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Dermalogica Daily Skin Health Invisible Physical Defense SPF30
Dermalogica

Dermalogica Daily Skin Health Invisible Physical Defense SPF30

SPF 30Efficacy90/100IrritancyHigh·2 UV filters·100% recommend (1 review)
See all ingredients

Works for

Sun protection
SPF 30 · 2 UV filters
Broad spectrum
SPF 30Broad spectrumMineral + chemical filtersTinted

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

This sunscreen uses organic (so-called "chemical") sunscreen filters. Organic, or "chemical" filters usually provide reliable sun protection and rarely leave a white cast. Sunscreens with organic filters can sting eyes.

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
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Zinc Oxide
FilterCoverageWhat it doesEst. amount
Butyloctyl SalicylateUVBA synthetic ester of salicylic acid that is used to help disperse pigments and boost effectiveness of sunscreen ingredients. It is able to absorb UV light (working as an organic, or chemical filter), but is not approved as a sunscreen ingredient on its own~2.6–3.2%
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 colorant~12–15%
~ marks concentrations estimated from label position and typical use levels
Reef-safe
No oxybenzone or octinoxate — the two filters banned in Hawaii, Florida Keys and Aruba.
Anti-aging
Not advertised by the brand · Camellia sinensis leaf extract
Works well

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.

Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: LowCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.65–1%
Evens skin tone
Not advertised by the brand · Trametes versicolor extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract
Works well

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).

Trametes versicolor extractEffect: LowA mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare products~0.65–1%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: LowCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.65–1%
Moisturizing
Side benefit the brand mentions · Caprylic/capric triglyceride, C12-15 alkyl benzoate + 13 more
Works
What the product description says
“A bio-active Mushroom Complex helps soothe skin, and reduce UV-induced redness and dryness.”
Source: Allbeauty

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, sodium hyaluronate.

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: caprylic/capric triglyceride, dimethicone.

Caprylic/capric triglycerideKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~5.9–7.2%
C12-15 alkyl benzoateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumEnhances the product texture and makes it more spreadable. Helps reduce water loss from the outer layer of skin. Extands the shelf life by preventing bacteria growth~3.9–4.7%
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~3.1–3.8%
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~2.1–2.5%
Peg-10 dimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that works to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce its water loss~1–1.3%
Argania spinosa kernel oilKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Might have some weak anti-oxidant properties~0.75–1.15%
Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.65–0.95%
Dimethicone crosspolymerKey activeEffect: MediumUsed to create a thicker product texture. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and might be able to prevent moisture loss from its surface~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~2.3–2.9%
Trametes versicolor extract· HumectantEffect: LowA mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare products~0.65–1%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: LowCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.65–1%
Pentylene glycol· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture~0.55–0.8%
Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethiconeEffect: LowA type of silicone that helps to soften upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~0.45–0.7%
Propylene carbonateEffect: LowIs used to dissolve other ingredients and create nice product texture~0.45–0.7%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.4–0.6%
Anti-oxidation
Not advertised by the brand · Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Argania spinosa kernel oil + 2 more
May help

This product contains antioxidants (camellia sinensis leaf 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 sinensis leaf extractKey activeEffect: MediumCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.65–1%
Argania spinosa kernel oilEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Might have some weak anti-oxidant properties~0.75–1.15%
Tocopheryl acetateEffect: Low, below effective doseA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.~0.55–0.85%
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~0.25–0.5%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
4 strong irritants: Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil, Lavandula hybrida oil + 2 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 15 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Eucalyptus globulus leaf oilAn essential oil that can be very irritating. Has some anti-bacterial propertiesHigh~0.55–0.8%est.
Lavandula hybrida oilPlant extract that can be irritating and is a known allergenHigh~0.25–0.5%est.
LinaloolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.1–0.15%est.
LimoneneA common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heatHigh~0.05–0.1%est.
Caprylic/capric triglycerideA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerinMedium~5.9–7.2%est.
Butyloctyl salicylateA synthetic ester of salicylic acid that is used to help disperse pigments and boost effectiveness of sunscreen ingredients. It is able to absorb UV light (working as an organic, or chemical filter), but is not approved as a sunscreen ingredient on its ownMedium~2.6–3.2%est.
Polyhydroxystearic acidUsed to create a thicker product consistency and stabilize the formulationMedium~1.2–1.5%est.
Argania spinosa kernel oilAn emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Might have some weak anti-oxidant propertiesMedium~0.75–1.15%est.
Trametes versicolor extractA mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare productsMedium~0.65–1%est.
Tocopheryl acetateA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.Medium~0.55–0.85%est.
Pentylene glycolUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product textureMedium~0.55–0.8%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~0.45–0.65%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.4–0.6%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Potassium sorbateA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.3%est.
Comedogenic
Clean of flagged comedogenic ingredients
None flagged

User reviews

Would you recommend?
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1 of 1 community members would buy it again.

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What reviewers noticed
Marker shows the average response

Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Zinc oxide~12–15%
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
Caprylic/capric triglyceride~5.9–7.2%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin

More about Caprylic/capric triglyceride
C12-15 alkyl benzoate~3.9–4.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Enhances the product texture and makes it more spreadable. Helps reduce water loss from the outer layer of skin. Extands the shelf life by preventing bacteria growth

More about C12-15 alkyl benzoate
Dimethicone~3.1–3.8%
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
Butyloctyl salicylate~2.6–3.2%
UV filterKey activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Sun protection

A synthetic ester of salicylic acid that is used to help disperse pigments and boost effectiveness of sunscreen ingredients. It is able to absorb UV light (working as an organic, or chemical filter), but is not approved as a sunscreen ingredient on its own

More about Butyloctyl salicylate
Butylene glycol~2.3–2.9%
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
Glycerin~2.1–2.5%
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
Silica~1.8–2.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to absorb oil and can temporarily mattify skin

More about Silica
Polyhydroxystearic acid~1.2–1.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency and stabilize the formulation

More about Polyhydroxystearic acid
Peg-10 dimethicone~1–1.3%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A silicone that works to soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce its water loss

More about Peg-10 dimethicone
Argania spinosa kernel oil~0.75–1.15%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

An emollient that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Might have some weak anti-oxidant properties

More about Argania spinosa kernel oil
Cordyceps sinensis extract~0.7–1.05%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Cordyceps sinensis extract
Trametes versicolor extract~0.65–1%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneMoisturizing

A mushroom extract that might have some skin-lightening and moisturizing properties, but solid research is lacking. It is unlikely to be effective in the concentration used in skincare products

More about Trametes versicolor extract
Sodium hyaluronate~0.65–0.95%
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
Camellia sinensis leaf extract~0.65–1%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
AntibacterialAnti-oxidationAnti-agingMoisturizingEvens skin toneAnti-blemish

Can contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation

More about Camellia sinensis leaf extract
Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil~0.55–0.8%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Antibacterial

An essential oil that can be very irritating. Has some anti-bacterial properties

More about Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil
Lavandula spica flower oil~0.55–0.85%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Lavandula spica flower oil
Tocopheryl acetate~0.55–0.85%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.

More about Tocopheryl acetate
Sodium chloride~0.55–0.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to stabilize mixtures of oil and water, and create thicker, gel-like product textures

More about Sodium chloride
Stearalkonium hectorite~0.5–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to create an even product consistency

More about Stearalkonium hectorite
Pentylene glycol~0.55–0.8%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture

More about Pentylene glycol
Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A type of silicone that helps to soften upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone
Propanediol~0.5–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

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

More about Propanediol
Dimethicone crosspolymer~0.45–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a thicker product texture. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and might be able to prevent moisture loss from its surface

More about Dimethicone crosspolymer
Sodium citrate~0.45–0.65%
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
Propylene carbonate~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Is used to dissolve other ingredients and create nice product texture

More about Propylene carbonate
Xanthan gum~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Caprylyl glycol~0.4–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Bisabolol~0.25–0.5%
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
Lavandula hybrida oil~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Plant extract that can be irritating and is a known allergen

More about Lavandula hybrida oil
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Sodium hydroxide~0.2–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Potassium sorbate~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Potassium sorbate
Sodium benzoate~0.15–0.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative

More about Sodium benzoate
Linalool~0.1–0.15%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Linalool
Limonene~0.05–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

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

More about Limonene
Ingredient list view

Water, Zinc oxide, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, Dimethicone, Butyloctyl salicylate, Butylene glycol, Glycerin, Silica, Polyhydroxystearic acid, Peg-10 dimethicone, Argania spinosa kernel oil, Cordyceps sinensis extract, Trametes versicolor extract, Sodium hyaluronate, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil, Lavandula spica flower oil, Tocopheryl acetate, Sodium chloride, Stearalkonium hectorite, Pentylene glycol, Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone, Propanediol, Dimethicone crosspolymer, Sodium citrate, Propylene carbonate, Xanthan gum, Caprylyl glycol, Bisabolol, Lavandula hybrida oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium hydroxide, Potassium sorbate, Sodium benzoate, Linalool, Limonene

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🇬🇧 Allbeauty (UK)50 ml
≈ $101.93
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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
DermalogicaDaily Skin Health Invisible Physical Defense SPF30YOUR PRODUCTTulaMineral Sunscreen Fluid Broad Spectrum SPF 30TatchaThe Silk Sunscreen SPF 50 Weightless Mineral SunscreenDr Dennis GrossDark Spot Sun Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen
Match—45%45%45%
Price——$64.00$42.00
Shared key ingredients—5 of 106 of 105 of 10
Key difference—Lactic AcidNiacinamideFerulic Acid
Irritancy High Medium Low Low
SPFSPF 30SPF 30SPF 50SPF 50
Drying alcohol————
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  • matches yours
  • differs
  • cheaper

More alternatives: Tatcha US DEV The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF45 with 8 Anti-Oxidants

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Product summary

Based on the ingredients included, we believe that "Dermalogica - Daily Skin Health Invisible Physical Defense SPF30" can offer reliable sun protection. We love that it can protect from both UVA and UVB rays (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).

Because it includes good moisturizing ingredients, it can also work as a hydrating day cream. Like all broad-spectrum sunscreens, this product has an anti-aging benefit.

Sunscreen filters

This sunscreen uses a mixture of both mineral and organic (so-called "chemical") UV filters. Here are the organic filters this product uses: butyloctyl salicylate. As for the mineral filters, this sunscreen uses zinc oxide.

Irritation risk

We assess the overall irritancy of this sunscreen 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 "Dermalogica" is cruelty free, but its parent company is not.

Price

The product retails for 76.15£ 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 14 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
Dermalogica Daily Skin Health Invisible Physical Defense SPF30
DermalogicaDaily Skin Health Invisible Physical Defense SPF30
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Find on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.