Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum Review

Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum
5.7
/ 10
Moisturizing
8.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Ingredients

Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Glycereth-7 Triacetate, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Methylpropanediol, Cannabidiol, Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil, Bakuchiol, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil, Rosa Canina Seed Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) Resin, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Citrate, Carbomer, Citric Acid, Aminomethyl Propanol, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caprylyl Glycol, Isopentyldiol, Isomalt, Butylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Lecithin, Tocopherol, Sodium Benzoate
Review

Does Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum has to offer:
 
Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.7 out of 10.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum:
 

🔵 Lightweight Moisturizer Perfect for Combination and Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.7 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a very high humectancy of 8.4 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%) and Methylpropanediol (est. ≈2.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 3.0 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with combination and oily skin who want maximum hydration in a relatively lightweight, non-greasy formula. It combines a significant amount of humectants with a limited amount of occlusive ingredients to boost moisturizing efficacy without feeling too heavy.

This product may also be a good choice for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures, as it balances significant moisturizing potential with a relatively lightweight texture.

💧 A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to combination and 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.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Cannabidiol (est. ≈1.5%), Bakuchiol (est. ≈1.0%), Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil (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.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Bakuchiol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, and Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. 

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, these ingredients do not generate 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.

Pros & Cons of Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing perfect for combination and oily skin
✅ Also a good choice for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, perfect for combination and oily skin. It's also a great option for those with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.
 
With its high antioxidant content, Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation.
 
That said, there are some things about Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Hempz CBD Balancing Act Hydrating Facial Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycereth-7 Triacetate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Methylpropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Cannabidiol
Function:
Origin:
Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Canina Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) Resin
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract
Function:
Origin:
Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Panax Ginseng Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Aminomethyl Propanol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 60
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Isopentyldiol
Function:
Origin:
Isomalt
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
8.4
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
6.1
3.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 8.4 10
8.4
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 6.1 20
3.0
3.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 8.4 10
8.4
All humectants
8.4
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 6.1 20
3.0
All occlusives
6.1
3.0
1.3
0.3
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
n/a
- 1 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Bakuchiol
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
1
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 5.8 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5.8
Cannabidiol
1.5
Bakuchiol
1
Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil
0.3
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract
0.3
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
0.3
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
0.3
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract
0.3
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
0.3
Panax Ginseng Root Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.4 5 No
All soothing
2.4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
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.
Glycereth-7 Triacetate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Glycereth-7 Triacetate
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Dimethicone
Est. %3
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Methylpropanediol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
MethylpropanediolMethylpropanediol is a unique glycol that contains two primary hydroxyl groups. That makes methylpropanediol a powerful humectant and an excellent solvent.
Cannabidiol
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
CannabidiolA hemp-derived, well-researched active compound that offers soothing benefits to the skin and can restore its healthy appearance. It regulates inflammation and may help with chronic skin conditions.
Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Cannabis Sativa Seed OilAlso known as hemp seed oil, an occlusive moisturizing and emollient oil derived from the seeds of industrial hemp. It has nothing to do with full-spectrum CBD or THC. It contains unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant phytosterols, phytol, and vitamin E.
Bakuchiol
Est. %1
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.
Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Passiflora Edulis Seed OilA fatty oil derived from passion fruit seeds. It contains emollient and occlusive linoleic and oleic fatty acids, as well as antioxidants (among which are famous vitamin E and resveratrol).
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit OilAn emollient and occlusive moisturizing oil extracted from the famous açaí palm fruits. It contains fatty acids and is extremely rich in antioxidant and astringent phenolic compounds.
Rosa Canina Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Canina Seed Extract
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.

Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture ExtractAn extract that comes from a certain apple cultivar. It is claimed to have superior properties over any other apple extracts and the patent holder claims that it has anti-wrinkle activity.
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.
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) OilA fatty oil expressed from the fleshy part of an avocado, used in skincare for its excellent emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Avocado oil contains fatty acids, notably oleic acid (up to 80%), squalene, vitamin E, and carotenoids.
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.
Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) Resin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) ResinA soothing, antimicrobial, and wound healing hardened sap from copaiba resin. It contains a fragrant essential oil and various anti-inflammatory terpenes that are aimed at problematic skin.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell ExtractA cell culture extract obtained from a red grape with claimed antioxidant, astringent, and photoprotective properties.
Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chenopodium Quinoa Seed ExtractDerived from quinoa seeds, the extract contains various emollient phytochemicals such as phytosterols, saponins, proteins, and amino acids.
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root ExtractAn antioxidant extract derived from carrots. It is a rich source of the orange-colored beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A). Carrot root extract is often added to skincare products that are aimed at providing a better suntan.
Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) ExtractAn abrasive rice extract rich in various emollient fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamin E.
Panax Ginseng Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Panax Ginseng Root ExtractDerived from the roots of the Korean Ginseng, this extract contains a mixture of antioxidant and soothing ginsenosides which are proven to reduce inflammation and treat eczema. The root is a major part of Chinese traditional medicine.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate CopolymerAn emulsion stabilizer and thickener that helps to create a pleasant, satiny, and light formula texture. It works by forming a gel-like network within water or oil, which both stabilizes other ingredients and produces a thickening effect.
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.
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.
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.
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.
Aminomethyl Propanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aminomethyl PropanolA synthetic ingredient that helps to adjust the pH of a product to make it less acidic.
Polysorbate 60
Est. %0.3
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 Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan IsostearateA mild yet powerful emulsifier primarily utilized to produce water-in-oil emulsions. It helps to create a particularly rich and substantial emulsion.
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.

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.
Isopentyldiol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopentyldiol

An alcohol that improves moisturization by drawing in water.

Isomalt
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
IsomaltIsomalt is a mixture of medium-sized sugars (a.k.a. oligosaccharides) that is prepared from sucrose by treatment with enzymes. In skincare products, it acts as a water-binding humectant ingredient that also serves as a bulking and anticaking agent. It has a mildly sweet taste.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

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.

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.
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.
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.

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.