RAFRA

RAFRA UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++

Name: RAFRA - UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Brand: RAFRA

SPF 50Efficacy90/100IrritancyHigh·3 UV filters

See all ingredients

Works for

Sun protection

SPF 50 · 3 UV filters

Broad spectrum

SPF 50Broad spectrumChemical filtersNo white cast

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.

UV spectrum

UVB290–320 nmUVA II320–340 nmUVA I340–400 nm

Octinoxate

Tinosorb S

Uvinul A Plus

FilterCoverageWhat it doesEst. amount

OctinoxateEthylhexyl MethoxycinnamateUVBOctinoxate. When used in higher concentrations, works as a sunscreen protecting the skin from UVB rays. When used in lower concentration, helps to preserve the product formulation. Is shown to be harmful to coral reefs - consider avoiding bathing in coral reef areas when wearing a product with this ingredient. It can be irritating~4.7–5.7%

Tinosorb SBis-ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl TriazineUVBUVA Photo-stable Tinosorb S. One of the most effective broad spectrum sunscreen ingredients. Protects from both UVA and UVB rays. It is photostable. Approved by the US FDA in 2026 (listed as bemotrizinol on US labels).~0.35–0.6%

Uvinul A PlusDiethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl BenzoateUVA1 Photo-stable Uvinul A Plus. A new generation broad spectrum sunscreen that offers an effective protection especially in the UVA range. It is stable in formulations. Unfortunately, is not approved by the FDA (US) yet~3.5–4.3%

~ marks concentrations estimated from label position and typical use levels

Moisturizing

Ceramide np, Ethylhexyl palmitate + 8 more

Works well

What the product description says

“In addition, more than 10 types of beauty essence ingredients such as mandarina coria, hyaluronic acid, and collagen moisturize the skin each time it is used.”

Source: Yesstyle

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: hydrolyzed collagen, 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: hydrolyzed collagen, ethylhexyl palmitate.

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

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~0.3–0.55%

Ethylhexyl palmitateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin and create a nice product texture~2–2.4%

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~0.4–0.65%

Royal jelly extractKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumA compound secreted by bees. Might be able to attract water to the top layer of the skin. Avoid if sensitive to honey and bee products~0.3–0.55%

Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.2–0.4%

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~6.3–7.8%

Pentylene glycol· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture~1.7–2%

Polyquaternium-51Effect: LowAn emollient that helps create a nice silky finish on the skin~0.7–1.05%

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~0.45–0.65%

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateEffect: Low, below effective doseA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~0.45–0.65%

Evens skin tone

Not advertised by the brand · Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate

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).

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~0.45–0.65%

Anti-aging

Not advertised by the brand · Tocopherol, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate

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.

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

4 strong irritants: Zingiber officinale root extract, Citrus reticulata extract + 2 more — patch-test recommended

High risk

We flagged 12 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.

IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount

Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamateOctinoxate. When used in higher concentrations, works as a sunscreen protecting the skin from UVB rays. When used in lower concentration, helps to preserve the product formulation. Is shown to be harmful to coral reefs - consider avoiding bathing in coral reef areas when wearing a product with this ingredient. It can be irritatingHigh~4.7–5.7%est.

Zingiber officinale root extractA plant extract that can contain an irritating essential oil. Might have some anti-oxidant effect, but evidence is lackingHigh~1.2–1.5%est.

Citrus reticulata extract—High~0.55–0.8%est.

Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extractUsed as a fragranceHigh~0.45–0.65%est.

Citrus aurantium dulcis oilUsed as a fragrance. It can be irritating and cause photosensitivityHigh~0.15–0.3%est.

Diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoateUvinul A Plus. A new generation broad spectrum sunscreen that offers an effective protection especially in the UVA range. It is stable in formulations. Unfortunately, is not approved by the FDA (US) yetMedium~3.5–4.3%est.

Pentylene glycolUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product textureMedium~1.7–2%est.

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)Medium~0.45–0.65%est.

Royal jelly extractA compound secreted by bees. Might be able to attract water to the top layer of the skin. Avoid if sensitive to honey and bee productsMedium~0.3–0.55%est.

Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazineTinosorb S. One of the most effective broad spectrum sunscreen ingredients. Protects from both UVA and UVB rays. It is photostable. Unfortunately, not approved by FDA (US) yet.Medium~0.35–0.6%est.

Potassium hydroxideUsed to adjust the pH level of productsMedium~0.15–0.25%est.

PvpHelps evenly disperse other ingredients in a formulation and create an even layer on the surface of the skinMedium~0.1–0.15%est.

Comedogenic

2 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale

2 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

Ethylhexyl palmitateAn emollient that helps soften the skin and create a nice product texture3/5~2–2.4%est.

Theobroma cacao seed extract—3/5~1.1–1.4%est.

Alternatives

Cheaper, or higher on efficacy

Transparent Lab Lightweight Sunscreen SPF50+

Cheaper59% match

$24.12

TAISHO Coppertone Secret Change UV Cream SPF 50+ PA++++ Marshmallow White

CheaperHigher efficacy · 95/10059% match

$21.38

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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Butylene glycol~6.3–7.8%

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

Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate~4.7–5.7%

UV filterKey activeIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Sun protection

Octinoxate. When used in higher concentrations, works as a sunscreen protecting the skin from UVB rays. When used in lower concentration, helps to preserve the product formulation. Is shown to be harmful to coral reefs - consider avoiding bathing in coral reef areas when wearing a product with this ingredient. It can be irritating

More about Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate

Diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate~3.5–4.3%

UV filterKey activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Sun protection

Uvinul A Plus. A new generation broad spectrum sunscreen that offers an effective protection especially in the UVA range. It is stable in formulations. Unfortunately, is not approved by the FDA (US) yet

More about Diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate

Silica~2.5–3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Used to absorb oil and can temporarily mattify skin

More about Silica

Ethylhexyl palmitate~2–2.4%

Key activeComedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

Works for

Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Ethylhexyl palmitate

Pentylene glycol~1.7–2%

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

Zingiber officinale root extract~1.2–1.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that can contain an irritating essential oil. Might have some anti-oxidant effect, but evidence is lacking

More about Zingiber officinale root extract

Theobroma cacao seed extract~1.1–1.4%

Comedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

More about Theobroma cacao seed extract

European strawberry seed oil

Not recognized

Fullerenes~0.9–1.1%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Fullerenes

Polyquaternium-51~0.7–1.05%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

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

More about Polyquaternium-51

Citrus reticulata extract~0.55–0.8%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

More about Citrus reticulata extract

Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extract~0.45–0.65%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance

More about Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extract

Acerola fruit extract

Not recognized

Tocopherol~0.45–0.65%

Formula

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

Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate~0.45–0.65%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizing

A vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

More about Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate

Hydrolyzed collagen~0.4–0.65%

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

Aloe vera leaf extract~0.45–0.65%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Aloe vera leaf extract

Royal jelly extract~0.3–0.55%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

A compound secreted by bees. Might be able to attract water to the top layer of the skin. Avoid if sensitive to honey and bee products

More about Royal jelly extract

Cha leaf extract

Not recognized

Ceramide np~0.3–0.55%

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

Sodium hyaluronate~0.2–0.4%

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

Polyglyceryl-10 myristate~0.25–0.4%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Polyglyceryl-10 myristate

Phenoxyethanol~0.2–0.35%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol

Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine~0.35–0.6%

UV filterKey activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Sun protection

Tinosorb S. One of the most effective broad spectrum sunscreen ingredients. Protects from both UVA and UVB rays. It is photostable. Unfortunately, not approved by FDA (US) yet.

More about Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine

Citrus aurantium dulcis oil~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance. It can be irritating and cause photosensitivity

More about Citrus aurantium dulcis oil

Carbomer~0.15–0.25%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer

Potassium hydroxide~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Used to adjust the pH level of products

More about Potassium hydroxide

Xanthan gum~0.1–0.2%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum

Pvp~0.1–0.15%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Helps evenly disperse other ingredients in a formulation and create an even layer on the surface of the skin

More about Pvp

Ingredient list view

Water, Butylene glycol, Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, Diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, Silica, Ethylhexyl palmitate, Pentylene glycol, Zingiber officinale root extract, Theobroma cacao seed extract, Unknown, Fullerenes, Polyquaternium-51, Citrus reticulata extract, Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extract, Unknown, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, Hydrolyzed collagen, Aloe vera leaf extract, Royal jelly extract, Unknown, Ceramide np, Sodium hyaluronate, Polyglyceryl-10 myristate, Phenoxyethanol, Bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, Citrus aurantium dulcis oil, Carbomer, Potassium hydroxide, Xanthan gum, Pvp

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$40.30

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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
	RAFRAUV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++YOUR PRODUCT	Transparent LabLightweight Sunscreen SPF50+	TAISHOCoppertone Secret Change UV Cream SPF 50+ PA++++ Marshmallow White	ManyoGalactomy Sérum Solaire SPF50+ PA++++
Match	—	59%	59%	58%
Price	$40.30	$24.12−$16.18	$21.38−$18.92	$17.89−$22.41
Shared key ingredients	—	5 of 7	5 of 7	5 of 7
Key difference	—	Ceramide Ap	Ascorbyl Glucoside	Niacinamide
Irritancy	High	Low	Low	Low
SPF	SPF 50	SPF 50	SPF 50	SPF 50
Drying alcohol	—	—	—	—
	View product	Shop	Shop	Shop

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Product summary

Based on the ingredients included, we believe that "RAFRA - UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++" 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).

It should also be hydrating enough to use without an additional moisturizer during the day. Like all broad-spectrum sunscreens, this product has an anti-aging benefit.

Sunscreen filters

This is a so-called "chemical" sunscreen. It means that it uses organic UV filters. They typically offer good sun protection and rarely leave a white cast, but they can be irritating for some people with sensitive skin. Here are the exact UV filters in this sunscreen: tinosorb s 0.35% - 0.60%, uvinul a plus 3.50% - 4.30% and octinoxate 4.70% - 5.70%.

Irritation risk

We assess the overall irritancy of it 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.

Price

The product retails for 40.30$ in the United States.

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
Some phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): A review of recent researchsciencedirect.com
2
Vitamin E in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
3
Vitamin E and Skin Healthlpi.oregonstate.edu
4
Assessment of penetration of Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate into biological membranes by molecular dynamicssciencedirect.com
5
Stability evaluation of tocopheryl acetate and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate in isolation and incorporated in cosmetic formulations using thermal analysisscielo.br
6
A new lipophilic pro-vitamin C, tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid (VC-IP), prevents UV-induced skin pigmentation through its anti-oxidative propertiessciencedirect.com
7
New lipophilic pro-vitamin C, tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid (VC-IP), suppresses senile lentigo through controlling of melanocytes-keratinocytes interactionmorressier.com
8
Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin’s own natural moisturizing systemsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
9
Topically Applied Ceramides Interact with the Stratum Corneum Lipid Matrix in Compromised Ex Vivo Skinncbi.nlm.nih.gov
10
Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin agingncbi.nlm.nih.gov
11
Hyaluronan (Hyaluronic Acid): a natural moisturizer for skin careresearchgate.net
12
Safety Assessment of Citrus-Derived Peel Oils as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
13
Oxidized citrus oil (R-limonene): A frequent skin sensitizer in Europesciencedirect.com
14
Air oxidation increases skin irritation from fragrance terpenesonlinelibrary.wiley.com

RAFRAUV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++

Buy at Yesstyle$40.30 Amazon

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

Buy at Yesstyle$40.30 Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.