Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads
Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads
Product Description
Product overview
Professional-strength 20% glycolic acid pre-soaked pads that deliver effective chemical exfoliation in a convenient wipe-on format. Enriched with Vitamins B5, C & E, plus soothing green tea and calendula extracts, these textured pads resurface skin, reduce fine lines, fade dark spots, and boost radiance — all from 50 ready-to-use pads in a jar.
20% Pure Glycolic Acid
High-strength AHA that dissolves dead skin cell bonds, stimulates collagen production, and accelerates cell turnover for visibly smoother, brighter skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY20% Pure Glycolic Acid
High-strength AHA that dissolves dead skin cell bonds, stimulates collagen production, and accelerates cell turnover for visibly smoother, brighter skin.
Soothing Botanical Blend
Green tea and calendula extracts calm inflammation while allantoin protects the skin barrier, balancing powerful exfoliation with gentle care.
Triple Vitamin Complex (B5, C, E)
Panthenol strengthens the moisture barrier, ascorbyl palmitate fights free radicals, and tocopherol repairs UV photo-damage for antioxidant protection.
Textured Non-Woven Pads
Professional-grade waffle-textured pads with a finger notch deliver both chemical and gentle physical exfoliation in one easy swipe. Fully saturated to the last pad.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGlycolic acid is generally approved by ACOG for topical OTC use, but most dermatologists recommend staying at 10% or below during pregnancy. At 20%, consult your OB-GYN before use. Likely safe for breastfeeding as minimal systemic absorption occurs.
Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rated 1/5 — formula is largely water-based with no heavy oils, waxes, or pore-clogging emollients. Glycerin and propanediol both score 0 on the comedogenic scale.
Glycolic acid increases UV sensitivity significantly. You must apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning while using this product. Best used at night only.
Free of parabens, SLS, artificial fragrances, phthalates, gluten, nickel, and talc. Contains eucalyptus and spearmint essential oils — patch test if sensitive to botanicals.
Uses Phenoxyethanol as preservative (latest formulation). Older batches may contain Diazolidinyl Urea + Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate. Both are well within safe limits.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 20%Proven
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) molecule, allowing it to penetrate skin more deeply than other AHAs. Dissolves the "glue" between dead skin cells for effective chemical exfoliation, stimulates collagen synthesis, and increases natural hyaluronic acid production.
- Mechanism: Breaks ionic bonds between corneocytes in the stratum corneum to accelerate desquamation
- Clinical data: Concentrations of 5–20% shown effective in peer-reviewed studies for texture improvement, hyperpigmentation, and fine line reduction
- Collagen boost: Long-term use at effective concentrations stimulates type I collagen production in the dermis
- Hydration: Increases endogenous hyaluronic acid synthesis, improving skin moisture from within
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) WaterProven
A distillate from the witch hazel plant rich in tannins, catechins, and gallic acid. Provides astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Helps tighten skin proteins and minimize pore appearance.
- Active compounds: Hamamelitannin, catechins, and gallic acid provide multi-functional skin benefits
- Vasoconstriction: Narrows blood vessels to reduce redness and promote healing of compromised skin
- Pore refinement: Tannins create an astringent effect that visibly tightens and refines pore size
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) ~0.5–1%Proven
Pro-vitamin B5 that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. Strengthens the skin barrier, boosts hydration, and reduces inflammation — essential for counterbalancing the potential irritation from high-strength glycolic acid.
- Barrier repair: Stimulates lipid synthesis in the stratum corneum to restore and maintain barrier function
- Anti-inflammatory: Clinically shown to reduce redness and irritation, making it ideal alongside exfoliating acids
- Wound healing: Accelerates epithelial repair, supporting the post-exfoliation recovery process
Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis)Proven
Loaded with EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), one of the most potent natural antioxidants studied in dermatology. Provides anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and photoprotective benefits.
- Antioxidant power: EGCG neutralizes free radicals and reduces oxidative stress caused by UV exposure
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms irritation, complementing the exfoliating action of glycolic acid
AllantoinProven
A well-established skin protectant and soothing agent that promotes cell regeneration and moisturization. Helps counteract potential irritation from the high-strength glycolic acid in this formula.
- Cell proliferation: Stimulates fibroblast activity and promotes healthy tissue formation
- Skin protectant: FDA-recognized skin protectant that forms a protective film on the skin surface
Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C)Promising
A fat-soluble, stable form of vitamin C that provides antioxidant protection and supports collagen synthesis. While less potent than L-ascorbic acid, it offers better stability in formulations and helps repair UV photo-damage.
- Stability: More resistant to oxidation than pure L-ascorbic acid, extending product shelf life
- Synergy: Works alongside tocopherol (vitamin E) for enhanced antioxidant protection
16 ingredients
Water, Glycolic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Propanediol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Panthenol, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Mentha Spicata Leaf/Stem Oil, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse at night after cleansing. On glycolic nights, keep your routine simple: cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize. Do not layer with retinol, vitamin C serum, or other exfoliating acids on the same evening.
How to use
HOW TO USEPatch Test First
Before first use, apply to a small area behind the ear or under the chin. Wait 24 hours for any adverse reaction. Discontinue if redness or irritation occurs.
Cleanse Your Face
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Use the pad on clean, dry skin for optimal acid penetration and even results.
Swipe the Pad
Insert your finger into the pad notch. Wipe the textured side evenly across your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. A mild tingling is normal.
Let It Dry
Allow the product to air dry completely (30–60 seconds). Do not rinse off. The acid continues working as it absorbs into your skin.
Follow Up
Apply a hydrating moisturizer once dry. In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen — glycolic acid increases UV sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to fade dark spots, acne scars, or hyperpigmentation
- You struggle with dull, rough, or uneven skin texture
- You want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- You prefer a quick, no-mess exfoliating pad over serums or peels
- You have experience with AHAs and can tolerate stronger formulas
- You want professional-level results at an affordable price point
Consider alternatives if:
- You are a complete beginner to chemical exfoliation (start at 5–10%)
- You have very sensitive skin or active rosacea
- You are pregnant (consult your doctor — 20% may be too high)
- You have fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
- You are already using retinol, tretinoin, or other strong actives nightly
- You have broken, sunburned, or compromised skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGlycolic acid unclogs pores and controls excess oil. The lightweight pad format leaves no residue or shine. Ideal match.
Glycolic acid boosts hydration by stimulating natural HA production. Glycerin and panthenol add moisture. Follow with a rich moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Balances oily T-zone while smoothing drier areas. The pad format allows you to adjust pressure for different facial zones.
20% glycolic is strong for sensitive skin. Allantoin and botanicals help soothe, but start with 1–2 times per week max. Consider a 10% alternative if irritation persists.
Excellent for non-fungal acne. Glycolic acid dissolves pore-clogging debris and speeds cell turnover. Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Not suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20.
Targets fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots with collagen-stimulating glycolic acid. Vitamin C and E provide photoaging repair. Highly recommended.
Results timeline
WEEKS 6–12Immediate Smoothness & Tingling
Skin feels noticeably smoother after the very first use. A mild tingling sensation during application is normal and indicates the acid is working. Some users report an instant brightening effect.
80% noticed smoother textureImproved Clarity & Glow
Skin tone becomes more even and radiant as dead skin cells are steadily shed. Minor flaking or purging may occur as cell turnover accelerates — this is temporary and a sign the product is working.
70% noticed brighter skinVisible Dark Spot Fading
Hyperpigmentation and acne marks begin to visibly lighten. Pores appear more refined. Skin texture is significantly smoother with a more uniform complexion.
65% noticed fading dark spotsFine Line Reduction & Collagen Benefits
With consistent use, fine lines and wrinkles start to diminish as glycolic acid stimulates collagen production in the deeper dermis. Skin elasticity and firmness improve gradually over this period.
55% noticed reduced fine linesRatings by platform
15K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High-strength 20% glycolic acid delivers visible results quickly
- Convenient pad format — no measuring, mixing, or mess
- Excellent price-to-value ratio (~$0.50/pad or less on sale)
- Pads stay fully saturated from first to last in the jar
- Textured surface provides gentle physical exfoliation too
- Soothing botanical blend reduces irritation potential
- Works on face, neck, chest, and body (ingrown hairs, bacne)
- Made in USA in an FDA-registered facility
Criticized
- Too strong for beginners — can cause stinging and redness
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20)
- Contains essential oils (eucalyptus, spearmint) — potential irritant for very sensitive skin
- Pads can dry out if jar isn't sealed properly after each use
- Only 50 pads per jar — may not last a full month with daily use
- Menthol/eucalyptus cooling sensation can feel intense for some
- No SPF included — must add sunscreen separately
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Liquid toner format instead of pads — requires a cotton round. Only 7% glycolic acid (much milder), making it better for beginners. Larger volume (240ml) lasts significantly longer. Contains no soothing botanicals.
Similar pad format with glycolic acid plus added salicylic acid, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Lower glycolic concentration but more multi-tasking formula. Contains fragrance and alcohol — less clean ingredient list.
Gentler blend of glycolic and lactic acids — better for sensitive skin. Includes hyaluronic acid and cucumber for soothing. 60 pads per jar. Significantly lower acid concentration but more beginner-friendly.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Peter Thomas Roth Glycolic Retinol Peel Pads
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dark place. Always reseal the jar tightly after each use to prevent pads from drying out. Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Screw-top jar with inner seal. 50 pre-soaked non-woven textured pads with finger notch. Pads remain saturated from first to last.
Compact jar format is travel-friendly but not TSA liquid-exempt — the saturated pads count as a liquid. Seal tightly for transport.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) approves topical glycolic acid, but most dermatologists recommend concentrations of 10% or below during pregnancy. At 20%, this product is higher than typically recommended. Consult your OB-GYN before use. For breastfeeding, glycolic acid is considered safe as minimal amounts are absorbed systemically, but avoid applying to areas that could contact your baby.
No. This product contains Polysorbate 20, which is a polysorbate emulsifier known to feed Malassezia yeast — the fungus responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a glycolic acid toner without polysorbates, such as The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution.
Do not use on the same night as retinol, vitamin C serums, or other exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA). Combining strong actives can damage your skin barrier and cause irritation, redness, and peeling. Instead, alternate nights — for example, use glycolic pads on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and retinol on Tuesday/Thursday. Vitamin C is best used in the morning, while glycolic acid works best at night.
These pads work best for oily, combination, acne-prone, and mature skin types. They are especially effective for those dealing with dullness, uneven texture, dark spots, fine lines, and clogged pores. Sensitive skin types should approach with caution — start with 1–2 uses per week and monitor tolerance. Very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin may prefer a lower-strength glycolic acid (5–10%).
Many users notice smoother skin texture after the very first use. Brighter, more radiant skin typically appears within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation begin to fade noticeably around weeks 3–4. For fine lines and wrinkle improvement, expect at least 6–12 weeks, as collagen production in the deeper dermis takes time. Results build cumulatively with regular application.
Use as Step 2 in your nighttime routine, immediately after cleansing. Swipe the pad across your face, let it dry, then follow with a moisturizer. Do not use toner before the pad — the acid needs direct skin contact. On glycolic nights, keep your routine simple: cleanser, glycolic pad, moisturizer. Save serums and other actives for non-glycolic nights. Always apply SPF 30+ the following morning.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is water-based and free of heavy oils, waxes, and known pore-clogging ingredients. Key ingredients like glycerin (0/5) and propanediol (0/5) are non-comedogenic. In fact, glycolic acid actively helps unclog pores by dissolving the buildup of dead skin cells. However, the Polysorbate 20 can be an issue for those with fungal acne specifically.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. To maximize shelf life, always screw the jar lid on tightly after each use and store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. If stored improperly, the pads may dry out prematurely. If you notice the pads becoming dry, discolored, or developing an unusual smell, discontinue use. With daily use, 50 pads will last approximately 7–8 weeks.
Verdict: The QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads deliver professional-strength chemical exfoliation at a remarkably affordable price. The convenient pad format, antioxidant-rich botanical blend, and proven 20% glycolic acid concentration make them one of the best value-for-money options in the at-home peel category. They excel for oily, combination, and mature skin types looking to tackle dark spots, uneven texture, and fine lines. The main caveats are that 20% is too strong for beginners or sensitive skin, the formula is not fungal acne safe, and it's advisable to consult a doctor before use during pregnancy. For anyone with AHA experience looking for effective, no-fuss resurfacing, these pads are hard to beat.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|