A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream Review

A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Review

Does A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.6 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.

Key Benefits of A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.3 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%).

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.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - 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.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.6 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈1.3%),
     one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
  • Glycolic Acid (est. ≈1.9%),
     a highly effective ingredient in peelings but with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy in leave-on skincare products, as supported by a single clinical study. This study, involving 72 participants (Thibault et al.), demonstrated that a lotion with 5% GA reduced the fine wrinkling score by 6% after 34 days of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without GA).
Among others, A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream also contains Adenosine, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Adenosine provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does 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.

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: A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream to your skincare routine:
 

May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Glycolic Acid

This product contains glycolic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to exfoliate and brighten the skin. Its action works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is particularly vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with glycolic acid, regardless of concentration, may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To counteract this increased sun sensitivity, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to protect your skin during glycolic acid treatment.

Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the product, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of A'Pieu Glycolic Acid Cream to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy

Cons: 

  • May increase skin photosensitivity due to glycolic acid

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
9
6
2
1.9
1.8
1.7
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
Est. %
Betula Alba Juice
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Glycolic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glycereth-26
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Beeswax
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 60
Function:
Origin:
Cyclohexasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Stearate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-240/HDI Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyacetophenone
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Isohexadecane
Function:
Origin:
PEG-2M
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose Distearate
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 80
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Oleate
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Pantolactone
Function:
Origin:
Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.5
6
1.7
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.5 10
10.0
6
1.7
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
1.7
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.5 10
10
All humectants
11.5
6
1.7
1.3
1
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
6 /10 4 1.3 2
1.5 /10 5 1.9 0.6
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2.6
Niacinamide
2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.3
Glycolic Acid
0.6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
1.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
1.9
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.5 3 No
All antioxidants
2.5
Niacinamide
1.3
Hydroxyacetophenone
0.3
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract
0.3
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract
0.3
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.8 5 No
All soothing
2.8
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Betula Alba Juice
Est. %65
Function
Origin
Betula Alba Juice
Water
Est. %9
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.
Propanediol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Tromethamine
Est. %2
Function
Origin
TromethamineAn ingredient based on amino acids that is commonly used as a pH adjuster. It has a high pH, which means that it is basic (alkaline), so adding tromethamine to a skincare product will increase its overall pH level.
Glycolic Acid
Est. %1.9
Function
Origin
Glycolic Acid

The second most used AHA (after lactic acid) known for its potent exfoliating and smoothing effects. It increases skin cell turnover, which is beneficial for treating acne. When used in peels, glycolic acid has confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy, though it is less effective in leave-on products like creams and serums.

Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %1.8
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
Glycereth-26
Est. %1.7
Function
Origin
Glycereth-26

A glycerin-based ingredient with humectant moisturizing properties. It is an excellent emulsifier and thickener.

1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Niacinamide
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Butylene Glycol
Est. %1
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.

Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyclopentasiloxaneA lightweight, fast-spreading emollient that leaves a very soft and silky after-feel on the skin. Supplied as a clear and colorless liquid, cyclopentasiloxane is often used as a solvent to dissolve other silicones in.
Beeswax
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BeeswaxA waxy substance made by bees while they are building their honeycombs. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient with wound healing and antimicrobial properties similar to those of honey. Its bleached, purified form is called Cera alba.
Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Polysorbate 60
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 60An ester based on sorbitan. It is good for emulsifying water and oils together – specifically making oil-in-water emulsions. Polysorbate 60 is also said to give a product a notable fragrance.
Cyclohexasiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyclohexasiloxaneA clear silicone fluid with very low viscosity that is commonly used as a solvent and emollient. It has excellent spreadability, rubs in quickly, and leaves a silky smooth after-feel on 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.
PEG-240/HDI Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-240/HDI Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether
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.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
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.
Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract
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.
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.
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerA multi-functional ingredient that forms a polymeric network, thereby thickening the formula and preventing other ingredients from shifting around.
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 StearateThis surfactant is more specifically classified as an emulsifier that produces oil-in-water emulsions. PEG-100 stearate can also be used as a cleansing agent.
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.
PEG-2M
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-2M
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.
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.
Sucrose Distearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sucrose Distearate
Polysorbate 80
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 80A non-ionic surfactant, which means that it contains no chemical charges. It can be used as a mild cleansing agent in skin cleansing products but is more commonly used for its emulsifying abilities.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Sorbitan Oleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan OleateA vegetable-based ingredient that stabilizes mixtures of oil and water. Sorbitan oleate serves primarily as an emulsifier that produces water-in-oil emulsions.
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.
Pantolactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PantolactoneA vitamin B5 derivative. Similar to panthenol, it has several benefits as an antioxidant and humectant. However, it is less reactive and therefore products can stay stable longer.
Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract
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.
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from pineapple fruits that contains various antioxidants, vitamin C, and bromelain - an enzyme mixture that acts as a mild exfoliant. Bromelain also has some anti-inflammatory activity and may help with the healing of wounds and scars.
Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alchemilla Vulgaris ExtractA soothing extract that is derived from the lady's mantle plant. It contains plenty of astringent tannins and certain anti-inflammatory compounds.
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arnica Montana Flower ExtractAn extract derived from the flower heads of the mountain arnica plant. This plant is used as herbal medicine to treat wounds, bruises, and inflammation. In skincare, however, it is mostly added for fragrance purposes due to its pleasant pine and sage odor.
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit ExtractDerived from the golden kiwi fruit, this extract is rich in humectant polysaccharides and antioxidant organic acids, as well as phenolic compounds.
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from apple fruit that has humectant moisturizing and antioxidant properties, as well as gentle anti-pigment effects. It contains humectant sugars, anti-pigment organic acids, and flavonoids.
Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract