Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum Review

Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
1.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum 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.
  • Slight anti-wrinkle effect: Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 1.5 out of 10, so you may expect a positive, although insignificant, effect on wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Key Benefits of Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum:
 

Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum 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 Sodium PCA (est. ≈6.0%) and Sodium Hyaluronate (est. ≈2.5%).

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.

Slight Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 1.5 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈1.0%), 
 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).
 
Among others, Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum also contains Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 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.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (est. ≈4.0%), Sodium Hyaluronate (est. ≈2.5%) and Ferulic Acid (est. ≈2.0%).

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: Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum 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 Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum 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 Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Skin Actives Scientific Antioxidant Serum 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 slight anti-wrinkle efficacy
  • 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
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Sodium PCA
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Ferulic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Catechins
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Carnosine
Function:
Origin:
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
Function:
Origin:
Carnitine
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane
Function:
Origin:
Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lycopene
Function:
Origin:
Astaxanthin
Function:
Origin:
Fucoxanthin
Function:
Origin:
Porphyridium Polysaccharide
Function:
Origin:
Glutathione
Function:
Origin:
sh-Polypeptide-2
Function:
Origin:
sh-Polypeptide-77
Function:
Origin:
Superoxide Dismutase
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Diazolidinyl Urea
Function:
Origin:
Methylparaben
Function:
Origin:
Propylparaben
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.6
6
2.5
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.6 10
10.0
6
2.5
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
2.5
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.6 10
10
All humectants
11.6
6
2.5
1.5
1
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 1 1.5
n/a
- 4 -
Total
1.5
Niacinamide
1.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
4
Anti-wrinkle rating
1.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
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
All antioxidants 15.3 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
15.3
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
4
Sodium Hyaluronate
2.5
Ferulic Acid
2
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
1.5
Camellia Sinensis Catechins
1.3
Niacinamide
1
Carnosine
0.3
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
0.3
Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane
0.3
Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane
0.3
Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane
0.3
Lycopene
0.3
Astaxanthin
0.3
Porphyridium Polysaccharide
0.3
Glutathione
0.3
Superoxide Dismutase
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.4 5 No
All soothing
3.4
1.5
1
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.
Sodium PCA
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Sodium PCAOne of the most important parts of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, a mixture of various compounds that keeps the skin’s surface well hydrated. Sodium PCA is used in skincare for its fantastic humectant properties.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Magnesium Ascorbyl PhosphateOne of the best-researched derivatives of vitamin C. It is more resistant to light and air and retains all the properties of ascorbic acid – antioxidant, collagen-boosting, and anti-pigmentation, but with less irritation.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %2.5
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.

Ferulic Acid
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Ferulic AcidA plant-based phenolic acid with powerful and scientifically proven antioxidant properties. It enhances the effects of vitamins C and E, as well as the UV protective effects of sunscreens.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf ExtractDerived from Aloe vera leaves, this moisturizing humectant, soothing, and antioxidant extract is commonly used in products targeting eczema, sunburn, or dermatitis. It soothes the skin and reduces the signs of inflammation and sensitivity.
Camellia Sinensis Catechins
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Catechins
Niacinamide
Est. %1
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.

Carnosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarnosineA skin-identical dipeptide that acts as a powerful antioxidant. It protects our skin from harmful glycation and can enhance the activity of other active ingredients in the skincare product.
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hesperidin Methyl ChalconeAn antioxidant and soothing flavonoid compound that is found in abundance in citrus fruit peels. It has been chemically modified for better absorption.
Carnitine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carnitine
Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TetrahydrodiferuloylmethaneAn antioxidant turmeric derivative.
Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane
Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane
Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract
Lycopene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lycopene
Astaxanthin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AstaxanthinA red natural pigment from the family of antioxidant carotenoids that occurs in many natural sources such as lobster and algae. It is mainly used as a colorant and soothing ingredient.
Fucoxanthin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Fucoxanthin
Porphyridium Polysaccharide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Porphyridium Polysaccharide
Glutathione
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlutathioneA naturally occurring tripeptide that combats free radicals and acts as a reducing agent.
sh-Polypeptide-2
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
sh-Polypeptide-2
sh-Polypeptide-77
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
sh-Polypeptide-77
Superoxide Dismutase
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Superoxide Dismutase
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
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.
Propylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
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.
Diazolidinyl Urea
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diazolidinyl UreaA synthetic preservative that is effective against most common bacteria. It is not considered broad-spectrum because it does not act against any type of yeast or mold. It is therefore commonly paired with antifungal preservatives.
Methylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethylparabenA preservative that keeps a product unspoiled. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, although the concentrations found in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe.
Propylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PropylparabenA preservative that keeps a product unspoiled. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, although the concentrations found in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe.