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bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Defense SPF30
bareMinerals

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Defense SPF30

SPF 30Efficacy90/100IrritancyHigh·2 UV filters
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Works for

4 of 4 advertised claims delivered

Sun protection
SPF 30 · 2 UV filters
Broad spectrum
SPF 30Broad spectrumMineral filters

This product offers a good level of protection against both UVB and UVA rays.

It is a mineral sunscreen. In other words, it contains non-organic UV filters. It will probably not sting your eyes but might leave a white cast.

This product can be considered "reef safe" because it does not contain the UV filters (oxybenzone and octinoxate) that can be harmful to coral reefs when present in the water in high concentrations.

UV spectrum
UVB290–320 nmUVA II320–340 nmUVA I340–400 nm
Titanium Dioxide
Zinc Oxide
FilterCoverageWhat it doesEst. amount
Titanium Dioxide Mineral UVBUVA2 Photo-stable Works as a UV filter when used in high concentrations. It is photostable and is effective mostly against the UVB light, with some protection in the UVA range. In small concentrations, used for its ability to improve the color of cosmetic products. Is usually well tolerated by the skin3.28%
Zinc Oxide Mineral UVBUVA Photo-stable A broad spectrum sunblock (protects from both UVA and UVB rays). Is suitable for most sensitive skins. In small concentrations, can be used as a colorant12.48%
Reef-safe
No oxybenzone or octinoxate — the two filters banned in Hawaii, Florida Keys and Aruba.
Anti-aging
2 ingredients credited for this claim
Strong support
What the product description says
“Formulated with SPF30 to defend against the damage and premature ageing caused by UV rays, the formula also utilises Sugar Molecules to help block pollution particles, whilst Cacao Extract protects against the Blue Light emitted by electronic screens.”
Source: Lookfantastic

This product can help prevent early signs of skin aging because it offers a good level of broad spectrum sun protection. Sun damage is the main cause of premature skin aging, and protecting your skin from the sun is the best anti-aging strategy.

Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~0.45–0.65%
TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.3–0.55%
Evens skin tone
1 ingredient credited for this claim
Strong support
What the product description says
“The mineral-based sunscreen smooths quickly into skin to provide instant and lasting hydration, whilst helping to brighten and balance the skin tone.”
Source: Lookfantastic

This product offers broad spectrum sun protection. It means that it can prevent hyperpigmentation and help keep the skin tone even (sun damage is the main factor causing age spots, darkening of post-acne marks and other discolorations).

Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~0.45–0.65%
Moisturizing
25 ingredients credited for this claim
Strong support
What the product description says
“The mineral-based sunscreen smooths quickly into skin to provide instant and lasting hydration, whilst helping to brighten and balance the skin tone.”
Source: Lookfantastic

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: glycerin, lactobacillus ferment.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: dimethicone, phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: ceramide np

Undaria pinnatifida extractKey activeEffect: HighA seaweed extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have an anti-oxidant effect~0.65–1%
Sodium pcaKey active· HumectantEffect: HighNaturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer~0.45–0.65%
Ceramide npHero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin~0.55–0.85%
DimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish~5.2–6.4%
GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~2.4–2.9%
Lactobacillus fermentKey active· HumectantEffect: HighA fermentation product created by bacteria Lactobacillus. The fermented product has anti-bacterial properties and might be helpful in calming down inflammation, but studies are lacking. Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Can be used as a preservative~0.55–0.8%
Manganese pcaKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Often used as a part of an ingredient complex Physiogenyl together with Sodium PCA, Magnesium PCA and Zinc PCA. The manufacturer claims that it does more than attracting water, but there is no evidence or studies supporting this claim~0.5–0.75%
Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamateKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA mix of amino acids and plant-based lipids. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss over time~0.5–0.75%
Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.45–0.65%
Moringa oleifera seed extractKey activeEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effect~0.55–0.85%
Cetyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together~0.5–0.75%
Aminopropyl dimethiconeKey activeEffect: MediumA type of silicone. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~0.45–0.65%
Coco-caprylate/caprateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture~0.45–0.7%
Polysilicone-11Effect: LowA silicone that forms a light film on the skin surface helping to bind water and temporarily absorb oils creating a matt and powdery feel~0.45–0.7%
Polyquaternium-51Effect: LowAn emollient that helps create a nice silky finish on the skin~0.45–0.7%
SuccinoglycanEffect: Low~0.45–0.65%
Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~0.45–0.7%
Peg-32· HumectantEffect: LowHelps dissolve other ingredients and attract water to the upper layer of the skin~1.9–2.3%
Peg-6· HumectantEffect: LowHelps to dissolve other ingredients and attract water to the upper layer of the skin~1.7–2%
Isohexadecane· EmollientEffect: LowImproves the texture of the product and helps soften the skin. Helps oil and water mix together and can be used as a cleansing agent~0.55–0.8%
Bupleurum falcatum root extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin, but it is not well studied. It can be irritating~0.75–1.15%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.45–0.7%
AllantoinUnder-dosedEffect: HighHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.35–0.6%
Stearic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~0.5–0.75%
TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.3–0.55%
Anti-oxidation
Not advertised by the brand · 8 ingredients credited for this claim
Moderate support

This product contains antioxidants (camellia japonica flower extract) that might be able to help neutralize free radicals in skin to lessen the damage it gets from the UV light (sun). There is not enough evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin though.

Camellia japonica flower extractKey activeEffect: MediumA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin~1.1–1.4%
Undaria pinnatifida extractEffect: LowA seaweed extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have an anti-oxidant effect~0.65–1%
Lactobacillus fermentEffect: LowA fermentation product created by bacteria Lactobacillus. The fermented product has anti-bacterial properties and might be helpful in calming down inflammation, but studies are lacking. Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Can be used as a preservative~0.55–0.8%
Moringa oleifera seed extractEffect: LowHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effect~0.55–0.85%
Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamateEffect: LowA mix of amino acids and plant-based lipids. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss over time~0.5–0.75%
TocopherolUnder-dosedEffect: HighPure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.3–0.55%
Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~0.45–0.65%
BisabololEffect: Low, below effective doseAn active component of chamomile plant that historically has been used to calm down irritated skin. A recent study shows that bisabolol indeed can have some anti-inflammatory effect on skin, even though conclusive data is lacking. Bisabolol has a sweet floral scent and can be added to products for its aromatic properties~0.35–0.6%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
4 strong irritants: Parfum, Limonene + 2 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 25 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Camellia japonica flower extractA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skinHigh~1.1–1.4%est.
Bupleurum falcatum root extractA plant extract that might help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin, but it is not well studied. It can be irritatingHigh~0.75–1.15%est.
Decyl glucosideHelps oil and water mix together. Can be irritatingHigh~0.5–0.8%est.
AlcoholCan be drying and contribute to skin irritation. Used in formulars to dissolve other ingredients, create a thinner product consistency or for its antibacterial propertiesHigh~0.25–0.5%est.
ParfumAn aromatic blend of unspecified and possibly irritating ingredientsHigh~0.2–0.4%est.
LimoneneA common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heatHigh~0.2–0.35%est.
LinaloolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.25%est.
Hexyl cinnamalA fragrance with jasmine smell. A likely irritantHigh~0.1–0.25%est.
Polyglyceryl-4 laurate/succinateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~1.5–1.9%est.
Polysorbate 60Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~1.3–1.6%est.
Moringa oleifera seed extractHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effectMedium~0.55–0.85%est.
Succinoglycan—Medium~0.45–0.65%est.
Lauryl betaineHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.5–0.8%est.
Isostearyl isostearateHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product texture. It can be comedogenicMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Ascorbyl glucosideA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in productsMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Potassium cetyl phosphateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Hexylene glycolHelps create a more spreadable product textureMedium~0.4–0.65%est.
Sorbitan oleateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Vp/eicosene copolymerUsed to improve the product adherence to the skin, for example, to pro-long the protective effect of sunscreens. Can be irritating to very sensitive skinMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
T-butyl alcoholUsed to dissolve other ingredients and to improve smell of products. It could be irritatingMedium~0.4–0.6%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Sodium citrateHelps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve productsMedium~0.35–0.6%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
Comedogenic
3 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
3 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Theobroma cacao seed extract—3/5~0.55–0.85%est.
Isostearyl isostearateHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product texture. It can be comedogenic3/5~0.45–0.7%est.
Sorbitan oleateHelps oil and water mix together2/5~0.45–0.7%est.
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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Zinc oxide12.48%
UV filterKey active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Sun protection

A broad spectrum sunblock (protects from both UVA and UVB rays). Is suitable for most sensitive skins. In small concentrations, can be used as a colorant

More about Zinc oxide
Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
C9-12 alkane~8.6–10.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps dissolve other ingredients in a formulation

More about C9-12 alkane
Dimethicone~5.2–6.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone
Propanediol~3.1–3.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Acts as a solvent for other ingredients. Speeds up the absorption of other ingredients into the skin

More about Propanediol
Glycerin~2.4–2.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin
Peg-32~1.9–2.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps dissolve other ingredients and attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Peg-32
Peg-6~1.7–2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps to dissolve other ingredients and attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Peg-6
Polyglyceryl-4 laurate/succinate~1.5–1.9%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polyglyceryl-4 laurate/succinate
Polysorbate 60~1.3–1.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 60
Camellia japonica flower extract~1.1–1.4%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Camellia japonica flower extract
Bupleurum falcatum root extract~0.75–1.15%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Moisturizing

A plant extract that might help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin, but it is not well studied. It can be irritating

More about Bupleurum falcatum root extract
Undaria pinnatifida extract~0.65–1%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A seaweed extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have an anti-oxidant effect

More about Undaria pinnatifida extract
Hypericum erectum flower/leaf/stem extract~0.6–0.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hypericum erectum flower/leaf/stem extract
Moringa oleifera seed extract~0.55–0.85%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effect

More about Moringa oleifera seed extract
Theobroma cacao seed extract~0.55–0.85%
Comedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
More about Theobroma cacao seed extract
Lactobacillus ferment~0.55–0.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidationReduces irritation

A fermentation product created by bacteria Lactobacillus. The fermented product has anti-bacterial properties and might be helpful in calming down inflammation, but studies are lacking. Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Can be used as a preservative

More about Lactobacillus ferment
Ceramide np~0.55–0.85%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryReduces irritation

A type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin

More about Ceramide np
Manganese pca~0.5–0.75%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Often used as a part of an ingredient complex Physiogenyl together with Sodium PCA, Magnesium PCA and Zinc PCA. The manufacturer claims that it does more than attracting water, but there is no evidence or studies supporting this claim

More about Manganese pca
Butylene glycol~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol
Succinoglycan~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing
More about Succinoglycan
Biosaccharide gum-4~0.4–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps improve the product texture

More about Biosaccharide gum-4
Bisabolol~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Reduces irritationAnti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidation

An active component of chamomile plant that historically has been used to calm down irritated skin. A recent study shows that bisabolol indeed can have some anti-inflammatory effect on skin, even though conclusive data is lacking. Bisabolol has a sweet floral scent and can be added to products for its aromatic properties

More about Bisabolol
Allantoin~0.35–0.6%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryMoisturizingReduces irritationAnti-blemishReduces rednessExfoliation

Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated

More about Allantoin
Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate~0.5–0.75%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A mix of amino acids and plant-based lipids. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss over time

More about Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate
Aminopropyl dimethicone~0.45–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A type of silicone. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Aminopropyl dimethicone
Lauryl betaine~0.5–0.8%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Lauryl betaine
Cetyl stearate~0.5–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Cetyl stearate
Isostearyl isostearate~0.45–0.7%
Comedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
3/5

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product texture. It can be comedogenic

More about Isostearyl isostearate
Aluminum hydroxide~0.5–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Is used to add opaque (non-transparent) appearance to formulations. Can be used to coat other ingredients for even dispersion. This is a different ingredient compared to the ones used in antipersperants (aluminium chloride and aluminium chlorohydrate)

More about Aluminum hydroxide
Decyl isostearate~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Decyl isostearate
Polyquaternium-51~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps create a nice silky finish on the skin

More about Polyquaternium-51
Sodium hyaluronate~0.45–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate
Ascorbyl glucoside~0.45–0.65%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

A vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products

More about Ascorbyl glucoside
Mica~0.5–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Creates an illusion of smoother and more radiant skin tone. Adds shimmer to the skin by reflecting light

More about Mica
Cellulose gum~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to create thicker product consistency and stabilize emulsions

More about Cellulose gum
Silica~0.55–0.85%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to absorb oil and can temporarily mattify skin

More about Silica
Sodium pca~0.45–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Naturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer

More about Sodium pca
Coco-caprylate/caprate~0.45–0.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture

More about Coco-caprylate/caprate
Decyl glucoside~0.5–0.8%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together. Can be irritating

More about Decyl glucoside
Potassium cetyl phosphate~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Potassium cetyl phosphate
Cetyl alcohol~0.5–0.75%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together

More about Cetyl alcohol
Isohexadecane~0.55–0.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Improves the texture of the product and helps soften the skin. Helps oil and water mix together and can be used as a cleansing agent

More about Isohexadecane
Caprylyl glycol~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Hexylene glycol~0.4–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps create a more spreadable product texture

More about Hexylene glycol
Sorbitan oleate~0.45–0.7%
Comedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sorbitan oleate
1,2-hexanediol~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol
Sorbitan sesquiisostearate~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Sorbitan sesquiisostearate
Sodium methyl stearoyl taurate~0.65–1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Sodium methyl stearoyl taurate
Vp/eicosene copolymer~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Sun protection

Used to improve the product adherence to the skin, for example, to pro-long the protective effect of sunscreens. Can be irritating to very sensitive skin

More about Vp/eicosene copolymer
Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6
T-butyl alcohol~0.4–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used to dissolve other ingredients and to improve smell of products. It could be irritating

More about T-butyl alcohol
Polysorbate 80~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polysorbate 80
Disodium edta~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Dimethylacrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate crosspolymer~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Dimethylacrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate crosspolymer
Polysilicone-11~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MattifyingMoisturizing

A silicone that forms a light film on the skin surface helping to bind water and temporarily absorb oils creating a matt and powdery feel

More about Polysilicone-11
Disodium phosphate~0.4–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps adjust the product pH and stabilize the formulation

More about Disodium phosphate
Isostearic acid~0.5–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a nice product texture

More about Isostearic acid
Sodium citrate~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve products

More about Sodium citrate
Hydrogen dimethicone~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps the function of sunscreen and pigment ingredients in the formulation

More about Hydrogen dimethicone
Sodium acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Sodium acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer
Stearic acid~0.5–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Citric acid~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Can work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pH

More about Citric acid
Triethoxycaprylylsilane~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A type of silicone that helps oil and water mix well together. Helps to disperse other ingredients, e.g. pigments, evenly in a formulation

More about Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Tocopherol~0.3–0.55%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-inflammatoryAnti-agingMoisturizing

Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself

More about Tocopherol
Tin oxide~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A colorant that can add a pearl-like appearance to the formulation

More about Tin oxide
Alcohol~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Antibacterial

Can be drying and contribute to skin irritation. Used in formulars to dissolve other ingredients, create a thinner product consistency or for its antibacterial properties

More about Alcohol
Parfum~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

An aromatic blend of unspecified and possibly irritating ingredients

More about Parfum
Limonene~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heat

More about Limonene
Linalool~0.15–0.25%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Linalool
Hexyl cinnamal~0.1–0.25%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance with jasmine smell. A likely irritant

More about Hexyl cinnamal
Sodium benzoate~0.15–0.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative

More about Sodium benzoate
Phenoxyethanol~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Titanium dioxide3.28%
UV filterKey active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Sun protection

Works as a UV filter when used in high concentrations. It is photostable and is effective mostly against the UVB light, with some protection in the UVA range. In small concentrations, used for its ability to improve the color of cosmetic products. Is usually well tolerated by the skin

More about Titanium dioxide
Iron oxides~0.1–0.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Sun protection

An umbrella term for the following three colorants: CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499. They might be able to offer some protection against visible light, but the degree of the protection is not clear

More about Iron oxides
Ingredient list view

Zinc oxide, Water, C9-12 alkane, Dimethicone, Propanediol, Glycerin, Peg-32, Peg-6, Polyglyceryl-4 laurate/succinate, Polysorbate 60, Camellia japonica flower extract, Bupleurum falcatum root extract, Undaria pinnatifida extract, Hypericum erectum flower/leaf/stem extract, Moringa oleifera seed extract, Theobroma cacao seed extract, Lactobacillus ferment, Ceramide np, Manganese pca, Butylene glycol, Succinoglycan, Biosaccharide gum-4, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate, Aminopropyl dimethicone, Lauryl betaine, Cetyl stearate, Isostearyl isostearate, Aluminum hydroxide, Decyl isostearate, Polyquaternium-51, Sodium hyaluronate, Ascorbyl glucoside, Mica, Cellulose gum, Silica, Sodium pca, Coco-caprylate/caprate, Decyl glucoside, Potassium cetyl phosphate, Cetyl alcohol, Isohexadecane, Caprylyl glycol, Hexylene glycol, Sorbitan oleate, 1,2-hexanediol, Sorbitan sesquiisostearate, Sodium methyl stearoyl taurate, Vp/eicosene copolymer, Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6, T-butyl alcohol, Polysorbate 80, Disodium edta, Dimethylacrylamide/sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate crosspolymer, Polysilicone-11, Disodium phosphate, Isostearic acid, Sodium citrate, Hydrogen dimethicone, Sodium acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, Stearic acid, Citric acid, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Tocopherol, Tin oxide, Alcohol, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Hexyl cinnamal, Sodium benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Titanium dioxide, Iron oxides

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Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
bareMineralsComplexion Rescue Defense SPF30YOUR PRODUCTISNTREESensitive balancing spf 50CeraVeHydrating Mineral Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 with Zinc Oxide
Match—53%52%
Price$39.00—$13.97−$25.03
Shared key ingredients—7 of 176 of 17
Key difference—PhytosphingosineNiacinamide
Irritancy High Low Low
SPFSPF 30SPF 50SPF 30
Drying alcohol Contains drying alcohol ——
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Product summary

We believe that "bareMinerals - Complexion Rescue Defense SPF30" can provide reliable sun protection based on the ingredients listed. It can protect from both UVA and UVB rays. This is great news because not all sunscreens with SPF ratings give UVA protection. (UVA rays do not cause sunburn, but still damage our skin and lead to early aging).

Its formula is also hydrating, so you might not need an additional moistruizer during the day. This product prevents early signs of aging by protecting against sun damage (all broad spectrum sunscreens do that).

Sunscreen filters

It is a mineral sunscreen. It uses titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for sun protection. Both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide almost never irritate even the most sensitive skin and eyes, but can leave a white cast.

Irritation risk

This sunscreen contains a bunch of common irritants, including ingredients that do not provide any known benefit for the skin. It might not be the best choice if your skin is sensitive. We assess the overall irritancy of this product to be high. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here

You can see the detailed formula review with the breakdown of all actives in the product and the full ingredient list with estimated concentrations in the tables below.

About the brand

According to Cruelty-Free Kitty "bareMinerals" is cruelty free, but its parent company is not.

Price

The product retails for 82.04A$ in Australia, for 25.00$ in the United States and for 35.00£ in the United Kingdom.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 31 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    A review of inorganic UV filters zinc oxide and titanium dioxideonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  2. 2
    Risk assessment of zinc oxide, a cosmetic ingredient used as a UV filter of sunscreensncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    Characterization of the UVA protection provided by avobenzone, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide in broad-spectrum sunscreen productsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    Ultraviolet Protection Properties of Commercial Sunscreens and Sunscreens Containing Zno Nanorodsiopscience.iop.org
  5. 5
    ZnO nanoparticles and organic chemical UV-filters are equally well tolerated by human immune cellsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    Dimethicone as a protective ingredient in topical medicationsjaad.org
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Defense SPF30
bareMineralsComplexion Rescue Defense SPF30
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