Sun protect & refresh

Name: NIVEA Sun protect & refresh
Brand: NIVEA

spf

Overall score6.5

NIVEA Sun protect & refresh scores 6.5/9.8 overall. It ranks highest in low irritation risk (9.2) and ingredient transparency (8.8).

✶ Hero ingredients

#3Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

UV protection

#4Ethylhexyl Salicylate

Octisalate — UVB filter

#5Octocrylene

Chemical UV filter and stabiliser

Score breakdown

Overall

6.5

Hydration Efficacy4.9

Irritation Risk9.2

Active Ingredient Strength2.0

Ingredient Transparency8.8

Formulation Safety7.6

Estimated — based on ingredient analysis. Scores refine as user reviews are added.

Scores last verified: April 2026

What makes NIVEA Sun protect & refresh stand out

NIVEA Sun protect & refresh is a solid spf with an overall score of 6.5/9.8. it delivers a well-rounded formulation that balances efficacy with gentleness. The formula leads with Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Octocrylene — ingredients that support the skin barrier and moisture levels.

It performs well on low irritation risk (9.2). On the flip side, hydration could be stronger and active ingredient concentration is on the lighter side.

Is this right for you?

Great for

✓Sensitive skin — low irritation risk with a gentle formulation
✓Safety-conscious shoppers — clean formulation with minimal flags
✓Ingredient-aware buyers — transparent, well-documented formula

May not suit

⚠Very dry skin types looking for heavy-duty moisture
⚠Those seeking potent actives — this leans more maintenance than treatment

Key ingredients

✶
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
UV protection — #3 in the INCI list
✶
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
UV protection — #4 in the INCI list
✶
Octocrylene
UV protection — #5 in the INCI list
✶
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
UV protection — #9 in the INCI list
✶
Glycerin
Draws in moisture — #12 in the INCI list

Full ingredient list

30 ingredients — listed in INCI order (highest concentration first)

Compare with similar products

Ingredient breakdown

Other ingredient10
Added scent8
UV protection4
Holds the formula together3
Keeps the product fresh2
Draws in moisture1
Works on your skin1
Softens and smooths1

Some links on this site are affiliate links. We may earn a commission from purchases made through our links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Gracie free and independent.