Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel Review

Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel
2.9
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.3 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.6 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
6.3Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Ingredients

Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Diisopropyl Adipate, Ethylhexyl Cocoate, Caprylic Acid, Niacinamide, Alcohol Denat., Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ethoxydiglycol, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Bakuchiol, Cellulose, Glycerin, Xylitol, Dimethicone, PEG-100 Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Retinol, Phospholipids, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Zinc PCA, Xanthan Gum, Allantoin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, o-Cymen-5-ol, Calcium Gluconate, Lactic Acid, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil, Menthol, Menthyl Lactate, Ascorbyl Palmitate
Review

Does Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 2.9 out of 10.
✅ Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 6.3 out of 10, Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel:
 

🔵 Lightweight Moisturizer Suitable for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 2.9 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.6 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 5.3 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%).

This product, when used alone as a moisturizer, can provide light humectant hydration in a fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients. This could work for people with oily skin who need a basic level of hydration.

💧  A Humectant Add-on for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - since it contains a moderate amount of humectants, such a humectant add-on will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer.

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

🟣🟣 Significant Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 6.3 out of 10.

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

1️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%),
 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).
 
2️⃣ 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, Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel also contains contains Bakuchiol and Ascorbyl Palmitate, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. 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 rule out 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 available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
 
Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%).

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: Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel 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 Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides moderate humectant moisturizing suitable for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
Delivers signficant anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Niacinamide and Retinol
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol
   

Summary: Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel
 is specifically effective in treating wrinkles, containing ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy.
 

When used alone, it provides lightweight, moderate humectant moisturizing, making it suitable for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it offers a subtle humectant enhancement, beneficial for all skin types.

With its high antioxidant content, Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel 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 Canova Retinpil Normalizing Cream-Gel worth noting.
 
This product contains retinol, the most powerful and well-researched non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. However, retinol can make your skin more prone to sun damage and increase sensitivity, so it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment.
 
📌 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
7.5
5
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
0.1
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Diisopropyl Adipate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Cocoate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Ethoxydiglycol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Cellulose
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Xylitol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Phospholipids
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
Function:
Origin:
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide
Function:
Origin:
Zinc PCA
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Function:
Origin:
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Function:
Origin:
o-Cymen-5-ol
Function:
Origin:
Calcium Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Function:
Origin:
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Menthol
Function:
Origin:
Menthyl Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.3
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
1.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
2.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.3 10
5.3
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 1.2 20
0.6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
2.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.3 10
5.3
All humectants
5.3
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 1.2 20
0.6
All occlusives
1.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 2.5 3.8
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
6.3
Niacinamide
3.8
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2.5
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Bakuchiol
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
6.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.6 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.6
Niacinamide
2.5
Bakuchiol
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
0.3
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract
0.3
o-Cymen-5-ol
0.3
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
0.3
Ascorbyl Palmitate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 4 5 No
All soothing
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
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.
Diisopropyl Adipate
Est. %7.5
Function
Origin
Diisopropyl AdipateA synthetic oil-like ingredient with a light feel and softening effect not just on skin, but for products as a whole.
Ethylhexyl Cocoate
Est. %5
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Cocoate
Caprylic Acid
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Caprylic Acid
Niacinamide
Est. %2.5
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.

Alcohol Denat.
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

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.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %1.3
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.
Ethoxydiglycol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
EthoxydiglycolA type of alcohol with humectant moisturizing properties. It also acts as a solvent, since it mixes well with a variety of other compounds, including water and even some oils.
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Azeloyl DiglycinateA modified version of azelaic acid. It reduces signs of redness, hyperpigmentation, and stinging and burning, and is better tolerated, more effective, and more easily incorporated into creams than azelaic acid.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
Bakuchiol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BakuchiolA newly discovered bioactive obtained from the seeds of Babchi. It boosts collagen production like retinol, but with fewer side effects. Its effects include reduced wrinkles and faded pigmentation.
Cellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CelluloseA natural ingredient that can create water-based gels, absorb oils, and exfoliate the skin. One of the main functions of cellulose is as a bulking and viscosity controlling agent. Cellulose can also modify the slip aesthetics and act as an opacifying agent.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Xylitol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) OilA famous occlusive moisturizing and emollient oil. It is derived from coconuts and may give a product a lovely coconut scent. Coconut oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
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.

Phospholipids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhospholipidsA large group of lipids that are an essential component of every single cell membrane in the body. They have excellent emollient properties. Phospholipids are also utilized in the manufacturing of ‘fancy’ formulations such as liposomes.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Calendula Officinalis Flower ExtractAn extract derived from the flowers of the pot marigold. Its yellow to bright orange flowers contain carotenoids, triterpenoids, and flavonoids. They all have fantastic anti-inflammatory activity and can help to soothe inflamed skin.
Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alpha-Glucan OligosaccharideA sugar-derived ingredient thought to provide protective benefits to the skin's microbiome which keeps skin feeling and looking healthy.
Zinc PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc PCAA two-part ingredient: Zinc helps to control sebum and bacteria in acne-prone skin, while skin-identical PCA is a moisturizing humectant. Zinc PCA may even boost collagen production and so is researched as a potential anti-wrinkle ingredient.
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.
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.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trisodium Ethylenediamine DisuccinateA chelating agent that disables harmful heavy metal ions present in skincare.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycyrrhetinic AcidA compound derived from licorice root. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient with some anti-pigment properties.
o-Cymen-5-ol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
o-Cymen-5-olA preservative related to chemicals found in the herb thyme. It has its own unique smell but is very effective even at small amounts.
Calcium Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Calcium GluconateA white crystalline powder that can act as a humectant when dissolved into water. It is also a chelating agent.
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.
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl HydroxyhydrocinnamateAn antioxidant that protects vulnerable ingredients from the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, which can also lead to the generation of damaging free radical species.
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil
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.
Menthyl Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Menthyl LactateA derivative of menthol that has the same fresh, cooling effect on the skin, but that is less sensitizing and doesn’t have the strong mint scent of menthol.
Ascorbyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbyl PalmitateA form of vitamin C derived from ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. It is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. Unfortunately, Ascorbyl Palmitate lacks the studies to prove its anti-wrinkle efficacy.