Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream
6.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
2.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
8.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers

Review

Does Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.1 out of 10.
  • Potent anti-wrinkle effect. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 8.5 out of 10, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Lightweight moisturizer perfect for oily to normal skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream is highly moisturizing, with 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 Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%) and Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with 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.

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

Potent anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream has a very high anti-wrinkle rating of 8.5 out of 10.

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

  • Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%),
     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, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream also contains contains Retinyl Propionate and Swertia Chirata Extract, 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 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 Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. β‰ˆ5.0%).

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.

Skin soothing and calming potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. β‰ˆ5.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
9
5
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
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
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Isostearyl Hydroxystearate
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
C14-22 Alcohols
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Yeast Extract
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Retinyl Propionate
Function:
Origin:
Oleyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Serine
Function:
Origin:
Hexyldecanol
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
Function:
Origin:
Urea
Function:
Origin:
Yeast Amino Acids
Function:
Origin:
Trehalose
Function:
Origin:
Inositol
Function:
Origin:
Taurine
Function:
Origin:
Betaine
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polyglucuronic Acid
Function:
Origin:
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Dioscorea Villosa (Wild Yam) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polyacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Algin
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Swertia Chirata Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Pullulan
Function:
Origin:
Disodium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
PEG-75 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Ceteth-20
Function:
Origin:
Steareth-20
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Picolinamide
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate
Function:
Origin:
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Function:
Origin:
Red 4 (CI 14700)
Function:
Origin:
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
13.2
5
4
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
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
4.5
3.0
1.5
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 13.2 10
10.0
5
4
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
Occlusivity All occlusives 4.5 20
2.2
3.0
1.5
Moisturizing rating
6.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
5
4
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
All humectants 13.2 10
10
All humectants
13.2
5
4
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
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
1.5
All occlusives 4.5 20
2.2
All occlusives
4.5
3.0
1.5
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 5 6
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
8.5
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
5
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Retinyl Propionate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Swertia Chirata Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
8.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 5.9 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5.9
Niacinamide
5
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
5
0.3
0.3
All soothing 5.6 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.6
5
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.
Isostearyl Hydroxystearate
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Isostearyl Hydroxystearate
Niacinamide
Est. %5
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.

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.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %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.
C14-22 Alcohols
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
C14-22 AlcoholsA naturally-derived emulsion stabilizer that has a light feel. It is not a drying alcohol, in fact the emulsions it helps create can make the skin feel soft and cushioned.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %2
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA 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.
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.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %1.3
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. %1
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.
Hydrolyzed Yeast Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Yeast Extract
Isopropyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl PalmitateAn emollient ester of palmitic acid and isopropanol that gives the skin a smooth, soft, dry, non-oily after-feel. Isopropyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
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.

Retinyl Propionate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Retinyl PropionateAn esterified vitamin A that has better stability and, according to studies, works just as well as retinol in anti-aging and acne-reducing products. It speeds up skin cell regeneration and boosts collagen production.
Oleyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oleyl Alcohol
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.

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.
Hexyldecanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HexyldecanolAn oil-like ingredient (ester) that is more stable and easy to incorporate than some other oil-based emollients. It is used in water-free and stick products.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) ExtractExtracted from soybeans, this ingredient contains antioxidant and soothing phytochemicals and is especially suitable for aging skin.
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.

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) SterolsA mixture of phytosterols isolated from soybean oil. Phytosterols, when used in skincare products, have emollient properties and can make the skin feel softer and smoother.
Urea
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
UreaUrea can be found in urine, skin, and other tissues as a degradation product of proteins. In concentrations below 5%, urea is humectant moisturizing. At concentrations above 10% it is keratolytic, that helps to break away old, flaking, and cracked skin.
Yeast Amino Acids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yeast Amino AcidsYeast amino acids are both essential and non-essential amino acids derived from yeast proteins. Some of the amino acids found in yeast are histidine, lysine, and cysteine. This ingredient is a humectant that moisturizes skin by attracting water.
Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrehaloseA 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.
Inositol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
InositolA humectant moisturizing, sugar-like compound that is present in all the cells of the body, but especially the brain. It is manufactured from sugar beets or carob tree pods for skincare purposes.
Taurine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Taurine
Betaine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BetaineAn ingredient derived from the sucrose in sugar beets. It has a negative chemical charge and a positive chemical charge on the same molecule. This allows betaine to be hygroscopic or humectant and thus provide moisturization by drawing water to the skin.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Polyglucuronic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglucuronic Acid
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Dioscorea Villosa (Wild Yam) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dioscorea Villosa (Wild Yam) Root ExtractA soothing extract derived from wild yam roots. Its anti-inflammatory compounds are claimed to act similar to corticoid hormones in the treatment of damaged skin.
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.

Glyceryl Polyacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl PolyacrylateA synthetic thickening polymer that can be used in a variety of product types. This polymer can feel lightweight but can also stand up to heavier ingredients in products like body butters.
Algin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlginA plant-based ingredient that can form gels when added to water, so it can thicken water-based products. Algin serves as a binding agent, where it helps hold the other ingredients in the product together and prevents them from separating.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn 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.
Swertia Chirata Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Swertia Chirata ExtractAn extract from Swertia chirata, a popular medicinal herb. The plant is a source of various skin healing compounds and has been shown to have the ability to increase skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of vertical wrinkles.
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.
Pullulan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pullulan
Disodium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium PhosphateAn inorganic ingredient primarily used in skincare products as a pH adjuster.
Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium PhosphateA salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
PEG-75 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-75 Stearate
Ceteth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceteth-20A very mild but effective polyethylene-based cleanser and emulsifier.
Steareth-20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Steareth-20A white to light brown reaction product of a clear gas and stearyl alcohol. Like the other steareth ingredients, steareth-20 is a waxy emulsifier that can help to form a stable emulsion, even in extreme conditions.
Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl HydroxyethylcelluloseA naturally-derived polymer that helps products feel buttery and bouncy and can reduce stringiness in a formula.
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.
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.
Picolinamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Picolinamide
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.
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.

Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP CopolymerA polymeric ingredient that creates lightweight and refreshing gel textures. It also works as a viscosity controlling agent.
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 4 (CI 14700)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Red 4 (CI 14700)A synthetic dye that is also known as FD&C Red No. 4. This colorant produces a warm red hue that has an orange or yellow undertone.
Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alpha-Isomethyl IononeA fragrance ingredient that is supplied as a pale, yellow liquid. The scent it emits is very clean and features notes of violet and orris. Alpha-isomethyl is also used as a flavoring agent in lip care products and even in some foods and drinks.
Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.

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.