Prism 12% AHA + 3% BHA Exfoliating Glow Serum
Prism 12% AHA + 3% BHA Exfoliating Glow Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A naturally-derived exfoliating glow serum combining a potent 12% AHA blend of bilberry lactic, sugar glycolic, and sugar maple malic acids with 3% willow bark BHA. Infused with Kakadu plum vitamin C, rosewater, and vegan hyaluronic acid, this lightweight leave-on treatment resurfaces, brightens, and hydrates skin for a smooth, radiant complexion.
12% Triple AHA Blend
A potent combination of bilberry lactic acid, sugar-derived glycolic acid, and sugar maple malic acid that gently resurfaces to reveal brighter, more even-toned skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY12% Triple AHA Blend
A potent combination of bilberry lactic acid, sugar-derived glycolic acid, and sugar maple malic acid that gently resurfaces to reveal brighter, more even-toned skin.
3% Natural Willow Bark BHA
Plant-based BHA from willow bark extract that clarifies skin and minimizes the appearance of pores without the harshness of synthetic salicylic acid.
Kakadu Plum Vitamin C
Terminalia ferdinandiana extract delivers one of the world's highest natural concentrations of vitamin C for antioxidant protection and brightening.
Rosewater + Aloe Base
Soothing rose hydrosol and aloe vera juice hydrate and calm skin during exfoliation, minimizing irritation while promoting a healthy glow.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 3% willow bark BHA, a natural precursor to salicylic acid. While gentler than synthetic salicylic acid, most dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, which is a ferment ingredient. While this specific ferment is antimicrobial and many FA communities consider it safe, those with severe fungal acne should patch test. No oils, fatty acids, or esters present.
Comedogenic rating 0/5. No pore-clogging oils, waxes, or silicones detected. Oil-free, water-based formula suitable for acne-prone skin.
100% vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients or testing. Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free brand.
AHAs and BHAs increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day when using this product. Avoid direct sun exposure.
Brief tingling upon application is normal. If persistent irritation or redness occurs, discontinue use. Sensitive skin types should start with 2x per week and gradually increase frequency.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAHA Blend (Bilberry, Sugar, Sugar Maple) 12%Proven
A trio of naturally-derived alpha hydroxy acids: bilberry lactic acid gently dissolves dead cell bonds, sugar-derived glycolic acid resurfaces for brightness, and sugar maple malic acid smooths uneven texture. Together they address dullness, hyperpigmentation, and rough skin.
- Glycolic Acid: The smallest AHA molecule, penetrating deeply for collagen stimulation and effective resurfacing. Clinically shown to improve photoaging and hyperpigmentation.
- Lactic Acid: Gently exfoliates while also boosting skin hydration. Better tolerated by sensitive skin compared to glycolic acid alone.
- Malic Acid: Provides additional exfoliation and enhances the efficacy of other AHAs when combined in a multi-acid formula.
Willow Bark BHA (Salix Nigra) 3%Proven
A natural, plant-derived beta hydroxy acid extracted from willow bark. Functions similarly to salicylic acid, penetrating into pores to clear excess sebum and dead cells, helping minimize pore appearance and prevent breakouts.
- Pore Clarifying: Oil-soluble BHA reaches inside pores to dissolve buildup, reducing congestion and visible pore size.
- Anti-inflammatory: Willow bark contains salicin, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe redness associated with breakouts.
Kakadu Plum Extract (Terminalia Ferdinandiana) ~1%Promising
Sourced from the native Australian Kakadu plum, which holds the world record for the highest natural concentration of vitamin C found in any fruit. Provides potent antioxidant protection and helps brighten the complexion.
- Vitamin C Content: Kakadu plum contains up to 100x more vitamin C than oranges, making it a powerful natural brightening and antioxidant ingredient.
- Brightening: Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, helping to fade dark spots and even out skin tone over consistent use.
Gluconolactone (PHA) ~0.5%Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA), which is a next-generation chemical exfoliant. Provides gentle exfoliation, antioxidant protection, and humectant moisturizing properties without the irritation potential of traditional AHAs.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Larger molecular size means slower, more even penetration compared to AHAs, reducing irritation risk while still promoting cell turnover.
- Hydration Boost: Stimulates the skin's own production of hyaluronic acid, improving hydration from within.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.3%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, capable of binding up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides intense hydration to counterbalance the potential drying effects of exfoliating acids, keeping skin plump and moisturized during resurfacing.
- Deep Hydration: Smaller molecular weight than hyaluronic acid, allowing it to penetrate deeper into skin for hydration at multiple levels.
- Barrier Support: Helps reinforce the skin's moisture barrier, which is especially important when using exfoliating actives.
Rosa Damascena Flower Water ~8%Promising
Rose hydrosol provides a micro-dose of rose essential oil's soothing properties without causing sensitization. Calms and hydrates the skin while providing the serum's delicate natural floral scent.
- Soothing: Contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds that help calm skin during the exfoliation process, reducing potential redness.
- Antioxidant: Rose water has been shown to possess antioxidant activity, helping to protect against free radical damage.
16 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aqua/Water/Eau, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Glycerin, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract, Gluconolactone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Phytate, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse at night only, 2-5 times per week. Avoid combining with other exfoliating treatments (retinol, other AHA/BHA products) in the same routine. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with a clean, dry face. Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Apply 4-8 Drops
Dispense 4-8 drops of Prism serum onto clean fingertips. Gently press and massage into the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Brief tingling upon application is normal.
Leave On & Follow Up
This is a leave-on treatment — do not rinse off. Allow to absorb fully, then follow with a facial oil (such as Herbivore Lapis or Orchid Oil) or your regular moisturizer.
Build Up Gradually
Start with 2 nights per week and gradually work up to nightly use as your skin adjusts. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency. Always apply sunscreen the following morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a natural, plant-based chemical exfoliant
- You struggle with dullness, uneven skin tone, or dark spots
- You have enlarged or congested pores
- You prefer clean beauty without synthetic ingredients
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin
- You want a gentle multi-acid treatment that also hydrates
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains BHA)
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin (patch test first)
- You want a high-concentration peel for immediate dramatic results
- You are looking for a budget-friendly option (premium pricing at $54/oz)
- You need a rinse-off exfoliant rather than a leave-on treatment
- You prefer fragrance-free products (contains natural rose scent)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, water-based formula absorbs quickly. The BHA component helps regulate excess sebum and clear congested pores. Ideal match for oily skin types.
Multi-acid formula addresses both oily T-zone congestion (via BHA) and dry areas (via AHA resurfacing and hyaluronic acid hydration). Works well across different face zones.
Maintains healthy glow and smooth texture. The gentle exfoliation promotes cell turnover to keep complexion bright and even without over-stripping.
Aloe, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid provide hydration during exfoliation. However, dry skin types should use less frequently (2-3x/week) and follow with a rich moisturizer or facial oil.
The 12% AHA concentration is moderate-to-high. Sensitive skin should always patch test first and begin with 1-2 uses per week. The PHA and aloe base help buffer irritation, but some tingling is expected.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), oil-free, with BHA for pore clearing and AHA for surface renewal. Targets acne scars, blemishes, and congestion without clogging pores.
Results timeline
WEEKS 6-8Immediate Glow & Smoothness
Skin feels noticeably smoother after first application. A subtle dewy glow appears the morning after use. Mild tingling during application is normal and indicates the acids are working.
80% noticed after first useTexture Refinement
Skin texture begins to even out as dead cell buildup is cleared. Minor breakouts or purging may occur as congested pores are cleaned out. Skin starts to look brighter and more radiant overall.
65% noticed improved texturePore Minimization & Clarity
Visible reduction in pore appearance and skin congestion. Blemishes begin to clear and skin tone becomes more even. The combination of AHA surface resurfacing and BHA pore-clearing produces clearer, more refined skin.
70% noticed smaller-looking poresDark Spot Fading & Radiance
Consistent use leads to visible fading of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Skin has a sustained healthy glow and improved overall clarity. Full benefits of the multi-acid formula become apparent.
60% noticed fading dark spotsRatings by platform
493+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 100% natural, plant-derived ingredients — no synthetics at all
- Non-irritating for most skin types despite 15% total acid concentration
- Immediate visible glow and smoother skin after first use
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that layers well
- Non-comedogenic (0/5) — safe for acne-prone skin
- Beautiful holographic UV-protective glass bottle
- Hydrating formula with aloe, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid
- Clean, short ingredient list (only 16 ingredients)
Criticized
- Premium price at $54 for only 30 mL (1 oz)
- Slow or minimal results for stubborn dark spots and melasma
- Some users find it sticky or tacky, especially on oily skin
- Natural fruit acids may be less potent than purified acid formulas
- Light floral rose scent may bother fragrance-sensitive users
- Small bottle runs out quickly with daily use (4-8 drops per application)
- Limited availability — previously discontinued and may be hard to find
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Much higher acid concentration (30% AHA + 2% BHA) in a rinse-off mask format. More intense exfoliation but uses synthetic acids. Not a daily leave-on treatment — use once weekly for 10 minutes max. Not for sensitive skin or acid beginners.
An overnight AHA/BHA treatment with glycolic and salicylic acids plus hyaluronic acid. Leave-on format like Prism but uses synthetic acids. Much more affordable but lacks the all-natural, plant-based formulation.
A gentle AHA/BHA toner with apple water and willow bark extract. Much lower acid concentration makes it milder and better for beginners. Larger 150 mL bottle offers better value, but less effective for stubborn dullness or hyperpigmentation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store upright in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight. The holographic UV-protective glass bottle helps preserve formula stability.
Holographic UV-protective glass bottle with dropper. Preserves formula integrity and prevents light-induced degradation of active acids.
Yes, 30 mL is under the 100 mL carry-on limit. Glass bottle — handle with care during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. Prism contains 3% willow bark-derived BHA, which is a natural precursor to salicylic acid. While willow bark BHA is generally considered gentler than pure synthetic salicylic acid, most dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA products during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. The AHA ingredients (lactic, glycolic, malic acids) are generally considered lower-risk at moderate concentrations, but the combination with BHA warrants a conversation with your healthcare provider before use.
Mostly yes, with one caveat. Prism contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates — the primary triggers for malassezia. However, it does contain Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, which is a ferment-based ingredient. This specific ferment is antimicrobial in nature and is used as a natural preservative. Many fungal acne community members and Amazon reviewers specifically confirm using Prism as part of their FA-safe routine with great success. If you have severe fungal acne, patch test first to be sure.
Use caution when layering actives. Prism already contains a significant concentration of acids (15% total AHA + BHA), so layering additional AHA/BHA products in the same routine is not recommended. For retinol: alternate nights rather than using both on the same evening to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. For vitamin C: use vitamin C in the morning and Prism at night for the best results without conflict. Herbivore recommends pairing Prism with their Bakuchiol (retinol alternative) serum, which can be applied together or on alternating nights.
Prism is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types. It is particularly effective for acne-prone skin thanks to its non-comedogenic, oil-free formula and pore-clearing BHA. Dry skin types can use it but should apply less frequently (2-3x/week) and follow with a heavier moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should always patch test first and start slowly with 1-2 uses per week. The brand states it is suitable for all skin types with appropriate use.
Most users report an immediate visible glow and smoother skin texture after the very first application. Noticeable improvement in skin texture and pore appearance typically takes 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation requires 6-8 weeks or more of regular use. Some reviewers note that while the glow effect is immediate and satisfying, stubborn dark spots and melasma may require stronger formulations or longer treatment periods.
Apply Prism after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, facial oils, and moisturizers. The recommended routine order is: Cleanser, Toner, Prism Serum, Facial Oil or Serum, Moisturizer. Use at nighttime only, as the exfoliating acids increase photosensitivity. Always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning. Do not combine with other exfoliating treatments in the same routine.
No. Prism has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 — no pore-clogging ingredients have been detected in the formula. It is entirely oil-free, silicone-free, and wax-free. The water-based formula with BHA actually helps to unclog and clear pores. Multiple independent ingredient analysis sites confirm zero comedogenic ingredients. It is one of the cleanest formulas available for acne-prone skin.
Prism has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The holographic UV-protective glass bottle helps preserve the formula's stability and prevent degradation of the active acids. Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. At the recommended usage of 4-8 drops, 2-5 nights per week, the 30 mL bottle typically lasts 2-3 months depending on frequency of use.
Verdict: Herbivore Prism 12% AHA + 3% BHA Exfoliating Glow Serum is a premium, all-natural chemical exfoliant that delivers a noticeable immediate glow and smooth skin texture. Its clean, 16-ingredient formula with zero comedogenic ingredients makes it an excellent choice for acne-prone and oily skin types who prioritize natural, plant-based skincare. The combination of multi-acid exfoliation with soothing rosewater and hyaluronic acid creates a well-balanced formula that is surprisingly gentle for its potency. However, the steep price of $54 for just 30 mL, limited effectiveness on stubborn hyperpigmentation, and the availability of highly effective budget alternatives (like The Ordinary at $7.20) prevent it from earning a perfect score. Best for clean beauty enthusiasts who value natural sourcing and a minimal ingredient list over maximum acid potency.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Rosa Damascena Flower Water
Masking, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract
Astringent, Refreshing, Skin Conditioning, Tonic
|
|