5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50

5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50

Full Size | 2 fl. oz.
A$66.00
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5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50
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5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50

5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50

  • Age Prevention
  • Brightening
  • Sun Protection

This weightless, multi-active moisturiser is supercharged with 5% vitamin C, acetyl zingerone & algae-derived amino acids to protect, brighten & hydrate.

  • Broad-spectrum tinted base SPF 50 helps aid in the prevention of premature skin ageing
  • 5% vitamin C brightens & hydrates skin
  • Visibly brightens & helps prevent discolourations
  • Weightless hydration & sheer finish for all skin types & tones
A$66.00
Benefits

5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 is a tinted base moisturiser in one multi-active step. 3 types of highly stable vitamin C brighten dullness, even tone and hydrate. Algae-derived amino acids enhance skin’s ability to resist signs of environmental damage now and over time. The weightless, hydrating formula creates an instant glow with a light tint for all skin types and tones.

Ginger-derived omni-antioxidant acetyl zingerone reduces and helps prevent damage and the look of discoloration. Algae aminos, derived from red macroalgae, enhance UV protection and work below skin’s surface to strengthen & protect, while three forms of vitamin C boost SPF, offer multi-level brightening for a healthier, radiant look. Learn more about vitamin C for skin.

The bottle for this full-sized product is made from 96% recycled material (excluding cap and orifice reducer).
How To Use

Use as the last step in your AM skin care routine. Apply liberally to your face and neck at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply as needed.
Ingredients

Key Ingredients

  • Avobenzone
  • Octinoxate
  • Octisalate
  • Octocrylene
  • Aqua/Water/Eau
See All Ingredients
  • Glycerin
  • Silica
  • 3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
  • Ascorbyl Glucoside
  • Dimethicone
  • Propanediol
  • Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
  • Acetyl Zingerone
  • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
  • Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
  • Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
  • Porphyra Umbilicalis Extract
  • Hydrogenated Lecithin
  • Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
  • Sodium Hydroxide
  • Tocopherol
  • Xanthan Gum
  • Ethylhexylglycerin
  • Laureth-4
  • Phenoxyethanol
  • Potassium Sorbate
  • Sodium Benzoate
  • Titanium Dioxide
  • Iron Oxides
  • Entada Phaseoloides Bark/Seed Extract

Paula's Choice is dedicated to maintaining the accuracy of the ingredient lists on this website. However, because ingredients are subject to change, we cannot guarantee that these lists are error-free. For an accurate listing of ingredients in each product, please refer to your product packaging.
Research
  • Antioxidants, January 2023, pages 1–17
  • Natural Product Communications, January 2022, pages 1–8
  • Molecules, January 2022, pages 1–13
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2021, pages 691–702; September 2019 pages 36–45; and September 2014, pages 2–30
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, September 2021, pages 2,349–2,359
  • Free Radical Biology and Medicine, July 2021, pages 151–16
  • Marine Drugs, November 2018, pages 1–20
  • Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology, September 2015, pages 121–126

Clinically proven to prevent redness & increase hydration after 1 week*

*Based on self-assessments from a consumer study of 89 people after 1 week

FAQs

Is the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 good for breakout-prone skin?

Yes, this ultra-light tinted base is suitable for acne-prone skin. It contains vitamin C along with other potent antioxidants plus algae extract that can help soothe redness, while also working to fade post-breakout marks. The formula is lightweight, so it won't clog pores and worsen breakouts.

Is the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 good for rosacea, eczema-prone or sensitive skin?

While the 3 forms of vitamin C used in this product are known to be highly stable and gentle on skin, how sensitive, reactive skin will respond to this formula varies due to synthetic actives and vitamin C potency. Patch-test on a small area to see how skin responds. For those with sensitive, reactive or rosacea-prone skin, use mineral-based sunscreens like DEFENSE Essential Glow SPF 30 or CALM Barrier Protect Mineral Moisturizer SPF 15.

Can I use the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 over other vitamin C products?

Yes, using multiple vitamin C skin care products can enhance free radical protection, environmental defense and improve discolorations, wrinkles and loss of firmness. Start slow with multiple bioactive products like retinol, AHA/BHA and niacinamide and increase use over time as needed.

Are there any products or ingredients the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 cannot be used with?

Only copper peptides. Copper peptides can potentially oxidize vitamin C, making it less effective on skin. When using vitamin C and copper peptides in your routine, we recommend using one in the morning and the other at night to ensure maximum effectiveness.

How is the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 different than other Paula's Choice sunscreens?

Our 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 is our only sunscreen that contains a unique combination of vitamin C, specialized algae extracts, and acetyl zingerone. This combination helps brighten skin, reduces oxidative stress and helps boost skins natural defenses. It also helps to improve uneven skin tone and discolorations. Its fluid, lightweight texture is reminiscent of our best-selling RESIST Youth-Extending SPF 50 and the CLEAR Ultra-Light SPF 30. It absorbs faster and leaves a subtle glow from its sheer soft peach tint.

How does the packaging of the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 keep the product stable?

Research makes it clear that many of the best ingredients for skin—including antioxidants and anti-aging champions like vitamin C — can break down in the presence of light and air. This sunscreen is housed in an opaque tube that does not allow any exposure to light or oxygen, ensuring it is stable and effective from first to last use.

Can the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50 be used around the eyes, especially if one is using the C5 Eye Cream?

Yes, and doing so may help increase overall results. To use both, you can apply the C5 Super Boost Eye Cream in the morning followed by the 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50. If you find that layering sensitizes your skin, consider applying the C5 Super Boost Eye Cream at night. Experimentation is key, remember to start slow, see how your skin responds and work up to increasing use over time as needed/desired. If the combination of C5 Eye Cream and SPF 50 does not work for you during the day, try another Paula’s Choice eye cream in the morning. Remember to apply skin care products around the orbital bone, avoiding the eye and lash line area.

How does vitamin C enhance sunscreen?

Vitamin C enhances sunscreen by boosting antioxidant protection and helping to brighten skin tone. This combination helps aid in the prevention of premature sun ageing, promotes skin health, and maintains a youthful appearance.