Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum Review

Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum
8.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
7.7 Humectancy icon Humectancy
8.3 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
9.3Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Review

Does Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum has to offer:
 
✅ Intense moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 8.0 out of 10.
✅ Potent anti-wrinkle effect. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 9.3 out of 10, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Rich Moisturizer Well-Suited for Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum is intensely moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 8.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Question icon The Humectancy (from 0 to 10) is based on the amount of humectants in the formula and indicates how well the product can attract moisture to the skin. Humectants are effective moisturizers that work well for all skin types. The Occlusivity (from 0 to 10) is based on the amount of occlusives in the formula and indicates how effective the product is at sealing moisture into the skin. Occlusive moisturizers are ideal for those with dry skin. Question icon The Humectancy (from 0 to 10) is based on the amount of humectants in the formula and indicates how well the product can attract moisture to the skin. Humectants are effective moisturizers that work well for all skin types. The Occlusivity (from 0 to 10) is based on the amount of occlusives in the formula and indicates how effective the product is at sealing moisture into the skin. Occlusive moisturizers are ideal for those with dry skin. Rather occlusive. It has a high humectancy of 7.7 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Polyglycerin-6 (est. ≈4.0%) and Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%), and a very high occlusivity of 8.3 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈9.0%) and Caprylyl Methicone (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of moisturizer is well-suited for people with dry skin who want intense hydration. It combines a significant concentration of humectants with a high level of occlusive ingredients to provide effective dual-action moisturizing specifically for dry skin.

The occlusive profile of Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

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

🟣🟣🟣 Potent Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum has a very high anti-wrinkle rating of 9.3 out of 10.

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

1️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%),
 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 Asiaticoside (est. ≈0.3%),
 derived from the plant Centella asiatica, an ingredient with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 27 participants (Lee et al.). This study demonstrated that a cream containing 0.1% asiaticoside reduced the average wrinkle depth by 8% after 12 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without asiaticoside).
 
3️⃣ 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).
 
Among others, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum also contains contains Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate and Asiatic Acid, 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.
 
While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
 
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.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈2.5%).

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: Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum 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.

⚠️ Best for Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With high occlusivity, this product is optimal for dry skin but may be too thick for combination and especially oily skin. Even on normal skin, it can feel too rich depending on the quantity applied, the environment, and individual preferences.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

Pros & Cons of Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ Rich moisturizer well-suited for dry skin: highly occlusive and humectant-packed
Delivers potent anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to ingredients like Niacinamide and Asiaticoside, among others
✅ 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
⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
   

Summary: Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum
 is highly effective in treating wrinkles, featuring ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy, in concentrations that may deliver a significant anti-wrinkle effect. Its exceptional moisturizing properties further enhance its anti-wrinkle efficacy.
 

It’s a well-suited moisturizer for dry skin, combining a high concentration of humectants and occlusive ingredients in a rich, thick texture.

With its high antioxidant content, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum 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 Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinol + Niacinamide Eye Serum is ideal for dry skin but may feel too thick on other skin types. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin, it’s a good idea to try a sample before purchasing.
 
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.

 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
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
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/PPG-20 Crosspolymer
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 Petal 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
7.7
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
16.6
9.0
6.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
8.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 7.7 10
7.7
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 16.6 20
8.3
9.0
6.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
8.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 7.7 10
7.7
All humectants
7.7
4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
6
1
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 16.6 20
8.3
All occlusives
16.6
9.0
6.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 2.5 3.8
3 /10 0.1 0.3 3
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
9.3
Niacinamide
3.8
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
2.5
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
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
9.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.6 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.6
Niacinamide
2.5
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
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 3.4 5 No
All soothing
3.4
2.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
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. %9
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. %6
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. %4
Function
Origin
Polyglycerin-6
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Est. %3
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. %2.5
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. %2
Function
Origin
Cetyl Diglyceryl Tris(Trimethylsiloxy)silylethyl Dimethicone
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %1.5
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. %1.3
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. %1
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/PPG-20 Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer
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 Petal Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Papaver Rhoeas Petal 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.