Dr. Sheth's Centella and Niacinamide Oil-Free Matte Sunscreen - clinical Testing
Dr. Sheth's Centella and Niacinamide Oil-Free Matte Sunscreen: Clinical Efficacy Report
Independently tested at CCFT Laboratories with verified in-vivo SPF 51.98, in-vitro SPF 63.61, PA++++ rating, 378 nm critical wavelength and 3-star Boots rating for comprehensive UVA/UVB protection, in an oil-free matte formula built for oily and acne-prone skin.
At a Glance: Sunscreen Performance Metrics
| In-Vivo SPF | In-Vitro SPF | PA Rating | Critical Wavelength | Boots Star | Broad Spectrum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51.98 | 63.61 | ++++ | 378 nm | *** | Yes |
This product was evaluated for sunscreen efficacy at CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. under CTRI/2026/02/104043 in accordance with ISO 24444:2019 and COLIPA international standards.
1. Study Overview & Design
| Study Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Study Title | Certificate of Sunscreen Efficacy Testing for Dr. Sheth's Centella & Niacinamide Oil-Free Matte Sunscreen |
| Specific Parameters Measured | Sun Protection Factor (SPF) - In-vivo & In-vitro, UVA Protection Factor and PA Rating, Critical Wavelength, Broad Spectrum Classification, Boots Star Rating |
| Why These Parameters Matter | UVB radiation (290-320 nm) causes sunburn and contributes to skin cancer. UVA radiation (320-400 nm) penetrates deeper, causing photoaging, tanning and long-term structural damage. For oily, acne-prone skin, UVA also darkens post-acne marks. Comprehensive protection requires verified defence across both ranges with a critical wavelength above 370 nm. |
| Study Type | In-vivo and in-vitro sunscreen efficacy evaluation |
| Testing Methods | ISO 24444:2019 (In-vivo SPF), COLIPA Guideline (In-vitro SPF, UVA-PF, Broad Spectrum, Boots Star) |
| Specific Product Studied | Dr. Sheth's Centella & Niacinamide Oil-Free Matte Sunscreen - 50g (exact commercial formulation) |
| Product Connection | The formulation pairs a broad-spectrum UV filter system with 4% Niacinamide, Bix'Activ® and Centella Asiatica extract, delivering SPF 50+ PA++++ protection in a lightweight, oil-free, water-resistant matte base designed not to clog pores. |
2. Claim Substantiation Matrix
| Claim | Certificate | Evidence | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPF 50 | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | In-vivo SPF 51.98 - ISO 24444:2019 | Supported |
| SPF 50+ (on-pack) | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | Under ISO 24444 / COLIPA labelling convention, "50+" is used when the measured SPF is 60 or above. The measured in-vivo SPF of 51.98 supports an SPF 50 label; the in-vitro SPF of 63.61 is not the labelling basis. | Review labelling |
| PA++++ | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | PA++++ (in vitro) - COLIPA 2011 UVA-PF method; PA++++ requires UVA-PF ≥ 16. The numeric UVA-PF is not printed on the certificate. | Supported |
| In-Vivo Tested | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | ISO 24444:2019 in-vivo study on human volunteers | Supported |
| Broad Spectrum | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | Critical wavelength 378 nm exceeds the 370 nm threshold | Supported |
| Boots Star *** | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate | *** (60-80% UVA/UVB ratio) on the Efficacy Certificate. The Claim Sheet prints ****; the certificate figure is used here pending CCFT confirmation. | Supported (verify) |
| Water-Resistant | Product page | Brand claim on the product page; water resistance was not among the parameters reported on the certificate. | Brand claim |
| Oil-Free, Matte, Non Pore-Clogging | Product page | Formulation claim: oil-free base, 4% Niacinamide, Bix'Activ®. Not part of the SPF study. | Brand claim |
| CTRI Registered | Clinical Trials Registry | CTRI/2026/02/104043 - registered 2026 (month per CTRI record) | Verified |
3. Test Results and Clinical Interpretation
3.1 Laboratory Results
| Outcome | Result | Clinical Classification |
|---|---|---|
| SPF (In-Vivo) | 51.98 | High protection - supports an SPF 50 label |
| SPF (In-Vitro) | 63.61 | Confirms filter capacity in the laboratory setup |
| UVA-PF | Not printed on certificate | PA++++ requires UVA-PF of 16 or above |
| PA Rating | ++++ | Highest achievable tier |
| Critical Wavelength | 378 nm | Exceeds the 370 nm threshold, confirming UVA-I coverage |
| Boots Star Rating | *** (certificate) / **** (claim sheet) | Three stars = 60-80% UVA/UVB ratio; four stars = 80-90%. Discrepancy between the two documents - see Section 7. |
| Broad Spectrum | Yes | Protection verified across UVB (290-320 nm) and UVA (320-400 nm) |
3.2 Clinical Interpretation of Results
| Metric | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| SPF 51.98 (In-Vivo) | Under standardised conditions per ISO 24444:2019, the product demonstrated approximately 52 times more protection against UVB-induced erythema than unprotected skin. This supports an SPF 50 label; the "50+" designation is conventionally reserved for measured values of 60 or above (Diffey, 2001, PMID: 11348430). |
| SPF 63.61 (In-Vitro) | The in-vitro result, measured with the COLIPA optical method, describes UV filter capacity under laboratory conditions alongside the separately measured in-vivo SPF (COLIPA, 2011). |
| PA++++ | PA++++ is the highest category of the Protection Grade of UVA system used across India, Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia, requiring a UVA Protection Factor of 16 or above (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374). |
| Critical Wavelength 378 nm | Critical wavelength is the point where 90% of total UV absorbance occurs. Exceeding 370 nm confirms extended coverage into UVA-I (340-400 nm), the range that reaches the dermis and darkens post-inflammatory marks (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374). |
| Boots Star Rating *** | The Boots Star Rating measures the ratio of UVA to UVB protection. Three stars indicates a 60-80% ratio, four stars 80-90%, five stars 90% or more (Diffey, 2011, PMID: 21564299). The Efficacy Certificate reports ***; the Claim Sheet reports ****. The certificate value is used on this page. |
| Broad Spectrum | Broad spectrum classification confirms meaningful protection across both UVB and UVA wavelengths; a critical wavelength of at least 370 nm is required (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374). |
Original Laboratory Reports
The detailed laboratory documents supporting the sunscreen efficacy results are available below. These provide the underlying test documentation for the in-vivo and in-vitro evaluations referenced on this page.
Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate
The Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate for Dr. Sheth's Centella & Niacinamide Oil-Free Matte Sunscreen is available as issued by CCFT Laboratories. It states the in-vivo SPF (ISO 24444:2019), in-vitro SPF, PA rating, broad-spectrum status, Boots star rating, critical wavelength and CTRI number, signed by Puneet Mittal, Director R&D.
CCFT Claim Sheet
The Claim Sheet issued by the Centre for Cruelty-Free Testing lists the claims confirmed during the study - SPF in vivo 51.98, SPF in vitro 63.61, PA++++ and broad spectrum - signed by Puneet Mittal, Director R&D, and Nidhi Dixit, Clinical Research Associate.
4. Formulation Architecture & UV Filter System
Dr. Sheth's Centella & Niacinamide Oil-Free Matte Sunscreen was tested exactly as commercially available. The formulation combines a broad-spectrum UV filter system with sebum-regulating and soothing actives in an oil-free, matte, non pore-clogging base.
4.1 UV Filter System
| Formulation System | Key Components | Function & Performance Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| UVB Filter System | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), Titanium Dioxide | UVB-focused filters provide absorption across 290-320 nm, driving the in-vivo SPF result. |
| UVA Filter System | Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus), Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone (Iscotrizinol) | Long-wave UVA absorbers are the primary drivers of the PA++++ rating and the critical wavelength above 370 nm. |
| Broad Spectrum / Photostabilisation | Zinc Oxide, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S) | Filters that absorb across both ranges and stabilise photolabile filters anchor the overall protective range. |
4.2 Oil Control & Skin Health Actives
| Formulation System | Key Components | Function & Performance Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide 4% | Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | Reduces sebum excretion rate and improves barrier function; at 2-5% it also reduces the appearance of pores and post-acne marks (Draelos et al., 2006, PMID: 16766489; Hakozaki et al., 2002, PMID: 12100180). |
| Bix'Activ® | Bixa Orellana Seed Extract | A sebo-regulating botanical active shown in supplier clinical work to reduce sebum production and shine; provides the long-lasting matte finish without drying the skin. |
| Centella Asiatica | Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica) | Asiaticoside and madecassoside calm redness and support barrier repair, relevant on acne-prone skin under daily sun exposure (Bylka et al., 2013, PMID: 24278070). |
| Mattifying / Oil-Absorbing Base | silica or starch | Absorbs excess sebum and sets to a dry-touch finish, keeping the film in place in humid conditions. |
4.3 Exclusion Profile: What is Not in This Formula
| What is absent | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| No added oils / oil-free base | Avoids adding lipid load to oily, acne-prone skin and supports the non pore-clogging claim. |
| No heavy occlusives | Keeps the finish matte and comfortable under makeup and in humidity. |
| Not pregnancy-safe | The brand states this sunscreen is not safe for use during pregnancy; the filter system is the reason. Pregnant users should choose a mineral sunscreen. |
5. Published Research Supporting Key Ingredients
5.1 UV Filters and Photoprotection
| Ingredient | Primary Published Finding | Study Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Modern broad-spectrum filter systems | Combining UVB filters with photostable long-UVA absorbers delivers balanced UVA/UVB protection and critical wavelengths above 370 nm | Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374 |
| UVA and photoaging | UVA exposure drives dermal photoaging and pigmentation; daily broad-spectrum use reduces both | Fourtanier et al., 2008, PMID: 18489491 |
| UVA/UVB balance | The Boots Star system quantifies the ratio of UVA to UVB protection | Diffey, 2011, PMID: 21564299 |
5.2 Oil Control & Skin Health Actives
| Ingredient | Primary Published Finding | Study Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide | 2% topical niacinamide significantly reduced sebum excretion rate in a randomised trial | Draelos et al., 2006, PMID: 16766489 |
| Niacinamide | Reduces hyperpigmented spots and improves barrier function | Hakozaki et al., 2002, PMID: 12100180 |
| Centella Asiatica | Asiaticoside and madecassoside promote wound healing and reduce inflammation in skin | Bylka et al., 2013, PMID: 24278070 |
| Sunscreen and post-acne marks | Daily photoprotection limits UV-driven darkening of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation | Davis & Callender, 2010, PMID: 20725554 |
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the in-vivo SPF of 51.98 mean in practical terms?
A: Under ISO 24444:2019 laboratory standards, an in-vivo SPF of 51.98 means the sunscreen provided approximately 52 times more protection against UVB-induced erythema than unprotected skin on the test panel. This supports an SPF 50 label; "50+" is conventionally reserved for measured values of 60 or above (Diffey, 2001, PMID: 11348430).
Q: What does PA++++ mean?
A: PA++++ is the highest category in the Protection Grade of UVA system used across India, Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia. It requires a UVA Protection Factor of 16 or above and signifies very high defence against long-wave UVA rays that drive tanning and photoaging (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374).
Q: What does a critical wavelength of 378 nm mean?
A: Critical wavelength is the point where 90% of a sunscreen's total UV absorbance occurs. A value of 378 nm against the 370 nm international threshold confirms coverage extends into the UVA-I range (340-400 nm) responsible for deep dermal penetration (Wang et al., 2011, PMID: 21463374).
Q: What is the difference between in-vivo and in-vitro SPF?
A: In-vivo SPF (51.98) is measured on human volunteers under ISO 24444:2019. In-vitro SPF (63.61) is measured optically on a substrate under the COLIPA guideline. The in-vivo figure is the one that supports the on-pack SPF claim; the in-vitro figure confirms filter capacity in the laboratory setup.
Q: Why is this sunscreen called 'oil-free' and 'matte'?
A: The base is a lightweight non-greasy system rather than an oil-rich emulsion, and it is formulated with 4% Niacinamide and Bix'Activ®, a sebo-regulating active, so the finish stays dry-touch on oily and acne-prone skin. These are formulation and brand claims from the product page; the laboratory reports on this page cover SPF and UVA performance, not oil control.
Q: Is it water-resistant?
A: The brand lists the product as water-resistant on the product page. Water resistance was not among the parameters reported on the CCFT certificate. Reapply after swimming, sweating or towel-drying regardless.
Q: Is this sunscreen suitable for oily and acne-prone skin?
A: It is designed for it. The brand pairs 4% Niacinamide with Bix'Activ® to regulate excess sebum and Centella Asiatica to calm redness, in a non pore-clogging formula. Individuals with active acne should still patch test before full-face use.
Q: Can I wear it under makeup?
A: Yes. The matte, lightweight finish is designed to sit under makeup as a base without feeling heavy when layered properly.
Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?
A: No. The product page states this sunscreen is not safe for use during pregnancy. Pregnant users should choose a mineral-filter sunscreen and consult their doctor.
Q: How often should I reapply?
A: Every 2 hours during continuous sun exposure, and immediately after swimming, sweating or towel-drying. The SPF result reflects the ISO application rate of 2 mg/cm²; under-application reduces the protection you actually receive.
Q: How can I verify this study myself?
A: The study is registered with the Clinical Trials Registry - India under CTRI/2026/02/104043, which you can search at ctri.nic.in independently of the brand. The original certificate and laboratory report are linked on this page.
7. Laboratory References and Certificate Details
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| 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/2026/02/104043 |
| Registration Date | 2026 (month per CTRI record; not printed on certificate) |
| Date of Issue | Not printed on certificate |
| In-Vivo Test Method | ISO 24444:2019 |
| In-Vitro Test Method | COLIPA Guideline |
| Certificate | Sunscreen Efficacy Certificate · Claim Sheet |
| Claim Sheet | CCFT Claim Sheet - signed by Puneet Mittal (Director R&D) and Nidhi Dixit (Clinical Research Associate) |
| Boots Star Discrepancy | Efficacy Certificate: ***. Claim Sheet: ****. This page uses the certificate value; confirm with CCFT and update both documents to match. |
| Sponsor / Brand Owner | Dr. Sheth's (Honasa Consumer Limited) |
| Signed By | Puneet Mittal, Director R&D (Certificate and Claim Sheet); Nidhi Dixit, Clinical Research Associate (Claim Sheet), CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. |
All certificates on this page reflect testing on the product formulation as commercially available. Results are test-specific under controlled laboratory conditions at the ISO application rate of 2 mg/cm². Real-world outcomes may vary. Reapplication as directed on product packaging is recommended.
8. References
- Diffey BL. Sunscreen isn't enough. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2001;64(2-3):105-108. PMID: 11348430
- Wang SQ, Balagula Y, Osterwalder U. Photoprotection: A review of the current and future technologies. Dermatol Ther. 2011;24(1):31-47. PMID: 21463374
- Diffey BL. The Boots Star Rating system for sunscreen products. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2011;27(3):159-160. PMID: 21564299
- Fourtanier A, Moyal D, Seité S. Sunscreens containing the broad-spectrum UVA absorber, Mexoryl SX, prevent the cutaneous detrimental effects of UV exposure. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2008;24(4):181-194. PMID: 18489491
- Draelos ZD, Matsubara A, Smiles K. The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2006;8(2):96-101. PMID: 16766489
- Hakozaki T, Minwalla L, Zhuang J, 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
- Bylka W, Znajdek-Awiżeń P, Studzińska-Sroka E, Brzezińska M. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2013;30(1):46-49. PMID: 24278070
- Davis EC, Callender VD. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation: a review of the epidemiology, clinical features, and treatment options in skin of color. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2010;3(7):20-31. PMID: 20725554
- COLIPA. Method for the in vitro determination of UVA protection provided by sunscreen products. COLIPA; 2011.
- CCFT Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. Certificate of Sunscreen Efficacy Testing for Dr. Sheth's Centella & Niacinamide Oil-Free Matte Sunscreen. CTRI/2026/02/104043. CCFT Laboratories; 2026.
