Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner Review

Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
4.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening 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.
  • Considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy: Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner has an anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10, indicating a moderate ability to reduce wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner:
 

Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening 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 Butylene Glycol (est. ≈6.0%), Pentylene Glycol (est. ≈4.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%).

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.

Tip: 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.

Considerable Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner has a moderate anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%), 
 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).
 
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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈3.0%).

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.

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: Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner to your skincare routine:
 

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 Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening 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 Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening Toner

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Rodan + Fields Reverse Intensive Brightening 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
  • Provides considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Niacinamide
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage

Cons: 

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

Ingredients

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
0.3
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:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Bis-PEG-12 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Trideceth-9
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
PEG-5 Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Passiflora Edulis Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Phenylethyl Resorcinol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Bisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Trehalose
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Chlorphenesin
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
15.8
6
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 15.8 10
10.0
6
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 15.8 10
10
All humectants
15.8
6
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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
6 /10 4 3 4.5
Total
4.5
Niacinamide
4.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
3
Anti-wrinkle rating
4.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 5.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
5.4
Niacinamide
3
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract
0.3
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract
0.3
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
0.3
Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract
0.3
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract
0.3
Phenylethyl Resorcinol
0.3
Sodium Bisulfite
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 4.8 5 No
All soothing
4.8
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Pentylene Glycol
Est. %4
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.

Niacinamide
Est. %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.

Bis-PEG-12 Dimethicone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Bis-PEG-12 Dimethicone
Trideceth-9
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Trideceth-9
Glycerin
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Polysorbate 20
Est. %1
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.
PEG-5 Isononanoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-5 Isononanoate
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.

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateA licorice root derivative with powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing activities. It is often used as a flavoring agent in lip products.
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.
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.
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.

Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract

A fragrant extract from lemon peels that contains various antioxidant flavonoids, organic acids, and limonoids – which are currently under investigation as potential anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment compounds.

Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from pineapple fruits that contains various antioxidants, vitamin C, and bromelain - an enzyme mixture that acts as a mild exfoliant. Bromelain also has some anti-inflammatory activity and may help with the healing of wounds and scars.
Passiflora Edulis Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Passiflora Edulis Fruit Extract
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit ExtractAn extract obtained from the skin and pulp of grapes. Grape skin and pulp contain antioxidant and astringent flavonoids and tannins, famous resveratrol, and many different organic and phenolic acids.
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit ExtractA soothing extract obtained derived from the papaya fruit. It contains a skin softening and mildly exfoliating enzyme called papain, as well as various anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that can assist in the wound healing process.
Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit ExtractAn emollient extract from red watermelon fruit. Its pulp, seeds, and rinds are a source of beneficial compounds for the skin, and it has occlusive, emollient, and antioxidant properties.
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit ExtractAn extract derived from mango fruit that contains antioxidant flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanins, as well as many astringent tannins. It gives a formula a nice, fruity scent.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Phenylethyl Resorcinol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Phenylethyl ResorcinolA derivative of resorcinol whose anti-pigment activity is well-researched and backed by science. It is very light-sensitive and must be protected by packaging or careful formulation.
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.
Sodium Bisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BisulfiteAn inorganic salt that kills bacteria and protects against oxidation.
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.

Trehalose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TrehaloseA sweet-tasting saccharide that can be found in various yeasts and fungi and that is manufactured from starch for cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most popular sugars in skincare and is mainly used for its humectant properties.
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.
Chlorphenesin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
ChlorphenesinA preservative and broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that protects products from a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
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.
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.
Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.