Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.4 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
$$$$

Review

Results you may expect from using Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum:

  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.
  • Some anti-wrinkle efficacy: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.6 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

How moisturizing is it?

Quite moisturizing: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum has a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.4 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%), Ethoxydiglycol (est. ≈4.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈3.0%).

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

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 2.6 out of 10.

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

  • Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
     the most effective non-prescription ingredient with well-proven efficacy to reduce wrinkles.
  • Glycolic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
     highly effective in peelings, yet with below-average anti-wrinkle efficacy when used in leave-on skincare products.
Among others, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum also contains contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, two ingredients marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. 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.
 
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, could deliver additional anti-wrinkle efficacy through its moisturizing action.
 

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

Antioxidant benefits

We estimate that Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Hexylresorcinol (est. ≈0.3%), and others.

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.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.1
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
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Ratings

All humectants
17.3
6
4
3
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 17.3 10
10.0
6
4
3
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.9 20
0.4
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
3
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 17.3 10
10
All humectants
17.3
6
4
3
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 0.9 20
0.4
All occlusives
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
1.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2.6
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
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Fucus Vesiculosus Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
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
All antioxidants 4.5 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.5
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Hexylresorcinol
0.3
Quercetin
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract
0.3
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
0.3
Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract
0.3
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract
0.3
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
0.3
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract
0.3
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract
0.3
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
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
All soothing 4.8 5 No
All soothing
4.8
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
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.
Propylene Glycol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
A clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Ethoxydiglycol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
A type of alcohol with humectant moisturizing properties. It also acts as a solvent, since it mixes well with a variety of other compounds, including water and even some oils.
Glycerin
Est. %3
Function
Origin

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

Polysorbate 80
Est. %2
Function
Origin
A non-ionic surfactant, which means that it contains no chemical charges. It can be used as a mild cleansing agent in skin cleansing products but is more commonly used for its emulsifying abilities.
Carnitine HCl
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Mandelic Acid
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Derived 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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1
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.
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
This effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.
Farnesol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fragrant, liquid alcohol that is naturally found in many essential oils. It has a soft, sweet, floral scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Glycolic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

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.

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.
Adipic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A soothing and antioxidant extract from prickly pear succulent stems. These stems contain a cooling and anti-inflammatory watery gel that is similar to aloe.
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A potent, soothing extract from the bark of the white willow. It has potent anti-inflammatory effects due to its salicin content. Tannins from the willow bark extract have astringent effects and can aid in the skin’s healing process.
Phytic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phytic 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.
Siraitia Grosvenorii Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fragrant, astringent essential water obtained by steeping and distilling the twigs and leaves of the witch hazel plant. It leaves the skin feeling tight and refreshed after application and helps with the healing of small cuts on the skin.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.
Pentasodium Pentetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Hexylresorcinol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic compound. It is an anti-pigment ingredient that has been shown to be effective in inhibiting tyrosinase activity.
Quercetin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
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.
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.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Urea
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Urea can be found in urine, skin, and other tissues as a degradation product of proteins. In concentrations below 5%, urea is humectant moisturizing. At concentrations above 10% it is keratolytic, that helps to break away old, flaking, and cracked skin.
Jojoba Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Jojoba Esters
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A mixture of various wax esters from jojoba oil. It is used in skincare products as a fantastic emollient, soothing, and occlusive moisturizing agent that won't leave a sticky, oily feeling on the skin.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin

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.

Hydroxyethylcellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A naturally-derived thickener that can form clear gel textures without the slimy feeling, unlike some other natural gel-formers.
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.
Potassium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A very alkaline ingredient, meaning that it has a high pH. Potassium hydroxide is therefore useful in bringing a low pH in a cosmetic product up to a more neutral, skin-safe level.
Octoxynol-9
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Isopropyl Jojobate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A soothing, cooling, and emollient extract derived from cucumbers. Cucumber has been used in skincare for centuries and is used to treat skin problems such as eye swelling, sunburn, and itchy and irritated skin.
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An antioxidant and soothing flower extract derived from Roman chamomile. It contains an essential oil that gives it a sweet and floral aroma.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Derived from lemon peels, this fresh and citrusy extract contains mostly fragrant limonene, but also antioxidant flavonoids and organic acids.
Rose Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rose extract is an unspecified extract from the flowers of various kinds of fragrant roses, such as Rosa damascena, Rosa centifolia, or Rosa moschata. It is very fragrant and has a fresh, rose scent. Read more about rose oil here: Rosa Damascena Flower Oil.
Triethyl Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract derived from apple fruit that has humectant moisturizing and antioxidant properties, as well as gentle anti-pigment effects. It contains humectant sugars, anti-pigment organic acids, and flavonoids.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A soothing and astringent extract derived from the fragrant, spicy leaves of rosemary. It has strong antioxidant properties. Rosemary extract can reduce signs of inflammation and also acts as an emollient and antimicrobial agent.
Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Peach fruit extract is an extract made from the fleshy part of peach fruits. It is used in skincare to add a sweet and fruity peach flavor to the product. This extract contains a plethora of valuable antioxidant compounds. The most abundant are organic acids (mainly malic acid), vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavonoids.
Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit/Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower/Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Obtained from the leaves and fragrant flowers of jasmine, this soothing and occlusive moisturizing extract has a beautiful heavy, sweet, jasmine scent.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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
An 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.
Fucus Vesiculosus Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract from a brown sea algae called bladderwrack. It was shown to increase skin elasticity in one study and boost collagen and HA production in another. Polysaccharides are able to treat irritated and dry skin.
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An antioxidant and astringent extract derived from raspberries - which are a rich source of flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and tannins.
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A bright red extract derived from cranberry fruits that is rich in powerful antioxidant anthocyanins, as well as astringent tannins.
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fragrant and flavoring extract derived from vanilla pods. Vanillin is the main compound responsible for its scent and taste. Other compounds present in the vanilla pod are antioxidant and soothin tannins, polyphenols, and free amino acids.
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.
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.