Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener Review

Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
5.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.
  • Considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy: Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener has an anti-wrinkle rating of 5.5 out of 10, indicating a moderate ability to reduce wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener:
 

Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? It is purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%), Glycerin (est. ≈3.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, providing significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula without any occlusive ingredients.

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.

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.

Considerable Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener has a moderate anti-wrinkle rating of 5.5 out of 10.

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

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%),
     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).
  • 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, Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener also contains some ingredients marketed often as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Acetyl Glucosamine, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, and Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. 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 Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%).

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.

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: Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener to your skincare routine:
 

If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It Needs to Be Paired with Some Occlusives

While humectants are highly effective at attracting water to the skin, studies (J. N. Kraft, C. W. Lynde) suggest they may not be efficient when used alone.

One major drawback of purely humectant moisturization is that the water attracted by humectants to the upper layers of the skin can evaporate completely into the environment through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Adding occlusive ingredients helps seal this moisture into the skin and prevent further water loss.

If you’re using Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener as your only moisturizer, consider pairing it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones. These work alongside humectants to create a protective barrier, locking in hydration and ensuring longer-lasting moisturization. The amount of occlusive needed depends on your skin type - the drier the skin, the more occlusives it requires.

If this product is used not as a standalone moisturizer but as part of your skincare routine, such as a toner or serum, it should be applied before your main moisturizer (unless it's a sunscreen), which will provide the necessary occlusivity on top of it.

Pros & Cons of Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Cantabria Labs Serum Booster Serum Pigment Lightener 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
  • Provides considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution

Cons: 

  • Needs occlusives to seal in humectants if used as a standalone moisturizer

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
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
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:
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate
Function:
Origin:
Portulaca Oleracea Extract
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Glucosamine
Function:
Origin:
Kojic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Decarboxy Carnosine HCl
Function:
Origin:
Aminoethylphosphinic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Fructose
Function:
Origin:
Lactitol
Function:
Origin:
Glycosaminoglycans
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Hexapeptide-37
Function:
Origin:
Trehalose
Function:
Origin:
Dehydroxanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Gluceth-20
Function:
Origin:
Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum
Function:
Origin:
Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metabisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium Amylopectin/Glycerin Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Red 33 (CI 17200)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
15.3
6
3
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 15.3 10
10.0
6
3
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
3
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 15.3 10
10
All humectants
15.3
6
3
2
1.3
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
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
6 /10 4 2 3
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 1 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
5.5
Niacinamide
3
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Acetyl Glucosamine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
1
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
5.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.8 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.8
Niacinamide
2
Portulaca Oleracea Extract
1.3
Kojic Acid
0.3
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
0.3
Sodium Metabisulfite
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2
1.3
0.3
All soothing 3.6 5 No
All soothing
3.6
2
1.3
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.

Dimethyl Isosorbide
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Dimethyl IsosorbideA solvent for active ingredients that is claimed to help them better penetrate the outer layer of skin. It also helps to reduce the thickness of a product.
Glycerin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Niacinamide
Est. %2
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.

PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate

A clear, pale yellow, oil-like emollient manufactured synthetically from coconut oil and polyethylene glycol. It is also used as an emulsifying agent.

Portulaca Oleracea Extract
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Portulaca Oleracea ExtractDerived from green or common purslane, this moisturizing extract is particularly rich in alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, and contains antioxidant glutathione and vitamin E. As a herbal medicine, it is believed to treat headaches and inflammation.
Acetyl Glucosamine
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Acetyl GlucosamineA body-natural amino-saccharide used in skincare as an anti-pigment ingredient. Some other benefits of acetyl glucosamine include decreased skin flakiness, improved wound healing, and even a slight reduction in facial wrinkles.
Kojic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Kojic AcidA bioactive compound isolated from various fungi or fermented products. It is one of the most common and potent anti-pigment and brightening ingredients, and has been successfully tested on humans.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypinacolone RetinoateThe newest derivative of vitamin A with improved stability, less irritation, and (allegedly) direct vitamin A action. Studies recommend it for acne treatment and collagen-boosting 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.

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.
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.
Propylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trisodium Ethylenediamine DisuccinateA chelating agent that disables harmful heavy metal ions present in skincare.
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Decarboxy Carnosine HCl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Decarboxy Carnosine HCl
Aminoethylphosphinic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aminoethylphosphinic Acid
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Fructose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FructoseA natural sugar that moisturizes the skin by drawing water to the surface.
Lactitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lactitol
Glycosaminoglycans
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlycosaminoglycansA blanket term used for the structural polysaccharides of the skin, such as hyaluronic acid and chondroitin. They add to a skincare product's film-forming and water-binding properties.
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salicylic AcidThis effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.
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.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. According to a recent clinical study, THDA has all the capabilities of regular vitamin C, including anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment activity.
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.
Acetyl Hexapeptide-37
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acetyl Hexapeptide-37

Description is coming soon

Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrehaloseA sweet-tasting saccharide that can be found in various yeasts and fungi and that is manufactured from starch for cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most popular sugars in skincare and is mainly used for its humectant properties.
Dehydroxanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dehydroxanthan Gum
Methyl Gluceth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methyl Gluceth-20A humectant synthetically derived from glucose. It takes on the form of a clear, syrupy liquid.
Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methylsilanol Hydroxyproline Aspartate
Hydrolyzed Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum
Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caesalpinia Spinosa GumA plant-based formula helper also known as Tara gum that contains thickening galactomannans (polysaccharides).
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SorbitolA sweet-tasting alcohol derived from glucose. Aside from its sweet taste (for which it is used as a very common sweetener), Sorbitol is also very good at retaining water and is used in skincare as a humectant.
Sodium Metabisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetabisulfiteA preservative that is especially effective at preventing fungus and mold growth. It is normally combined with a strong bactericidal preservative in order to achieve broad-spectrum protection. Sodium metabisulfite is also used as an antioxidant.
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.
Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates CopolymerA highly functional synthetic ingredient that forms a protective layer on the skin and reduces static buildup. It gives an emollient feel to the product, including a silky after-feel.
Sodium Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CarbomerLike Carbomer, only pre-reacted so that no neutralization is required. Carbomer based gels are clear and have a non-sticky smooth feel. Many high end cosmetics will use carbomers as part of their formula to build body without making a product feel heavy.
Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium Amylopectin/Glycerin Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium Amylopectin/Glycerin Crosspolymer
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
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.
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.
Red 33 (CI 17200)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Red 33 (CI 17200)Also known as D&C Red 33 or Acid Red 33, this ingredient is a synthetic azo used to color skincare products. It produces a cool red hue, with undertones of blue that lead to a hint of purple.