Adapalene 0.3% Gel
Adapalene 0.3% Gel
Product Description
Product overview
Taro Adapalene 0.3% Gel is a prescription-strength third-generation retinoid formulated for the topical treatment of moderate to severe acne vulgaris. At triple the concentration of OTC adapalene, this medical-grade gel delivers significantly greater lesion reduction, accelerated cell turnover, and proven anti-inflammatory action in a clean, fragrance-free aqueous base with only 9 ingredients.
3× Stronger Than OTC Adapalene
At 0.3% concentration, this prescription-strength formula delivers significantly greater acne lesion reduction than the standard 0.1% gel available over the counter.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3× Stronger Than OTC Adapalene
At 0.3% concentration, this prescription-strength formula delivers significantly greater acne lesion reduction than the standard 0.1% gel available over the counter.
Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Action
Adapalene selectively binds to RAR-beta and RAR-gamma receptors, down-regulating toll-like receptor 2 and interleukin-8 to reduce redness and swelling at the source.
Normalizes Cell Turnover
Reverses abnormal follicular keratinization and microcomedo formation, preventing pores from clogging and keeping skin clear long-term.
Improves Acne Scars
Clinical studies show adapalene 0.3% improves atrophic acne scars by stimulating collagen production, with over 50% of subjects seeing improvement in skin texture at 24 weeks.
Photostable Retinoid
Unlike tretinoin and tazarotene, adapalene is chemically stable and resistant to photodegradation, making it the most robust topical retinoid molecule.
Ultra-Minimal Formula
Only 9 ingredients in a clean aqueous gel base. Free from fragrance, dyes, oils, silicones, and sulfates — designed to minimize irritation risk.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAdapalene is a retinoid (Category C). Oral retinoids cause birth defects, and while topical absorption is minimal, it is recommended to discontinue use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Topical adapalene has low systemic absorption (<2%). If used while nursing, apply to the smallest area possible, avoid the chest, and ensure no skin-to-skin contact with infant on treated areas.
Contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or ferments that feed Malassezia yeast. Adapalene may also create an inhospitable environment for yeast by normalizing keratinization and reducing sebum.
This ultra-minimal gel formula is oil-free and unlikely to clog pores. The only ingredient with any comedogenic potential is propylene glycol, rated 0 on the comedogenic scale.
Adapalene thins the stratum corneum, increasing UV sensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily and avoid prolonged sun exposure, sunlamps, and tanning beds during treatment.
Erythema, scaling, dryness, and stinging/burning are common during the first 4 weeks. These are typically mild to moderate and lessen with continued use. Use moisturizer to manage dryness.
Free of common allergens including fragrances, dyes, lanolin, coconut derivatives, gluten, soy, and sulfates. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Used as a preservative at a very low concentration. Methylparaben has a long safety record in topical pharmaceuticals and is considered safe for use in cosmetics by the CIR Expert Panel.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAdapalene 0.3%Proven
A third-generation synthetic retinoid that selectively binds to RAR-beta and RAR-gamma nuclear receptors. It normalizes abnormal follicular keratinization, reduces microcomedo formation, and has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Clinical Proof: Phase III trials on 653 patients showed adapalene 0.3% was significantly superior to 0.1% in total lesion count reduction, inflammatory lesion reduction, and success rate.
- Dose Response: 49% mean total lesion reduction at 0.3% vs. 39% at 0.1% vs. 27% with vehicle after 12 weeks.
- Scar Improvement: At 24 weeks of use, 50% of subjects showed investigator-assessed improvement in atrophic acne scars.
- Anti-Fungal Bonus: Studies show adapalene creates an environment inhospitable to Malassezia yeast by normalizing keratinization and reducing sebum secretion.
Carbomer ~1%Proven
A high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid used to form the gel matrix. Due to its large molecular size, carbomer has minimal skin penetration and is considered an inert, non-irritating thickening agent.
- Function: Creates the gel consistency, ensuring even distribution of adapalene across the skin surface.
- Safety: Considered biologically inert with no systemic absorption. Used extensively in pharmaceutical and cosmetic gel formulations.
Disodium EDTA <0.5%Proven
A chelating agent that neutralizes metal ions in the formula, boosting preservative efficacy and preventing product degradation from trace metals.
- Function: Enhances formula stability and extends shelf life by binding free metal ions that could catalyze oxidation.
- Safety: The CIR Expert Panel has concluded disodium EDTA is safe as used in cosmetic formulations.
Methylparaben <0.3%Proven
A widely used antimicrobial preservative that prevents bacterial and fungal growth in the product, ensuring safety throughout its shelf life.
- Function: Broad-spectrum preservation against bacteria and mold at very low concentrations.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating of 0. CIR-assessed as safe for cosmetic use. Minimal skin sensitization potential.
Poloxamer 124 <2%Proven
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier that helps dissolve adapalene within the aqueous gel base and enhances ingredient delivery to the skin.
- Function: Solubilizes lipophilic adapalene into the water-based gel, ensuring uniform drug distribution.
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-comedogenic surfactant commonly used in pharmaceutical formulations.
Propylene Glycol ~5%Proven
A multifunctional humectant and solvent that enhances skin hydration, improves penetration of active ingredients, and contributes antimicrobial properties to the formula.
- Function: Acts as a penetration enhancer for adapalene, humectant for hydration, and co-solvent in the gel base.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating of 0. Generally well-tolerated, though individuals with very sensitive skin or propylene glycol allergy may experience irritation.
Water (Purified) ~90%Proven
The primary solvent and base of the gel formulation. Pharmaceutical-grade purified water serves as the vehicle for all other ingredients.
- Function: Forms the aqueous base of the gel, dissolving water-soluble ingredients and creating the lightweight, non-greasy texture.
Sodium Hydroxide <0.1%Proven
A pH adjuster used in trace amounts to optimize the formulation's acidity, ensuring adapalene remains stable and effective on the skin.
- Function: Adjusts pH to the optimal range for adapalene stability and skin compatibility.
- Safety: Used at neutralizing concentrations that are fully reacted in the final product. Not present as free alkali.
Hydrochloric Acid traceProven
A secondary pH adjuster used to fine-tune the formulation's acidity. Present only in trace amounts after neutralization.
- Function: Fine-tunes pH after sodium hydroxide adjustment. A naturally occurring acid found in the human body.
- Safety: Fully neutralized in the final product. No free acid remains on the skin.
9 ingredients
Adapalene (0.3%), Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Poloxamer 124, Propylene Glycol, Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydrochloric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once daily in the PM only. Wait 20–30 minutes after cleansing for skin to fully dry before application. Always follow with moisturizer and use SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash affected areas with a mild, non-medicated cleanser. Pat skin dry and wait 20–30 minutes until completely dry.
Apply a Thin Film
Apply a pea-sized amount of Adapalene 0.3% Gel as a thin layer to the entire face and any other affected skin areas. Avoid eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
Moisturize
Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to combat dryness. For sensitive skin, you may apply moisturizer before adapalene as a buffer.
Protect in the Morning
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning. Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure. Wear protective clothing when possible.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have moderate to severe acne that hasn't responded to OTC adapalene 0.1%
- You need stronger comedolytic and anti-inflammatory action
- You want to address acne and atrophic acne scarring simultaneously
- You're an adult woman with persistent acne resistant to antibiotics
- You have acne-prone or oily skin and prefer a lightweight gel
- You struggle with fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe retinoid
- You've tolerated 0.1% adapalene and want to step up treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding (retinoid — consult doctor)
- You have a known hypersensitivity to adapalene or any excipient
- You have extremely dry, eczema-prone, or compromised skin barrier
- You are under 12 years of age
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You are new to retinoids (start with 0.1% first to assess tolerance)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Adapalene also helps reduce excess sebum production over time.
Expect increased dryness and flaking, especially in the first month. Pair with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Consider buffering technique.
Ideal for combo skin. Apply to entire face — the gel normalizes cell turnover across both oily and dry zones effectively.
Adapalene is the least irritating retinoid, but 0.3% is potent. Start every other night with buffering moisturizer. Irritation typically subsides after 4 weeks.
This product is specifically FDA-approved for acne vulgaris. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, oil-free formula designed for breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 4–6+Adjustment & Possible Purging
Mild erythema, dryness, and stinging are common. Some may experience a temporary increase in breakouts (purging) as trapped comedones surface. This is normal.
70% experience initial drynessIrritation Peaks Then Subsides
Scaling and dryness typically peak around week 3–4, then begin improving. Purging breakouts start to resolve. Skin begins to tolerate the treatment better.
60% see purging resolveVisible Acne Reduction Begins
Noticeable decrease in both inflammatory (papules, pustules) and non-inflammatory (blackheads, whiteheads) lesions. Skin texture starts improving. Redness decreases.
52% reduction in inflammatory lesionsSignificant Improvement
Clinical trials demonstrate a 49% mean reduction in total lesions at 12 weeks with adapalene 0.3%. Most patients report clearer, smoother skin with reduced post-inflammatory marks.
75% achieve ≥2 grade improvementOngoing Improvement & Scar Fading
Continued use beyond 12 weeks yields further improvement. Atrophic acne scar appearance improves with sustained collagen remodeling. Maintenance use prevents new breakouts.
50% see scar improvement at 24 weeksRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven superior to adapalene 0.1% in large Phase III trials
- Better tolerated than tretinoin and tazarotene with less irritation
- Photostable molecule — less concern about UV degradation
- Ultra-minimal 9-ingredient formula reduces irritation and allergy risk
- Fungal acne safe — no Malassezia-feeding ingredients
- Effective on both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions
- Also improves atrophic acne scars with continued use
- Oil-free gel absorbs cleanly without residue
Criticized
- Prescription required — cannot be purchased OTC
- Initial purging and dryness can be discouraging for first 2–4 weeks
- Not safe for use during pregnancy
- Requires consistent daily sunscreen use
- Results take 8–12 weeks to become visible
- Contains methylparaben (concern for some users, though safe per CIR)
- Can be drying for those with already dry or eczema-prone skin
- Not as effective for anti-aging/wrinkles compared to tretinoin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same active ingredient at one-third the concentration. Available OTC without prescription. Less effective for moderate-severe acne but gentler and ideal for beginners or mild acne.
OTC adapalene 0.1% in a dermatologist-backed brand. Similar mechanism but lower strength. Slightly different vehicle with poloxamer 182 instead of 124. Premium branding at a higher price point.
Generic OTC adapalene at the lowest price point. Same 0.1% concentration with a paraben-free vehicle. Good entry-level retinoid but lacks the 0.3% potency for moderate-severe acne.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Tazarotene 0.1% Gel (Tazorac)
Differin Gel 0.1% (OTC)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date on carton and tube.
Store at controlled room temperature 68°–77°F (20°–25°C). Excursions permitted between 59°–86°F (15°–30°C). Protect from freezing.
45 g aluminum tube with screw cap in printed carton
Yes — 45 g tube is well under the 100 ml / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on liquid limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo — Adapalene is a retinoid and should not be used during pregnancy. While topical absorption is very low (less than 2%), oral retinoids are known teratogens, and the FDA classifies adapalene as Pregnancy Category C. Discontinue use if you become pregnant or are planning pregnancy. For breastfeeding, adapalene 0.3% is considered acceptable by some experts due to minimal systemic absorption, but use on the smallest area possible, avoid the breast area, and prevent direct skin-to-skin contact with the infant on treated areas. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist.
Yes — This product is fungal acne safe. The formula contains zero fatty acids (C11–C24), esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, research suggests adapalene may actively create an inhospitable environment for Malassezia by normalizing keratinization and reducing sebum secretion. It's one of the cleanest retinoid options available for those managing pityrosporum folliculitis.
Use caution with other actives. Do not layer additional retinoids (retinol, tretinoin) on top of adapalene 0.3% — this can cause severe irritation. Vitamin C can be used in the AM while adapalene is used in the PM. AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) should be introduced slowly and alternated on different nights, not used simultaneously, especially during the first 8 weeks of adapalene use. Benzoyl peroxide can be safely combined with adapalene (adapalene is uniquely stable with BPO, unlike tretinoin).
Adapalene 0.3% Gel works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The lightweight, oil-free gel formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should buffer with moisturizer and may need to start with every-other-night application. It is specifically FDA-approved for acne vulgaris in patients aged 12 and older.
Expect visible improvement within 8–12 weeks of consistent nightly use. The first 2–4 weeks may involve purging (temporary worsening) as existing microcomedones surface. Most clinical trial participants showed significant acne reduction by week 12, with 75% achieving a 2+ grade improvement on the Investigator's Global Assessment scale. If no results are seen after 12 weeks, consult your prescribing doctor to re-evaluate treatment.
Apply in the evening only: (1) Cleanse with a gentle, non-medicated cleanser. (2) Wait until skin is completely dry (20–30 min). (3) Apply a thin film of Adapalene 0.3% to the entire face and affected areas. (4) Follow with moisturizer. In the morning, apply SPF 30+ sunscreen. Do not apply adapalene in the morning or before sun exposure.
No — this gel has a comedogenic rating of 1/5. With only 9 ingredients and an oil-free, silicone-free aqueous base, it is very unlikely to clog pores. In fact, adapalene is a comedolytic agent, meaning it actively works to unclog existing pores and prevent new comedones from forming. This is one of the cleanest retinoid formulations available.
The product is stable for approximately 12 months after opening when stored at controlled room temperature (68°–77°F / 20°–25°C). Always check the expiration date printed on the carton and tube. Protect from freezing and extreme heat. The sealed tube has a longer shelf life — refer to the printed expiration date for unopened product.
Verdict: Taro Adapalene 0.3% Gel is a highly effective, prescription-strength retinoid backed by robust Phase III clinical data showing significant superiority over the OTC 0.1% concentration. Its ultra-clean 9-ingredient formula makes it one of the most minimal and fungal-acne-friendly retinoid options on the market. The trade-offs are typical of potent retinoids — an adjustment period with dryness and purging, mandatory sunscreen use, and pregnancy contraindication. For those with moderate to severe acne who have outgrown OTC adapalene, this Taro generic offers proven prescription efficacy from a trusted pharmaceutical manufacturer at a competitive price point. Best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. A strong choice for anyone seeking a step-up retinoid without jumping to tretinoin.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 2 |
Poloxamer 124
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|