Here's our complete breakdown comparing the ingredients, attributes, and more of Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer versus Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ .
Published on July 28, 2021
Overview
What they are
These products are both cruelty-free . They have a total of 16 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain SPF, Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, scar healing, dark spots and better texture
Free From
They both do not contain any oils, parabens or sulfates
What's Inside
They both contain common allergens, fragrances and silicones
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that need an update? Let us know.
General Moisturizer
All-purpose moisturizers hydrate the top layer of skin cells.
Sunscreen
Sunscreens help absorb or reflect UV radiation and protect skin against skin damage. Sunscreens may come in the form of lotion, gel, foam, spray, or solid-stick.
Price
Ingredient Info
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer 39 ingredients
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ 50 ingredients
Contains Alcohol
Ingredients in this product that are types of alcohol:
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Contains Fragrance
Ingredients in this product that are forms of fragrance:
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Oil Free
This product is free of oils 🎉
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Not Reef Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not reef safe:
Contains EU Allergens
Ingredients in this product that are EU allergens:
Non Vegan
This product is not vegan 😥
Cruelty Free
This product is cruelty-free 🎉
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Contains Fragrance
Ingredients in this product that are forms of fragrance:
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Oil Free
This product is free of oils 🎉
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Not Reef Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not reef safe:
Contains EU Allergens
Ingredients in this product that are EU allergens:
Non Vegan
This product is not vegan 😥
Cruelty Free
This product is cruelty-free 🎉
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer 39 ingredients
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ 50 ingredients
Notable Ingredients
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Benefits
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Concerns
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Notable Ingredients
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Benefits
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Concerns
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
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Join SkinSortIngredients Compared
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer 39 ingredients
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ 50 ingredients
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 3% • Homosalate 5% • Ethylhexyl Salicylate 5% • Octocrylene 7% • Water • Glycerin • Silica • Dimethicone • Peg-100 Stearate • Glyceryl Stearate • Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate • Ascorbyl Glucoside • Benzyl Alcohol • Benzyl Salicylate • Butylene Glycol • Capryloyl Salicylic Acid • Caprylyl Glycol • Citral • Dicaprylyl Carbonate • Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer • Dipropylene Glycol • Disodium EDTA • Parfum • Geraniol • Limonene • Linalool • Myristic Acid • Nymphaea Alba Flower Extract • Palmitic Acid • Phenoxyethanol • Phenylethyl Resorcinol • Sodium Hyaluronate • Sodium Hydroxide • Sodium Palmitoyl Proline • Steareth-100 • Stearic Acid • T-Butyl Alcohol • Tocopherol • Xanthan Gum
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 3% • Homosalate 6.5% • Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate 7.5% • Ethylhexyl Salicylate 5% • Benzophenone-3 2% • Water • Butylene Glycol • Stearic Acid • Diisopropyl Sebacate • Cocoglycerides • Lauryl Lactate • Glyceryl Stearate • Peg-100 Stearate • Isodecyl Neopentanoate • Dimethicone • Cetyl Alcohol • Cetyl Phosphate • Urea • Yeast Amino Acids • Trehalose • Inositol • Taurine • Betaine • Phospholipids • Retinyl Palmitate • Tocopheryl Acetate • Ascorbyl Palmitate • Pelvetia Canaliculata Extract • Ectoin • Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract • Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract • Passiflora Incarnata Extract • Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate • Sodium PCA • Panthenol • Tripleurospermum Maritimum Extract • Zinc Gluconate • Ethyl Linoleate • Magnesium Aluminum Silicate • Xanthan Gum • Aminomethyl Propanol • Disodium EDTA • Phenoxyethanol • Caprylyl Glycol • Chlorphenesin • Limonene • Linalool • Parfum • CI 15985 • CI 17200
Ingredients Side-by-side
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Learn more about what what Com. / Irr. ratings are
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Also known as Avobenzone, this ingredient is a chemical sunscreen filter that provides protection in the UV-A range.
Avobenzone is globally approved and is the most commonly used UV-A filter in the world.
Studies have found that avobenzone becomes ineffective when exposed to UV light (it is not photostable; meaning that it breaks down in sunlight). Because of this, formulations that include avobenzone will usually contain stabilizers such as octocrylene.
However, some modern formulations (looking at you, EU!) are able to stabilize avobenzone by coating the molecules.
Avobenzone does not protect against the UV-B range, so it's important to check that the sunscreen you're using contains other UV filters that do!
The highest concentration of avobenzone permitted is 3% in the US, and 5% in the EU.
Learn more about Butyl MethoxydibenzoylmethaneGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 1.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 1.
Homosalate is a chemical sunscreen filter that provides protection in the UV-B range (280nm - 320 nm), with a peak protection at 306 nm. It is internationally approved for use in sunscreens.
Homosalate is not photo-stable, meaning it's strength as a UV filter degrades over time with exposure to the sun. Because of this, it's often used in combination with other chemical sunscreen filters as avobenzone (which protects from the UV-A range). Homosalate also helps act as a solvent for harder-to-dissolve UV filters.
(Part of the reason that sunscreens need to be frequently re-applied is due to the photo instability of many chemical sunscreen filters)
Currently, homosalate is approved in concentrations up to 10% in the EU and 15% in the US. The FDA is currently doing further research on the effects of homosalate, and it is possible that these approved concentrations will change in the future.
Learn more about HomosalateGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 2.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 2.
Ethylhexyl Salicylate is an organic compound used to block UV rays. It primarily absorbs UVB rays but offers a small amount of UVA protection as well.
Commonly found in sunscreens, Ethylhexyl Salicylate is created from salicylic acid and 2-ethylhexanol. You might know salicylic acid as the effective acne fighter ingredient and BHA.
The ethylhexanol in this ingredient is a fatty alcohol and helps hydrate your skin, similar to oils. It is an emollient, which means it traps moisture into the skin.
According to manufacturers, Ethylhexyl Salicylate absorbs UV wavelength of 295-315 nm, with a peak absorption at 307-310 nm. UVA rays are linked to long term skin damage, such as hyperpigmentation. UVB rays emit more energy and are capable of damaging our DNA. UVB rays cause sunburn.
Learn more about Ethylhexyl SalicylateGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 3.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 4.
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. Talk about multi-purpose! If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 5.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 6.
Dimethicone is a silicone used for making products smooth and silky. It also has the added benefit of sealing in hydration. The amount of dimethicone found in beauty products is considered safe and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores.
Dimethicone has been found increase absorption in skin, boosting the benefits of other ingredients. While there is concern for the safety of dimethicone, the levels used in skincare are safe for use.
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 8.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 15.
Peg-100 Stearate is an emollient and emulsifier. PEGS are a hydrophilic polyether compound . There are 100 ethylene oxide monomers in Peg-100 Stearate. Peg-100 Stearate is polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid.
Peg-100 Stearate helps keep skin soft by trapping moisture in. It helps prevent oil and water from separating in a product. By binding oil and water, it helps remove dirt and oil to be rinsed away.
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 9.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 13.
Glyceryl Stearate is a mix of glycerin and stearic acid.
Glyceryl Stearate is used to stabilize the mixing of water and oil ingredients. By preventing these ingredients from separating, it can help elongate shelf life. It can also help thicken the product's texture.
As an emollient, it helps soften skin and supports barrier-replenishing ingredients.
In cosmetics, Glyceryl Stearate is often made from vegetable oils or synthetically produced. The human body also creates Glyceryl Stearate naturally.
Learn more about Glyceryl StearateGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 10.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 12.
Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:
- It is a solvent, meaning that it helps to dissolve other ingredients. This also enhances the absorption of the product into one's skin.
- It is a humectant, which means that it helps attract moisture into the skin.
- It helps improve product application.
Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient. It is unlikely to irritate skin, and works well with pretty much all other ingredients.
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 15.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 7.
Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient, meaning it attracts and preserves moisture.
It is a common ingredient in many products, especially those designed to hydrate skin. The primary benefits are retaining moisture, skin softening, and promoting a healthy skin barrier.
Though Caprylyl Glycol is an alcohol derived from fatty acids, it is not the kind that can dry out skin.
This ingredient is also used as a preservative to extend the life of products. It has slight antimicrobial properties.
Learn more about Caprylyl GlycolGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 17.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 44.
Disodium EDTA plays a role in making products more stable by aiding other preservatives.
It is a chelating agent, meaning it neutralizes metal ions that may be found in a product.
Disodium EDTA is a salt of edetic acid and is found to be safe in cosmetic ingredients.
Learn more about Disodium EDTAGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 22.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 42.
Parfum is a catch-all term for an ingredient or more that is used to give aroma to products. Parfum, or fragrance, can be a blend of hundreds of chemicals or plant oils. This means every product with "fragrance" or "Parfum" in the ingredients list is a different mixture.
In the US, the alternative name for parfum is 'fragrance'. The term 'fragrance' is not regulated in many countries. In many cases, it is up to the brand to define this term.
For instance, many brands choose to label themselves as "fragrance-free" because they are not using synthetic fragrances. However, their products may still contain ingredients such as essential oils that are considered a fragrance. One example is Calendula flower extract. Essential oil ingredients still impart a scent or 'fragrance'.
Depending on the blend, it can cause allergies and sensitivities on the skin. Some ingredients that are known EU allergens include linalool and citronellol.
Products use parfum often to give products a scent or cover up smells of different ingredients.
The bottom line is: not all fragrances/parfum/ingredients are created equally. If you are worried about fragrances, we recommend taking a closer look at an ingredient. And of course, we always recommend speaking with a professional.
Learn more about ParfumGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 23.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 48.
Limonene is a fragrance that adds scent and taste to a formulation.
It's found in the peel oil of citrus fruits and other plants such as lavender and eucalyptus. The scent of limonene is generally described as "sweet citrus".
Limonene acts as an antioxidant, meaning it helps neutralize free radicals.
When exposed to air, oxidized limonene may sensitize the skin. Because of this, limonene is often avoided by people with sensitive skin.
The term 'fragrance' is not regulated in many countries. In many cases, it is up to the brand to define this term. For instance, many brands choose to label themselves as "fragrance-free" because they are not using synthetic fragrances. However, their products may still contain ingredients such as essential oils that are considered a fragrance.
Learn more about LimoneneGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 25.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 46.
Linalool is a fragrance and helps add scent to products. It's derived from common plants such as cinnamon, mint, citrus, and lavender.
Linalool has the same effect as Limonene when exposed to air. Oxidized linalool can cause allergies and skin sensitivity.
Linalool has a scent that is floral, spicy tropical, and citrus-like.
Learn more about LinaloolGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 26.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 47.
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent germ and microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 30.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 43.
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid. It is an emollient, emulsifier, and texture enhancer.
As an emollient, stearic acid helps soften skin. It aids the skin's protective barrier by preventing water loss. It also provides a gentle cleansing effect without stripping away natural oils.
Stearic acid may also be used to enhance the texture of products. It can add volume and stabilize ingredients such as water and oil. This can help water and oil ingredients from separating.
Sources of stearic acid include animal or vegetable fats/oils such as coconut or shea. It can be naturally found in butter, cocoa butter, shea butter, vegetable fats, and animal tallow.
This ingredient may not be Malassezia folliculitis, or fungal-acne safe.
Learn more about Stearic AcidGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 36.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 8.
Xanthan gum is used as a stabilizer and thickener within cosmetic products. It helps give products a sticky, thick feeling - preventing them from being too runny.
On the technical side of things, xanthan gum is a polysaccharide - a combination consisting of multiple sugar molecules bonded together.
Xanthan gum is a pretty common and great ingredient. It is a natural, non-toxic, non-irritating ingredient that is also commonly used in food products.
Learn more about Xanthan GumGarnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer contains this as ingredient number 39.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 40.
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these two products.
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer 39 ingredients
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ 50 ingredients
Usage
Here's some more info on how this product is used by our community.
When to use
Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter SPF 30 Face Moisturizer 39 ingredients
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ 50 ingredients
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See 50 alternativesOur Dupe Finder has found 50 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++.
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