SuperTone Toner
SuperTone Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle daily exfoliating toner powered by 4% Glycolic Acid (AHA) that sweeps away dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion. Enriched with Witch Hazel, Aloe Vera, and Zinc Gluconate to tone, balance, and soothe skin.
Chemical Exfoliation
4% Glycolic Acid gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin beneath without harsh physical scrubbing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYChemical Exfoliation
4% Glycolic Acid gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin beneath without harsh physical scrubbing.
Tone & Balance
Witch Hazel works as a natural astringent to help tighten pores and balance excess oil production for a more refined complexion.
Soothe & Hydrate
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Glycerin provide soothing moisture to counterbalance the exfoliating action of the AHA.
Anti-Blemish Support
Zinc Gluconate offers antibacterial properties and helps calm inflammation, supporting clearer skin over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 4% Glycolic Acid. Concentrations under 10% are generally considered low risk during pregnancy, but limited studies exist. Consult your doctor before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have pityrosporum folliculitis.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). No known pore-clogging ingredients detected. Unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.
AHA increases photosensitivity. Always use sunscreen during the day when using this product. Contains Lemon Peel Oil which can also be photosensitizing.
Not recommended for sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin. The brand explicitly states this product is not suitable for sensitive skin. Patch test recommended.
Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, hydroquinone, triclosan, triclocarban, and nonylphenol ethoxylates. Vegan and cruelty-free.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid ~4%Proven
The star AHA in this formula. Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid, allowing it to penetrate skin effectively. It dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, and stimulates collagen production over time.
- Exfoliation: Breaks down desmosomes (the "glue" holding dead cells together) for smoother, brighter skin.
- Collagen Boost: Clinical studies show long-term use can stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin firmness.
- Concentration: 4% is considered a gentle daily-use concentration. Effective range in studies is 5–20%, so this sits at the mild end.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice HighProven
Listed second in the INCI, indicating a significant concentration. Aloe vera is well known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. It helps counterbalance the potential irritation from glycolic acid.
- Soothing: Contains salicylates, polysaccharides, and magnesium lactate that calm inflammation.
- Hydrating: Acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the upper layers of the skin.
- Healing: Rich in Vitamins A, C, and E which provide antioxidant protection.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water ~2.7–4%Proven
A plant-derived distillate with astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Helps tighten pores and reduce oiliness. Note that this is the water/distillate form, which is generally gentler than alcohol-based witch hazel extracts.
- Astringent: Contains tannins that temporarily tighten skin and reduce pore appearance.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Research supports its ability to calm skin irritation and redness.
Zinc Gluconate LowPromising
The zinc salt of gluconic acid (a PHA). Offers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Particularly helpful for acne-prone skin, where zinc can help reduce inflammatory lesions.
- Anti-Acne: Studies show zinc compounds can reduce inflammatory acne when used topically.
- Mild PHA Activity: As a salt of gluconic acid, it may offer very mild exfoliation, though the concentration here is likely too low for significant PHA effect.
Glycerin ModerateProven
A skin-identical humectant that draws water into the skin and helps maintain the lipid barrier in a healthy state. Comedogenic rating: 0. Irritancy rating: 0. One of the best-studied and most effective moisturizing ingredients available.
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state.
- Hydration: Attracts and retains moisture in the outer layers of the skin.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil LowFragrance
A natural essential oil that gives this toner its characteristic citrus scent. Provides a pleasant sensory experience but is a known potential sensitizer and photosensitizing ingredient.
- Fragrance: Provides the fruity, citrus aroma many users enjoy.
- Antioxidant: Contains limonene and other compounds with mild antioxidant properties.
18 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycolic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium PCA, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Zinc Gluconate, Pentylene Glycol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse once per day in the evening only. Always follow with moisturizer. Apply sunscreen the next morning as AHA increases photosensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil. Pat skin dry with a clean towel.
Apply Toner to Cotton Round
Pour a dime-sized amount of SuperTone Toner onto a cotton pad. You do not need to saturate the pad — a little goes a long way.
Gently Sweep Over Face & Neck
Wipe the cotton pad gently over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area and lips. A mild tingling sensation is normal.
Let It Air Dry
Allow the toner to fully absorb and air dry before applying any follow-up products. This takes about 30–60 seconds.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always follow with a hydrating moisturizer to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier. e.l.f. recommends their SuperHydrate Moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want an affordable daily chemical exfoliant
- You struggle with dull, uneven skin tone or dark spots
- You have oily or combination skin and want a mattifying toner
- You want to minimize the appearance of pores
- You are looking for a vegan, cruelty-free AHA toner
- You are new to glycolic acid and want a gentle introduction
Consider alternatives if:
- You have sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin
- You have rosacea or eczema-prone skin
- You need a fungal acne (malassezia) safe product
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You are already using retinoids or strong AHAs/BHAs daily
- You are sensitive to citrus essential oils or fragrances
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGlycolic acid and witch hazel help control excess sebum. Watery formula absorbs instantly without adding shine. Great for mattifying and refining pores.
Balances oily T-zone while aloe and glycerin hydrate drier areas. Excellent for achieving an even complexion across face zones.
Works beautifully for maintaining healthy, bright skin. The 4% glycolic acid is gentle enough for daily evening use without over-exfoliating.
Effective for removing flaky dead skin, but witch hazel can be slightly drying. Always follow with a rich moisturizer. Consider using every other day.
Not recommended by the brand for sensitive skin. Contains glycolic acid, witch hazel, and lemon peel oil — all potential irritants. Opt for a PHA toner instead.
Low comedogenic rating and zinc gluconate supports acne management. However, not fungal acne safe. May cause initial purging in the first week or two.
Results timeline
MONTHS 3+Immediate Brightness & Mild Tingling
Skin feels smoother after the first use. You may notice a mild tingling or slight stinging on blemishes — this is normal for AHA products. Some users experience initial purging (small breakouts) as dead skin cells are cleared.
70% noticed smoother textureVisible Tone Improvement
Skin tone starts to even out. Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to fade. Pores appear visually smaller. Skin looks more radiant and refreshed in the morning after evening use.
65% noticed brighter complexionSignificant Clarity & Reduced Hyperpigmentation
Consistent use shows meaningful improvement in dark spots, acne marks, and overall skin clarity. Skin texture becomes noticeably smoother and more refined. Makeup applies more evenly.
80% noticed reduced dark spotsLong-Term Collagen & Anti-Aging Benefits
Long-term glycolic acid use stimulates collagen production, leading to firmer, plumper skin. Fine lines may appear softened. Sustained improvement in overall skin health and radiance.
60% noticed firmer skinRatings by platform
15K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — large 150ml bottle for around $8
- Effective at fading dark spots and post-acne marks
- Noticeable improvement in skin brightness and texture
- Gentle enough for daily evening use on non-sensitive skin
- 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and Fair Trade certified
- Clean ingredient list — only 18 ingredients, paraben-free
- Lasts 2–3 months with nightly use
- Makeup applies more smoothly with consistent use
Criticized
- Not suitable for sensitive skin — brand warns against it
- Strong citrus/chemical smell that some users dislike
- Can sting or burn on active blemishes or broken skin
- Contains lemon peel oil which is photosensitizing
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- 4% glycolic acid is on the lower end — may not be potent enough for experienced AHA users
- Witch hazel can be drying for very dry skin types
- Contains PEG ingredients that some prefer to avoid
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher glycolic acid concentration (7% vs 4%) at a similar price point with a larger 240ml bottle. Fragrance-free. More effective exfoliation but potentially more irritating. Contains soothing Tasmanian Pepperberry.
Uses gentler Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) instead of glycolic acid. Better for sensitive skin and those who find AHAs too irritating. Less effective at deep exfoliation but much less likely to sting or cause photosensitivity.
Uses Salicylic Acid (BHA) instead of Glycolic Acid (AHA). Better suited for oily, acne-prone skin. Also contains ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Different exfoliation mechanism — better for pores, less for brightening.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEe.l.f. SuperTone Toner
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use. Glycolic acid can degrade with light and heat exposure.
Opaque plastic bottle with screw-top cap. Spill-resistant and easy to control dispensing amount.
Yes — 150ml / 5.1 fl oz exceeds carry-on limit (100ml). Mini version (1.01 fl oz / 29.8ml) available for travel. Transfer to a smaller container if needed.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The SuperTone Toner contains 4% Glycolic Acid, which is generally considered low risk during pregnancy at concentrations under 10%. However, there are limited definitive studies on topical glycolic acid use in pregnant women. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that glycolic acid does not significantly absorb into the bloodstream, which is reassuring, but animal studies at very high doses showed potential reproductive concerns. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any AHA product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this toner is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which is derived from castor oil and may feed Malassezia yeast — the fungus responsible for pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). If you have fungal acne, look for toners that are free from oils, esters, polysorbates, and fatty acids. The glycolic acid itself is safe for fungal acne, but the overall formulation is not.
Be careful when combining this product with other active ingredients. Do not use retinol or retinoids on the same evening as this toner — the combination can cause excessive irritation, dryness, and barrier damage. You can alternate nights (e.g., toner one night, retinol the next). Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can be used in the morning while using this toner at night. Avoid layering additional AHAs or BHAs on top of this product as it already provides chemical exfoliation. Over-exfoliating can damage the skin barrier.
The SuperTone Toner is best suited for normal, oily, and combination skin types. It excels at controlling excess oil, refining pores, and brightening dull complexions. It can work for dry skin when paired with a rich moisturizer, but is explicitly not recommended for sensitive skin by the brand. The witch hazel and glycolic acid combination is ideal for those who want a toner that both exfoliates and balances oil production.
Most users report noticeably smoother, brighter skin within the first 1–2 weeks of consistent evening use. Visible improvement in dark spots and hyperpigmentation typically begins around weeks 2–4. For significant results in skin tone evening and post-acne mark fading, expect to use the product consistently for 1–2 months. Long-term anti-aging benefits (collagen stimulation, fine line reduction) require 3+ months of regular use.
Use the SuperTone Toner as Step 2 in your evening routine, right after cleansing. Apply to a cotton pad and sweep over face and neck, avoiding eyes and lips. Allow it to air dry, then follow with serum (if using), moisturizer, and optionally an overnight treatment. Do not use in the morning — save it for evening only. In the morning, apply sunscreen as the AHA increases UV sensitivity. The brand recommends pairing it with the e.l.f. SuperHydrate Moisturizer.
No, the SuperTone Toner has a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. Independent ingredient analysis shows no comedogenic risk ingredients in the formula. In fact, glycolic acid actively helps unclog pores by dissolving dead skin cell buildup. The watery, lightweight texture absorbs quickly and does not leave a residue that could contribute to pore congestion. It is unlikely to cause breakouts — though initial "purging" (small breakouts in the first 1–2 weeks) is possible as the acid accelerates skin cell turnover.
The SuperTone Toner has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. With nightly use of a dime-sized amount on a cotton pad, the 150ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months. Store the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve the efficacy of the glycolic acid. Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: The e.l.f. SuperTone Toner delivers exceptional value as a daily glycolic acid exfoliant. At around $8 for a generous 150ml bottle, it is one of the most affordable AHA toners on the market — and it genuinely works. The 4% glycolic acid concentration is gentle enough for AHA beginners while still delivering visible results in skin brightness, dark spot fading, and pore refinement within weeks. The supporting cast of aloe vera, glycerin, and zinc gluconate provides soothing, hydrating, and anti-blemish benefits. However, it falls short for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin (the brand itself warns against it), is not fungal acne safe due to PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, and the citrus fragrance from lemon peel oil may bother scent-sensitive users. Experienced AHA users may find the 4% concentration too mild compared to competitors like The Ordinary at 7%. Overall, it is an outstanding entry-level exfoliating toner at an unbeatable price — ideal for oily, normal, and combination skin types looking to brighten and refine their complexion on a budget.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|