BRTC Pore Tightening Serum Review

BRTC Pore Tightening Serum
5.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does BRTC Pore Tightening Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what BRTC Pore Tightening Serum has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of BRTC Pore Tightening Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using BRTC Pore Tightening Serum:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, BRTC Pore Tightening Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%), Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%) and Xylitol (est. ≈2.0%).

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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that BRTC Pore Tightening Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract (est. ≈1.3%), Hyaluronic Acid (est. ≈0.3%), Camellia Sinensis Leaf 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 AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: BRTC Pore Tightening Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding BRTC Pore Tightening Serum to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing BRTC Pore Tightening 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 Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Gluconolactone, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8. 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 BRTC Pore Tightening Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of BRTC Pore Tightening Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • Lightweight texture
  • A humectant moisturizing boost for any skincare routine
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution

Cons: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Xylitol
Function:
Origin:
PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Arginine
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Diethoxyethyl Succinate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
PPG-26-Buteth-26
Function:
Origin:
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Menthoxypropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Menthol
Function:
Origin:
Hyaluronic Acid
Function:
Origin:
PEG-180
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Carboxymethyl Chitin
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Gluconolactone
Function:
Origin:
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower/Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Borago Officinalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Oleate
Function:
Origin:
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract
Function:
Origin:
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Resveratrol
Function:
Origin:
Zanthoxylum Schinifolium Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
15.6
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 15.6 10
10.0
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 15.6 10
10
All humectants
15.6
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
All occlusives
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
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Gluconolactone
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
-
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract
1.3
Hyaluronic Acid
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Borago Officinalis Extract
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract
0.3
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
0.3
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract
0.3
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
Resveratrol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.4 5 No
All soothing
3.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %6
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. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Alcohol
Est. %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.
Xylitol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
XylitolAn organic compound that is most well-known for its use as a sweetener that also protects your teeth from cavities. Xylitol is used in skincare as a moisturizing humectant and has been shown to improve the protective barrier function of the skin.
PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
PEG/PPG-17/6 CopolymerA synthetic polymer that has many uses. It can help add slip by itself and also supports silicone-based ingredients in various products.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig Extract
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Bark/Leaf/Twig ExtractHamamelis virginiana bark/leaf/twig extract is an extract obtained from the leaves, twigs, and bark of Witch Hazel branches. The extract has antioxidant, astringent and soothing effects on your skin. Read about a very similar extract here: Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %1
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.
Sodium PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PCAOne of the most important parts of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Sodium PCA is used in skincare for its fantastic humectant properties.
Arginine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ArginineA humectant amino acid used to attract water to the skin’s surface. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Arginine can also be used as a pH adjuster.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
Diethoxyethyl Succinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethoxyethyl Succinate
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.
PPG-26-Buteth-26
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-26-Buteth-26A water-loving surfactant, which means it can act as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and cleansing agent. As an emulsifier, it helps to create oil-in-water emulsions.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateA licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
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.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil

A fragrant essential oil extracted from the rind or peel of a lemon. It is mainly comprised of limonene (up to 70%) and has a fresh, citrusy scent. Lemon peel oil may cause a sun-induced skin rash in people with a sensitivity towards citrus fruits.

PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor OilA castor oil-derived ingredient often used to incorporate small amounts of oil (such as a fragrance) into a water-based product. PEG-4 HCO is a gold-standard solubilizer and can be used in low amounts due to its ability to solubilize things so well.
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.
Menthoxypropanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Menthoxypropanediol
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer
Menthol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MentholA volatile compound isolated from peppermint oil. It causes a cooling sensation on the skin that can be very soothing. Menthol can also act as a topical painkiller. In more sensitive individuals, however, it may cause skin irritation or an allergy.
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.

PEG-180
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-180
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.
Carboxymethyl Chitin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carboxymethyl Chitin
Propanediol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.

Gluconolactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GluconolactoneA PHA derived from glucose. It has exfoliating and humectant properties and acts as a penetration enhancer for other ingredients. It has also been shown to assist in the treatment of acne and the prevention of photoaging.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower/Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower/Leaf Extract
Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract
Borago Officinalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Borago Officinalis Extract
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.
Sodium Oleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium OleateSodium oleate is a sodium salt of oleic acid. It has the typical properties of soap: it foams in water and emulsifies oil into tiny droplets. It comes in the form of a white powder and is used in skincare products exactly as you would expect – as a cleanser and emulsifier.
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) ExtractA soothing extract from the clary sage plant that contains fragrant terpenoids used to relieve the symptoms of seborrhea. It is also rich in astringent tannins.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Water
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.
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centaurea Cyanus Flower ExtractObtained from the cornflower, this extract contains antioxidant and astringent protocyanin, anthocyanins, flavonoids, and organic acids.
Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed ExtractAn antioxidant and emollient extract derived from coffee beans. It has been proven to improve collagen and elastin production in the skin. A small clinical study tested the anti-aging effects of coffee berry extract, and the results were very promising.
Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit ExtractAn extract obtained from the skin and pulp of grapes. Grape skin and pulp contain antioxidant and astringent flavonoids and tannins, famous resveratrol, and many different organic and phenolic acids.
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of the Japanese knotweed, a plant from East Asia that has spread around the world as an invasive plant. It contains various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-pigment (more tests are necessary) phytochemicals.
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.
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.
Resveratrol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ResveratrolA famous plant-based polyphenol found mainly in red grapes. It is a potent antioxidant, soothing, and wound healing ingredient.
Zanthoxylum Schinifolium Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zanthoxylum Schinifolium Leaf Extract
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.

Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Alcohol

A multifunctional ingredient that is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid. Its main function is as a flavoring agent and fragrance. It also acts as a broad-spectrum preservative, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent that thins the product.