Olay Body Lotion Retinol Review

Olay Body Lotion Retinol
8.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
7.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
8.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

Olay Body Lotion Retinol Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Petrolatum, Isopropyl Isostearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinol, Retinyl Propionate, Stearyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Tapioca Starch, Benzyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Fragrance, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dimethiconol, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Review

Does Olay Body Lotion Retinol Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Olay Body Lotion Retinol has to offer:
 
✅ Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 8.6 out of 10.
✅ Potent anti-wrinkle effect. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 8.5 out of 10, Olay Body Lotion Retinol is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
✅ Soothing: Olay Body Lotion Retinol contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Olay Body Lotion Retinol

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Olay Body Lotion Retinol:
 

🔵🔵 Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Olay Body Lotion Retinol is intensely moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 8.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈9.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%), and a high occlusivity of 7.3 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%) and Petrolatum (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want intense hydration in a rich yet not overly thick formula. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing.

The product’s occlusive profile suggests a texture that is rich and creamy but not overly thick, offering the potential to absorb into the skin without leaving a greasy afterfeel in most cases.

This product may also be a good choice for people with dry (but not very dry) skin for daily hydration, as it strikes a balance between significant moisturizing potential and a texture that is not too thick.

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

🟣🟣🟣 Potent Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Olay Body Lotion Retinol has a very high anti-wrinkle rating of 8.5 out of 10.

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

1️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%),
 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).
 
2️⃣ 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, Olay Body Lotion Retinol also contains Retinyl Propionate, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Retinyl Propionate provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that Retinyl Propionate may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
 
Therefore, this ingredient does 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 Olay Body Lotion Retinol is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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, Olay Body Lotion Retinol is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Olay Body Lotion Retinol

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Olay Body Lotion Retinol to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol

This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with retinol may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used at night, as it is sensitive to sunlight and can lose its potency when exposed to UV rays.

📌 Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the retinol-containing products, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of Olay Body Lotion Retinol

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

🟩 Pros:

✅ Perfect for moisturizing normal to dry skin
Rich and creamy texture without being overly thick
Delivers potent anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Niacinamide and Retinol
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, specifically Niacinamide
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol
   

Summary: Olay Body Lotion Retinol

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Olay Body Lotion Retinol
 is highly effective in treating wrinkles, featuring ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy, in concentrations that may deliver a significant anti-wrinkle effect. Its exceptional moisturizing properties further enhance its anti-wrinkle efficacy.
 

As a moisturizer, it is ideal for normal to dry skin, combining a very high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients in a rich yet not overly thick formula.

Rich in antioxidants, Olay Body Lotion Retinol helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation. This product is also formulated with a high concentration of soothing ingredients, offering the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
That said, there are some things about Olay Body Lotion Retinol worth noting.
 
This product contains retinol, the most powerful and well-researched non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. However, retinol can make your skin more prone to sun damage and increase sensitivity, so it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Petrolatum
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Retinyl Propionate
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Tapioca Starch
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Dimethiconol
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Palmitic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
14.8
9
4
1.5
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
14.6
6.0
3.0 x 2
2.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
8.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 14.8 10
10.0
9
4
1.5
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 14.6 20
7.3
6.0
3.0 x 2
2.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
8.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
9
4
1.5
0.3
All humectants 14.8 10
10
All humectants
14.8
9
4
1.5
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
3 x 2
2
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 14.6 20
7.3
All occlusives
14.6
6.0
3.0 x 2
2.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 4 6
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
8.5
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
4
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
Anti-wrinkle rating
8.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
1.3
All antioxidants 5.3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5.3
Niacinamide
4
Tocopheryl Acetate
1.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
4
1.5
All soothing 5.5 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.5
4
1.5
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.
Glycerin
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

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.
Niacinamide
Est. %4
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.

Petrolatum
Est. %3
Function
Origin
PetrolatumAlso known as Vaseline, this is the most powerful occlusive moisturizer and at least twice as effective as other occlusives. This is why we multiply the petrolatum score by 2 when calculating the Occlusivity of the product. Petrolatum is not comedogenic.
Isopropyl Isostearate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Isopropyl IsostearateA synthetic ester that offers superior spreadability.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %2
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.
Panthenol
Est. %1.5
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.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %1.3
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.

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.
Stearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
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.
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Acrylates CopolymerA synthetic polymer that can come in various forms and is often used to create light gel-like textures. Some versions can also create a light film on the skin.
Tapioca Starch
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tapioca StarchTapioca starch is used to absorb excess oil and provide slip for dry powder formulations.
Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Alcohol

A multifunctional ingredient that is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid. Its main function is as a flavoring agent and fragrance. It also acts as a broad-spectrum preservative, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent that thins the product.

Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol with emollient properties. It is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener and tends to result in a product with a smooth and creamy application texture.
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.
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 StearateThis surfactant is more specifically classified as an emulsifier that produces oil-in-water emulsions. PEG-100 stearate can also be used as a cleansing agent.
Cetearyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl GlucosideAn emulsifier that creates stable mixtures of oil in water that feel soft and spread easily. Cetearyl glucoside is sold with cetearyl alcohol as an emulsifier blend and also provides some body to the formula.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %0.3
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.