Sun Face Sensitive Protect Cream SPF 50+
Sun Face Sensitive Protect Cream SPF 50+
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed facial sunscreen with Advanced Spectral Technology that combines broadband UVA/UVB filters and Licochalcone A for very high sun protection plus HEVIS (blue) light defense. Formulated with Glycyrrhetinic Acid to support skin's own DNA repair mechanism. Fragrance-free, clinically proven for sensitive and atopic skin.
Advanced Spectral Technology
Combines broadband, photostable UVA/UVB filters (Tinosorb S, DHHB, Ensulizole) for very high protection that meets Cosmetics Europe's strict standards.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAdvanced Spectral Technology
Combines broadband, photostable UVA/UVB filters (Tinosorb S, DHHB, Ensulizole) for very high protection that meets Cosmetics Europe's strict standards.
HEVIS Light Defense
Licochalcone A neutralizes free radicals generated by high-energy visible (blue) light, protecting skin beyond UV alone.
DNA Repair Support
Glycyrrhetinic Acid from licorice root supports the skin's own DNA repair mechanism, reducing long-term cellular sun damage.
Sensitive Skin Friendly
Fragrance-free, paraben-free formula clinically proven suitable for sensitive and even atopic (eczema-prone) skin.
Moisturizing Base
Glycerin and emollient ingredients hydrate while protecting, allowing this to double as a light day cream for dry and sensitive skin.
Photostable Formula
Next-generation UV filters Tinosorb S and DHHB are inherently photostable, maintaining protection even after extended sun exposure.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters (DHHB, Tinosorb S, Ensulizole). No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. While no specific safety concerns are identified, some healthcare providers prefer mineral sunscreens during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains potential triggers including Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Cetearyl Alcohol, and C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (fatty acid esters that may feed malassezia yeast).
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. While it contains Cetearyl Alcohol (comedogenic rating 2), the overall formulation is unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Clinically and dermatologically tested. Proven suitable even for atopic (eczema-prone) skin. Fragrance-free to minimize irritation risk.
Can be layered over retinol and vitamin C serums. The broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection actually helps protect retinol-sensitized skin from further UV damage.
Safe and recommended to use over AHA/BHA exfoliants during the day. Exfoliated skin is more photosensitive, making high SPF protection essential.
Denatured alcohol is present, which helps create a lightweight feel and faster absorption. May be drying for very dry skin over time, but concentration appears moderate in this formula.
Uses newer-generation UV filters (DHHB, Tinosorb S) that are EU-approved but not yet FDA-approved. This product is formulated for the European and international market.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSDiethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (DHHB / Uvinul A Plus) ~3–10%Proven
A next-generation chemical UVA filter developed by BASF, known for its excellent photostability and high UVA absorption. It provides strong protection in the 320–400 nm range without degrading significantly in sunlight.
- UV Range: UVA (320–400 nm), peak absorption at ~354 nm
- Photostability: Highly photostable, does not degrade like Avobenzone
- Regulation: EU-approved up to 10%, not FDA-approved
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S) ~1.8–2.6%Proven
Considered one of the best UV filters available globally. Provides true broad-spectrum coverage across both UVA and UVB ranges and is inherently photostable. Also helps stabilize other less stable UV filters in the formula.
- UV Range: Broad-spectrum UVA + UVB (280–400 nm), peaks at ~310 nm and ~345 nm
- Photostability: Extremely photostable; barely degrades under UV exposure
- Source: 2007 EU study ranked Tinosorb S as the most effective single UV filter at max allowed concentration
Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid (Ensulizole) ~2–4%Proven
A water-soluble UVB filter that contributes to the lightweight, non-greasy feel of the formula. Its water solubility means minimal skin penetration, and it pairs well with UVA filters for complete coverage.
- UV Range: Primarily UVB (290–340 nm) with some UVA-II protection
- Photostability: Good photostability, helps stabilize other filters
- Texture Benefit: Water-soluble nature helps create non-oily, lightweight formulas
Glycyrrhetinic Acid <1%Proven
An active compound derived from licorice root with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and DNA-repair-supporting properties. Eucerin's key differentiating ingredient that helps protect skin cells at a deeper level.
- Function: Supports skin's own DNA repair mechanism after UV exposure
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation, beneficial for sensitive and reactive skin
- Research: Studies show effectiveness in protecting against UVB-induced skin damage
Licochalcone A (Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract) <1%Proven
A flavonoid extracted from Chinese licorice species (Glycyrrhiza Inflata). This is Eucerin's signature antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals caused by both UV and high-energy visible (HEVIS) light.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals generated by UV and blue light
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps soothe skin and reduce oxidative stress
- HEVIS Defense: Key to Eucerin's claim of blue light protection beyond UV
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
A powerhouse humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Also acts as a skin-identical ingredient, supporting the skin's natural lipid barrier. Non-comedogenic (rated 0) and non-irritating.
- Hydration: Effective from as low as 3%, with increased benefits at higher concentrations
- Barrier Support: Maintains skin lipids in a healthy liquid-crystal state
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5 – will not clog pores
28 ingredients
Aqua, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glycerin, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Dibutyl Adipate, Alcohol Denat., Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Behenyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract, Cera Microcristallina, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Trisodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Sodium Hydroxide, Copernicia Cerifera Cera, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways apply sunscreen as the last step of skincare before makeup. Can also replace your moisturizer if your skin isn't very dry. Wait 1–2 minutes before applying makeup on top.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean, dry face. Apply your regular toner, serum, and/or moisturizer and let them absorb for 1–2 minutes before applying sunscreen.
Dispense the Right Amount
Squeeze out approximately a nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 teaspoon or two finger-lengths) for the face and neck. This is the amount needed for proper SPF 50+ protection.
Apply Evenly
Dot the cream across your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin, then gently spread in upward motions. Avoid rubbing too vigorously. Don't forget the ears and neck.
Allow to Set
Wait approximately 1–2 minutes for the sunscreen to form its protective film before applying makeup or heading outside.
Reapply Every 2 Hours
Reapply liberally every 2 hours during sun exposure, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. No sunscreen offers 100% protection regardless of SPF.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive or reactive skin that struggles with most sunscreens
- You want high UVA/UVB protection plus blue light defense
- You prefer a fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested formula
- You have atopic or eczema-prone skin
- You want a sunscreen that doubles as a light moisturizer
- You're using retinol, AHAs, or vitamin C and need reliable daily SPF
- You live in a climate with strong UV exposure year-round
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) – formula contains triggers
- You have very oily skin and need a matte finish – consider Eucerin Oil Control version
- You prefer mineral-only (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) sunscreens
- You need a tinted sunscreen for a no-makeup look
- You have deep/dark skin tones and are concerned about white cast
- You strictly avoid denatured alcohol in skincare
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, clinically tested for atopic skin. Licochalcone A and Glycyrrhetinic Acid actively soothe irritation.
Creamy, hydrating texture with Glycerin and emollient ingredients. Can double as a day moisturizer. Won't strip or dehydrate skin.
Works well across different zones. May feel slightly dewy on the T-zone. Some users set it with a light powder for oil control.
Can feel too rich or shiny for very oily skin. Consider the Eucerin Oil Control Gel-Cream SPF 50+ instead for a matte finish.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and non-irritating. However, NOT fungal acne safe. For bacterial acne, generally well-tolerated.
Results timeline
3–6 MONTHSUV & HEVIS Light Protection
SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection begins immediately upon application. Skin feels moisturized, protected, and comfortable. Slight initial dewiness settles within minutes.
100% immediate protectionReduced Redness & Irritation
With consistent daily use, sensitive skin begins to appear calmer. Licochalcone A and Glycyrrhetinic Acid help reduce baseline redness and reactive flare-ups from sun exposure.
70% noticed calmer skinImproved Skin Tone & Texture
Daily high SPF protection prevents new pigmentation and allows existing dark spots to gradually fade. Skin looks more even-toned and less stressed.
65% noticed even skin toneVisible Anti-Aging Benefits
Long-term broad-spectrum protection is the single most effective anti-aging strategy. Fine lines appear less pronounced, skin retains elasticity, and photoaging is significantly slowed.
80% noticed younger-looking skinRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Very high SPF 50+ with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection
- Added HEVIS (blue light) defense via Licochalcone A
- DNA repair support with Glycyrrhetinic Acid
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive/atopic skin
- Next-generation photostable UV filters (Tinosorb S, DHHB)
- Moisturizing enough to double as a day cream
- Trusted European dermo-cosmetic brand
- No white cast issues on light-to-medium skin tones
Criticized
- Can feel initially greasy before settling
- Slight white cast on darker skin tones
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Contains Alcohol Denat. – may dry out very dry skin over time
- Small 50ml tube doesn't last long with daily face + neck use
- May pill under certain foundations if not fully absorbed
- Not matte enough for very oily skin types
- EU-only filters mean it's not available in the US market
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar European chemical UV filter system at a lower price point. Also fragrance-free and marketed for sensitive skin. Lacks the Licochalcone A antioxidant and DNA repair technology that Eucerin offers.
Same parent company (Beiersdorf) with similar UV filter technology. More basic formula without the specialized Licochalcone A or Glycyrrhetinic Acid actives. Good basic protection at a fraction of the price.
UK-based dermatologist-created sunscreen with excellent UVA protection. Very affordable but heavier texture. Lacks the sophisticated soothing actives and HEVIS protection of Eucerin.
Another respected European dermo-cosmetic brand with strong UVA/UVB protection. Uses Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M for broad coverage. Similar price and quality tier but different soothing actives.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid temperatures above 25°C (77°F). Do not leave in a hot car.
Squeeze tube with screw cap. Opaque packaging protects photosensitive UV filters from degradation.
Yes, 50 ml is under the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis sunscreen uses chemical (organic) UV filters including DHHB, Tinosorb S, and Ensulizole. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. While these newer-generation filters have good safety profiles with low skin penetration, some healthcare providers recommend mineral (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) sunscreens during pregnancy as a precaution. Always consult your OB-GYN or midwife before using any new skincare product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this sunscreen is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several potential malassezia triggers including Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Cetearyl Alcohol, and C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate. These are fatty acid esters and fatty alcohols that may feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you have confirmed fungal acne, look for a sunscreen specifically formulated without these trigger ingredients.
Yes, absolutely. This sunscreen is an excellent companion to active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). Apply your actives first (serums, treatments), allow them to absorb, then apply this sunscreen as the final skincare step. The broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection is especially important when using photosensitizing actives like retinol and AHAs, as they increase your skin's vulnerability to UV damage.
This sunscreen is best suited for sensitive, dry, and normal skin types. It was specifically developed and clinically tested for sensitive and atopic (eczema-prone) skin. The creamy, hydrating texture makes it ideal for dry skin, and it can double as a moisturizer. While it works for combination skin, those with very oily skin may prefer the Eucerin Oil Control Gel-Cream SPF 50+ for a more mattifying finish.
Sun protection is immediate upon application. Within 1–2 weeks of daily use, most users notice calmer, less reactive skin thanks to the Licochalcone A and Glycyrrhetinic Acid. After 4–8 weeks, skin tone begins to even out as daily protection prevents new pigmentation. The most significant anti-aging benefits appear after 3–6 months of consistent daily use, as you prevent cumulative UV damage that accelerates skin aging.
Sunscreen is always the last step of your skincare routine and the first step before makeup. The recommended order is: Cleanser, Toner (optional), Serum/Treatment, Moisturizer (optional – this sunscreen can replace it for some), then Sunscreen. Wait 1–2 minutes between moisturizer and sunscreen, and another 1–2 minutes before applying makeup to allow the protective film to form properly.
This sunscreen has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for the vast majority of people. While it does contain Cetearyl Alcohol (comedogenic rating 2), the overall formulation is designed to be non-comedogenic. However, if you have extremely acne-prone or fungal-acne-prone skin, patch test first. The Eucerin Oil Control version is specifically marketed as non-comedogenic for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal UV protection efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C (77°F) and away from direct sunlight. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the UV filters from light degradation. If the product changes in color, texture, or smell, discard it regardless of the PAO timeframe.
Verdict: Eucerin Sun Face Sensitive Protect Cream SPF 50+ is a reliable, dermatologist-tested daily facial sunscreen that excels at protecting sensitive and dry skin. Its Advanced Spectral Technology with next-generation UV filters (DHHB, Tinosorb S) delivers photostable, broad-spectrum protection that meets Europe's strict UVA standards. The added Licochalcone A for blue light defense and Glycyrrhetinic Acid for DNA repair support set it apart from basic sunscreens. While it's not ideal for oily skin or fungal acne sufferers, it's an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive, dry, or atopic skin seeking high-quality European sun protection. A solid daily driver from a trusted pharmacy brand.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|









