MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum Review

MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum
6.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.7 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
7Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.8 out of 10.
  • Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 7.0 out of 10, MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum:
 

Lightweight Moisturizer Perfect for Combination and Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 3.7 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with combination and 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.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to combination and 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.

Significant Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 7.0 out of 10.

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

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%),
     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).
  • Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
     the most effective non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. Numerous clinical studies have shown its positive effects at concentrations as low as 0.1%. A study with 36 participants (Kafi et al.) confirmed that a lotion containing 0.4% retinol reduced wrinkle severity by 21% after 24 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without retinol (vehicle).
Among others, MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum also contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Caffeine, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and Camellia Sinensis 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 contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 

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

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%).

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 MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of MDSolarSciences Evening Retinol Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Humectant-rich moisturizing perfect for combination and oily skin
  • Also a good choice for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures
  • Lightweight texture
  • A humectant moisturizing boost for any skincare routine
  • Delivers signficant 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
0.1
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Nylon-12
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Ferric Hexapeptide-35
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Water
Function:
Origin:
Ferulic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Callus Culture Extract
Function:
Origin:
Laminaria Digitata Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sophora Flavescens Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Proline
Function:
Origin:
Diatomaceous Earth
Function:
Origin:
Rosa Moschata Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate-13
Function:
Origin:
Hexylresorcinol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Function:
Origin:
Ethyl Oleate
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Dimethiconol
Function:
Origin:
Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Polyurethane Crosspolymer-1
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Phenylpropanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.2
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
7.5
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.2 10
10.0
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 7.5 20
3.7
6.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.2 10
10
All humectants
11.2
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 7.5 20
3.7
All occlusives
7.5
6.0
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
6 /10 4 3 4.5
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 1 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
7
Niacinamide
4.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
3
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
1
Caffeine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
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
All antioxidants 7.6 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
7.6
Niacinamide
3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
1
Caffeine
0.3
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Ferulic Acid
0.3
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
0.3
Laminaria Digitata Extract
0.3
Sophora Flavescens Root Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
0.3
Hexylresorcinol
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 4.5 5 No
All soothing
4.5
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe 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.
Propanediol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Niacinamide
Est. %3
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.

Nylon-12
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Nylon-12A synthetic powdered ingredient that imparts unique sensorial characteristics due to its microsphere structure. It can also control viscosity by bulking up the oil phase of a skincare product.
Glycerin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Polysilicone-11
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. According to a recent clinical study, THDA has all the capabilities of regular vitamin C, including anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment activity.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Retinol

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

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).
Ferric Hexapeptide-35
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ferric Hexapeptide-35
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

A small peptide consisting of three amino acids with anti-wrinkle effects. Together with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, it is a part of the popular anti-wrinkle complex called Matrixyl™ 3000.

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

A synthetic peptide that mimics the activity of immunoglobulin G and signals to the skin to stop the inflammation. It has been shown in studies to reduce wrinkles and enhance collagen content.

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.
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.

Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Water
Ferulic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ferulic AcidA plant-based phenolic acid with powerful and scientifically proven antioxidant properties. It enhances the effects of vitamins C and E, as well as the UV protective effects of sunscreens.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) ExtractAn extract obtained from the whole German chamomile plant that contains nice-smelling chamazulene and bisabolol, as well as large amounts of soothing mucilage.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf ExtractDerived 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.
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.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf ExtractA soothing and astringent extract derived from the fragrant, spicy leaves of rosemary. It has strong antioxidant properties. Rosemary extract can reduce signs of inflammation and also acts as an emollient and antimicrobial agent.
Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) ExtractAn extract derived from an edible mushroom known as snow fungus. It is full of various proteins, fiber, and humectant moisturizing polysaccharides.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) OilAn essential oil derived from common, or true, lavender. It is used in skincare for its lovely, calming scent. Like all essential oils, however, it may cause a contact skin allergy in more sensitive individuals.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Callus Culture Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Callus Culture Extract
Laminaria Digitata Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laminaria Digitata ExtractAn antioxidant extract obtained from an edible brown seaweed called oarweed. It contains many humectant and gelling polysaccharides, as well as beneficial minerals.
Sophora Flavescens Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sophora Flavescens Root Extract
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.
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.

Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf OilA fragrant and antioxidant essential tea tree oil praised for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oil helps to treat acne, inflamed skin, and small wounds. It might, however, cause allergies and skin irritations.
Proline
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ProlineThe best humectant moisturizer of all the amino acids. It is a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor and increases hydration in the top layers of the skin. It also has antioxidant activity and helps to heal damaged skin.
Diatomaceous Earth
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diatomaceous Earth
Rosa Moschata Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosa Moschata Seed OilAn occlusive and emollient fatty oil expressed from the seeds of the musk rose that is rich in antioxidant carotenoids such as pro-vitamin A.
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.
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.

Polyacrylate-13
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyacrylate-13A synthetic, film-forming ingredient that creates a network around other ingredients in the formula and protects them from being easily washed away.
Hexylresorcinol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HexylresorcinolA synthetic compound. It is an anti-pigment ingredient that has been shown to be effective in inhibiting tyrosinase activity.
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Stearoyl GlutamateA useful ingredient for both cleansing and emulsifying purposes. It is a powerful agent for washing away dirt and oils from the skin.
Ethyl Oleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethyl OleateAn emollient derived from oleic acid that sits on top of the skin and leaves it soft, shiny, and glossy. It has a faint floral scent.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarbomerA 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.
Dimethiconol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DimethiconolA synthetic dimethicone with rich, non-tacky emolliency. It features the typical sensorial profile of silicones, with high spreadability and a luxurious, oil-free after-feel. Dimethiconol can also serve as an antifoaming agent.
Polyisobutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyisobuteneA highly viscous liquid that is used in lip gloss formulations to prolong wear time and add shimmer. Polyisobutene dramatically increases the thickness of skincare products it is added to.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilAn occlusive moisturizing oil expressed from soybeans. It does not leave an oily feeling on the skin due to its low content of saturated fatty acids. Glycine soja oil contains emollient fatty acids and a significant amount of antioxidants.
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SorbitolA sweet-tasting alcohol derived from glucose. Aside from its sweet taste (for which it is used as a very common sweetener), Sorbitol is also very good at retaining water and is used in skincare as a humectant.
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylhydroxamic AcidA chelating agent used alongside preservatives in order to boost their antimicrobial activity.
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 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.

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.
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.
Polyurethane Crosspolymer-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyurethane Crosspolymer-1
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.
Phenylpropanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenylpropanolPhenylpropanol is a naturally occurring component of many essential oils. It is a colourless, oily liquid with a sweet, floral, balsamic scent. It is used in skincare as a solvent for oil-soluble ingredients and as a fragrance component.