Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream Review

Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream
7.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.1 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Review

Does Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream has to offer:
 
  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.0 out of 10.

Key Benefits of Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream:
 

Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 7.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈9.0%) and Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 4.1 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Squalane (est. ≈4.0%) and Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate (est. ≈2.5%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want maximum hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

This product may also be a good choice for people with normal to dry skin for daily hydration, as it balances significant moisturizing potential with a balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing 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: Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream to your skincare routine:
 

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, an ingredient often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of Pueraria Lobata Root Extract provide insufficient evidence of its efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically exclude the possibility that Pueraria Lobata Root Extract may reduce wrinkles, its efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were accessible to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, this ingredient does not generate 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.

Pros & Cons of Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Intensive Moisturizing Cream to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Perfect for moisturizing normal skin
  • Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy

Cons: 

  • Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
55
9
6
4
3
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
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
0.15
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate
Function:
Origin:
Dicaprylyl Ether
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose Polystearate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
PCA Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Palmitic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylate
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Honey
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polygonatum Officinale Rhizome/Root Powder
Function:
Origin:
Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Pinus Koraiensis Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Dextrin
Function:
Origin:
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Myristic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Arachidic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract
Function:
Origin:
Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) Rhizome/Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Carnosic Acid
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
17.5
9
6
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
8.3
4.0
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 17.5 10
10.0
9
6
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 8.3 20
4.1
4.0
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
9
6
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 17.5 10
10
All humectants
17.5
9
6
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 8.3 20
4.1
All occlusives
8.3
4.0
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 2.7 3 No
All antioxidants
2.7
Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
0.3
Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract
0.3
Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract
0.3
Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
0.3
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract
0.3
Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
0.3
Carnosic Acid
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.5 5 No
All soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %55
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.
Glycerin
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Propanediol
Est. %6
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.
Squalane
Est. %4
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.
Methyl Trimethicone
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Methyl TrimethiconeA lightweight and volatile silicone known for its excellent solvency. This silicone has a silky, cushiony feel with excellent lubricity and is commonly used as an emollient in silicone-based skincare products.
Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Pentaerythrityl TetraethylhexanoateAn occlusive moisturizer and emollient with a good lubricity that leaves behind a glossy sheen after application. It can also control viscosity by thickening skincare products and act as a binding agent to hold pressed powdered products together.
Dicaprylyl Ether
Est. %2
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.
Sucrose Polystearate
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Sucrose Polystearate
Butylene Glycol
Est. %1.3
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.

PCA Dimethicone
Est. %1
Function
Origin
PCA Dimethicone
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.
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Stearate CitrateAn ingredient composed of citric acid, stearic acid, and glycerin. Glyceryl stearate citrate acts as an emollient in skincare products, making the skin appear smooth and pleasant to the touch.
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.
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Palmitic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitic AcidA saturated fatty acid used in skincare as a strongly occlusive moisturizer and barrier repairing, emollient ingredient. It is a waxy-looking, white solid. Palmitic acid can be commonly found in animal and vegetable fats, notably palm oil.
Cetearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetearyl AlcoholA blend of cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, the fatty alcohols that are derived from palm oil. It helps to create emulsions that give off a soft and silky emollient feel and also increase product thickness.
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated PolyisobuteneA viscous liquid that makes a great oil base due to its smooth sensorial profile. It has emollient features, including good spreadability and little tack upon application. It also has the added benefit of being able to thicken products.
2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylate
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.
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.
Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates CopolymerA highly functional synthetic ingredient that forms a protective layer on the skin and reduces static buildup. It gives an emollient feel to the product, including a silky after-feel.
Honey
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Honey

A supersaturated solution of sugars, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. It is used in skincare for its antimicrobial, emollient, moisturizing, and soothing properties.

Glyceryl Caprylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl CaprylateA waxy solid derived from vegetable oils that has emollient and emulsifying properties. It is also known to boost the efficacy of organic acid preservatives by destabilizing the microbe's cell membrane.
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.

Tromethamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TromethamineAn ingredient based on amino acids that is commonly used as a pH adjuster. It has a high pH, which means that it is basic (alkaline), so adding tromethamine to a skincare product will increase its overall pH level.
Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Nelumbo Nucifera Flower ExtractAn extract with antioxidant flavonoids that is obtained from the flowers of the water lily.
Polygonatum Officinale Rhizome/Root Powder
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polygonatum Officinale Rhizome/Root Powder
Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rehmannia Glutinosa Root ExtractAn extract derived from the roots of a traditional Chinese herb with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory iridoids, triterpenoids, phenyletanoids, and phenolic acids.
Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Paeonia Albiflora Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of the garden peony. It mainly contains humectant moisturizing oligosaccharides and polysaccharides, and has been claimed to improve skin tone.
Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lilium Candidum Bulb ExtractAn extract coming from Madonna lily bulbs that is rich in humectant polysaccharides and anti-inflammatory saponins.
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.
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.
Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lycium Chinense Fruit ExtractDerived from Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, this extract is packed with potent antioxidant polysaccharides, vitamins B and C, carotenoids (mainly zeaxanthin), flavonoids, and phytosterols.
Sorbitan Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan IsostearateA mild yet powerful emulsifier primarily utilized to produce water-in-oil emulsions. It helps to create a particularly rich and substantial emulsion.
Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pueraria Lobata Root ExtractAn extract from the roots of Kudzu, a trailing vine native to several Asian countries. It contains a combination of isoflavones and polysaccharides which have been shown to increase the production of collagen and HA in aging skin.
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.
Pinus Koraiensis Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pinus Koraiensis Seed Oil
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.
Dextrin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DextrinA partially hydrolyzed potato starch, most commonly used as a viscosity controlling and binding agent. When dispersed into water, it can create textures ranging from a thick paste to a soft gel.
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract

An extract from cocoa beans or cocoa powder with lots of beneficial compounds such as stimulant caffeine, antioxidant and astringent flavanols, and tannins – which are responsible for its bitter taste.

Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Humulus Lupulus (Hops) ExtractAn extract from hops flowers. Hops have been used traditionally to treat skin inflammation. The extract is rich in antioxidants and has antifungal and antimicrobial activity.
Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Myristic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristic AcidA common fatty acid found in various vegetable oils, most notably palm and coconut oil. It is a strongly occlusive moisturizing, emollient, and emulsifying ingredient.
Arachidic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidic Acid
Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Citral
Est. %0.15
Function
Origin
Citral

A fragrant compound found in many essential oils (especially lemon myrtle and lemongrass essential oil). It has a sweet, lemon-like scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citral, or at least do a patch test before using.

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.

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.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Est. %0.3
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.
Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract
Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) Rhizome/Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) Rhizome/Root Extract
Carnosic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Carnosic Acid