La Mer The Tonic

La Mer The Tonic
5.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity

Review

Does La Mer The Tonic work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using La Mer The Tonic:

  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.4 out of 10.

Lightweight moisturizer ideal for oily skin and a humectant boost for any skincare routine

According to CreamScan analysis, La Mer The Tonic is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.8 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Methyl Gluceth-20 (est. ≈6.0%), Glycereth-26 (est. ≈4.0%) and Laminaria Saccharina Extract (est. ≈3.0%).

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.

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.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, La Mer The Tonic has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Copper Gluconate and Caffeine, 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. 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.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Gluceth-20
Function:
Origin:
Glycereth-26
Function:
Origin:
Laminaria Saccharina Extract
Function:
Origin:
Algae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal
Function:
Origin:
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Copper Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Calcium Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Glycine
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Succinate
Function:
Origin:
Niacin
Function:
Origin:
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
PPG-28-Buteth-35
Function:
Origin:
PPG-5-Ceteth-20
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Benzophenone-4
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Function:
Origin:
Red 33 (CI 17200)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
16.5
6
4
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
1.5
1.5
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 16.5 10
10.0
6
4
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 1.5 20
0.8
1.5
Moisturizing rating
5.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 16.5 10
10
All humectants
16.5
6
4
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
1.5
All occlusives 1.5 20
0.8
All occlusives
1.5
1.5
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
Copper Gluconate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Caffeine
-
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
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.9 3 No
All antioxidants
2.9
Algae Extract
2
Tocopheryl Succinate
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Caffeine
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.9 5 No
All soothing
3.9
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
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.
Methyl Gluceth-20
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Methyl Gluceth-20A humectant synthetically derived from glucose. It takes on the form of a clear, syrupy liquid.
Glycereth-26
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycereth-26

A glycerin-based ingredient with humectant moisturizing properties. It is an excellent emulsifier and thickener.

Laminaria Saccharina Extract
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Laminaria Saccharina ExtractA soothing extract derived from a species of edible brown seaweed called sugar kelp or Devil’s apron (due to its shape and large surface). It contains water-binding and soothing polysaccharides, as well as many beneficial minerals.
Algae Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Algae ExtractThe name describes any extract made from any kind of algae. Algae extracts are moisturizing humectants – the gelatin-like polysaccharides bind and retain water, thereby hydrating the skin. Algae is a rich source of emollient and antioxidant compounds.
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed OilAn emollient fatty oil expressed from sesame seeds. It is made up majorly of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (up to 45%), and oleic acid (up to 38%). Sesame oil is an occlusive moisturizer that is rich in antioxidant compounds.
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed PowderA finely milled powder made from alfalfa seeds that contains humectant moisturizing oligosaccharides. It also acts as a gentle abrasive.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) SeedcakeThe solid remaining after the oil pressing of sunflower seeds. The seed cake is used in skincare for its grainy structure as an abrasive ingredient in peelings. It leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft due to the sunflower oil content.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed MealMade by grinding sweet almonds into a relatively coarse powder, this seed meal is gently abrasive as well as occlusive moisturizing (because the particles still contain a bit of sweet almond oil).
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf OilAn essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Eucalyptus globulus, a tall, evergreen, Australian tree with waxy leaves. It mostly consists of cineole – which has potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity.
Sodium Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium GluconateA chelating ingredient that ensures that the harmful metal ions in a formula are unreactive. It also protects other ingredients from degrading.
Copper Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Copper GluconateAn organic salt of copper that can aid in the wound healing process. The manufacturer claims it also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, although this has yet to be confirmed. Copper gluconate is also a perspective anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Calcium Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Calcium GluconateA white crystalline powder that can act as a humectant when dissolved into water. It is also a chelating agent.
Glycine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlycineA humectant moisturizing amino acid that is a part of skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor. Some recent studies suggest that it may have barrier repair properties.
Zinc Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc GluconateOne of the most commonly used ingredients in anti-acne products. It is an organic salt of zinc that helps to combat microbial infections, soothes and heals inflamed pimples, and regulates hormones in the skin.
Tocopheryl Succinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Succinate
Niacin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
NiacinAn active form of vitamin B3 that is used to support and restore the healthy appearance of the skin, although it is less effective than Niacinamide.
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed PowderA gentle abrasive powder obtained from milled sesame seeds with a fatty emollient oil, humectant moisturizing proteins, amino acids, and fragrant compounds.
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.

PPG-28-Buteth-35
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-28-Buteth-35
PPG-5-Ceteth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PPG-5-Ceteth-20A synthetic emulsifier that can also contribute to the smooth feel of a product.
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.

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.
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.
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.
Sucrose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SucroseThis ingredient is more commonly known as table sugar or saccharose and is derived from sugar beets or sugar cane. It is used as a humectant moisturizing ingredient in skincare products, as well as a sweetener.
Caffeine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CaffeineAn antioxidant compound that is obtained from coffee and tea leaves. It increases the microcirculation of blood in the skin and is claimed to be able to reduce the appearance of orange peel skin (although the research is lacking).
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.
Benzophenone-4
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzophenone-4Also known as sulisobenzone, it is a chemical sunscreen that protects against UVB and most UVA radiation. It is weaker than typical sunscreens and is usually accompanied by other UV absorbers to be most effective.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)A bright yellow colorant that is often also listed as FD&C Yellow 5.
Red 33 (CI 17200)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Red 33 (CI 17200)Also known as D&C Red 33 or Acid Red 33, this ingredient is a synthetic azo used to color skincare products. It produces a cool red hue, with undertones of blue that lead to a hint of purple.