Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm Review

Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Review

Does Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm 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.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.0 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.

Key Benefits of Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm:
 

Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm 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 Propylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈3.0%).

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.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.0 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈1.3%), 
 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, Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm also contains Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does 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, can deliver some 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 AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm to your skincare routine:
 

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 Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm 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 Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm 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
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy

Cons: 

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

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
9
6
4
3
2.5
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
0.3
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
0.15
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Octyldodecanol
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 60
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Pullulan
Function:
Origin:
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylamide
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Methylpropanediol
Function:
Origin:
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Function:
Origin:
Laureth-7
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Disodium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Caramel
Function:
Origin:
Orchis Mascula Extract
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Bixa Orellana Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Dehydroacetic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Sorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide
Function:
Origin:
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Butylphenyl Methylpropional
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.2
6
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.2 10
10.0
6
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.2 10
10
All humectants
11.2
6
3
1.3
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
6 /10 4 1.3 2
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2
Niacinamide
2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.3
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.8 3 No
All antioxidants
2.8
Niacinamide
1.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
0.3
Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract
0.3
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract
0.3
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.3
0.3
All soothing 1.6 5 No
All soothing
1.6
1.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %55
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.
Octyldodecanol
Est. %9
Function
Origin
OctyldodecanolAn emollient fatty alcohol that spreads easily without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. It is also used as a solvent and dispersing agent for other ingredients.
Propylene Glycol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA 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.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch
Glycerin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Polysorbate 60
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 60An ester based on sorbitan. It is good for emulsifying water and oils together – specifically making oil-in-water emulsions. Polysorbate 60 is also said to give a product a notable fragrance.
Sorbitan Stearate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Sorbitan StearateA vegetable-derived ingredient most commonly used as an emulsifier to stabilize water and oil mixtures.
Mica
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
MicaA mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
Niacinamide
Est. %1.3
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.

Phenoxyethanol
Est. %1
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.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

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.

Pullulan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pullulan
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylhydroxamic AcidA chelating agent used alongside preservatives in order to boost their antimicrobial activity.
Polyacrylamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyacrylamideA synthetic ingredient that can thicken products instantly while still keeping them light and often gel-like.
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.

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.
Methylpropanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethylpropanediolMethylpropanediol is a unique glycol that contains two primary hydroxyl groups. That makes methylpropanediol a powerful humectant and an excellent solvent.
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C13-14 IsoparaffinA lightweight petroleum derivative. It is a very thin liquid that functions as an emollient and a solvent for other liquids (such as thicker oils or silicones).
Laureth-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laureth-7A mild but effective functional ingredient. It can emulsify (efficiently mix water and oil) without needing too much in a formula.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil

A fragrant essential oil expressed or distilled from the rinds of sweet oranges. Its main constituent is limonene, which is responsible for its fresh, citrusy smell. It may induce sun allergies in people sensitive to citrus fruits.

Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium Ascorbyl PhosphateOne of the best-researched derivatives of vitamin C. It is more resistant to light and air and retains all the properties of ascorbic acid – antioxidant, collagen-boosting, and anti-pigmentation, but with less irritation.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil

An essential oil expressed from the peels of the bergamot orange. The scent of bergamot oil is woodier than those of other citrus essential oils. This essential oil is still not recommended if you are sensitive to citrus fruits.

Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Moringa Oleifera Seed ExtractAn extract derived from the seeds of a bush native to Northern India. It contains antioxidant, antimicrobial, and astringent organic acids, flavonoids, and alkaloids.
Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Oil
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.
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.

Disodium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium PhosphateAn inorganic ingredient primarily used in skincare products as a pH adjuster.
Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Litsea Cubeba Fruit OilA lemon-scented essential oil distilled from the fruits of an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia.
Caramel
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CaramelA natural ingredient that is derived from the heat treatment of table sugar. Caramel is used in skincare as a natural colorant that can create transparent, dark brown solutions. It also works as a fragrance, where it provides a sweet, sugary scent.
Orchis Mascula Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Orchis Mascula Extract
Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlcoholAn effective antimicrobial ingredient that kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. It is also an excellent solvent and astringent. Alcohol helps to create lighter and less viscous products. It can, however, be dehydrating and skin-sensitizing.
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.
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.
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit ExtractAn extract of Indian mulberry that is aimed at irritated skin and that has plenty of antioxidant and wound healing carotenoids, flavonoids, and iridoids.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil

A fragrant essential oil extracted from the rind or peel of a lemon. It is mainly comprised of limonene (up to 70%) and has a fresh, citrusy scent. Lemon peel oil may cause a sun-induced skin rash in people with a sensitivity towards citrus fruits.

Bixa Orellana Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bixa Orellana Seed Extract
Potassium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium HydroxideA 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.
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.
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzoic AcidA preservative effective against fungi, yeast, and some bacteria. It is commonly paired with phenoxyethanol to create a broad spectrum preservation system. Benzoic acid can also serve as a pH adjuster, fragrance, and bulking agent.
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit ExtractAn antioxidant extract obtained from the fruits of the acai palm. It has a high content of anthocyanins, responsible for the dark purple color, as well as other antioxidant phenolic compounds.
Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil

A fragrant essential oil extracted from lime peels that is mostly comprised of limonene, pinene, terpinene, and terpineol - which give off a sweet citrusy scent.

Dehydroacetic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dehydroacetic AcidA globally approved preservative ingredient. It is a powerful fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it a broad-spectrum preservative. Because it is mildly effective against bacteria, it is often paired with stronger bactericides.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) OilAn essential oil derived from common, or true, lavender. It is used in skincare for its lovely, calming scent. Like all essential oils, however, it may cause a contact skin allergy in more sensitive individuals.
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.
Sorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbic AcidAn organic acid that can be naturally found in the berries of the Mountain ash, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It is used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent, protecting a skincare product from spoiling.
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyaminopropyl BiguanideAn antimicrobial agent.
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) OilA fragrant essential oil obtained from the clary sage that has a sweet, herbal, soft, and woody aroma, with some hints of lavender.
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil

A fragrant essential neroli oil distilled from the flowers of the bitter orange tree. It has a rich, orange-floral scent with fresh and spicy notes.

Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Butylphenyl Methylpropional
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Butylphenyl Methylpropional

A synthetic fragrance ingredient used to recreate the scent of lilies, this ingredient also features fresh, green, and powdery notes. Butylphenyl Methylpropional was recently labeled as Toxic to Reproduction in the EU and will be banned in 2022.

Citral
Est. %0.15
Function
Origin
Citral

A fragrant compound found in many essential oils (especially lemon myrtle and lemongrass essential oil). It has a sweet, lemon-like scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citral, or at least do a patch test before using.

Benzyl Salicylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Salicylate

A fragrance ingredient with a sweet, floral, and slightly balsamic scent. It is one of the twenty-six fragrances that are considered allergens according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), and so its use is restricted.

Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.