Alpha Beta® Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum
Alpha Beta® Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A silicone-free, dermatologist-developed pore-treating serum with 7 AHA/BHA acids, farnesol, and phytic acid that minimizes the look of pores, dissolves waxy buildup, and delivers a flawless filtered effect without shine. Clinically shown to improve pore appearance in just 3 days.
Pore-Perfecting Complex
Farnesol, adipic acid, agarikon mushroom, and prickly pear dissolve waxy buildup within pore walls and flush away impurities for an instant filtered look.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPore-Perfecting Complex
Farnesol, adipic acid, agarikon mushroom, and prickly pear dissolve waxy buildup within pore walls and flush away impurities for an instant filtered look.
7 Alpha Beta Acids
A proprietary blend of glycolic, salicylic, lactic, mandelic, malic, citric acids, and willow bark extract that exfoliates both surface and within pores.
Silicone-Free Blurring
Adipic acid creates a smoothing, pore-filling effect without silicones, so you get a filtered finish that actually treats pores instead of just masking them.
Antibacterial Protection
Farnesol and salicylic acid inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria while clearing existing blockages, helping to prevent future breakouts and blackheads.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains retinol and salicylic acid, both of which are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
Contains Polysorbate 80, Polysorbate 20, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Isopropyl Jojobate which can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne.
Mostly non-comedogenic ingredients. The lightweight liquid formula is designed to clear pores rather than clog them. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare is certified cruelty-free and all products are vegan. No animal testing at any stage of development.
Multiple AHAs and BHA may cause sensitivity in some users. Start every other day and build to daily use. Always wear SPF during the day as acids increase sun sensitivity.
Free from parabens, silicones, formaldehydes, phthalates, mineral oil, coal tar, and sulfates (SLS & SLES). Formulated by a board-certified dermatologist.
Low concentration of retinol provides anti-aging benefits but may cause purging in first 2-4 weeks. Avoid combining with other retinoid products.
Includes lavender extract and bergamot fruit oil. Those with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivities should patch test before full application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (BHA)Proven
The gold standard BHA for pore treatment. Oil-soluble, so it penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, reduce blackheads, and calm inflammation. Also has antibacterial properties.
- Mechanism: Penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within, dissolving waxy buildup and dead skin cells that cause blackheads
- Clinical Evidence: Extensively studied for acne and pore treatment; shown to reduce comedones by 40-60% in 8-12 weeks at 2% concentration
- Anti-inflammatory: Structurally related to aspirin, providing potent anti-inflammatory action that reduces redness around blemishes
Glycolic Acid (AHA)Proven
The most researched and potent AHA. Water-soluble exfoliant that works on the skin surface to lift dead cells, reveal brighter skin, and boost collagen production at higher concentrations.
- Mechanism: Breaks the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, accelerating cell turnover and improving skin texture
- Collagen Boost: At concentrations above 10%, proven to stimulate collagen synthesis for firmer skin over time
- Brightening: Reduces hyperpigmentation by promoting exfoliation of melanin-containing cells
FarnesolProven
A naturally-derived antibacterial agent found in plants like citronella and neroli. Targets acne-causing bacteria and helps dissolve waxy buildup within pores for clearer skin.
- Antibacterial: Inhibits growth of P. acnes and other bacteria on skin surface and within pores
- Pore Clearing: Works synergistically with AHAs/BHA to flush impurities from deep within pore walls
- Fragrance Note: Also classified as a fragrance ingredient with a sweet floral scent; may be sensitizing for some
Mandelic Acid (AHA)Proven
A gentle AHA derived from bitter almonds. Larger molecular size means slower penetration and less irritation compared to glycolic acid, while still providing antibacterial and exfoliating benefits.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Larger molecular weight makes it less likely to cause stinging or irritation, ideal for sensitive-leaning skin
- Antibacterial: Has natural antibacterial properties that help reduce acne-causing bacteria
- Hyperpigmentation: Effective at improving dark spots, especially in darker skin tones where glycolic acid may be too aggressive
Retinol Low %Proven
Vitamin A derivative and the most extensively studied anti-aging ingredient. Accelerates cell turnover, boosts collagen production, and helps regulate oil production for refined pores over time.
- Cell Turnover: Speeds up skin renewal cycle, helping to keep pores clear and skin smooth
- Anti-Aging: Proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin firmness, and even out skin tone
- Oil Regulation: Helps normalize keratinization and reduce sebum production for less oily, less congested skin
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular weight for deeper skin penetration. Acts as a moisture magnet, attracting up to 1000x its weight in water to keep skin hydrated and plump.
- Deep Hydration: Smaller molecules penetrate further into skin than standard HA, providing hydration at multiple levels
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin barrier function even while using exfoliating acids
Fomes Officinalis (Agarikon Mushroom) ExtractPromising
A rare medicinal mushroom extract that helps control shine, reduce inflammation, and firm the skin to make pores appear smaller. Part of the serum's unique Pore-Perfecting Complex.
- Mattifying: Helps regulate sebum production and control excess shine throughout the day
- Skin Firming: Tightens skin around pores, making them appear visibly smaller
Phytic Acid & Pentasodium PentetatePromising
Chelating agents that dissolve the waxy sebaceous plugs deep within pore walls. They bind to mineral deposits and oils, flushing out debris that keeps pores stretched and enlarged.
- Deep Pore Cleansing: Targets and dissolves the hardened sebum plugs that cause persistent enlarged pores and blackheads
- Antioxidant: Phytic acid also acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect skin from environmental damage
42 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Propylene Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Glycerin, Polysorbate 80, Butylene Glycol, Mandelic Acid, Carnitine HCl, Salicylic Acid, Farnesol, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Adipic Acid, Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Phytic Acid, Siraitia Grosvenorii Fruit Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Bisabolol, Pentasodium Pentetate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hexylresorcinol, Quercetin, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Panthenol, Urea, Isopropyl Jojobate, Jojoba Alcohol, Jojoba Esters, Retinol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Hydroxide, Octoxynol-9, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEFor best results, use after the Alpha Beta Daily Peel. Apply to clean, dry skin before moisturizer. Use AM and/or PM. Always follow with SPF during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Start with clean, dry skin. Pat face dry after cleansing. If using the Alpha Beta Daily Peel, apply the serum after completing both peel steps.
Dispense 3-4 Drops
Use the dropper to dispense 3-4 drops into your palm. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply & Massage
Gently massage the serum onto your face and neck using upward strokes. Can be used as an all-over treatment or as a targeted spot treatment on pore-prone areas like the nose and cheeks.
Let It Absorb
Allow 1-2 minutes for the serum to fully absorb before layering moisturizer and sunscreen. Works beautifully under makeup as a pore-blurring primer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have enlarged or visible pores, especially on nose and cheeks
- Blackheads and congestion are persistent concerns
- You want a silicone-free pore blurring effect under makeup
- You prefer clinically-tested, dermatologist-developed formulas
- Oily or combination skin that needs oil control without dryness
- You want both instant cosmetic results and long-term treatment benefits
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinol and salicylic acid)
- You have fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
- Your skin is very dry and easily dehydrated by acids
- You are already using strong retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) and multiple acids
- Budget is a priority and $65/oz is outside your range
- You are highly sensitive to botanical extracts or fragrance components
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Controls excess oil, shrinks pore appearance, and mattifies without stripping. The silicone-free formula treats pores rather than just masking them.
Great for T-zone oil control without drying out cheeks. Can be used as a spot treatment on oilier zones or all over. Lightweight enough for daily use.
Works well for maintaining smooth texture and preventing blackheads. The acids provide gentle exfoliation while hyaluronic acid and panthenol maintain hydration.
Multiple acids may feel drying. Start with every other day use and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Some dry skin users report the serum can feel tight.
Contains 7 active acids plus retinol and botanical extracts. Patch test recommended. In clinical trials, 100% of subjects agreed it was non-irritating, but proceed cautiously.
Salicylic acid and farnesol target acne bacteria and unclog pores effectively. Low comedogenic rating. Not suitable if you have fungal acne specifically.
Results timeline
8-12 WEEKSInstant Pore-Blurring Effect
Adipic acid smooths and fills in pore appearance for an instantly filtered look. Skin feels silky and refined right after application.
100% agreed serum absorbs quicklyVisible Pore Improvement
AHA/BHA acids begin dissolving surface buildup and accelerating cell turnover. Pores start to look noticeably smaller and more refined.
81% showed significant pore improvementClearer, Smoother Texture
Skin texture appears visibly clearer and smoother. Blackheads begin to diminish as farnesol and phytic acid dissolve deep pore buildup. Skin tone becomes more even.
86% agreed texture looked clearer and smootherReduced Blackheads & Oil Control
Consistent use leads to noticeably fewer blackheads. Oil production becomes more regulated. Retinol begins contributing anti-aging benefits. Some users may experience mild purging.
86% agreed overall pore look improvedLong-Term Transformation
Full results achieved with continued use. Pores appear significantly smaller, skin is clearer and more refined, and fine lines around pores are reduced. Ongoing use needed to maintain results.
86% agreed skin feels hydratedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible pore reduction in as little as 3 days (clinically proven)
- Silicone-free formula that treats pores while blurring them
- A little goes a long way; 3-4 drops covers entire face
- Works beautifully under makeup as a pore-blurring primer
- Dermatologist-developed with pharmaceutical-grade ingredients
- Effectively controls T-zone oil without over-drying
- Absorbs quickly with no sticky residue
- Reduces blackheads and prevents new ones from forming
Criticized
- Premium price ($65 for 1 oz) is a significant investment
- Can be drying for those with dry or very sensitive skin
- Some users see no improvement even after months of use
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe
- Not fungal acne safe due to polysorbates and esters
- Thin, watery consistency can feel insubstantial
- Results require consistent daily use to maintain
- Contains botanical fragrance ingredients (lavender, bergamot)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Focuses on salicylic acid (BHA) only at 2% concentration. Excellent for blackheads and pore clearing. Lacks the multi-acid AHA complex, farnesol, and pore-filling adipic acid, but is the gold standard BHA product. 4 oz bottle offers much better value per ml.
Extremely affordable BHA treatment targeting pores and blackheads. Uses squalane as a base rather than water. Simpler formula without the multi-acid blend, retinol, or pore-perfecting complex. Great entry point for those new to BHA.
Different mechanism: uses niacinamide to regulate sebum and reduce pore appearance rather than acids. Much gentler approach. No exfoliating acids or retinol. Pregnancy safe alternative. Ideal for those who want pore minimizing without chemical exfoliation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the dropper bottle tightly closed when not in use. Contains retinol which degrades with light exposure.
Glass dropper bottle with a pipette applicator for precise dispensing. Outer carton helps protect from light degradation.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Glass bottle, so pack carefully to prevent breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This serum contains both retinol and salicylic acid, which are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that has been linked to birth defects at high doses, and salicylic acid is generally advised against during pregnancy by most dermatologists. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your OB-GYN before use. Consider pregnancy-safe alternatives like niacinamide-based pore treatments instead.
No. This serum is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 80, Polysorbate 20, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Isopropyl Jojobate. If you have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), this product may worsen your condition. Look for FA-safe alternatives that avoid polysorbates, fatty acids, and esters.
This serum already contains retinol and multiple AHA/BHA acids, so layering additional retinoids or strong acids on top can increase the risk of irritation and over-exfoliation. According to Dr. Dennis Gross, the serum works well with the Alpha Beta Daily Peel (use the peel first, then the serum). Vitamin C can be used at a different time of day (e.g., vitamin C in the morning, this serum at night). If you are new to acids, start with this serum alone and gradually introduce other actives once your skin adjusts.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types. It excels at controlling oil production, shrinking pore appearance, and clearing blackheads. Those with dry or very sensitive skin may find the multiple acids too drying and should start with every-other-day application. In clinical trials, 100% of subjects agreed the serum was non-irritating, but individual experiences may vary.
In clinical trials, 81% of subjects showed significant improvement in pore appearance after just 3 days. By 1 week, 86% agreed their skin texture looked clearer and smoother. Most users report noticeable improvements within the first 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Full results for blackhead reduction and oil control typically develop over 4-8 weeks. Consistency is key; results diminish if you stop using the product.
Apply after cleansing and toning on clean, dry skin. If you use the Alpha Beta Daily Peel, apply this serum after completing both peel steps. Follow with your moisturizer and sunscreen (AM). This serum can be used both morning and evening. It also works well under makeup as a pore-blurring primer step.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is specifically designed to clear and unclog pores, not clog them. The formula is silicone-free and contains multiple pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid, phytic acid, and farnesol. However, as with any product, individual reactions can vary, and some users with very reactive skin have reported initial breakouts as part of a purging phase during the first 2-4 weeks.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. However, because it contains retinol, it is best used within 6-9 months of opening for maximum potency. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Many users report that using 3-4 drops per application, one bottle lasts several months even with daily use.
Verdict: The Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum is a powerful, clinically-backed treatment for anyone struggling with enlarged pores, blackheads, and oily skin. Its unique combination of 7 AHA/BHA acids, farnesol, and a silicone-free pore-filling complex delivers both instant cosmetic blurring and long-term pore treatment. The clinical data is impressive, with 81% of subjects seeing pore improvement in just 3 days. However, the premium price tag ($65/oz), the presence of retinol and salicylic acid (making it unsafe during pregnancy), and the fact that it's not fungal acne safe limit its audience. If enlarged pores and congestion are your primary concerns and you have oily to combination skin, this is one of the most effective targeted pore serums available. Budget-conscious shoppers may find similar (though less comprehensive) results with Paula's Choice BHA or The Ordinary Niacinamide.
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 7 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 7 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Polysorbate 80
Emulsifying
|
|