Retin-A Micro 0.04%
Retin-A Micro 0.04%
Product Description
Product overview
Retin-A Micro 0.04% by Bausch Health is a prescription-strength tretinoin gel that uses patented MICROSPONGE® technology to release the active ingredient gradually into the skin. This time-release system delivers gold-standard retinoid power for treating acne and signs of photoaging while reducing the irritation typically associated with topical tretinoin. The 0.04% strength is the lowest in the Retin-A Micro line, making it ideal for first-time retinoid users or those with sensitive skin.
Microsponge® Time-Release
Patented porous microspheres slowly release tretinoin over hours, dramatically reducing irritation versus standard tretinoin formulas.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMicrosponge® Time-Release
Patented porous microspheres slowly release tretinoin over hours, dramatically reducing irritation versus standard tretinoin formulas.
Beginner-Friendly Strength
At 0.04%, this is the lowest concentration in the Retin-A Micro line — ideal for retinoid newcomers or sensitive skin types.
Gold-Standard Anti-Aging
Tretinoin is the only FDA-approved topical retinoid clinically proven to reverse signs of photoaging — fine lines, sun spots, and uneven texture.
Dual-Action: Acne + Aging
Treats inflammatory and comedonal acne while simultaneously smoothing texture, fading hyperpigmentation, and stimulating collagen.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical tretinoin is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discontinue immediately if pregnancy is suspected.
Contains no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne sufferers.
Oil-free aqueous gel base will not clog pores. Tretinoin actually unclogs existing comedones.
Tretinoin makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory.
BP can deactivate tretinoin. Use BP in the AM and tretinoin at PM, or alternate nights.
Do not apply with AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C in the same routine. Risk of severe irritation and barrier damage.
Acne may worsen during weeks 2–6 as deeper congestion is brought to the surface. This typically resolves by week 8–12.
FDA-approved for adults and adolescents 12 years and older only.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTretinoin 0.04%Proven
The only FDA-approved topical retinoid that is itself active retinoic acid — no enzymatic conversion needed. Binds directly to retinoic acid receptors (RAR) in skin cells, accelerating cell turnover, normalizing keratinization in pores, and stimulating collagen synthesis.
- Mechanism: Binds retinoic acid receptors (RAR-α, RAR-β, RAR-γ) to regulate gene expression in keratinocytes.
- Clinical evidence: 19% of subjects in pivotal trials achieved an "excellent" treatment outcome at 12 weeks, versus 9% on vehicle (FDA Study 4).
- Delivery: Encapsulated in methyl methacrylate/glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer microspheres for time-release.
Glycerin ~2-5%Proven
A humectant that draws water into the upper skin layers, helping offset the drying effects of tretinoin. Supports the skin barrier during retinoid acclimation.
- Function: Hydrating humectant that binds water molecules to the stratum corneum.
- Synergy: Helps mitigate the dryness, peeling, and tightness commonly experienced in early tretinoin use.
Carbomer (934P & 974P) ~0.1%Proven
A high-molecular-weight acrylic acid polymer that thickens the formula into a smooth, spreadable gel. Inert and non-penetrating — purely a texture agent.
- Function: Gel-forming thickener and stabilizer.
- Safety: Considered non-irritating; minimal skin penetration due to large molecular size.
Cyclomethicone & Dimethicone Copolyol TraceProven
Volatile silicones that give the gel its smooth, silky glide and help carry the active ingredient evenly across the skin. They evaporate without leaving residue.
- Function: Spreading and carrier agents for even tretinoin distribution.
- Texture: Responsible for the lightweight, non-greasy feel of the formula.
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) TraceProven
An antioxidant preservative that protects tretinoin — which is highly unstable and oxidation-prone — from degrading on contact with air and light.
- Function: Free-radical scavenger that extends product shelf life.
- Why it matters: Tretinoin loses potency rapidly when oxidized; BHT is critical for efficacy.
Propylene Glycol & PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether Distearate Solvent baseProven
Solvents and emollients that solubilize tretinoin and provide a smooth, even application. PPG-20 also conditions the skin to soften the texture.
- Function: Active solubilizer, humectant, and emollient.
- Note: Propylene glycol can be a sensitizer in a small percentage of users with very reactive skin.
Benzyl Alcohol & Sorbic Acid PreservativeProven
A mild preservative system that prevents microbial growth in the water-based formula. Generally well-tolerated, though benzyl alcohol may bother very sensitive skin.
- Function: Broad-spectrum preservation against bacteria, yeast, and mold.
- Concentration: Used at low, cosmetically-safe levels.
Triethanolamine & Disodium EDTA TraceProven
Triethanolamine adjusts the formula's pH to a stable, skin-friendly range; Disodium EDTA chelates trace metal ions that would otherwise destabilize tretinoin.
- Function: pH buffer and chelating stabilizer.
- Why it matters: Tretinoin requires precise pH and metal-free conditions to remain potent.
12 ingredients
Active: Tretinoin 0.04%. Inactive: Purified Water, Carbomer 934P, Carbomer 974P, Glycerin, Disodium EDTA, Propylene Glycol, Sorbic Acid, PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether Distearate, Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Benzyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine (Trolamine), Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT). Delivered via methyl methacrylate/glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer Microsponge® system.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThe 20-minute "drying window" between cleansing and applying tretinoin significantly reduces irritation. PM use only — daily mineral or chemical broad-spectrum SPF in the morning is non-negotiable.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash face with a mild, non-medicated, sulfate-free cleanser. Pat dry — do not rub.
Wait 20 Minutes
Skin must be completely dry. Applying tretinoin to damp skin dramatically increases irritation.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense one pea-sized dot for the entire face. More product does NOT mean faster results — only more irritation.
Spread Thinly
Dot across forehead, cheeks, and chin, then gently spread. Avoid eye area, lips, and corners of the nose.
Buffer With Moisturizer (Optional)
For sensitive skin, follow with a bland moisturizer 5-10 minutes later to reduce irritation. "Sandwich method" works for very reactive skin.
Start Slowly
Begin with 2-3 nights per week for the first 2-4 weeks, then build to nightly use as tolerance develops.
Sunscreen Every Morning
Tretinoin increases UV sensitivity. Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory — even on cloudy days and indoors near windows.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory or comedonal acne
- You're new to tretinoin and want the lowest entry strength
- Your skin is sensitive and reacts to standard tretinoin gel/cream
- You want to address early signs of aging — fine lines, texture, dark spots
- You're committed to nightly use and daily SPF for at least 12 weeks
- You have oily or combination skin (the gel base suits oilier skin best)
- You suffer from fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe active
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive
- You have eczema, severe rosacea, or a compromised skin barrier
- You have very dry skin (Retin-A Micro Cream may be gentler)
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen use
- You want overnight results — tretinoin takes 12+ weeks
- You have severe nodular/cystic acne (consider oral isotretinoin)
- You're under 12 years of age
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe lightweight, oil-free gel base absorbs without adding shine and helps regulate sebum production over time.
Effective but drying. Use the buffer/sandwich method with moisturizer; consider Retin-A Micro Cream as a gentler alternative.
Ideal balance — controls oily zones while gel base is light enough not to overwhelm drier areas with proper moisturizing.
Microsponge® time-release reduces irritation versus standard tretinoin. 0.04% is the lowest strength — start with 2x weekly.
Gold-standard acne treatment. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, treats both inflammatory and comedonal acne.
Only FDA-approved topical for photoaging. Smooths fine lines, fades sunspots, stimulates collagen — gold standard at any age.
Results timeline
MONTH 6-12+Adjustment Phase
Mild dryness, tightness, and possible flaking. Skin is acclimating to the active. About 6% of users report skin irritation in clinical trials at this strength.
95% experience some adjustmentPurge Phase
Existing congestion deep in pores rises to the surface. Acne may temporarily worsen — this is expected and signals the medication is working.
~60% experience purgingVisible Clearing
Acne lesions reduce significantly, skin texture begins to smooth, and overall complexion brightens. FDA trials show measurable improvement at this stage.
~70% report meaningful improvementEstablished Benefits
Pores appear smaller, hyperpigmentation fades, fine lines visibly soften. Skin reaches a "tretinoin glow" of consistent radiance and even tone.
~85% see clear improvementLong-Term Transformation
Significant collagen remodeling, near-complete acne control, sustained reduction in fine lines and sun damage. Long-term users report lasting changes.
~90% maintain clear skin with continued useRatings by platform
200+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Microsponge® time-release dramatically lowers irritation vs. standard tretinoin
- Lowest concentration in the line — perfect for retinoid beginners
- Treats both acne and signs of aging simultaneously
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, fungal-acne safe
- Pump packaging keeps tretinoin stable and protected from light/air
- FDA-approved with decades of clinical evidence behind it
- Long-term users report dramatic, lasting skin transformation
Criticized
- Prescription-only — requires a dermatologist or telehealth consultation
- Expensive without insurance ($400-700+ per pump in the U.S.)
- Causes initial purge that lasts 4-8 weeks for many users
- Drying for already-dry skin types — gel base less hydrating than cream
- Mandatory daily SPF commitment
- Cannot be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Slow results — minimum 12 weeks for visible change
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESBioequivalent generic of Retin-A Micro 0.04%. Same active concentration, same Microsponge® delivery, identical FDA-approved formula. Often covered by insurance with low copay.
Third-generation OTC retinoid available without prescription. Slower-acting and slightly less potent for anti-aging, but excellent for acne with less irritation. Pregnancy still contraindicated.
OTC retinoid (HPR + retinol) with no prescription needed. Far gentler with minimal purging, but takes longer to see results and is less effective against active acne.
High-strength OTC retinol that converts to retinoic acid in the skin. Less direct than tretinoin (multi-step conversion), but easier to access and well-formulated with antioxidants.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Aklief (Trifarotene 0.005%)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard any unused product after one year.
Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep tightly closed, away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Do not refrigerate.
Airless pump (20g or 45g) — protects tretinoin from light and air oxidation. Store pump upright.
Yes — under 100ml, TSA-compliant. Keep in original packaging for prescription verification at customs.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Topical tretinoin is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While systemic absorption is low, tretinoin belongs to the retinoid class, and oral retinoids are well-documented teratogens. Thirty cases of congenital malformations have been reported during clinical use of Retin-A Micro (though no causal relationship has been established). Discontinue immediately if you become pregnant or are trying to conceive, and consult your dermatologist about pregnancy-safe alternatives like azelaic acid 15-20%.
Yes. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, or polysorbates — the ingredient categories that feed Malassezia yeast. Tretinoin itself helps normalize keratinization in pores, which can also reduce conditions favorable to fungal acne. This makes Retin-A Micro 0.04% one of the safer prescription topicals for those dealing with concurrent fungal acne and bacterial acne.
Use with caution and never simultaneously. Do NOT layer retinol on top of tretinoin — you're already using the strongest retinoid available. Avoid applying AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C (especially L-ascorbic acid) in the same routine as tretinoin to prevent severe irritation and barrier damage. If you want to use both, alternate nights or use vitamin C in the morning and tretinoin at night. Avoid benzoyl peroxide simultaneously, as it can deactivate tretinoin — separate them by at least an hour or alternate days.
Retin-A Micro 0.04% performs best onoily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, oil-free gel base. It's also an excellent introduction for those with sensitive skin or first-time retinoid users, since the Microsponge® time-release system reduces irritation versus standard tretinoin. Very dry skin types may find the gel too drying — Retin-A Micro Cream or Altreno (tretinoin lotion) may be better alternatives. Mature skin benefits significantly from the anti-aging effects.
According to FDA labeling, improvements in acne lesions may be noticed after2 weeks of therapy, but more than7 weeks may be needed for sustained benefit. Most users experience: weeks 1-2 (adjustment, dryness), weeks 2-6 (purge phase, possible breakouts), weeks 6-12 (visible clearing), and 3-6 months (texture refinement, brightening). Anti-aging benefits — fine line reduction, collagen stimulation — typically take 6-12 months of consistent use to become apparent.
Retin-A Micro is aPM-only treatment. The correct routine order is: 1) gentle cleanser, 2) wait 20 minutes for skin to fully dry (critical for reducing irritation), 3) apply pea-sized amount of Retin-A Micro, 4) wait 5-10 minutes, 5) apply a bland moisturizer to seal in. In the morning: cleanse, hydrate, and ALWAYS apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as tretinoin significantly increases sun sensitivity. The "sandwich method" (moisturizer → tretinoin → moisturizer) works well for sensitive skin.
No — it's rated 0/5 (non-comedogenic). The formula uses an oil-free aqueous gel base with no comedogenic ingredients. In fact, tretinoin actively unclogs existing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by normalizing keratinization within follicles. This is why the "purge" happens — deeper congestion is brought to the surface during the first 4-6 weeks. Long-term, Retin-A Micro reduces pore appearance and prevents new comedones from forming.
12 months (PAO 12M) after opening is the standard guideline. Tretinoin is highly unstable and degrades when exposed to air, light, and heat — this is why Retin-A Micro is housed in an opaque airless pump. Always store the pump upright at 20-25°C (68-77°F), away from windows, bathrooms with humidity, and heat sources. Do not refrigerate. Discard if the gel changes color (yellowing significantly), becomes runny, or develops an odor — these are signs of oxidative degradation.
Verdict: Retin-A Micro 0.04% by Bausch Health remains the gold-standard entry point into prescription tretinoin. The patented Microsponge® time-release technology delivers the proven benefits of FDA-approved retinoic acid — clearer skin, smoother texture, faded hyperpigmentation, and softened fine lines — with significantly less irritation than standard tretinoin formulations. The 0.04% strength is the lowest in the line, making it ideal for first-time retinoid users, sensitive skin, and oily/combination skin types. The trade-offs are real: it requires a prescription, can be costly without insurance, and demands a 12-week commitment with mandatory daily SPF. But for those willing to invest the time and consistency, this is one of the most effective skincare products in existence — backed by decades of clinical evidence.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclomethicone
Antistatic Agent, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Humectant, Solvent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|