Fade Away Brightening Serum
Fade Away Brightening Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-approved brightening serum that targets hyperpigmentation at its source using a powerful trio of alpha arbutin, kojic acid, and licorice root extract to fade dark spots and even skin tone — without hydroquinone. Enriched with glutathione, red algae, and 14 botanical extracts for comprehensive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection.
Triple Tyrosinase Inhibitor Complex
Alpha arbutin, kojic acid, and licorice root extract work together to block the enzyme responsible for melanin overproduction, fading dark spots at the source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Tyrosinase Inhibitor Complex
Alpha arbutin, kojic acid, and licorice root extract work together to block the enzyme responsible for melanin overproduction, fading dark spots at the source.
Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Shield
Glutathione, red algae extract, and over 40 phyto-compounds from 14 botanical extracts help prevent future hyperpigmentation from forming.
Hydrating Base with Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium hyaluronate and glycerin attract and retain moisture while the actives go to work, keeping skin plump and comfortable.
Safe Hydroquinone Alternative
Delivers comparable brightening results to hydroquinone without the safety concerns, making it suitable for long-term daily use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThe brand states it can be used during pregnancy, but recommends consulting your doctor. Some dermatologists advise against alpha arbutin as it can hydrolyze into trace amounts of hydroquinone under UV exposure, though the amount is considered insignificant.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne.
All Maelove products are formulated for sensitive skin. Start with 2-3 times per week and gradually increase to daily use. Patch testing is still recommended for very reactive skin.
Free from retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, and chemical sunscreens. Safe for long-term daily use without cycling off.
Kojic acid can increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day when using this serum to protect results and prevent further pigmentation.
Vegan, cruelty-free, and manufactured in an FDA-registered, cGMP-compliant, ISO 22716-certified lab in the USA. Free from parabens, phthalates, dyes, and artificial fragrances.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAlpha-Arbutin ~2%Proven
A plant-derived tyrosinase inhibitor sourced from bearberry, cranberry, and blueberry plants. Considered a safer, gentler alternative to hydroquinone for targeting dark spots and uneven skin tone.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity to slow melanin production in overactive melanocytes.
- Efficacy: Effective at concentrations of 1-2% for fading sun spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and melasma.
- Stability: Highly stable in water-based formulations when the pH is optimized (this formula is pH-optimized).
Kojic Acid ~1-2%Proven
A fungi-derived brightening agent produced during the fermentation of rice and soy. One of the most potent tyrosinase inhibitors available over the counter, and it also offers antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
- Mechanism: Chelates copper at the active site of tyrosinase, blocking melanin synthesis more aggressively than alpha arbutin alone.
- Research: A 2015 study found kojic acid was the most effective of several tyrosinase inhibitors on human melanoma cells.
- Bonus: Antifungal and antibacterial properties can also help with acne-prone skin.
Licorice Root ExtractProven
A skincare superstar with dual brightening and soothing properties. The active compound glabridin inhibits tyrosinase while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits to help calm irritated skin.
- Research: Topical application of 0.5% glabridin was shown to inhibit UVB-induced pigmentation in studies.
- Comparison: Some research suggests licorice root extract may be as effective as hydroquinone with significantly fewer side effects.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains licochalcone A, glycyrrhizin, and other compounds that soothe redness and irritation.
Glutathione (L)Promising
A powerful tripeptide antioxidant naturally produced by cells. In skincare, topical glutathione has been shown to help brighten skin and reduce melanin production while neutralizing free radicals.
- Mechanism: Inhibits melanin synthesis and converts dark eumelanin to lighter pheomelanin, contributing to an overall brighter skin tone.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals that contribute to UV-induced pigmentation and premature aging.
Corallina Officinalis (Red Algae) ExtractPromising
A marine extract rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that have not yet been fully identified by science. Helps attract moisture to skin while providing environmental protection.
- Hydration: Acts as a humectant, drawing water to the upper skin layer for improved moisture retention.
- Protection: Contains marine compounds tested for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity that help prevent future pigmentation.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~1%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, known for its ability to bind up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides deep hydration while the active brightening ingredients work on pigmentation concerns.
- Hydration: Penetrates more effectively than hyaluronic acid due to its smaller molecular size, delivering hydration to deeper skin layers.
- Support: Maintains skin plumpness and supports the skin barrier, allowing brightening actives to work more effectively.
35 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Alpha-Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Amber Powder, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Oil, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Flower Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Glutathione (L), Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Gluconate, Sclerotium Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tropolone, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and/or PM. Layer from thinnest to thickest texture, waiting a full minute between products. Maelove recommends using Fade Away after their Glow Maker Vitamin C Serum for enhanced brightening results.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean, dry face. If using toner or vitamin C serum, apply those first and wait one minute for absorption.
Apply a Thin Layer
Dispense a small amount and apply a thin, even layer to face, neck, and chest. Gently massage until fully absorbed (about 60 seconds).
Lock In & Protect
Follow with a gentle moisturizer to lock in the serum. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Start Slow
Begin with 2-3 applications per week, gradually increasing to daily use as your skin adjusts. Can be layered with other serums once tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dark spots, sun spots, or post-acne marks you want to fade
- You suffer from melasma or hormonal hyperpigmentation
- You want a hydroquinone-free brightening solution safe for long-term use
- You prefer layering lightweight serums in your routine
- You want a formula backed by dermatologists with botanical ingredients
- You have normal, dry, oily, or combination skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (formula contains oils and Polysorbate 20)
- You need immediate, dramatic results (this works gradually over weeks)
- You are on a very tight budget (more affordable options exist)
- You are extremely sensitive to kojic acid or witch hazel
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products (has subtle herbal scent from botanicals)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWater-based liquigel absorbs quickly without adding greasiness. Kojic acid also has antimicrobial properties that benefit oily, acne-prone skin.
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin provide hydration, but dry skin types will need a richer moisturizer on top to lock in moisture.
Lightweight texture layers well across different face zones without overwhelming oily areas or neglecting dry patches.
Formulated for sensitive skin with soothing botanicals. Start slow (2-3x per week) and patch test first, as kojic acid may cause mild tingling initially.
Low comedogenic rating and antibacterial kojic acid are beneficial. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to oils and polysorbate content.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSImproved Hydration & Glow
Skin feels more hydrated and appears slightly brighter due to the hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and botanical antioxidants. Surface texture begins to smooth.
70% noticed improved hydrationVisible Spot Fading Begins
Dark spots and post-acne marks start to lighten noticeably as the tyrosinase inhibitors reduce melanin overproduction. Overall skin tone appears more even.
60% noticed fading dark spotsSignificant Brightening & Evening
Stubborn hyperpigmentation and melasma show significant improvement. Skin tone is noticeably more even and radiant. Continued use maintains and improves results.
80% reported clearer, more even complexionLong-Term Maintenance
With consistent daily use and proper sun protection, results continue to build. Unlike hydroquinone, there is no need to cycle off. Preventive antioxidants help stop new spots from forming.
85% would repurchaseRatings by platform
860+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective at fading dark spots and melasma without hydroquinone
- Triple tyrosinase inhibitor approach for comprehensive brightening
- Safe for long-term daily use with no need to cycle off
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture layers well with other products
- Enriched with 14 botanical extracts for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support
- Dermatologist-approved, vegan, cruelty-free, made in FDA-registered lab
- Award-winning: Best Serum for Hyperpigmentation (The Everygirl)
- 100-day free return shipping from the brand
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe due to oils and polysorbate content
- Small 30ml bottle for $39.95 may feel expensive per ounce
- Results require patience — 4-12 weeks for visible spot fading
- Green color may look unusual initially (natural from botanical extracts)
- Contains alcohol (denatured) near end of ingredient list — may concern some users
- Irritation potential rated high by WIMJ due to kojic acid and witch hazel
- Pregnancy safety is debated due to alpha arbutin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Simpler formula focused solely on alpha arbutin at 2% with hyaluronic acid. Lacks kojic acid, licorice root, and the 14 botanical extracts. Great entry-level option, but less comprehensive for stubborn hyperpigmentation.
Uses tranexamic acid and niacinamide as primary brightening agents instead of the arbutin + kojic acid approach. Gentler formula that may be better for extremely sensitive skin but less targeted at tyrosinase inhibition.
Contains 2% alpha arbutin with added botanicals and hydrating ingredients. More affordable alternative at a larger 30ml size, but lacks the triple tyrosinase inhibitor complex and glutathione found in Fade Away.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEMaelove Fade Away
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Kojic acid is prone to oxidation, so keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Opaque bottle with dropper applicator, designed to protect light-sensitive ingredients like kojic acid from degradation.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA / airline carry-on liquid limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQMaelove states that Fade Away can be used during pregnancy, but recommends consulting your doctor first. The concern centers around alpha arbutin, which can hydrolyze into trace amounts of hydroquinone when exposed to UV and skin bacteria (Boo 2021). While this amount is considered insignificant by researchers, some dermatologists still advise pregnant women to avoid arbutin-containing products as a precaution. The formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone directly.
No, Fade Away is not fungal acne safe. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 20, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum, which uses a fungal-acne-safe formula.
Yes, Fade Away is designed to layer with other Maelove products. The brand specifically recommends using it after their Glow Maker Vitamin C serum for enhanced results. For retinol, use Fade Away in the morning and retinol at night. If using AHAs/BHAs, introduce each product slowly — start by using them on alternating days before layering in the same routine once your skin has adjusted.
Fade Away works well for most skin types including oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin. Its lightweight, water-based liquigel texture is especially suited for oily and combination skin. Dry skin types should follow with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin should start with 2-3 applications per week. It is not recommended for those with fungal acne.
Most users notice improved hydration and brightness within the first 1-2 weeks. Visible fading of dark spots typically begins around weeks 4-6. Significant improvement in stubborn hyperpigmentation and melasma usually appears by weeks 8-12 of consistent use. Results depend on the severity of pigmentation, consistent application, and daily sunscreen use. Adding an exfoliant like glycolic acid can speed results by 2-4 weeks.
Apply Fade Away after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizer and sunscreen. If using a vitamin C serum, apply that first, wait one minute, then apply Fade Away. The general rule is to layer from thinnest to thickest texture. Fade Away can be used both in the morning and at night. Always finish your AM routine with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Fade Away has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The brand states all Maelove products are non-comedogenic. The formula is primarily water-based and lightweight, making it unlikely to clog pores for most people. However, it does contain small amounts of Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil, so those extremely sensitive to any oils may want to patch test first.
Fade Away has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the stability of the kojic acid and other active ingredients. Keep the bottle tightly closed between uses. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks with once-daily face application, or 3-4 weeks if applied to face, neck, and chest twice daily.
Verdict: Maelove Fade Away Brightening Serum is a well-formulated, dermatologist-approved treatment for hyperpigmentation that delivers on its promise of fading dark spots without hydroquinone. The triple tyrosinase inhibitor approach (alpha arbutin + kojic acid + licorice root) combined with glutathione and 14 botanical extracts makes this one of the more comprehensive brightening serums at its price point. The main trade-offs are that it is not fungal acne safe, results require patience (4-12 weeks), and the 30ml bottle may feel small for the price. Best suited for anyone dealing with sun spots, melasma, or post-acne marks who wants a science-backed, safe-for-long-term-use alternative to hydroquinone.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Alpha-Arbutin
Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning, Bleaching
|
Brightening
Dark Spots
|