PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner Review

PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Sucrose, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin), Propylene Glycol, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Octoxynol-9, Fragrance, Gluconic Acid, Yeast, Aminoguanidine HCl, Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil, Glutathione, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Alcohol Denat., Zinc Salicylate, Aspergillus/Molasses Ferment Filtrate, Glycerin, Potassium Chloride, Benzyl Benzoate, Eugenol, Coumarin, Cinnamal, Isoeugenol, Cinnamyl Alcohol
Review

Does PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner has to offer:
 
✅ Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.
✅ Soothing: PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.

  

Key Benefits of PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner:
 

🔵 Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? It is purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Sucrose (est. ≈6.0%), Propylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%) and Lactic Acid (est. ≈2.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, providing significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula without any occlusive ingredients.

📌 Certain studies suggest that humectants alone may not effectively moisturize the skin. If you use this product as your only moisturizer, we recommend following it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients.

💧 A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

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

🔴 Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Sucrose (est. ≈6.0%).

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: PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ If It’s an Exfoliator, It May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Lactic Acid

This product contains lactic acid, a popular AHA known for its ability to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells, revealing new, more delicate skin that is more vulnerable to sun damage.

In smaller quantities, lactic acid is often used as a pH adjuster and may not significantly contribute to exfoliation. However, at higher concentrations, it functions as an effective exfoliant with benefits and risks similar to other AHAs. Products with AHAs, including lactic acid, may increase skin sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

If this product is designed for exfoliation, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential to protect your skin. Always check the label or the manufacturer’s website for specific usage instructions.

⚠️ If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It Needs to Be Paired with Some Occlusives

While humectants are highly effective at attracting water to the skin, studies (J. N. Kraft, C. W. Lynde) suggest they may not be efficient when used alone.

One major drawback of purely humectant moisturization is that the water attracted by humectants to the upper layers of the skin can evaporate completely into the environment through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Adding occlusive ingredients helps seal this moisture into the skin and prevent further water loss.

If you’re using PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner as your only moisturizer, consider pairing it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones. These work alongside humectants to create a protective barrier, locking in hydration and ensuring longer-lasting moisturization. The amount of occlusive needed depends on your skin type - the drier the skin, the more occlusives it requires.

If this product is used not as a standalone moisturizer but as part of your skincare routine, such as a toner or serum, it should be applied before your main moisturizer (unless it's a sunscreen), which will provide the necessary occlusivity on top of it.

Pros & Cons of PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing Sucrose
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - it needs to be paired with occlusives to seal in humectants
   

Summary: PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, making it ideal for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.
 
With a high concentration of soothing ingredients, PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner has 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 PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner worth noting.
 
Looking at its moisturizing profile, we found that it doesn’t contain any occlusive ingredients, potentially allowing the moisture attracted to the skin by humectants to evaporate. Therefore, if it’s used as the only moisturizer in a routine, it’s recommended to pair it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones.
 
📌 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
75
6
4
3
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
0.06
0.03
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose
Function:
Origin:
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin)
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Lactic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Octoxynol-9
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Gluconic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Yeast
Function:
Origin:
Aminoguanidine HCl
Function:
Origin:
Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Glutathione
Function:
Origin:
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Aspergillus/Molasses Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Eugenol
Function:
Origin:
Coumarin
Function:
Origin:
Cinnamal
Function:
Origin:
Isoeugenol
Function:
Origin:
Cinnamyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.3
6
3
2
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.3 10
10.0
6
3
2
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
3
2
0.3
All humectants 11.3 10
10
All humectants
11.3
6
3
2
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
None
All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
All antioxidants 0.3 3 No
All antioxidants
0.3
Glutathione
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
6
All soothing 6 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
6
6
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
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.
Sucrose
Est. %6
Function
Origin
SucroseThis ingredient is more commonly known as table sugar or saccharose and is derived from sugar beets or sugar cane. It is used as a humectant moisturizing ingredient in skincare products, as well as a sweetener.
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin)
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin)
Propylene Glycol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Lactic Acid
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Lactic AcidThe most popular AHA in skincare and less irritating than glycolic acid. It can be naturally found in sour milk. It is a humectant moisturizing, pH stabilizing, and gently exfoliating ingredient, able to soften dry, cracked, and peeling skin.
Citric Acid
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Octoxynol-9
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Octoxynol-9
Fragrance
Est. %1
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.
Gluconic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Gluconic Acid
Yeast
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Yeast
Aminoguanidine HCl
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aminoguanidine HCl
Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil
Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf OilA fragrant essential oil distilled from the flower buds of cloves (a culinary spice). It contains an essential oil which is mainly comprised of eugenol – a compound with a sweet, gingerbread-like scent.
Glutathione
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlutathioneA naturally occurring tripeptide that combats free radicals and acts as a reducing agent.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root OilA fragrant and flavoring essential oil distilled from ginger root. Phytochemicals such as zingerone, shogaols, and gingerols are responsible for its warm, spicy, and invigorating scent.
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Zinc Salicylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc Salicylate
Aspergillus/Molasses Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aspergillus/Molasses Ferment Filtrate
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Potassium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium ChlorideA salt of hydrochloric acid that stabilizes emulsions through thickening.
Benzyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl BenzoateA fragrance ingredient with a fruity and woody scent. It is considered an allergen according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), which means that care must be taken when determining usage levels in skincare products.
Eugenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Eugenol

A fragrant liquid that can be found naturally in the essential oils derived from cloves, cinnamon, basil, and bay leaf. It has a spicy and warm scent. People with sensitive skin should consider doing a patch test first, as it is a potential irritant.

Coumarin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coumarin

A plant-based fragrant compound that occurs in sweet-smelling grass, sweet woodruff, and sweet clover. It has a sweet and vanilla-like scent in high concentrations and a similar scent to freshly mowed grass in low concentrations.

Cinnamal
Est. %0.06
Function
Origin
Cinnamal
Isoeugenol
Est. %0.03
Function
Origin
Isoeugenol

A fragrant compound found in ylang-ylang essential oil that has a vanilla-like, creamy, and sweet aroma.

Cinnamyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cinnamyl Alcohol

A naturally-found or synthetically produced component of fragrances. It smells sweet, spicy, and cinnamon-like. It is a known fragrance allergen, but not expected to be irritating when used below recommended limits.