Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads
Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads
Product Description
Product overview
Alcohol-free brightening treatment pads with 10% glycolic acid and a proprietary 2% LTN Complex (lotus seed extract, tranexamic acid, niacinamide) that targets six melanin pathways to exfoliate, reduce dark spots, and reveal visibly brighter, more even-toned skin. Clinically tested on all skin tones and Fitzpatrick types.
10% Glycolic Acid Exfoliation
Dissolves surface buildup of dead skin cells to smooth uneven texture and prep skin for better product absorption.
Texture & feel
SENSORY10% Glycolic Acid Exfoliation
Dissolves surface buildup of dead skin cells to smooth uneven texture and prep skin for better product absorption.
Proprietary 2% LTN Complex
Patent-pending blend of lotus seed extract, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide targeting six melanin pathways for comprehensive brightening.
Soothing Botanicals
Oat bran extract, witch hazel water, and licorice root derivative calm and balance skin to minimize irritation from exfoliation.
Dual Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliation from glycolic acid combined with gentle physical exfoliation from the textured pad surface for thorough resurfacing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 10% glycolic acid, which is the upper threshold considered generally safe topically during pregnancy by ACOG. However, at this concentration, caution is advised. Consult your OB-GYN before use. Considered safe during breastfeeding per LactMed, as minimal systemic absorption is expected.
Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne or those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rated 1/5. No heavy oils, silicones, or pore-clogging emollients. The water-based, pad-delivery format minimizes residue buildup on skin.
Glycolic acid (AHA) increases skin's sensitivity to UV damage. Sunscreen with SPF 30+ is mandatory during use and for one week after discontinuation.
Formulated without hydroquinone or retinol, making it suitable for long-term daily use without risk of ochronosis or retinoid dermatitis.
Proven safe and effective across all Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI) and multiple ethnicities in clinical studies.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 10%Proven
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), penetrating deeply to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells for effective chemical exfoliation. At 10%, it significantly improves texture, tone, and radiance.
- Mechanism: Disrupts corneocyte cohesion in the stratum corneum, accelerating cell turnover and revealing fresh skin beneath.
- Clinical Data: Multiple studies confirm 10% glycolic acid reduces hyperpigmentation, improves acne, and stimulates collagen production with consistent use over 12 weeks.
- pH-Dependent: Effectiveness depends on formulation pH; lower pH = stronger exfoliation. SkinMedica formulates with sodium hydroxide to buffer to an effective yet tolerable pH.
Tranexamic Acid Part of 2% LTNProven
A synthetic amino acid derivative originally used to reduce bleeding, now a rising star in dermatology for treating melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation without the risks of hydroquinone.
- Mechanism: Inhibits plasmin activity, which reduces UV-induced melanocyte stimulation and decreases melanin transfer to keratinocytes.
- Clinical Data: Studies show topical tranexamic acid at 2–5% significantly reduces melasma severity index scores comparable to hydroquinone 4% with fewer side effects.
- Synergy: Works exceptionally well alongside niacinamide and glycolic acid for multi-pathway brightening.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Part of 2% LTNProven
A versatile, well-researched ingredient that addresses multiple skin concerns simultaneously, from brightening to barrier repair to oil regulation.
- Mechanism: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, reducing visible pigmentation. Also increases ceramide synthesis for a stronger skin barrier.
- Clinical Data: At 4–5% concentration, proven to reduce dark spots, improve fine lines, decrease yellowing of skin, and reduce sebum production.
- Compatibility: Pairs well with glycolic acid and tranexamic acid; no significant interactions or irritation concerns.
Nelumbo Nucifera (Lotus Seed) Germ Extract Ultra-concentratedPromising
The proprietary "LSE" in SkinMedica's LTN Complex. Sacred lotus seed extract is rich in antioxidants and has emerging evidence for its skin-brightening and anti-aging properties.
- Mechanism: Contains flavonoids and polyphenols that help regulate tyrosinase activity (a key enzyme in melanin production) and provide antioxidant protection.
- SkinMedica Research: SkinMedica claims their ultra-concentrated lotus seed extract addresses skin discoloration as part of their six-pathway approach to the melanin lifecycle.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract SoothingProven
A naturally soothing botanical that calms irritation, redness, and sensitivity from the glycolic acid exfoliation, helping improve tolerability of the treatment pads.
- Mechanism: Contains avenanthramides and beta-glucans that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, reinforcing the skin barrier.
- Clinical Data: Oat derivatives are FDA-recognized skin protectants, commonly used in dermatological formulations for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root) Soothing / BrighteningProven
A derivative of licorice root with dual anti-inflammatory and mild skin-brightening properties. Helps calm redness and supports the overall brightening action of the formula.
- Mechanism: Inhibits cyclooxygenase activity to reduce inflammation and has mild tyrosinase-inhibiting properties to support even skin tone.
- Benefit: Acts as both a humectant and a soothing agent, adding comfort to an exfoliation-focused product.
18 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Betaine, Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Nelumbo Nucifera Germ Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Gluconate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Benzoic Acid, Propanediol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing and before applying serums or treatment products. Allow skin to dry fully before layering. Can be used AM and/or PM. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use your preferred gentle cleanser and pat dry thoroughly before applying the treatment pad.
Wipe Pad Over Face
Remove one pad from the jar and gently wipe it over your entire face and neck using the textured side. Avoid the eye area. Use light, even pressure.
Allow to Dry
Let the solution absorb and dry completely on the skin (30–60 seconds). Do not rinse off. A slight tingling sensation is normal, especially during the first few uses.
Continue Your Routine
Once dry, layer your serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Start with once daily and increase to twice daily (AM + PM) as tolerated. Pro tip: cut pads in half to extend the jar.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with dull, uneven skin tone or dark spots
- You want to fade hyperpigmentation or melasma without hydroquinone
- You need a simple exfoliation step that preps skin for better product absorption
- You prefer a quick, mess-free treatment pad format over liquid exfoliants
- You want a product clinically tested on all skin tones and ethnicities
- You are looking for a retinol-free brightening solution
Consider alternatives if:
- Your skin is extremely sensitive or reactive to any acids
- You have active fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- You are already using strong prescription retinoids nightly and cannot tolerate additional exfoliation
- You need a budget-friendly option (at $1/pad, there are cheaper glycolic pads available)
- You are pregnant and want to err on the side of maximum caution with AHAs
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGlycolic acid helps control excess oil and refine pores. The alcohol-free, lightweight liquid formula leaves no greasy residue.
Betaine and niacinamide provide some hydration, but follow up with a rich moisturizer. Start slowly to avoid over-exfoliation on dry skin.
Balances well across oily T-zone and drier cheeks. The pad format allows you to adjust pressure by zone for customized exfoliation.
At 10% glycolic acid, this may be too potent for very reactive skin. Oat extract and licorice derivative help soothe, but patch test first and start 2–3 times per week.
Glycolic acid unclogs pores and improves post-acne marks. Low comedogenic rating (1/5). However, not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8–12+Immediate Glow & Smoothness
Skin feels noticeably smoother after the first use. Mild exfoliation reveals a brighter, more refined texture. Slight tingling is normal as skin acclimates to glycolic acid.
85% noticed instant smoothnessImproved Texture & Pore Refinement
Cell turnover accelerates. Skin texture becomes visibly more even, pores appear smaller, and blackheads begin to diminish. Products absorb better after pad use.
70% saw texture improvementVisible Brightening & Dark Spot Fading
The LTN Complex kicks in alongside consistent glycolic exfoliation. Dark spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and overall dullness begin to fade noticeably.
65% reported brighter, more even toneSignificant Hyperpigmentation Correction
Cumulative results show significant reduction in melasma severity, sun spots, and uneven tone. Best results achieved with consistent daily use and diligent sunscreen application.
60% saw significant dark spot reductionRatings by platform
430+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective 10% glycolic acid for visible exfoliation and brightening
- Unique LTN Complex with tranexamic acid for multi-pathway dark spot treatment
- Hydroquinone-free and retinol-free for safer long-term use
- Alcohol-free and fragrance-free formula, well-tolerated by most skin types
- Convenient pad format — quick and mess-free application
- Textured pads provide both chemical and physical exfoliation
- Clinically proven across all Fitzpatrick skin types and ethnicities
- Pads stay saturated through the entire jar
Criticized
- Premium price at $60 for 60 pads ($1.00 per treatment)
- Can cause tingling and stickiness, especially during initial use
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20)
- 10% glycolic may be too strong for very sensitive skin
- Some users feel effects are more like a toner than a treatment
- Requires diligent sunscreen use due to increased photosensitivity
- Brightening results take 4–8 weeks of consistent use to become visible
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lower glycolic acid concentration (7% vs 10%) in a liquid toner format rather than pads. Lacks the LTN Complex (no tranexamic acid or lotus extract). Still effective for basic exfoliation and brightening at a fraction of the cost. Apply with a cotton pad yourself.
Contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, and niacinamide in a pad format. No tranexamic acid or lotus extract. Stronger multi-acid approach but less refined for brightening-specific concerns. More irritation potential for sensitive skin.
Hypoallergenic exfoliating pads designed for wrinkles and skin tone. Gentler formula without tranexamic acid or the concentrated brightening complex. Good entry-level option for sensitive skin types that want mild resurfacing.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Peel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature 15°–30°C (59°–86°F). Keep jar tightly sealed to prevent pads from drying out. Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Sealed jar with screw-top lid containing 60 pre-soaked textured pads. Ample solution keeps pads saturated through the bottom of the jar.
Jar format is TSA-compliant for carry-on. Compact and lightweight, no risk of liquid spills. Convenient for on-the-go skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy. The pads contain 10% glycolic acid, which is at the upper limit of what ACOG considers generally safe for topical use during pregnancy (recommended ≤10%). There are no retinoids or hydroquinone. However, glycolic acid peels at professional strengths are contraindicated during pregnancy, and this is a higher-concentration consumer product. Consult your OB-GYN before use. For breastfeeding, glycolic acid is considered safe per the LactMed database, as minimal amounts are absorbed systemically. Avoid applying to areas in direct contact with the infant.
No. The formula contains Polysorbate 20, which is a polysorbate ester known to feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you are prone to or currently experiencing fungal acne, consider alternatives that are free from polysorbates, fatty acids, and esters. The glycolic acid and other actives themselves are fungal acne safe, but the overall formula is not.
Use caution when layering with other actives. Since these pads already contain 10% glycolic acid (a potent AHA), avoid using additional AHA/BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can be used in a separate routine — for example, vitamin C serum in the AM and pads in the PM. Retinol can be alternated on different nights or used on the same night if your skin is well-acclimatized, but start slowly. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency of one or both products.
These pads are excellent for oily, combination, and normal skin types that want to address dullness, uneven tone, and hyperpigmentation. They also work well for acne-prone skin (low comedogenic rating of 1/5). Dry skin types can use them but should follow with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin should start with 2–3 times per week and build up gradually, as 10% glycolic acid may be irritating for very reactive skin.
Immediate smoothness and glow can be noticed after the first use. Texture improvement and pore refinement typically become visible within 2–4 weeks. For significant brightening and dark spot fading, expect 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use. Maximum results for hyperpigmentation and melasma are generally seen at 8–12 weeks. Results are enhanced with consistent sunscreen use (SPF 30+).
Use the pads as Step 2, immediately after cleansing and before applying any serums, moisturizers, or sunscreen. Wipe the pad over your face, let it dry completely (30–60 seconds), then proceed with the rest of your routine. Can be used both morning and evening. Always apply sunscreen SPF 30+ as the final morning step.
Very low comedogenic risk, rated 1 out of 5. The formula is water-based with no heavy oils, waxes, or silicones that typically clog pores. In fact, the glycolic acid actively helps unclog pores by dissolving dead skin cell buildup. The pad format means minimal product residue remains on the skin, further reducing comedogenic potential.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The jar is designed to keep pads saturated throughout use — multiple reviewers confirm the last pads are just as wet as the first. Store at room temperature (15°–30°C / 59°–86°F) with the lid tightly sealed. If using one pad daily, the jar lasts 60 days; if cutting pads in half (a popular tip), it can last up to 120 days.
Verdict: SkinMedica Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads are a well-formulated, medical-grade exfoliating treatment that stands out from competitors thanks to its unique combination of 10% glycolic acid with the proprietary LTN Complex (tranexamic acid + niacinamide + lotus seed extract). The alcohol-free, fragrance-free, hydroquinone-free formula makes it suitable for long-term daily use across all skin tones. While the $60 price point is premium, the multi-pathway approach to brightening and the clinical backing from SkinMedica (AbbVie) justify the investment for those serious about treating hyperpigmentation, melasma, and uneven tone without harsh ingredients. The only notable drawbacks are the Polysorbate 20 (not fungal acne safe) and the 10% glycolic concentration that may be too intense for very sensitive skin. For anyone seeking a convenient, effective, and well-tolerated brightening treatment in a pad format, this is one of the best options on the market.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|