Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 Review

Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50
1.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
3.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
50
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 has to offer:
 
  • A bit of moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 1.8 out of 10.
  • Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.6 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Key Benefits of Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50:
 

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 is slightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 1.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.3 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 3.4 out of 10, primarily due to Butylene Glycol (est. ≈1.3%), Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈0.3%) and Alcaligenes Polysaccharides (est. ≈0.3%).

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

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

Slight Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 0.6 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (est. ≈0.3%), 
 the only derivative of ascorbic acid with solid evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy. A single clinical study involving 23 participants (Mariko et al.) demonstrated that a cream with 1% ATIP reduced the average depth of periorbital wrinkles by 6% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ATIP).
 
Among others, Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 also contains contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Caffeine, 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 contribute to 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 Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Thermus Thermophillus Ferment (est. ≈0.3%), Polygonum Cuspidatum Root 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.

Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, all skin types, and high-risk conditions

With an SPF of 50, Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 provides very high sun protection, suitable for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, beach vacations, or high-altitude environments.

This level of SPF blocks 98% or more of UVB rays, offering the highest level of defense against sunburn. Broad-spectrum formulations also provide strong protection against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, pigmentation, and DNA damage.

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 is ideal for all skin types, particularly fair, sensitive, or post-treatment skin (e.g., after laser or chemical procedures). It is also highly recommended for individuals at greater risk of skin cancer.

For extended outdoor activities or water exposure, choose a water-resistant formula and reapply every two hours for maximum effectiveness.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 to your skincare routine:
 

As a Standalone Moisturizer, It Has Relatively Low Moisturizing Potential

If you use Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 for moisturizing purposes, please keep in mind that it provides relatively light moisturizing on its own, and, more importantly, it’s not optimal for any skin type.

On one hand, it has low occlusivity, which suits oily and combination skin. On the other hand, it has a low estimated concentration of humectants, which are essential for effective moisturizing of all skin types, including oily skin.

Therefore, if used as a standalone moisturizer, this product should be paired with a humectant-rich moisturizer for optimal skin hydration.

Pros & Cons of Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense Aqua UV Gel SPF 50 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine
  • Provides slight anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution
  • Provides very high sun protection, ideal for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude environments, and beach vacations, suitable for all skin types

Cons: 

  • Minimal moisturizing efficacy, even for oily skin - something to keep in mind if this is your only moisturizer in your routine

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
7.5
5
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Oxybenzone
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Thermus Thermophillus Ferment
Function:
Origin:
Alcaligenes Polysaccharides
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Opuntia Tuna Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lilium Tigrinum Extract
Function:
Origin:
Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Cholesterol
Function:
Origin:
Ergothioneine
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Dextrin Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Algae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbeth-30 Tetraisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Dehydroxanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
PPG-8-Ceteth-20
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Cyclodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
3.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
1.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 3.4 10
3.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
1.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 3.4 10
3.4
All humectants
3.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
2 /10 1 0.3 0.6
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0.6
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
0.6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2 /10
when present at, %
1
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Caffeine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0.6
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
All antioxidants 3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Thermus Thermophillus Ferment
0.3
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
Caffeine
0.3
Ergothioneine
0.3
Algae Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.1 5 No
All soothing
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
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.
Homosalate
Est. %7.5
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %5
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Octisalate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
OctisalateA UVB sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl salicylate. It is normally paired with UVA sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octisalate also protects other ingredients, like colorants and antioxidants, from deterioration due to exposure to UV light.
Avobenzone
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
AvobenzoneA popular sunscreen that protects against UVA rays, which cause premature aging and skin cancer. Avobenzone degrades after about 30 minutes of sun exposure and becomes ineffective. It is therefore often paired with UV-filter stabilizers such as octocrylene.
Oxybenzone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
OxybenzoneA chemical sunscreen that protects against burning caused by UVB radiation.
Octocrylene
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1.3
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.

Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %1
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.
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.

Thermus Thermophillus Ferment
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Thermus Thermophillus FermentA biotech ingredient that contains proteins, amino acids, and various biological factors. It is claimed to be a soothing and antioxidant compound.
Alcaligenes Polysaccharides
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alcaligenes PolysaccharidesProduced by a bacterial culture called Alcaligenes latus, this is a humectant moisturizing and gel-forming polysaccharide mixture.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Anthemis Nobilis Flower ExtractAn antioxidant and soothing flower extract derived from Roman chamomile. It contains an essential oil that gives it a sweet and floral aroma.
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ ExtractAn emollient extract obtained from the germ part of the wheat grain. It contains proteins, fatty acids, vitamins E and B, as well as various other antioxidants. It has been claimed to have anti-pigment activity.
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of the Japanese knotweed, a plant from East Asia that has spread around the world as an invasive plant. It contains various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-pigment (more tests are necessary) phytochemicals.
Opuntia Tuna Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Opuntia Tuna Leaf Extract
Lilium Tigrinum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lilium Tigrinum Extract
Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laminaria Ochroleuca ExtractDerived from a species of edible brown seaweed known as golden kelp, this extract contains many different moisturizing and gel-forming polysaccharides, antioxidant compounds, and minerals.
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hordeum Vulgare ExtractA soothing and emollient extract derived from barley, a cereal grain commonly used in the breadmaking and beer fermentation process. It contains a beneficial polysaccharide called beta-glucan, as well as flavonoids and organic acids.
Sucrose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SucroseThis ingredient is more commonly known as table sugar or saccharose and is derived from sugar beets or sugar cane. It is used as a humectant moisturizing ingredient in skincare products, as well as a sweetener.
Caffeine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CaffeineAn antioxidant compound that is obtained from coffee and tea leaves. It increases the microcirculation of blood in the skin and is claimed to be able to reduce the appearance of orange peel skin (although the research is lacking).
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.
Ergothioneine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ErgothioneineA naturally-occurring amino acid that functions as a powerful and versatile antioxidant.
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Dextrin Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dextrin Palmitate
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl StearateAn emollient and emulsifier typically derived from vegetable sources through a chemical reaction with glycerin. It provides stability, texture, and consistency to formulations. Its main function is to allow oil and water to mix.
Algae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Algae ExtractThe name describes any extract made from any kind of algae. Algae extracts are moisturizing humectants – the gelatin-like polysaccharides bind and retain water, thereby hydrating the skin. Algae is a rich source of emollient and antioxidant compounds.
Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates CopolymerA highly functional synthetic ingredient that forms a protective layer on the skin and reduces static buildup. It gives an emollient feel to the product, including a silky after-feel.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
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.

Sorbeth-30 Tetraisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbeth-30 Tetraisostearate
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Dipropylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipropylene GlycolA clear, colorless liquid that has several uses. One of its main functions is as a solvent. Dipropylene glycol is also used to reduce the thickness of skincare products.
Dehydroxanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dehydroxanthan Gum
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (ATIP) is an oil-soluble derivative of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C. It is more stable than ascorbic acid, with studies supporting its collagen-boosting and anti-pigment effects.

Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
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.

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
PPG-8-Ceteth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-8-Ceteth-20
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Cyclodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyclodextrinA naturally derived ingredient with the ability to absorb other compounds and remove harmful metal ions from water.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salicylic AcidThis effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.
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.