Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45

Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45
3.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
1.8 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
45
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45 work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45:

  • Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.3 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure.

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

According to CreamScan analysis, Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45 is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather occlusive. It has a low humectancy of 1.8 out of 10 and a moderate occlusivity of 4.8 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈9.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, may provide some occlusive moisturizing that is adequate for normal skin.

However, it contains a low level of humectants, and people with normal 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 Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45 has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Caffeine, and Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. 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 Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Thermus Thermophillus Ferment (est. ≈0.3%), Sodium Hyaluronate (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.

High sun protection for extended outdoor activities and exposure

With an SPF of 45, Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF 45 provides high sun protection, making it ideal for prolonged outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, sports, or spending time at the beach.

This level of SPF blocks up to 98% of UVB rays, significantly reducing the risk of sunburn. When formulated as broad-spectrum, it also protects against UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term damage.

This level of SPF is recommended for most skin types, including those with moderate sun sensitivity. For individuals with fair or very sensitive skin, or under intense sun exposure, a higher SPF of 50+ is advised.

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.

It's important to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating to maintain effectiveness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
9
6.3
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Isononyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Diethylhexyl Succinate
Function:
Origin:
Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Dipentaerythrityl Tri-Polyhydroxystearate
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyapatite
Function:
Origin:
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Function:
Origin:
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Function:
Origin:
Thermus Thermophillus Ferment
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Opuntia Tuna Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lilium Tigrinum Extract
Function:
Origin:
Algae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Ergothioneine
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Silylate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein/PVP Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate
Function:
Origin:
Stearalkonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Cyclodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Red 28 Lake (CI 45410)
Function:
Origin:
Blue 1 (CI 42090)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
1.8
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
9.6
9.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 1.8 10
1.8
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 9.6 20
4.8
9.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 1.8 10
1.8
All humectants
1.8
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 9.6 20
4.8
All occlusives
9.6
9.0
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
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
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
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
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
Thermus Thermophillus Ferment
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Algae Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Caffeine
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Ergothioneine
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
0.3
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
0.3
BHT
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.5 5 No
All soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %9
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.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %6.3
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.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Butyloctyl SalicylateA synthetic emollient and solvent. It is primarily used as a carrier oil to disperse minerals in, including pigments and sunscreen minerals. It can also absorb UV light, thus boosting the SPF of sunscreen products.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Methyl Trimethicone
Est. %2
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.
Isononyl Isononanoate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Isononyl IsononanoateAn ester of a branched fatty acid with a branched fatty alcohol. It is an easily spreadable emollient that has a silky, dry, non-greasy feel on the skin.
Diethylhexyl Succinate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Diethylhexyl Succinate
Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Neopentyl Glycol DiheptanoateAn emollient ester with an exceptionally lightweight feel. It absorbs quickly and produces a silky feel with excellent spreadability. It also serves as an excellent solvent and is commonly used to suspend sunscreen actives.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
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.

Dipentaerythrityl Tri-Polyhydroxystearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipentaerythrityl Tri-Polyhydroxystearate
Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Silica
Est. %0.3
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.
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrimethylsiloxysilicateAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient silicone resin that smoothes and softens the appearance of the skin. It also protects a product from rinsing away too easily with water, sweat, or friction.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeA silicone-based powerful emulsifier that helps to create lightweight and pleasant feeling lotions and creams.
Hydroxyapatite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyapatite
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Opuntia Tuna Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Opuntia Tuna Leaf Extract
Lilium Tigrinum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lilium Tigrinum Extract
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.
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.

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.
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).
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.

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.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Dimethicone Silylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone Silylate
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein/PVP Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein/PVP Crosspolymer
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone Crosspolymer-3
Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate
Stearalkonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearalkonium Hectorite
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.
Isostearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isostearic AcidA saturated fatty acid used to mix oil and water and to remove dirt from the skin's surface. Isostearic acid is listed among common comedogenic ingredients by acne.org.
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.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. According to a recent clinical study, THDA has all the capabilities of regular vitamin C, including anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment activity.
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.
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.
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
Cyclodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyclodextrinA naturally derived ingredient with the ability to absorb other compounds and remove harmful metal ions from water.
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 CrosspolymerA self-emulsifying surfactant, which means that it can help facilitate the formation of water-in-silicone emulsions. This results in lightweight formulas with a soft finish. It can also act as a film-former and thickener.
Isopropyl Myristate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl MyristateA fast-spreading, cost-effective, non-greasy emollient that is typically used for lubrication, spreadability, or to remove “tackiness” from a product. Isopropyl Myristate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
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.
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.
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.
Red 28 Lake (CI 45410)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Red 28 Lake (CI 45410)
Blue 1 (CI 42090)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Blue 1 (CI 42090)A synthetic dye commonly known as Brilliant Blue FCF that produces rich blue colors for various cosmetic uses. FD&C Blue #1 can also be found in foods, medications, and dietary supplements, as it is considered non-toxic and safe for use.