Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment Review

Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment
4.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.6 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
8.6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Review

Does Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment has to offer:
 
Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.8 out of 10.
✅ Potent anti-wrinkle effect. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 8.6 out of 10, Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment is highly potent in reducing wrinkles.
✅ Soothing: Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment:
 

🔵🔵 Suitable Moisturizer for Normal Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? This product has relatively comparable levels of humectancy and occlusivity: a moderate humectancy of 5.6 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 4.0 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of moisturizer is suitable for people with normal skin who want essential hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a moderate amount of humectants and occlusive ingredients to provide dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

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

🟣🟣🟣 Potent Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment has a very high anti-wrinkle rating of 8.6 out of 10.

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

1️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%),
 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 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).
 
3️⃣ Ascorbic Acid (est. ≈0.3%),
 or Vitamin C, a popular ingredient, yet with moderate anti-wrinkle efficacy, as confirmed by a single clinical study involving 20 participants (Humbert et al.). This study showed that a cream with a relatively high concentration of 5% ascorbic acid reduced the average wrinkle depth by 7% after 6 months of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without ascorbic acid).
 
Among others, Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment also contains some ingredients marketed often as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Retinyl Palmitate, Centella Asiatica Extract, and Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate. 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 Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%) and Kojic Acid (est. ≈3.0%).

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, Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

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

Things to Be Aware Of: Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment 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.

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment contains a rather average amount of humectants.

People with normal skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Suitable for moisturizing normal skin
Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
Delivers potent anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to ingredients like Niacinamide and Retinol, among others
✅ 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 Niacinamide
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
   

Summary: Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment
 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.
 

As a moisturizer, it is suitable for normal skin, combining a moderate concentration of humectants and occlusive ingredients to provide dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

Rich in antioxidants, Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment 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.
 
That said, there are some things about Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment worth noting.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains a limited amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing Urban Skin Rx Retinol Rapid Repair & Dark Spot Treatment with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
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
75
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
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Kojic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylamide
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Glutathione
Function:
Origin:
Retinyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Ascorbic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Azelaic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Alpha-Arbutin
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Metabisulfite
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Ceramide NP
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Centella Asiatica Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Function:
Origin:
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract
Function:
Origin:
Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Veronica Officinalis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Achillea Millefolium Extract
Function:
Origin:
Primula Veris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Laureth-7
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Triethanolamine
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxybutyrate
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)
Function:
Origin:
Ethylene Distearamide
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.6
4
1
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
8.1
6.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.6 10
5.6
4
1
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 8.1 20
4.0
6.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
4.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
1
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.6 10
5.6
All humectants
5.6
4
1
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
1.5
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 8.1 20
4.0
All occlusives
8.1
6.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 4 6
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
2.5 /10 5 0.3 0.1
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
8.6
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
4
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Ascorbic Acid
0.1
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
2.5 /10
when present at, %
5
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Retinyl Palmitate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Centella Asiatica Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
8.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 10.7 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
10.7
Niacinamide
4
Kojic Acid
3
Sodium Hyaluronate
1
Ascorbic Acid
0.3
Glutathione
0.3
Alpha-Arbutin
0.3
Sodium Metabisulfite
0.3
Centella Asiatica Extract
0.3
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
0.3
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
0.3
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract
0.3
Veronica Officinalis Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 5.8 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.8
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
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.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Niacinamide
Est. %4
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.

Kojic Acid
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Kojic AcidA bioactive compound isolated from various fungi or fermented products. It is one of the most common and potent anti-pigment and brightening ingredients, and has been successfully tested on humans.
Polyacrylamide
Est. %2
Function
Origin
PolyacrylamideA synthetic ingredient that can thicken products instantly while still keeping them light and often gel-like.
Squalane
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
C13-14 IsoparaffinA lightweight petroleum derivative. It is a very thin liquid that functions as an emollient and a solvent for other liquids (such as thicker oils or silicones).
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Glutathione
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
GlutathioneA naturally occurring tripeptide that combats free radicals and acts as a reducing agent.
Retinyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Retinyl PalmitateAn esterified form of retinol – it combines retinol and palmitic acid into one molecule. Retinyl palmitate is less irritating than retinol but also much less effective in its anti-aging and acne-reducing effects.
Ascorbic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ascorbic Acid

Also known as vitamin C, this multi-benefit ingredient has proven anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, and anti-pigmentation efficacy. It degrades easily when exposed to air and light, so it requires proper packaging to maintain its stability.

Azelaic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Azelaic AcidA powerful dermatological ingredient that helps to treat acne and various pigmentation issues. It appears both in medicated creams and regular skincare. It reduces redness and inflammation but can be irritating in high concentrations.
Alpha-Arbutin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alpha-Arbutin
Sodium Metabisulfite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium MetabisulfiteA preservative that is especially effective at preventing fungus and mold growth. It is normally combined with a strong bactericidal preservative in order to achieve broad-spectrum protection. Sodium metabisulfite is also used as an antioxidant.
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.
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.

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.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

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

Centella Asiatica Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Centella Asiatica ExtractAn extract from the leaves of the Gotu kola. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. It increases the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA lipid-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and less irritating than ascorbic acid. According to a recent clinical study, THDA has all the capabilities of regular vitamin C, including anti-wrinkle and anti-pigment activity.
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) ExtractA vibrant, purple extract obtained from the dark flowers of common mallow. Its main active ingredient is an emollient and soothing thick mucilage.
Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alchemilla Vulgaris ExtractA soothing extract that is derived from the lady's mantle plant. It contains plenty of astringent tannins and certain anti-inflammatory compounds.
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Melissa Officinalis Leaf ExtractA fragrant extract derived from lemon balm leaves with antioxidant and antiviral flavonoids and terpenes. It has a lovely, fresh, lemon-like scent.
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf ExtractA fragrant extract derived from the leaves of peppermint. It contains a pleasant-smelling essential oil, as well as plenty of antioxidant flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids.
Veronica Officinalis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Veronica Officinalis ExtractAn antioxidant extract obtained from a native European flowering plant called heath speedwell, otherwise known as Paul's betony.
Achillea Millefolium Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Achillea Millefolium ExtractAn extract obtained from the common yarrow. It is full of astringent and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals that help with inflamed skin and wound healing, have soothing and refreshing effects on the skin, and give the product a fresh, green, and spicy scent.
Primula Veris Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Primula Veris ExtractDerived from either the root or flower of the cowslip primrose, this soothing extract contains anti-inflammatory triterpene saponins and phenolic acids.
Laureth-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laureth-7A mild but effective functional ingredient. It can emulsify (efficiently mix water and oil) without needing too much in a formula.
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.
Cetyl Palmitate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cetyl PalmitateA moisturizing occlusive and emollient wax ester that consists of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid. In nature, cetyl palmitate is found, and was first identified, in spermaceti, a waxy substance from inside the skull of the sperm whale.
Triethanolamine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethanolamineA clear, colorless, and highly viscous liquid, this ingredient is an excellent pH adjuster. When it is necessary to neutralize an acidic solution or to generally increase the pH of a product, triethanolamine is a common choice.
Polyhydroxybutyrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxybutyrate
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)
Ethylene Distearamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylene Distearamide
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.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe 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.