Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Review

Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid
4.1
/ 10
Moisturizing
8.1 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Review

Does Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid has to offer:
 
  • Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.1 out of 10.
  • Modest anti-wrinkle efficacy: Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.5 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Soothing: Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.

Key Benefits of Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid:
 

Lightweight Humectant Moisturizer Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.1 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 very high humectancy of 8.1 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Pentylene Glycol (est. ≈7.5%).

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, Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid has a modest level of anti-wrinkle efficacy, rated 2.5 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: 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).
 
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.

Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water (est. ≈13.7%).

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 AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid 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.

Pros & Cons of Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Tree of Life Retinol Serum with Botanical Hyaluronic Acid 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
  • Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water

Cons: 

  • May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
50
27.4
13.7
7.5
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
Est. %
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Function:
Origin:
Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Phospholipids
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Function:
Origin:
Carrageenan
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Bran
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Callus
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
8.1
7.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 8.1 10
8.1
7.5
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
4.1
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
7.5
0.3
0.3
All humectants 8.1 10
8.1
All humectants
8.1
7.5
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
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
Total
2.5
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Anti-wrinkle rating
2.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Callus
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
13.7
All soothing 13.7 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
13.7
13.7
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Est. %50
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide
Est. %27.4
Function
Origin
Cassia Angustifolia Seed PolysaccharideAn ingredient obtained from a plant commonly called Senna. Polysaccharides are known to create a mild humectant film on the skin, helping to retain moisture. It can also make the skin appear smooth and contribute to a glowing look.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Est. %13.7
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) WaterA fragrant, astringent essential water obtained by steeping and distilling the twigs and leaves of the witch hazel plant. It leaves the skin feeling tight and refreshed after application and helps with the healing of small cuts on the skin.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %7.5
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.

Phospholipids
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhospholipidsA 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.
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.

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.
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.
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.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Butter
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Bran
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Bran
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Camellia Sinensis Callus
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Callus
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.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA 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.
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.