Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum Review

Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
7.2 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum:
 

Lightweight Moisturizer Well-Suited for Combination and Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a high humectancy of 7.2 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈3.0%) and Butylene Glycol (est. ≈2.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 3.2 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈4.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with combination and oily skin who want significant hydration in a relatively lightweight, non-greasy formula. It combines a substantial amount of humectants with a limited amount of occlusive to enhance moisturizing efficacy without feeling too heavy.

This product may also be an option for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures, as it balances significant moisturizing potential with a relatively lightweight texture.

A Humectant Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to combination and oily skin - such a humectant enhancement 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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Tocopheryl Acetate (est. ≈0.3%), 2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%), Caffeine (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.

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: Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically 2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Caffeine, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. 

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were accessible to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

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.

Pros & Cons of Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing well-suited for combination and oily skin
  • Also an option for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage

Cons: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
6
4
3
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Maltitol
Function:
Origin:
Triethylhexanoin
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Methoxysalicylate
Function:
Origin:
Polyvinyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Function:
Origin:
Batyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Behenic Acid
Function:
Origin:
PEG-60 Glyceryl Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Damascena Flower Water
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metaphosphate
Function:
Origin:
PPG-3 Dipivalate
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Hexyl Cinnamal
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Glucosamine HCl
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metabisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Angelica Keiskei Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lamium Album Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Inositol
Function:
Origin:
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:
Ziziphus Jujuba Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cellulose
Function:
Origin:
Nasturtium Officinale Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
7.2
3
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
6.5
4.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 7.2 10
7.2
3
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 6.5 20
3.2
4.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 7.2 10
7.2
All humectants
7.2
3
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 6.5 20
3.2
All occlusives
6.5
4.0
1.0
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 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
-
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
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
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
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
All antioxidants 3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Caffeine
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Sodium Metabisulfite
0.3
Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract
0.3
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
0.3
Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.8 5 No
All soothing
1.8
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.
Dipropylene Glycol
Est. %6
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %4
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.
Glycerin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Butylene Glycol
Est. %2
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.

Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Behenyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol with emollient properties. It is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener and tends to result in a product with a smooth and creamy application texture.
Maltitol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Maltitol
Triethylhexanoin
Est. %1
Function
Origin
TriethylhexanoinAn occlusive and emollient ester of glycerin and a fatty acid. It is easily spreadable and does not leave a sticky after-feel.
Potassium Methoxysalicylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Methoxysalicylate
Polyvinyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyvinyl AlcoholA synthetic polymer that thickens water to form a gel and prevents other ingredients from separating.
PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether
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.
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.
Batyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Batyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol that can co-emulsify and provide moisturization to the skin.
Behenic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenic AcidA naturally-occuring ingredient from certain plant oils, behenic acid acts as an emulsifier and surfactant and provides a soft cushiony feeling.
PEG-60 Glyceryl Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-60 Glyceryl Isostearate
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder trade secret law, manufacturers have the right not to disclose what exactly went into the fragrance and use the unspecific word Fragrance or Parfum instead. Many fragrances are highly allergenic.
Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl GlutamateAn emollient ingredient that is similar to ceramides in its structure. It provides a smooth and soft feeling to the skin.
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.
Myristyl Myristate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristyl MyristateAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient ester that is derived from vegetables. This soft, wax-like ester produces a soft and creamy sensorial profile. Myristyl myristate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
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.

Rosa Damascena Flower Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Damascena Flower WaterA fragrant water that is leftover after the steam distillation of Damask rose petals. During this process, the essential oil floats to the surface of the water and is collected. The leftover water has a fresh, rosy scent.
Potassium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium HydroxideA very alkaline ingredient, meaning that it has a high pH. Potassium hydroxide is therefore useful in bringing a low pH in a cosmetic product up to a more neutral, skin-safe level.
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
2-O-Ethyl Ascorbic AcidA derivative of vitamin C. There are no clinical studies on this ingredient as of yet, and so we don't know if it is as effective as the other ascorbic acid derivatives.
Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlcoholAn effective antimicrobial ingredient that kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. It is also an excellent solvent and astringent. Alcohol helps to create lighter and less viscous products. It can, however, be dehydrating and skin-sensitizing.
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).
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) OilAn essential oil derived from common, or true, lavender. It is used in skincare for its lovely, calming scent. Like all essential oils, however, it may cause a contact skin allergy in more sensitive individuals.
Sodium Metaphosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetaphosphateA sodium salt that captures heavy metal ions and raises the pH.
PPG-3 Dipivalate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-3 Dipivalate
Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Hexyl Cinnamal
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexyl Cinnamal

A synthetic scent ingredient that produces a jasmine-like fragrance. According to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), hexyl cinnamal is a skin sensitizer and allergen and so its use in skincare should be limited.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
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.

Glucosamine HCl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glucosamine HClA naturally occurring compound that reduces static and lowers the pH of skincare products.
Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lilium Candidum Bulb ExtractAn extract coming from Madonna lily bulbs that is rich in humectant polysaccharides and anti-inflammatory saponins.
Sodium Metabisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetabisulfiteA preservative that is especially effective at preventing fungus and mold growth. It is normally combined with a strong bactericidal preservative in order to achieve broad-spectrum protection. Sodium metabisulfite is also used as an antioxidant.
Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Angelica Acutiloba Root ExtractAngelica acutiloba root extract is a pungent, aromatic extract derived from the roots of the Japanese angelica tree. It has soothing effects and can be beneficial for itchy or allergy-prone skin [1]. It also contains antioxidants and protects the skin against UV-induced damage.
Angelica Keiskei Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Angelica Keiskei Leaf/Stem Extract
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf ExtractAn antioxidant and fragrant extract from the leaves of the olive tree. It contains a promising anti-aging compound called Oleuropein, and a prospective anti-pigment compound called Cornoside.
Lamium Album Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lamium Album Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
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.

Inositol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
InositolA humectant moisturizing, sugar-like compound that is present in all the cells of the body, but especially the brain. It is manufactured from sugar beets or carob tree pods for skincare purposes.
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower ExtractA bright orange extract obtained from the flowers of the safflower plant. It has been shown to reduce the signs of photoaging, have anti-pigment activity, and promote hair growth. The studies on humans, however, are so far lacking.
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.
Ziziphus Jujuba Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ziziphus Jujuba Leaf Extract
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.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf ExtractA soothing and astringent extract derived from the fragrant, spicy leaves of rosemary. It has strong antioxidant properties. Rosemary extract can reduce signs of inflammation and also acts as an emollient and antimicrobial agent.
Cellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CelluloseA natural ingredient that can create water-based gels, absorb oils, and exfoliate the skin. One of the main functions of cellulose is as a bulking and viscosity controlling agent. Cellulose can also modify the slip aesthetics and act as an opacifying agent.
Nasturtium Officinale Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nasturtium Officinale Leaf/Stem Extract
Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cinnamomum Cassia Bark ExtractA fragrant extract obtained from Chinese cinnamon bark with some added antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. The essential oil is responsible for its cinnamon scent.
Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bupleurum Falcatum Root ExtractDerived from the root of an Asian plant Bei Chai Hu, this soothing extract is rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory saikosaponins.