TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum Review

TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum
5.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.6 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.2Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Water, Cyclomethicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Panthenol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Jojoba Esters, C14-22 Alcohols, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyquaternium-51, Dimethiconol, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Adenosine, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Dextrin, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Citric Acid, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA
Review

Does TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum has to offer:
 
✅ Strong humectant moisturizing. This lightweight, humectant-rich product, ideal for oily skin, has a moisturizing rating of 5.3 out of 10.
✅ Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.2 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
✅ Soothing: TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum:
 

🔵 Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.6 out of 10 and a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈56.0%) and Glycerin (est. ≈16.0%).

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.

💧 A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - 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.

🟣 Modest Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.2 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈1.5%),
 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).
 
Among others, TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum also contains some ingredients marketed often as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Adenosine, and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid. 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.
 
📌 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 additional 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 TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈56.0%).

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.

🔴 Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (est. ≈56.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Pros & Cons of TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
Offers modest anti-wrinkle efficacy
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
 

⭕ Cons: 

✅ We couldn't find any
   

Summary: TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, making it ideal for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.
 
TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic Serum contains ingredients with proven evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy that may provide a modest anti-wrinkle effect. As a result, you can expect a positive, though not very significant, impact on wrinkles.
 
Rich in antioxidants, TONYMOLY The Black Tea London Classic 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. This product is also formulated with a high concentration of soothing ingredients, offering the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
📌 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.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
56
16
8
4.4
2.9
2.2
1.5
1.1
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
Est. %
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Dipropylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Cyclomethicone
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Function:
Origin:
Jojoba Esters
Function:
Origin:
C14-22 Alcohols
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Polydecene
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Polyquaternium-51
Function:
Origin:
Dimethiconol
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters
Function:
Origin:
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Carbomer
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract
Function:
Origin:
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Dextrin
Function:
Origin:
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Tromethamine
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
74.1
56
16
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
1.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 74.1 10
10.0
56
16
1.5
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 1.2 20
0.6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
56
16
1.5
0.3
0.3
All humectants 74.1 10
10
All humectants
74.1
56
16
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 1.2 20
0.6
All occlusives
1.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 1.5 2.2
n/a
- 56 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
2.2
Niacinamide
2.2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.5
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
56
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
56
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 58.4 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
58.4
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
56
Niacinamide
1.5
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
0.3
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract
0.3
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
56
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 58.4 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
58.4
56
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %56
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Glycerin
Est. %16
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Dipropylene Glycol
Est. %8
Function
Origin
Dipropylene GlycolA clear, colorless liquid that has several uses. One of its main functions is as a solvent. Dipropylene glycol is also used to reduce the thickness of skincare products.
Water
Est. %4.4
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.
Cyclomethicone
Est. %2.9
Function
Origin
CyclomethiconeA blend of emollient silicones that leaves a smooth and non-greasy after-feel. Unlike other types of oils, it does not leave any residue on the skin, which is part of what makes it so popular.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %2.2
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.
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.

Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Est. %1.1
Function
Origin
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA type of spherical powder that functions on a ball-bearing effect in which the tiny microspheres roll around on the skin and create lubricity. Polymethylsilsesquioxane offers extra slip to skincare products and makes the skin feel soft and smooth.
Glyceryl Polymethacrylate
Est. %1
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.
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA 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.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil

An essential oil expressed from the peels of the bergamot orange. The scent of bergamot oil is woodier than those of other citrus essential oils. This essential oil is still not recommended if you are sensitive to citrus fruits.

Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf OilA fragrant and antioxidant essential tea tree oil praised for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oil helps to treat acne, inflamed skin, and small wounds. It might, however, cause allergies and skin irritations.
Jojoba Esters
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Jojoba EstersA mixture of various wax esters from jojoba oil. It is used in skincare products as a fantastic emollient, soothing, and occlusive moisturizing agent that won't leave a sticky, oily feeling on the skin.
C14-22 Alcohols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C14-22 AlcoholsA naturally-derived emulsion stabilizer that has a light feel. It is not a drying alcohol, in fact the emulsions it helps create can make the skin feel soft and cushioned.
Hydrogenated Polydecene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated PolydeceneA clear, colorless, highly viscous liquid that commonly serves as an emollient. This rich emollient is on the heavier side but provides a smooth sensorial profile upon application.
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.
Polyquaternium-51
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyquaternium-51A biocompatible phospholipid copolymer that is designed to mimic the lipid-based cell membrane found in human skin. Its main function is as a humectant moisturizer.
Dimethiconol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DimethiconolA synthetic dimethicone with rich, non-tacky emolliency. It features the typical sensorial profile of silicones, with high spreadability and a luxurious, oil-free after-feel. Dimethiconol can also serve as an antifoaming agent.
Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Jojoba EstersAn occlusive moisturizing mixture of fatty acids and fatty alcohols obtained from jojoba oil. It is also used as a formula helper.
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Carbomer
Est. %0.3
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.
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HydroxyethylcelluloseA naturally-derived thickener that can form clear gel textures without the slimy feeling, unlike some other natural gel-formers.
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.

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.

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic AcidA derivative of vitamin C. Its stability in skincare formulations is better than ascorbic acid’s, although clinical studies are yet to indicate whether it has the same collagen-boosting benefits.
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.
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylhydroxamic AcidA chelating agent used alongside preservatives in order to boost their antimicrobial activity.
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.
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.
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.