Clearstem Skincare Clearity Review

Clearstem Skincare Clearity
3.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.9 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
0.1Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Ingredients

Clearstem Skincare Clearity Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Mandelic Acid, Propanediol, Olive Oil Glycereth-8 Esters, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Sodium PCA, Pinus Pinaster Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Capsaicin, Hesperidin, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Ascorbic Acid, Citric Acid, Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed, Sodium Lactate, Fragrance
Review

Does Clearstem Skincare Clearity Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Clearstem Skincare Clearity has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.4 out of 10.
✅ Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Clearstem Skincare Clearity has an anti-wrinkle rating of 0.1 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.

  

Key Benefits of Clearstem Skincare Clearity

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Clearstem Skincare Clearity:
 

🔵 Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizer Well-Suited for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Clearstem Skincare Clearity is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a high humectancy of 6.9 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈2.0%).

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

📌 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 Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant enhancement 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.

🟣 Slight Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Clearstem Skincare Clearity has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 0.1 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
 or Vitamin C, a popular ingredient, yet with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 20 participants (Humbert et al.). This study showed that a cream with a relatively high concentration of 5% ascorbic acid reduced the average wrinkle depth by 7% after 6 months of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ascorbic acid).
 
📌 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 additional anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

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

📌 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: Clearstem Skincare Clearity

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Clearstem Skincare Clearity to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

This product contains lactic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage.

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

⚠️ 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 Clearstem Skincare Clearity 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 Clearstem Skincare Clearity

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Clearstem Skincare Clearity to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing well-suited for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
Provides slight anti-wrinkle efficacy
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - it needs to be paired with occlusives to seal in humectants
   

Summary: Clearstem Skincare Clearity

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Clearstem Skincare Clearity
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing that is well-suited for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant enhancement, beneficial for all skin types.
 
Clearstem Skincare Clearity contains ingredients with proven evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy that may offer a slight anti-wrinkle effect. As a result, you can expect a positive, though relatively minimal, impact on wrinkles.
 
 
That said, there are some things about Clearstem Skincare Clearity worth noting.
 
Looking at its moisturizing profile, we found that it doesn’t contain any occlusive ingredients, potentially allowing the moisture attracted to the skin by humectants to evaporate. Therefore, if it’s used as the only moisturizer in a routine, it’s recommended to pair it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones.
 
📌 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
75
6
4
3
2
1.5
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Mandelic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Olive Oil Glycereth-8 Esters
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Pinus Pinaster Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Capsaicin
Function:
Origin:
Hesperidin
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.9
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.9 10
6.9
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
3.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 6.9 10
6.9
All humectants
6.9
4
2
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
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
Total
0.1
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.4 3 No
All antioxidants
2.4
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
1.5
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
0.3
Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.5
0.3
All soothing 1.8 5 No
All soothing
1.8
1.5
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.
Mandelic Acid
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Mandelic AcidDerived from almonds, this ingredient is one of the gentlest AHAs and is used for its exfoliating and antimicrobial properties. It is particularly beneficial for acne but also helps to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Propanediol
Est. %4
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.
Olive Oil Glycereth-8 Esters
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Olive Oil Glycereth-8 Esters
Glycerin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) ExtractAn extract obtained from the twigs and/or leaves of witch hazel. It is one of the oldest skincare remedies known to man. It is astringent and sebum regulating, meaning that it controls the amount of sebum that the skin produces.
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Tetrasodium Glutamate DiacetateA biodegradable chelating agent that chemically captures the heavy metal ions naturally present in water and disarms their harmful effects.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %1
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.
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.
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.
Pinus Pinaster Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pinus Pinaster Leaf Extract
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root ExtractAn extract derived from the thick roots of curcuma (turmeric), a famous yellow spice and a major ingredient in curry powder. It is used in skincare for its proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract

A fragrant extract derived from grapefruit peels. It mainly contains essential oil and various antioxidant organic acids and flavonoids. Limonene is responsible for its citrusy scent.

Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Extract
Capsaicin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Capsaicin
Hesperidin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hesperidin
Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Oil
Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid

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.

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.
Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Sinensis Peel Oil Expressed

An essential oil pressed from the peels of the sweet orange.

Sodium Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium LactateA sodium salt of lactic acid. Its main function is as a humectant but it can also serve as a pH adjuster. Additionally, sodium lactate can also be used as a chemical exfoliant due to its close chemical relation to lactic acid.
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.