PCA SKIN HydraLuxe

PCA SKIN HydraLuxe
7.9
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
$$$$

Review

Results you may expect from using PCA SKIN HydraLuxe:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using PCA SKIN HydraLuxe:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.9 out of 10.
  • Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10, PCA SKIN HydraLuxe is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: PCA SKIN HydraLuxe contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

How moisturizing is it?

Highly moisturizing: PCA SKIN HydraLuxe has a moisturizing rating of 7.9 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 Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈2.5%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.8 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈4.9%) and Dimethicone (est. ≈3.0%).

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

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, PCA SKIN HydraLuxe has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10. It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%),
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients.
 
Among others, PCA SKIN HydraLuxe also contains contains Acetyl Glucosamine and Retinyl Palmitate, two ingredients 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.

Antioxidant benefits

We estimate that PCA SKIN HydraLuxe is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%).

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

Based on the ingredient list analysis, PCA SKIN HydraLuxe is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. ≈5.0%).

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
65
5
4.9
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
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Ratings

All humectants
11.0
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
11.6
4.9
3.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.0 10
10.0
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 11.6 20
5.8
4.9
3.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.0 10
10
All humectants
11.0
5
2.5
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
4.9
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 11.6 20
5.8
All occlusives
11.6
4.9
3.0
1.3
0.3
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 5 6
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
6
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
5
Acetyl Glucosamine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Retinyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
6
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
Tocopherol
0.3
Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract
0.3
Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
5
All soothing 5 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5
5
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
Function
Origin
The 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.
Niacinamide
Est. %5
Function
Origin

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.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %4.9
Function
Origin
A 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.
Cetearyl Isononanoate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
A naturally-derived (coconut or palm oil based) oil with medium richness. It makes skin feel soft and smooth.
Dimethicone
Est. %3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Glycerin
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin

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

Pentylene Glycol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
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.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
A version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Maltodextrin
Est. %1
Function
Origin
A formula helper manufactured from starch. It has a sweet flavor and is often used in rinse-off products to support their foaming structure. Maltodextrin is also used to stabilize emulsions and to absorb and bind other ingredients in the formula.
Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Palmitic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A multi-functional ingredient that forms a polymeric network, thereby thickening the formula and preventing other ingredients from shifting around.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
C20-40 Alkyl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Under 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.
Behenyl Behenate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
Tribehenin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A soft, pliable wax that serves as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It improves the spreadability of skincare products, including the increased payoff of stick products, and imparts a pleasant, smooth feel upon application.
Cetyl Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Isostearyl Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic ingredient that softens the appearance of skin and can suspend small particles.
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A powerful emulsifier that can even mix particularly problematic water and oil blends. It is also a surfactant perfect for cleansing products that effectively rinse off oil and dirt particles from the surface of the skin.
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.
Betaine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract from the roots of the garden peony. It mainly contains humectant moisturizing oligosaccharides and polysaccharides, and has been claimed to improve skin tone.
Cichorium Intybus (Chicory) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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 Phytate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium phytate is a chelating agent that serves to remove heavy metal ions from water. Removing metal ions helps other ingredients, such as antioxidants and preservatives, to perform better and keep products from separating.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fungi extract. The mushroom contains various proteins, fiber, and humectant and antioxidant polysaccharides - which help to restore the water and collagen content in the skin.
Acetyl Glucosamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A body-natural amino-saccharide used in skincare as an anti-pigment ingredient. Some other benefits of acetyl glucosamine include decreased skin flakiness, improved wound healing, and even a slight reduction in facial wrinkles.
Retinyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An esterified form of retinol – it combines retinol and palmitic acid into one molecule. Retinyl palmitate is less irritating than retinol but also much less effective in its anti-aging and acne-reducing effects.
Coenochloris Signiensis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract obtained from Goji berries with moisturizing and antioxidant polysaccharides and glycoproteins. It is also rich in other antioxidants such as vitamins B and C, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phytosterols.