MediCube Red Cream Review

MediCube Red Cream
5.5
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
4.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does MediCube Red Cream Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what MediCube Red Cream has to offer:
 
  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.5 out of 10.
  • Considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy: MediCube Red Cream has an anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10, indicating a moderate ability to reduce wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of MediCube Red Cream

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using MediCube Red Cream:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, MediCube Red Cream is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.5 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.0 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycerin (est. ≈22.0%), Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%) and Methylpropanediol (est. ≈2.0%).

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.

A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to 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.

Considerable Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, MediCube Red Cream has a moderate anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient 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).
 
Among others, MediCube Red Cream also contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Adenosine, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, and Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed 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.
 
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 MediCube Red Cream 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 MediCube Red Cream

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of MediCube Red Cream to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
  • Lightweight texture
  • A humectant moisturizing boost for any skincare routine
  • Provides considerable 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
35
22
11
6
4
3
2
1.5
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Cream
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Methylpropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Dimethyl Sulfone
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Palmitic Acid
Function:
Origin:
C12-14 Pareth-12
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
o-Cymen-5-ol
Function:
Origin:
4-Terpineol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Zinc PCA
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Colloidal Sulfur
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glucose
Function:
Origin:
Coptis Japonica Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Myristic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Arachidic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Oleic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Troxerutin
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Cladosiphon Okamuranus Extract
Function:
Origin:
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Decyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Levulinic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Asparagus Cochinchinensis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxycinnamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Rutin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
30.0
22
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
2.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 30.0 10
10.0
22
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 2.1 20
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
22
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 30.0 10
10
All humectants
30.0
22
3
2
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 2.1 20
1.0
All occlusives
2.1
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
6 /10 4 3 4.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
4.5
Niacinamide
4.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
3
Adenosine
-
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
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
4.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 5.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5.4
Niacinamide
3
o-Cymen-5-ol
0.3
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
0.3
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
0.3
Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract
0.3
Rutin
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 4.8 5 No
All soothing
4.8
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Cream
Est. %35
Function
Origin
Cream
Glycerin
Est. %22
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Stearyl Alcohol
Est. %11
Function
Origin
Stearyl AlcoholA natural fatty alcohol that thickens, stabilizes, and keeps emulsions a bright white color. It has many uses, the main one being as an emulsifier. It also acts as an opacifying agent and emollient.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glyceryl StearateAn emollient and emulsifier typically derived from vegetable sources through a chemical reaction with glycerin. It provides stability, texture, and consistency to formulations. Its main function is to allow oil and water to mix.
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.

Methylpropanediol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
MethylpropanediolMethylpropanediol is a unique glycol that contains two primary hydroxyl groups. That makes methylpropanediol a powerful humectant and an excellent solvent.
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated PolyisobuteneA viscous liquid that makes a great oil base due to its smooth sensorial profile. It has emollient features, including good spreadability and little tack upon application. It also has the added benefit of being able to thicken products.
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
Dimethyl Sulfone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethyl Sulfone
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl EthylhexanoateA clear, pale yellow liquid, that functions as an emollient and a solvent, meaning that it is useful for dissolving oil-soluble ingredients.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
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.
Palmitic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitic AcidA saturated fatty acid used in skincare as a strongly occlusive moisturizer and barrier repairing, emollient ingredient. It is a waxy-looking, white solid. Palmitic acid can be commonly found in animal and vegetable fats, notably palm oil.
C12-14 Pareth-12
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C12-14 Pareth-12
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
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.
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Stearate CitrateAn ingredient composed of citric acid, stearic acid, and glycerin. Glyceryl stearate citrate acts as an emollient in skincare products, making the skin appear smooth and pleasant to the touch.
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.
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.
Tromethamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TromethamineAn 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.
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salicylic AcidThis effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.
o-Cymen-5-ol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
o-Cymen-5-olA preservative related to chemicals found in the herb thyme. It has its own unique smell but is very effective even at small amounts.
4-Terpineol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
4-Terpineol
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.
Zinc PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc PCAA two-part ingredient: Zinc helps to control sebum and bacteria in acne-prone skin, while skin-identical PCA is a moisturizing humectant. Zinc PCA may even boost collagen production and so is researched as a potential anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

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.

Colloidal Sulfur
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Colloidal Sulfur
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.
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.
Myristyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristyl AlcoholA naturally derived fatty alcohol that thickens and stabilizes emulsions.
Glucose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlucoseA simple sugar that is also one of two components of sucrose, or table sugar. It is used as a humectant in skincare products. Glucose is also used to flavor lip care cosmetics because of its mildly sweet taste.
Coptis Japonica Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coptis Japonica Extract
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.

Lauryl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lauryl Alcohol
Myristic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristic AcidA common fatty acid found in various vegetable oils, most notably palm and coconut oil. It is a strongly occlusive moisturizing, emollient, and emulsifying ingredient.
Arachidic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidic Acid
Oleic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oleic AcidAn omega-9 fatty acid commonly found in vegetable oils. It is occlusive moisturizing, emollient and emulsifying.
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.

Troxerutin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Troxerutin
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Propanediol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.

Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centella Asiatica Leaf ExtractA well-researched soothing, wound-healing, and promising anti-aging extract that is obtained from the leaves of the Gotu Kola.
Cladosiphon Okamuranus Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cladosiphon Okamuranus ExtractAn algal extract with fucoidan as its main compound - a humectant polysaccharide with healing properties due to the sulfur groups in its structure. It can show some anti-pigment activity.
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark ExtractA potent, soothing extract from the bark of the white willow. It has potent anti-inflammatory effects due to its salicin content. Tannins from the willow bark extract have astringent effects and can aid in the skin’s healing process.
Decyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Decyl GlucosideA surfactant that can function as both a cleansing agent and emulsifier. As a cleansing agent, it is very mild on the skin. As an emulsifier, decyl glucoside will produce oil-in-water emulsions. It is naturally derived from vegetable oils and starch.
Levulinic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Levulinic AcidLevulinic acid can be found in both natural and processed foods, such as Chinese quince, papaya, rice, sake, and wheaten bread. It is manufactured from starch by chemical processes and is used as a masking ingredient. It is also claimed by the manufacturer to have a good bactericidal efficacy.
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed ExtractAn antioxidant and emollient extract derived from coffee beans. It has been proven to improve collagen and elastin production in the skin. A small clinical study tested the anti-aging effects of coffee berry extract, and the results were very promising.
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.

Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Leaf Extract
Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract
Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract
Asparagus Cochinchinensis Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Asparagus Cochinchinensis Root Extract
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment
Hydroxycinnamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxycinnamic Acid
Rutin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rutin