Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter Review

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter
8.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
7.1 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter has to offer:
 
  • Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 8.6 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter:
 

Very Rich Moisturizer Well-Suited for Dry to Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter is intensely moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 8.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather occlusive. It has a high humectancy of 7.1 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%), and a maximum occlusivity of 10 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (est. ≈11.0%) and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with dry to very dry skin who want intense hydration. It combines a significant concentration of humectants with an exceptional level of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing specifically for dry skin.

The occlusive profile of Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

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

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (est. ≈11.0%) and Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil (est. ≈3.5%).

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.

Things to Be Aware Of: Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter to your skincare routine:
 

Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It’s Better When Paired with Some Humectants

Based on our analysis, Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter contains a significant concentration of humectants, but people with very dry skin would likely benefit from adding additional humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product provides.

If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Gluconolactone, two ingredients often 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.

While this does not categorically exclude 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 accessible 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 Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Josie Maran Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Very rich moisturizer perfect for dry and very dry skin: exceptionally occlusive and humectant-packed
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution

Cons: 

  • May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
  • Ideally needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Sclerotium Gum
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Octyldodecyl PCA
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Quercetin
Function:
Origin:
Gluconolactone
Function:
Origin:
Alkanna Tinctoria Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Dunaliella Salina Extract
Function:
Origin:
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
7.1
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
25.1
11.0
6.0
3.5
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
8.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 7.1 10
7.1
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 25.1 20
10.0
11.0
6.0
3.5
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
8.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 7.1 10
7.1
All humectants
7.1
4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
11
6
3.5
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 25.1 20
10.0
All occlusives
25.1
11.0
6.0
3.5
2.5
0.3
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
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Gluconolactone
-
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
11
3.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 18.8 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
18.8
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
11
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil
3.5
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
1.3
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
0.3
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes
0.3
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Quercetin
0.3
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
0.3
Dunaliella Salina Extract
0.3
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.8 5 No
All soothing
2.8
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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.
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Est. %11
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.
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.
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil
Est. %3.5
Function
Origin
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed OilA fatty oil pressed from safflower seeds that is used as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It contains unusually high amounts of linoleic acid (up to 70%), as well as antioxidant compounds such as vitamin E, phytosterols, and phenolics.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA naturally-derived emollient ester. It is a blend of caprylates and caprates and, relative to other emollients, is lightweight and dry on the skin. As a result, coco-caprylate/caprate serves as a natural alternative to volatile silicones.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %2.5
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.
Cetearyl Olivate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Cetearyl Olivate

A multifunctional ingredient derived from plants that primarily serves as an emulsifier. Supplied as a waxy ivory-colored flake, it can also be used as an emollient and slip modifier that gives a product an overall light, silky finish.

Sorbitan Olivate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Sorbitan OlivateAn ester of sorbitol (a type of sugar alcohol) and olive oil fatty acids. It is used as an emulsifying agent to stabilize oil droplets in water (or vice versa).
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceA gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
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.
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.
Sclerotium Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclerotium GumA thickener with a silky, velvety feel that many manufacturers use as an alternative to silicones.
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.
Octyldodecyl PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Octyldodecyl PCA
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
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.
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.
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) OleosomesMicroscopic droplets of safflower oil surrounded by a membrane. Oleosomes are able to create a very stable emulsion and are better absorbed by the skin. Safflower oil offers occlusive, emollient, and antioxidant properties.
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.
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) ExtractA fragrant extract with a hay-like scent derived from the alfalfa plant. It contains various antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids and saponins.
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrasodium Glutamate DiacetateA biodegradable chelating agent that chemically captures the heavy metal ions naturally present in water and disarms their harmful effects.
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.
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.

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.
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.

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.
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.
Quercetin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Quercetin
Gluconolactone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GluconolactoneA PHA derived from glucose. It has exfoliating and humectant properties and acts as a penetration enhancer for other ingredients. It has also been shown to assist in the treatment of acne and the prevention of photoaging.
Alkanna Tinctoria Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alkanna Tinctoria Root Extract
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.

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.
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zea Mays (Corn) OilAn occlusive moisturizing fatty oil extracted from the germ of corn grains. It is made up of linoleic, oleic, and palmitic acids, and is suitable for all skin types.
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Symphytum Officinale Leaf ExtractA soothing extract that is obtained from the leaves of the comfrey plant. It contains anti-inflammatory allantoin, a caffeine-like compound.
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800)An orange-red plant pigment with powerful antioxidant activity.
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.
Dunaliella Salina Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dunaliella Salina ExtractDerived from a species of bright red algae, this extract contains the potent antioxidant beta-carotene, as well as a humectant moisturizing glycerol.
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil

A famous olive oil widely used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive moisturizer. It contains mainly unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant flavonoids, and oleuropeins. Olive oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.

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.