Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E Review

Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
10Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Review

Does Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E 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.
  • Potent anti-wrinkle effect with the highest possible efficacy rating. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 10 out of 10, Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E:
 

Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E 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 Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈80.0%), Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%) and Sodium Hyaluronate (est. ≈2.5%).

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.

Potent Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E has a maximum anti-wrinkle rating of 10 out of 10.

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

  • Retinol (est. ≈2.5%),
     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).
  • Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%),
     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).
Among others, Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E also contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does 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 Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈80.0%), Sodium Hyaluronate (est. ≈2.5%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%).

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, Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈80.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%).

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: Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E 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.

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 Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E 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 Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Cos De BAHA Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum With Vitamin E 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 Retinol and Niacinamide
  • 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 like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract and Niacinamide

Cons: 

  • May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol
  • Needs to be paired with occlusives to seal in humectants if used as a standalone moisturizer

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
80
6
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Damascena Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
91.3
80
6
2.5
2.5
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 91.3 10
10.0
80
6
2.5
2.5
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
80
6
2.5
2.5
0.3
All humectants 91.3 10
10
All humectants
91.3
80
6
2.5
2.5
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
10 /10 0.4 2.5 10
6 /10 4 2.5 3.8
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
10
Retinol
10
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
2.5
Niacinamide
3.8
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2.5
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
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
80
2.5
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 86.2 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
86.2
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
80
Niacinamide
2.5
Sodium Hyaluronate
2.5
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
0.3
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
80
2.5
0.3
0.3
All soothing 83.1 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
83.1
80
2.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Est. %80
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf ExtractDerived from Aloe vera leaves, this moisturizing humectant, soothing, and antioxidant extract is commonly used in products targeting eczema, sunburn, or dermatitis. It soothes the skin and reduces the signs of inflammation and sensitivity.
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.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %2.5
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.

Niacinamide
Est. %2.5
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.

1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %2.5
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.
Retinol
Est. %2.5
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.

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.

Rosa Damascena Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Damascena ExtractDerived from the Damask rose, this extract contains the luxurious fragrant rose essential oil, as well as astringent tannins.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower ExtractObtained from lavender flowers, this extract contains a fragrant essential oil along with various antioxidant and astringent flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids. It is used in skincare for its refreshing, calming scent, or as a cleansing ingredient.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melissa Officinalis Leaf ExtractA fragrant extract derived from lemon balm leaves with antioxidant and antiviral flavonoids and terpenes. It has a lovely, fresh, lemon-like scent.
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Artemisia Vulgaris ExtractAn extract derived from common mugwort. The plant contains an essential oil that gives the extract its strong, pine-like, cooling aroma. It also boasts antioxidant and astringent flavonoids and terpenes.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.