Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion Review

Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion
6.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.7 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Ingredients

Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion Ingredients

Hover to see details. On mobile? Tap for ingredient stories!

Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Glycerin, C14-22 Alcohols, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cetyl Alcohol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Caffeine, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Algae Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Algin, Sea Salt, Sclerotium Gum, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Laurate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil, Dimethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Fragrance, Linalool, Citronellol, Citral, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Geraniol, Phenoxyethanol
Review

Does Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion has to offer:
 
✅ Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.8 out of 10.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion:
 

🔵 Lightweight Moisturizer Perfect for Combination and Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.8 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 Glycerin (est. ≈9.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 3.7 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈4.0%).

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

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

💧 A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to combination and 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.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil (est. ≈1.3%), Caffeine (est. ≈0.3%), Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel 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.

📌 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: Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

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

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Caffeine 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 Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing perfect for combination and oily skin
✅ Also a good choice for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, 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
   

Summary: Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, perfect for combination and oily skin. It's also a great option for those with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.
 
With its high antioxidant content, Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion 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.
 
That said, there are some things about Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Aveda Botanical Kinetics Hydrating Lotion 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
65
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
0.15
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
C14-22 Alcohols
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Algae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Function:
Origin:
Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Algin
Function:
Origin:
Sea Salt
Function:
Origin:
Sclerotium Gum
Function:
Origin:
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Laurate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Olive Oil
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxycitronellal
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
10.5
9
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
7.4
4.0
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.8
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 7.4 20
3.7
4.0
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.8
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
4
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 7.4 20
3.7
All occlusives
7.4
4.0
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Caffeine
-
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
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.1 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.1
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
1.3
Caffeine
0.3
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
0.3
Algae Extract
0.3
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
0.3
Hydrolyzed Algin
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.6 5 No
All soothing
0.6
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.
Glycerin
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

C14-22 Alcohols
Est. %6
Function
Origin
C14-22 AlcoholsA naturally-derived emulsion stabilizer that has a light feel. It is not a drying alcohol, in fact the emulsions it helps create can make the skin feel soft and cushioned.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %4
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.
Isopropyl Palmitate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl PalmitateAn emollient ester of palmitic acid and isopropanol that gives the skin a smooth, soft, dry, non-oily after-feel. Isopropyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %2.5
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.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA naturally-derived emollient ester. It is a blend of caprylates and caprates and, relative to other emollients, is lightweight and dry on the skin. As a result, coco-caprylate/caprate serves as a natural alternative to volatile silicones.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil

A famous olive oil widely used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive moisturizer. It contains mainly unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant flavonoids, and oleuropeins. Olive oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.

Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
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).
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel ExtractA beneficial extract obtained from Oat groats popular in products aimed at eczema-prone skin. It contains skin healing beta-glucan, anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds, antioxidant flavonoids, various lipids, proteins, and moisturizing amino acids.
Algae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Algae ExtractThe name describes any extract made from any kind of algae. Algae extracts are moisturizing humectants – the gelatin-like polysaccharides bind and retain water, thereby hydrating the skin. Algae is a rich source of emollient and antioxidant compounds.
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chlorella Vulgaris ExtractA dried mass of tiny, single-cell green algae. It is widely used as a food source or dietary supplement since it is rich in proteins, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. This dark green extract is used as an antioxidant agent in skincare.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil Unsaponifiables
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil UnsaponifiablesA fraction of olive oil that contains occlusive moisturizing and emollient sterols, vitamin E, pro-vitamin A, and fatty alcohols.
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.
Hydrolyzed Algin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed AlginA humectant moisturizing mixture of algae-based polysaccharides, also known as alginate, that have undergone the process of hydrolysis.
Sea Salt
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sea SaltA mixture of minerals from saltwater. The studies show that sea salt may help to restore skin health by improving skin barrier function, improving moisturization, reducing inflammation, and reducing skin roughness and redness.
Sclerotium Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclerotium GumA thickener with a silky, velvety feel that many manufacturers use as an alternative to silicones.
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Glyceryl Laurate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl LaurateA naturally-derived ester that can soften the appearance of skin and blend oils with water.
Hydrogenated Olive Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Olive OilA transformed olive oil that is rich in occlusive moisturizing oleic and linoleic fatty acids. It also helps to thicken a formula.
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.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
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.

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.
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.
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.

Citral
Est. %0.15
Function
Origin
Citral

A fragrant compound found in many essential oils (especially lemon myrtle and lemongrass essential oil). It has a sweet, lemon-like scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citral, or at least do a patch test before using.

Hydroxycitronellal
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxycitronellal

A fragrant compound with a scent reminiscent of lilies and sweet tropical melon. It can be found in many different essential oils (such as palmarosa, ylang-ylang, and lemongrass essential oil) but is manufactured synthetically from citronellal.

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.

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.