African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum Review

African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum
1.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.1 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Review

Does African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum has to offer:
 
  • A bit of moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 1.0 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.5 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Soothing: African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum:
 

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum is slightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 1.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product is purely humectant, but with a low Humectancy of 2.1 out of 10. It has zero Occlusivity as we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list.

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

Tip: Certain studies suggest that humectants alone may not effectively moisturize the skin. If you use this product as your only moisturizer, we recommend following it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients.

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

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.5 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Retinol (est. ≈0.1%), 
 the most effective non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. Numerous clinical studies have shown its positive effects at concentrations as low as 0.1%. A study with 36 participants (Kafi et al.) confirmed that a lotion containing 0.4% retinol reduced wrinkle severity by 21% after 24 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without retinol (vehicle).
 
Among others, African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum also contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Retinyl Palmitate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and Fucus Vesiculosus Extract. 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 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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract (est. ≈1.3%), Lepidium Sativum Sprout Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Centella Asiatica Extract (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.

Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water (est. ≈6.0%) and Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract (est. ≈3.0%).

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 AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum to your skincare routine:
 

May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol

This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

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

To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used at night, as it is sensitive to sunlight and can lose its potency when exposed to UV rays.

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

Pros & Cons of African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of African Botanics Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • 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 like Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water and Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract

Cons: 

  • May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.1
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Function:
Origin:
Sida Cordifolia Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sambucus Nigra Extract
Function:
Origin:
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Anacyclus Pyrethrum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Function:
Origin:
Lepidium Sativum Sprout Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Myrothamnus Flabellifolia Extract
Function:
Origin:
Retinyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Centella Asiatica Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Hyaluronic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Fucus Vesiculosus Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pichia/Resveratrol Ferment Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Eriocephalus Punctulatus Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
1.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.1 10
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
1.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.1 10
2.1
All humectants
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
None
All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2.5
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Retinyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Centella Asiatica Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Fucus Vesiculosus Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.1 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.1
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
1.3
Lepidium Sativum Sprout Extract
0.3
Centella Asiatica Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
0.3
Hyaluronic Acid
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
6
3
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 13 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
13
6
3
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
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.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) WaterA fragrant, astringent essential water obtained by steeping and distilling the twigs and leaves of the witch hazel plant. It leaves the skin feeling tight and refreshed after application and helps with the healing of small cuts on the skin.
Sida Cordifolia Extract
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Sida Cordifolia Extract
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) ExtractAn extract derived from cucumbers that offers soothing, cooling, and emollient properties.
Sambucus Nigra Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Sambucus Nigra Extract
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) ExtractA vibrant, purple extract obtained from the dark flowers of common mallow. Its main active ingredient is an emollient and soothing thick mucilage.
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Hedera Helix (Ivy) ExtractA soothing extract from the leaves of common ivy (not to be confused with poison ivy) that is rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and astringent triterpene saponins.
Anacyclus Pyrethrum Root Extract
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Anacyclus Pyrethrum Root Extract
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

A small synthetic peptide that is thought to act similarly to Botox by calming contractions of the facial muscles and reducing expression wrinkles. The effect is only temporary and it does not improve the skin structure in any way.

Lepidium Sativum Sprout Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lepidium Sativum Sprout ExtractA pungently fragrant extract derived from cress. It that is rich in sulfur and contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoids, carotenoids, and organic acids.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Myrothamnus Flabellifolia Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myrothamnus Flabellifolia Extract
Retinyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Retinyl PalmitateAn esterified form of retinol – it combines retinol and palmitic acid into one molecule. Retinyl palmitate is less irritating than retinol but also much less effective in its anti-aging and acne-reducing effects.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Retinol

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

Centella Asiatica Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centella Asiatica ExtractAn extract from the leaves of the Gotu kola. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. It increases the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin.
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.

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Ascorbyl PhosphateThe most researched derivative of vitamin C. It boosts collagen synthesis, thereby improving skin structure and elasticity. SAP is effective in the treatment of inflamed acne lesions and has a weak but positive effect on pigmentation issues.
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.
Hyaluronic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hyaluronic Acid

A potent, skin-identical humectant moisturizing ingredient that is able to bind water 1000 times its own weight. The anti-aging benefits of hyaluronic acid are due to its ability to stimulate the synthesis of collagen in the skin.

Fucus Vesiculosus Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Fucus Vesiculosus ExtractAn extract from a brown sea algae called bladderwrack. It was shown to increase skin elasticity in one study and boost collagen and HA production in another. Polysaccharides are able to treat irritated and dry skin.
Pichia/Resveratrol Ferment Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pichia/Resveratrol Ferment Extract
Citrus Aurantium Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Flower Extract
Eriocephalus Punctulatus Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eriocephalus Punctulatus Oil
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrasodium Glutamate DiacetateA biodegradable chelating agent that chemically captures the heavy metal ions naturally present in water and disarms their harmful effects.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) ExtractAn extract derived from rosemary leaves. It contains a fragrant essential oil and is a strong antioxidant with astringent tannins.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

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.
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.
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.

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.