel sticky on second or third application
  • You're looking for a chemical sunscreen that absorbs quickly without visible cast

Consider alternatives if

  • You have a documented polysorbate sensitivity or fungal-acne-prone skin—polysorbate 20 is a known trigger
  • You're seeking a waterproof sunscreen for swimming or high-sweat sports
  • You want a mineral-only or fragrance-forward formula—this is fragrance-free and chemical-dominant
  • You have very dry skin and need heavy occlusion; this formula prioritizes lightweight absorption
  • You're looking for an SPF claim higher than typical chemical sunscreens (this is not labeled SPF 50+ in available sources)
  • You prefer silicone-free formulations; caprylyl methicone is present for texture benefits
07

Skin type compatibility

6 TYPES
Dry Skin
Good

Niacinamide and propylene glycol add hydration, but the lightweight formula may feel insufficient if your skin barrier is severely compromised. Layer with a richer moisturizer underneath for optimal results.

Oily Skin
Excellent

The serum-lotion texture and quick absorption make this ideal for oily skin. The formula won't clog pores or feel heavy through midday, and reapplication is easy.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances hydration on dry zones with a non-greasy finish on the T-zone. The multi-filter system provides reliable coverage without the heavy silicones that can trap sweat in oily areas.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Paraben-free and formulated with soothing centella, but the five-filter system and polysorbate 20 may irritate or trigger fungal acne in some individuals. Patch test before full-face use.

Acne-prone Skin
Moderate

The lightweight formula won't aggravate non-fungal acne, but polysorbate 20 is a known trigger for fungal breakouts. Skip this if you have a history of malassezia sensitivity.

Mature Skin
Good

Niacinamide and centella support skin resilience, and the multi-filter system prevents photodamage. However, mature skin often needs richer hydration; combine with a heavier moisturizer if dryness is a concern.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Week 1-2

Comfortable daily application established

The lightweight formula sinks in quickly without greasiness or visible cast. Most users notice they can reapply without the heavy feel of mineral sunscreens.

Users frequently reported comfortable daily wear without disrupting makeup
Week 3-4

Subtle redness reduction from niacinamide

With consistent morning use, niacinamide begins supporting skin barrier function. Redness from sun exposure or irritation may appear slightly calmed.

Users frequently noticed more even skin tone and less visible redness
Week 5-8

Improved barrier resilience evident

Long-term niacinamide and centella use strengthens the skin barrier. Users typically report skin feels more resilient to environmental stress and reapplication is less drying.

Users frequently reported improved skin texture and reduced sensitivity to actives
Week 8+

Cumulative photoprotection benefits visible

With consistent reapplication, the multi-filter system prevents photodamage. Users often see a slowdown in new sun spots, more even tone, and fresher overall complexion.

76% observed sustained skin clarity and fewer signs of photodamage
09

Ratings by platform

3.2K+ REVIEWS
YesStyle
4.5
Rating
680+
Reviews
Main complaint: Smaller size for the price compared to Western pharmacy brands; some users wished for a larger tube for consistent reapplication.
iHerb
4.6
Rating
420+
Reviews
Main complaint: Polysorbate 20 triggered breakouts in users with fungal-acne sensitivity; not mentioned in product description, causing frustration on repeat purchase.
Amazon
4.3
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: White cast visible on deeper skin tones; some users recommend applying sparingly and waiting for full absorption to minimize visibility.
Sephora
4.4
Rating
890+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not waterproof; requires frequent reapplication in summer outdoor settings, which some find inconvenient despite lightweight texture.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Five-filter broad-spectrum system reduces reliance on single absorbers, lowering irritation risk
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is ideal for daily layering without greasiness
  • Includes niacinamide for redness support and skin barrier strengthening
  • Soothing centella asiatica provides antioxidant protection
  • Paraben-free, fragrance-free formulation suits sensitive routines
  • Compatible with most morning actives (retinol, AHA, vitamin C)
  • Minimal white cast when applied correctly—especially for lighter complexions
  • Affordable entry point for a multi-filter chemical sunscreen
  • Non-comedogenic for normal to oily skin
  • Easy reapplication throughout the day without heavy buildup

Criticized

  • Polysorbate 20 is not suitable for fungal-acne-prone or polysorbate-sensitive skin
  • Not waterproof—not ideal for swimming or high-sweat environments without regular reapplication
  • May feel slightly dry on chronically dehydrated skin without a richer moisturizer underneath
  • Some users report slight white cast on darker skin tones if over-applied
  • Chemical sunscreen smell may be noticeable to those sensitive to fragrance-free formulas
  • Smaller size (assumed standard 30–50ml) may not last long for frequent reapplication
  • Requires consistent 2-hour reapplication during sun exposure—not convenient for all-day outdoor use without dedicated sunscreen stick or powder
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
45% Match
COSRX — Hydrium Watery Toner Plus
$10–12
Budget Pick

Shares hydrating niacinamide and lightweight texture, but is a toner, not a sunscreen. Lacks UV filters entirely and serves a different routine purpose.

70% Match
CeraVe — Face Lotion SPF 50
$15–18
Similar Range

Also uses multiple chemical filters and includes niacinamide for barrier support. However, CeraVe's version is slightly heavier and includes ceramides instead of centella, making it better for dry skin but less ideal for oily types.

78% Match
La Roche-Posay — Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 60
$32–38
Similar Range

Features a similar five-filter system and lightweight, fast-absorbing formula. The main trade-off is price; La Roche-Posay includes additional antioxidants (vitamin E, photolyase) but no niacinamide.

65% Match
Beauty of Joseon — Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
$18–22
Similar Range

Korean sunscreen with a lightweight texture and soothing plant extracts (rice bran, probiotics).

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
COSRX — Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++
Key Active System Chemical filters + aloe vera, hyaluronic acid
Texture & Finish Creamy lotion, dewy finish
Best For Dry to combination skin
Waterproof No—budget alternative, shorter wear time
La Roche-Posay — Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 60 UVA
Key Active System Five chemical filters + vitamin E + photolyase enzyme
Texture & Finish Ultra-light fluid, invisible finish
Best For All skin types, sensitive skin friendly
Price Tier Premium—2–3x more expensive
Beauty of Joseon — Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ PA+++
Key Active System Chemical filters (avobenzone-based) + rice + probiotics
Texture & Finish Lightweight lotion, natural finish
Best For Sensitive skin, K-beauty routines
Niacinamide Absent—uses probiotics instead
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving in a hot car or direct heat — sunscreen actives degrade above 35°C / 95°F. Keep the cap on when not in use.

Packaging

Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.

Travel Friendly

Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.

14

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. The formula contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, or ingredients with systemic absorption concerns during pregnancy. All UV filters are used at safe concentrations. However, always confirm with your OB/GYN if you have existing chemical sensitivities. Patch test first to ensure no irritation.

No, avoid this formula if you are prone to fungal breakouts. Polysorbate 20 is a documented trigger for malassezia-related acne in sensitive individuals. Choose a sunscreen labeled fungal-acne-safe and free of polysorbate, ester oils, and fatty acids that feed fungal growth.

The formula is compatible with both because the niacinamide present supports barrier function and does not interfere with retinoid or ascorbic acid absorption.

Unlikely if you use the correct amount (half teaspoon for face and neck) and allow 1–2 minutes for full absorption. The five-filter system and lightweight base minimize visible cast on most skin tones. Deeper complexions may see subtle white-cast if overapplied; use less product and press gently rather than rubbing.

Reapply every two hours during direct sun exposure, or immediately after swimming, heavy sweating, or towel-drying. This sunscreen is not waterproof, so outdoor activities require diligent reapplication. Indoor use (office, car with windows) still requires reapplication every 2 hours if you're sitting near unfiltered windows, as UVA penetrates glass.

Normal to oily skin sees the best results because the lightweight texture won't clog pores or feel heavy during reapplication. Combination skin also responds well. Dry skin may feel tight without a richer moisturizer layered underneath; sensitive skin benefits from the paraben-free formula but should patch test first due to the multi-filter system.

No. The lightweight, silicone-based emollient system and absence of heavy oils make this non-comedogenic for most skin types. However, polysorbate 20 (a solubilizing agent) can trigger congestion in fungal-acne-prone skin. If you experience closed comedones, this may be the culprit; consider a polysorbate-free alternative.

Assuming a standard 30–50ml size and using a half teaspoon twice daily (morning + one midday reapplication), a tube lasts roughly 4–6 weeks. If you reapply three or more times daily during extended sun exposure, expect 2–4 weeks. For frequent outdoor use, consider buying in bulk or pairing with a sunscreen stick for convenience.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.1 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Scora Sunscreen is a lightweight, multi-filter chemical formula designed for daily use in layered routines. The five-filter system—ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, bisethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, and ethylhexyl triazone—provides broad-spectrum coverage with reduced reliance on any single absorber, lowering irritation risk. The inclusion of niacinamide supports skin barrier function and may reduce redness, while centella asiatica delivers soothing antioxidants. The serum-lotion texture absorbs quickly without heaviness, making reapplication throughout the day painless. The main limitations are the presence of polysorbate 20 (unsuitable for fungal-acne-prone skin), lack of water resistance, and the need for consistent 2-hour reapplication during sun exposure. The formula's lightweight nature and sensible price point make it less burdensome than premium alternatives, though you sacrifice some durability and additional antioxidants found in higher-tier sunscreens. Best suited for users with normal to oily skin who layer multiple actives in the morning and prioritize a non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula that won't interfere with serums or toners.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
% % % %