Retinol Serum
Retinol Serum
Product Description
Product overview
The INKEY List Retinol Anti-Aging Serum is a slow-release, lightweight cream-serum combining stabilised Retinyl Acetate with 0.5% Granactive Retinoid (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) to gently target fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone and hyperpigmentation — while peptides, squalane and hyaluronic acid keep the skin calm and hydrated. A cult-favourite affordable retinol from British science-led brand The INKEY List, designed for both beginners and experienced users.
Dual Retinoid System
Combines stabilised Retinyl Acetate with 0.5% Granactive Retinoid (HPR) — two forms of vitamin A working at different skin depths.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Retinoid System
Combines stabilised Retinyl Acetate with 0.5% Granactive Retinoid (HPR) — two forms of vitamin A working at different skin depths.
Slow-Release Technology
Retinoids encapsulated for gradual release, delivering results with significantly less irritation than standard retinol.
Hydration Built-In
Squalane, hyaluronic acid and phospholipids offset retinol's drying nature — a gentler introduction to vitamin A.
Peptide Support
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Tetrapeptide-7 help support collagen signalling and skin firmness alongside the retinoids.
Dermatologist-Level Value
Retinoid technology typically found in $60+ serums, available at an entry-level price under $15.
Award-Winning Formula
Winner of the Allure Best of Beauty Award and a long-standing bestseller at Sephora, Ulta and on Amazon.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains retinoids (Retinyl Acetate and Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate). The brand explicitly advises against use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for safer alternatives like bakuchiol or azelaic acid.
Contains polysorbates, esters, glycerides, soy sterols and phospholipids that may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Squalane, dimethicone and the overall formula are low-pore-clogging. Generally safe for acne-prone skin (non-fungal acne).
Retinoids thin the skin's surface and increase UV sensitivity. Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential every morning — no exceptions.
Do not layer with glycolic, lactic or salicylic acid in the same routine. Vitamin C is best used AM, retinol PM. Alternate nights with exfoliating acids.
No fragrance, essential oils, parabens, sulfates, phthalates or mineral oil. Formulated with sensitivity in mind.
The INKEY List does not test on animals. While most ingredients are plant or synthetic-derived, the brand is not currently certified vegan.
Mild dryness, flaking, redness or purging can occur as skin adjusts. Reduce frequency if irritation persists and always moisturise afterward.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinyl Acetate (RetiStar Stabilised Retinol) ~1% (≈0.05% active retinol equivalent)Proven
A stabilised form of retinol (vitamin A) bound to acetic acid. Once absorbed, it converts to retinol and then retinoic acid in the skin, boosting cell turnover, smoothing fine lines, fading pigmentation and supporting collagen production.
- Gold standard: Retinoids are the most evidence-backed anti-aging ingredient in over-the-counter skincare (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology).
- BASF RetiStar: The stabilised complex reduces oxidation, making the retinol more stable and gentler on skin than free retinol.
- Clinical effects: With consistent use, retinol is shown to reduce fine lines, even tone and improve skin texture within 12 weeks.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (Granactive Retinoid) 0.5%Promising
A next-generation retinoic acid ester that works directly on retinoid receptors without needing conversion — delivering results comparable to retinol but with far less irritation, dryness or peeling.
- Direct activity: Unlike retinol, HPR binds to retinoid receptors in the skin without requiring conversion to retinoic acid.
- Estée Lauder study: In vitro, HPR outperformed retinyl palmitate and matched retinol in collagen-related gene transcription.
- Tolerance: Clinical data suggests HPR can be used at higher concentrations than retinol with minimal irritation.
Squalane ~1–3%Proven
A plant-derived, non-greasy emollient that mimics skin's natural sebum — locking in moisture, softening texture and buffering the drying effect of retinoids.
- Biomimetic lipid: Structurally similar to skin's own squalene, so it absorbs readily without clogging pores.
- Comedogenic rating: 0–1 (considered non-comedogenic).
- Retinol buffer: Frequently paired with retinoids to reduce transepidermal water loss and irritation.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 & Tetrapeptide-7 <1%Promising
A signalling peptide duo (commercially known as Matrixyl 3000) that communicates with skin cells to support collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid production while calming inflammation.
- Matrixyl 3000: A well-studied anti-aging peptide blend; manufacturer studies report visible wrinkle reduction after 8 weeks.
- Anti-inflammatory: Tetrapeptide-7 helps neutralize excess interleukin-6, a molecule linked to skin aging.
- Synergy with retinol: Peptides complement retinoid action without irritation.
Hyaluronic Acid <1%Proven
A humectant capable of holding up to 1,000× its weight in water — plumping the skin's surface and offsetting retinoid-induced dryness.
- Hydration: Binds water to the upper layers of the skin for instant smoothing and plumping.
- Pairs well with retinoids: Offsets moisture loss that can accompany retinol use.
Tocopherol & Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
Two complementary forms of vitamin E providing antioxidant protection against free-radical damage — working synergistically with retinoids to support skin-renewal benefits.
- Free-radical scavenger: Neutralizes oxidative stress from UV and pollution.
- Soothing: Helps calm the irritation that can accompany active ingredients.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Vitamin C) <1%Promising
An oil-soluble, highly stable derivative of vitamin C that penetrates more deeply than L-ascorbic acid — adding antioxidant and mild brightening benefits without the instability.
- Stable alternative: Doesn't oxidise like pure vitamin C, making it retinol-compatible.
- Brightening: Shown to help fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
29 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Tocopherol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Squalane, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phospholipids, Glycine Soja Oil, Glycolipids, Glycine Soja Sterols, Retinyl Acetate, Dimethicone, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Hyaluronic Acid, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Sodium Lactate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse PM only. Apply after cleansing and hydrating serums, before moisturizer. Beginners can try the "retinol sandwich" — moisturizer, then retinol, then moisturizer — to buffer irritation.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & dry
In the evening, cleanse your face and pat completely dry. Applying retinol to damp skin can increase absorption and irritation.
Dispense a pea-sized amount
A little goes a long way. Dispense a pea-sized drop onto clean fingertips — this is enough for the entire face and neck.
Pat gently into skin
Tap into cheeks, forehead, chin and neck. Avoid the immediate eye area, lips, and nostrils. Do not rub aggressively.
Follow with moisturizer
Seal in with a hydrating moisturizer to minimise dryness. Sensitive skin can apply moisturizer before the retinol.
Start 1–2 nights per week
Gradually increase to every other night, then nightly if well tolerated. "More is not better" — over-use causes irritation, not faster results.
Always wear SPF in the morning
Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable when using retinol. Sun exposure reduces efficacy and can worsen pigmentation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're in your mid-20s to 40s wanting to start preventative anti-aging
- You're a retinol beginner looking for a lower-irritation option
- You want to target fine lines, uneven tone and dullness without a prescription
- You have oily, combination or normal skin
- You want dermatologist-grade actives at a drugstore price
- You can commit to daily SPF and a 6–12 week consistency window
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — ingredients feed the yeast
- You have severe rosacea, eczema or compromised barrier
- You already use prescription tretinoin or adapalene
- You're an advanced retinoid user wanting higher potency (try 0.3–1% retinal)
- You can't commit to daily SPF
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight cream texture, non-greasy finish. Retinoids help regulate sebum and refine pores over time.
Squalane and HA help, but retinoids are inherently drying — layer a rich moisturizer afterwards.
Balanced formula suits combination skin well — absorbs into oilier zones without neglecting dry areas.
Slow-release helps, but any retinoid can still trigger reactive skin. Patch test and start once weekly.
Low comedogenic rating; helps with blackheads, texture and scars. Expect initial purging for 2–4 weeks.
A solid entry-level retinoid; advanced users may eventually graduate to retinaldehyde or prescription tretinoin.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Adjustment phase
Skin may feel slightly drier or tight. Mild flaking or redness is normal as cell turnover accelerates. Stay consistent but low-frequency (1–2× per week).
~60% experience mild drynessSmoother texture emerges
Surface roughness softens, pores look slightly refined and makeup sits better. Any purging (small breakouts) typically peaks then subsides.
~55% notice smoother skinBrightness and tone improvement
Dullness fades; early hyperpigmentation begins to lighten. This is the milestone the brand cites for visible improvement.
~65% see more even toneFine lines soften
Fine lines (especially around eyes, mouth and forehead) appear softer. Skin looks fresher, firmer and more refined overall.
~50% report reduced fine linesOptimal collagen results
With continued consistent use, collagen-related improvements become more established — firmness, elasticity and long-term anti-aging benefits build.
~70% would repurchaseRatings by platform
20K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional price for a dual-retinoid formulation (under $15 for 30ml)
- Genuinely gentler than most standard retinols — suitable for beginners
- Lightweight cream-serum texture absorbs fast, not greasy
- Fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin tolerance
- Hyaluronic acid, squalane and peptides support barrier function
- Cruelty-free, Clean at Sephora, Allure award winner
- Lasts 2–3 months with nightly use (great value)
Criticized
- Actual retinol concentration is relatively low (~0.05% active equivalent)
- Results are gradual — expect 6–12 weeks, not overnight
- Not potent enough for advanced retinoid users
- Nozzle dispenses quickly — easy to over-pour and waste product
- Not fungal-acne safe
- Contains vitamin C and E forms that BASF notes as less ideal for RetiStar stability
- Slight retinoid odor that some find off-putting
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also uses Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) as the main retinoid — the same technology at a higher percentage. More potent but slightly more minimalist in supporting ingredients (fewer peptides).
Pure retinol (not an ester), delivered in a squalane base. More active retinol than the INKEY List formula, but less gentle and without peptides or hyaluronic acid.
Encapsulated retinol with ceramides and niacinamide instead of peptides. Better for barrier-focused routines and post-acne texture; less hydrating than INKEY List's squalane base.
Combines encapsulated retinol with bakuchiol and niacinamide. Stronger overall retinoid dose; more modern formula but fragranced and not always beginner-friendly.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place (15–25°C / 59–77°F). Keep out of direct sunlight to preserve retinoid stability. Natural oxidation may turn the product slightly yellow-orange — this is normal and does not affect efficacy.
Opaque plastic tube with narrow nozzle — protects retinoids from light. Fully recyclable.
Yes — 30ml is under the TSA 100ml liquid limit. Squeeze tube is compact and spill-resistant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This serum contains two retinoids — Retinyl Acetate and Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate — and The INKEY List explicitly advises against use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Retinoids (any form of vitamin A) are avoided during pregnancy due to potential developmental risks. Safer alternatives include bakuchiol, azelaic acid, peptides or vitamin C. Always consult your doctor.
No. The formula contains Polysorbate 60, Polysorbate 20, Sorbitan Isostearate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Phospholipids, Glycine Soja Oil and Glycine Soja Sterols — ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast. If you're actively managing fungal acne, look for a fungal-acne-safe alternative like The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane (though always verify ingredient lists).
Not at the same time. Combine retinol with vitamin C, glycolic acid, lactic acid or salicylic acid in a single routine can cause over-exfoliation, redness and barrier damage. Best practice: use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night; alternate nights with AHAs/BHAs. Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are safe to layer with this serum.
It's best for oily, combination, normal and acne-prone skin, and generally suitable for mildly sensitive skin. The slow-release format and hydrating base make it a top choice for first-time retinol users in their 20s, 30s and 40s. Very dry or very sensitive skin should patch test and use sparingly. Not ideal for fungal-acne or pregnant users.
Expect visible results in 4–6 weeks of consistent use, with optimal improvement at 12 weeks. The INKEY List confirms that retinoids can take up to six weeks to start showing effects because that's roughly how long the skin-cell renewal cycle takes. Smoother texture tends to appear first, followed by brightness, then fine-line softening.
Use it in the PM only, after cleansing and any watery hydrating serums, and before your moisturizer. A standard routine looks like: cleanser → toner (optional) → hydrating serum → INKEY List Retinol → moisturizer. Sensitive skin can "sandwich" it: moisturizer → retinol → moisturizer. Always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the AM.
Very unlikely. The comedogenic rating sits at approximately 1 out of 5. The main emollients are squalane and dimethicone, both rated 0–1 and non-comedogenic. In fact, retinoids are commonly prescribed to help clear clogged pores and blackheads. The only caveat is the fungal acne concern — those ingredients feed yeast but do not clog pores per se.
12 months after opening (PAO 12M). Because retinoids oxidise with exposure to light and air, the product is packaged in an opaque tube with a narrow nozzle. If the serum turns noticeably yellow-orange, that's natural oxidation and the product is still effective. Discard if it develops an off smell or separates. With pea-sized nightly use, one tube typically lasts 2–3 months.
Verdict: The INKEY List Retinol Anti-Aging Serum remains one of the best entry-level retinols on the market. At under $15, you're getting a thoughtfully formulated dual-retinoid system — stabilised Retinyl Acetate plus 0.5% Granactive Retinoid — cushioned with squalane, hyaluronic acid and peptides. It's gentle enough for beginners, effective enough to deliver visible smoothing and tone improvement over 6–12 weeks, and priced low enough to justify nightly use without guilt.Not for you if: you're pregnant, dealing with fungal acne, or already an advanced retinoid user wanting higher potency.Perfect for: first-time retinol users, anyone in their mid-20s–40s starting preventative anti-aging, and budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts who want science-backed actives without the luxury markup.
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 7 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|