SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 Review

SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0
3.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
2.9 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
5.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Ingredients

SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, Polyacrylate-13, Squalane, Retinol, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8, Dunaliella Salina Extract, Magnolia Grandiflora Bark Extract, Tocopherol, Tocotrienols, Ceramide NP, Bisabolol, Phytosterols, Squalene, Tocopheryl Acetate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax, Glycerin, Polysorbate 20, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Palmitate, Laureth-23, Trideceth-6 Phosphate, Sodium Hydroxide, Dicaprylyl Ether, Lauryl Alcohol, Polyisobutene, Dextran, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
Review

Does SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.8 out of 10.
✅ Considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy: SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 has an anti-wrinkle rating of 5.5 out of 10, indicating a moderate ability to reduce wrinkles.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0:
 

🔵🔵 Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Normal Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather occlusive. It has a low humectancy of 2.9 out of 10 and a moderate occlusivity of 4.8 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil (est. ≈4.0%) and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, may provide some occlusive moisturizing that is adequate for normal skin.

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

🟣🟣 Considerable Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 has a moderate anti-wrinkle rating of 5.5 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

1️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈2.0%),
 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).
 
2️⃣ 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).
 
📌 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 additional 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 SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil (est. ≈4.0%) and Niacinamide (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 model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol

This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with retinol may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used 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 the retinol-containing products, either on their website or product label.

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 contains a relatively low level of humectants.

People with normal skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Provides the right level of occlusivity to moisturize normal skin
Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
Provides considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Niacinamide and Retinol
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
   

Summary: SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0
 is specifically effective in treating wrinkles, containing ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy.
 

As a moisturizer, it provides the right level of occlusivity to hydrate normal skin, with a balanced texture that’s neither too light nor too heavy.

With its high antioxidant content, SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation.
 
That said, there are some things about SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 worth noting.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains only a small amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 1.0 with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
This product contains retinol, the most powerful and well-researched non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. However, retinol can make your skin more prone to sun damage and increase sensitivity, so it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment.
 
📌 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
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylate-13
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8
Function:
Origin:
Dunaliella Salina Extract
Function:
Origin:
Magnolia Grandiflora Bark Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Tocotrienols
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Phytosterols
Function:
Origin:
Squalene
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Laureth-23
Function:
Origin:
Trideceth-6 Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Dicaprylyl Ether
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Dextran
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
2.9
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
9.5
4.0
3.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 2.9 10
2.9
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 9.5 20
4.8
4.0
3.0
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 2.9 10
2.9
All humectants
2.9
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
4
3
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 9.5 20
4.8
All occlusives
9.5
4.0
3.0
1.3
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 2 3
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
Total
5.5
Niacinamide
3
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Anti-wrinkle rating
5.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 7.8 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
7.8
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
4
Niacinamide
2
Dunaliella Salina Extract
0.3
Magnolia Grandiflora Bark Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Phytosterols
0.3
Squalene
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
2
0.3
All soothing 2.3 5 No
All soothing
2.3
2
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.
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Cetyl EthylhexanoateA clear, pale yellow liquid, that functions as an emollient and a solvent, meaning that it is useful for dissolving oil-soluble ingredients.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilAn occlusive moisturizing oil expressed from soybeans. It does not leave an oily feeling on the skin due to its low content of saturated fatty acids. Glycine soja oil contains emollient fatty acids and a significant amount of antioxidants.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA 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.
Niacinamide
Est. %2
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.

Polyacrylate-13
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Polyacrylate-13A synthetic, film-forming ingredient that creates a network around other ingredients in the formula and protects them from being easily washed away.
Squalane
Est. %1.3
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.
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.

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8

Description is coming soon

Dunaliella Salina Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dunaliella Salina ExtractDerived from a species of bright red algae, this extract contains the potent antioxidant beta-carotene, as well as a humectant moisturizing glycerol.
Magnolia Grandiflora Bark Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnolia Grandiflora Bark Extract
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.

Tocotrienols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocotrienols
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.
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.

Phytosterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhytosterolsA plant-based version of cholesterol that is used for its emollient properties in skincare. The richest sources of phytosterols are corn, rapeseed, and wheat germ oil.
Squalene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SqualeneOne of the main ingredients in the skin’s sebum. It helps to rebuild the natural oily film on the skin’s surface and to prevent transdermal water loss. Squalene is listed among common comedogenic ingredients by acne.org.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran WaxA solid, strongly emollient, and occlusive moisturizing wax obtained from rice bran oil. It is also used as a formula helper.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

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.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
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.

Cetyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl PalmitateA moisturizing occlusive and emollient wax ester that consists of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid. In nature, cetyl palmitate is found, and was first identified, in spermaceti, a waxy substance from inside the skull of the sperm whale.
Laureth-23
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laureth-23Laureth-23 is a strong emulsifier that is perfect for bringing oils into water-based products. It can be used to mix fragrance or to add to shampoos. It plays nicely with other emulsifiers and ingredients, and can show synergy when used with other emulsifiers of the same type like Laureth-7.
Trideceth-6 Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trideceth-6 Phosphate
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.

Dicaprylyl Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dicaprylyl EtherA fast-spreading and very lightweight emollient. It is used to reduce the tack and oiliness of oil-based formulas and gives the skin a dry, silky after-feel. It is also a great solvent.
Lauryl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lauryl Alcohol
Polyisobutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyisobuteneA highly viscous liquid that is used in lip gloss formulations to prolong wear time and add shimmer. Polyisobutene dramatically increases the thickness of skincare products it is added to.
Dextran
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DextranA naturally derived sucrose metabolite that thickens water and bulks emulsions.
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.
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.
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.
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.