Supergoop Glow Screen Review – Will It Add Instant Glow To The Skin?

Supergoop Glowscreen is a tinted chemical suncream with the added promise of being more than just a sun cream. The brand promises it’s a multi-tasking product with broad-spectrum SPF 40, luminous makeup primer, all-day hydration, skin-tone evening and blue light filtering ingredients in one daily product.

The formula includes FDA-approved sunscreen filters and skincare active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, cocoa peptides, panthenol (vitamin B5), ferulic acid and vitamin E, which leave skin looking radiant, shielding from UV rays and keeping it hydrated all day, the company claims.

But are the amounts of the ingredients in the skin care products the same as the concentrations of ingredients used in published studies? Do cocoa peptides provide significant benefit in skin protection from blue light? Has the entire Glowscreen formula been tested and published in clinical studies? But what do consumers need to understand about claims related to hydration, blue-light protection and makeup-priming?

Let’s take a look at the ingredients of Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40, what scientific evidence there is to back up each of the ingredients, what claims the product makes in its advertising and compare it to other popular facial sunscreen brands like DRMTLGY Broad Spectrum SPF 45.

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Supergoop Glowscreen Ingredient Analysis

Supergoop Glowscreen contains three FDA-approved sunscreen filters and a variety of moisturizing, antioxidant and cosmetic ingredients that enhance the skin’s look.

It contains the following active ingredients for sunscreen:

• Avobenzone 3%
• Octisalate 5%
• Octocrylene 10%

The formula also features a number of highlighted skin care ingredients such as:

• Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)
• Niacinamide
• Cocoa Peptides (Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract)
• Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
• Ferulic Acid
• Glycerin

One of the best features of the formula is that it contains one of the most popular UVA filters that’s approved in the U.S. and that’s Avobenzone. An NIH study shows Avobenzone protects against long-wave UVA radiation, which can cause skin changes and premature ageing.^[1] The two main ingredients are Octisalate and Octocrylene, with Octocrylene also helping to stop Avobenzone from breaking down when exposed to sunlight.

Unlike many cosmetic products, the concentrations of these sunscreen filters are publicly disclosed because sunscreen products are regulated as over-the-counter drugs in the United States.

Sodium Hyaluronate is a smaller molecule version of the hyaluronic acid that is found in many skin care formulations. Clinical studies tell us that topical HA can increase skin hydration and temporarily increase skin smoothness and softness. These effects, however, are dependent upon molecular weight, formulation, concentration, and frequency of application.^[2]

The product also features one of the most studied cosmetic ingredients, Niacinamide. Niacinamide is known to have beneficial effects on the skin barrier, moisturization, and a PubMed study also shows that it helps in reduction of pigmentation and skin texture when used consistently^[3]. Many clinical studies tested concentrations between 2% and 5% however, Supergoop doesn’t specify what percentage of niacinamide is used in Glowscreen.

The company relates the other ingredient of the highlight to blue-light protection: Cocoa Peptides (Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract). Cocoa polyphenols have antioxidant properties and research indicates that antioxidants can lower visible light induced oxidative stress.^[4] There is, however, still relatively little direct evidence to show that topical cocoa peptides are effective to filter the blue light in regular cosmetic applications.

Other ingredients in the formula include panthenol (vitamin B5), vitamin E and ferulic acid, which are frequently added to moisturizers and an antioxidant serum. The ingredients can support the skin barrier and lower the oxidative stress resulting from environmental exposures.

Overall, Supergoop Glowscreen uses several familiar skin care ingredients in a clear ingredient statement along with some well-recognized sun protection ingredients. The actives used in the sunscreen products are fully identified, but the percentage of the active ingredients present in the sunscreen products is not available, making comparisons with published clinical tests more difficult.

Scientific Evidence

With a combination of broad-spectrum SPF 40 UV filters, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, cocoa-derived antioxidants, panthenol, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 is promoted to prevent skin damage, to hydrate, radiate, and leave skin smoother.

Many of the individual ingredients have been investigated thoroughly, but we could not find any published study on the entire Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 formula.

This difference matters.

Even if studies have shown the benefits of sunscreen filters, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or antioxidant ingredients, this does not guarantee the same benefits in the product. Topical sunscreens are only effective if they contain the correct ingredients and are applied correctly and if they remain effective throughout the day.

For example:

• In clinical studies, application of high SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen in adequate amounts and reapplication throughout the day have been found to be effective in decreasing the rate of skin damage and photoaging caused by the sun’s UV radiation. Those benefits are however dependent on the way it’s used and not the cosmetic qualities or skin care additives^[5].
• A Cleveland Clinic study shows that topically applied hyaluronic acid has been known to increase skin hydration and temporarily smooth the surface of the skin^[6]. The effectiveness, however, is influenced by molecular weight, concentration and formulation. Comparisons with clinical studies are limited as Supergoop does not state how much sodium hyaluronate is in Glowscreen.
• Research shows niacinamide has been shown to have potential skin barrier modifying activity, moisturizing effects, and a wound healing effect on the skin when applied regularly^[7].The concentration used in Glowscreen, however, is not revealed.
• An NIH study suggests that antioxidants found in cocoa can help lower the oxidative stress resulting from exposure to visible light, while there is a limited amount of evidence that cocoa peptides in commercial skin care products may be effective as blue-light filters.^[8]

The science behind Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 is therefore based on standardized SPF testing for its sunscreen protection and ingredient-level research for its additional skincare benefits, rather than published clinical studies evaluating the finished commercial product.

Marketing Claims That Need More Context

Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 provides a range of broad spectrum sun protection filters along with moisturizing and cosmetic ingredients that can help maintain healthy skin appearance. But some of its marketing claims do not yet have the supporting evidence for the finished product. Some of the individual ingredients may have scientific evidence, but others benefit from further product-specific clinical data.

“Helps Filter Blue Light”

Supergoop states that Glowscreen helps filter blue light using cocoa peptides and antioxidant ingredients.

Antioxidants found in cocoa could have a beneficial effect in reducing oxidative stress resulting from the presence of visible light, according to laboratory studies. But, there is not a lot of clinical data to confirm the topical cocoa peptides’ useful prevention of blue light or skin damage in real-world use.

Most dermatologists agree that ultraviolet (UV) radiation remains a much more significant contributor to skin aging than blue light from digital devices. While antioxidant ingredients may provide additional support against environmental stressors, we believe the blue-light claim would be stronger if supported by controlled clinical studies using the finished Glowscreen formula.

“All-Day Hydration”

The product is marketed as providing all-day hydration.

The formula contains several moisturizing ingredients, including glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, panthenol, and niacinamide, all of which have individually been shown to support skin hydration and strengthen the skin barrier.

But the level of hydration may change depending on the skin type, the climate, the type of cleanser you use and on the amount of product applied. Unfortunately,we didn’t find any published clinical trial in which hydration levels were measured throughout the day with Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 itself.

In our opinion, the hydration claim is supported by the ingredient profile, although the duration of “all-day” hydration has not been publicly demonstrated for the finished product.

“Glowy Primer”

Supergoop promotes Glowscreen as both a sunscreen and a makeup primer.

The formulation contains silicones, emollients, and light-reflecting pigments that can create a smoother surface for makeup while leaving a luminous finish. Many users may find that the product performs well under foundation or can be worn alone for a dewy appearance.

But, the performance of the primer is largely subjective and depends on the individual, skin type and make up used. However, the finish can be a bit shiny for the oily skin or shine for the dry and normal skin.

We believe Glowscreen functions as both a sunscreen and cosmetic primer, but the overall experience will vary from person to person.

“Visibly Evens Skin Tone”

The brand also states that Glowscreen visibly evens skin tone.

The tinted pigments can provide an immediate brightening effect by diffusing light across the skin, while niacinamide has been studied for improving the appearance of uneven pigmentation over time.

However, the product is not designed to treat hyperpigmentation or dark spots in the same way as dedicated brightening treatments containing higher concentrations of ingredients such as hydroquinone, retinoids, azelaic acid, or prescription therapies.

In our opinion, consumers should view this claim as referring primarily to temporary cosmetic improvement together with the potential long-term benefits of niacinamide, rather than expecting significant correction of existing pigmentation.

Our Verdict on the Marketing Claims

Several of Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40’s claims are backed by proven skin care principles. The product offers regulated broad spectrum SPF 40, and contains ingredients that could help support hydration, antioxidants and healthier looking complexion.

Claims on blue-light filtering, all day hydration and visible skin improvement are based mainly on claims that have been made for the ingredients themselves, and not based on published clinical studies of the final commercial formula.

We found no peer-reviewed clinical trial assessing Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 itself. Moreover, the concentrations of its active ingredients, which are used in skin care products, is not indicated, which makes it difficult to make direct comparisons to published research.

We recommend viewing Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 as a broad-spectrum sunscreen with added skincare and cosmetic benefits rather than expecting it to function as a dedicated blue-light shield, intensive moisturizer, or treatment for uneven pigmentation.

Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 Vs. Popular Supplement

DRMTLGY Broad Spectrum SPF 45

DRMTLGY Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is a broad spectrum zinc oxide based sunscreen with 12% zinc oxide and 7.5% octinoxate that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and with skin care benefits. The formula contains niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate and hydrating ingredients that can assist the skin barrier, boost skin hydration and diminish the presence of fine lines. DRMTLGY’s lightweight, oil-free formula is designed to provide sun protection, hydration, and anti-aging benefits, rather than just a brightening effect.

Compared with Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40, DRMTLGY Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is more about long-lasting sun protection and skin barrier support rather than providing a glow and makeup-priming effect. Supergoop merges chemical UV filters with light-reflecting pigments to achieve a dewy look, DRMTLGY features a hybrid mineral-chemical sun protection system with niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate emphasizing hydration and overall skin health. Supergoop is great for consumers who want a makeup-ready option that will glow while they’re putting it on, while DRMTLGY Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is ideal for those who want a simpler sunscreen that provides moisturizing and anti-aging benefits.

Winner: DRMTLGY Broad Spectrum SPF 45

Pros and Cons of Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40

• Provides broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection using FDA-approved UV filters
• Combines sunscreen with ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, vitamin E, and ferulic acid
• Can be used as both a facial sunscreen and a makeup primer
• Complete ingredient list and active sunscreen filter percentages are disclosed

• Concentrations of the featured skincare ingredients are not disclosed
• No published clinical trials evaluating the finished Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 formula
• Many skincare claims are supported primarily by ingredient-level research rather than product-specific studies
• Blue-light protection claims have limited published clinical evidence
• Radiant finish may not appeal to individuals who prefer a natural or matte look
• Does not replace dedicated treatments for concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne, or established photoaging
• Requires generous application and regular reapplication to achieve labeled SPF protection
• Higher price point than many comparable facial sunscreens

Final Verdict

Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 is formulated with ingredients that have been individually studied for their benefits in skin hydration, antioxidant protection and skin barrier health including broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection alongside niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, vitamin E, ferulic acid and cocoa-based antioxidants.

However, we found no published clinical trials evaluating the finished Supergoop. Many of the other skin-care benefits of Glowscreen SPF 40 formula are based in part on research carried out at the level of the individual ingredient.

The SPF protection is backed by standardized sunscreen testing, whereas blue light protection and longer hydration would be aided by evidence from clinical trials of a specific product.

Overall, Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 is a good choice for people who want a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides extra skin care benefits with a radiant, makeup-ready feel, but should not be considered a substitute for targeted skin care.

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Health Insiders Team

The Health Insiders Team takes pride in bringing you the latest in nutritional research, skincare, healthy living, and wellness hacks. Together our researchers, journalists, dermatologists, and health experts have decades of pertinent experience generating and editing content for Health Insiders. [Read Full Bio]

Reviewed by Mary Larijani, M.D.

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