Hydrium Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule
Hydrium Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule
Product Description
The COSRX Hydrium Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule is a lightweight, fast-absorbing K-beauty ampoule powered by 42% Centella Asiatica Extract and Madecassoside β delivering immediate, pure hydration and calming relief even for reactive, red, or acne-prone skin. Fragrance-free, vegan, and fungal-acne safe, it layers beautifully in any routine without stickiness or grease.
β¨ Texture & Feel
42% Centella Asiatica Extract
Industry-leading concentration of Cica extract soothes inflammation, accelerates skin barrier repair, and delivers deep moisture with antioxidant protection.
Madecassoside Complex
A targeted compound from Centella Asiatica with proven wound-healing and barrier-strengthening properties that calm active breakouts and reduce redness visibly.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
A cornerstone of COSRX's Hydrium line β Panthenol deeply moisturizes, accelerates skin regeneration, and soothes inflammatory responses without any irritation risk.
Layerable, Lightweight Formula
Apply 2β3 drops or layer multiple times until the skin is fully saturated β the watery texture absorbs completely each time, leaving zero grease or tackiness.
Safe on Active Acne
Non-comedogenic and formulated without ferments, heavy oils, or fatty esters β proven safe for fungal acne (Malassezia) and active breakout stages.
All-Season Versatility
The ultra-light water-gel base makes this suitable even in hot, humid summers and for oily skin types that find richer serums too heavy year-round.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or restricted chemical sunscreen actives. Centella Asiatica, Panthenol, Allantoin, and Glycerin are all considered safe during pregnancy and nursing.
The formula contains no ferments, polysorbates, fatty acids, or lipid-heavy esters that can feed Malassezia. Verified safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
All key ingredients score 0β1 on the comedogenicity scale. No pore-clogging oils or waxes present. Safe for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Contains no denatured alcohol (SD Alcohol, Alcohol Denat.) or drying alcohols that can compromise the skin barrier.
No synthetic or natural fragrance components, making it suitable for reactive and fragrance-sensitive skin types.
Can be layered before or after Vitamin C serums. When using retinol, apply this ampoule first to buffer potential irritation, then apply retinol on top.
Pairs well with chemical exfoliants. Apply on nights when you are NOT using AHAs/BHAs, or use this ampoule as a soothing follow-up after exfoliation.
COSRX is certified cruelty-free and this product contains no animal-derived ingredients.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π± Centella Asiatica Extract ~42% Proven
The hero active in this ampoule, present at a confirmed 42.36% concentration β placing it as the second ingredient after water. Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) is a renowned medicinal plant with well-established benefits for skin inflammation, barrier repair, and antioxidant defense.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines, visibly reducing redness and calming sensitized skin.
- Wound healing: Stimulates collagen synthesis and fibroblast activity, supporting skin barrier recovery.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals to prevent oxidative stress and premature aging.
- Humectant: Draws moisture into the upper skin layers, improving hydration levels rapidly.
π Madecassoside traceβ0.1% Proven
One of the primary bioactive triterpenoids isolated from Centella Asiatica. Madecassoside is extensively studied for its targeted wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-strengthening effects β more potent in isolation than crude plant extract alone.
- Barrier repair: Promotes keratinocyte differentiation and helps rebuild a compromised skin barrier.
- Anti-aging synergy: La Roche-Posay research identified anti-aging effects when combined with Vitamin C.
- Redness reduction: Specifically inhibits NF-ΞΊB inflammatory pathways, reducing chronic redness.
π΅ Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5β1% Proven
The key ingredient of COSRX's entire Hydrium line. Panthenol is a provitamin that converts to Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the skin, offering moisturizing, regenerating, and anti-inflammatory effects safe for all skin types.
- Humectant + emollient: Attracts water to the skin and softens the stratum corneum simultaneously.
- Wound healing: Accelerates re-epithelialization and blemish healing at the cellular level.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces itching, redness, and discomfort in compromised skin conditions.
π§ Glycerin ~2.6β3.9% Proven
A classic humectant that draws atmospheric moisture into the skin. Glycerin supports the skin's natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) and is one of the most widely studied hydrating ingredients in dermatology.
- Humectancy: Holds up to 10x its weight in water, providing lasting surface hydration.
- Barrier support: Helps maintain healthy tight junctions in the stratum corneum.
πΏ Betaine ~1.6β2.5% Proven
A naturally derived humectant (from sugar beets) that hydrates and protects cells from osmotic stress. Known for its excellent skin-compatibility and gentle soothing properties.
- Osmoprotectant: Protects skin cells from dehydration under environmental stress.
- Soothing: Reduces irritation and improves skin tolerance of other active ingredients.
π Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) Extract trace Promising
A red algae extract rich in carrageenan polysaccharides that provides film-forming moisture retention and softening of the skin's surface. Also contributes to the gel-like texture of the formula.
- Occlusive-lite: Slows transepidermal water loss without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Emollient: Softens the skin surface and improves overall skin texture with regular use.
πΎ Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract trace Promising
Sugarcane extract contains naturally occurring glycolic acid precursors and polysaccharides that support gentle exfoliation and moisture retention. It softens skin texture over time.
- Hydration: Polysaccharides act as humectants, improving skin feel and flexibility.
- Brightening potential: Natural alpha-hydroxy compounds support gentle cell turnover.
πΈ Allantoin ~0.1β0.5% Proven
A superstar soothing and keratolytic ingredient found naturally in comfrey root. Allantoin calms irritation, promotes wound healing, and gently removes dead skin cells to improve skin texture.
- Soothing: Reduces redness, itching, and inflammation in sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Keratolytic: Gently loosens dead skin cells, improving the look and texture of the skin surface.
16 ingredients
Water, Centella Asiatica Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Octanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Madecassoside, Panthenol.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after toner on clean skin. Layer 2β3 times for deeper hydration, or follow with your regular serum and moisturizer. Suitable for both AM and PM routines.
π How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type to remove makeup, SPF, and impurities. Pat skin dry β do not rub.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a hydrating toner, apply it first to prep skin and boost absorption of the ampoule that follows.
Dispense 2β3 Drops
Use the glass dropper to dispense 2β3 drops of the ampoule into your palm or directly onto skin. Avoid the eye and mouth area.
Press & Spread Gently
Press the ampoule into skin using your fingertips and palms. Spread evenly across the face and neck with gentle patting motions for maximum absorption.
Layer if Needed
For very dry or sensitized skin, apply a second round of 2β3 drops once the first layer has absorbed. The formula is designed for layering without pilling.
Follow with Moisturizer
Seal in the hydration with your preferred moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- Your skin is reactive, red, or constantly sensitized
- You have oily or combination skin and hate heavy serums
- You're dealing with active acne and need gentle hydration
- You want a fragrance-free, clean-formula centella product
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe ampoule
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia-related breakouts
- You live in a hot climate or prefer lightweight layerable products
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need rich occlusive hydration
- You want a single-step all-in-one moisturizer
- You're looking for anti-aging actives like retinol or niacinamide
- You want a product with added SPF protection
- You prefer a thicker, cream-based product over a serum
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Watery gel texture absorbs instantly, adds no shine, and won't trigger breakouts. An ideal oily-skin ampoule for all seasons.
Balances hydration across both dry and oily zones without amplifying the T-zone or under-moisturizing drier cheek areas.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and built around Centella + Allantoin β a calming trifecta for chronic redness, rosacea, and reactive conditions.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe. Madecassoside actively helps heal active blemishes and reduce post-acne marks.
Provides meaningful hydration but layer multiple times and always follow with a richer moisturizer or facial oil for complete dryness relief.
π Results Timeline
Instant Soothing & Cooling Sensation
The watery gel formula immediately delivers a refreshing, cooling effect on contact. Redness and heat from irritated skin visibly calms within minutes of application.
~90% noticed immediate coolingReduced Redness & Improved Comfort
Consistent use over the first 1β3 nights shows measurable reduction in skin redness and irritation. Skin feels softer, less tight, and noticeably more comfortable after washing.
~78% reported calmer skinImproved Hydration & Skin Texture
Skin retains moisture more effectively between steps. Early improvements in skin texture β smoother, less rough surface β become apparent as Centella and Allantoin support cell turnover.
~70% noticed hydration improvementBarrier Strengthening & Blemish Healing
The skin's natural barrier becomes more resilient, reacting less to irritants and environmental stressors. Active blemishes heal faster, and post-acne marks begin to fade with Madecassoside's continued action.
~65% reported stronger barrier feelLong-Term Calming & Anti-Aging Support
With consistent use, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Centella contribute to a clearer, calmer, and more even complexion. Early collagen-supporting benefits from Madecassoside may become apparent.
~60% reported overall skin improvementβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exceptionally high 42% Centella Asiatica concentration
- Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free formulation
- Fungal acne safe β no problematic ferments or oils
- Fast-absorbing, zero-sticky finish ideal for oily skin
- Soothes redness and irritation from the first use
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Layerable formula for customizable hydration intensity
- Dropper packaging is hygienic and prevents waste
- Works well under makeup and sunscreen
- Very clean, minimal 16-ingredient formula
β Criticized
- 40ml is a small bottle β goes quickly with daily layering
- Not hydrating enough on its own for very dry skin types
- Relatively high price-per-ml vs. budget K-beauty alternatives
- No brightening actives like niacinamide or Vitamin C
- May pill if applied too quickly after a thick toner
- Lacks SPF or additional targeted actives
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The closest ingredient match to the COSRX ampoule (73% overlap). Also centella-based, lightweight, and suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Slightly different viscosity but comparable soothing performance. Korean brand, cruelty-free.
A beloved K-beauty cult classic with a high Centella Asiatica content at a lower price point. Simpler formula (only 6 ingredients), water-like texture, and also vegan + fungal acne safe. Less hydrating than COSRX but excellent for minimalists.
34,860 ppm (about 3.5%) pure Centella Asiatica extract β lower concentration but added niacinamide for brightening benefits. Slightly richer texture. Better option if you want centella + brightening in one product. Also fragrance-free and vegan.
π Comparison with Competitors
COSRX Hydrium Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule β Featured
~$19β22SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
~$16β18PURITO Wonder Releaf Centella Serum
~$22π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Note the opening date on the bottle with a marker and discard if the texture, color, or smell changes before that.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. For extended shelf life, keep refrigerated β the cooling effect will also enhance the soothing sensation on application.
Glass dropper bottle with opaque dark-glass body. The dropper is hygienic, prevents contamination, and allows precise dosing without wasting product.
Yes β at 40ml, it is within the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on baggage in most countries. Secure the dropper cap tightly to prevent leakage during flights.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes β this ampoule is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical UV filters, or other ingredients typically restricted during pregnancy. The key actives β Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Allantoin, and Glycerin β are all widely recognized as safe for pregnant and nursing individuals. As always, consult your healthcare provider or dermatologist if you have specific concerns about your skincare routine during pregnancy.
Yes β this ampoule is verified as safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains no fermented ingredients, polysorbates, fatty acids (lauric, myristic, stearic, oleic, etc.), heavy esters, or other lipid sources that feed Malassezia yeast. All 16 ingredients have been cross-referenced against fungal acne safety databases and are considered non-problematic. This makes it one of the more trusted Centella serums for fungal-acne prone individuals.
Yes, with some simple layering guidance. With Vitamin C: apply this ampoule before or after your Vitamin C serum β both are water-based and compatible. With retinol: apply this ampoule first on clean skin, let it absorb, then apply retinol on top. The Centella and Panthenol help buffer retinol irritation, making this an excellent "sandwich" technique companion. With AHAs/BHAs: on exfoliation nights, wait a few minutes after your acid toner before applying this ampoule. Alternatively, use this ampoule on non-exfoliation nights to restore and soothe the skin barrier.
This ampoule is rated excellent for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin types β essentially anyone who needs calming hydration without heaviness. Its watery gel texture absorbs completely without leaving shine, making it especially popular with oily-skin users who struggle to find non-greasy serums. It also rates very highly for sensitive and reactive skin due to its fragrance-free, allergen-free formulation. For very dry skin, it provides good hydration but works best when layered multiple times and followed by a richer moisturizer.
Many users notice an immediate cooling and soothing effect from the very first application. Visible reduction in redness and skin comfort typically improves within 1β3 days of consistent use. Improved hydration and smoother skin texture become apparent within the first 1β2 weeks. More significant benefits β such as a stronger skin barrier, faster blemish healing, and reduced reactivity β develop over 3β4 weeks of daily use. Long-term antioxidant and anti-aging effects from the Centella complex are cumulative and most noticeable at the 2β3 month mark.
Apply this ampoule as step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, and before any heavier serums or moisturizers. The general rule is to apply thinnest to thickest. Since this is a watery ampoule, it goes on before gel serums, creams, and oils. It is suitable for both your morning and evening routines. In the morning, follow with moisturizer and SPF. At night, follow with moisturizer or a sleeping mask. Apply 2β3 drops, press into skin gently, and let absorb for 20β30 seconds before the next step.
No β this ampoule has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it non-comedogenic in practice. None of its 16 ingredients include pore-clogging oils, waxes, or heavy esters. COSRX specifically states that the formula does not cause pores to clog and is suitable for acne-prone skin. This is confirmed by the fungal acne safe status and the absence of known comedogenic ingredients. Users with highly clog-prone skin can use this with confidence, though individual reactions can always vary β a patch test is recommended when trying any new product.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. This means once you open the bottle, use it within 12 months for optimal efficacy and safety. The 40ml dropper bottle typically lasts 1.5 to 3 months with daily use (depending on how many drops per application). The glass dropper packaging is hygienic and helps preserve the formula by minimizing air and contamination exposure. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight β refrigeration is optional but extends shelf life and enhances the cooling sensation.
Verdict: The COSRX Hydrium Centella Aqua Soothing Ampoule by COSRX is one of the most impressive centella-focused serums available at its price point. With a confirmed 42% Centella Asiatica concentration, a clinically supported Madecassoside complex, and a clean 16-ingredient formula free from fragrance, alcohol, parabens, and pore-clogging agents, it delivers on every front for sensitive, oily, acne-prone, and reactive skin types. Its lightweight watery gel texture sets it apart from heavier cica creams β absorbing in seconds and layering beautifully for customizable hydration. Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne, it's one of the few truly universally compatible ampoules in the K-beauty market. The only real limitation is the small 40ml size, which can feel insufficient for dedicated layerers. For anyone seeking serious soothing and barrier support in a clean, no-frills K-beauty formulation β this is an exceptional choice.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|