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Rozex Crema Metronidazole 0.75%

Rozex Crema Metronidazole 0.75%

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

Rozex Crema by Galderma is a prescription-strength topical cream containing 0.75% metronidazole, clinically proven to reduce the papules, pustules, and persistent redness of papulopustular rosacea. Formulated in an emollient, moisturising base with cetearyl alcohol and glycerol, it soothes reactive skin while fighting inflammation — making it a dermatologist favourite for mild-to-moderate rosacea for over 30 years.

Prescription-Grade (Rx) Clinically Proven Anti-Rosacea Fragrance-Free Paraben-Free Non-Comedogenic Base Dermatologist-Prescribed Worldwide Reduces Papules & Pustules 48–65% Emollient Hydrating Base
Pregnancy
Doctor Only
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Active
Metronidazole 0.75%
Brand
Galderma
Size
30g / 40g / 50g
Treats
Rosacea (Papules & Pustules)
Frequency
Twice Daily (AM & PM)
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Clinically Proven Efficacy

Meta-analysis shows metronidazole 0.75% reduces papules and pustules by 48–65% vs. placebo when applied twice daily for 7–12 weeks.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Light Cream
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
60–90 seconds
Finish
Natural, Soft

Clinically Proven Efficacy

Meta-analysis shows metronidazole 0.75% reduces papules and pustules by 48–65% vs. placebo when applied twice daily for 7–12 weeks.

Calms Visible Redness

Anti-inflammatory action targets the inflammatory lesions and persistent erythema typical of papulopustular rosacea.

Moisturising Cream Base

Unlike the Rozex Gel version, the Crema formulation includes glycerol and sorbitol — better suited to dry, sensitive, reactive skin.

Maintains Remission

Studies show 77% of patients stay in remission 6 months after oral antibiotics when maintained on topical metronidazole, vs. 58% on placebo.

Dermatologist Gold Standard

NICE and EMA-recommended first-line topical for mild-to-moderate rosacea; on the market for over three decades with a well-characterised safety profile.

Fragrance & Paraben Free

The cream formulation avoids fragrance, parabens, lanolin, and the most common sensitising preservatives — ideal for reactive rosacea skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Minimal Systemic Absorption

Topical application results in negligible blood levels, so oral metronidazole interactions (e.g. alcohol reaction) are very unlikely.

Well-Tolerated Locally

Stinging, dryness, burning, or itching reported in ≤2% of patients in clinical trials — a low irritation rate for an active rosacea treatment.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Use only if clearly necessary and under direct medical supervision. Not routinely recommended during pregnancy or lactation.

Anticoagulant Interaction

Theoretical interaction with warfarin and dicoumarol blood thinners. Inform your prescriber before starting treatment.

UV Exposure

Avoid strong sunlight, sunbeds, and UV lamps during treatment. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ over the cream after it absorbs.

Not for Children or Cockayne Syndrome

Not recommended under 18. Contraindicated in patients with Cockayne syndrome due to risk of severe hepatic toxicity.

Prescription-Only Medicine

Rozex Crema is a POM (prescription-only medicine). A dermatologist or GP must confirm rosacea diagnosis before use.

Avoid Eyes & Mucous Membranes

Keep away from the eyes, eyelids, lips, inside of the nose, and mouth. Rinse thoroughly with water if accidental contact occurs.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Metronidazole 0.75%Proven

An antiprotozoal and antibacterial agent with a documented anti-inflammatory effect on rosacea-prone skin. It reduces the papules, pustules, and erythema characteristic of papulopustular rosacea through a mechanism that is thought to involve both antimicrobial activity against skin microbiota and direct dampening of reactive oxygen species.

  • PubMed (McClellan & Noble, 2000): 0.75% and 1% cream, 0.75% gel, and 0.75% lotion all significantly outperformed placebo in moderate-to-severe rosacea over 7–12 weeks.
  • Clinical outcome: Mean reduction of papules and pustules of 48–65.1% in treated groups, with most of the benefit seen in the first 3 weeks.
  • Maintenance data: 77% of patients remained in remission at 6 months on 0.75% gel vs. 58% on placebo after oral tetracycline was discontinued.
  • Regulatory status: NICE-recommended first-line topical for mild-to-moderate papulopustular rosacea.
Topical metronidazole does not improve telangiectasia (visible broken capillaries) — expect improvement in inflammatory lesions and redness, not visible veins.

Cetearyl Alcohol (Emulsifying Wax) ~9.35%Proven

A blend of fatty alcohols (cetyl + stearyl alcohol) combined with polysorbate-60, forming the main emulsifying and emollient base of the cream. It thickens the formula, softens the skin surface, and traps moisture — giving Rozex Crema its characteristic creamy, conditioning feel that makes it better suited to dry rosacea skin than the gel version.

  • CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review): Cetearyl alcohol is classified as safe, non-toxic, and non-irritating at the concentrations used in leave-on products.
  • Role in the formula: Provides the occlusive cushion that offsets the mild drying effect sometimes reported with metronidazole.
Fatty alcohols can very rarely trigger contact dermatitis in people with pre-existing fatty-alcohol sensitivity — patch test on the inner wrist if you have a history of reactions.

Glycerol (Glycerin) & Sorbitol HumectantsProven

Two well-studied humectants that draw water from the deeper layers of the epidermis toward the surface, keeping the stratum corneum plump and reducing the tightness that often accompanies rosacea. Their inclusion is the key reason Rozex Crema is preferred over the gel for dry, mature, or sensitive rosacea skin.

  • British Journal of Dermatology: Glycerol is one of the most evidence-based humectants for improving skin hydration and barrier recovery.
  • Formulation benefit: Counterbalances the mild drying and stinging that can occur with the metronidazole active.

Isopropyl Palmitate EmollientPromising

A lightweight emollient ester that gives the cream its soft, spreadable feel and helps other ingredients glide evenly across the skin. It forms a thin occlusive film that reduces transepidermal water loss without the heavy feel of occlusives such as petrolatum.

  • Comedogenicity: Rated 4/5 on the classic comedogenic scale by Fulton — but the rabbit-ear model is a poor predictor of real-world acne risk on adult human skin.
Very acne-prone users (oily T-zone, frequent breakouts) may prefer the Rozex Gel formulation, which replaces isopropyl palmitate with a lighter carbomer base.

Benzyl Alcohol 2.2%Proven

A dual-purpose ingredient acting as both preservative and co-solvent in the cream. It stabilises the emulsion and prevents microbial contamination without relying on parabens, keeping Rozex Crema paraben-free — a selling point for sensitive-skin users.

  • Regulatory status: Approved EU cosmetic preservative (E1519); permitted up to 1% in finished cosmetics, higher in medicinal products.
At 2.2% it may cause mild local irritation or allergic reactions in very reactive individuals. Discontinue if you experience persistent stinging or rash.

Lactic Acid & Sodium Hydroxide pH bufferProven

This pair is used strictly to adjust the cream to a skin-friendly pH —not as an exfoliant. At the trace levels used here, lactic acid does not function as an AHA and will not thin the skin or trigger photosensitivity beyond what metronidazole already causes.

  • Formulation role: Balances the cream to roughly pH 4.0–5.0, matching the skin's acid mantle.

9 ingredients (Rozex Crema / Rozex Cream 0.75% — Galderma UK/EU formulation)

Metronidazole 0.75% (active), Emulsifying Wax (Cetostearyl Alcohol + Polysorbate 60), Benzyl Alcohol (E1519), Isopropyl Palmitate, Glycerol, Sorbitol Solution 70% Non-Crystallising, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Purified Water.

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Parabens, Lanolin, Nickel, Talc, Gluten, Topical Sunscreens, Phthalates, Triclosan, Added Essential Oils, Formaldehyde Releasers, SLS/SLES.
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Gentle Cleanser
2
Pat Skin Dry
3
Rozex Crema
4
Moisturiser
5
SPF 30+ (AM)
6
Oil-Free Makeup (optional)

Apply Rozex Crema toclean, dry skin as the first treatment step. Allow it to fully absorb (about a minute) before layering moisturiser and sunscreen. Non-negotiable daytime SPF is critical — metronidazole can increase photosensitivity.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Gently

Wash the face with a mild, non-foaming, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or hot water, which can worsen rosacea flushing.

2

Dry Thoroughly

Pat (don't rub) the skin dry with a clean, soft towel. The cream should be applied to completely dry skin for best absorption.

3

Apply a Thin Layer

Dispense a pea-sized amount and smooth a thin, even layer over the affected areas (cheeks, nose, chin, forehead). Rub in gently until absorbed.

4

Twice Daily, Morning and Night

Use consistently morning and evening as directed by your prescriber. Skipping doses significantly reduces efficacy.

5

Wash Hands & Avoid Eyes

Wash hands after application. Keep away from eyes, lips, nostrils, and mouth. Rinse with water if accidental contact occurs.

6

Follow Through the Full Course

Continue treatment for the full prescribed period (typically 8–12 weeks). Cosmetics and non-comedogenic moisturisers can be applied once the cream has dried.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have been diagnosed with mild-to-moderate papulopustular rosacea (bumps, pustules, redness)
  • You prefer a moisturising cream base over a drying gel
  • You have dry, sensitive, or mature skin alongside your rosacea
  • You are looking for a first-line, evidence-based topical rather than oral antibiotics
  • You want a fragrance-free, paraben-free formula
  • You can commit to twice-daily application for at least 8–12 weeks

Consider alternatives if:

  • You only experience telangiectasia (visible capillaries) without papules — metronidazole does not treat broken veins
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (unless specifically approved by your doctor)
  • You have Cockayne syndrome or are allergic to metronidazole
  • Your skin is extremely oily and acne-prone (the gel version or azelaic acid may suit better)
  • You have fungal-acne-prone skin (the fatty alcohols and polysorbate 60 can feed Malassezia)
  • You need improvement in under 4 weeks — expect gradual results
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

The glycerol + sorbitol + fatty alcohol base makes this the preferred metronidazole formulation for dry rosacea skin. Counters the slight drying of the active.

Sensitive / Rosacea-Prone
Excellent

Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and specifically indicated for rosacea. Low irritation rate (<2% in trials) makes it suitable for reactive skin.

Combination
Good

Works well across most face zones; oilier T-zones may prefer the Rozex Gel formulation in warmer months.

Oily / Acne-Prone
Moderate

Isopropyl palmitate and fatty alcohols can feel heavy. If you have true acne vulgaris alongside rosacea, azelaic acid or the gel form may be preferable.

Fungal-Acne-Prone (Malassezia)
Poor

Polysorbate 60 and fatty alcohols are potential Malassezia food sources. Those with confirmed pityrosporum folliculitis should discuss ivermectin (Soolantra) with their dermatologist instead.

Mature Skin
Excellent

Rosacea often worsens after 40. The cushioning cream base is gentler on thinner, less resilient mature skin than a gel.

08

Results timeline

6+ MONTHS MAINTENANCE
Week 1

Initial Purge Possible

Some users report a temporary worsening (mild stinging, slight increase in redness or bumps) in the first 7–10 days. This is usually self-limiting. Moisturising over the top helps tolerability.

~20% notice mild initial flare
Weeks 2–3

First Visible Improvement

Papules and pustules begin to calm down. Overall redness softens. In clinical trials, most of the treatment benefit emerges within the first three weeks.

~60% notice clearer pustules
Weeks 4–6

Meaningful Clearing

Average user sees a visible reduction in inflammatory lesions, less flushing, and calmer cheeks. This is when most patient reviews describe "amazing" or "night-and-day" results.

~75% report clear improvement
Weeks 8–12

Peak Clinical Effect

Pooled trial data show 48–65% reduction in papules and pustules at this point. Persistent erythema is also meaningfully reduced. This is the benchmark for assessing treatment success with your dermatologist.

80%+ achieve moderate/marked improvement
6+ Months Maintenance

Remission Support

When continued after oral antibiotics are stopped, topical metronidazole keeps 77% of patients in remission at 6 months (vs. 58% on placebo). Long-term use is considered safe and appropriate.

77% stay in remission at 6 months
09

Ratings by platform

182+ REVIEWS
Drugs.com (Rozex)
6.8/10
Rating
15+
Reviews
Main complaint: A minority report initial flare-ups or temporary worsening in the first week before improvement.
Drugs.com (Topical Metronidazole)
6.8/10
Rating
122+
Reviews
Main complaint: Slow onset — some users need 4–6 weeks before seeing improvement; requires patience.
The Independent Pharmacy
4.58/5
Rating
45+
Reviews
Main complaint: Prescription-only access, so patients cannot re-order without a consultation.
SkinSort Community
4.0/5
Rating
Verified
Ingredient Analysis
Main complaint: Flagged as potentially "may worsen oily skin" and "may trigger acne" in acne-prone users because of the rich emollient base.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Strong clinical evidence (decades of published trials)
  • Reduces papules and pustules 48–65% vs. placebo
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, lanolin-free
  • Moisturising base suits dry/sensitive rosacea skin
  • Very low rate of local side effects (≤2%)
  • Helps maintain remission long-term
  • NICE first-line recommendation for mild-moderate rosacea
  • Gentle enough for twice-daily long-term use

Criticized

  • Prescription-only — requires a doctor consultation
  • Slow onset (often 3–6 weeks before visible results)
  • Does not treat visible broken capillaries (telangiectasia)
  • Not approved for pregnancy/breastfeeding without medical guidance
  • Some users experience initial worsening in first week
  • Not fungal-acne safe (polysorbate 60, fatty alcohols)
  • Can be too rich for very oily or acne-prone skin
  • Rozex brand discontinued in the US (generic metronidazole cream available)
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
95% Match
Generic Metronidazole 0.75% Cream (MetroCream / Rosadan)
$15–25
Budget Pick

Same active ingredient and concentration, typically with a similar cetearyl-alcohol emollient base. The nearest true equivalent where Rozex is unavailable. Still requires a prescription.

82% Match
Rozex Gel 0.75% (same brand, gel version)
$30–40
Same Active

Identical active and clinical efficacy, but with a lighter carbomer/propylene-glycol base instead of a cream. Better for oily skin; more drying on dry/sensitive types.

70% Match
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
$12.00
Budget Pick

Over-the-counter alternative with independent clinical evidence for rosacea redness and papules. Different mechanism but widely used as a Rx-free first try.

65% Match
10% Azelaic Acid Booster
$39.00

More cosmetically elegant azelaic acid formulation with added salicylic acid. Popular OTC option for rosacea-like redness, but is not prescription-strength and lacks metronidazole's anti-inflammatory specificity.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Soolantra
Active Ingredient Ivermectin 1%
Formulation Moisturising Cream
Best For Papulopustular rosacea with Demodex involvement
Application Once daily
Clinical Papule Reduction ~83% at 16 weeks
Size 30g / 45g
Pregnancy Safe Not recommended
Finacea Azelaic Acid Foam 15%
Active Ingredient Azelaic Acid 15%
Formulation Gel
Best For Rosacea + pigmentation + mild acne
Application Twice daily
Clinical Papule Reduction ~58%
Size 30g / 50g
Pregnancy Safe Generally considered safe

Mirvaso (Brimonidine 0.33%) — Galderma

Active Ingredient Brimonidine 0.33%
Formulation Gel (vasoconstrictor)
Best For Persistent facial redness only (not papules)
Application Once daily (on-demand)
Clinical Papule Reduction None (no anti-papule effect)
Size 30g
Pregnancy Safe Not recommended
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

Use within the manufacturer's expiry date stated on the tube (unopened shelf life is typically 3 years). Once opened, use within 12 months.

Storage

Store below 25°C. Do not refrigerate. Keep the tube tightly closed and protect from direct sunlight and heat.

Packaging

Aluminium squeeze tube with screw cap, outer carton. Available in 30g, 40g, and 50g presentations.

Travel Friendly

Yes — well under 100ml for cabin baggage. Carry the outer carton with the prescription label visible for international travel.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

The manufacturer advises using Rozex Crema during pregnancy or breastfeedingonly if clearly necessary and under direct medical supervision. Systemic absorption from topical metronidazole is very low, but oral metronidazole is considered a pregnancy caution, and regulators apply the same caution to topicals. NICE guidance actually suggests metronidazole as a possible option in pregnancywhen ivermectin is unsuitable — but the final decision must be made with your prescriber. Do not self-prescribe in pregnancy.

No — the cream contains polysorbate 60 and cetostearyl fatty alcohols, both of which are potential Malassezia food sources. If you have confirmed pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne) overlapping with rosacea, discuss a switch to Soolantra (ivermectin) with your dermatologist, which is fungal-acne friendlier.

Generally yes, but with care. Metronidazole 0.75% is not a chemical exfoliant, so there is no direct pH conflict. However, rosacea skin is typically easily irritated, and layering multiple actives can trigger flares. A safe approach: apply Rozex twice daily as directed, use vitamin C in the morning only if tolerated, and limit retinol/AHA/BHA to 1–3 evenings per week on alternate nights. Always speak with your dermatologist before combining actives.

Rozex Crema is best suited todry, sensitive, mature, and reactive rosacea-prone skin. The emollient base with glycerol, sorbitol and cetearyl alcohol provides a cushion of hydration that offsets the mild drying from the metronidazole active. Very oily or acne-prone users may find the Rozex Gel version or azelaic acid more comfortable.

Most clinical trials measure outcomes at 7–12 weeks, with a 48–65% reduction in papules and pustules by that point. First visible improvement typically appears at 2–3 weeks, meaningful clearing at 4–6 weeks, and peak effect at 8–12 weeks. Some users report faster results ("within a week") while others need the full 6–9 weeks — patience and consistency matter.

Apply Rozex Crema toclean, dry skin first, before any moisturiser or sunscreen. Wait about a minute for it to absorb, then layer a fragrance-free moisturiser on top, and finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning. Makeup can be applied once everything has set. Avoid using exfoliating acids in the same step as Rozex — space them out morning vs. evening.

The overall formula is consideredlow-comedogenic (≈2/5). Isopropyl palmitate has a higher comedogenic score in older rabbit-ear testing (4/5), but real-world rates of acne triggering are low for most adult users. Those with very acne-prone or oily skin may prefer the Rozex Gel version, which omits isopropyl palmitate.

Use within the manufacturer's printed expiry date on the tube (unopened shelf life is typically around 3 years). Once opened, use within 12 months for best efficacy and microbial safety. Store below 25°C, protected from light and heat, and do not refrigerate.

The well-known disulfiram-like reaction to alcohol applies tooral metronidazole. Topical Rozex results in minimal systemic absorption, making this reaction very unlikely. However, the Galderma PIL still advises avoiding alcohol during treatment as a precaution. Also remember that alcohol itself is a common rosacea trigger — cutting it back often improves symptoms independently of the medication.

Yes. Rozex Crema is aprescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK, EU, and most countries where it is marketed. It requires a diagnosis of rosacea from a GP or dermatologist. The Rozex brand has been discontinued in the US, but generic metronidazole 0.75% cream (MetroCream, Rosadan) is available by prescription.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Rozex Crema 0.75% is a well-earned gold-standard topical for mild-to-moderate papulopustular rosacea. Its decades of clinical evidence, low local side-effect rate, and hydrating cream base make it a particularly strong fit for dry, sensitive, or mature skin. It will not treat visible broken capillaries or deliver overnight results — expect 3–6 weeks for meaningful improvement and up to 12 weeks for peak effect. It loses points for being prescription-only, not fungal-acne safe, and less well-tolerated by very oily skin types. For anyone with a dermatologist-confirmed rosacea diagnosis who wants an evidence-backed, gentle, long-term topical, Rozex Crema remains one of the best first-line choices Galderma has brought to market.

Product Overview

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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.

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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.

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Quick Product Notes

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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.

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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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

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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.

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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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

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dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
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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.

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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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
37% 25% 12% 25%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 8 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Metronidazole
0 Unknown
Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate
7 A
Propylparaben
Perfuming, Fragrance, Preservative
1 A
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
1 A
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS