Merle Norman Nighttime Recovery Cream

Merle Norman Nighttime Recovery Cream
5.5
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.6 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity

Review

Does Merle Norman Nighttime Recovery Cream work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Merle Norman Nighttime Recovery Cream:

  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.5 out of 10.

Well-suited moisturizer for normal skin with a relatively lightweight texture

According to CreamScan analysis, Merle Norman Nighttime Recovery Cream is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.5 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a high humectancy of 6.4 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈2.5%), and a moderate occlusivity of 4.6 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Squalane (est. ≈4.0%) and Myristyl Myristate (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with normal skin. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

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

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Merle Norman Nighttime Recovery Cream has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Centella Asiatica Extract, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, and Folic Acid. 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
55
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Cyclopentasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Cyclohexasiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitol
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
PEG-40 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Tristearate
Function:
Origin:
Saccharide Isomerate
Function:
Origin:
Superoxide Dismutase
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters
Function:
Origin:
Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Hyaluronic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Centella Asiatica Extract
Function:
Origin:
Echinacea Purpurea Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Fagus Sylvatica Bud Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid/Orange/Citrus Limon/Citrus Aurantifolia Polypeptides
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Isocetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Function:
Origin:
Folic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Pyridoxine HCl
Function:
Origin:
Proline
Function:
Origin:
Glycine
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Carnitine
Function:
Origin:
PCA
Function:
Origin:
Alanine
Function:
Origin:
Glutamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Serine
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-24
Function:
Origin:
PEG-8
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Triethanolamine
Function:
Origin:
Diazolidinyl Urea
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Tetrasodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.4
2.5
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
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
9.1
4.0
3.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.4 10
6.4
2.5
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
Occlusivity All occlusives 9.1 20
4.6
4.0
3.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
2.5
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 humectants 6.4 10
6.4
All humectants
6.4
2.5
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
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 9.1 20
4.6
All occlusives
9.1
4.0
3.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Centella Asiatica Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Folic Acid
-
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
All antioxidants 2.1 3 No
All antioxidants
2.1
Superoxide Dismutase
0.3
Hyaluronic Acid
0.3
Centella Asiatica Extract
0.3
Echinacea Purpurea Extract
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.6 5 No
All soothing
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %55
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.
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %9
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.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %6
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.
Squalane
Est. %4
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Myristyl Myristate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Myristyl MyristateAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient ester that is derived from vegetables. This soft, wax-like ester produces a soft and creamy sensorial profile. Myristyl myristate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Glycerin
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %2
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %1.5
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.
Ethylhexyl Stearate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl StearateA palm-derived emollient ester with good lubricity that leaves a smooth after-feel on the skin.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Est. %1
Function
Origin
CyclopentasiloxaneA lightweight, fast-spreading emollient that leaves a very soft and silky after-feel on the skin. Supplied as a clear and colorless liquid, cyclopentasiloxane is often used as a solvent to dissolve other silicones in.
Cyclohexasiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CyclohexasiloxaneA clear silicone fluid with very low viscosity that is commonly used as a solvent and emollient. It has excellent spreadability, rubs in quickly, and leaves a silky smooth after-feel on the skin.
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.
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.
PEG-40 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-40 StearateThis PEG, or polyethylene glycol, is excellent at emulsifying water and oil together to form oil-in-water emulsions. Due to its water-loving nature, PEG-40 stearate can also act as a cleansing agent.
Sorbitan Tristearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan Tristearate
Saccharide Isomerate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharide IsomerateA naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.
Superoxide Dismutase
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Superoxide Dismutase
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.
C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol EstersA mixture of lipids isolated from lanolin. They are similar to the lipids from the skin’s lipid barrier. It is a very good emollient and leaves a shiny and glossy finish on the skin.
Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl PolymethacrylateA synthetic polymer that is typically used as a viscosity modifier. Its benefits include a light after-feel on the skin and soft film, which is why it is frequently used in serums. It can form transparent gels and suspend some oils and particulates.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycyrrhetinic AcidA compound derived from licorice root. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient with some anti-pigment properties.
Hyaluronic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hyaluronic Acid

A potent, skin-identical humectant moisturizing ingredient that is able to bind water 1000 times its own weight. The anti-aging benefits of hyaluronic acid are due to its ability to stimulate the synthesis of collagen in the skin.

Centella Asiatica Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centella Asiatica ExtractAn extract from the leaves of the Gotu kola. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. It increases the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin.
Echinacea Purpurea Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Echinacea Purpurea ExtractAn extract derived from purple echinacea flowers with antioxidant phenolic acids - cichoric and caftaric acid.
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.

Fagus Sylvatica Bud Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Fagus Sylvatica Bud Extract
Ascorbic Acid/Orange/Citrus Limon/Citrus Aurantifolia Polypeptides
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid/Orange/Citrus Limon/Citrus Aurantifolia Polypeptides
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

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.

Isocetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isocetyl Alcohol
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12

A short, synthetically made peptide similar to elastin fragments. It works as a signal peptide, stimulating the growth of skin cells and facilitating skin repair. It has been tested mostly in test-tube experiments so far.

Folic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Folic AcidA critical vitamin for the body that needs more research for topical applications.
Pyridoxine HCl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pyridoxine HClA B-vitamin that helps regulate sebum production.
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.
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.
Palmitoyl Carnitine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Carnitine
PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PCAAlso known as pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, this ingredient is one of the main components of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (which prevents the skin’s surface from drying out).
Alanine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlanineA simple amino acid used in skincare as a humectant moisturizing ingredient. It is a part of the so-called Natural Moisturizing Factor, a complex mixture of free amino acids and other water-soluble compounds found in skin cells.
Glutamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glutamic AcidA non-essential amino acid that serves as a building block for all proteins in the body. It is a moisturizing humectant and a part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of amino acids in skin cells that keeps them hydrated.
Serine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SerineA non-essential amino acid, meaning that our body can produce it. It is the largest constituent of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor and is used in skincare as a humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
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.
Polyquaternium-24
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-24
PEG-8
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-8A synthetic liquid that serves as a humectant. It also works as a solvent because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of ingredients.
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.

Triethanolamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethanolamineA clear, colorless, and highly viscous liquid, this ingredient is an excellent pH adjuster. When it is necessary to neutralize an acidic solution or to generally increase the pH of a product, triethanolamine is a common choice.
Diazolidinyl Urea
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diazolidinyl UreaA synthetic preservative that is effective against most common bacteria. It is not considered broad-spectrum because it does not act against any type of yeast or mold. It is therefore commonly paired with antifungal preservatives.
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.
Tetrasodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrasodium EDTAOne of the most common synthetic chelators. It can reduce the 'hardness' of water and so is often used in rinse-off products.
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.
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.