Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum Review

Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum
4.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
6.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
2.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
4.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Review

Does Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.
  • Considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy: Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10, indicating a moderate ability to reduce wrinkles.

Key Benefits of Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum:
 

Lightweight Moisturizer Well-Suited for Combination and Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 2.3 out of 10 and a high humectancy of 6.4 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with combination and oily skin who want significant hydration in a relatively lightweight, non-greasy formula. It combines a substantial amount of humectants with a limited amount of occlusive to enhance moisturizing efficacy without feeling too heavy.

This product may also be an option for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures, as it balances significant moisturizing potential with a relatively lightweight texture.

A Humectant Enhancement for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to combination and oily skin - such a humectant enhancement 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.

Considerable Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum has a moderate anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10.

It contains 4 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • 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).
  • Glycolic Acid (est. ≈6.0%),
     a highly effective ingredient in peelings but with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy in leave-on skincare products, as supported by a single clinical study. This study, involving 72 participants (Thibault et al.), demonstrated that a lotion with 5% GA reduced the fine wrinkling score by 6% after 34 days of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without GA).
  • Niacinamide (est. ≈0.3%),
     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).
  • Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
     or Vitamin C, a popular ingredient, yet with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 20 participants (Humbert et al.). This study showed that a cream with a relatively high concentration of 5% ascorbic acid reduced the average wrinkle depth by 7% after 6 months of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ascorbic acid).
Among others, Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum also contains Adenosine, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Adenosine provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, this ingredient does not contribute to 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.

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: Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum to your skincare routine:
 

May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol and Glycolic Acid

This product contains both retinol and glycolic acid, two potent skincare ingredients with complementary benefits. Retinol offers powerful anti-wrinkle properties by boosting cell turnover, while glycolic acid, a popular AHA, exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells. Together, they reveal new, more delicate skin that is brighter and smoother but also more vulnerable to sun damage.

Using products with both retinol and glycolic acid may increase the skin’s sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect your skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily throughout the use of these ingredients and avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be applied 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 products containing retinol and glycolic acid, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Resurfacing Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing well-suited for combination and oily skin
  • Also an option for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures
  • As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
  • Lightweight texture
  • Provides considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to ingredients like Retinol and Glycolic Acid, among others

Cons: 

  • May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol and glycolic acid

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
70
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycolic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Olivate
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-2 Distearate
Function:
Origin:
C9-12 Alkane
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Zea Mays (Corn) Starch
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Collagen
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Volcanic Soil
Function:
Origin:
Pullulan
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Phytate
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Amylopectin
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Sclerotium Gum
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Lysolecithin
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
6.4
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
4.7
2.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 6.4 10
6.4
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 4.7 20
2.3
2.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 6.4 10
6.4
All humectants
6.4
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
2
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 4.7 20
2.3
All occlusives
4.7
2.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
1.5 /10 5 6 1.5
6 /10 4 0.3 0.4
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
4.5
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Glycolic Acid
1.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
1.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
6
Niacinamide
0.4
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
4.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.2 3 No
All antioxidants
1.2
Niacinamide
0.3
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.9 5 No
All soothing
0.9
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %70
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.
Glycolic Acid
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Glycolic Acid

The second most used AHA (after lactic acid) known for its potent exfoliating and smoothing effects. It increases skin cell turnover, which is beneficial for treating acne. When used in peels, glycolic acid has confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy, though it is less effective in leave-on products like creams and serums.

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.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %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.

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Ethylhexyl Olivate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Olivate
Polyglyceryl-2 Distearate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-2 Distearate
C9-12 Alkane
Est. %1
Function
Origin
C9-12 Alkane
Arachidyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl AlcoholA non-drying fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and viscosity controlling agent. It also produces a mattifying effect when applied in a skincare product onto the skin.
Zea Mays (Corn) Starch
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zea Mays (Corn) StarchA white, very finely powdered starch extracted from corn. It works as an anti-caking and absorbent ingredient in powdered products, as well as as a thickening agent in liquids. It also helps to create a matte finish after application.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %0.3
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.
Niacinamide
Est. %0.3
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.

Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

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.

Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adansonia Digitata Seed OilAn excellent occlusive (moisturizing) and emollient oil derived from baobab tree seeds. It is known to be a non-irritating ingredient on the skin.
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed OilAn oil cold-pressed from pumpkin seeds. It mainly contains emollient and occlusive fatty acids and phytosterols, as well as unusually high levels of antioxidant vitamin E and carotenoids.
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.

Collagen
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CollagenA protein that builds all human tissues, especially skin and joints. It is used as a moisturizing humectant ingredient in skincare.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Squalane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn 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.
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.
Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid

Also known as vitamin C, this multi-benefit ingredient has proven anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and anti-pigmentation efficacy. It degrades easily when exposed to air and light, so it requires proper packaging to maintain its stability.

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.
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.
Ceramide NP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ceramide NPAlso known as ceramide 3, it is the most common ceramide in our skin. It helps to restore the skin’s lipid barrier and alleviate the symptoms of dry and cracked skin. Research has shown that skin suffering from conditions such as AD lacks ceramides.
Volcanic Soil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Volcanic Soil
Pullulan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pullulan
Sodium Phytate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PhytateSodium 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.
Arachidyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl GlucosideA mild cleanser and emulsifier that helps oil and water to mix and form emulsions.
Amylopectin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Amylopectin
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
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.

Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment FiltrateA biotechnological fermentation ingredient that is created by feeding radish root to Leuconostoc kimchii. It allegedly contains organic acids and a mixture of peptides known as bacteriocins – which have antimicrobial activity.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA 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.
Sclerotium Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclerotium GumA thickener with a silky, velvety feel that many manufacturers use as an alternative to silicones.
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA naturally-derived emollient ester. It is a blend of caprylates and caprates and, relative to other emollients, is lightweight and dry on the skin. As a result, coco-caprylate/caprate serves as a natural alternative to volatile silicones.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
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.
Lysolecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LysolecithinLysolecithin is a special derivative of lecithin with improved emulsifying and dispersion properties in aqueous media. This leads to a higher water-binding capacity and better skin feeling. It is usually manufactured from soy lecithin and used as an emulsifying agent.
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.

Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium PhosphateA salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
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.
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.
Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AlcoholAn effective antimicrobial ingredient that kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. It is also an excellent solvent and astringent. Alcohol helps to create lighter and less viscous products. It can, however, be dehydrating and skin-sensitizing.
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.
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.