Lactic Acid AHA Exfoliating Serum
Lactic Acid AHA Exfoliating Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A powerful yet gentle 9% lactic acid serum that brightens and refines dull, congested skin overnight. Dual exfoliating acids (AHA + PHA) smooth and retexturize while an exclusive soothing complex with four molecular weights of hyaluronic acid calms and hydrates.
Overnight Glow
9% lactic acid gently dissolves dead skin cells to reveal brighter, more radiant skin by morning.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOvernight Glow
9% lactic acid gently dissolves dead skin cells to reveal brighter, more radiant skin by morning.
Dual Acid Technology
AHA + PHA combination exfoliates at two levels for smoother texture, refined pores, and improved clarity.
4x Hyaluronic Acid Complex
Four molecular weights of hyaluronic acid penetrate multiple skin layers for deep, lasting hydration.
Soothing Botanical Complex
Aloe vera, green tea, and chamomile extracts calm the skin and minimize irritation from exfoliation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Lactic acid is considered safe for use during pregnancy. The brand explicitly markets this as pregnancy-safe.
Contains Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Glycine Soja Oil which can feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne.
Oil-free formula with only trace amounts of soybean oil. Very low risk of clogging pores for most skin types.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. You must apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the morning after use. Evening-only application recommended.
Avoid using on the same night as retinoids or other AHA/BHA products. Alternate nights for best results and to prevent over-exfoliation.
Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates (SLS/SLES), mineral oil, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, formaldehyde, coal tar, triclosan, and silicones.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSLactic Acid 9%Proven
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from fermented lactose that gently exfoliates the skin surface, promotes cell turnover, and stimulates ceramide production to strengthen the skin barrier. Gentler than glycolic acid with added hydrating properties.
- Mechanism: Breaks down desmosomes (bonds between dead skin cells) to accelerate shedding of the stratum corneum.
- Study: A 1996 study showed 12% lactic acid affected both epidermis and dermis layers, reducing fine lines and improving firmness.
- Bonus: Supports healthy skin microbiome by promoting beneficial bacterial populations on the skin surface.
Gluconolactone (PHA) Undisclosed %Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation while attracting moisture to the skin. Larger molecular size means less penetration and less irritation than traditional AHAs, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
- Mechanism: Exfoliates while functioning as a humectant, attracting water to the upper skin layers.
- Study: Clinical research shows PHAs can stimulate the skin's own hyaluronic acid production and help reduce acne over a 12-week period.
- Bonus: Provides antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits alongside exfoliation.
4x Hyaluronic Acid Complex Multi-WeightProven
A proprietary blend of four molecular weights of hyaluronic acid: Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer. Each weight penetrates different skin layers for multi-depth hydration.
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Standard weight that hydrates the outer skin layers and forms a moisture-locking film.
- Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate: Smaller fragments that penetrate deeper to plump skin from within.
- Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: Creates a long-lasting moisture reservoir on the skin surface.
Green Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis) SupportingProven
A potent antioxidant rich in polyphenols (especially EGCG) that neutralizes free radicals, protects against environmental damage, and soothes inflammation. Helps calm skin after chemical exfoliation.
- Source: Rich in catechins (EGCG), which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and photoprotective properties in peer-reviewed studies.
- Benefit: Helps reduce redness and irritation caused by acid exfoliation.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice SupportingProven
Renowned for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Helps calm the skin after exfoliation and provides a layer of lightweight hydration.
- Benefit: Contains acemannan and other polysaccharides that accelerate skin repair and reduce post-exfoliation redness.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) SupportingProven
A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that penetrates the skin and converts to pantothenic acid. Strengthens the skin barrier, improves hydration, and accelerates wound healing.
- Benefit: Clinically shown to improve skin hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) when used consistently.
39 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Heptyl Undecylenate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Panthenol, Tocopherol, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Tartaric Acid, Malic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Pentylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Glycolic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Caprylyl Glycol, Gluconolactone, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in your PM routine only. On nights you use retinol, skip this serum. Apply after cleanser and toner, wait 5 minutes, then follow with moisturizer. Always apply SPF the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Start with a clean, dry face. Remove all makeup and impurities with your favorite gentle cleanser. Pat skin dry completely before applying.
Apply 1–2 Pumps
Dispense one to two pumps onto fingertips and smooth evenly over face and neck. Avoid the eye area and any broken or irritated skin.
Wait 5 Minutes
Allow the serum to fully absorb for five minutes before applying any additional products. A slight tingling sensation is normal during this time.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your favorite nighttime moisturizer to lock in hydration and support the skin barrier overnight.
SPF in the Morning
Freshly exfoliated skin is more susceptible to UV damage. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher the next morning without fail.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want brighter, more radiant skin overnight
- You struggle with dull, uneven skin tone or texture
- You need a gentle exfoliant for retinol rest nights
- You want to minimize the appearance of pores
- You are pregnant and need a retinol alternative
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean formulas
- You have normal, oily, combination, or dry skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You are on a tight budget (this is $75 for 30 mL)
- You want a high-strength peel (9% is moderate strength)
- You have very sensitive or compromised skin barrier
- You already use daily AHA/BHA and don't need another
- You prefer fragrance or a sensory skincare experience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The balanced AHA/PHA formula maintains clarity and glow without disrupting a healthy skin barrier.
Oil-free, lightweight formula absorbs fast without adding shine. Helps decongest pores and control excess sebum buildup.
Works well across all face zones. Exfoliates oily T-zone while the hyaluronic acid complex hydrates drier cheek areas.
Lactic acid is one of the most hydrating AHAs, and the 4x HA complex helps. Layer a rich moisturizer on top for best results.
Fragrance-free with soothing botanicals. Start 1x per week and patch test first. The PHA component is gentler than glycolic acid.
Low comedogenic rating and helps clear congestion. However, not fungal-acne safe due to polysorbate 60 and soybean oil.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Brightness & Glow
Skin appears visibly brighter and more luminous after just one application. The lactic acid dissolves surface dead skin cells while the hyaluronic acid complex plumps and smooths.
100% noticed brighter skin overnight (clinical study)Smoother Texture & Refined Pores
Regular use reveals noticeably smoother skin texture. Pores begin to appear less visible as dead cell buildup is cleared. Mild initial purging may occur in congestion-prone areas.
100% experienced less noticeable pores (clinical study)Even Tone & Reduced Dark Spots
Consistent exfoliation promotes more even skin tone. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dark spots begin to fade as cell turnover accelerates.
96% said skin felt smoother (4-week clinical study)Improved Firmness & Clarity
Long-term lactic acid use supports ceramide production and strengthens the skin barrier. Skin appears clearer, more resilient, and has a lasting healthy glow with sustained use.
Cumulative improvement in skin clarity and firmnessRatings by platform
730+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Delivers visible overnight brightness and glow
- Gentle enough for most skin types, including sensitive
- Fragrance-free and clean formula with no silicones
- Dual AHA + PHA approach for effective yet gentle exfoliation
- 4 molecular weights of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Allure Best of Beauty 2024 award winner
- Great retinol-rest-night alternative
Criticized
- Expensive at $75 for only 30 mL (1 oz)
- 9% concentration may be too mild for experienced acid users
- Not fungal acne safe (contains polysorbate 60, soybean oil)
- Results can be subtle compared to stronger AHAs like glycolic
- Small bottle runs out quickly with daily use
- Some users report no noticeable difference after several weeks
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher lactic acid concentration (10% vs 9%) with hyaluronic acid, but lacks the PHA component, multi-weight HA complex, and soothing botanical blend. More basic formula, but remarkably effective for the price.
Uses glycolic acid (8%) instead of lactic acid, which is slightly more potent but also more irritating. Larger 100 mL size is much better value. Lacks the PHA and multi-weight HA complex found in the Shani Darden formula.
K-beauty option with 7% glycolic acid (not lactic). Different acid type means different exfoliation profile. Larger 100 mL bottle provides great value but lacks the soothing complex and multi-HA hydration system.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly sealed when not in use to preserve active ingredient efficacy.
Airless pump bottle that protects the formula from oxidation and contamination, ensuring consistent dispensing from first to last use.
Yes, 30 mL is well under the 100 mL TSA carry-on limit. Travel size (10 mL) also available for $32.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum is considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Lactic acid (AHA) is generally regarded as safe for topical use during pregnancy. The brand explicitly markets this product as pregnancy-safe and recommends it as part of their pregnancy skincare routine. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare actives during pregnancy.
No, this serum is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 60 (a polysorbate emulsifier), Sorbitan Isostearate (an ester), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (a fatty acid ester), and Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% which has a simpler, fungal-acne-safe formula.
Do not use this serum on the same night as retinol or other AHA/BHA products. The brand recommends alternating nights: use retinol one night and lactic acid serum the next. For vitamin C, it is best used in the morning while this serum is for PM use only, so they can complement each other in a split AM/PM routine. Avoid layering multiple exfoliating actives to prevent over-exfoliation and barrier damage.
This serum works well for normal, oily, combination, and dry skin types. It is particularly excellent for combination and oily skin due to its lightweight, oil-free formula. Dry skin types will benefit from the hydrating properties of lactic acid and the quad hyaluronic acid complex but may need a richer moisturizer on top. Sensitive skin types can use it starting at 1–2 times per week with a patch test. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne.
Many users notice brighter, glowier skin after the very first use (overnight). In a 4-week clinical study with 35 participants, 100% reported brighter-looking skin overnight and less noticeable pores. Smoother texture and more even tone typically become apparent within 2–4 weeks of consistent use. For significant improvement in dark spots and overall skin clarity, allow 2–3 months of regular application.
Apply this serum in your PM routine after cleansing and toning, on clean and dry skin. It goes in the active/treatment step of your routine (step 3). Wait 5 minutes for it to absorb, then follow with your nighttime moisturizer. Use it on the nights you skip retinol. In the morning, always apply SPF as AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Do not layer with other exfoliating acids.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The formula is oil-free and lightweight, with only trace amounts of soybean oil far down the ingredient list. Lactic acid itself helps unclog pores by dissolving dead skin cell buildup. The vast majority of users will not experience pore congestion from this product. However, the small amount of Glycine Soja Oil has a medium comedogenic potential, so those extremely prone to clogged pores should patch test first.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The airless pump packaging helps protect the formula from air exposure and contamination, maintaining the efficacy of the active ingredients throughout the product's lifespan. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. At 1–2 pumps per night used 3–4 times per week, a 30 mL bottle typically lasts 2–3 months.
Verdict: The Shani Darden Lactic Acid AHA Exfoliating Serum is an elegantly formulated, gentle exfoliant that delivers on its promise of overnight brightness and smoother texture. The dual AHA/PHA approach paired with a quad-hyaluronic acid soothing complex sets it apart from basic lactic acid serums. It excels as a retinol-rest-night treatment and is an excellent pregnancy-safe active. However, the steep $75 price for just 30 mL is hard to justify when budget alternatives like The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA ($12) deliver similar core results. Best suited for those who value a premium, well-rounded formula with clinical backing and clean credentials, and who can invest in luxury skincare.
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 8 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 9 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|