Redness Reform Soothing Serum
Redness Reform Soothing Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed redness-relieving serum that optically reduces visible redness and irritation. Formulated with a clinically-proven blend of soothing molecules, arnica, oat kernel extract, and Vitamin F to calm and comfort reactive, sensitive skin while supporting the skin barrier.
Soothing Molecules Blend
Custom advanced molecule blend inspired by nature with significant soothing benefits for topical redness relief.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSoothing Molecules Blend
Custom advanced molecule blend inspired by nature with significant soothing benefits for topical redness relief.
Barrier Support
Vitamin F (linoleic and linolenic acids) supports and restores the skin's lipid barrier function.
Optical Redness Correction
Green pigments (Chromium Oxide Greens) help optically neutralize visible redness on contact.
Cooling Hydration
90% of users reported an instant cooling sensation with no stickiness or residue.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains licorice root extract and glycolic acid (used as pH balancer). Consult your physician before use during pregnancy.
Contains oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid which may trigger fungal acne in sensitive individuals.
National Rosacea Society Seal of Acceptance. Clinically tested on rosacea patients with 35% reduction in visible redness.
National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Safe for sensitive, eczema-prone skin conditions.
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and allergy-tested. pH-stabilized formula designed for reactive skin.
Contains dimethicone (2nd ingredient). Some individuals with very sensitive skin may experience irritation from silicones.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSOat Kernel Extract (Avena Sativa)Proven
Colloidal oatmeal derivative rich in beta-glucan and avenanthramides. FDA-approved skin protectant with powerful anti-inflammatory and barrier-repairing properties.
- Function: Anti-irritant, antioxidant, and skin protectant
- Evidence: FDA OTC Skin Protectant monograph approved ingredient
- Benefits: Soothes itching, reduces inflammation, binds water for hydration
Beta-Glucan & Magnesium Carboxymethyl Beta-GlucanProven
Dual-form beta-glucan complex providing intensive skin repair and wound healing properties with proven anti-aging benefits.
- Study: 0.1% concentration showed significant wrinkle depth reduction after 8 weeks
- Penetration: Smaller fractions penetrate into the dermis despite large molecular size
- Benefits: Soothes, moisturizes, promotes wound healing, reduces skin roughness
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid (SymCalmin)Proven
Synthetic avenanthramide analog that mimics the soothing compound found in oats with enhanced stability and efficacy.
- Clinical Study: Double-blind, 40 people, 4 weeks - 65% reduction in itchiness
- Redness Reduction: 50% visible redness reduction in clinical trials
- Trade Name: SymCalmin at 2% concentration
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate ~0.5%Proven
Active compound from licorice root with anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing, and sebum-regulating properties.
- Source: Salt form of glycyrrhizic acid from licorice plant
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, brightening, helps even skin tone
- Bonus: Sebum-regulating properties beneficial for combination skin
Linoleic Acid (Vitamin F) 1.5-1.8%Proven
Essential omega-6 fatty acid that repairs skin barrier, reduces acne, and helps lighten hyperpigmentation.
- Acne Study: 2.5% gel for 4 weeks showed 25% reduction in microcomedones
- Barrier Repair: Replenishes depleted lipids in compromised skin
- Brightening: Blocks melanin production and enhances pigment desquamation
Arnica Montana Flower ExtractTraditional
Mountain flower extract traditionally used in herbal medicine for centuries, though clinical evidence for topical skin benefits is limited.
- Traditional Use: Centuries of use for bruising and inflammation
- Properties: Anti-inflammatory and soothing
BisabololProven
Active compound from chamomile with excellent anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
- Source: Derived from chamomile (contains ~30% bisabolol)
- Benefits: Calms irritation, reduces redness, gentle on sensitive skin
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) 0.45-0.65%Proven
Humectant with intensive skin repairing, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Hydration: Attracts and retains moisture in skin
- Healing: Promotes fibroblast proliferation for wound healing
- Protection: Reduces irritation from other ingredients in formulations
41 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Propanediol, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Hydroxyacetophenone, Linoleic Acid, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Beta-Glucan, Magnesium Carboxymethyl Beta-Glucan, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Piperonyl Glucoside, Carbomer, Polysilicone-11, Panthenol, Bisabolol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Algin, Xanthan Gum, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Tocopherol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid, Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288), Linolenic Acid, Citric Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Phenoxyethanol, Glycolic Acid, Galactoarabinan, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to dry, cleansed skin before moisturizer. Use AM and/or PM. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser like Prequel Gleanser for best results.
Dispense
Pump one full press of serum onto fingertips. One pump is sufficient for full face coverage.
Apply
Gently spread evenly across face, focusing on areas of redness. Pat gently to help absorption.
Follow Up
Allow to absorb for 30-60 seconds. Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen (AM routine).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have rosacea-prone skin with frequent flushing
- You experience post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) from acne
- Your skin is sensitive and reactive to most products
- You need fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare
- You want visible redness reduction without heavy makeup
- You have eczema and need a gentle soothing serum
- You want a cooling, instantly calming sensation
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) concerns
- Your skin is sensitive to silicones (dimethicone)
- You need heavy-duty hydration (this is lightweight)
- You want active anti-aging benefits
- You prefer silicone-free formulas
- You need prescription-strength rosacea treatment
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and clinically tested on reactive skin types.
National Rosacea Society Seal of Acceptance. Clinical studies show 35% reduction in redness and 42% reduction in flushing severity.
Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding oil. Dipotassium glycyrrhizate helps regulate sebum production.
Provides hydration through glycerin and panthenol, but may need a richer moisturizer on top for very dry skin.
Non-comedogenic and lightweight. Absorbs without greasiness. Some users with very oily skin find it slightly hydrating.
Non-comedogenic formula. Linoleic acid helps reduce clogged pores. Clinical study showed 41% reduction in facial acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 4 (28 DAYS)Instant Soothing & Cooling
Skin feels immediately calmed with a cooling sensation. Visible redness optically reduced by green pigments on contact.
96% felt skin soothed after 1 useReduced Reactivity
Skin begins to feel less reactive to triggers. Visible improvement in overall skin comfort and hydration.
90% felt cooling sensationVisible Redness Improvement
Noticeable reduction in baseline redness. Flushing episodes become less intense and less frequent.
35% reduction in visible redness (clinical study)Transformed Skin Tone
Significant improvement in overall skin tone evenness. Skin barrier strengthened. Reduced sensitivity to triggers.
100% agreed skin felt soothed & hydratedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instant cooling and soothing sensation upon application
- Visible reduction in redness for rosacea sufferers
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating formula
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture with no stickiness
- Dermatologist-developed with clinical backing
- Dual Seal of Acceptance (NRS + NEA)
- Affordable price point at $19.99
- Works well under makeup and sunscreen
- Effective for sensitive and eczema-prone skin
Criticized
- Small 1oz bottle runs out quickly with daily use
- Pump packaging leaves product inaccessible at bottom
- Contains silicones which some users react to
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- May not work for all types of redness
- Temporary optical correction vs. long-term treatment
- Some users found it insufficiently hydrating alone
- A few reports of increased redness (rare)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Different active (azelaic acid) but similarly targets redness and uneven tone. Grittier texture. Proven for rosacea but may cause mild tingling. More exfoliating action.
Multipurpose repair balm with madecassoside (Centella) and panthenol. Thicker, richer texture. Better for dry skin but less specific redness-targeting. No optical color correction.
Contains ceramides and niacinamide for barrier repair and redness reduction. Heavier texture designed for PM use. Less immediate redness correction, more barrier focus.
Higher-end alternative with similar soothing approach. Contains willow bark extract and allantoin. Silicone-free formula. More hydrating but pricier option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Airless pump bottle in opaque container to protect active ingredients from oxidation
Yes, TSA-compliant at 1 fl oz / 30ml. Pump design prevents spills.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The serum contains licorice root extract (dipotassium glycyrrhizate) and glycolic acid (used as a pH balancer in small amounts). While the brand states it should be safe, we recommend consulting your physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The glycolic acid is incidental and not present at active exfoliating levels.
No, this serum is not fungal acne safe. It contains oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and linoleic acid - fatty acids that can feed malassezia yeast and potentially trigger fungal acne flare-ups in sensitive individuals. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Azelaic Acid or a simple niacinamide serum.
Yes, you can use this serum with most actives, but introduce slowly. For retinol: apply Redness Reform first for soothing, then retinol. For Vitamin C: use Vitamin C in AM and Redness Reform in PM, or layer with Redness Reform first. For AHA/BHA: use on alternate nights initially, as the serum contains trace glycolic acid. If using with Prequel's own Lucent-C serum, patch test first as recommended by the brand.
This serum is best for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and eczema-prone skin types. It's excellent for combination skin due to its lightweight texture and sebum-regulating ingredients. It works well for dry skin when paired with a moisturizer, and is suitable for oily skin as it's non-comedogenic and absorbs quickly. Those with fungal acne should avoid it.
You'll see immediate optical redness reduction from the green pigments upon first application. 96% of users reported soothed skin after just one use. For long-term improvement, clinical studies showed significant results at 28 days: 100% agreed skin felt soothed and hydrated, 90% felt neutralized skin redness, and 84% felt their skin was less reactive. Visible redness reduction of 35% was observed in clinical trials after consistent use.
Apply to dry, cleansed skin as step 3 in your routine - after cleanser and toner, but before heavier serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. You can use it both morning and evening. 35% of the SkinSort community uses it twice daily, while 95% use it every day. Always follow with moisturizer and SPF in your morning routine.
No, this serum is non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). It's been clinically tested and labeled as non-comedogenic by the brand. The linoleic acid content actually helps reduce clogged pores. However, if you're sensitive to silicones (dimethicone is the 2nd ingredient), you may want to patch test first. Clinical studies showed a 41% reduction in facial acne when used as part of a regimen.
The serum has a 12-month (12M) period after opening (PAO). The 1 fl oz bottle typically lasts 4-8 weeks with twice-daily use (1 pump per application). Many users note the pump design makes it difficult to access the last bit of product - you can remove the pump and tip the bottle to get the remaining serum. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: Prequel Redness Reform Soothing Serum is an effective, affordable solution for those struggling with facial redness, particularly rosacea sufferers. Its dual Seal of Acceptance from the National Rosacea Society and National Eczema Association, combined with impressive clinical results (90% felt neutralized redness, 35% measured reduction), make it a standout choice. The dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free formula with oat extract, beta-glucan, and Vitamin F delivers immediate soothing with long-term benefits. Minor drawbacks include the small bottle size, pump design issues, and unsuitability for fungal acne-prone skin. At $19.99, it offers excellent value compared to premium alternatives like Dr. Jart+ Cicapair ($48) while delivering comparable results. Highly recommended for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and reactive skin types seeking visible redness reduction without prescription treatments.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|