Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum

Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum
6.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
$$$$

Review

Results you may expect from using Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum:

Based on the ingredient analysis by CreamScan, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.6 out of 10.
  • Some anti-wrinkle efficacy: Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.5 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.

How moisturizing is it?

Highly moisturizing: Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum has a moisturizing rating of 6.6 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 Propanediol (est. ≈6.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 3.2 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Triheptanoin (est. ≈3.0%) and Dimethicone (est. ≈2.0%).

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

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 2.5 out of 10. It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Retinol (est. ≈0.1%), 
the most effective non-prescription ingredient with well-proven efficacy to reduce wrinkles.
 
Among others, Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum also contains contains Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate and Ubiquinone, 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.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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
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. %
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
10.9
6
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
6.5
3.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 10.9 10
10.0
6
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 6.5 20
3.2
3.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 6.5 20
3.2
All occlusives
6.5
3.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
6
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 10.9 10
10
All humectants
10.9
6
1.5
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2.5
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
Ubiquinone
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.2 3 No
All antioxidants
1.2
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
0.3
Ubiquinone
0.3
Algae Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Rating
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. %65
Function
Origin
The 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.
Propanediol
Est. %6
Function
Origin
An 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.
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Est. %4
Function
Origin
A 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.
Triheptanoin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Dimethicone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
The 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.
Glycerin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin

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

Pentylene Glycol
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
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.
Hexyldecanol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
An oil-like ingredient (ester) that is more stable and easy to incorporate than some other oil-based emollients. It is used in water-free and stick products.
Disiloxane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A silicone-based powerful emulsifier that helps to create lightweight and pleasant feeling lotions and creams.
Diheptyl Succinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A naturally-derived ingredient made from castor oil and wheat . Usually it is part of an ingredient blend as an alternative to silicones. It helps improve the spread of a product and reduce tackiness while remaining light on the skin.
Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
PPG-24-Glycereth-24
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A silicone fluid that is used as an occlusive moisturizer. It applies smoothly to the skin and reduces the tack associated with organic oils.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin

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.

Ubiquinone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Also known as Coenzyme Q10, this bright orange antioxidant supports the skin's energy metabolism. It also offers some anti-pigment action. Dietary supplementation of Ubiquinone improves the appearance of wrinkles.
Honey Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An extract obtained from honey that is comprised of proteins, minerals, and various bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, emollient, moisturizing humectant, and soothing properties.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A modified version of regular hyaluronic acid. It attracts large volumes of water, thereby making it an effective humectant moisturizing ingredient.
Algae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The name describes any extract made from any kind of algae. Algae extracts are moisturizing humectants – the gelatin-like polysaccharides bind and retain water, thereby hydrating the skin. Algae is a rich source of emollient and antioxidant compounds.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Phospholipids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A large group of lipids that are an essential component of every single cell membrane in the body. They have excellent emollient properties. Phospholipids are also utilized in the manufacturing of ‘fancy’ formulations such as liposomes.
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fungi ingredient made from baker's yeast. It is moisturizing and contains various beneficial compounds that support skin health. Among these is beta-glucan, the praised wound healing polysaccharide.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic polymer that can come in various forms and is often used to create light gel-like textures. Some versions can also create a light film on the skin.
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
4-t-Butylcyclohexanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A powerful bioactive compound designed to soothe irritated, burning, and itchy skin. The effectiveness of its soothing properties has been proven by clinical trials and it is often combined with other soothing ingredients.
Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A naturally-derived or synthetically produced mild emulsifier.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A sweet-tasting alcohol derived from glucose. Aside from its sweet taste (for which it is used as a very common sweetener), Sorbitol is also very good at retaining water and is used in skincare as a humectant.
Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative effective against fungi, yeast, and some bacteria. It is commonly paired with phenoxyethanol to create a broad spectrum preservation system. Benzoic acid can also serve as a pH adjuster, fragrance, and bulking agent.
Dehydroacetic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A globally approved preservative ingredient. It is a powerful fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it a broad-spectrum preservative. Because it is mildly effective against bacteria, it is often paired with stronger bactericides.
Sodium Phytate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium 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.
Glyceryl Polyacrylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A synthetic thickening polymer that can be used in a variety of product types. This polymer can feel lightweight but can also stand up to heavier ingredients in products like body butters.
Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Description is coming soon
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Brassica campestris sterols are a mixture of sterols (fat-like compounds) obtained from rapeseed oil. They are used as an emollient additive to the oil base of a cosmetic product. Read more about rapeseed oil here: Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Seed Oil.
PVP
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An excellent film-former used in hairsprays, peel-off masks, and even some self-tanning products. These films are strong and hold onto the skin.
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A naturally-derived film-former that increases water resistance of a product. It is also referred to as an alternative to dimethicone.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
An 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.
Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
Decyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A surfactant that can function as both a cleansing agent and emulsifier. As a cleansing agent, it is very mild on the skin. As an emulsifier, decyl glucoside will produce oil-in-water emulsions. It is naturally derived from vegetable oils and starch.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
The 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.
Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
A 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.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
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.