Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30

Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30
6.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.1 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
30
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30 work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Moisturizer with the right occlusivity for dry to very dry skin, ideally to be used with extra humectants

According to CreamScan analysis, Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30 is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 2.1 out of 10 and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈40.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30 suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

However, it contains a relatively low level of humectants, and people with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30 has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

With an SPF of 30, Dermalogica Age Smart Skin Perfect Primer SPF 30 provides moderate to high sun protection, making it suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure, such as commuting or light outdoor activities.

This level of SPF offers excellent defense against UVB rays, blocking up to 97% of harmful radiation. When labeled as broad-spectrum, these products also protect against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and hyperpigmentation.

For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF works well for skin types mildly prone to sunburn. It is particularly suitable for low-to-moderate UV index environments and non-tropical climates. However, it is not recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure or intense UV conditions. Reapplication every two hours is essential to maintain effectiveness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
40
22
14
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Diisopropyl Adipate
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Function:
Origin:
Silanetriol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Pearl
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Spica (Lavender) Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Hybrida Oil
Function:
Origin:
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Tin Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
40.3
40.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.1 10
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 40.3 20
10.0
40.0
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.1 10
2.1
All humectants
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
40
0.3
All occlusives 40.3 20
10.0
All occlusives
40.3
40.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %40
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %22
Function
Origin
Dimethicone CrosspolymerA group of ingredients that are typically added to skincare products to adjust the formula. Dimethicone Crosspolymers stabilize a formula, regulate its thickness and consistency and give the product a velvety feel.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %14
Function
Origin
CyclopentasiloxaneA lightweight, fast-spreading emollient that leaves a very soft and silky after-feel on the skin. Supplied as a clear and colorless liquid, cyclopentasiloxane is often used as a solvent to dissolve other silicones in.
Diisopropyl Adipate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Diisopropyl AdipateA synthetic oil-like ingredient with a light feel and softening effect not just on skin, but for products as a whole.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer
Silica
Est. %2
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl DimethiconeA powerful emulsifier with the unique trait of being able to work in both oil- and silicone-based formulas. It can also function as a thickener in low concentrations.
Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl HydroxythreonineA synthetically made peptide that was designed to target the dermo-epidermal junction, where it should stimulate the production of structural proteins. It has not been clinically tested yet.
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Soy ProteinA mixture of proteins obtained from soybeans. It can have many different functions depending on the manufacturer, although it is most commonly used in skincare products as a humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Silanetriol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silanetriol
Hydrolyzed Pearl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Pearl
Lavandula Spica (Lavender) Flower Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Spica (Lavender) Flower Oil
Lavandula Hybrida Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Hybrida OilA fragrant essential oil distilled from a lavender hybrid of the two most common lavender species: true lavender and spike lavender. It contains linalool and linalyl acetate as well as eucalyptol and camphor, which altogether give it a cooling, lavender scent.
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf OilAn essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Eucalyptus globulus, a tall, evergreen, Australian tree with waxy leaves. It mostly consists of cineole – which has potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity.
Sodium PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PCAOne of the most important parts of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Sodium PCA is used in skincare for its fantastic humectant properties.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Aluminum Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum HydroxideA white mineral powder, also known as alumina, that is derived from aluminum metal. It is frequently used as an abrasive in exfoliating products and as a thickener. Aluminum oxide is also a great opacifier.
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-18/18 DimethiconeA silicone-based emulsifier that has the ability to create non-sticky and non-greasy formulas.
PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Tin Oxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tin OxideA multi-functional mineral that increases the physical space a product takes up, increases the viscosity of liquid products, and, when used as an opacifying agent, makes a transparent or translucent product become opaque or solid in color.
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)A red colorant also known as red iron oxide. This is an EU-approved colorant used in a wide variety of products.
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77499)A black colorant also known as black iron oxide used in a wide range of skincare products.