Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation

Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation
7.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
9.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants

Review

Does Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.3 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

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

According to CreamScan analysis, Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 7.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a moderate humectancy of 5.4 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%), and a very high occlusivity of 9.2 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Phenyl Trimethicone (est. ≈9.0%) and Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver a substantial level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry skin. The occlusive profile of Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

However, it contains a moderate 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, Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, and Ascorbyl Palmitate. 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.

Rich in skin-protecting antioxidants

We estimate that Estee Lauder Futurist Aqua Brilliance Foundation is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Sodium Hyaluronate (est. ≈0.3%), Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract (est. ≈0.3%), and others.

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
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
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. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Phenyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Octinoxate
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Isocetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Isohexadecane
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Sulfate
Function:
Origin:
Tribehenin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Yeast Extract
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Methyldihydrojasmonate
Function:
Origin:
Triethyl Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Cholesterol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Silica Dimethyl Silylate
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Laureth-7
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Linoleic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Calcium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Sulfate
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Nitrate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyacetophenone
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Dehydroacetate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
18.3
9.0
6.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.4 10
5.4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 18.3 20
9.2
9.0
6.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.4 10
5.4
All humectants
5.4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
6
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 18.3 20
9.2
All occlusives
18.3
9.0
6.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
-
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract
0.3
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract
0.3
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract
0.3
Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract
0.3
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
0.3
Hydroxyacetophenone
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
BHT
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.9 5 No
All soothing
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %55
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.
Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Phenyl TrimethiconeA silicone fluid that is used as an occlusive moisturizer. It applies smoothly to the skin and reduces the tack associated with organic oils.
Dimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Methyl Trimethicone
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Methyl TrimethiconeA lightweight and volatile silicone known for its excellent solvency. This silicone has a silky, cushiony feel with excellent lubricity and is commonly used as an emollient in silicone-based skincare products.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Octinoxate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
OctinoxateA chemical sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate. It protects against UVB, which causes the skin to burn and tan and can lead to certain types of skin cancers. For broad-spectrum protection claims, octinoxate should be paired with a UVA sunscreen.
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-18/18 DimethiconeA silicone-based emulsifier that has the ability to create non-sticky and non-greasy formulas.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %1.5
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.
Isocetyl Alcohol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Isocetyl Alcohol
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Est. %1
Function
Origin
PEG-10 DimethiconeA polyethylene-based emulsifying ingredient. It has a water-loving portion and an oil-loving portion that help to keep the water and oil phases connected to form an emulsion.
Isohexadecane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
IsohexadecaneA clear, colorless liquid that is commonly used as an emollient. It is made up of pure hydrocarbons and leaves a dry feeling on the skin upon application. It also increases the spreadability of a product.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
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.
Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan SesquioleateA natural liquid ingredient that is yellow to amber in color and completely transparent. It supports oil and water mixtures and disperses minerals into oils.
Magnesium Sulfate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium SulfateA naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used in skincare products as a bulking agent. It helps to control the viscosity of products by making them thicker.
Tribehenin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TribeheninA soft, pliable wax that serves as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It improves the spreadability of skincare products, including the increased payoff of stick products, and imparts a pleasant, smooth feel upon application.
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.

Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf ExtractA prospective anti-wrinkle extract derived from a rare plant – the Orpheus flower. Studies have shown that it increases skin elasticity and promotes collagen production. It also contains moisturizing polysaccharides.
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root ExtractA purple-red extract with antioxidant activity that is obtained from red beetroot.
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit ExtractObtained from the fruits of the lowbush blueberry, this purple-blue extract is rich in antioxidant vitamin C and anthocyanins.
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit ExtractA bright red extract derived from cranberry fruits that is rich in powerful antioxidant anthocyanins, as well as astringent tannins.
Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ulmus Davidiana Root ExtractDerived from the root of an elm tree known as David, this soothing and antioxidant extract has been shown to have humectant moisturizing benefits that are similar to hyaluronic acid’s.
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from the berries of the bilberry plant, sometimes called European blueberry. It is rich in antioxidant anthocyanins and astringent tannins.
Yeast Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yeast ExtractAlso labeled as faex extract, this is a natural ingredient derived from fresh yeast. It is used in skincare as a humectant. Yeast extract also helps to shield injured or exposed skin and can aid in the skin’s wound healing process.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

A small peptide consisting of three amino acids with anti-wrinkle effects. Together with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, it is a part of the popular anti-wrinkle complex called Matrixyl™ 3000.

Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Methyldihydrojasmonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyldihydrojasmonate
Triethyl Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Triethyl Citrate
Methicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethiconeA silicone oil that can function as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. Occasionally, methicone is used as a surface modifier for various pigments to improve the longevity and vibrancy of colorants.
Cholesterol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CholesterolAn emollient and important barrier repairing lipid, effective when combined with fatty acids and ceramides. Around 25% of the skin’s lipid layer is made up of cholesterol and it is found in the membrane of every single cell in our body.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl PalmitateA rich emollient without the oily after-feel, making it a popular replacement for mineral oil. It is derived from natural sources such as palm oil and palm kernel oil. Ethylhexyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
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.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Silica Dimethyl Silylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silica Dimethyl SilylateA synthetic 'filler' powder primarily used as a formula helper. It is added in skincare products to adjust their consistency and thickness.
Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
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.
Laureth-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laureth-7A mild but effective functional ingredient. It can emulsify (efficiently mix water and oil) without needing too much in a formula.
Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disteardimonium HectoriteA clay ingredient that functions primarily as a viscosity controlling agent that thickens all types of formulas. Disteardimonium hectorite imparts a smooth, velvety feel, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Linoleic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Linoleic AcidA fatty acid isolated from various plant oils (notably evening primrose, safflower, grape seed, and sunflower oil). It is an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that doesn't leave an oily, sticky residue and is especially suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
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.
Sorbitan Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan StearateA vegetable-derived ingredient most commonly used as an emulsifier to stabilize water and oil mixtures.
Sorbitan Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan IsostearateA mild yet powerful emulsifier primarily utilized to produce water-in-oil emulsions. It helps to create a particularly rich and substantial emulsion.
Calcium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Calcium ChlorideA salt that can stabilize emulsions through thickening. It also serves as an astringent.
Sodium Sulfate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium SulfateAn inorganic sodium salt that provides volume and thickens emulsions.
Magnesium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium ChlorideA chloride salt with a bitter taste and the ability to thicken water-in-oil emulsions.
Potassium Nitrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Nitrate
Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium PhosphateA salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
Hydroxyacetophenone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HydroxyacetophenoneAn antioxidant compound that can be found in many plants, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It can boost the preservative action of other conservants.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BHTAn antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor.
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl PalmitateA form of vitamin C derived from ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. Unfortunately, Ascorbyl Palmitate lacks the studies to prove its anti-wrinkle efficacy.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Sodium Dehydroacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium DehydroacetateA sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid that is most commonly used as a preservative. It is a strong fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it an effective broad-spectrum preservative.
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.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
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.