Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir
6.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
2.4 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
6.1Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
$$$$

Review

Results you may expect from using Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.2 out of 10.
  • Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 6.1 out of 10, Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

How moisturizing is it?

Highly moisturizing: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir has a moisturizing rating of 6.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 2.4 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%), Glycereth-26 (est. ≈4.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈2.0%).

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

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 6.1 out of 10.

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

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%),
    one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients.
  • Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
    or Vitamin C, a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, yet with average efficacy confirmed by only one study.
Among others, Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir also contains some ingredients marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Biosaccharide Gum-4, Copper Gluconate, and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9. 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.

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

Antioxidant benefits

We estimate that Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%).

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.

Skin soothing

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
5
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
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
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Ratings

All humectants
16.1
5
4
2
1.5
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
4.9
3.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 16.1 10
10.0
5
4
2
1.5
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 4.9 20
2.4
3.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 4.9 20
2.4
All occlusives
4.9
3.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
5
4
2
1.5
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 16.1 10
10
All humectants
16.1
5
4
2
1.5
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
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 5 6
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
6.1
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
5
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Biosaccharide Gum-4
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Copper Gluconate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
6.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 7.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
7.4
Niacinamide
5
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Saussurea Involucrata Callus Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
0.3
Rosa Canina Fruit Extract
0.3
Glutathione
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Rating
5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 6.2 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
6.2
5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
Function
Origin
The 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.
Niacinamide
Est. %5
Function
Origin

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.

Glycereth-26
Est. %4
Function
Origin
A glycerin-based ingredient with humectant moisturizing properties. It is an excellent emulsifier and thickener.
Triheptanoin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Glycerin
Est. %2
Function
Origin

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

Methyl Gluceth-20
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
A humectant synthetically derived from glucose. It takes on the form of a clear, syrupy liquid.
Silica
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
A widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Extracted from the seeds of the flowering plant tea oil camellia (not to be confused with tea tree oil), this occlusive moisturizing and emollient oil consists of oleic and linoleic fatty acids, vitamin E, and phytosterols.
Quartz Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Amethyst Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Ruby Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Gold (CI 77480)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

A colorant used in skincare, typically processed into fine particles for uniform dispersion. Its luxurious hue enhances product aesthetics, while its role as a slip and surface modifier improves texture and application. Despite touted anti-aging benefits, definitive scientific evidence is lacking.

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum parkii oil is a liquid fraction from the more commonly used shea butter. It consists mainly of oleic acid and is used in skincare as an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient. Read more on shea butter here: Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Octyldodecyl Oleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Myrothamnus Flabellifolia Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
This 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.
Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An antioxidant, soothing, and humectant moisturizing extract obtained from Chinese magnolia-vine berries. Its main compounds are soothing and immunomodulatory lignans.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Sodium Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A chelating ingredient that ensures that the harmful metal ions in a formula are unreactive. It also protects other ingredients from degrading.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Chondrus Crispus Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract from the species of red marine algae called Irish moss or carrageen moss. It is edible and widely used to produce carrageenan, a polysaccharide with humectant moisturizing and soothing properties.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.
Saussurea Involucrata Callus Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Polyglutamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A natural polymer with incredible water-binding properties that is prepared from glutamic acid through fermentation.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Magnesium Aspartate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A humectant salt of aspartic acid, a common amino acid found in the body. According to the manufacturer, magnesium aspartate in skincare products supports the supply of magnesium to skin cells.
Zinc Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
One of the most commonly used ingredients in anti-acne products. It is an organic salt of zinc that helps to combat microbial infections, soothes and heals inflamed pimples, and regulates hormones in the skin.
Rosa Canina Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract from the fruits of the Rosa canina, better known as rosehip. It contains carotenoids, which give it its bright, orange-red color, as well as high amounts of antioxidant vitamin C, flavonoids, tannins, and organic acids.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Octyldodecanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An emollient fatty alcohol that spreads easily without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. It is also used as a solvent and dispersing agent for other ingredients.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Propanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Biosaccharide Gum-4
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A sugar-derived gel which forms a water-binding film on the skin’s surface. This film allegedly protects the skin from environmental stressors.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Under 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.
Plumeria Alba Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Plumeria Rubra Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Lithothamnion Calcareum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Lactic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Copper Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An organic salt of copper that can aid in the wound healing process. The manufacturer claims it also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, although this has yet to be confirmed. Copper gluconate is also a perspective anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Hydrated Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A form of silicone dioxide, the major component of sand, that contains varying amounts of water. It has several purposes but is most commonly used as an abrasive (as an eco-conscious alternative to polyethylene microbeads).
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Solanum Tuberosum (Potato) Pulp Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetically made peptide that works as a signal peptide, increasing the production of collagen in the skin. There was a small clinical study on this peptide that resulted in firmer and thicker skin with fewer wrinkles.
Dehydroacetic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A globally approved preservative ingredient. It is a powerful fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it a broad-spectrum preservative. Because it is mildly effective against bacteria, it is often paired with stronger bactericides.
Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

Also known as vitamin C, this multi-benefit ingredient has proven anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and anti-pigmentation efficacy. It degrades easily when exposed to air and light, so it requires proper packaging to maintain its stability.

Glutathione
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A naturally occurring tripeptide that combats free radicals and acts as a reducing agent.
Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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
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.
Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Citral
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.