Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream Review

Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream
7.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Tocopherol, PEG-75 Stearate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Ceteth-20, Steareth-20, Xanthan Gum, Ormenis Multicaulis Oil, Disodium EDTA, Benzoic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Glutamine, Phenethyl Alcohol, Cellulose Gum, Dehydroacetic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil, Citric Acid, Cistus Incanus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaf/Stem Extract, Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Seed Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Linalool, Limonene, Geraniol
Review

Does Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream has to offer:
 
✅ Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.0 out of 10.
✅ Soothing: Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream:
 

🔵🔵 Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 7.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈6.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 4.0 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Ethylhexyl Olivate (est. ≈3.0%) and Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil (est. ≈2.5%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want maximum hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a very high concentration of humectants with a moderate amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

This product may also be a good choice for people with normal to dry skin for daily hydration.

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

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%).

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.

🔴 Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

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

Things to Be Aware Of: Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

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

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, this ingredient does 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 Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ Perfect for moisturizing normal skin
Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream
 is an ideal moisturizer for normal skin, combining a very high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients in a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy.
 
Rich in antioxidants, Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation. This product is also formulated with a high concentration of soothing ingredients, offering the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
That said, there are some things about Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Facial Hydrating Cream is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
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
Est. %
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-75 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Function:
Origin:
Ceteth-20
Function:
Origin:
Steareth-20
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Ormenis Multicaulis Oil
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Decyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Glutamine
Function:
Origin:
Phenethyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Cellulose Gum
Function:
Origin:
Dehydroacetic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Cistus Incanus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
67.2
60
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
8.1
3.0
2.5
1.3
1.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 67.2 10
10.0
60
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 8.1 20
4.0
3.0
2.5
1.3
1.0
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
60
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 67.2 10
10
All humectants
67.2
60
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
2.5
1.3
1
0.3
All occlusives 8.1 20
4.0
All occlusives
8.1
3.0
2.5
1.3
1.0
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
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
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
60
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 62.2 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
62.2
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
60
Tocopherol
1
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaf/Stem Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
60
0.3
0.3
All soothing 60.6 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
60.6
60
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %60
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceA gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
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.
Glycerin
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %4
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.
Ethylhexyl Olivate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Olivate
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) OilButyrospermum parkii oil is a liquid fraction from the more commonly used shea butter. It consists mainly of oleic acid and is used in skincare as an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient. Read more on shea butter here: Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %1.5
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.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Est. %1.3
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.
Tocopherol
Est. %1
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.

PEG-75 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-75 Stearate
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.
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.
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.

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilAn occlusive moisturizing oil expressed from soybeans. It does not leave an oily feeling on the skin due to its low content of saturated fatty acids. Glycine soja oil contains emollient fatty acids and a significant amount of antioxidants.
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.
Ceteth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceteth-20A very mild but effective polyethylene-based cleanser and emulsifier.
Steareth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Steareth-20A white to light brown reaction product of a clear gas and stearyl alcohol. Like the other steareth ingredients, steareth-20 is a waxy emulsifier that can help to form a stable emulsion, even in extreme conditions.
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.
Ormenis Multicaulis Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ormenis Multicaulis OilA fragrant essential oil isolated from the flowers of the Moroccan chamomile. The scent may vary from camphoraceous to fruity or balsamic, depending on the harvest location.
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.
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzoic AcidA preservative effective against fungi, yeast, and some bacteria. It is commonly paired with phenoxyethanol to create a broad spectrum preservation system. Benzoic acid can also serve as a pH adjuster, fragrance, and bulking agent.
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.

Decyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Decyl GlucosideA surfactant that can function as both a cleansing agent and emulsifier. As a cleansing agent, it is very mild on the skin. As an emulsifier, decyl glucoside will produce oil-in-water emulsions. It is naturally derived from vegetable oils and starch.
Glutamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlutamineA humectant moisturizing amino acid that, aside from attracting water to the skin’s surface, can also soothe allergic itching and reduce the signs of inflammation.
Phenethyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phenethyl AlcoholA multifunctional ingredient that primarily serves as a preservative. Derived from the Chinese cinnamon tree, it provides broad-spectrum protection for skincare products through its antimicrobial efficacy.
Cellulose Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cellulose GumA polymer that is derived from its namesake, cellulose, which is plant-based. It has many formula-helper benefits, including thickening and product stabilization.
Dehydroacetic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dehydroacetic AcidA globally approved preservative ingredient. It is a powerful fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it a broad-spectrum preservative. Because it is mildly effective against bacteria, it is often paired with stronger bactericides.
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.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower OilAn essential oil obtained from chamomile flowers. The oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent with a soothing scent and has a blue color due to its chamazulene content.
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.
Cistus Incanus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cistus Incanus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaf/Stem Extract
Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carum Petroselinum (Parsley) Seed Oil
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
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.
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.
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.

Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.