Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum

Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum
5.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.7 Humectancy icon Humectancy
5.5 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
7.7Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants

Review

Results you may expect from using Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum:

  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.
  • Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 7.7 out of 10, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
  • Antioxidant protection.

How moisturizing is it?

Quite moisturizing: Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum has a moisturizing rating of 5.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of humectancy and occlusivity: a moderate humectancy of 5.7 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Polyglycerin-6 (est. ≈3.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 5.5 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Dimethicone (est. ≈6.0%) and Caprylyl Methicone (est. ≈4.0%).

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

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 7.7 out of 10.

It contains 3 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

  • Asiaticoside (est. ≈0.3%),
     derived from the plant Centella asiatica, an ingredient with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy confirmed by one study.
  • Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
     the most effective non-prescription ingredient with well-proven efficacy to reduce wrinkles.
  • Niacinamide (est. ≈1.5%),
     one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients.
Among others, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum also contains contains Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate and Asiatic Acid, two ingredients 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 contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Antioxidant benefits

We estimate that Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈1.5%), Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil (est. ≈0.3%), Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (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
Water
6
Dimethicone
4
Caprylyl Methicone
3
Polyglycerin-6
2
Dimethyl Isosorbide
1.5
Niacinamide
1.3
Cetyl Diglyceryl Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)silylethyl Dimethicone
1
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
0.3
Octyldodecanol
0.3
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
0.3
PEG-12 Dimethicone
0.3
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
0.3
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
0.1
Retinol
0.3
Asiaticoside
0.3
Madecassoside
0.3
Asiatic Acid
0.3
Papaver Rhoeas Extract
0.3
Bellis Perennis (Daisy) Flower Extract
0.3
Hieracium Pilosella Extract
0.3
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
0.3
Ceramide NP
0.3
Pentylene Glycol
0.3
Lecithin
0.3
Methylpropanediol
0.3
Polysorbate 20
0.3
Potassium Phosphate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Caprylyl Glycol
0.3
Polyquaternium-80
0.3
Didecyldimonium Chloride
0.3
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
0.3
Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol
0.3
Alcohol
0.3
Sodium Phytate
0.3
Citric Acid
0.3
Sodium Citrate
0.3
Sodium Benzoate
0.3
Sodium Dehydroacetate
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Polyglycerin-6
Function:
Origin:
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Diglyceryl Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)silylethyl Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Function:
Origin:
Octyldodecanol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Asiaticoside
Function:
Origin:
Madecassoside
Function:
Origin:
Asiatic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Papaver Rhoeas Extract
Function:
Origin:
Bellis Perennis (Daisy) Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Hieracium Pilosella Extract
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Methylpropanediol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-80
Function:
Origin:
Didecyldimonium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Function:
Origin:
Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Phytate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Dehydroacetate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.7
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
10.9
6.0
4.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.7 10
5.7
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 10.9 20
5.5
6.0
4.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.7 10
5.7
All humectants
5.7
3
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 10.9 20
5.5
All occlusives
10.9
6.0
4.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
3 /10 0.1 0.3 3
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
6 /10 4 1.5 2.2
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
7.7
Asiaticoside
3
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
3 /10
when present at, %
0.1
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Niacinamide
2.2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.5
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Asiatic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
7.7
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.5
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
Niacinamide
1.5
Asiaticoside
0.3
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
0.3
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
0.3
Madecassoside
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
0.3
Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.5
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.1 5 No
All soothing
2.1
1.5
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.
Dimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Caprylyl Methicone
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Caprylyl MethiconeA liquid silicone with occlusive moisturizing properties. Being compatible with natural oils is a challenge for most silicones, but caprylyl methicone plays well with all types of oils.
Polyglycerin-6
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Polyglycerin-6
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Dimethyl IsosorbideA solvent for active ingredients that is claimed to help them better penetrate the outer layer of skin. It also helps to reduce the thickness of a product.
Niacinamide
Est. %1.5
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.

Cetyl Diglyceryl Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)silylethyl Dimethicone
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl Diglyceryl Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)silylethyl Dimethicone
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %1
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.
Octyldodecanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
OctyldodecanolAn emollient fatty alcohol that spreads easily without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. It is also used as a solvent and dispersing agent for other ingredients.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
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.
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-12 DimethiconeA synthetic silicone that improves lubricity and absorption.
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil

A famous olive oil widely used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive moisturizer. It contains mainly unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant flavonoids, and oleuropeins. Olive oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydroxypinacolone RetinoateThe newest derivative of vitamin A with improved stability, less irritation, and (allegedly) direct vitamin A action. Studies recommend it for acne treatment and collagen-boosting effects.
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.

Asiaticoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Asiaticoside

A Gotu Kola or Centella Asiatica derivative with confirmed anti-wrinkle efficacy.

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.
Asiatic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Asiatic AcidA compound isolated from Gotu Kola, a promising anti-wrinkle medicinal plant from Southeast Asia. It is claimed to increase the production of collagen and help with the wound healing process.
Papaver Rhoeas Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Papaver Rhoeas Extract
Bellis Perennis (Daisy) Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bellis Perennis (Daisy) Flower ExtractA soothing extract obtained from the flowers of the common daisy with additional astringent and wound healing benefits.
Hieracium Pilosella Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hieracium Pilosella Extract
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone CrosspolymerThis ingredient can refer to several kinds of dimethicone crosspolymers. Like other silicones, it makes products feel slippery and non-greasy but can also increase the thickness or improve the water-resistance of a formula.
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.
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.

Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Methylpropanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethylpropanediolMethylpropanediol is a unique glycol that contains two primary hydroxyl groups. That makes methylpropanediol a powerful humectant and an excellent solvent.
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.
Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium PhosphateA salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
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.

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.
Polyquaternium-80
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-80
Didecyldimonium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Didecyldimonium Chloride
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl HydroxyhydrocinnamateAn antioxidant that protects vulnerable ingredients from the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, which can also lead to the generation of damaging free radical species.
Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol
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.
Sodium Phytate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium PhytateSodium phytate is a chelating agent that serves to remove heavy metal ions from water. Removing metal ions helps other ingredients, such as antioxidants and preservatives, to perform better and keep products from separating.
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.
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.
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.
Sodium Dehydroacetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium DehydroacetateA sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid that is most commonly used as a preservative. It is a strong fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it an effective broad-spectrum preservative.