Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 25th Anniversary Limited Edition

Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 25th Anniversary Limited Edition
5.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants

Review

Does Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 25th Anniversary Limited Edition work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 25th Anniversary Limited Edition:

  • Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Lightweight moisturizer ideal for oily skin and a humectant boost for any skincare routine

According to CreamScan analysis, Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 25th Anniversary Limited Edition is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.1 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈4.0%) and Betaine (est. ≈3.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, offering significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients. It’s also a great choice for people with normal skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers.

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.

Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 25th Anniversary Limited Edition has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Adenosine and Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do 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.

Rich in skin-protecting antioxidants

We estimate that Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 25th Anniversary Limited Edition is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract (est. ≈0.3%), Madecassoside (est. ≈0.3%), and others.

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.

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
0.3
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Betaine
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Caprylate
Function:
Origin:
Juglans Regia (Walnut) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Dextrin
Function:
Origin:
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Methyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Cellulose Gum
Function:
Origin:
Carrageenan
Function:
Origin:
Honey
Function:
Origin:
Madecassoside
Function:
Origin:
Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polygonatum Odoratum Rhizome Extract
Function:
Origin:
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Natto Gum
Function:
Origin:
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Prunus Mume Fruit Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
BHT
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Lentinus Edodes Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract
Function:
Origin:
Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract
Function:
Origin:
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
11.8
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 11.8 10
10.0
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 11.8 10
10
All humectants
11.8
4
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 3.6 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
3.6
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract
0.3
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
0.3
Madecassoside
0.3
Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract
0.3
Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract
0.3
Lycium Chinense Fruit Extract
0.3
Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
0.3
Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
0.3
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract
0.3
BHT
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.7 5 No
All soothing
2.7
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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.
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %6
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.

Butylene Glycol
Est. %4
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.

Betaine
Est. %3
Function
Origin
BetaineAn ingredient derived from the sucrose in sugar beets. It has a negative chemical charge and a positive chemical charge on the same molecule. This allows betaine to be hygroscopic or humectant and thus provide moisturization by drawing water to the skin.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %2
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.
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl SilaneA silicone with the unusual trait of being able to disperse in water. It moisturizes the skin as a humectant and leaves a soft and smooth after-feel. This ingredient also has foam-boosting properties.
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl PolymethacrylateA synthetic polymer that is typically used as a viscosity modifier. Its benefits include a light after-feel on the skin and soft film, which is why it is frequently used in serums. It can form transparent gels and suspend some oils and particulates.
Carbomer
Est. %1
Function
Origin
CarbomerA synthetic ingredient with the ability to gel water. When used in emulsions, such as lotions and creams, carbomer can also act as an emulsion stabilizer.
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor OilA white paste-like substance derived from castor oil that belongs to a group of ingredients called PEGs (polyethylene glycols). It acts as a perfume solubilizer that helps fragrance agents dissolve in water and as a cleansing agent.
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.
Propanediol
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
Juglans Regia (Walnut) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Juglans Regia (Walnut) Seed Extract
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.

Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root ExtractA powerful antioxidant, soothing, and astringent extract derived from the roots of Baikal/Chinese skullcap. It contains various unique flavonoids that are believed to soothe irritated and inflamed skin and protect from UV-induced oxidative damage.
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.
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.
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.

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.

Methyl Trimethicone
Est. %0.3
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.
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.
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.
Cellulose Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cellulose GumA polymer that is derived from its namesake, cellulose, which is plant-based. It has many formula-helper benefits, including thickening and product stabilization.
Carrageenan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CarrageenanA gum-like thickener derived from a species of red algae called Irish moss. It helps to form a soft film on the skin, and aids in stabilizing product forms.
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.

Madecassoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MadecassosideAn isolated Gotu Kola compound. It helps to increase collagen and hyaluronic acid production in the skin and assists in wound healing.
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.
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.

Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ophiopogon Japonicus Root ExtractA moisturizing extract derived from the roots of the dwarf lilyturf, also known as mondo grass. It is rich in humectant polysaccharides and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Paeonia Lactiflora Root ExtractAn extract derived from the roots of the garden peony. It has been suggested that this ingredient has anti-pigment activity.
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.
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.
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.
Polygonatum Odoratum Rhizome Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polygonatum Odoratum Rhizome Extract
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Biosaccharide Gum-1A polysaccharide with humectant moisturizing and soothing properties.
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.
Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ziziphus Jujuba Fruit ExtractA soothing extract derived from the fruit known as Jujube, or Chinese date. It contains mainly anti-inflammatory terpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins.
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.
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.
Natto Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Natto Gum
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root ExtractA soothing and anti-pigment extract derived from a species of licorice with glycyrrhizin as the main active ingredient.
Prunus Mume Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Prunus Mume Fruit Extract
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.

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.

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.

Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
BHT
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
BHTAn antioxidant ingredient that naturally occurs in green algae and some bacteria or fungi but, for commercial use, is created synthetically. BHT is also used occasionally as a fragrance, where it presents a sweet, camphor-like odor.
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.
Lentinus Edodes Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lentinus Edodes 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.

Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract
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.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root ExtractA fragrant and anti-inflammatory extract derived from ginger roots. It is a major part of Chinese traditional medicine. In can increase blood circulation, which helps with skin healing and skin metabolism.

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