Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion Review

Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion
7.7
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.4 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Review

Does Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.7 out of 10.

Key Benefits of Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion:
 

Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 7.7 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 Gluconolactone (est. ≈6.0%) and Lactobionic Acid (est. ≈4.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.4 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈9.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want maximum hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

This product may also be a good choice for people with normal to dry skin for daily hydration, as it balances significant moisturizing potential with a balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy.

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

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.

Things to Be Aware Of: Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Gluconolactone, Lactobionic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, and Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. 

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were accessible to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

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.

Pros & Cons of Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Obagi IDR Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Perfect for moisturizing normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy

Cons: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Gluconolactone
Function:
Origin:
Lactobionic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-11
Function:
Origin:
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-8
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
14.3
6
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
10.8
9.0
1.5
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 14.3 10
10.0
6
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 10.8 20
5.4
9.0
1.5
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 14.3 10
10
All humectants
14.3
6
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
1.5
0.3
All occlusives 10.8 20
5.4
All occlusives
10.8
9.0
1.5
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 6 -
n/a
- 4 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Gluconolactone
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
6
Lactobionic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
4
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
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
All antioxidants 1.8 3 No
All antioxidants
1.8
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract
0.3
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.8 5 No
All soothing
1.8
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
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.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %9
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.
Gluconolactone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
GluconolactoneA PHA derived from glucose. It has exfoliating and humectant properties and acts as a penetration enhancer for other ingredients. It has also been shown to assist in the treatment of acne and the prevention of photoaging.
Lactobionic Acid
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Lactobionic AcidA very gentle and non-irritating PHA derived from lactic acid. It has exfoliating and humectant properties and can improve skin elasticity.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %3
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.
Glycerin
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Methyl Glucose SesquistearateAn ultra gentle emulsifier that can be used in many products to blend oils and water together while providing a light film on the skin.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %1.5
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.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl PalmitateA 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.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
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.
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.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6A polymeric ingredient that works best in water-based formulas to create gel textures. It helps to stabilize emulsions and control viscosity.
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.

Mica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MicaA mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
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.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
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.
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.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.

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.

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.
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.
Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Oleifera Leaf ExtractAn emollient extract derived from the leaves of the Tea-oil Camellia, which is native to Southeast Asia. It contains astringent and wound-healing tannins that create a tightening feeling on the skin and can speed up the healing process of small cuts.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower ExtractDerived from German chamomile flowers, this extract is especially known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits. It contains two soothing compounds called chamazulene and bisabolol, as well as antioxidant flavonoids.
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.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %0.3
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.
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.

Myristoyl Pentapeptide-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-11
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-8
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristoyl Pentapeptide-8