Skincare Generics CE Serum
Skincare Generics CE Serum
Product Description
Product overview
Vitamin C serum with stabilized ascorbic acid, ferulic acid antioxidant support, and hydrating humectants. Delivers brightening and photoprotection benefits through a lightweight, quick-absorbing formula designed for layering in morning routines.
Stabilized vitamin C + ferulic acid system
Ascorbic acid paired with ferulic acid works synergistically to support collagen production and neutralize free radicals. This combination is commonly used in professional antioxidant serums to extend the stability and efficacy of vitamin C on skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAscorbic acid brightening
L-ascorbic acid at 3rd position (likely 10–15% concentration) is the gold-standard form of vitamin C. It inhibits melanin transfer and supports even tone when used consistently over weeks.
Ferulic acid antioxidant boost
Ferulic acid amplifies vitamin C's free-radical scavenging activity and increases photostability. Studies show the combination outperforms vitamin C alone in UV protection support.
Multi-layer hydration
Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate work as complementary humectants. Glycerin draws moisture into the stratum corneum, while hyaluronate holds water in deeper layers for sustained plumpness.
Fast absorption formula
Ethoxydiglycol acts as a solvent and penetration enhancer, allowing the active ingredients to absorb quickly without a tacky residue. This supports seamless layering in multi-step routines.
Panthenol skin-conditioning
Panthenol (provitamin B5) reduces transepidermal water loss and soothes irritation from active ingredients. It also supports the skin barrier, important when using stabilizing agents like triethanolamine.
Clean preservation system
Phenoxyethanol at ~1% is the sole preservative, avoiding parabens and formaldehyde releasers. Tocopherol (vitamin E) provides secondary antioxidant and preservative support.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical vitamin C in this concentration is not systemically absorbed and poses no risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The serum contains no retinoids, salicylates, or prescription actives.
The ingredient list avoids fungal-feeding oils, silicones, and fatty alcohols. All humectants (glycerin, hyaluronate) are fermented-friendly, making this suitable for malassezia-prone skin.
Phenoxyethanol at low concentration and the absence of fragrance reduce irritation risk. However, ascorbic acid can cause mild redness in extremely reactive skin; patch testing is recommended.
Vitamin C increases photosensitivity slightly. Daytime use must always be followed by broad-spectrum SPF 30+. Ferulic acid provides some antioxidant UV support but is not a sunscreen substitute.
Combining serums with duplicate ascorbic acid can cause irritation and diminishes each product's efficacy. Space vitamin C treatments 12+ hours apart or use in separate AM/PM routines.
Triethanolamine buffers the formula to a pH safe for skin. Once opened, the serum oxidizes gradually; discoloration (browning) signals loss of vitamin C potency and reduced efficacy.
Ingredient breakdown
INCIAscorbic Acid Proven
L-ascorbic acid is the most bioavailable form of vitamin C for topical use. It inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, reducing melanin synthesis and evening skin tone. Consistent use supports collagen cross-linking, helping to firm skin and improve fine-line appearance over 8+ weeks.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase and promotes type I collagen synthesis
- Benefit: Visible brightening and anti-photoaging support
- Function: Free-radical scavenging and iron chelation
Ferulic Acid Proven
A plant-derived phenolic compound that works synergistically with vitamin C to amplify antioxidant power. Ferulic acid stabilizes ascorbic acid, extending its shelf life and skin benefits. The pair is often called the 'gold standard' antioxidant combination in dermatology.
- Mechanism: Extends vitamin C photostability and boosts free-radical neutralization
- Benefit: Enhanced photoprotection and collagen support
- Function: Iron-binding and lipid peroxidation inhibition
Sodium Hyaluronate Proven
A humectant derived from fermented bacteria or plant sources (fungal-acne safe). Sodium hyaluronate holds up to 1000× its weight in water, filling the dermis and plumping the epidermis. It reduces transepidermal water loss and pairs well with glycerin for layered hydration.
- Function: Hygroscopic humectant; binds water in deeper skin layers
- Benefit: Visibly smoother texture and plumped fine lines within 1–2 weeks
- Mechanism: Forms a hydrophilic matrix, supporting skin barrier recovery
Glycerin Proven
A simple sugar alcohol and gold-standard humectant that draws water into the stratum corneum. Glycerin reduces skin dryness immediately and supports barrier function. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive.
- Function: Hygroscopic humectant; rapid water attraction
- Benefit: Immediate softness and improved hydration
- Mechanism: Decreases TEWL and reinforces natural moisturizing factor (NMF)
Panthenol Supporting
Provitamin B5 that converts to pantothenic acid on skin, supporting barrier repair and reducing irritation. Panthenol soothes redness, especially useful when layering with potentially irritating actives like ascorbic acid. It also improves skin hydration and elasticity.
- Function: Moisture-retention enhancer and soothing agent
- Benefit: Reduced irritation and faster barrier recovery
- Mechanism: Increases sphingolipid production and decreases inflammatory markers
Tocopherol Supporting
Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that stabilizes vitamin C and provides secondary free-radical protection. Tocopherol also acts as a preservative, reducing the oxidation rate of ascorbic acid and extending product shelf life.
- Function: Lipid-phase antioxidant and stabilizer
- Benefit: Extended efficacy and reduced product degradation
- Mechanism: Neutralizes lipid peroxides and synergizes with ascorbic acid + ferulic acid
Ethoxydiglycol Supporting
A humectant and solvent that enhances penetration of hydrophilic actives. Ethoxydiglycol keeps the formula fluid and aids absorption, allowing vitamin C and ferulic acid to reach viable epidermis quickly without leaving a heavy residue.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer
- Benefit: Fast absorption and reduced layering time
- Mechanism: Lowers the viscosity of the formula and increases transdermal flux
Propylene Glycol Supporting
A lightweight humectant and solvent that supports hydration and formula stability. Propylene glycol also acts as a preservative booster, enhancing phenoxyethanol's antimicrobial efficacy at lower concentrations.
- Function: Humectant and preservative enhancer
- Benefit: Improved hydration and microbial stability
- Mechanism: Water-binding and antimicrobial activity amplification
Phenoxyethanol Supporting
A broad-spectrum preservative at ~1% that prevents bacterial and fungal contamination. Phenoxyethanol is gentler than parabens and does not release formaldehyde, making it a safer choice for sensitive and fungal-acne prone skin.
- Function: Preservative system; antimicrobial and antifungal
- Benefit: Product stability without paraben or formaldehyde releasers
- Mechanism: Disrupts microbial cell membranes and inhibits growth
Triethanolamine Supporting
A pH buffer that stabilizes the formula to a skin-safe pH (typically 3.5–4.5), essential for vitamin C stability and skin tolerability. Triethanolamine neutralizes the acidity of ascorbic acid without introducing irritant buffering agents.
- Function: pH buffer and emulsifier
- Benefit: Optimal pH for vitamin C potency and minimal irritation
- Mechanism: Acid–base neutralization to achieve physiological pH range
12 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Ethoxydiglycol, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Laureth-23, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopherol, Triethanolamine, Ferulic Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate.
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 04Apply this serum to clean, damp skin as the first active step in your AM routine, before moisturizer. Wait 1–2 minutes for it to absorb fully, then follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) — vitamin C increases photosensitivity and requires UV protection.
How to use
4 STEPSCleanse & tone
Start with clean, slightly damp skin after toner.
Dispense 2–3 drops
Drop into palms or directly onto face — a little goes a long way.
Pat to absorb
Gently pat into skin until fully absorbed. No need to rub.
Layer & seal
Follow with moisturizer to lock it in. Sunscreen the next morning.
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You want to brighten dull or uneven tone with clinical-strength vitamin C
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing serums that layer easily in multi-step routines
- You have combination, normal, or oily skin and need hydration without heaviness
- You are prone to fungal acne and need safe hydrating actives
- You are committed to daily sun protection (this serum boosts photoprotection when paired with SPF)
- You want an affordable antioxidant serum without parabens or synthetic fragrance
- You have mature skin and seek collagen-support and fine-line improvement
Consider alternatives if
- You expect immediate results; vitamin C requires 8+ weeks of consistent use for visible brightening
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin prone to irritation from ascorbic acid
- You cannot commit to daily SPF; vitamin C increases sun sensitivity without sunscreen
- You prefer oil-based or cream serums; this is a lightweight aqueous formula
- You are already using another vitamin C product; layering duplicates can cause irritation
- You want a product with proven clinical data; this is a generic formulation without published trials
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESThe glycerin and hyaluronate provide sustained hydration, while panthenol supports barrier repair. However, very dry skin may benefit from layering a heavier moisturizer on top to lock in humectants.
Lightweight, non-comedogenic formula ideal for oily complexions. Ascorbic acid brightens without adding heaviness; the serum layers seamlessly under gel moisturizers or mattifying sunscreens.
Balances hydration on dry zones with a non-greasy finish on the T-zone. The fast absorption and absence of silicones make it a versatile choice for mixed textures.
Ascorbic acid may cause mild redness or stinging in very reactive skin; patch test first. Fragrance-free formula and paraben-free preservative are gentle, but start with 2–3 times weekly and build tolerance.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe, supporting clear skin without triggering breakouts. Antioxidants help reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne scars.
Ascorbic acid and ferulic acid target fine lines and loss of firmness through collagen support. Combined with panthenol's barrier repair, this serum addresses multiple aging concerns.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Hydration and dewy texture
Glycerin and hyaluronate deliver immediate plumping. Skin feels softer and looks more luminous from enhanced moisture content.
Users frequently noticed improved hydration and dewinessReduced irritation and barrier support
Panthenol and antioxidants calm redness and support skin recovery. Fine lines appear less pronounced from hydration fill.
Users frequently reported smoother, calmer skinBrightening and tone evening
Ascorbic acid begins inhibiting melanin transfer. Dark spots and uneven tone visibly lighten; overall radiance improves.
Users frequently noticed visible brightening and more even complexionCollagen support and firmness
Consistent use supports type I collagen production. Fine lines soften, skin feels firmer, and overall complexion appears younger.
Users frequently reported improved firmness and reduced fine lines at 12 weeksRatings by platform
3.3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Stabilized ascorbic acid at active concentration for proven brightening and collagen support
- Ferulic acid synergy extends vitamin C efficacy and photostability
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula ideal for layering and multi-step AM routines
- Dual humectants (glycerin + hyaluronate) deliver immediate and sustained hydration
- Paraben-free and fragrance-free; phenoxyethanol preservative is gentler than alternatives
- Fungal-acne safe — no silicones, fatty alcohols, or fungal-feeding oils
- Affordable price point for a vitamin C + ferulic serum with clinical-grade ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types except extremely sensitive; works for oily to mature skin
- Panthenol soothes irritation from actives and strengthens the skin barrier
- Pregnancy and nursing safe; no retinoids or prescription actives
Criticized
- Small 30ml size depletes quickly with daily use; expect 4–6 weeks of routine application
- Ascorbic acid may cause mild stinging or redness in very reactive or compromised skin; requires patch testing
- Requires consistent daytime SPF use; vitamin C increases photosensitivity and is not sun-protective alone
- Oxidizes gradually after opening; discoloration (browning) signals reduced potency and shorter shelf life
- Results take 8+ weeks for visible brightening; impatient users may see this as slow
- Generic brand with no published clinical studies; efficacy based on ingredient standards, not proprietary data
- Not waterproof; not suitable for extended outdoor activities without reapplication after sun exposure
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher ascorbic acid concentration (23% vs. ~10–15% estimated) but lacks ferulic acid synergy. Suspension formula is grittier and requires more settling time; The Ordinary version is 5–10× cheaper but less elegant for layering.
K-beauty humectant-focused serum with similar hydration profile but no vitamin C or ferulic acid. COSRX relies on snail mucin instead of ascorbic acid; suits sensitive skin better but lacks brightening efficacy.
Nearly identical antioxidant system (ascorbic acid + ferulic + tocopherol) at half the price. Timeless uses stabilized ascorbic acid but has a slightly heavier, oilier texture; lacks the panthenol soothing complex.
Does not contain vitamin C or ferulic acid; better for sensitive skin but slower brightening results than ascorbic acid.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Skincare Generics — CE Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Topical ascorbic acid at this concentration is not systemically absorbed and poses no risk to a developing fetus or nursing infant. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylates, or other prescription actives. Always consult your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare during pregnancy, but vitamin C is widely considered safe for expectant and postpartum skin.
Yes, this serum is fungal-acne safe. It contains no silicones, fatty alcohols, or fungal-feeding oils. Both humectants (glycerin and sodium hyaluronate) are fermented-derived and do not feed malassezia. However, always patch test new products, and if you notice any worsening, discontinue and consult a dermatologist.
Do not combine this serum with other ascorbic acid products on the same day; duplicate vitamin C can cause irritation and reduces efficacy. Allow 5–10 minutes between serum application and the next step to avoid pilling.
Immediate effects (hydration, dewy finish) appear within 1–2 weeks. Visible brightening and tone-evening typically require 8–12 weeks of consistent daily use. Collagen-support benefits (firmer skin, reduced fine lines) emerge at 12+ weeks. Results depend on consistent sun protection; without SPF 30+, results will stall or reverse.
Ascorbic acid oxidizes when exposed to air, light, and heat. Browning signals that vitamin C has lost potency and is less effective. To slow oxidation, store the serum in a cool, dark place (not the bathroom), keep the cap tightly closed, and use within 3–6 months of opening. Discard if discoloration is severe.
It depends on your skin type. Oily skin may skip a second moisturizer and apply sunscreen directly. Dry skin should layer a hydrating cream or emollient serum on top to lock in the humectants. Combination skin benefits from a lightweight gel moisturizer on dry zones and none on the T-zone. Always follow with SPF during the day.
Ascorbic acid can cause mild stinging, redness, or sensitivity in reactive skin. Start with 2–3 applications per week and build tolerance. If irritation persists, reduce frequency or patch test on the inner arm first. Applying to damp skin and following with panthenol-rich products reduces irritation. Discontinue if severe stinging or rash develops.
Yes. Vitamin C increases photosensitivity, meaning your skin is more prone to sun damage and hyperpigmentation without UV protection. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning after this serum and reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure. Without consistent sunscreen, brightening benefits will be negated and dark spots may worsen.
Verdict: Skincare Generics CE Serum is an affordable vitamin C + ferulic acid antioxidant serum designed for morning brightening routines. The formula pairs stabilized ascorbic acid with ferulic acid—a clinically-backed combination that supports even tone, collagen synthesis, and free-radical protection. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate deliver hydration, while panthenol soothes irritation from the actives. The serum is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and suitable for oily to mature skin; it is also paraben-free, fragrance-free, and fungal-acne safe, making it inclusive for a range of sensitivities. The main limitation is the small 30ml size, which depletes within 4–6 weeks of daily use. Results—visible brightening and fine-line softening—require 8+ weeks and mandatory daily SPF; users seeking instant gratification will find this slow. For someone with combination or oily mature skin who is committed to sun protection and does not mind rebuying frequently, this serum offers solid clinical ingredients and good value relative to premium vitamin C alternatives.
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
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.