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African Botanics African Botanics Marula Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum - Product image showing packaging and label for comedogenic ingredient analysis
African BotanicsSerum

African Botanics Marula Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum

High Risk(11)
40 ingredients3 flagged

The African Botanics Marula Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum is a sophisticated treatment designed to target signs of aging and environmental damage. Formulated with a base of soothing Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) and hydrating Vegetable Glycerin, this serum aims to revitalize the complexion through potent botanical extracts. Key ingredients like Arnica Cordifolia and Aloe Ferox (Bitter Aloe) provide notable anti-inflammatory benefits, making the initial application feel calming and refreshing. The texture is designed to be lightweight and fast-absorbing, typical of high-end African-sourced botanical serums. While it offers a wealth of antioxidants and skin-renewing properties, the formulation includes several high-risk components that users with breakout-prone skin must consider. It represents a bridge between luxury artisanal skincare and clinical results, providing intense nourishment for the skin barrier. However, for those managing active acne, the specific lipid profile of this serum requires a closer look at its potential to cause congestion.

Our Analysis

Our analysis of the African Botanics Marula Resurrection Cell Recovery Serum reveals a High Comedogenic Risk level. The primary concern is Algae Extract, which carries a maximum 5/5 rating; it is rich in iodides that can irritate the pore lining and trigger micro-comedones. Furthermore, the inclusion of Oleic Acid (4/5) can disrupt barrier function in certain skin types, leading to further blockages. While Tocopherol is a standard antioxidant, in this concentration, it contributes to the overall clogging potential. For those with acne-prone skin, these ingredients pose a significant risk of triggering inflammatory breakouts.

Skin Type Recommendations

This serum is best suited for dry or mature skin types that require intense lipid replenishment and aren't prone to acne. We strongly advise those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin to avoid this product. The combination of algae extract and oleic acid is likely to cause significant pore congestion.

Flagged Ingredients

5
algae extract

Rich in iodides which irritate the pore lining, triggering inflammation and micro-comedones.

4
oleic acid

Disrupts skin barrier function and induces pore blockage.

2
tocopherol

Pure Vitamin E is thick and sticky; safe in small amounts as an antioxidant, but potentially clogging in pure oil form.

Want Deeper Analysis?

Run our MACR (Multi-Axis Comedogenic Risk) analysis to get a comprehensive 5-axis risk assessment. This AI-powered analysis evaluates ingredients for Plugging Risk, Barrier Damage, Fungal Acne Risk, Oxidation Risk, and real-world User Reports — giving you personalized scores for your skin type.

Full Ingredient List(40 ingredients)

Aqua (Water)Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Distillate OilVegetable GlycerinArnica Cordifolia ExtractAloe Ferox (Bitter Aloe) Leaf Extract*Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) ExtractMyrothamnus Flabellifolius (Resurrection) Plant ExtractSambucus Nigra (Elder) Flower ExtractMalva Sylvestris (Mallow) ExtractHedera Helix (Ivy) ExtractAnacyclus Pyrethrum (Pellitory) ExtractPanthenolHydrolyzed Wheat ProteinSodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Phytic AcidSclerocarya Birrea (Marula)* Seed OilAdansonia Digitata (Baobab)* Seed OilLinoleic AcidKigelia Africana Fruit Extract*SorbitolTocopherol (Vitamin E)Ascorbyl Methylsilanol PectinateUrtica Dioica (Nettle) ExtractEquisetum Arvense (Horsetail) ExtractHydrocotyl (Centella Asiatica) Gotu Kola ExtractChamomile Matricaria Extract*Chlorella Vulgaris (Green Algae) ExtractLepidium Sativum Sprout (Swiss Garden Cress) ExtractLecithinAspalathus Linearis (Rooibos Tea) ExtractPichia/​Resveratrol Ferment ExtractRetinyl PalmitatePalmitoyl Tripeptide-5Citrus Aurantium (Neroli) Essential OilEriocephalus Punctulatus (Cape Chamomile)* Essential OilRosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)* Leaf Essential OilPichia/Resveratrol Ferment ExtractRead all the geeky details about Glycerin here >>Read all the geeky details about Tocopherol here >>[more]

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Our analysis is powered by AI and backed by extensive research on comedogenic ingredients — but it's not medical advice. For skin concerns, please consult a dermatologist.