Hydroquinone 4% Cream
Hydroquinone 4% Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Perrigo Hydroquinone 4% Cream is a prescription-strength skin-bleaching treatment formulated with the dermatological gold-standard depigmenting agent for gradually fading melasma, chloasma, freckles, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This vanishing cream base delivers maximum-strength 4% hydroquinone in a simple, fragrance-free formula designed for twice-daily use under medical supervision.
Gold-Standard Depigmenting Agent
Hydroquinone inhibits tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin production, gradually fading dark spots at their source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGold-Standard Depigmenting Agent
Hydroquinone inhibits tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin production, gradually fading dark spots at their source.
Maximum FDA-Regulated Strength
Contains 40 mg hydroquinone per gram (4%), the highest concentration available by prescription in the US.
Simple Vanishing Cream Base
Minimalist 11-ingredient formula with squalane and mineral oil emollients, free from fragrance and dyes.
Decades of Clinical Data
Backed by over 50 years of dermatological research for treating melasma, chloasma, and UV-induced dyschromia.
Safety & compatibility
SAFESince 2020, hydroquinone is no longer available OTC in the United States and requires a valid prescription from a licensed provider.
Safety has not been established during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Discontinue use and consult your provider if pregnant.
This formula contains no SPF. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential — UV exposure reverses results and can worsen hyperpigmentation.
Long-term continuous use (beyond 3 months) may increase risk of exogenous ochronosis. Cycle treatment with breaks as directed.
Contains sodium metabisulfite, which may cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, particularly those with asthma.
Apply a small amount to an unbroken area of skin and wait 24 hours before full use to check for sensitivity or reaction.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydroquinone 4%Proven
The dermatological gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin, producing reversible depigmentation of the skin.
- Mechanism: Blocks enzymatic oxidation of tyrosine to dopa, suppressing melanocyte activity
- Clinical study: A 12-week trial showed 4% hydroquinone outperformed 0.75% kojic acid for facial melasma with faster clinical improvement
- Concentration: 40 mg per gram — the maximum prescription strength in the US
- Indications: Melasma, chloasma, freckles, senile lentigines, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Glyceryl Stearate ~5-10%Proven
A self-emulsifying blend of glycerin and stearic acid that stabilizes the water and oil phases, giving the cream its smooth vanishing texture.
- Function: Emulsifier, surfactant, and skin-conditioning emollient
- Safety: Low irritation and low comedogenic profile in standard formulations
- Role: Helps hydroquinone disperse evenly across the skin for consistent delivery
Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil) ~5-15%Proven
A highly refined, inert occlusive that forms a breathable barrier on skin, reducing transepidermal water loss and helping active ingredients stay in place.
- Function: Occlusive moisturizer and solvent for the cream base
- Cosmetic-grade safety: Considered one of the safest, non-reactive emollients in dermatology
- Comedogenic note: Pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil is non-comedogenic despite common misconception
PEG-40 Stearate ~2-5%Proven
A polyethylene glycol emulsifier (also known as Polyoxyl 40 Stearate) that helps create a stable, homogeneous cream by binding water and oil phases together.
- Function: Nonionic surfactant and emulsifier
- Tolerance: Generally well-tolerated, though may cause mild irritation on broken skin
Propylene Glycol ~5-10%Proven
A multifunctional humectant that draws moisture into the skin, acts as a solvent for active ingredients, and enhances hydroquinone penetration into the epidermis.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, penetration enhancer, preservative booster
- Penetration: Improves delivery of hydroquinone into the basal layer where melanocytes reside
- Note: Some sensitive individuals may experience mild irritation or contact dermatitis
Propylparaben <0.5%Proven
A widely-used preservative with antifungal and antibacterial properties that protects the formula from microbial contamination during its shelf life.
- Function: Preservative effective against mold, yeast, and bacteria
- Regulatory status: Approved for use at low concentrations by the FDA
Water (Aqua) BaseProven
Purified water is the primary solvent and largest component of the formula, providing the medium in which all other ingredients are dispersed and delivered to the skin.
- Function: Solvent and carrier for active ingredients
- Grade: USP-grade purified water, meeting pharmaceutical standards
Sodium Metabisulfite ~0.1-0.5%Proven
An antioxidant preservative that prevents hydroquinone from oxidizing and darkening, which is critical for maintaining product efficacy throughout its shelf life.
- Function: Antioxidant, stabilizer for hydroquinone
- Critical role: Without this, hydroquinone oxidizes quickly and loses potency
Squalane ~2-5%Proven
A saturated, stable emollient that closely mimics skin's natural sebum, providing lightweight hydration and helping counteract the potential drying effect of hydroquinone.
- Function: Skin-identical emollient and antioxidant
- Benefit: Non-comedogenic, non-irritating — ideal for supporting barrier function
- Synergy: Helps offset dryness and flaking sometimes caused by hydroquinone
Stearic Acid ~3-8%Proven
A naturally-derived fatty acid that thickens the formula, stabilizes the emulsion, and contributes to the cream's smooth, non-greasy "vanishing" texture.
- Function: Thickener, emulsifier, skin-softening agent
- Tolerance: Generally well-tolerated with low allergenic potential
PEG-25 Propylene Glycol Stearate ~1-3%Proven
A compound emulsifier that works alongside PEG-40 Stearate to ensure the water and oil phases remain perfectly blended and stable over time.
- Function: Co-emulsifier and texture enhancer
- Benefit: Contributes to the signature smooth feel of the vanishing cream base
11 ingredients
Active: Hydroquinone 4%. Inactive: Glyceryl Stearate (Glyceryl Monostearate), Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), PEG-40 Stearate (Polyoxyl 40 Stearate), Propylene Glycol, Propylparaben, Water (Aqua/Purified Water), Sodium Metabisulfite, Squalane, Stearic Acid, PEG-25 Propylene Glycol Stearate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as a targeted spot treatment to dark spots after cleansing and serums. Wait 5-10 minutes before moisturizer. Daily SPF 30+ is non-negotiable — without it, results reverse within weeks.
How to use
HOW TO USEPatch Test First (24 Hours)
Apply a small amount to an unbroken area (like behind the ear) and wait 24 hours. Discontinue if you notice itching, vesicle formation, or excessive inflammation.
Cleanse & Dry Skin
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat completely dry. Hydroquinone absorbs best into clean, dry skin without competing layers.
Apply a Thin Layer to Dark Spots
Using a pea-sized amount, apply a thin layer directly to the hyperpigmented areas only. Rub in well. Avoid spreading onto surrounding healthy skin.
Use Twice Daily (AM & PM)
Apply in the morning and before bed, or as directed by your physician. Consistency is essential — skipping applications delays results.
Wait, Then Moisturize
Allow 5-10 minutes of absorption before applying moisturizer. Layer a gentle, barrier-supporting moisturizer to minimize dryness.
Always Finish with Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+
Daily sunscreen is mandatory during treatment. UV exposure sustains melanocyte activity and reverses all progress. Mineral SPF is often preferred.
Reassess at 2-3 Months
If no improvement is seen after 2 months, discontinue and consult your provider. Do not exceed 3 months of continuous use without a break.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have melasma, chloasma, or hormone-induced hyperpigmentation
- You have stubborn post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne or injury
- You have age spots (solar lentigines) or freckles you want to fade
- You have a valid prescription from a dermatologist or licensed provider
- You're willing to commit to daily SPF 30+ without exception
- Milder alternatives (azelaic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide) haven't worked
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have a sulfite or paraben allergy or severe asthma
- You have very sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-prone skin
- You can't commit to consistent daily sunscreen use
- You're under 12 years of age
- You prefer "clean beauty" or EU-compliant cosmetic formulations
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESVanishing cream absorbs well but the mineral oil base may feel heavy in very oily areas — use sparingly as a spot treatment.
Emollient squalane and mineral oil help buffer hydroquinone's drying effect, though additional moisturizer is recommended.
Use as a targeted spot treatment on affected zones rather than all over — works well for localized melasma or PIH.
Propylene glycol and sodium metabisulfite can trigger irritation. Patch test mandatory; start every other night and build up tolerance.
Excellent for fading PIH from healed acne, but the occlusive cream base may feel heavy — apply only to spots, not whole face.
The gold standard for age spots (solar lentigines) and UV-induced dyschromia — most effective use case for this formula.
Results timeline
POST-TREATMENTSkin Adjustment Phase
Possible mild tingling, transient redness, or slight dryness as skin adapts. No visible fading yet. Some users report mild stinging on application.
~40% report mild irritation initiallyFirst Signs of Fading
Subtle lightening of the darkest spots begins. Melanin production in melanocytes slows. Clinical studies show measurable pigment reduction from week 4.
60% notice early improvementVisible Improvement
Significant lightening of melasma, PIH, and lentigines is typically visible. Clinical trials demonstrate statistically significant reduction in mMASI scores by week 8.
75% report clear progressPeak Results
Maximum depigmentation typically achieved. Most patients see substantial fading of target areas. Treatment should be reassessed — continuing beyond 3 months increases ochronosis risk.
85% see meaningful fadingMaintenance Phase
Transition to gentler agents (azelaic acid, vitamin C, tranexamic acid) and strict daily SPF to maintain results. Without sunscreen, pigmentation typically returns.
Results last if SPF is consistentRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dermatology's gold standard for hyperpigmentation with decades of research
- Maximum 4% prescription strength — most potent option available
- Simple, minimalist 11-ingredient formula without fillers
- Fragrance-free and dye-free — unlikely to trigger cosmetic allergies
- Visible fading often seen within 4-8 weeks of consistent use
- Effective for melasma, PIH, age spots, and freckles
- Affordable compared to branded combination products
Criticized
- Requires a prescription (not available OTC in the US since 2020)
- Banned for cosmetic use in the EU and several other regions
- Risk of exogenous ochronosis with long-term continuous use
- Contains sodium metabisulfite — sulfite-sensitivity concern
- Makes skin highly photosensitive; SPF failure reverses results
- Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Initial stinging, dryness, or mild redness commonly reported
- Pigmentation frequently returns after stopping
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Alpha arbutin is a safer, pregnancy-compatible tyrosinase inhibitor derived from hydroquinone. Slower results (8-12 weeks), but no ochronosis risk, OTC available globally, and suitable for long-term use.
Azelaic acid tackles both hyperpigmentation and acne/redness via tyrosinase inhibition. Pregnancy-safe, gentler, and available OTC. Requires longer use but produces durable results.
Tranexamic acid blocks the UV-to-melanocyte signaling pathway. Clinical trials show 3% TA outperformed 4% hydroquinone by week 8. Pregnancy-safe and well-tolerated on sensitive skin.
Multi-acid blend (tranexamic acid 3%, kojic acid 1%, niacinamide 5%, HEPES) targets pigmentation via multiple pathways. Hydroquinone-free, ochronosis-free, safe for long-term daily use.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Tri-Luma (Fluocinolone/Hydroquinone/Tretinoin)
Storage & shelf life
3 MONTHS3 months of active use recommended; discard by expiration date on tube. Darkening of product is normal but reduces potency over time.
Store at controlled room temperature 20-25°C (68-77°F). Brief excursions 15-30°C (59-86°F) permitted. Keep cap tightly closed.
1 oz (28.35g) aluminum tube with screw cap — standard pharmaceutical-grade packaging that limits oxidation exposure.
Yes — 28.35g tube is well under the 100ml TSA limit. Carry your prescription label when flying internationally.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. The safety of topical hydroquinone during pregnancy or while breastfeeding has not been established. Hydroquinone is absorbed systemically (around 35-45%) and animal studies have shown some carcinogenic and mutagenic potential. It is not known whether hydroquinone is excreted in human milk. Dermatologists typically recommend discontinuing hydroquinone at least a month before conception and switching to pregnancy-safe alternatives like azelaic acid, vitamin C, or glycolic acid during pregnancy and lactation.
Yes. The formula does not contain fatty acids or esters with chain lengths of C11-C24 that feed Malassezia yeast, nor does it contain polysorbates or ferments. Squalane is considered fungal-acne safe, and mineral oil is inert. The only potential concern is the emulsifier PEG-40 Stearate, which is generally considered low-risk for malassezia folliculitis. Overall it's a low-risk choice for those managing fungal acne alongside hyperpigmentation.
Yes, but carefully. Retinoids (like tretinoin or retinol) are frequently combined with hydroquinone — in fact, Tri-Luma (4% HQ + 0.05% tretinoin + steroid) is a proven prescription combination. However, layering irritants can increase redness and dryness. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can be used in the morning while hydroquinone is used at night. AHAs and BHAs should be used on alternate nights, not stacked, to avoid barrier damage. Always space applications 15-30 minutes apart and introduce one new active at a time. Consult your dermatologist for a tailored regimen.
This cream performs best on mature, sun-damaged, and normal-to-dry skin with localized hyperpigmentation such as melasma, age spots, or post-inflammatory dark marks. The vanishing cream base works across most skin types but may feel too heavy for very oily complexions. Sensitive and rosacea-prone skin should approach with caution — start with every-other-night application and build up tolerance gradually. Hydroquinone treats all Fitzpatrick skin types, but darker skin tones (IV-VI) should be monitored more closely for exogenous ochronosis.
Most users notice subtle fading between weeks 3 and 4, with visibly significant improvement by weeks 6 to 8. Clinical studies on 4% hydroquinone demonstrated statistically significant reductions in mMASI (melasma severity) scores from the 4-week mark onward. Peak results are typically achieved at 12 weeks. If you see no improvement after 2 months, the package insert recommends discontinuation. Results depend heavily on consistent twice-daily application and strict daily SPF 30+ use — without sunscreen, results stall or reverse.
Apply hydroquinone as a targeted spot treatment after cleansing and any water-based toners or serums, but before moisturizer. In the morning: cleanser → toner → hydroquinone (on spots only) → moisturizer → broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (non-negotiable). In the evening: cleanser → hydroquinone (on spots only) → moisturizer. If using a retinoid, apply hydroquinone first, wait 10-15 minutes, then apply the retinoid. Keep it as a dedicated spot treatment rather than an all-over face cream to minimize unnecessary exposure.
It has a mild-to-moderate comedogenic rating of approximately 3/5, primarily due to the mineral oil, stearic acid, and glyceryl stearate base. However, pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil in this formulation has a low real-world clogging risk. Acne-prone users should apply it only to affected hyperpigmented spots rather than spreading it over the entire face, and pair it with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. If new breakouts appear after starting treatment, reduce frequency to once daily or every other night.
Once opened, aim to use within 3 months for maximum potency, and always before the expiration date printed on the tube. Hydroquinone oxidizes rapidly when exposed to air and light, which is why the formula includes sodium metabisulfite as a stabilizer. Mild darkening of the cream is normal and doesn't affect safety, but a pronounced brown or black color indicates significant oxidation and loss of efficacy — discard at that point. Always close the cap tightly after each use and store away from heat and direct light.
Verdict: Perrigo Hydroquinone 4% Cream remains the dermatology gold-standard treatment for stubborn melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and age spots. Its minimalist 11-ingredient formula delivers maximum prescription-strength hydroquinone without fragrance, dyes, or unnecessary fillers. Clinical studies consistently show 4% hydroquinone outperforms kojic acid and matches or beats tranexamic acid for fast, visible fading within 4-8 weeks. The trade-offs are real: prescription access, strict sunscreen requirements, pregnancy incompatibility, and a 3-month usage ceiling to avoid ochronosis. For those who qualify and commit to proper use, it's one of the most effective topical treatments available — though modern alternatives like azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, and arbutin offer safer long-term options for maintenance.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-40 Stearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 7 |
Propylparaben
Perfuming, Fragrance, Preservative
|
|