KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer

KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer
6.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
2.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers

Review

Does KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.2 out of 10.
  • Soothing: KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Lightweight moisturizer perfect for oily to normal skin

According to CreamScan analysis, KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 2.3 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, due to the high content of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈9.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with 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.

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

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Lactobacillus Ferment, Bakuchiol, and Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract. 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 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.

Rich in skin-protecting antioxidants

We estimate that KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%).

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.

Skin soothing and calming potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, KORA Organics Plant Stem Cell Retinol Alternative Firming Moisturizer is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈60.0%) and Lactobacillus Ferment (est. ≈2.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

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Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
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
Est. %
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Coconut Alkanes
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Lactobacillus Ferment
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Bakuchiol
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Canina Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Lactobacillus
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Eragrostis Tef Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sclerotium Gum
Function:
Origin:
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Eclipta Prostrata Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Phytate
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Corallina Officinalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Farnesol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
69.0
60
9
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
4.7
2.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 69 10
10.0
60
9
Occlusivity All occlusives 4.7 20
2.3
2.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
60
9
All humectants 69 10
10
All humectants
69.0
60
9
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 4.7 20
2.3
All occlusives
4.7
2.5
1.0
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
- 2 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Lactobacillus Ferment
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
2
Bakuchiol
-
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
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
60
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
All antioxidants 64.8 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
64.8
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
60
Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract
0.3
Bakuchiol
0.3
Lactobacillus
0.3
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
0.3
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
0.3
Corallina Officinalis Extract
0.3
Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract
0.3
Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
0.3
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract
0.3
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract
0.3
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract
0.3
Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
60
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 63.8 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
63.8
60
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %60
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.
Glycerin
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %6
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.
Coconut Alkanes
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Coconut AlkanesAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient mixture that is similar to paraffin. It is produced from coconut oil and can allegedly form a soft, non-greasy film on the skin’s surface. It can be used as an alternative to silicones.
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.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %2.5
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.
Lactobacillus Ferment
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Lactobacillus FermentA biotechnological product – a mixture of metabolic products of Lactobacillus culture. Some Lactobacillus forms have been reported to have anti-wrinkle and barrier repairing effects, as well as able to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and gloss.
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).
Cetearyl Olivate
Est. %1.3
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.

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %1
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.
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.
Bakuchiol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
Lactobacillus
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LactobacillusA genus of probiotic bacteria. Lactobacillus bacteria are part of the human microflora and their ferment products contain antioxidants.
Ceramide NP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NPAlso known as ceramide 3, it is the most common ceramide in our skin. It helps to restore the skin’s lipid barrier and alleviate the symptoms of dry and cracked skin. Research has shown that skin suffering from conditions such as AD lacks ceramides.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %0.3
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.
Hydrolyzed Eragrostis Tef Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Eragrostis Tef Seed Extract
Sclerotium Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclerotium GumA thickener with a silky, velvety feel that many manufacturers use as an alternative to silicones.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit ExtractSimilar to coconut milk or water, this fragrant extract has a sweet, coconut scent and contains a beneficial mixture of sugars, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It is used as an emollient ingredient in skincare due to its content of lipids and fatty acids.
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.
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.
Eclipta Prostrata Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eclipta Prostrata ExtractA soothing extract of false daisy that contains a variety of active anti-inflammatory phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenes, phytosterols, and special compounds called thiopenes.
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.
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.
Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pelargonium Graveolens Flower OilA fragrant essential oil with a distinct, rose-like scent derived from rose geranium. It is widely used in aromatherapy and massage therapy to ease tension. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Sodium Phytate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PhytateSodium phytate is a chelating agent that serves to remove heavy metal ions from water. Removing metal ions helps other ingredients, such as antioxidants and preservatives, to perform better and keep products from separating.
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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coccinia Indica Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from the cucumber-like fruits of ivy gourd. It contains a large amount of soothing mucilage as well as some antioxidant carotenoids. It has also been shown that the extract may have some anti-allergy properties.
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.

Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Moringa Oleifera Seed OilAn oil obtained from the seeds of Moringa oleifera, a fast-growing bush native to Northern India and the sub-Himalayan regions. It contains mainly oleic acid, as well as many additional anti-inflammatory compounds and high levels of vitamin E.
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit ExtractAn under-researched extract obtained from the eggplant fruit. Eggplant contains plant pigments called anthocyanins and phenolic compounds, such as chlorogenic acid, which are excellent antioxidants.
Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Flower ExtractAn extract obtained the flowers of Aloe vera – which are a rich source of antioxidant flavonoids (mainly apigenin). It also contains a bit of the emollient mucilage.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
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.
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf ExtractA fragrant extract derived from the flowering basil plant that contains essential oil and antioxidants such as terpenes, flavonoids, and vitamin K.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.