Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum Review

Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum
4.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
8.5 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.4 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 very high humectancy of 8.5 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%).

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 Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract (est. ≈4.0%).

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.

Pros & Cons of Carbon Theory Overnight Detox Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Carbon Theory Overnight Detox 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: 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
6
4
3
2
1
1
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Heptyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Mannitol
Function:
Origin:
Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Function:
Origin:
Charcoal Powder
Function:
Origin:
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Powder
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Algin
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Polyglycerin-10
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Tricalcium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Dehydroacetate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
8.5
6
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 8.5 10
8.5
6
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 8.5 10
8.5
All humectants
8.5
6
1
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
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 7.1 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
7.1
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
4
Mannitol
1
Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract
0.3
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
0.3
Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract
0.3
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Powder
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1
0.3
All soothing 1.3 5 No
All soothing
1.3
1
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.
Propanediol
Est. %6
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.
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from the berries of the bilberry plant, sometimes called European blueberry. It is rich in antioxidant anthocyanins and astringent tannins.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6A polymeric ingredient that works best in water-based formulas to create gel textures. It helps to stabilize emulsions and control viscosity.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %2
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.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %1
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.
Heptyl Glucoside
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Heptyl Glucoside
Mannitol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
MannitolA sweet-tasting, sugar-derived, humectant alcohol that can stabilize a skincare formula and offer some antioxidant and soothing properties.
Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) ExtractAn antioxidant extract from sugarcane, the famous crop used to make sugar. It acts as a humectant and exfoliating agent – the little sugar crystals mechanically remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface.
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.

Microcrystalline Cellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Microcrystalline CelluloseA plant-based ingredient derived from cellulose. The rough version of microcrystalline cellulose is used in scrubs instead of plastic microbeads and the finer version is used as a thickener and stabilizer and readily absorbs oil and sweat.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract

An extract from the fruit of the sweet orange. It contains fragrant sweet orange essential oil, high amounts of antioxidant flavonoids (mainly hesperidin), and carotenoids – which give it the orange color.

Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract

A fragrant extract from lemon peels that contains various antioxidant flavonoids, organic acids, and limonoids – which are currently under investigation as potential anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment compounds.

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.
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf OilA fragrant and antioxidant essential tea tree oil praised for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oil helps to treat acne, inflamed skin, and small wounds. It might, however, cause allergies and skin irritations.
Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
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.
Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) ExtractAn antioxidant extract from sugar maple bark and sap – the same sweet sap used to make maple syrup. It has a faint vanilla smell and is used in skincare for its exfoliating properties. This is because of the small sugar crystals present in the extract.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyl MethylcelluloseA natural viscosity controlling agent that is commonly used in skin cleansing products to thicken the consistency. It also functions as an emulsion stabilizing agent and binding agent.
Charcoal Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Charcoal PowderA naturally occurring ingredient that is used as a colorant due to its rich black color. It can also be used as an abrasive to exfoliate the top layer of dead cells off the surface of the skin, as well as as an absorbent.
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Powder
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.

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.
Algin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlginA plant-based ingredient that can form gels when added to water, so it can thicken water-based products. Algin serves as a binding agent, where it helps hold the other ingredients in the product together and prevents them from separating.
Magnesium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium Hydroxide
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Polyglycerin-10
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglycerin-10
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 MyristateA solubilizer that can help incorporate small amounts of oil to an otherwise watery product while providing lightweight skin feel.
Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 StearateA naturally-derived or synthetically produced mild emulsifier.
Tricalcium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tricalcium Phosphate
Sodium Dehydroacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium DehydroacetateA sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid that is most commonly used as a preservative. It is a strong fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it an effective broad-spectrum preservative.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
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.

Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)A red colorant also known as red iron oxide. This is an EU-approved colorant used in a wide variety of products.