Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-based vitamin C serum by The Ordinary featuring 20% Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (a stable, oil-soluble derivative of vitamin C) combined with Vitamin F (Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids). Designed to brighten uneven skin tone, reduce visible signs of aging, and support the skin's natural hydration barrier without the irritation of pure L-ascorbic acid.
20% Oil-Soluble Vitamin C
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate penetrates three times deeper into skin than pure L-ascorbic acid, providing potent antioxidant protection with far less irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORY20% Oil-Soluble Vitamin C
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate penetrates three times deeper into skin than pure L-ascorbic acid, providing potent antioxidant protection with far less irritation.
Vitamin F Fatty Acids
Ethyl Linoleate delivers Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids that strengthen the skin's natural hydration barrier and lock in moisture.
Skin Brightening Formula
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate has been shown in vitro to reduce melanogenesis by over 80%, helping to visibly fade dark spots and even out skin tone over time.
Antioxidant Shield
Provides dual UVA and UVB antioxidant protection to help defend against environmental damage, pollution, and photo-aging caused by free radicals.
Clean, Minimal Formula
Only 7 ingredients — no water, fragrance, alcohol, silicone, parabens, or sulphates. Vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified by DECIEM.
Jojoba & Squalane Hydration
Jojoba Seed Oil mimics natural sebum while Squalane delivers featherlight moisture. Together they leave skin soft and supple without feeling heavy.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Vitamin C derivatives are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Coconut Alkanes, Ethyl Linoleate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, and Jojoba Seed Oil which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.
While oil-based, the formula uses lightweight emollients like Squalane and Coconut Alkanes that are generally well tolerated. Jojoba Oil has a comedogenic rating of 2. Suitable for most skin types.
Oil-soluble vitamin C is much gentler than direct L-ascorbic acid. Free from common allergens, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
The Ordinary recommends not combining this product with Niacinamide Powder or Serum in the same routine step, as it may reduce the effectiveness of both ingredients.
While vitamin C provides antioxidant support, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day when using this product to protect skin from UV damage.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCoconut AlkanesEmollient Base
A volatile, naturally derived vegetable alkane from renewable coconut sources. Acts as a lightweight, oily carrier that evaporates from the skin surface, leaving a smooth, silky finish without a heavy residue.
- Function: Emollient and solvent — creates a smooth application base and helps distribute active ingredients evenly across the skin.
- Source: Derived from coconut fatty acids through a sustainable refining process.
- Feel: Evaporates after application, so the final skin feel is lighter than expected from an oil-based product.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Ascorbate) 20%Proven
The star active ingredient — a stable, oil-soluble derivative of Vitamin C that penetrates up to three times deeper into skin than pure L-ascorbic acid. Once absorbed, it converts into active vitamin C within the skin layers to deliver brightening, anti-aging, and antioxidant benefits.
- Antioxidant: In vitro studies show it provides antioxidant protection against both UVA and UVB free radical damage.
- Collagen: Research indicates it stimulates collagen synthesis — potentially even more than pure ascorbic acid in certain conditions.
- Brightening: Demonstrated over 80% reduction in melanogenesis in human melanoma cell cultures, supporting visible dark spot fading.
- Stability: One of the most stable vitamin C derivatives — resistant to oxidation in oil-based formulations, with no pH dependency.
- Penetration: Oil-soluble structure allows it to travel through the skin's lipid layers (ceramides, cholesterol) to reach deeper tissue.
Ethyl Linoleate (Vitamin F)Barrier Support
An oil-soluble form of Vitamin F — specifically an ester of linoleic acid (Omega-6 fatty acid). Helps moisturize the skin and reinforce the lipid barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss.
- Function: Emollient that supports the skin's natural lipid barrier and helps retain moisture.
- Omega-6: Linoleic acid is an essential fatty acid the body cannot produce — topical application helps replenish what skin needs for healthy barrier function.
- Synergy: Pairs with the vitamin C derivative to provide both brightening and hydrating benefits in a single formula.
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateEmollient
A lightweight emollient ester derived from coconut fatty alcohol combined with caprylic and capric acids. Absorbs quickly and leaves a dry, silky finish on the skin.
- Function: Creates a thin, non-greasy moisture barrier on skin that helps prevent water loss without clogging pores.
- Texture: Provides the fast-absorbing, silky feel characteristic of this serum — helps it spread easily across the face.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil through a refining process that produces a lightweight, skin-compatible emollient.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilProven
A liquid wax ester from the jojoba desert shrub that closely mimics the skin's natural sebum. Non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and rich in fatty acids and vitamin E for deep nourishment.
- Sebum-mimicking: Jojoba oil's structure is nearly identical to human skin oil, making it exceptionally biocompatible and easily absorbed.
- Antioxidant: Rich in Vitamin E (tocopherols) which provides additional antioxidant protection and supports skin repair.
- Wound healing: Indigenous cultures have used jojoba for centuries as a moisturizer and to help treat burns and skin injuries.
- Sebum regulation: Research suggests it may help regulate excess sebum production over time, benefiting both dry and oily skin.
Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit ExtractAntioxidant
Extracted from ripe tomatoes, this ingredient is rich in lycopene — a powerful carotenoid antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color and provides additional protection against oxidative stress.
- Lycopene: One of nature's strongest antioxidants — helps neutralize free radicals and protect skin cells from environmental damage.
- Synergy: Works alongside vitamin C to provide layered antioxidant defense, enhancing overall photoprotective benefits.
- Glow factor: Users note that the tomato extract contributes to a natural, warm glow upon application.
SqualaneProven
A stable, hydrogenated form of squalene — a lipid naturally produced by human skin. Provides featherweight moisture, strengthens the skin barrier, and enhances the overall smoothness of the formula.
- Biocompatible: Squalane is naturally found in human sebum, making it one of the most compatible moisturizing ingredients for all skin types.
- Non-comedogenic: Despite being an oil-like substance, squalane is technically a hydrocarbon — it does not clog pores.
- Antioxidant: Provides additional antioxidant support and helps protect the skin's lipid barrier from oxidative damage.
- Plant-derived: The Ordinary's squalane is typically sourced from sugarcane, making it vegan and sustainable.
7 ingredients
Coconut Alkanes, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ethyl Linoleate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Squalane
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based serums and before creams. This is an oil-based treatment — use it in the "oil" step of your routine. Can be used AM and PM. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use your regular cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities. Pat dry gently with a clean towel.
Apply Water-Based Products First
If using any water-based toners, essences, or serums (like Hyaluronic Acid), apply them before this oil-based serum so they can absorb properly.
Dispense 3–4 Drops
Squeeze a few drops of the serum into your palms. The formula is very thin and fluid — a little goes a long way.
Press and Pat Onto Skin
Gently press the oil into your face, avoiding the eye contour area. Pat lightly to encourage absorption. Allow 2–3 minutes for full absorption.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Layer your moisturizer on top once absorbed. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry or normal skin and want a hydrating vitamin C
- Your skin is sensitive and irritated by pure L-ascorbic acid
- You want to brighten dull skin and fade dark spots gently
- You prefer a minimal, clean formula with few ingredients
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe vitamin C option
- You want antioxidant protection that doubles as a moisturizing oil
- You are new to vitamin C and want a non-irritating introduction
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You want maximum potency — pure L-ascorbic acid is more research-proven
- You have very oily skin and dislike any oil-based products
- You need fast, dramatic brightening results (derivatives work more slowly)
- You want to combine this with Niacinamide in the same step
- You prefer a completely matte, non-dewy finish
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match — the oil-based formula with Vitamin F, Jojoba, and Squalane delivers deep hydration while brightening. Specifically suited for dry skin by The Ordinary.
Absorbs beautifully and provides antioxidant benefits without disrupting the skin's natural balance. Leaves a healthy, glowing finish.
One of the gentlest vitamin C options available. Oil-soluble derivative means far less irritation than pure ascorbic acid. Fragrance-free and minimal formula.
Works well on dry areas; the thin oil texture absorbs without feeling heavy. May feel slightly dewy on the T-zone — use less product on oily areas.
The thin, lightweight oil is lighter than expected, but oily skin types may prefer a water-based vitamin C. Some users report no greasiness; others find it too dewy.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5) but oil-based formula may not suit all acne-prone individuals. Not fungal acne safe. Patch test recommended.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Improved Hydration & Softness
Skin feels immediately softer, smoother, and more supple after each application. The oil-based formula provides a noticeable boost in surface moisture and a healthy, dewy glow.
80% noticed softer skinSubtle Brightening Begins
Overall complexion starts to look more radiant and even. Users begin to notice a warm, healthy glow. Dullness visibly decreases as vitamin C accumulates in the skin.
60% noticed brighter toneDark Spots Begin to Fade
With consistent twice-daily use, hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory marks start to lighten. Skin tone appears more uniform. Fine lines may appear slightly softened.
50% noticed spot fadingAnti-Aging & Firmness Benefits
Collagen-boosting effects become more apparent with prolonged use. Fine lines and wrinkles appear reduced. Skin feels firmer and more resilient. Full brightening potential reached.
45% noticed firmer skinRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — no stinging, tingling, or irritation even on sensitive skin
- Lightweight, thin oil texture that absorbs without feeling greasy
- Only 7 clean ingredients — minimal, transparent formula
- Provides a beautiful, healthy glow and dewy finish immediately
- Stable formula — doesn't oxidize quickly like pure vitamin C serums
- Can be used morning and evening for consistent antioxidant protection
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe vitamin C option
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from most common irritants
Criticized
- Not as potent as pure L-ascorbic acid — results are more gradual
- Pricey for The Ordinary at ~$20 for 30ml vs. their other vitamin C options
- Thin, watery oil can be tricky to apply — may run between fingers
- Some users report pilling when layered with certain products
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Absorption takes 2–3 minutes — not instant
- Limited in-vivo clinical studies on THD Ascorbate specifically
- No vitamin E or ferulic acid to boost stability and potency
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses pure L-ascorbic acid at 23% — more potent but also more irritating. Water-free silicone suspension texture is gritty. Much cheaper but very different feel and may cause stinging on sensitive skin.
A water-soluble vitamin C derivative (12%) that is gentler and lighter. Better for oily skin but lacks the oil-based hydration and deeper penetration. Different texture — watery, not oily.
Uses Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a different vitamin C derivative) with added Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Botanical HA. Water-based texture. More suitable for oily skin but lacks the deep-penetrating oil-soluble benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Vitamin C oils should be used within this timeframe for maximum efficacy. Write the opening date on your bottle.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is not required but can help extend stability. Shelf life is 3 years when unopened and stored at room temperature.
UV-protective amber glass dropper bottle. The tinted glass helps shield the formula from light degradation, maintaining vitamin C stability over time.
Yes — 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Glass bottle, so pack carefully in a cushioned pouch to prevent breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This product does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients commonly flagged during pregnancy. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C derivative) is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Multiple pregnancy-safe skincare databases list this product as approved. However, always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast: Coconut Alkanes, Ethyl Linoleate (a fatty acid ester), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, and Jojoba Seed Oil. If you have active pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), consider The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% or a squalane-only based vitamin C as safer alternatives.
Yes to most combinations. You can use this with retinol (apply retinol at night, this product AM or PM). You can layer it with other vitamin C products, though it's unnecessary. It pairs well with AHAs and BHAs — apply acids first (water-based), then this oil on top. The main conflict to avoid is Niacinamide powder or serum in the same routine step, as The Ordinary advises against combining them. You can use Niacinamide at a different time of day.
This product is best suited for dry, normal, and sensitive skin types. The Ordinary specifically recommends it for dry skin due to its oil-based format with Vitamin F fatty acids, Jojoba Oil, and Squalane. It is one of the gentlest vitamin C options available, making it excellent for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate L-ascorbic acid. Oily skin types may find it too dewy, though many report it absorbs well due to its thin texture.
Hydration and softness are noticeable within the first 1–2 weeks. Subtle brightening typically begins around week 3–4 with consistent use. Dark spot fading and more visible tone evening generally require 6–8 weeks of twice-daily application. Anti-aging benefits like fine line reduction need 3+ months of continuous use. Because this is a vitamin C derivative (not pure ascorbic acid), results develop more gradually but with less irritation.
As an oil-based serum, it goes after all water-based products and before heavier creams. The recommended order is: Cleanser, Toner, Water-based serums (Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, etc.), this product, Moisturizer, then Sunscreen (AM). You can also apply it directly after cleansing if you prefer a simpler routine. It can be used both morning and evening.
The overall comedogenic rating is approximately 2 out of 5 — low to moderate risk. The individual ingredients are generally non-comedogenic: Squalane and Coconut Alkanes are lightweight, and Jojoba Oil (rated 2) mimics natural sebum. However, because it is an oil-based formula, individuals who are extremely prone to clogged pores should patch test first. The formula is much lighter than it sounds — most users report no breakout issues.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 6 months. The Ordinary recommends using vitamin C oils within 6 months of opening for best results. Unopened, it has a shelf life of up to 3 years when stored at room temperature. The amber glass bottle provides UV protection to help maintain stability, but store it away from direct sunlight and heat. If the oil changes color significantly or develops an unusual smell, it may have oxidized and should be replaced.
Verdict: The Ordinary Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a gentle, hydrating vitamin C that won't irritate sensitive skin. With only 7 clean ingredients and a stable, oil-soluble formula, it offers solid antioxidant protection, gradual brightening, and meaningful hydration — especially for dry skin types. While it won't deliver the dramatic, fast-acting results of pure L-ascorbic acid, its exceptional tolerability, pregnancy-safe profile, and minimal formula make it a standout in its category. At $20.50 for 30ml, it's pricier than other The Ordinary options but still a fraction of comparable luxury vitamin C oils like Sunday Riley C.E.O. ($85). Best for: sensitive skin, dry skin, vitamin C beginners, and anyone who values a clean, no-fuss approach to brightening.
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):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Coconut Alkanes
Solvent, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Redness
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Ethyl Linoleate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|