Clarins UV Plus SPF 50 Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

• Titanium Dioxide (≈ 10.9 %)

Titanium Dioxide is a physical / mineral UV filter. It works by reflecting and scattering ultraviolet (UV) rays, especially UVB and shorter UVA (UVA‑II) wavelengths, helping to protect the skin from sunburn and photo‑damage. Study

 It is generally very stable under sunlight, meaning it doesn’t degrade easily when exposed to UV, which helps maintain protection. Because it’s a mineral type, it tends to be gentler on sensitive skin and less likely to provoke irritation compared to some chemical filters. A possible downside is that Titanium Dioxide can leave a slight white cast, particularly on deeper skin tones, depending on particle size and formulation.

• Homosalate (4 %)

Homosalate is a chemical UVB filter: it absorbs UVB rays in the roughly 295‑315 nm range, helping to prevent sunburn and damage from those shorter wavelengths. Because its UVB‑filtering ability is moderate, it is used in combination with other filters to achieve high SPF and broad coverage. On the flip side, Homosalate is less photostable on its own (it can degrade under UV if not stabilized by other agents), so its performance depends on the rest of the formulation. Also, some in vitro or lab‑based studies point to possible estrogenic or endocrine effects at high doses, though real‑world safety data at approved concentrations are generally considered acceptable.

• Octocrylene (4 %)

Octocrylene is another chemical UV filter, providing strong protection especially in the UVB region and some UVA‑II. It is valued for its photostability (helps resist degradation under sunlight) and for helping to stabilize other UV filters in the formula. However, some skin types may find octocrylene slightly irritating or sensitizing, and there are concerns with its accumulation in skin or possible allergenicity for sensitive individuals.  Study

• Oxybenzone (1.5 %)

Oxybenzone is a chemical filter that absorbs both UVB and some UVA rays (especially UVA‑II), contributing to the broad‑spectrum protection in the formulation. It is efficient even at relatively low concentrations because of its absorption spectrum. But, like several chemical UV filters, it has drawn scrutiny: concerns include potential skin irritation, possible hormonal (endocrine) effects in some studies, and environmental issues (notably its effect on coral reefs). Regulatory bodies in various countries monitor their usage carefully.

• Antioxidants & Moisturisers – Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycerin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate

Beyond UV filters, this sunscreen also includes several support/beneficial ingredients. For example:

• Tocopheryl Acetate (a form of Vitamin E) acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure or pollution, thereby reducing oxidative stress on skin.

• Glycerin is a humectant: it draws moisture from the air into the skin and helps maintain hydration, which improves comfort (less dryness or tightening), especially when using sunscreen, which may dry out skin.

• Sodium Hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid: it holds moisture well, improves plumping, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines due to dehydration.

• Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (green tea extract) provides antioxidant and soothing properties, helping to calm irritation and mitigate oxidative damage from environmental stressors.\

If you like, I can also prepare a table of all the UV filters in this product, with their pros & cons, or compare with competing sunscreens. Do you want that?