Paula's Choice Defense Nightly Reconditioning Moisturizer

Paula's Choice Defense Nightly Reconditioning Moisturizer
6.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.9 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants

Review

Does Paula's Choice Defense Nightly Reconditioning Moisturizer work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Paula's Choice Defense Nightly Reconditioning Moisturizer:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Lightweight moisturizer ideal for oily skin and a humectant boost for any skincare routine

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Defense Nightly Reconditioning Moisturizer is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.9 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycerin (est. ≈9.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients. It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

Such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

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

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Paula's Choice Defense Nightly Reconditioning Moisturizer has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, and Copper Gluconate. 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 Paula's Choice Defense Nightly Reconditioning Moisturizer is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract (est. ≈1.5%), Hydrolyzed Eruca Sativa Leaf (est. ≈1.0%), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (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
60
9
6
3
2.9
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Isoamyl Laurate
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Eruca Sativa Leaf
Function:
Origin:
Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Algae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-10
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NG
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cocoyl Proline
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Trehalose
Function:
Origin:
Eclipta Prostrata Extract
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Function:
Origin:
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Alaria Esculenta Extract
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Phytosterol
Function:
Origin:
Tribehenin
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Copper Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Aspartate
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Isoamyl Cocoate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
10.5
9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.8
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 10.5 10
10.0
9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.8 20
1.9
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 10.5 10
10
All humectants
10.5
9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.8 20
1.9
All occlusives
3.8
2.0
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
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Copper Gluconate
-
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
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.3
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
1.5
Hydrolyzed Eruca Sativa Leaf
1
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
0.3
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.4 5 No
All soothing
2.4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
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.
Glycerin
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %6
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.
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerAn emulsion stabilizer and thickener that helps to create a pleasant, satiny, and light formula texture. It works by forming a gel-like network within water or oil, which both stabilizes other ingredients and produces a thickening effect.
Isoamyl Laurate
Est. %2.9
Function
Origin
Isoamyl LaurateA naturally-derived or synthetically produced ester (simple oil) and is often used as a silicone alternative. It is has a light feeling and improves the spreadability of products while making skin feel soft and non-sticky.
Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Fruit Extract
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Fruit Extract
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) OilAn emollient and occlusive oil derived from sweet almonds. It has a favorable fatty acid composition (mainly oleic and linoleic acids), and a high content of vitamin E. Almond oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) ExtractA fragrant extract with a hay-like scent derived from the alfalfa plant. It contains various antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids and saponins.
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed
Hydrolyzed Eruca Sativa Leaf
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Eruca Sativa Leaf
Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclerocarya Birrea Seed OilA famous but not well enough researched emollient fatty oil from the seeds of Marula fruits. It contains fatty acids and a lot of antioxidant and emollient phytosterols.
Hydrolyzed Algae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Algae Extract
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12

A short, synthetically made peptide similar to elastin fragments. It works as a signal peptide, stimulating the growth of skin cells and facilitating skin repair. It has been tested mostly in test-tube experiments so far.

Palmitoyl Dipeptide-10
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-10
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.

Ceramide NG
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NGA lipid that is mainly found on scalp skin and that helps with the barrier repair. It is one of the less popular ceramides and is usually used in combination with other ceramides for better barrier repair properties.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Cocoyl Proline
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cocoyl Proline
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.

Allantoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrehaloseA sweet-tasting saccharide that can be found in various yeasts and fungi and that is manufactured from starch for cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most popular sugars in skincare and is mainly used for its humectant properties.
Eclipta Prostrata Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eclipta Prostrata ExtractA soothing extract of false daisy that contains a variety of active anti-inflammatory phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenes, phytosterols, and special compounds called thiopenes.
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Azeloyl DiglycinateA modified version of azelaic acid. It reduces signs of redness, hyperpigmentation, and stinging and burning, and is better tolerated, more effective, and more easily incorporated into creams than azelaic acid.
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem ExtractA soothing and antioxidant extract from prickly pear succulent stems. These stems contain a cooling and anti-inflammatory watery gel that is similar to aloe.
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melia Azadirachta Leaf ExtractAn antimicrobial and antioxidant extract derived from Neem leaves – an Indian traditional medicine. Neem leaves have been found to possess antibacterial and antifungal activity. It is also a prospective anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment FiltrateA biotechnological fermentation ingredient that is created by feeding radish root to Leuconostoc kimchii. It allegedly contains organic acids and a mixture of peptides known as bacteriocins – which have antimicrobial activity.
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Moringa Oleifera Seed OilAn oil obtained from the seeds of Moringa oleifera, a fast-growing bush native to Northern India and the sub-Himalayan regions. It contains mainly oleic acid, as well as many additional anti-inflammatory compounds and high levels of vitamin E.
Alaria Esculenta Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alaria Esculenta ExtractDerived from badderlocks, an edible seaweed, this extract is rich in film-forming alginates. It can be used as a formula helper.
Adenosine Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine PhosphateA skin-identical molecule that plays a part in energy metabolism. It is added to anti-aging formulas and may be able to improve the appearance of wrinkles (as shown by clinical trials). It is non-irritating.
PEG-10 Phytosterol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-10 Phytosterol
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.
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Vegetable ProteinA blanket term used for plant-based proteins that have been processed into smaller chunks. They add to the skincare product's film-forming and water-binding properties.
Sorbitan Olivate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan OlivateAn ester of sorbitol (a type of sugar alcohol) and olive oil fatty acids. It is used as an emulsifying agent to stabilize oil droplets in water (or vice versa).
Sodium Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium GluconateA chelating ingredient that ensures that the harmful metal ions in a formula are unreactive. It also protects other ingredients from degrading.
Zinc Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc GluconateOne of the most commonly used ingredients in anti-acne products. It is an organic salt of zinc that helps to combat microbial infections, soothes and heals inflamed pimples, and regulates hormones in the skin.
Copper Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Copper GluconateAn organic salt of copper that can aid in the wound healing process. The manufacturer claims it also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, although this has yet to be confirmed. Copper gluconate is also a perspective anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Magnesium Aspartate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium AspartateA humectant salt of aspartic acid, a common amino acid found in the body. According to the manufacturer, magnesium aspartate in skincare products supports the supply of magnesium to skin cells.
Cetearyl Olivate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl Olivate

A multifunctional ingredient derived from plants that primarily serves as an emulsifier. Supplied as a waxy ivory-colored flake, it can also be used as an emollient and slip modifier that gives a product an overall light, silky finish.

Isoamyl Cocoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isoamyl Cocoate
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.
Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate/Caprate
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Microcrystalline CelluloseA plant-based ingredient derived from cellulose. The rough version of microcrystalline cellulose is used in scrubs instead of plastic microbeads and the finer version is used as a thickener and stabilizer and readily absorbs oil and sweat.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
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.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Butylene Glycol Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol Stearate
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.
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.