Glowing Essence Complete Serum
Glowing Essence Complete Serum
Product Description
Product overview
This essence combines stabilized vitamin C, bakuchiol, and tranexamic acid to address dullness, fine lines, and uneven tone. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin provide hydration without occlusion, while peptides support skin firmness. The lightweight, fast-absorbing texture fits into multi-step routines without heaviness.
Vitamin C + bakuchiol brightening essence
Tranexamic acid reinforces tone-evening benefits. The formula absorbs quickly, making it suitable for layering under serums and moisturizers.
Texture & feel
SENSORYStabilized vitamin C brightening
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate resists oxidation better than L-ascorbic acid, delivering antioxidant protection and supporting melanin control over consistent use.
Bakuchiol for gentle retinization
Bakuchiol stimulates skin renewal without retinoid irritation, working synergistically with peptides to reduce fine-line appearance and support firmness.
Multi-layer hydration system
Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, and panthenol work together to draw moisture into the skin and support the barrier without occlusive ingredients.
Tranexamic acid tone support
This amino derivative helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and supports a more even complexion over 4–8 weeks of consistent application.
Peptide and ectoin complex
Palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 signal skin to maintain firmness, while ectoin (a natural osmolyte) enhances hydration retention.
Fast-absorbing, layering-friendly texture
Silica and copolymer matrix create a lightweight gel that dries down quickly, allowing immediate application of serums, moisturizers, or sunscreen without pilling.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEVitamin C ester and bakuchiol are considered compatible with pregnancy when used topically in essence form, though always consult your OB-GYN.
Contains polysorbate 20, a potential trigger for malassezia-related breakouts. If you have history of fungal acne, patch-test or consult a dermatologist before full application.
While tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate is gentler than L-ascorbic acid, consistent vitamin C use can make skin more sensitive to UV damage. Daily sunscreen (SPF 30+) is essential.
Formulated without parabens or sulfates, making it suitable for most sensitive skin types. Preservatives are phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin—low irritancy options.
This essence is gentle enough to apply before or after gentle actives like low-strength retinoids or weekly AHA treatments. Allow 15 minutes between applications if using strong actives.
Vitamin C ester works best in slightly acidic conditions (pH 3–5). Do not apply immediately before alkaline cleansers or clay masks, which may reduce efficacy.
Ingredient breakdown
INCITetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C) Proven
A lipid-soluble vitamin C derivative that penetrates the skin barrier and converts to ascorbic acid in cells. Unlike L-ascorbic acid, it resists oxidation and works across a wider pH range, making it stable in multi-ingredient formulas.
- Function: Antioxidant that supports collagen synthesis and inhibits melanin transfer
- Benefit: Brightening and fine-line support visible over 6–8 weeks
- Mechanism: Regenerates vitamin E and supports skin's natural repair pathways
Bakuchiol Proven
It upregulates skin-renewal genes and supports collagen remodeling.
- Function: Stimulates skin turnover and supports epidermal thickness without retinoid irritation
- Benefit: Fine-line reduction and improved skin texture over 4–8 weeks
- Mechanism: Binds retinoid receptors and activates collagen-I and III expression
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) Proven
A humectant salt of hyaluronic acid that draws moisture into the stratum corneum and supports hydration at multiple molecular weights. It holds up to 1000x its weight in water.
- Function: Binds water and supports skin hydration without occlusion
- Benefit: Plumping effect and improved skin suppleness within hours
- Mechanism: Penetrates interstices and attracts water from dermis and environment
Tranexamic Acid Proven
An amino acid derivative that reduces hyperpigmentation by inhibiting plasmin-mediated inflammatory pathways. Studies show it reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma-related discoloration.
- Function: Inhibits melanin transfer to keratinocytes and reduces inflammatory triggers
- Benefit: Visible tone evening and reduced dark spots over 6–12 weeks
- Mechanism: Blocks plasmin and reduces TNF-alpha signaling in melanocytes
Panthenol Proven
A provitamin B5 that converts to pantothenic acid in skin, supporting barrier lipid synthesis and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Calms inflammation and supports skin resilience.
- Function: Enhances ceramide production and reduces water loss across the barrier
- Benefit: Improved hydration and reduced irritation sensitivity
- Mechanism: Penetrates and recycles into pantothenic acid for lipid synthesis
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide Supporting
Matrixyl-like peptides that signal fibroblasts to increase collagen and elastin production. They support skin firmness and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- Function: Stimulates collagen-I and elastin production in dermal fibroblasts
- Benefit: Firmness improvement and fine-line softening over 4–6 weeks
- Mechanism: Binds growth-factor receptors and upregulates extracellular matrix genes
Glycerin Supporting
A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that draws moisture into the stratum corneum and supports barrier function. Works synergistically with hyaluronic acid to deepen hydration.
- Function: Humectant that holds water and supports lipid barrier integrity
- Benefit: Immediate plumping and long-term barrier support
- Mechanism: Penetrates intracorneal lipids and attracts water molecules
Ectoin Supporting
A natural extremolyte derived from halophilic bacteria that stabilizes proteins and supports cellular hydration. It reinforces the skin barrier's moisture retention.
- Function: Increases intracellular hydration and protects proteins from osmotic stress
- Benefit: Enhanced hydration stability and reduced irritation response
- Mechanism: Stabilizes water in cells and protects barrier lipids from dehydration
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate Supporting
A derivative of licorice root that reduces redness and irritation by inhibiting inflammatory pathways. Soothes reactive skin and supports barrier recovery.
- Function: Inhibits TNF-alpha and histamine-driven inflammation
- Benefit: Visible redness reduction and calmed, comfortable skin
- Mechanism: Blocks inflammatory cytokine signaling in keratinocytes and immune cells
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) Supporting
A stable form of vitamin E that acts as an antioxidant and supports barrier integrity. Works alongside vitamin C to extend free-radical protection.
- Function: Antioxidant that regenerates vitamin C and protects lipids from oxidation
- Benefit: Enhanced environmental protection and barrier support
- Mechanism: Scavenges free radicals and recycles vitamin C in the skin
37 ingredients
Water, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Tranexamic Acid, Caprylyl Methicone, Glycerin, Emu Oil, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Butylene Glycol, Silica, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Ectoin, Bakuchiol, Urea, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid), Sodium PCA, Trehalose, Triacetin, Polyquaternium-51, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Allantoin, Carbomer, Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol, PPG-12/Smdi Copolymer, Lysolecithin, Pullulan, Polysorbate 20, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, BHT, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin.
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 04Apply this essence to clean, slightly damp skin as the second or third step in your routine, after a gentle cleanser and toner but before heavier serums or moisturizers. Wait 1–2 minutes for the gel to set before layering the next product. In AM routines, use before sunscreen; in PM routines, you can follow with a retinoid or peptide serum (wait 15 minutes if combining with strong actives). Use morning and evening for optimal results.
How to use
4 STEPSCleanse & tone
Start with clean, slightly damp skin after toner.
Dispense 2–3 drops
Drop into palms or directly onto face — a little goes a long way.
Pat to absorb
Gently pat into skin until fully absorbed. No need to rub.
Layer & seal
Follow with moisturizer to lock it in. Sunscreen the next morning.
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You want brightening and fine-line support without retinoid irritation
- You're building a multi-step K-beauty or Western routine and need a lightweight active serum
- You have dull, uneven tone and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- You prefer vitamin C but struggle with unstable formulas or low pH products
- You're looking for peptide + antioxidant support without heavy occlusion
- You want to layer actives (retinoids, AHAs, niacinamide) without overwhelming your barrier
Consider alternatives if
- You have active fungal-acne breakouts (polysorbate 20 is a known trigger)
- You need intensive moisturizing for very dry skin (this is a serum, not a moisturizer)
- You're seeking a one-step treatment (this requires additional moisturizer and sunscreen)
- You're sensitive to fragrance additives like bergamot oil (though this is unscented, the essential oil may cause phototoxicity)
- You expect visible results within 1 week (brightening and peptide benefits take 4–8 weeks)
- You need a waterproof, occluding treatment for extreme dehydration
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESSodium hyaluronate and panthenol provide solid hydration, but dry skin should follow with a richer moisturizer to seal in benefits. The essence alone is not occluding enough for very parched skin.
The lightweight gel formula absorbs cleanly without heaviness. Vitamin C and bakuchiol address oily-skin concerns (dullness, congestion) without adding shine. Ideal for oily and combination skin.
Fast-absorbing texture suits mixed skin without leaving residue on the T-zone. Balanced hydration and brightening support make this a versatile core step.
Bakuchiol and low-irritancy preservatives are gentle, but patch-test first. Vitamin C can increase sensitivity in some people. Those with histamine sensitivity should be cautious of the licorice derivative.
Polysorbate 20 is a known fungal-acne trigger, making this risky for malassezia-prone breakouts. However, non-fungal acne sufferers may benefit from tranexamic acid and bakuchiol's anti-inflammatory support.
Vitamin C, bakuchiol, and peptides directly address fine lines and loss of firmness. Hyaluronic acid and emu oil support hydration, though mature skin should layer with a richer moisturizer for optimal barrier support.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Hydration and smoothness boost
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin immediately plump the skin and smooth texture. Users notice softer, more supple skin within the first few applications.
Users frequently noticed improved hydrationBrightening and tone refinement
Vitamin C and tranexamic acid begin to reduce dullness and even tone. Skin appears more luminous and post-acne marks begin to soften.
Users frequently reported visible brighteningFine-line softening and firmness
Bakuchiol and peptides stimulate collagen production, leading to noticeable reduction in fine-line appearance and improved skin elasticity. Firmness becomes more apparent.
Users frequently noticed smoother texture and reduced fine linesLong-term radiance and resilience
Consistent use results in a more even, resilient complexion. Skin barrier strength improves, sensitivity decreases, and the cumulative brightening effect becomes pronounced.
Users frequently reported sustained improvement in overall skin healthRatings by platform
1.9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Stabilized vitamin C avoids oxidation issues common with L-ascorbic acid formulas
- Bakuchiol provides retinol-like benefits without irritation or photosensitivity
- Fast-absorbing gel texture allows seamless layering in multi-step routines
- Paraben, sulfate, and alcohol-free formulation suits sensitive and clean-beauty preferences
- Tranexamic acid specifically targets post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma
- Hyaluronic acid and panthenol deliver hydration without heaviness
- Peptide complex supports collagen production for fine-line and firmness improvement
- Unscented and fragrance-free (no essential oils or synthetic fragrances)
- Pregnancy-safe profile (no retinoids, hydroquinone, or salicylates)
Criticized
- Contains polysorbate 20, which triggers fungal-acne breakouts in susceptible individuals
- Requires consistent 4–8 week use for visible brightening and fine-line results
- Not a standalone moisturizer; must be followed with a richer cream for dry skin
- Vitamin C can increase photosensitivity—daily SPF 30+ is non-negotiable
- Bergamot fruit oil (a citrus extract) may cause photosensitization in some formulations or high concentrations
- Essence format requires a full multi-step routine to deliver complete benefits
- Higher price point than drugstore vitamin C serums, reflecting stabilized delivery and peptide actives
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Both are lightweight, hydrating essences that support skin barrier and work in multi-step routines. However, COSRX lacks vitamin C and bakuchiol; it's primarily hydration-focused with snail secretion filtrate rather than brightening actives.
Offers L-ascorbic acid (not stabilized) and hyaluronic acid at a fraction of the price. Lacks bakuchiol, peptides, and tranexamic acid. Higher-irritancy vitamin C form makes it less suitable for sensitive skin.
K-beauty cream with peptides, rice bran, and ginseng for anti-aging and hydration. Creamier texture than this essence; lacks vitamin C and bakuchiol, better suited for dry skin than combination or oily.
Lightweight essence with peptides and collagen-supporting ingredients. Lacks vitamin C, bakuchiol, and tranexamic acid. Stronger focus on hydration than brightening, making it a gentler alternative for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Glowing Essence — Complete Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Vitamin C ester, bakuchiol, and tranexamic acid are topical actives generally regarded as safe. However, consult your OB-GYN before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
No, not recommended. This formula contains polysorbate 20, a known trigger for malassezia-related acne. If you're prone to fungal breakouts, patch-test on a small area first or avoid entirely and choose a fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Apply this essence first to clean, damp skin, then wait 15–20 minutes before applying a retinoid or AHA. Alternatively, use the essence on nights when you're not using strong actives to avoid over-exfoliation. Never combine all three (vitamin C + retinoid + AHA) on the same evening unless your skin is very resilient.
Hydration benefits are immediate (plumping within hours). Visible brightening from vitamin C and tranexamic acid typically appears at 4–6 weeks with consistent twice-daily use. Fine-line softening from bakuchiol and peptides takes 6–8 weeks. Results compound over 12 weeks.
No. Vitamin C increases UV photosensitivity, making daily SPF 30+ non-negotiable. Apply sunscreen every morning and reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure, even indoors near windows (UVA penetrates glass).
It provides good hydration via hyaluronic acid and glycerin, but it is not occlusive on its own. If you have very dry skin, follow this essence immediately with a richer moisturizer or facial oil to seal in benefits. Do not use as a standalone treatment.
You can layer serums, but apply each separately and wait 1–2 minutes between applications to avoid pilling or diluting active concentrations. Essence first, then lighter serums, then richer creams.
Vitamin C formulas are stable but benefit from cool storage away from direct sunlight. Store in a cool, dry place (refrigerator is optional but helps). Use within 6–12 months of opening. If you notice oxidation (browning) or separation, discard.
Verdict: Glowing Essence Complete Serum is a multi-tasking essence that combines stabilized vitamin C, bakuchiol, and tranexamic acid in a lightweight, fast-absorbing gel. The formula delivers on brightening and fine-line support, with synergistic hydration from sodium hyaluronate and panthenol. Peptide complex and ectoin reinforce firmness and barrier resilience. The main limitations are a small bottle size typical of essences, the 4–8 week timeline before visible tone-evening, and the fungal-acne risk posed by polysorbate 20. It also requires layering with a richer moisturizer if you have dry skin. At this price point, it sits in the mid-premium range, justified by the stabilized vitamin C and multi-active profile. Best suited for oily, combination, or normal skin types seeking brightening and anti-aging support without retinoid irritation, especially those building a K-beauty-style multi-step routine.
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
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.