Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum Review

Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum
5.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.7 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
10Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Review

Does Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10.
  • Potent anti-wrinkle effect with the highest possible efficacy rating. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 10 out of 10, Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.7 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycerin (est. ≈6.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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.

Potent Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum has a maximum anti-wrinkle rating of 10 out of 10.

It contains 4 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%),
     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).
  • Retinal (est. ≈0.05%),
     also known as retinaldehyde, is a potent retinoid with anti-wrinkle efficacy confirmed by a single clinical study involving 125 participants (Creidi et al.). This study demonstrated that a cream containing 0.05% retinal reduced the average wrinkle depth by 8% after 18 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without retinal).
  • Asiaticoside (est. ≈0.3%),
     derived from the plant Centella asiatica, an ingredient with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 27 participants (Lee et al.). This study demonstrated that a cream containing 0.1% asiaticoside reduced the average wrinkle depth by 8% after 12 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without asiaticoside).
  • 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, Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum also contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Bakuchiol, Madecassic Acid, and Asiatic Acid. 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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%) and Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (est. ≈3.0%).

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 and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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.

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: Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum 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 Colibri Skincare Retinol Serum

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

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Delivers potent anti-wrinkle efficacy with the highest possible rating of 10 out of 10 thanks to ingredients like Niacinamide and Retinal, among others
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution
  • Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, specifically Niacinamide

Cons: 

  • May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
6
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
0.1
0.05
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:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Tricaprylin
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide AP
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide AS
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NS
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide EOP
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Retinal
Function:
Origin:
Asiaticoside
Function:
Origin:
Madecassic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Cholesterol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Epigallocatechin Gallate
Function:
Origin:
Asiatic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Propylheptyl Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Levulinate
Function:
Origin:
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Anisate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose Distearate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.6
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.5
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.6 10
10.0
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.5 20
1.7
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.6 10
10
All humectants
11.6
6
4
1
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.5 20
1.7
All occlusives
3.5
2.0
0.3
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 4 6
5 /10 0.05 0.05 5
3 /10 0.1 0.3 3
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
10
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
4
Retinal
5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
5 /10
when present at, %
0.05
in this formula, est. %
0.05
Asiaticoside
3
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
3 /10
when present at, %
0.1
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
3
Bakuchiol
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Madecassic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Asiatic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 8.8 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
8.8
Niacinamide
4
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
3
Asiaticoside
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Bakuchiol
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Epigallocatechin Gallate
0.3
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
4
1
0.3
0.3
All soothing 5.6 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.6
4
1
0.3
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.
Glycerin
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Niacinamide
Est. %4
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.

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Sodium Ascorbyl PhosphateThe most researched derivative of vitamin C. It boosts collagen synthesis, thereby improving skin structure and elasticity. SAP is effective in the treatment of inflamed acne lesions and has a weak but positive effect on pigmentation issues.
Tricaprylin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Tricaprylin
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.
Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters
Panthenol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl Caprylate/CaprateCaprylyl Caprylate/Caprate is a medium-chain ester of a fatty alcohol (capryl alcohol) and a fatty acid (either caprylic acid with 8 carbon atoms or capric acid with 10). With a structure similar to natural waxes, this ingredient is used as an emollient, making the skin feel softer, smoother, and dry to the touch.
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Ceramide NP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NPAlso known as ceramide 3, it is the most common ceramide in our skin. It helps to restore the skin’s lipid barrier and alleviate the symptoms of dry and cracked skin. Research has shown that skin suffering from conditions such as AD lacks ceramides.
Ceramide AP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide APPreviously called Ceramide 6 II, Ceramide AP is one of the most common ceramides in the skin. Research has shown that dry, flaky skin has significantly less Ceramide AP. Its application helps to treat dry skin by restoring balance in the skin lipids.
Ceramide AS
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide AS
Ceramide NS
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NSA wax-like lipid natural to the skin’s lipid matrix. It is less frequently used but, in combination with other ceramides, can help to restore balance in the skin’s lipid barrier.
Ceramide EOP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide EOP

Formerly called Ceramide 1, this ingredient is a skin-identical wax-like lipid with an ultra-long fatty acid chain. It restores and stabilizes the skin’s lipid matrix and helps to treat dry and flaky skin, especially when combined with other ceramides.

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.

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.
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.
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.

Retinal
Est. %0.05
Function
Origin
Retinal

A potent ingredient of the retinoid group with confirmed anti-wrinkle capabilities.

Asiaticoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Asiaticoside

A Gotu Kola or Centella Asiatica derivative with confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Madecassic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Madecassic AcidAn isolated bioactive compound from Gotu Kola. It increases collagen and hyaluronic acid production in the skin and helps to treat wounds, scars, and burns.
Cholesterol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CholesterolAn emollient and important barrier repairing lipid, effective when combined with fatty acids and ceramides. Around 25% of the skin’s lipid layer is made up of cholesterol and it is found in the membrane of every single cell in our body.
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.

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Epigallocatechin Gallate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Epigallocatechin GallateA bioactive compound isolated from green tea with numerous beneficial effects. It is an astringent and antioxidant and can help the skin to heal, reduce redness, and treat UV-induced damage.
Asiatic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Asiatic AcidA compound isolated from Gotu Kola, a promising anti-wrinkle medicinal plant from Southeast Asia. It is claimed to increase the production of collagen and help with the wound healing process.
Propylheptyl Caprylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylheptyl Caprylate
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) OilAn emollient and occlusive oil derived from sweet almonds. It has a favorable fatty acid composition (mainly oleic and linoleic acids), and a high content of vitamin E. Almond oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Sodium Levulinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium LevulinateA sodium salt of levulinic acid that is used as an antimicrobial and preservative agent, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in a product.
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Argania Spinosa Kernel OilA fatty oil from Moroccan argan tree kernels commonly used as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. Its uniqueness comes from its compounds: vitamin E, phospholipids, phenolic compounds, and rare phytosterols with antioxidant and emollient effects.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
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.
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Stearoyl LactylateA negatively charged surfactant that mixes oils with water and cleanses skin.
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypropyl CyclodextrinA white crystalline powder that can reduce odors coming from other ingredients in a product.
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.
Sodium Anisate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium AnisateA natural preservative with a sweet scent.
Glyceryl Caprylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl CaprylateA waxy solid derived from vegetable oils that has emollient and emulsifying properties. It is also known to boost the efficacy of organic acid preservatives by destabilizing the microbe's cell membrane.
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.
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.
Dipropylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipropylene GlycolA clear, colorless liquid that has several uses. One of its main functions is as a solvent. Dipropylene glycol is also used to reduce the thickness of skincare products.
Sucrose Distearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sucrose Distearate