Bioderma Photoderm Max Spf 50 Cream 40ml

Common questions

Is Bioderma Photoderm Max Spf 50 Cream 40ml healthy?

Bioderma Photoderm Max Spf 50 Cream 40ml scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This sunscreen contains a mix of chemical UV filters, including homosalate, which has raised concerns due to potential hormone disruption and degradation in sunlight.

Which ingredients drive Bioderma Photoderm Max Spf 50 Cream 40ml's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Glycerin count in its favor; Homosalate is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Bioderma Photoderm Max Spf 50 Cream 40ml

60 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 8
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Sunscreen
Summary

This sunscreen contains a mix of chemical UV filters, including homosalate, which has raised concerns due to potential hormone disruption and degradation in sunlight. However, it also includes beneficial ingredients like titanium dioxide, a mineral UV filter, and moisturizing agents such as glycerin and tocopherol. The presence of both chemical and mineral filters, along with some synthetic components, results in a moderate processing level.

Key ingredients 35

Ectoin
Very Good

Ectoin is a natural compound known for its protective and moisturizing properties. It helps to stabilize cell membranes and protect the skin from environmental stress. It is considered safe and beneficial for sensitive skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with ectoin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to protect the skin from environmental stress and maintain hydration.

Tocopherol
Very Good

Tocopherol, or Vitamin E, is an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from free radical damage. It is commonly used in skincare products for its protective and moisturizing properties. It is well-tolerated by most skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with tocopherol, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to protect the skin from oxidative stress and maintain skin hydration.

See more about Tocopherol →
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Very Good

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, or sunflower seed oil, is a natural oil rich in fatty acids and vitamins. It helps to moisturize and nourish the skin. It is well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this oil, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to moisturize and nourish the skin, improving the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil →
Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract
Very Good

Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract is a marine extract known for its soothing and protective properties. It helps to calm and protect the skin from environmental stress. It is considered safe and beneficial for sensitive skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to soothe and protect the skin from environmental stress, improving skin health.

Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Good

This is a broad-spectrum UV filter that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It is photostable and does not degrade in sunlight, making it a reliable choice for sunscreens. It is approved for use in many countries and is considered safe.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It offers strong and stable protection against UV radiation, helping to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

Ethylhexyl Triazone
Good

Ethylhexyl Triazone is a highly effective UVB filter used in sunscreens. It is known for its high photostability and ability to provide long-lasting sun protection. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It offers strong and stable protection against UVB radiation, helping to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

Glycerin
Good

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is a common ingredient in skincare products due to its effectiveness and safety. It is well-tolerated by most skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to maintain skin hydration and improve the skin's barrier function.

See more about Glycerin →
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Good

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is an emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. It helps to moisturize and soften the skin. It is well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to moisturize and soften the skin, improving the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride →
Aqua
Neutral

Aqua, or water, is commonly used as a solvent in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetic products.

Benefits

Water helps in hydrating the skin and acts as a carrier for other beneficial ingredients.

See more about Aqua →
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Neutral

This is a chemical UV filter used to protect the skin from UVA rays. It is considered stable and effective in sunscreen formulations. However, it is not widely studied compared to other UV filters.

Risks

Potential risks include skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides effective UVA protection, which is crucial for preventing skin aging and damage.

See more about Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate →
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Neutral

Diisopropyl Sebacate is an emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin. It is used to improve the texture and spreadability of cosmetic products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It enhances the sensory feel of the product, making it more pleasant to apply.

See more about Diisopropyl Sebacate →
Dibutyl Adipate
Neutral

Dibutyl Adipate is used as a plasticizer and emollient in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It enhances the sensory feel of the product, making it more pleasant to apply.

Propanediol
Neutral

Propanediol is a glycol used as a solvent and skin-conditioning agent. It is derived from corn sugar and is considered a safer alternative to propylene glycol. It is generally well-tolerated by the skin.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to hydrate the skin and improve the texture of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Propanediol →
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Neutral

Ethylhexyl Salicylate is a chemical UV filter that absorbs UVB rays. It is commonly used in sunscreens to prevent sunburn. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations.

Risks

Potential risks include skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It provides effective UVB protection, which is crucial for preventing sunburn.

See more about Ethylhexyl Salicylate →
Silica
Neutral

Silica is used in cosmetics as an absorbent and anti-caking agent. It helps to improve the texture and finish of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with silica, though inhalation of fine particles should be avoided.

Benefits

It helps to control oil and improve the texture of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Silica →
Titanium Dioxide
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though inhalation of fine particles should be avoided.

Benefits

It offers strong and stable protection against UV radiation, helping to prevent sunburn and skin damage.

See more about Titanium Dioxide →
Sucrose Laurate
Neutral

Sucrose Laurate is an emulsifier and surfactant used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize emulsions and improve the texture of products. It is derived from sugar and is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

Undecane
Neutral

Undecane is a hydrocarbon used as an emollient and solvent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It enhances the sensory feel of the product, making it more pleasant to apply.

C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate
Neutral

C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate is used as an emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize emulsions and improve the texture of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Neutral

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is an emulsifier and surfactant used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize emulsions and improve the texture of products. It is derived from amino acids and is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate →
C20-22 Alcohols
Neutral

C20-22 Alcohols are fatty alcohols used as emollients and thickeners in cosmetic formulations. They help to improve the texture and spreadability of products. They are generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with these alcohols, though they may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

They enhance the sensory feel of the product, making it more pleasant to apply.

Sodium Polyacrylate
Neutral

Sodium Polyacrylate is a thickening agent and film-former used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and stability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Sodium Polyacrylate →
Tridecane
Neutral

Tridecane is a hydrocarbon used as an emollient and solvent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It enhances the sensory feel of the product, making it more pleasant to apply.

Capryloyl Glycine
Neutral

Capryloyl Glycine is an amino acid derivative used as a skin-conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and feel of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations.

Sodium Hydroxide
Neutral

Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is a strong base and must be used in small amounts to avoid irritation. It is generally considered safe when used appropriately.

Risks

In high concentrations, it can cause skin irritation and burns.

Benefits

It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of cosmetic formulations by adjusting pH.

See more about Sodium Hydroxide →
Sodium Citrate
Neutral

Sodium Citrate is used as a buffering agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps to maintain the pH balance of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of cosmetic formulations by adjusting pH.

See more about Sodium Citrate →
Caprylyl Glycol
Neutral

Caprylyl Glycol is a skin-conditioning agent and preservative used in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and feel of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations and has antimicrobial properties.

See more about Caprylyl Glycol →
Mannitol
Neutral

Mannitol is a sugar alcohol used as a humectant and moisturizer in cosmetics. It helps to attract moisture to the skin and improve hydration. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with mannitol, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to maintain skin hydration and improve the texture of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Mannitol →
Xylitol
Neutral

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as a humectant and moisturizer in cosmetics. It helps to attract moisture to the skin and improve hydration. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with xylitol, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to maintain skin hydration and improve the texture of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Xylitol →
Rhamnose
Neutral

Rhamnose is a sugar used as a skin-conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and feel of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with rhamnose, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations.

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Neutral

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate is a mild surfactant used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to cleanse the skin and improve the texture of products. It is derived from amino acids and is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to cleanse the skin gently and improve the texture of cosmetic formulations.

Lysine
Neutral

Lysine is an amino acid used as a skin-conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and feel of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with lysine, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Lysine →
Magnesium Chloride
Neutral

Magnesium Chloride is used as a stabilizer and thickener in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and stability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with magnesium chloride, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It helps to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

See more about Magnesium Chloride →
Fructooligosaccharides
Neutral

Fructooligosaccharides are prebiotics used in cosmetics to support skin health. They help to nourish beneficial skin bacteria and improve skin texture. They are generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with fructooligosaccharides, though they may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

They help to support the skin's microbiome and improve skin texture.

Homosalate
Very Bad

Homosalate is a chemical UV filter that absorbs UVB rays. It is commonly used in sunscreens but has raised concerns due to potential hormone disruption. It is also known to degrade in sunlight, reducing its effectiveness.

Risks

Homosalate may disrupt hormone function and has been found to accumulate in the body over time.

Benefits

It helps protect the skin from sunburn by absorbing UVB radiation.

See more about Homosalate →

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