Here's our complete breakdown comparing the ingredients, attributes, and more of Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ versus Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen .
Published on July 12, 2023
Overview
What they are
These products are both fungal acne (malassezia) safe sunscreens. They have a total of 20 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain niacinamide, SPF and Vitamin E
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, reducing pores, scar healing and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens or sulfates
What's Inside
They both contain silicones
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that need an update? Let us know.
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.
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
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ 30 ingredients
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen 22 ingredients
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Fragrance Free
This product is free of fragrances 🎉
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Oil Free
This product is free of oils 🎉
Malassezia Safe
This product is free of malassezia feeding ingredients 🎉
Not Reef Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not reef safe:
EU Allergen Free
This product is free of EU allergens 🎉
Vegan
This product is vegan 🎉
Not Cruelty Free
This product is not cruelty-free 😥
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Fragrance Free
This product is free of fragrances 🎉
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Oil Free
This product is free of oils 🎉
Malassezia Safe
This product is free of malassezia feeding ingredients 🎉
Not Reef Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not reef safe:
EU Allergen Free
This product is free of 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
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ 30 ingredients
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen 22 ingredients
Notable Ingredients
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Benefits
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Concerns
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
Notable Ingredients
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
Benefits
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
Concerns
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
This product contains 1 ingredient that may have this attribute:
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.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ 30 ingredients
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen 22 ingredients
Water • Zinc Oxide 12% • C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate • Butyloctyl Salicylate • Isododecane • Lauryl Peg-8 Dimethicone • Polymethylsilsesquioxane • Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate • Propanediol • Caprylyl Methicone • Dimethicone • Niacinamide • Lauryl Peg-10 Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)Silylethyl Dimethicone • Dimethiconol • Trilaureth-4 Phosphate • Tocopherol • Allantoin • Bisabolol • Caprylyl Glycol • Ethylhexylglycerin • Hexylene Glycol • Peg-10 • Phenoxyethanol • Sodium Chloride • Sodium Hydroxide • Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate • Triethoxycaprylylsilane • CI 77492 • CI 77499 • CI 77491
Zinc Oxide 12% • C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate • Butyloctyl Salicylate • Isododecane • Lauryl Peg-8 Dimethicone • Polymethylsilsesquioxane • Propanediol • Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate • C15-19 Alkane • Caprylyl Methicone • Niacinamide • Lauryl Peg-10 Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)Silylethyl Dimethicone • Dimethicone • Dimethicone Crosspolymer • Trilaureth-4 Phosphate • Allantoin • Bisabolol • Tocopherol • Sodium Chloride • Phenoxyethanol • Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate • Peg-10
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.
Zinc Oxide is a mineral broad-spectrum UV filter; it is the broadest UVA and UVB reflector approved by the FDA. While it is most commonly man-made for cosmetics, it can naturally occur in zincite, a rare mineral.
Today, traditional and nano-sized zinc oxide can be found in beauty products. Nano-sized zinc oxide can enhance a product's UV protection. While it is not believed to have a negative effect on skin, nano-zinc oxide can be harmful to coral reefs.
More about harmful reef ingredients here.
Zinc Oxide also has antibacterial and calming properties. It is not water soluble.
Zinc has been used throughout history as an ingredient in paint and medicine. An Indian text from 500BC is believed to list zinc oxide as a salve for open wound. The Ancient Greek physician Dioscorides has also mentioned the use of zinc as an ointment in 1AD.
Learn more about Zinc OxideSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 2.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 1.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is made up of Benzoic Acid and long chain alcohols. It has a low molecular weight.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is an emollient and texture enhancer. Due to its solubility, it is often used in sunscreens to help evenly distribute active ingredients.
As an emollient, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate helps soften and hydrate your skin. Emollients create a film on your skin that traps moisture within.
This ingredient has been reported to cause eye irritation.
Learn more about C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 3.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 2.
Butyloctyl Salicylate is a photostabilizer, emollient and solvent. Its main purpose is to evenly spread out ingredients.
This ingredient is a common sunscreen ingredient carrier and photostabilizer. According to a manufacturer, it is suitable for carrying micro Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, and pigments.
Photostabilizers help stabilize UV-filters and prevents them from degrading quickly.
According to EU regulation, this ingredient can cause harmful effects to aquatic life.
Learn more about Butyloctyl SalicylateSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 4.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 3.
Isododecane is a fragrance, emollient, and solvent.
As an emollient, it helps your skin stay soft and hydrated. Emollients help trap moisture into your skin.
Isododecane's role as a solvent makes it a great texture enhancer. It spreads smoothly on skin and does not leave a sticky feeling behind. Isododecane also helps prevent color transfer in makeup products.
Isododecane is not absorbed into skin.
Learn more about IsododecaneSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 5.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 4.
Lauryl Peg-8 Dimethicone is a type of silicone.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 6.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 5.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a silicone used as a film forming agent.
When applied to the skin, this ingredient creates an invisible film on the surface. This film still allows oxygen to pass through, but prevents moisture from escaping. This can help condition and hydrate the skin. It also leaves a silky feel when applied.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane has not been shown to clog pores. It has been deemed safe to use up to 55%, but most cosmetics use much less.
If you have concerns about using this ingredient, we recommend speaking with a professional.
Learn more about PolymethylsilsesquioxaneSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 7.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 6.
We don't have a description for Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 8.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 8.
Propanediol helps absorb ingredients into your skin, boosting their benefits. It can act as an emollient, making your skin softer. Propanediol can help products last longer by boosting the properties of preservatives within the formulation.
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use.
It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 9.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 7.
Caprylyl Methicone is a type of silicone.
It helps soften and soothe the skin by creating a thin film on top. This film helps trap moisture, keeping your skin hydrated.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 10.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 10.
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.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 11.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 13.
Niacinamide has emerged as an all-star ingredient due to its many benefits.
It is known to treat acne by reducing inflammation. It also helps fade dark-spots and strengthen the skin by promoting the growth of the ceramide barrier.
Other benefits include smoothing wrinkles and minimizing redness.
The cherry on top? Niacinamide can also help build keratin, a protein that keeps skin firm.
When incorporating niacinamide into your routine, look out for concentration amounts. Typically, 5% niacinamide provides benefits such as fading dark spots. However, if you have sensitive skin, it is better to begin with a smaller concentration.
Niacinamide can be mixed with other ingredients to boost benefits. For instance, it has shown to be effective when used with copper, folic acid, and zinc to treat acne.
Learn more about NiacinamideSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 12.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 11.
Lauryl Peg-10 Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)Silylethyl Dimethicone is a type of silicone.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 13.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 12.
We don't have a description for Trilaureth-4 Phosphate.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 15.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 15.
Tocopherol (also known as Vitamin E) is a common antioxidant used to help protect the skin from free-radicals and strengthen the skin barrier. It's also fat soluble - this means our skin is great at absorbing it.
Vitamin E also helps keep your natural skin lipids healthy. Your lipid skin barrier naturally consists of lipids, ceramides, and fatty acids. Vitamin E offers extra protection for your skin’s lipid barrier, keeping your skin healthy and nourished.
Another benefit is a bit of UV protection. Vitamin E helps reduce the damage caused by UVB rays. (It should not replace your sunscreen). Combining it with Vitamin C can decrease sunburned cells and hyperpigmentation after UV exposure.
You might have noticed Vitamin E + C often paired together. This is because it is great at stabilizing Vitamin C. Using the two together helps increase the effectiveness of both ingredients.
There are often claims that Vitamin E can reduce/prevent scarring, but these claims haven't been confirmed by scientific research.
Learn more about TocopherolSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 16.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 18.
Allantoin plays a role in soothing and moisturizing the skin. Because of this, it is often added to products with strong active ingredients.
Some studies have shown this ingredient can promote wound healing with higher concentrations.
Allantoin is derived from the comfrey plant but produced synthetically for cosmetic products to ensure purity.
Learn more about AllantoinSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 17.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 16.
Bisabolol is pimarily used to add fragrance to a product. However, it is also famous for helping soothe skin.
Bisabolol comes from German chamomile essential oil. Synthetic Bisabolol has been shown to be less effective.
Bisabolol helps soothe skin. It does this by blocking the inflammatory signals, helping to reduce your body's reaction to irritation.
Bisabolol also interferes with the process of hyperpigmentation. This can help with reducing dark spots and uneven tone.
Bisabolol is an antioxidant. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells. By fighting these free-radicals, Bisabolol may slow down signs of aging.
Studies have shown Bisabolol to have antimicrobial properties and may be a fungicide. These properties help preserve a product's shelf life.
Bisabolol also helps the absorption of other ingredients.
Learn more about BisabololSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 18.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 17.
We don't have a description for Peg-10.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 22.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 22.
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.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 23.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 20.
Chances are, you eat sodium chloride every day. Sodium Chloride is also known as table salt.
This ingredient has many purposes in skincare: thickener, emulsifier, and exfoliator.
You'll most likely find this ingredient in cleansers where it is used to create a gel-like texture. As an emulsifier, it also prevents ingredients from separating.
There is much debate on whether this ingredient is comedogenic. The short answer - comedogenic ratings don't tell the whole story. Learn more about comegodenic ratings here.
The concensus about this ingredient causing acne seems to be divided. Research is needed to understand if this ingredient does cause acne.
Scrubs may use salt as the primary exfoliating ingredient.
Learn more about Sodium ChlorideSkingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 24.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 19.
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is a chelating agent. Chelating agents help prevent metal ions from binding to other ingredients. This helps prevent unwanted effects and reactions from a product. These metal ions may come from water and are found in miniscule amounts.
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate can also help other preservatives be more effective.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ contains this as ingredient number 26.
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen contains this as ingredient number 21.
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these two products.
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ 30 ingredients
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen 22 ingredients
Usage
Here's some more info on how this product is used by our community.
When to use
Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++ 30 ingredients
Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen 22 ingredients
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Our Dupe Finder has found 50 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Skingredients Skin Shield Moisturizing + Priming SPF 50 PA+++.
See 50 alternativesOur Dupe Finder has found 30 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Living Koa Anti-Pollution SPF45+ Reef-safe sunscreen.
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