Independently Tested at CCFT Laboratories
Clinical Report: Illuminate+ Dewy Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ with Wild Berries & Alpha Arbutin
Validated by independent certificates covering in-vivo SPF efficacy, anti-pollution defense, photostability, and blue light protection. Testing conducted at CCFT Laboratories.
At a Glance
| In-Vivo SPF | In-Vitro SPF | PA Rating | Critical Wavelength | Boots Star | Photostability | Anti-Pollution |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
52.030 (Very High UVB Defense) |
56.24 (Consistent Lab Measurement) |
PA++++ (Maximum UVA Coverage) |
381 nm (Exceptional Broad-Spectrum Coverage) |
*** (Good UVA-to-UVB Ratio) |
6 Hours (Stable UV Filter Performance) |
80.1% (Protection Against Urban Pollutants) |
The Illuminate+ Dewy Sunscreen has been independently tested for solar protection efficacy, environmental defense, and photostability. Results from all studies are documented in full below.
1. Study Overview & Design
| Study Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Study Titles | 1. Sunscreen Efficacy Study (CTRI/2025/02/079848) 2. Anti-Pollution Study (CCFT-2025-01-860H) 3. Photostability Study (28-04-2025) |
| Specific Parameters Measured | SPF, UVA-PF, PA Rating, Critical Wavelength, Boots Star Rating, Broad Spectrum Classification, Photostability, Anti-pollution protection, Blue Light Protection. |
| Why These Parameters Matter | Comprehensive sun protection requires verified defense across UVB and UVA wavelengths. Environmental protection extends beyond UV to include pollution particles (PM 2.5) and reactive oxygen species. Photostability ensures the product maintains its protective capacity over time when exposed to sunlight. |
| Study Types | In-vivo and in-vitro sunscreen efficacy evaluation, Anti-pollution cellular study, Photostability testing. |
| Testing Methods | ISO 24444:2019 (In-vivo SPF), COLIPA Guideline (In-vitro SPF, UVA-PF, Broad Spectrum). |
| Specific Product Studied | Aqualogica Illuminate + Dewy Sunscreen (exact commercial formulation). |
| Product Connection | The formulation combines six UV filters with Alpha Arbutin, Wild Berries Extract, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ceramides. This delivers very high broad-spectrum protection (SPF 52.030, PA++++), 80.1% anti-pollution defense, and blue light protection. |
2. Claim Substantiation Matrix
| Claim | Certificate | Evidence | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPF 50+ | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | In-vivo SPF 52.030 - ISO 24444:2019 | Supported |
| PA++++ | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | PA++++ rating - COLIPA Guideline | Supported |
| In-Vivo Tested | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | ISO 24444:2019 in-vivo study on human participants | Supported |
| Broad Spectrum | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | Critical Wavelength 381 nm - exceeds 370 nm threshold | Supported |
| Photostable | Photostability Certificate | Stable for up to 6 hours under test conditions | Supported |
| Anti-Pollution | Anti-Pollution Study | Protects from pollution damage by 80.1% - CCFT-2025-01-860H | Supported |
| Blue Light Protection | Claim Sheet | Confirmed protection against High Energy Visible (HEV) light | Supported |
| CTRI Registered | Clinical Trials Registry | CTRI/2025/02/079848 - registered 03/02/2025 | Verified |
3. Sunscreen Efficacy Study - CCFT Laboratories, February 2025
Category: Efficacy
3.1 Study Parameters & Rationale
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Parameters | UVB protection (SPF), UVA protection (UVA-PF, PA Rating), spectral coverage (Critical Wavelength), Boots Star Rating, broad spectrum classification. |
| Why This Matters | International sunscreen regulations require standardized testing to verify labeled SPF claims and UVA protection levels. In-vivo testing on human participants under ISO 24444:2019 is the gold standard for SPF determination. In-vitro testing under COLIPA guidelines provides complementary data on UVA protection and broad spectrum coverage. |
3.2 Lab, Date, Standards and Registration
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Tested | Aqualogica Illuminate + Dewy Sunscreen |
| Sponsor / Brand Owner | Honasa Consumer Limited |
| Testing Laboratory | CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Meerut |
| Lab Certifications | ISO 9001:2015, ISO 45001:2015, OECD GLP Compliant |
| Lab Classification | FIST Centre - Dept. of Science & Technology, Govt. of India |
| CTRI Registration No. | CTRI/2025/02/079848 |
| Registration Date | 03 February 2025 |
| Date of Issue | 26 February 2025 |
| In-Vivo Test Method | ISO 24444:2019 |
| In-Vivo SPF Result | 52.030 |
| In-Vitro Test Method | COLIPA Guideline |
| In-Vitro SPF Result | 56.24 |
| PA Rating | PA++++ |
| Critical Wavelength | 381 nm |
| Boots Star Rating | *** |
| Broad Spectrum Protection | Yes |
| Signed By | Nidhi Dixit, Clinical Research Associate, CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd |
3.3 Test Results
| Outcome | Result | Clinical Classification |
|---|---|---|
| SPF (In-Vivo) | 52.030 | Very high protection - top tier of SPF scale |
| SPF (In-Vitro) | 56.24 | Confirms formulation consistency across test methods |
| PA Rating | PA++++ | Highest achievable tier - requires UVA-PF of 16 or above |
| Critical Wavelength | 381 nm | Exceptional - well into UVA-I range, significantly above 370 nm threshold |
| Boots Star Rating | *** | Good UVA protection - UVA to UVB protection ratio of 60-80% |
| Broad Spectrum | Yes | Protection verified across both UVB and UVA wavelengths |
3.4 Clinical Interpretation of Results
| Metric | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| SPF 52.030 (In-Vivo) | Under standardized lab conditions per ISO 24444:2019, the product demonstrated approximately 52 times more protection against UVB-induced skin damage compared to unprotected skin. This result classifies the product as SPF 50+, the highest tier on the international SPF scale. |
| SPF 56.24 (In-Vitro) | The in-vitro result of 56.24, measured using the COLIPA guideline optical method, aligns closely with the in-vivo result of 52.030. This close alignment indicates strong formulation consistency and reliable performance. |
| PA++++ | PA++++ is the highest category in the PA (Protection Grade of UVA) rating system. It requires a UVA-PF of 16 or above, signifying very high defense against UVA rays responsible for tanning, photoaging, and deep skin damage. |
| Critical Wavelength 381 nm | Critical wavelength measures the point up to which 90% of a sunscreen's UV absorbance is distributed. The international threshold for broad spectrum classification is 370 nm. At 381 nm, this product exceeds that threshold by 11 nm, confirming exceptional coverage extending deep into the UVA-I range. |
| Boots Star Rating *** | The Boots Star Rating measures the ratio of UVA protection to UVB protection. Three stars indicates a good UVA-to-UVB ratio (60-80%), meaning the formula provides balanced defense without over-indexing on UVB at the expense of UVA. |
4. Anti-Pollution Study - CCFT Laboratories, 2025
Category: Environmental Protection
4.1 Study Parameters & Rationale
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Report Number | CCFT-2025-01-860H |
| Study Type | Anti-Pollution Study on keratinocytes |
| Primary Parameters | Protection from pollution damage, PM 2.5 damage, Environmental Reactive Oxygen Species (Ozone, Hydroxyl Radical, Peroxide, Hypochlorous acid), UV damage, Lipid Peroxidation. |
| Why This Matters | Urban environments expose skin to multiple stressors beyond UV radiation. Air pollution particles (PM 2.5) and reactive oxygen species generate oxidative stress that damages skin cells, accelerates aging, and compromises barrier function. |
4.2 Test Results
| Outcome | Result | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Pollution Damage Protection | 80.1% | Significant protection against environmental pollution-induced skin damage |
| PM 2.5 Protection | Yes | Protects against fine particulate matter that penetrates skin barrier |
| Reactive Oxygen Species Protection | Yes | Protects against Ozone, Hydroxyl Radical, Peroxide, Hypochlorous acid |
| UV Damage Protection | Yes | Confirmed through SPF 52.030 and PA++++ efficacy testing |
| Immune System Support | Better immune system against dust | Enhanced skin defense mechanisms |
| Lipid Peroxidation | Lower levels | Reduced oxidative damage to skin cell membranes |
4.3 Clinical Interpretation
| Metric | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 80.1% Pollution Protection | The product demonstrated substantial protection (80.1%) against pollution-induced damage to keratinocytes (skin cells) when exposed to urban dust and environmental pollutants. This indicates the formulation creates a highly effective barrier against particulate matter. |
| PM 2.5 Protection | PM 2.5 particles are fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers that can penetrate deep into skin and generate oxidative stress. Protection against PM 2.5 is particularly relevant for urban dwellers exposed to traffic pollution. |
| Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Protection | Environmental ROS including ozone and hydroxyl radicals are generated by pollution and UV exposure. These molecules damage cellular components including DNA and lipids. The product's antioxidant system helps neutralize these damaging species. |
| Lower Lipid Peroxidation | Lipid peroxidation is the oxidative degradation of lipids in cell membranes. Lower levels indicate the product helps maintain cell membrane integrity and prevents oxidative damage to the skin barrier. |
5. Photostability Study - CCFT Laboratories, April 2025
Category: Stability
5.1 Study Parameters
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Tested | Aqualogica Illuminate + Dewy Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ |
| Sponsor | Honasa Consumer Ltd. |
| Testing Facility | CCFT Laboratories through M/s Mittal Global Clinical Trial Services |
| Date | 28 April 2025 |
| Test Conditions | Standard laboratory conditions |
| Result | Photostable for up to 6 hours |
5.2 Clinical Interpretation
| Metric | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Photostable for 6 Hours | The product maintains its UV filter performance for up to 6 hours under specified laboratory test conditions. This means the UV filters do not significantly degrade when exposed to UV radiation during this period. Photostability is critical because unstable UV filters lose their protective capacity over time when exposed to sunlight. |
6. Formulation Architecture & Active Ingredient System
The Aqualogica Illuminate + Dewy Sunscreen was tested exactly as commercially available. The formulation uses a comprehensive multi-filter system designed for broad-spectrum coverage, photostability, and skin brightening.
| Formulation System | Key Components | Function & Performance Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| UVB Filter System | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid (Ensulizole), Ethylhexyl Salicylate (Octisalate) | Three UVB-focused filters work synergistically to provide strong absorption across the 290-320 nm range, contributing to the SPF 52.030 result. Ethylhexyl Salicylate also functions as an Avobenzone photostabilizer. |
| UVA Filter System | Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone), Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid (Mexoryl SX) | Avobenzone provides excellent absorption at the 360 nm range; Mexoryl SX complements with broader UVA coverage. Together, they are the primary drivers of the PA++++ rating and the 381 nm critical wavelength. |
| Broad Spectrum Anchor | Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol (Tinosorb M) | A dual-mechanism filter that both absorbs and scatters UV radiation across both UVA and UVB ranges. Tinosorb M is one of the most photostable UV filters available and plays a critical role in anchoring the overall protective range and achieving the exceptional 381 nm critical wavelength. |
| Photostabilization System | Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Tinosorb M | Avobenzone is inherently photounstable when used alone. This formula contains two established Avobenzone photostabilizers: Ethylhexyl Salicylate and Tinosorb M. Their inclusion ensures the UV filters maintain their protective performance for up to 6 hours under UV exposure. |
| Brightening System | Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide, Wild Berries Extract | Alpha Arbutin inhibits tyrosinase to reduce melanin production. Niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer. Wild Berries provide antioxidants. Together, they target hyperpigmentation and promote an even skin tone. |
| Hydration System | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Glyceryl Glucoside | Multi-level hydration architecture. Hyaluronic Acid is the primary humectant, drawing moisture to the skin surface. Glycerin and Glyceryl Glucoside provide additional humectant activity, ensuring the "dewy" finish. |
| Barrier Support System | Ceramide EOP, NG, NP, AS, AP; Cetyl-PG Hydroxyethyl Palmitamide, Panthenol | Five ceramide types working together alongside a pseudo-ceramide constitute meaningful skin barrier support. Panthenol (Vitamin B5) supports skin conditioning and barrier repair. |
| Texture & Distribution System | Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isododecane, Tapioca Starch, Sodium Polyacrylate | The gel matrix ensures uniform UV filter distribution across skin. Dimethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane create the characteristic smooth, luminous dewy skin feel. Tapioca Starch absorbs excess sebum for a comfortable wear. |
| Antioxidant System | Capsicum Annuum Fruit Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) | Additional antioxidant activity from marine algae, plant extracts, and Vitamin E supports protection against environmental reactive oxygen species, contributing to the 80.1% anti-pollution protection result. |
7. Published Research on Key Actives
| Ingredient | Primary Published Finding | Relevance to Product |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha Arbutin | Tyrosinase inhibition for skin brightening. Alpha Arbutin is a glycosylated hydroquinone derivative. Published research demonstrates that it inhibits tyrosinase activity, thereby reducing melanin production and improving skin brightness without the cytotoxicity associated with hydroquinone. | Drives skin brightening and reduction of hyperpigmentation. Supports the "Illuminate" claim. |
| Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | Skin barrier support and hyperpigmentation reduction. A randomized, double-blind study in the British Journal of Dermatology (2002) found that topical application of niacinamide significantly reduced hyperpigmented spot area. It also improves barrier function and reduces transepidermal water loss. | Supports tone evenness, barrier support, and hydration. |
| Wild Berries Extract | Antioxidant protection. Wild berries are rich in anthocyanins and Vitamin C. These compounds scavenge free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution, preventing oxidative stress and supporting skin radiance. | Contributes to anti-pollution protection (80.1%) and antioxidant defense. |
| Tinosorb M | Broad-spectrum coverage and photostability. Research demonstrates Tinosorb M is one of the most photostable UV filters available and functions as an Avobenzone photostabilizer through energy transfer mechanisms. | Critical for achieving 381 nm critical wavelength and 6-hour photostability. |
| Ceramides (EOP, NG, NP, AS, AP) | Skin barrier support. A comprehensive review in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology established that ceramides account for approximately 50% of the lipid matrix of the human stratum corneum and are essential for TEWL regulation. | Supports long-term skin health and barrier integrity. |
Published Evidence Summary
| Ingredient | Primary Published Finding | Study Type | Evidence Level | Claim Supported |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha Arbutin | Inhibits tyrosinase, reduces melanin | In-vivo clinical | Strong | Brightening, Illumination |
| Niacinamide | Reduces hyperpigmentation, improves barrier | In-vivo clinical | Strong | Tone evenness, barrier support |
| Wild Berries | Antioxidant activity, free radical scavenging | In-vitro / In-vivo | Moderate | Anti-pollution, radiance |
| Tinosorb M | Broad-spectrum UV absorption, photostable | In-vitro + in-vivo | Strong | 381 nm critical wavelength, 6-hour photostability |
| Ceramides | Reduce TEWL, support barrier integrity | In-vivo clinical | Strong | Barrier support |
8. Common Questions About Sunscreen Efficacy and This Product
A: Under standardized laboratory conditions per ISO 24444:2019, SPF 52.030 means the product provides approximately 52 times more protection against UVB-induced skin damage compared to unprotected skin. It is classified as SPF 50+, the highest tier on the international SPF scale.
A: PA++++ is the highest category in the PA (Protection Grade of UVA) rating system used across Asia. It indicates a UVA Protection Factor of 16 or above - signifying very high defense against UVA rays responsible for tanning, photoaging, and deep skin damage.
A: The product demonstrated 80.1% protection against pollution-induced damage to skin cells (keratinocytes) when exposed to urban dust and environmental pollutants including PM 2.5, ozone, and reactive oxygen species. This indicates the formulation creates an effective barrier against environmental aggressors beyond UV radiation.
A: The product maintains its UV filter performance for up to 6 hours under specified laboratory test conditions. This means the UV filters do not significantly degrade when exposed to UV radiation during this period. However, real-world factors like sweating and rubbing can reduce effective coverage, so reapplication is recommended.
A: In-vivo testing is conducted on human participants under controlled laboratory conditions and is the internationally accepted gold standard for measuring SPF (ISO 24444:2019). In-vitro testing uses an optical laboratory system without human subjects and is the standard method for assessing UVA protection, broad spectrum coverage, and critical wavelength (COLIPA guideline).
A: Critical wavelength measures the point up to which 90% of a sunscreen's UV absorbance is distributed across the spectrum. The international threshold for broad spectrum classification is 370 nm. At 381 nm, this product exceeds that threshold by 11 nm, confirming exceptional coverage extending deep into the UVA-I range.
A: CTRI is the Clinical Trials Registry - India, a government-maintained public database administered under the Indian Council of Medical Research. Registering a study with CTRI creates a publicly verifiable record. The registration number CTRI/2025/02/079848 can be independently looked up at ctri.nic.in.
A: This is a chemical sunscreen using organic UV filters (Avobenzone, Mexoryl SX, Tinosorb M, Octinoxate, Ensulizole, Octisalate), which typically provide more elegant texture and easier application compared to zinc oxide or titanium dioxide-based physical sunscreens.
9. Lab References and Certificate Details
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Testing Laboratory (Efficacy) | CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Meerut |
| Lab Certifications | ISO 9001:2015, ISO 45001:2015, OECD GLP Compliant |
| Lab Classification | FIST Centre - Dept. of Science & Technology, Govt. of India |
| CTRI Registration No. | CTRI/2025/02/079848 |
| Registration Date | 03 February 2025 |
| In-Vivo Test Method | ISO 24444:2019 |
| In-Vitro Test Method | COLIPA Guideline |
| Anti-Pollution Report No. | CCFT-2025-01-860H |
| Sponsor / Brand Owner | Honasa Consumer Ltd |
| Efficacy Certificate Date | 26 February 2025 |
| Photostability Certificate Date | 28 April 2025 |
| Signed By (Efficacy) | Nidhi Dixit, Clinical Research Associate, CCFT Laboratories |
| Signed By (Photostability) | Puneet Mittal (Director R&D) + Nidhi Dixit (Lab Head), CCFT Laboratories |
All certificates on this page reflect testing on the product formulation as commercially available. Results are test-specific. Real-world outcomes may differ from study conditions. Reapplication as directed on product packaging is recommended regardless of photostability.
10. References
- Hakozaki T, et al. The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer. Br J Dermatol. 2002;147(1):20-31. PMID: 12100180.
- Coderch L, et al. Ceramides and skin function. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2003;4(2):107-29. PMID: 12553851.
- ISO 24444:2019. Cosmetics - Sun protection test methods - In vivo determination of the sun protection factor (SPF). International Organization for Standardization; 2019.
- COLIPA. Method for the in vitro determination of UVA protection provided by sunscreen products. COLIPA; 2011.
- CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate for Aqualogica Illuminate + Dewy Sunscreen. CTRI/2025/02/079848. CCFT Laboratories; 2025.
- WebMD Medical Reference. Sunscreen: What to look for. WebMD; 2023.
Annexure: Multi-Dimensional Evidence Summary
| Evidence Type | What It Proves | Source | Application in this Report |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Report (Sunscreen Efficacy) | This product achieved SPF 52.030, PA++++, 381 nm critical wavelength under ISO 24444:2019 and COLIPA guidelines | Brand-commissioned study by CCFT Laboratories, CTRI registered | Validates the final commercial product's sun protection efficacy |
| Clinical Report (Anti-Pollution) | This product provides 80.1% protection against pollution damage including PM 2.5 and reactive oxygen species | Brand-commissioned study by CCFT Laboratories | Validates environmental protection beyond UV |
| Clinical Report (Photostability) | This product maintains UV filter performance for up to 6 hours under test conditions | Brand-commissioned study by CCFT Laboratories | Validates durability of sun protection |
| Published Research | Key natural ingredients (Alpha Arbutin, Niacinamide, Wild Berries, Ceramides) have specific, measurable effects at defined concentrations | Peer-reviewed journals (PubMed indexed) | Validates the functional rationale for the formulation's skin quality benefits |
