MAC Cosmetics MAC Prep + Prime Moisture Infusion Serum

MAC Cosmetics MAC Prep + Prime Moisture Infusion Serum
6.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
2.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
$$$$

Review

Results you may expect from using MAC Cosmetics MAC Prep + Prime Moisture Infusion Serum:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using MAC Cosmetics MAC Prep + Prime Moisture Infusion Serum:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.1 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

How moisturizing is it?

Highly moisturizing: MAC Cosmetics MAC Prep + Prime Moisture Infusion Serum has a moisturizing rating of 6.1 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 2.2 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈4.0%) and Biosaccharide Gum-1 (est. ≈2.0%).

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

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, MAC Cosmetics MAC Prep + Prime Moisture Infusion Serum has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Caffeine, an ingredient marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Caffeine provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does 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, could deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Antioxidant benefits

We estimate that MAC Cosmetics MAC Prep + Prime Moisture Infusion Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Tocopheryl Acetate (est. ≈0.3%), Algae Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Sodium Hyaluronate (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.

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
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Ratings

All humectants
11.8
4
2
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
4.5
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.8 10
10.0
4
2
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 4.5 20
2.2
3.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
2
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.8 10
10
All humectants
11.8
4
2
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 4.5 20
2.2
All occlusives
4.5
3.0
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 -
Total
0
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
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 3.6 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.6
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Algae Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
0.3
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
0.3
Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract
0.3
Punica Granatum Fruit Juice
0.3
Caffeine
0.3
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
0.3
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 4.4 5 No
All soothing
4.4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
Function
Origin
The 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 Trimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
A lightweight and volatile silicone known for its excellent solvency. This silicone has a silky, cushiony feel with excellent lubricity and is commonly used as an emollient in silicone-based skincare products.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Est. %2
Function
Origin
A polysaccharide with humectant moisturizing and soothing properties.
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
A silicone with the unusual trait of being able to disperse in water. It moisturizes the skin as a humectant and leaves a soft and smooth after-feel. This ingredient also has foam-boosting properties.
Glycerin
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin

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

PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
A white paste-like substance derived from castor oil that belongs to a group of ingredients called PEGs (polyethylene glycols). It acts as a perfume solubilizer that helps fragrance agents dissolve in water and as a cleansing agent.
Methyl Gluceth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A humectant synthetically derived from glucose. It takes on the form of a clear, syrupy liquid.
Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

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.

Algae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin

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.

Yeast Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Also 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.
Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fragrant extract obtained from tangerine peels which, like other citrus peels, contains a citrusy-scented volatile phytochemical called limonene.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Derived from Aloe vera leaves, this moisturizing humectant, soothing, and antioxidant extract is commonly used in products targeting eczema, sunburn, or dermatitis. It soothes the skin and reduces the signs of inflammation and sensitivity.
Hordeum Vulgare Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A soothing and emollient extract derived from barley, a cereal grain commonly used in the breadmaking and beer fermentation process. It contains a beneficial polysaccharide called beta-glucan, as well as flavonoids and organic acids.
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract from the roots of the Japanese knotweed, a plant from East Asia that has spread around the world as an invasive plant. It contains various antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-pigment (more tests are necessary) phytochemicals.
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A soothing, cooling, and emollient extract derived from cucumbers. Cucumber has been used in skincare for centuries and is used to treat skin problems such as eye swelling, sunburn, and itchy and irritated skin.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A potent antioxidant and emollient extract derived from grape seeds. It contains antioxidant flavonoids, tannins, proanthocyanidins, phytosterols, carotenoids, and vitamin E. It is often used in skincare products aimed at soothing and healing irritated skin.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract derived from rosemary leaves. It contains a fragrant essential oil and is a strong antioxidant with astringent tannins.
Selaginella Tamariscina Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract from hops flowers. Hops have been used traditionally to treat skin inflammation. The extract is rich in antioxidants and has antifungal and antimicrobial activity.
Padina Pavonica Thallus Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Derived from small brown marine algae, this soothing extract is rich in minerals, proteins, essential amino acids, carotenoids, and gel-forming polysaccharides called alginates.
Astrocaryum Murumuru Seed Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A butter-like, occlusive moisturizing, and emollient fatty oil extracted from the seeds of Murumuru palm. It consists mainly of lauric and myristic acid, as well as smaller amounts of oleic acid.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A famous occlusive moisturizing and emollient oil. It is derived from coconuts and may give a product a lovely coconut scent. Coconut oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Punica Granatum Fruit Juice
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Caffeine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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).
Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A sweet-tasting saccharide that can be found in various yeasts and fungi and that is manufactured from starch for cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most popular sugars in skincare and is mainly used for its humectant properties.
Propylene Glycol Dicaprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A thin, non-viscous emollient that gives shine with a smooth, non-greasy, and slightly powdery after-feel. It is often compared to mineral oil and can be used to replace this heavier oil without feeling overly greasy.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
Sodium PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
One of the most important parts of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Sodium PCA is used in skincare for its fantastic humectant properties.
Phytantriol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A rich emollient without the oily after-feel, making it a popular replacement for mineral oil. It is derived from natural sources such as palm oil and palm kernel oil. Ethylhexyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Acetyl Carnitine HCl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Tromethamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Silica Dimethyl Silylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic 'filler' powder primarily used as a formula helper. It is added in skincare products to adjust their consistency and thickness.
Linolenic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An essential polyunsaturated occlusive fatty acid isolated from various plant oils. It is necessary for the correct barrier function of the skin and moisturizes without leaving a sticky after-feel.
Linoleic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fatty acid isolated from various plant oils (notably evening primrose, safflower, grape seed, and sunflower oil). It is an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that doesn't leave an oily, sticky residue and is especially suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemical obtained from Creosote bush. It can also be created synthetically.
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.