Below is every ingredient in La Mer Daily Sunscreen With Spf 50 50 Ml explained, its standout actives, and the side effects reported in research for those actives — analysed for Indian skin.
Flags derived from the ingredient list using dermatology reference data (fungal-acne substrate, comedogenicity, EU allergens). General guidance, not a diagnosis.
Answers are derived from the printed ingredient list and dermatology reference data — general guidance, not a diagnosis or a therapeutic claim.
Homosalate is an organic (chemical) sunscreen agent that primarily absorbs UVB radiation, helping protect skin from sunburn and UV-induced damage. It is often combined with other UV filters to provide broader and more stable photoprotection.
Octisalate (octyl salicylate) is an oil-soluble chemical UVB filter used at concentrations up to 5% to absorb ultraviolet radiation and help stabilize other sunscreen agents. It primarily protects against UVB wavelengths and is often combined with other filters for broad-spectrum coverage.
Octocrylene is an organic (chemical) UV filter that primarily absorbs UVB and short UVA radiation, and is also commonly used to stabilize other photolabile filters such as avobenzone. At 2.70% it serves as a sunscreen active and photostabilizer in cosmetic formulations.
Algae (seaweed) extract is a marine-derived ingredient used in skincare for its hydrating, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning properties, providing polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. It is commonly included to support moisture retention and soothe the skin.
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its content of vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidant compounds, primarily serving as a skin-conditioning and soothing agent. It is most often found in masks, exfoliating, and botanical-based formulations.
Copper gluconate is a copper salt of gluconic acid used in skincare as a source of copper, supporting antioxidant defense and enzymatic processes involved in collagen and elastin synthesis. It is often included in anti-aging and wound-supportive formulations.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contact irritation (mild stinging, redness) | Uncommon | Transient irritation, more likely on sensitive or compromised skin or near the eyes. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization to homosalate is infrequent but has been documented in patch-test studies. |
| Photoallergic/photocontact reaction | Rare | Reaction triggered or worsened by sun exposure; reported less often than with some other organic filters. |
| Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can cause watering or stinging if the product migrates into the eyes. |
| Potential endocrine activity | Very rare | In vitro and animal studies suggest possible weak hormonal activity; human relevance at topical use levels remains under regulatory review. |
| Mild skin irritation or stinging | Uncommon | Transient, more likely on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Photoallergic reaction | Very rare | Isolated case reports of UV-triggered allergic response. |
| Contact dermatitis / skin irritation | Uncommon | Localized redness, itching or stinging at the application site. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis / photoallergic reactions | Rare | Octocrylene is a recognized contact and photocontact allergen, more frequently reported in adults previously sensitized to ketoprofen. |
| Systemic absorption | Rare | Measurable percutaneous absorption has been detected in studies, though clinical significance remains unestablished. |
| Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional transient redness or stinging, more likely on compromised or sensitive skin. |
| Contact allergy / sensitization | Very rare | Rarely reported; salicylate derivatives can theoretically trigger sensitization in predisposed individuals. |
| Skin irritation | Rare | Mild transient irritation possible in sensitive individuals. |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction | Very rare | Silicones are generally considered low-allergenicity; reactions are uncommon. |
| Pore congestion/comedogenicity concerns | Very rare | Largely non-comedogenic and volatile, so buildup is minimal. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Homosalate 5.00% Key active UV filter (UVB absorber) | Homosalate is an organic (chemical) sunscreen agent that primarily absorbs UVB radiation, helping protect skin from sunburn and UV-induced damage. It is often combined with other UV filters to provide broader and more stable photoprotection. |
| Octisalate 5.00% Key active UV filter (chemical sunscreen) | Octisalate (octyl salicylate) is an oil-soluble chemical UVB filter used at concentrations up to 5% to absorb ultraviolet radiation and help stabilize other sunscreen agents. It primarily protects against UVB wavelengths and is often combined with other filters for broad-spectrum coverage. |
| Octocrylene 2.70% Key active UV filter (sunscreen) | Octocrylene is an organic (chemical) UV filter that primarily absorbs UVB and short UVA radiation, and is also commonly used to stabilize other photolabile filters such as avobenzone. At 2.70% it serves as a sunscreen active and photostabilizer in cosmetic formulations. |
| Butyloctyl Salicylate Emollient / UV filter solubilizer | Butyloctyl Salicylate is a lipophilic salicylate ester used in cosmetic formulations primarily as an emollient and as a solubilizer that enhances the dissolution and stability of organic UV filters in sunscreens. It also provides mild spreadability and a smooth skin feel. |
| Methyl Trimethicone Volatile silicone emollient/spreading agent | Methyl Trimethicone is a lightweight, volatile silicone used in skincare and cosmetics to provide smooth, non-greasy spreadability and a silky skin feel. It evaporates after application, leaving a dry, soft finish without significant residue. |
| Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate Emollient | Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate is a synthetic diester emollient used in skincare and cosmetics to provide a light, non-greasy skin feel and to soften and smooth the skin. It functions as a base/texture ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Aleurites Moluccana (Kukui) Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Aleurites Moluccana (Kukui) Seed Oil is a lightweight plant oil rich in linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids, used to soften skin, reinforce the skin barrier, and provide a non-greasy emollient feel. It is valued in moisturizers and after-sun products for its absorption and fatty acid profile. |
| Lauryl Peg-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone Emulsifier | Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone is a silicone-based surfactant and emulsifier used to stabilize water-in-silicone (W/Si) emulsions in cosmetic formulations. It helps create smooth, lightweight textures and is common in sunscreens, foundations, and color cosmetics. |
| Peg-100 Stearate Emulsifier/surfactant | PEG-100 Stearate is a polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid used as a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier to stabilize oil-in-water formulations and improve skin feel. It functions as a formulation base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Butylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Butylene glycol is a small diol commonly used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-reducing agent that helps dissolve other ingredients and improve skin feel. It is widely regarded as safe and non-sensitizing for the majority of users at cosmetic concentrations. |
| Glyceryl Stearate Emulsifier/emollient | Glyceryl Stearate is a glycerol ester of stearic acid widely used as a non-ionic emulsifier and emollient to stabilize oil-in-water formulations and improve skin feel. It functions as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Dipentaerythrityl Tri-Polyhydroxystearate Emollient/skin-conditioning agent | Dipentaerythrityl Tri-Polyhydroxystearate is an ester-based emollient and thickening agent used to impart spreadability, moisturization, and a smooth skin feel in cosmetic formulations such as creams, lipsticks, and color cosmetics. It functions primarily as a base/texture ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Potassium Cetyl Phosphate Emulsifier | Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic emulsifier and surfactant used in oil-in-water formulations to stabilize emulsions and improve texture. It is considered a formulation/base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Algae (Seaweed) Extract Key active Conditioning/antioxidant | Algae (seaweed) extract is a marine-derived ingredient used in skincare for its hydrating, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning properties, providing polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. It is commonly included to support moisture retention and soothe the skin. |
| Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil is a plant-derived emollient rich in fatty acids (oleic and linoleic acid) and antioxidants like sesamol and sesamin, used to soften skin and reinforce the skin barrier. It is commonly employed as an occlusive and carrier oil in moisturizers, massage oils, and emulsions. |
| Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder Key active Skin conditioning / antioxidant | Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its content of vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidant compounds, primarily serving as a skin-conditioning and soothing agent. It is most often found in masks, exfoliating, and botanical-based formulations. |
| Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Cake Exfoliant/absorbent | Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Cake is the powdered residue remaining after oil is expressed from sunflower seeds. It is used in skincare primarily as a natural abrasive in scrubs and as a bulking or absorbent agent. |
| Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Leaf Oil Fragrance/essential oil | Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil is a volatile plant-derived essential oil rich in 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), used in skincare as a fragrance, masking agent, and for its purported antimicrobial and refreshing properties. It is a known source of fragrance allergens and can be irritating, particularly on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Sodium Gluconate Chelating agent / skin-conditioning | Sodium gluconate is the sodium salt of gluconic acid used in skincare primarily as a chelating agent to bind metal ions and stabilize formulations, with secondary humectant and skin-conditioning properties. It is generally considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Copper Gluconate Key active Skin-conditioning / antioxidant trace mineral | Copper gluconate is a copper salt of gluconic acid used in skincare as a source of copper, supporting antioxidant defense and enzymatic processes involved in collagen and elastin synthesis. It is often included in anti-aging and wound-supportive formulations. |
| Calcium Gluconate Buffering/skin-conditioning agent | Calcium gluconate is a calcium salt of gluconic acid used in topical formulations as a source of calcium, a buffering agent, and a skin-conditioning ingredient. It is also notably used medically as an antidote gel for hydrofluoric acid burns. |
| Magnesium Gluconate Mineral salt / skin-conditioning agent | Magnesium gluconate is the magnesium salt of gluconic acid used in skincare as a source of magnesium and as a skin-conditioning and humectant-supporting agent. It can help support skin barrier function and is sometimes included for its mild soothing properties. |
| Zinc Gluconate Key active Sebum regulator / anti-inflammatory | Zinc gluconate is a zinc salt of gluconic acid used topically and orally for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and sebum-regulating properties, often in acne and oily-skin formulations. It supplies bioavailable zinc that supports skin barrier function and wound healing. |
| Tocopheryl Succinate Key active Antioxidant | Tocopheryl Succinate is a stable ester form of vitamin E (tocopherol) used in skincare for its antioxidant properties, helping protect skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage. It is converted to active tocopherol upon skin penetration, though its conversion efficiency in topical applications is debated. |
| Niacin Key active Vitamin B3 (cell-energy/barrier support) | Niacin is a form of vitamin B3 that supports cellular energy metabolism and skin barrier function; in topical skincare it is often used interchangeably with or converted to niacinamide. It may improve skin hydration and tone when formulated appropriately. |
| Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder Exfoliant / absorbent | Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder is a finely ground botanical material derived from sesame seeds, used in skincare primarily as a physical exfoliant and texturizing agent in scrubs and cleansing formulations. It can also contribute mild oil-absorbing and bulking properties. |
| Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract Key active Antioxidant / soothing emollient | Laminaria ochroleuca extract is derived from a brown algae (sea kelp) rich in polysaccharides, fatty acids, and antioxidants. It is used in skincare for its soothing, antioxidant, and skin-barrier-supporting properties. |
| Malachite Key active Antioxidant/mineral colorant | Malachite is a copper carbonate mineral used in skincare for its copper content, which is promoted as an antioxidant and detoxifying ingredient, and it also imparts a green tint to formulations. Evidence for significant topical benefit is limited, and it functions partly as a colorant and partly as a claimed active. |
| Caffeine Key active Antioxidant / vasoconstrictor | Caffeine is a topical active used in skincare for its antioxidant properties and ability to constrict blood vessels, which may temporarily reduce puffiness and the appearance of under-eye darkness. It is also studied for reducing localized fluid retention and protecting against UV-induced oxidative stress. |
| Sorbitol Humectant | Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used in skincare as a humectant and texture enhancer, drawing moisture into the skin and improving product spreadability. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant / hydrator | Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin to improve hydration and surface plumpness. Its lower molecular weight allows better penetration than native hyaluronic acid. |
| Cetyl Alcohol Emollient / emulsifier | Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used in skincare and cosmetics as an emollient, thickener, and emulsion stabilizer. It softens skin and helps maintain the consistency and texture of creams and lotions. |
| Stearic Acid Emulsifier / thickener | Stearic acid is a saturated long-chain fatty acid widely used in cosmetics as an emulsifier, thickening agent, and emollient to stabilize creams and lotions. It is generally considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Vp/Eicosene Copolymer Film-former / binder | VP/Eicosene Copolymer is a synthetic copolymer of vinylpyrrolidone and eicosene used in cosmetics as a film-forming agent, binder, and emulsion stabilizer. It improves water resistance and wear of products like sunscreens, color cosmetics, and lip products. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative booster / skin-conditioning agent | Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional glyceryl ether used in cosmetics primarily as a preservative-enhancing agent and emollient, often paired with phenoxyethanol to broaden antimicrobial efficacy. It also acts as a deodorizing agent and humectant in skincare formulations. |
| Saccharide Isomerate Humectant / moisturizer | Saccharide Isomerate is a plant-derived carbohydrate complex that binds to the skin's keratin to provide long-lasting hydration and improve moisture retention. It is structurally similar to carbohydrates naturally found in the skin's upper layers. |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a lightweight emollient derived from coconut or palm oil and glycerin, used to soften skin, improve spreadability, and act as a solvent for oil-soluble ingredients. It is well-tolerated and serves primarily as a base ingredient rather than an active. |
| Caprylyl Glycol Humectant / skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster | Caprylyl glycol is a multifunctional emollient and humectant derived from caprylic acid that helps hydrate skin and enhance the efficacy of preservatives in formulations. It is widely used as a stabilizing and conditioning base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer Thickener/stabilizer | Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a synthetic acrylic copolymer used in skincare to thicken, gel, and stabilize emulsions, providing viscosity control and a smooth texture. It functions as a rheology modifier and film former rather than a biologically active treatment ingredient. |
| Dehydroxanthan Gum Thickener / stabilizer | Dehydroxanthan gum is a modified xanthan gum derivative used as a rheology modifier and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It provides a light, non-tacky texture and helps suspend and emulsify ingredients in water-based products. |
| Sodium Dehydroacetate Preservative | Sodium dehydroacetate is the sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative to inhibit growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in cosmetic and skincare formulations. It is most effective in slightly acidic to neutral pH ranges. |
| Citric Acid pH adjuster / AHA exfoliant | Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from citrus fruits, used primarily to adjust and buffer formulation pH and as a chelating agent, and at higher concentrations as a mild chemical exfoliant. It can promote surface cell turnover and is sometimes included in antioxidant or brightening products. |
| Tourmaline Mineral additive / abrasive-energizing agent | Tourmaline is a naturally occurring crystalline boron silicate mineral added to skincare and cosmetics, often used as a physical exfoliant or as a marketing-driven ingredient claimed to emit far-infrared radiation and negative ions. Robust clinical evidence supporting its functional skin benefits is limited. |
| Styrene/Acrylates C Opacifying agent / film former | Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer is a synthetic polymer used in cosmetic formulations primarily as an opacifying agent and to create an opaque or pearlescent appearance in rinse-off and leave-on products. It also functions as a film-forming agent and can help suspend particles within a formula. |
Key active = does the main work. Ingredient explanations are drawn from public databases & literature.
Peer-reviewed papers on the active ingredients in this product, via PubMed.