Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment Review

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment
6.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.9 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
8.6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Review

Does Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.
  • Potent anti-wrinkle effect. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 8.6 out of 10, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.9 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%), Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈2.0%).

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, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment has a very high anti-wrinkle rating of 8.6 out of 10.

It contains 3 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%),
     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).
  • 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).
  • Glycolic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
     a highly effective ingredient in peelings but with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy in leave-on skincare products, as supported by a single clinical study. This study, involving 72 participants (Thibault et al.), demonstrated that a lotion with 5% GA reduced the fine wrinkling score by 6% after 34 days of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without GA).
Among others, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment also contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Bakuchiol, Adenosine, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, and Sodium Ascorbate. 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 Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment 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 and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment 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.

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: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment to your skincare routine:
 

May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol and Glycolic Acid

This product contains both retinol and glycolic acid, two potent skincare ingredients with complementary benefits. Retinol offers powerful anti-wrinkle properties by boosting cell turnover, while glycolic acid, a popular AHA, exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells. Together, they reveal new, more delicate skin that is brighter and smoother but also more vulnerable to sun damage.

Using products with both retinol and glycolic acid may increase the skin’s sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect your skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily throughout the use of these ingredients and avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be applied 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 products containing retinol and glycolic acid, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment 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 thanks to ingredients like Niacinamide and Retinol, 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 and glycolic acid

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
5
4
3
2
0.1
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ferulic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Linoleic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Linolenic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Silybum Marianum Extract
Function:
Origin:
Saccharide Isomerate
Function:
Origin:
Phospholipids
Function:
Origin:
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Phytic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Glycolic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Mandelic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Maltodextrin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Oleth-10
Function:
Origin:
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
12.8
5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
3.9
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 12.8 10
10.0
5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 3.9 20
1.9
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 12.8 10
10
All humectants
12.8
5
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 3.9 20
1.9
All occlusives
3.9
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 5 6
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
1.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
8.6
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
5
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Glycolic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
1.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Bakuchiol
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Sodium Ascorbate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
8.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 8.3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
8.3
Niacinamide
5
Bakuchiol
0.3
Ferulic Acid
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Silybum Marianum Extract
0.3
Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Sodium Ascorbate
0.3
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract
0.3
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract
0.3
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
5
0.3
0.3
All soothing 5.6 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.6
5
0.3
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.
Niacinamide
Est. %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.

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.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Glycerin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

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.

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.
Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract
Ferulic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ferulic AcidA plant-based phenolic acid with powerful and scientifically proven antioxidant properties. It enhances the effects of vitamins C and E, as well as the UV protective effects of sunscreens.
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.

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.
Linoleic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Linoleic AcidA fatty acid isolated from various plant oils (notably evening primrose, safflower, grape seed, and sunflower oil). It is an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that doesn't leave an oily, sticky residue and is especially suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Linolenic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Linolenic AcidAn essential polyunsaturated occlusive fatty acid isolated from various plant oils. It is necessary for the correct barrier function of the skin and moisturizes without leaving a sticky after-feel.
Silybum Marianum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silybum Marianum ExtractAn extract from the seeds of the milk thistle. It is a powerful antioxidant that is able to protect the skin from UV-induced damage.
Saccharide Isomerate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharide IsomerateA naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.
Phospholipids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhospholipidsA large group of lipids that are an essential component of every single cell membrane in the body. They have excellent emollient properties. Phospholipids are also utilized in the manufacturing of ‘fancy’ formulations such as liposomes.
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit ExtractA very bitter extract from the fruits of a Chinese tree. It contains antioxidant alkaloids, including Evodiamine, which are able to suppress skin inflammation and treat UV-induced skin damage.
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.
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.

Phytic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phytic AcidPhytic acid is found in rice and is seen as a cousin of alpha-hydroxy acids. As a chelator, it can bind to certain metals that may cause discoloration in products or reduce the efficacy of other ingredients.
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.

Glycolic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycolic Acid

The second most used AHA (after lactic acid) known for its potent exfoliating and smoothing effects. It increases skin cell turnover, which is beneficial for treating acne. When used in peels, glycolic acid has confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy, though it is less effective in leave-on products like creams and serums.

Mandelic Acid
Est. %0.3
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.
Maltodextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MaltodextrinA formula helper manufactured from starch. It has a sweet flavor and is often used in rinse-off products to support their foaming structure. Maltodextrin is also used to stabilize emulsions and to absorb and bind other ingredients in the formula.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer
Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol with emollient properties. It is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener and tends to result in a product with a smooth and creamy application texture.
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Stearate SEAn emulsifier, where the SE stands for self-emulsifying. Emulsions containing glyceryl stearate SE often impart a smooth, velvety feel upon the skin.
Arachidyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl GlucosideA mild cleanser and emulsifier that helps oil and water to mix and form emulsions.
Arachidyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl AlcoholA non-drying fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and viscosity controlling agent. It also produces a mattifying effect when applied in a skincare product onto the skin.
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.
Oleth-10
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oleth-10
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor OilA castor oil-derived ingredient often used to incorporate small amounts of oil (such as a fragrance) into a water-based product. PEG-4 HCO is a gold-standard solubilizer and can be used in low amounts due to its ability to solubilize things so well.
Sodium Ascorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium AscorbateA well-researched sodium salt of vitamin C. It has antioxidant, collagen-boosting, and pigment-improving properties. It degrades very easily when exposed to air and needs careful packaging.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract

Derived from lemon peels, this fresh and citrusy extract contains mostly fragrant limonene, but also antioxidant flavonoids and organic acids.

Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract

A fragrant extract obtained from bergamot orange peels. It contains an essential oil and is a rich source of antioxidant flavonoids and organic acids.

Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem ExtractAn extract obtained from various parts of true lavender. It mainly contains fragrant essential oil and also offers other beneficial phytochemicals with antioxidant, astringent, and cleansing effects.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
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.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA 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.