It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40

It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40

SPF 40Efficacy60/100IrritancyMedium·1 UV filter·0% recommend (1 review)

Works for

Sun protection
SPF 40 · 1 UV filter · Partial spectrum
Weak protectionLow filter dose
SPF 40Partial spectrumMineral filtersTintedNano filters

This product does not offer good protection against UVA rays.

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
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 skin~0.1–0.2%
~ 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
Vitis vinifera seed extract, Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 + 4 more
May help
What the product description says
“The formulas brimming with skin-nourishing ingredients too theres oil-absorbing charcoal, tea tree extract, colloidal clay and Moroccan lava clay, plus an age-defying serum.”
Source: Cultbeauty

This product contains palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, vitis vinifera seed extract. There is some human evidence that these ingredients help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin elasticity and firmness, though it is smaller or less consistent than the evidence for the best anti-aging ingredients. The biggest anti-aging effect in this product comes from sun protection. Sun damage is the main factor causing early signs of skin aging. We, however, do not recommend using this product as a sunscreen because the protection it offers is not strong enough).

Vitis vinifera seed extractKey activeEffect: MediumA plant extract that contains resveratrol and other anti-oxidant compounds that can help neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation in skin and even out its tone. Can be also used to stabilize the product formulation~0.3–0.55%
Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7Key activeEffect: MediumA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.4%
Palmitoyl tripeptide-1Key activeEffect: MediumA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.4%
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~0.3–0.55%
ChrysinEffect: LowMight be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skin~0.15–0.3%
NiacinamideUnder-dosedIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~0.3–0.55%
Anti-oxidation
Side benefit · Vitis vinifera seed extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract + 6 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (vitis vinifera seed extract) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

The following ingredients - camellia sinensis leaf extract, chrysin also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

Vitis vinifera seed extractKey activeEffect: HighA plant extract that contains resveratrol and other anti-oxidant compounds that can help neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation in skin and even out its tone. Can be also used to stabilize the product formulation~0.3–0.55%
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~0.3–0.55%
ChrysinKey activeEffect: MediumMight be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skin~0.15–0.3%
Salix alba bark extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. It contains a compound salicin that can theoretically be converted into salicylic acid that, in turn, helps reduce inflammation in skin, but the evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking and the extract is usually not used in a concentration that would enable an exfoliating effect~0.25–0.45%
Punica granatum fruit juiceEffect: LowA fruit juice. Might have some anti-oxidant properties but is unlikely to have any benefit when used in skincare~0.25–0.5%
Olea europaea leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties but evidence for effectiveness in skin is missing~0.25–0.45%
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.~0.3–0.5%
Avena sativa kernel extractEffect: Low, below effective doseAn effective moisturizing and skin barrier repair ingredient. Helps calm down inflammation and has some anti-oxidant properties~0.3–0.55%
Moisturizing
Side benefit the brand mentions · Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl tripeptide-1 + 20 more
Works well
What the product description says
“As well as acting as a sunscreen with SPF40, it helps to hydrate and brighten your skin, correcting colour and concealing dark spots and the signs of ageing as well as minimising the look of pores for a smooth matte finish.”
Source: Sephora Hong Kong

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, hydrolyzed collagen.

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: bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2, dimethicone.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, palmitoyl tripeptide-1

Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7Hero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.4%
Palmitoyl tripeptide-1Hero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.4%
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~5.7–6.9%
Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~4.5–5.5%
CyclopentasiloxaneKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA silicone that helps improve the product texture and spreadability. Can absorb oil creating a short-term mattifying effect on the skin~2.5–3%
Snail secretion filtrateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighTypically contains hyaluronic acid that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might contain allantoin that is helpful in calming down inflammation. There is no evidence that it can have any further benefits for the skin, especially when used in skincare products~1.1–1.4%
Bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2Key active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss from its surface~0.75–1.1%
CholesterolKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that is naturally found in skin~0.35–0.6%
Persea gratissima fruit extractKey active· EmollientEffect: High~0.3–0.5%
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneKey activeEffect: HighA silicone that improves product texture and helps dissolve other ingredients. Can form a non-greasy film on the skin to prevent moisture loss~0.3–0.55%
Hydrolyzed collagenKey active· Humectant, EmollientEffect: HighA typically plant-derived compound that is supposed mimic human collagen. Cannot penetrate the skin barrier so is not particularly useful in skincare products beyond attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.55%
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~0.3–0.6%
Hydrolyzed silkKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumCan help attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.55%
Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acidKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin. A version of it is naturally present in skin~0.15–0.3%
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~3.2–3.9%
Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethiconeEffect: LowA type of silicone that helps water and oil mix together. Can help to soften upper layer of the skin~1.4–1.7%
Hexyl laurate· EmollientEffect: LowHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product consistency~0.45–0.65%
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~0.3–0.55%
Stearic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~0.6–0.95%
Aloe barbadensis leaf extractEffect: Low, below effective doseTraditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin~0.35–0.6%
Avena sativa kernel extractUnder-dosedAn effective moisturizing and skin barrier repair ingredient. Helps calm down inflammation and has some anti-oxidant properties~0.3–0.55%
NiacinamideUnder-dosedIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~0.3–0.55%
Evens skin tone
Side benefit the brand mentions · Chrysin, Camellia sinensis leaf extract + 2 more
May help
What the product description says
“As well as acting as a sunscreen with SPF40, it helps to hydrate and brighten your skin, correcting colour and concealing dark spots and the signs of ageing as well as minimising the look of pores for a smooth matte finish.”
Source: Sephora Hong Kong

The following ingredient (ingredients) in this product might be helpful, but there is no evidence to confirm that it actually works: chrysin.

The biggest effect for evening out skin tone in this product comes from sun protection. Sun damage is the main factor causing age spots, darkening of post-acne marks and other discolorations. This is why sun protection is the best strategy for maintaining an even skin tone. We, however, do not recommend using this product as a sunscreen because the protection it offers is not strong enough).

ChrysinKey activeEffect: MediumMight be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skin~0.15–0.3%
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~0.3–0.55%
N-hydroxysuccinimideEffect: LowIs claimed to be able to brighten skin tone by removing some blood-related pigmented compounds in skin (hemoglobin and related elements) but solid research is missing. Can be irritating~0.2–0.4%
NiacinamideUnder-dosedIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~0.3–0.55%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
2 strong irritants: Cinnamomum cassia bark extract, Melaleuca alternifolia flower/leaf/stem extract
Medium risk
We flagged 26 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Ethyl hexanediolUsed to dissolve other ingredients. Might be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.5%est.
Curcuma longa root extractA plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritantHigh~0.25–0.5%est.
Salix alba bark extractA plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. It contains a compound salicin that can theoretically be converted into salicylic acid that, in turn, helps reduce inflammation in skin, but the evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking and the extract is usually not used in a concentration that would enable an exfoliating effectHigh~0.25–0.45%est.
Cinnamomum cassia bark extractUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
Melaleuca alternifolia flower/leaf/stem extractA tea tree extract. Can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.5%est.
N-hydroxysuccinimideIs claimed to be able to brighten skin tone by removing some blood-related pigmented compounds in skin (hemoglobin and related elements) but solid research is missing. Can be irritatingHigh~0.2–0.4%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~1.7–2.1%est.
Snail secretion filtrateTypically contains hyaluronic acid that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might contain allantoin that is helpful in calming down inflammation. There is no evidence that it can have any further benefits for the skin, especially when used in skincare productsMedium~1.1–1.4%est.
Polyglyceryl-4 isostearateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Hexyl laurateHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product consistencyMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Triethyl citrateUsed as a fragrance. Rarely causes irritationMedium~0.3–0.5%est.
Potassium sorbateA preservativeMedium~0.25–0.5%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~0.3–0.5%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Sulfur—Medium~0.25–0.5%est.
PerfluorohexaneUsed in products to help dissolve oxygen and enhance oxygen molecule penetration into the skin. There is no evidence for benefits of the oxygen emulsion in topical creams, lotions or serums. There is a study available confirming a positive impact of oxygen therapy for skin wound healing, but it used an oxygen emulsion stored under high pressure using special equipmentMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~0.3–0.5%est.
Hydrolyzed silkCan help attract water to the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
Aloe barbadensis leaf extractTraditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skinMedium~0.35–0.6%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.3–0.5%est.
Olea europaea leaf extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties but evidence for effectiveness in skin is missingMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Steareth-20Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.4–0.6%est.
Punica granatum fruit juiceA fruit juice. Might have some anti-oxidant properties but is unlikely to have any benefit when used in skincareMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Chlorhexidine digluconateA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.3%est.
ChrysinMight be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skinMedium~0.15–0.3%est.
Comedogenic
Clean of flagged comedogenic ingredients
None flagged

User reviews

Would you recommend?
0%·yes

0 of 1 community members would buy it again.

0% would100% wouldn't
  • Ihaveaface· Nov 2022Doesn't recommend

    High coverage, matte finish - the most coverage I've even seen in a cc cream it is more like a foundation. Mousse like texture that was difficult to apply evenly to the face. Would only recommend to people with oily skin since it tends to cling to dry patches and may be a bit drying. It was not the most comfortable cc cream having a quite heavy feeling on the skin. Medium lasting power. Good packaging - tube with pump. Contains skin beneficial ingredients and high spf as well as a bunch of irritating ones, which is manly why I won't repurchase.

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
Dimethicone~5.7–6.9%
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
Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate~4.5–5.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate
Butylene glycol~3.2–3.9%
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
Cyclopentasiloxane~2.5–3%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MattifyingMoisturizing

A silicone that helps improve the product texture and spreadability. Can absorb oil creating a short-term mattifying effect on the skin

More about Cyclopentasiloxane
Dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer~2–2.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to stabilize product formulations and create a nice product texture

More about Dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer
Butyloctyl salicylate~1.7–2.1%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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
Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethicone~1.4–1.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A type of silicone that helps water and oil mix together. Can help to soften upper layer of the skin

More about Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethicone
Snail secretion filtrate~1.1–1.4%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatory

Typically contains hyaluronic acid that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might contain allantoin that is helpful in calming down inflammation. There is no evidence that it can have any further benefits for the skin, especially when used in skincare products

More about Snail secretion filtrate
Sodium chloride~1–1.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

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

More about Sodium chloride
Bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2~0.75–1.1%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss from its surface

More about Bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2
Aluminum hydroxide~0.65–0.95%
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
Stearic acid~0.6–0.95%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Disteardimonium hectorite~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A type of clay that is used to thicken the product consistency

More about Disteardimonium hectorite
Sorbitan isostearate~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sorbitan isostearate
Polyglyceryl-4 isostearate~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polyglyceryl-4 isostearate
Hexyl laurate~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product consistency

More about Hexyl laurate
Triethoxycaprylylsilane~0.3–0.6%
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
Triethyl citrate~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used as a fragrance. Rarely causes irritation

More about Triethyl citrate
Ethyl hexanediol~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used to dissolve other ingredients. Might be irritating

More about Ethyl hexanediol
Sodium benzoate~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative

More about Sodium benzoate
Potassium sorbate~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Potassium sorbate
Polymethylsilsesquioxane~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A silicone that improves product texture and helps dissolve other ingredients. Can form a non-greasy film on the skin to prevent moisture loss

More about Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Tocopheryl acetate~0.3–0.5%
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
Phenoxyethanol~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Disodium edta~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Canadian colloidal clay~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Moroccan lava clay~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-blemish

Helps absorb oil (for the time of application) and creates a thicker product consistency

More about Moroccan lava clay
Avena sativa kernel extract~0.3–0.55%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryReduces irritationMoisturizingReduces rednessAnti-oxidation

An effective moisturizing and skin barrier repair ingredient. Helps calm down inflammation and has some anti-oxidant properties

More about Avena sativa kernel extract
Glycerin~0.3–0.6%
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
Niacinamide~0.3–0.55%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-blemishReduces irritationAnti-inflammatoryReduces rednessAntibacterial

Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production

More about Niacinamide
Curcuma longa root extract~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatory

A plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritant

More about Curcuma longa root extract
Sulfur~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-blemish
More about Sulfur
Cholesterol~0.35–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingCleansing

An emollient that is naturally found in skin

More about Cholesterol
Anthemis nobilis flower water~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Perfluorohexane~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used in products to help dissolve oxygen and enhance oxygen molecule penetration into the skin. There is no evidence for benefits of the oxygen emulsion in topical creams, lotions or serums. There is a study available confirming a positive impact of oxygen therapy for skin wound healing, but it used an oxygen emulsion stored under high pressure using special equipment

More about Perfluorohexane
Persea gratissima fruit extract~0.3–0.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing
More about Persea gratissima fruit extract
Maltodextrin~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Mattifying

Used to stabilize the product formulation and can help absorb oil

More about Maltodextrin
1,2-hexanediol~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol
Vitis vinifera seed extract~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-agingAnti-inflammatoryAntibacterial

A plant extract that contains resveratrol and other anti-oxidant compounds that can help neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation in skin and even out its tone. Can be also used to stabilize the product formulation

More about Vitis vinifera seed extract
Camellia sinensis leaf extract~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
AntibacterialAnti-oxidationAnti-agingAnti-blemishEvens skin toneMoisturizing

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
Salix alba bark extract~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidationAnti-blemishExfoliation

A plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. It contains a compound salicin that can theoretically be converted into salicylic acid that, in turn, helps reduce inflammation in skin, but the evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking and the extract is usually not used in a concentration that would enable an exfoliating effect

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Magnolia kobus bark extract~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Chrysanthemum indicum flower extract~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to increase stability of product formulations

More about Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Glycine soja sprout extract~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Perfluorodecalin~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Silk extract~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Silk extract
Hydrolyzed silk~0.3–0.55%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrolyzed silk
Aloe barbadensis leaf extract~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Traditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin

More about Aloe barbadensis leaf extract
Perfluoromethylcyclopentane~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used in products to create an oxygen emulsion

More about Perfluoromethylcyclopentane
Citric acid~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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

More about Citric acid
Olea europaea leaf extract~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties but evidence for effectiveness in skin is missing

More about Olea europaea leaf extract
Artemisia princeps leaf extract~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Cinnamomum cassia bark extract~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Cinnamomum cassia bark extract
Pueraria lobata root extract~0.3–0.5%
Formula
Diospyros kaki leaf extract~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Morus alba fruit extract~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Steareth-20~0.4–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Steareth-20
Melaleuca alternifolia flower/leaf/stem extract~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A tea tree extract. Can be irritating

More about Melaleuca alternifolia flower/leaf/stem extract
Punica granatum fruit juice~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A fruit juice. Might have some anti-oxidant properties but is unlikely to have any benefit when used in skincare

More about Punica granatum fruit juice
Hydrolyzed collagen~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A typically plant-derived compound that is supposed mimic human collagen. Cannot penetrate the skin barrier so is not particularly useful in skincare products beyond attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrolyzed collagen
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Charcoal powder~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Benefits for the skin are not clear

More about Charcoal powder
Lactobacillus/honeysuckle flower/licorice root/morus alba root/pueraria lobata root/schisandra chinensis fruit/scutellaria baicalensis root/sophora japonica flower extract ferment filtrate~0.25–0.45%
Formula
Chlorhexidine digluconate~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Chlorhexidine digluconate
N-hydroxysuccinimide~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Evens skin tone

Is claimed to be able to brighten skin tone by removing some blood-related pigmented compounds in skin (hemoglobin and related elements) but solid research is missing. Can be irritating

More about N-hydroxysuccinimide
Palmitoyl tripeptide-1~0.2–0.4%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Palmitoyl tripeptide-1
Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid~0.15–0.3%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin. A version of it is naturally present in skin

More about Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid
Chrysin~0.15–0.3%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

Might be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as lightening the skin, but solid evidence is missing. Could somewhat help in reducing the darkness of the under-eye area. Helps to neutralise free radicals in skin

More about Chrysin
Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7~0.2–0.4%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7
Iron oxides~0.1–0.2%
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
Titanium dioxide~0.1–0.2%
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
Ingredient list view

Water, Dimethicone, Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, Butylene glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer, Butyloctyl salicylate, Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethicone, Snail secretion filtrate, Sodium chloride, Bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2, Aluminum hydroxide, Stearic acid, Disteardimonium hectorite, Sorbitan isostearate, Polyglyceryl-4 isostearate, Hexyl laurate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Triethyl citrate, Ethyl hexanediol, Sodium benzoate, Potassium sorbate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Tocopheryl acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium edta, Canadian colloidal clay, Moroccan lava clay, Avena sativa kernel extract, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Curcuma longa root extract, Sulfur, Cholesterol, Anthemis nobilis flower water, Perfluorohexane, Persea gratissima fruit extract, Maltodextrin, 1,2-hexanediol, Vitis vinifera seed extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Salix alba bark extract, Magnolia kobus bark extract, Chrysanthemum indicum flower extract, Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Glycine soja sprout extract, Perfluorodecalin, Silk extract, Hydrolyzed silk, Aloe barbadensis leaf extract, Perfluoromethylcyclopentane, Citric acid, Olea europaea leaf extract, Artemisia princeps leaf extract, Cinnamomum cassia bark extract, Pueraria lobata root extract, Diospyros kaki leaf extract, Morus alba fruit extract, Steareth-20, Melaleuca alternifolia flower/leaf/stem extract, Punica granatum fruit juice, Hydrolyzed collagen, Ethylhexylglycerin, Charcoal powder, Lactobacillus/honeysuckle flower/licorice root/morus alba root/pueraria lobata root/schisandra chinensis fruit/scutellaria baicalensis root/sophora japonica flower extract ferment filtrate, Chlorhexidine digluconate, N-hydroxysuccinimide, Palmitoyl tripeptide-1, Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, Chrysin, Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, Iron oxides, Titanium dioxide

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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
It CosmeticsCC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40YOUR PRODUCTNorevaSensidiane AR+ CC Anti-Redness Cream SPF30ACWELLSolar Defense Licorice Sun CreamElizaveccaMilky Piggy Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++
Match—72%70%67%
Price—$19.64$28.00$8.10
Shared key ingredients—5 of 164 of 166 of 16
Key difference—Potassium Azeloyl DiglycinateAdenosineAdenosine
Irritancy Medium Low Low Medium
SPFSPF 40SPF 30SPF 50SPF 50
Drying alcohol————
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More alternatives: ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun CreamBeauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen Lightweight Water-Resistant SPF 50

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Product summary

Based on the ingredient list, we assess that "It Cosmetics - CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40" can provide reliable sun protection. 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).

It contains good moisturizing ingredients and can double 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. The organic filters in the product are: butyloctyl salicylate. As for the mineral filters, this sunscreen uses both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Irritation risk

We assess the overall irritancy of this product to be medium. 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.

What our users say

Based on 1 review 0% recommend this product
    Our users describe the finish of this product as matt and They find the product's texture to be heavy.

    About the brand

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

    Price

    The product retails from 33.12£ up to 36.50£ 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 28 studies and safety reviews.

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    It Cosmetics CC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40
    It CosmeticsCC+ Cream Oil-Free Matte with SPF 40

    Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

    As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.