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Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF45 with 8 Anti-Oxidants
Estée Lauder

Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF45 with 8 Anti-Oxidants

SPF 45Efficacy90/100IrritancyMedium·3 UV filters
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Works for

3 of 3 advertised claims delivered

Sun protection
SPF 45 · 3 UV filters
Broad spectrum
SPF 45Broad spectrumChemical filters

This product offers a good level of protection against both UVB and UVA rays.

This sunscreen uses organic (so-called "chemical") sunscreen filters. Organic, or "chemical" filters usually provide reliable sun protection and rarely leave a white cast. Sunscreens with organic filters can sting eyes.

This product can be considered "reef safe" because it does not contain the UV filters (oxybenzone and octinoxate) that can be harmful to coral reefs when present in the water in high concentrations.

UV spectrum
UVB290–320 nmUVA II320–340 nmUVA I340–400 nm
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Titanium Dioxide
Zinc Oxide
FilterCoverageWhat it doesEst. amount
Butyloctyl SalicylateUVBA synthetic ester of salicylic acid that is used to help disperse pigments and boost effectiveness of sunscreen ingredients. It is able to absorb UV light (working as an organic, or chemical filter), but is not approved as a sunscreen ingredient on its own~6.5–8%
Titanium Dioxide Mineral UVBUVA2 Photo-stable Works as a UV filter when used in high concentrations. It is photostable and is effective mostly against the UVB light, with some protection in the UVA range. In small concentrations, used for its ability to improve the color of cosmetic products. Is usually well tolerated by the skin6.3%
Zinc Oxide Mineral UVBUVA Photo-stable A broad spectrum sunblock (protects from both UVA and UVB rays). Is suitable for most sensitive skins. In small concentrations, can be used as a colorant4%
~ marks concentrations estimated from label position and typical use levels
Reef-safe
No oxybenzone or octinoxate — the two filters banned in Hawaii, Florida Keys and Aruba.
Evens skin tone
Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate
Strong evidence
What the product description says
“Vitamins C and E work to nourish and brighten, while resveratrol supports a renewed and youthful-looking appearance.”
Source: Lookfantastic

This product offers broad spectrum sun protection. It means that it can prevent hyperpigmentation and help keep the skin tone even (sun damage is the main factor causing age spots, darkening of post-acne marks and other discolorations).

Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: LowCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.6–0.9%
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateUnder-dosedEffect: HighBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~0.45–0.7%
Anti-aging
Thermus thermophillus ferment, Camellia sinensis leaf extract + 2 more
Strong evidence
What the product description says
“This patent-pending formula, also featuring Tiger Lily Extract, helps fight damage to elastin to support naturally firm, bouncy skin.”
Source: Skinstore

This product can help prevent early signs of skin aging because it offers a good level of broad spectrum sun protection. Sun damage is the main cause of premature skin aging, and protecting your skin from the sun is the best anti-aging strategy.

Thermus thermophillus fermentEffect: LowMight be helpful in neutralising free radicals in skin and have some hydration properties~0.65–1%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: LowCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.6–0.9%
Algae extractEffect: LowPlant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet~0.65–1%
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateUnder-dosedEffect: HighBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~0.45–0.7%
Anti-oxidation
Not advertised by the brand · Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol manganese chloride, Camellia sinensis leaf extract + 8 more
Strong evidence

This product contains antioxidants (ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol manganese chloride) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

The following ingredients - camellia sinensis leaf extract also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol manganese chlorideKey activeEffect: HighA potent anti-oxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and protect from harmful effects of sun exposure, even though more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in topical applications~0.3–0.55%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractKey activeEffect: MediumCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.6–0.9%
CaffeineEffect: LowMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyes~0.55–0.85%
Thermus thermophillus fermentEffect: LowMight be helpful in neutralising free radicals in skin and have some hydration properties~0.65–1%
ErgothioneineUnder-dosedEffect: HighCan help neutralize free radicals in skin. Preliminary studies show that it can be more effective than coenzyme Q10 but studies on effective concentration for topical applications are lacking~0.55–0.8%
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateUnder-dosedEffect: HighBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~0.45–0.7%
Hordeum vulgare extractEffect: Low, below effective doseA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties. Avoid if you are sensitive to gluten~0.8–1.15%
Polygonum cuspidatum root extractEffect: Low, below effective doseA plant extract that can contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. The effectiveness depends on the extract quality and concentration in the product~0.75–1.15%
Tocopheryl acetateEffect: Low, below effective doseA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.~0.55–0.85%
Triticum vulgare germ extractEffect: Low, below effective dosePlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance~0.75–1.15%
Moisturizing
Not advertised by the brand · Algae extract, Sodium hyaluronate + 16 more
Good evidence

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: algae extract, glycerin.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: dimethicone, squalane.

Algae extractKey active· Humectant, EmollientEffect: HighPlant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet~0.65–1%
Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.65–0.95%
SqualaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~0.65–1%
Thermus thermophillus fermentKey active· HumectantEffect: HighMight be helpful in neutralising free radicals in skin and have some hydration properties~0.65–1%
DimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish~5.2–6.3%
GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~0.6–0.9%
Isopropyl myristateKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Could be comedogenic~0.3–0.6%
C12-15 alkyl benzoateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumEnhances the product texture and makes it more spreadable. Helps reduce water loss from the outer layer of skin. Extands the shelf life by preventing bacteria growth~4.6–5.7%
Diethylhexyl succinateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~2.7–3.3%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.55–0.8%
Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethiconeEffect: LowA type of silicone that helps water and oil mix together. Can help to soften upper layer of the skin~0.75–1.15%
Isononyl isononanoate· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowForms a protective film on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss. Gives a velvety feel to products while reducing tackiness~3.3–4%
Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethiconeEffect: LowA type of silicone that helps to soften upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~1–1.3%
Neopentyl glycol diheptanoate· EmollientEffect: LowHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product consistency~2.2–2.7%
Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~1.6–1.9%
Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: LowCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.6–0.9%
Propylene carbonateEffect: LowIs used to dissolve other ingredients and create nice product texture~0.3–0.5%
Triticum vulgare germ extractUnder-dosedEffect: MediumPlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance~0.75–1.15%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
16 flagged ingredients
Medium risk
We flagged 16 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Anthemis nobilis flower extractA plant extract that one one hand, can contain compounds that can help calm down skin irritation, but, on the other hand, its other compounds (especially fragrant ones) can themselves be irritatingHigh~0.5–0.75%est.
Ci 45410A red colorantHigh~0.15–0.25%est.
Butyloctyl salicylateA synthetic ester of salicylic acid that is used to help disperse pigments and boost effectiveness of sunscreen ingredients. It is able to absorb UV light (working as an organic, or chemical filter), but is not approved as a sunscreen ingredient on its ownMedium~6.5–8%est.
Polygonum cuspidatum root extractA plant extract that can contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. The effectiveness depends on the extract quality and concentration in the productMedium~0.75–1.15%est.
Hordeum vulgare extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties. Avoid if you are sensitive to glutenMedium~0.8–1.15%est.
Triticum vulgare germ extractPlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intoleranceMedium~0.75–1.15%est.
Thermus thermophillus fermentMight be helpful in neutralising free radicals in skin and have some hydration propertiesMedium~0.65–1%est.
CaffeineMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyesMedium~0.55–0.85%est.
Tocopheryl acetateA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.Medium~0.55–0.85%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.55–0.8%est.
Polyhydroxystearic acidUsed to create a thicker product consistency and stabilize the formulationMedium~0.5–0.75%est.
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.Medium~0.45–0.7%est.
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol manganese chlorideA potent anti-oxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and protect from harmful effects of sun exposure, even though more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in topical applicationsMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
Dimethicone/peg-10/15 crosspolymerHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
BhtA preservativeMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Blue 1 lakeA colorantMedium~0.1–0.25%est.
Comedogenic
4 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
4 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Triticum vulgare germ extractPlant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance3/5~0.75–1.15%est.
Algae extractPlant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet3/5~0.65–1%est.
Isopropyl myristateAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Could be comedogenic3/5~0.3–0.6%est.
Ci 45410A red colorant3/5~0.15–0.25%est.
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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Titanium dioxide6.3%
UV filterKey active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Sun protection

Works as a UV filter when used in high concentrations. It is photostable and is effective mostly against the UVB light, with some protection in the UVA range. In small concentrations, used for its ability to improve the color of cosmetic products. Is usually well tolerated by the skin

More about Titanium dioxide
Zinc oxide4%
UV filterKey active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Sun protection

A broad spectrum sunblock (protects from both UVA and UVB rays). Is suitable for most sensitive skins. In small concentrations, can be used as a colorant

More about Zinc oxide
Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Dimethicone~5.2–6.3%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone
Butyloctyl salicylate~6.5–8%
UV filterKey activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Sun protection

A synthetic ester of salicylic acid that is used to help disperse pigments and boost effectiveness of sunscreen ingredients. It is able to absorb UV light (working as an organic, or chemical filter), but is not approved as a sunscreen ingredient on its own

More about Butyloctyl salicylate
C12-15 alkyl benzoate~4.6–5.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Enhances the product texture and makes it more spreadable. Helps reduce water loss from the outer layer of skin. Extands the shelf life by preventing bacteria growth

More about C12-15 alkyl benzoate
Methyl trimethicone~3.5–4.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A type of silicone that helps create a silky product finish and dissolve other ingredients

More about Methyl trimethicone
Isononyl isononanoate~3.3–4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Forms a protective film on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss. Gives a velvety feel to products while reducing tackiness

More about Isononyl isononanoate
Diethylhexyl succinate~2.7–3.3%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Diethylhexyl succinate
Neopentyl glycol diheptanoate~2.2–2.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product consistency

More about Neopentyl glycol diheptanoate
Butylene glycol~1.6–1.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol
Dipentaerythrityl tri-polyhydroxystearate~1.3–1.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Dipentaerythrityl tri-polyhydroxystearate
Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone~1–1.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A type of silicone that helps to soften upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone
Silica~1.2–1.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to absorb oil and can temporarily mattify skin

More about Silica
Trimethylsiloxysilicate~1–1.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A type of silicone that helps create a nice product consistency and support the delivery of other ingredients

More about Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethicone~0.75–1.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A type of silicone that helps water and oil mix together. Can help to soften upper layer of the skin

More about Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethicone
Hydroxyapatite~1–1.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hydroxyapatite
Polygonum cuspidatum root extract~0.75–1.15%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that can contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. The effectiveness depends on the extract quality and concentration in the product

More about Polygonum cuspidatum root extract
Hordeum vulgare extract~0.8–1.15%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant properties. Avoid if you are sensitive to gluten

More about Hordeum vulgare extract
Triticum vulgare germ extract~0.75–1.15%
Under-dosedComedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Plant extract that might have moisturizing properties. Avoid if you suffer from wheat or gluten intolerance

More about Triticum vulgare germ extract
Thermus thermophillus ferment~0.65–1%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

Might be helpful in neutralising free radicals in skin and have some hydration properties

More about Thermus thermophillus ferment
Sodium hyaluronate~0.65–0.95%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate
Opuntia tuna fruit extract~0.6–0.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Opuntia tuna fruit extract
Lilium tigrinum extract~0.6–0.85%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Lilium tigrinum extract
Algae extract~0.65–1%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

Plant extract that helps the skin to attract water and make it more smooth for touch. Also shows promise of anti-aging properties, but research is not extensive yet

More about Algae extract
Camellia sinensis leaf extract~0.6–0.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
AntibacterialAnti-oxidationAnti-agingAnti-blemishMoisturizingEvens skin tone

Can contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation

More about Camellia sinensis leaf extract
Anthemis nobilis flower extract~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryReduces irritation

A plant extract that one one hand, can contain compounds that can help calm down skin irritation, but, on the other hand, its other compounds (especially fragrant ones) can themselves be irritating

More about Anthemis nobilis flower extract
Caffeine~0.55–0.85%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
De-puffingAnti-oxidation

Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyes

More about Caffeine
Tocopheryl acetate~0.55–0.85%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.

More about Tocopheryl acetate
Ergothioneine~0.55–0.8%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidation

Can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Preliminary studies show that it can be more effective than coenzyme Q10 but studies on effective concentration for topical applications are lacking

More about Ergothioneine
Squalane~0.65–1%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.

More about Squalane
Glycerin~0.6–0.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin
Dimethicone silylate~0.55–0.85%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Dimethicone silylate
Hydrolyzed wheat protein/pvp crosspolymer~0.6–0.85%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hydrolyzed wheat protein/pvp crosspolymer
Dimethicone crosspolymer-3~0.55–0.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Dimethicone crosspolymer-3
Glyceryl behenate/eicosadioate~0.6–0.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Glyceryl behenate/eicosadioate
Stearalkonium hectorite~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to create an even product consistency

More about Stearalkonium hectorite
Caprylyl glycol~0.55–0.8%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Isostearic acid~0.55–0.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a nice product texture

More about Isostearic acid
Polyhydroxystearic acid~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency and stabilize the formulation

More about Polyhydroxystearic acid
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate~0.45–0.7%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-aging

Being a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.

More about Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate
Dipropylene glycol~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps to dissolve other ingredients in a formulation. Slows down the rate of product drying

More about Dipropylene glycol
Triethoxycaprylylsilane~0.4–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A type of silicone that helps oil and water mix well together. Helps to disperse other ingredients, e.g. pigments, evenly in a formulation

More about Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol manganese chloride~0.3–0.55%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A potent anti-oxidant that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and protect from harmful effects of sun exposure, even though more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in topical applications

More about Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol manganese chloride
Cyclodextrin~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A type of sugar that is used to support delivery of active ingredients and can enhance their penetration into the skin without disrupting the skin's barrier

More about Cyclodextrin
Dimethicone/peg-10/15 crosspolymer~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Dimethicone/peg-10/15 crosspolymer
Isopropyl myristate~0.3–0.6%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin. Could be comedogenic

More about Isopropyl myristate
Propylene carbonate~0.3–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Is used to dissolve other ingredients and create nice product texture

More about Propylene carbonate
Bht~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Bht
Phenoxyethanol~0.2–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Ci 45410~0.15–0.25%
Comedogenic 3/5Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Comedogenicity
3/5

A red colorant

More about Ci 45410
Blue 1 lake~0.1–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A colorant

More about Blue 1 lake
Ingredient list view

Titanium dioxide, Zinc oxide, Water, Dimethicone, Butyloctyl salicylate, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, Methyl trimethicone, Isononyl isononanoate, Diethylhexyl succinate, Neopentyl glycol diheptanoate, Butylene glycol, Dipentaerythrityl tri-polyhydroxystearate, Lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone, Silica, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethicone, Hydroxyapatite, Polygonum cuspidatum root extract, Hordeum vulgare extract, Triticum vulgare germ extract, Thermus thermophillus ferment, Sodium hyaluronate, Opuntia tuna fruit extract, Lilium tigrinum extract, Algae extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Anthemis nobilis flower extract, Caffeine, Tocopheryl acetate, Ergothioneine, Squalane, Glycerin, Dimethicone silylate, Hydrolyzed wheat protein/pvp crosspolymer, Dimethicone crosspolymer-3, Glyceryl behenate/eicosadioate, Stearalkonium hectorite, Caprylyl glycol, Isostearic acid, Polyhydroxystearic acid, Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, Dipropylene glycol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol manganese chloride, Cyclodextrin, Dimethicone/peg-10/15 crosspolymer, Isopropyl myristate, Propylene carbonate, Bht, Phenoxyethanol, Ci 45410, Blue 1 lake

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Estee Lauder
$48.00
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Product summary

Based on the ingredients included, we believe that "Estée Lauder - Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF45 with 8 Anti-Oxidants" can offer reliable sun protection. It can protect from both UVA and UVB rays. This is great news because not all sunscreens with SPF ratings give UVA protection. (UVA rays do not cause sunburn, but still damage our skin and lead to early aging).

Because it includes good moisturizing ingredients, it can also work as a hydrating day cream. Like all broad-spectrum sunscreens, this product has an anti-aging benefit.

Sunscreen filters

This sunscreen uses a mixture of both mineral and organic (so-called "chemical") UV filters. The organic filters in the product are: butyloctyl salicylate. As for the mineral filters, this sunscreen uses both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Irritation risk

There are some common irritants in this product, including ingredients that do not have benefits for the skin. We assess the overall irritancy of this moisturizer to be medium. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here

You can see the detailed formula review with the breakdown of all actives in the product and the full ingredient list with estimated concentrations in the tables below.

Price

The product retails for 48.00$ in the United States and for 40.00£ in the United Kingdom.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 25 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    A review of inorganic UV filters zinc oxide and titanium dioxideonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  2. 2
    Risk assessment of zinc oxide, a cosmetic ingredient used as a UV filter of sunscreensncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    Characterization of the UVA protection provided by avobenzone, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide in broad-spectrum sunscreen productsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    Ultraviolet Protection Properties of Commercial Sunscreens and Sunscreens Containing Zno Nanorodsiopscience.iop.org
  5. 5
    ZnO nanoparticles and organic chemical UV-filters are equally well tolerated by human immune cellsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    Dimethicone as a protective ingredient in topical medicationsjaad.org
Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF45 with 8 Anti-Oxidants
Estée LauderPerfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF45 with 8 Anti-Oxidants
Buy at Estee Lauder$48.00Amazon

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Buy at Estee Lauder$48.00Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.