Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner Review

Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.7Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.7 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.3 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%).

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.

Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.7 out of 10.

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

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈1.5%),
     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).
  • Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈1.0%),
     or Vitamin C, a popular ingredient, yet with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 20 participants (Humbert et al.). This study showed that a cream with a relatively high concentration of 5% ascorbic acid reduced the average wrinkle depth by 7% after 6 months of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ascorbic acid).
Among others, Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner also contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Folic Acid, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, and Adenosine. 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, 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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract (est. ≈70.0%) and Arbutin (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 Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C+ Brightening Toner to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • Lightweight texture
  • A humectant moisturizing boost for any skincare routine
  • Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • 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
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Arbutin
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Carnitine
Function:
Origin:
4-Butylresorcinol
Function:
Origin:
Aleuritic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Yeast Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glycoproteins
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Biotin
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Thiamine HCl
Function:
Origin:
Cyanocobalamin
Function:
Origin:
Riboflavin
Function:
Origin:
Pyridoxine
Function:
Origin:
Folic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Menadione
Function:
Origin:
Bioflavonoids
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Glutathione
Function:
Origin:
Betaine
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-51
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
Function:
Origin:
PPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum
Function:
Origin:
Agar
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Chitosan
Function:
Origin:
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Corallina Officinalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
13.9
6
4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 13.9 10
10.0
6
4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 13.9 10
10
All humectants
13.9
6
4
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 0.6 20
0.3
All occlusives
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 1.5 2.2
2.5 /10 5 1 0.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2.7
Niacinamide
2.2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.5
Ascorbic Acid
0.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
1
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Folic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
-
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
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
70
2
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
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 78.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
78.4
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract
70
Arbutin
2
Niacinamide
1.5
Ascorbic Acid
1
4-Butylresorcinol
0.3
Glycoproteins
0.3
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
0.3
Riboflavin
0.3
Bioflavonoids
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Glutathione
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
0.3
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
0.3
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
0.3
Corallina Officinalis Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.6 5 No
All soothing
3.6
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract
Est. %70
Function
Origin
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit ExtractDerived from the golden kiwi fruit, this extract is rich in humectant polysaccharides and antioxidant organic acids, as well as phenolic compounds.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %6
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.

Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Water
Est. %3
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.
Arbutin
Est. %2
Function
Origin
ArbutinOne of the few potent anti-pigment compounds found naturally in bearberry or cranberry leaves. When applied to the skin, this ingredient converts into hydroquinone, with tyrosinase inhibiting effects.
Niacinamide
Est. %1.5
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.

1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Ascorbic Acid
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid

Also known as vitamin C, this multi-benefit ingredient has proven anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and anti-pigmentation efficacy. It degrades easily when exposed to air and light, so it requires proper packaging to maintain its stability.

Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Seed Oil

Description is coming soon

We check if it works....

 

Carnitine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carnitine
4-Butylresorcinol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
4-Butylresorcinol
Aleuritic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aleuritic Acid
Yeast Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yeast ExtractAlso labeled as faex extract, this is a natural ingredient derived from fresh yeast. It is used in skincare as a humectant. Yeast extract also helps to shield injured or exposed skin and can aid in the skin’s wound healing process.
Glycoproteins
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlycoproteinsA broad term indicating a specific type of proteins, most likely of animal origin.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Ascorbyl PhosphateThe most researched derivative of vitamin C. It boosts collagen synthesis, thereby improving skin structure and elasticity. SAP is effective in the treatment of inflamed acne lesions and has a weak but positive effect on pigmentation issues.
Biotin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BiotinBiotin is an important nutrient that can cause weak hair and nails if deficient. Unfortunately, while biotin supplements have promising studies, topical biotin in creams and serums doesn’t have a large body of evidence to support its use.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA 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.
Thiamine HCl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Thiamine HClAlso known as vitamin B1, the benefits of this ingredient in skincare are not yet clear. It may have some benefits to energy metabolism, but this hasn't been confirmed. It has a typical, sulfur-like smell.
Cyanocobalamin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyanocobalaminA product of bacterial fermentation that may have soothing and rejuvenating skin effects.
Riboflavin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
RiboflavinRiboflavin, also known as Vitamin B2, is used in skincare as a coloring agent due to its bright, brilliant orange-yellow color. The research shows that it is a good antioxidant and can protect the skin from UV-induced damage.
Pyridoxine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PyridoxinePyridoxine, also known as vitamin B6, is required by the body to produce amino acids, carbohydrates, and lipids. Its benefits in skincare have not been researched as of yet.
Folic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Folic AcidA critical vitamin for the body that needs more research for topical applications.
Menadione
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Menadione
Bioflavonoids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BioflavonoidsA mixture of plant-based compounds commonly referred to as flavonoids. Each flavonoid has slightly different properties, but overall they are potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
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.

Glutathione
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlutathioneA naturally occurring tripeptide that combats free radicals and acts as a reducing agent.
Betaine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BetaineAn ingredient derived from the sucrose in sugar beets. It has a negative chemical charge and a positive chemical charge on the same molecule. This allows betaine to be hygroscopic or humectant and thus provide moisturization by drawing water to the skin.
Polyquaternium-51
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-51A biocompatible phospholipid copolymer that is designed to mimic the lipid-based cell membrane found in human skin. Its main function is as a humectant moisturizer.
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl PolymethacrylateA synthetic polymer that is typically used as a viscosity modifier. Its benefits include a light after-feel on the skin and soft film, which is why it is frequently used in serums. It can form transparent gels and suspend some oils and particulates.
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.

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.
Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
PPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
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.
Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) GumA plant-based gum extracted from the seeds of guar or cluster bean. It is comprised of various polysaccharides and is used as a thickening and gelling agent.
Agar
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AgarA multifunctional jelly derived from red algae that can thicken water-based products.
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.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Tromethamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TromethamineAn ingredient based on amino acids that is commonly used as a pH adjuster. It has a high pH, which means that it is basic (alkaline), so adding tromethamine to a skincare product will increase its overall pH level.
Allantoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
Chitosan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChitosanA film-forming polysaccharide derived from the shells of shrimp, crabs, and other crustaceans. It is a very special ingredient that is used to form protective films on wounds in order to promote wound healing.
Polymethyl Methacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polymethyl MethacrylateA powdered ingredient with an impressive sensory profile that gives off a creamy, sometimes velvety feeling on the skin. It is made up of tiny microspheres that roll smoothly across the skin and create slip and high spreadability.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melia Azadirachta Leaf ExtractAn antimicrobial and antioxidant extract derived from Neem leaves – an Indian traditional medicine. Neem leaves have been found to possess antibacterial and antifungal activity. It is also a prospective anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melia Azadirachta Flower ExtractAn antioxidant extract derived from the flowers of the Indian lilac, also known as Neem. It is often used in traditional medicine in India. The Neem flower extracts contain limonoids, which are currently under research for their anti-pigment activity.
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf ExtractAn extract derived from the leaves of Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, a traditional herb used in Ayurveda medicine. It contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory rosmarinic acid, galic acid, flavonoids, and a sweet-scented essential oil.
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root ExtractAn extract derived from the thick roots of curcuma (turmeric), a famous yellow spice and a major ingredient in curry powder. It is used in skincare for its proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Corallina Officinalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Corallina Officinalis ExtractAn extract from red marine alga, Corallina officinalis is used in skincare for its antioxidant properties. It also contains an immense amount of calcium and special, sulfur-containing polysaccharides.
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.
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.
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.

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.
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.