The Spot Cream HQ Free
The Spot Cream HQ Free
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength, hydroquinone-free spot cream formulated with 17% Azelaic Acid, 4% Tranexamic Acid, and 1% Niacinamide to fade dark spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation — designed to be safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Targets Stubborn Melasma
Combines three proven brightening agents to tackle melasma, sun spots, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from multiple pathways.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTargets Stubborn Melasma
Combines three proven brightening agents to tackle melasma, sun spots, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from multiple pathways.
Safe During Pregnancy & Nursing
Specifically formulated without hydroquinone, retinoids, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. Designed for expecting and breastfeeding mothers.
Doctor-Prescribed & Supervised
Prescribed by a board-certified dermatologist after evaluating your skin through Musely's telemedicine platform, with 60-day consultation access included.
Freshly Compounded
Each bottle is custom-compounded at a licensed U.S. pharmacy and shipped immediately, ensuring maximum potency and freshness of active ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no hydroquinone, retinoids, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients. Azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide are considered safe during pregnancy. Always confirm with your OB/GYN.
All active ingredients in the HQ Free formula are compatible with breastfeeding. Musely specifically labels this formula as safe for nursing mothers.
Contains Isopropyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, and Polysorbate-type emulsifiers (Ceteth-20, Steareth-20) that can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne.
Azelaic acid can increase photosensitivity. Always use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen during the day while using this product.
Unlike Musely's HQ-based formulas (Erase, M+), the HQ Free version does not contain hydrocortisone or any corticosteroids, making it safe for long-term use.
Denatured alcohol is present as a solvent to help active ingredient penetration. May cause dryness in very sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Follow with moisturizer.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAzelaic Acid 17%Proven
A dicarboxylic acid that inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity to reduce melanin production, while also providing anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. It is the primary brightening agent in this formula.
- Clinical evidence: 20% azelaic acid performed comparably to 4% hydroquinone in reducing melasma in a 24-week clinical study (Lowe et al., 1998).
- Mechanism: Selectively targets overactive melanocytes without affecting normal pigmentation.
- Bonus: Also treats mild-to-moderate acne and rosacea by reducing inflammation and killing P. acnes bacteria.
Tranexamic Acid 4%Proven
A synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine that blocks the plasminogen/plasmin pathway, reducing UV-induced melanin transfer to skin cells. It works via a different mechanism than azelaic acid for synergistic brightening.
- Clinical evidence: Topical 3–5% tranexamic acid significantly improved melasma severity scores in multiple clinical trials (Ebrahimi & Naeini, 2014).
- Mechanism: Inhibits plasmin activity, which in turn reduces prostaglandin and arachidonic acid production that stimulates melanocytes.
- Safety: Well-tolerated with minimal irritation potential; safe for all skin tones including Fitzpatrick IV–VI.
Niacinamide 1%Proven
Vitamin B3 derivative that inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, reducing visible pigmentation. Also strengthens the skin barrier and reduces inflammation.
- Clinical evidence: 2–5% niacinamide reduced hyperpigmentation and improved skin barrier function in multiple randomized controlled trials.
- Mechanism: Blocks up to 68% of melanosome transfer to surrounding skin cells.
- Bonus: Supports ceramide production, improves skin elasticity, and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Kojic Acid ExcipientPromising
A natural byproduct of fungal fermentation (Aspergillus oryzae) that chelates copper ions necessary for tyrosinase activity, providing an additional melanin-inhibiting pathway.
- Clinical evidence: 0.75% kojic acid performed comparably to 4% hydroquinone for melasma treatment over 12 weeks (Monteiro et al., 2013).
- Note: Listed as an inactive/excipient ingredient by Musely, so it will not appear on the active ingredient label.
39 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Azelaic Acid 17%, Tranexamic Acid 4%, Niacinamide 1%
Inactive Ingredients: Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Sodium Bisulfate, BHT, Acrylates/C12-22 Alkyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Bis-Vinyldimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Ceteth-20, Cetyl Alcohol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dicaprylyl Ether, Dimethicone, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Glyceryl Stearate, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Isododecane, Isopropyl Palmitate, Laureth-12, Lecithin, Ozokerite, PEG-75 Stearate, Petrolatum, Polysilicone-11, Potassium Sorbate, Propylene Carbonate, Silica, Silica Silylate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Sorbic Acid, Steareth-20, Titanium Dioxide, Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once daily in the evening on clean, dry skin. Always follow with moisturizer to reduce irritation and SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen every morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash your face with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser and pat dry completely. Wait 1–2 minutes to ensure skin is fully dry before application.
Apply One Pump
Dispense one pump of The Spot Cream HQ Free. Apply as a spot treatment on dark patches or massage a thin layer evenly across the entire face, as directed by your Musely dermatologist.
Moisturize
Wait 5–10 minutes for the cream to absorb, then apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer on top. During the first 2–4 weeks, you can mix the cream with moisturizer to reduce potential irritation.
Sunscreen (Morning)
Every morning, apply a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Sun protection is essential — without it, dark spots will darken and return regardless of treatment.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have melasma, sun spots, age spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe brightening treatment
- You want to avoid hydroquinone due to sensitivity or personal preference
- OTC dark spot treatments haven't delivered results after months of use
- You want prescription-strength actives without an in-person dermatology visit
- You need a long-term brightening solution (no cycling off required)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — formula is not FA-safe
- You have very sensitive or eczema-prone skin (alcohol denat. may irritate)
- You want faster, more dramatic results (HQ-based formulas work quicker)
- You live outside the United States (Musely currently only ships within the U.S.)
- Your hyperpigmentation is severe or widespread (consider in-person dermatology)
- You prefer to avoid prescription commitments and subscription services
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAzelaic acid helps control sebum and treat acne. The cream base is on the richer side, but the alcohol denat. helps balance oil. May feel slightly heavy for very oily skin.
Glycerin and petrolatum in the base provide decent hydration. However, alcohol denat. may cause some dryness. Always layer a rich moisturizer on top.
Works well across different face zones. Azelaic acid balances sebum in the T-zone while niacinamide supports the skin barrier in drier areas.
Azelaic acid is generally well-tolerated, but the alcohol denat. and 17% concentration may cause initial stinging. Start by mixing with moisturizer for the first few weeks.
Azelaic acid is FDA-approved for acne treatment. However, some inactive ingredients (isopropyl palmitate, cetyl alcohol) may be mildly comedogenic for breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 3–6Adjustment Period
Mild tingling, redness, or slight peeling may occur as your skin adjusts to the 17% azelaic acid. This is normal and typically resolves. Some users notice an initial slight darkening of spots before they begin to fade.
~80% experience mild tinglingEarly Brightening
Skin begins to look more even-toned. Redness and inflammation around dark patches start to decrease. Overall complexion appears brighter and more radiant.
~40% notice early improvementVisible Fading
Musely states most users see noticeable results by this point. Dark spots and melasma patches visibly lighten. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne scars begins to even out.
~65% see visible resultsSignificant Improvement
Continued brightening with consistent use. Melasma patches substantially reduced. Best results require ongoing daily use combined with strict sun protection.
~80% report significant fadingRatings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding — one of the few prescription options available
- Prescription-strength azelaic acid (17%) — much higher than OTC 10% limit
- Multi-pathway brightening approach with three proven active ingredients
- No need to cycle off — safe for continuous long-term use unlike hydroquinone
- Freshly compounded for maximum potency
- Dermatologist-supervised with 60-day consultation included
- FSA/HSA eligible; more affordable than in-office visits
Criticized
- Results are slower compared to hydroquinone-based Musely formulas (6–12 weeks vs. 2–4 weeks)
- Niacinamide at 1% is below most clinically studied concentrations (2–5%)
- 30 mL bottle may run out before the stated 2-month supply for some users
- Not fungal acne safe due to several comedogenic inactive ingredients
- Contains alcohol denat. which may cause dryness or irritation
- Only available in the United States through Musely's platform
- Requires $20 doctor visit fee on first order in addition to product cost
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
OTC-strength azelaic acid at 10% (vs. 17% prescription). No tranexamic acid or niacinamide in formula. Silicone-based texture feels different. Good starting point before upgrading to Rx-strength.
Contains 5% tranexamic acid plus niacinamide and kojic acid — covers two of the three active pathways in The Spot Cream HQ Free. No azelaic acid though. OTC, no prescription needed.
10% azelaic acid in a lightweight gel-cream. Also contains salicylic acid (not pregnancy safe). Higher quality base ingredients but lower active concentration and missing tranexamic acid.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Curology Custom Formula
Apostrophe Dark Spot Treatment
Civant Meladerm (OTC)
Storage & shelf life
2 MONTHS2 months after opening (designed to be used within one refill cycle). Freshly compounded prescriptions have a shorter shelf life than commercial products.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature (59–77°F / 15–25°C) is ideal. Do not freeze. Keep cap tightly closed when not in use.
Airless pump bottle (30 mL). The pump mechanism helps preserve the freshly compounded formula by minimizing air exposure and contamination.
Yes, under 100 mL / 3.4 oz — TSA-approved for carry-on luggage. Compact pump bottle fits easily in travel skincare bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The HQ Free formula was specifically designed for pregnant and nursing women. It contains Azelaic Acid (17%), Tranexamic Acid (4%), and Niacinamide (1%) — all of which are considered safe during pregnancy and lactation by dermatological guidelines. It does not contain hydroquinone, retinoids, or corticosteroids. Musely explicitly labels this formula as safe for nursing and pregnant users. However, always consult your OB/GYN before starting any new treatment during pregnancy.
No. While azelaic acid itself has antifungal properties, the inactive ingredient base contains several components that can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. These include Isopropyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Ceteth-20, Steareth-20, Glyceryl Stearate, and Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil. If you have fungal acne, consider a standalone azelaic acid product with a simpler, FA-safe base formula.
Azelaic acid generally pairs well with most other actives, but caution is needed. You can safely use it alongside vitamin C (morning) and the cream (evening). For retinol, alternate nights during the first few weeks to avoid over-irritation, then gradually build up to using both. Avoid layering AHAs (glycolic, lactic) or BHAs (salicylic acid) directly with the cream in the same routine, as this may cause excessive irritation. Your Musely dermatologist can provide a personalized routine plan.
The HQ Free formula works best for combination skin types and is suitable for most skin types. It is particularly well-suited for anyone who needs a brightening treatment but wants to avoid hydroquinone. Oily and acne-prone skin types benefit from azelaic acid's sebum-regulating properties. Dry skin types should pair it with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin types may experience initial tingling — start by mixing with moisturizer for the first 2–4 weeks.
Musely states most users begin to see visible results within 6–8 weeks of consistent, daily use. Some users report early improvements in skin brightness as soon as 3–4 weeks. Full results for stubborn melasma may take 3–6 months of continuous use. Results are generally slower compared to hydroquinone-based formulas, but the HQ Free version can be used indefinitely without cycling off. Strict daily sunscreen use is essential for optimal results.
Apply The Spot Cream HQ Free as a treatment step after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer. Use it once daily in the evening on clean, dry skin. Dispense one pump and either apply as a spot treatment or spread a thin layer across the face. Wait 5–10 minutes before applying moisturizer. In the morning, always apply mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30+ as the final step in your routine.
The formula has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5. While azelaic acid itself is non-comedogenic and even helps unclog pores, some inactive ingredients in the base — such as Isopropyl Palmitate (comedogenic rating 4), Cetyl Alcohol (rating 2), and Petrolatum — may contribute to clogging in acne-prone individuals. If you are highly prone to breakouts, monitor your skin closely during the first few weeks and discuss any concerns with your Musely dermatologist.
Each 30 mL bottle is designed to last approximately 2 months when used as directed (one pump per day). Because this is a freshly compounded prescription, it has a shorter shelf life than mass-produced products. Use within the 2-month refill cycle for best potency. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the pump cap closed. Some users report the product running out before the 2-month mark if applying to larger areas of the face.
Verdict: Musely's The Spot Cream HQ Free is one of the few prescription-strength brightening treatments specifically designed for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The combination of 17% azelaic acid, 4% tranexamic acid, and niacinamide attacks hyperpigmentation from multiple pathways — and it can be used long-term without the cycling required by hydroquinone. Results are slower than Musely's HQ-based formulas, and the inactive ingredient base isn't ideal for fungal acne sufferers. But for anyone who needs a safe, doctor-supervised brightening treatment without hydroquinone, retinoids, or steroids, the HQ Free formula is a strong and well-researched option at a competitive price point.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 6 |
Kojic Acid
Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|