ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter Review

ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter
6.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
7.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.4 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter:
 

Well-Suited Moisturizer for Normal Skin with a Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a high humectancy of 7.0 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈3.5%) and Galactoarabinan (est. ≈2.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.8 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈6.0%) and Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter (est. ≈4.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with normal skin who want significant hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

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

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Galactoarabinan (est. ≈2.0%).

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.

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.

Pros & Cons of ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of ESPA Smooth & Firm Body Butter to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Well-suited for moisturizing normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
  • Can enhance the moisturizing efficacy of a skincare routine for dry skin
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution

Cons: 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
50
11
6
4
3.5
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
0.15
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Galactoarabinan
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables
Function:
Origin:
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Function:
Origin:
Sclerotium Gum
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Pumpkin Seedcake
Function:
Origin:
Cymbopogon Martini Oil
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Canina Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Dehydroacetic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Lactate
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polyacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Phytic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Cistus Ladaniferus Resin
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Citronellal
Function:
Origin:
Pelargonium Graveolens Oil
Function:
Origin:
Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Cistus Ladaniferus Oil
Function:
Origin:
Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Menthol
Function:
Origin:
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Farnesol
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
7.0
3.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
11.5
6.0
4.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 7.0 10
7.0
3.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 11.5 20
5.8
6.0
4.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 7.0 10
7
All humectants
7.0
3.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 11.5 20
5.8
All occlusives
11.5
6.0
4.0
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
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.2 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.2
Galactoarabinan
2
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
0.3
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.9 5 No
All soothing
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %50
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.
Isopropyl Palmitate
Est. %11
Function
Origin
Isopropyl PalmitateAn emollient ester of palmitic acid and isopropanol that gives the skin a smooth, soft, dry, non-oily after-feel. Isopropyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %6
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.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Glycerin
Est. %3.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %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.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %2.5
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.
Galactoarabinan
Est. %2
Function
Origin
GalactoarabinanA plant polysaccharide with humectant moisturizing properties that is most commonly obtained from Larch trees. It consists of two simple sugars: galactose and arabinose.
Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Est. %1.3
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.
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.
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.
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SorbitolA sweet-tasting alcohol derived from glucose. Aside from its sweet taste (for which it is used as a very common sweetener), Sorbitol is also very good at retaining water and is used in skincare as a humectant.
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.
Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Olive Oil UnsaponifiablesA strongly emollient fraction of olive oil. It contains sterols and fatty alcohols along with various antioxidant compounds and squalane - which replenishes skin sebum.
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Sclerotium Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclerotium GumA thickener with a silky, velvety feel that many manufacturers use as an alternative to silicones.
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.

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.
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.

Hydrolyzed Pumpkin Seedcake
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Pumpkin Seedcake
Cymbopogon Martini Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cymbopogon Martini OilA fragrant essential oil distilled from an Indian grass species known as palmarosa. It has two rose-scented volatile compounds - geraniol and nerol.
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.

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.
Rosa Canina Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Canina Fruit OilAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient oil extracted from the little hard seeds inside of the red, fleshy rosehip. It contains mainly emollient fatty acids and a very high amount of antioxidant carotenoids, which give the oil its light orange color.
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.
Sodium Lactate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium LactateA sodium salt of lactic acid. Its main function is as a humectant but it can also serve as a pH adjuster. Additionally, sodium lactate can also be used as a chemical exfoliant due to its close chemical relation to lactic acid.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil

An essential oil derived from the peels of the sweet orange. It is commonly used as a fragrance because of its pleasant, citrusy scent. The main constituent of the essential oil is limonene (up to 96%).

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.

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.

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.
Glyceryl Polyacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl PolyacrylateA synthetic thickening polymer that can be used in a variety of product types. This polymer can feel lightweight but can also stand up to heavier ingredients in products like body butters.
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.
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.
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.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Cistus Ladaniferus Resin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cistus Ladaniferus Resin
Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil

A fragrant essential oil expressed from the peels of mandarin. It contains up to 74% of limonene and other volatile compounds which create its sweet, mandarin aroma. It may induce sun allergies in people sensitive to citrus fruits.

Citronellal
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellal
Pelargonium Graveolens Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pelargonium Graveolens OilA fragrant essential oil with a rose-like scent obtained from the leaves of rose geranium. It is sometimes added to a more expensive rose oil in order to produce larger volumes.
Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil
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.
Cistus Ladaniferus Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cistus Ladaniferus Oil
Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf OilA fragrant essential oil distilled from the flower buds of cloves (a culinary spice). It contains an essential oil which is mainly comprised of eugenol – a compound with a sweet, gingerbread-like scent.
Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Mentha Arvensis Leaf OilSimilar to peppermint oil, this fragrant wild mint essential oil contains menthol, mentone, and other compounds responsible for its cool, fresh, minty scent.
Menthol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MentholA volatile compound isolated from peppermint oil. It causes a cooling sensation on the skin that can be very soothing. Menthol can also act as a topical painkiller. In more sensitive individuals, however, it may cause skin irritation or an allergy.
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vanilla Planifolia Fruit ExtractA 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.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed OilAn emollient and occlusive moisturizing oil derived from grape seeds that are leftover after juicing or wine production. It contains linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, squalene, as well as phytosterols and various antioxidant compounds.
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.

Farnesol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Farnesol

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.

Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower ExtractA fragrant extract obtained from jasmine flowers with a sweet and heavy floral scent.
Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Centifolia Flower ExtractDerived from the Provence or cabbage rose, this extract contains a fragrant rose essential oil and astringent tannins.
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.