Thinkderma 2% Rice Water & Niacinamide Clear Moisture Gel Cream
Thinkderma 2% Rice Water & Niacinamide Clear Moisture Gel Cream
Product Description
Product overview
By Plum Goodness — a lightweight, oil-free gel-cream moisturizer powered by 2% Niacinamide and Japanese Rice Water. Designed to deliver all-day hydration without greasiness while brightening tone, fading post-acne marks, regulating sebum, and refining texture for a smooth, matte-dewy finish.
2× Hydration, Zero Grease
Water-based gel formula delivers deep moisture without the heavy, sticky feel typical of cream moisturizers.
Texture & feel
SENSORY2× Hydration, Zero Grease
Water-based gel formula delivers deep moisture without the heavy, sticky feel typical of cream moisturizers.
Visibly Brighter in 2 Weeks
2% Niacinamide works to fade post-acne marks, even out tone, and restore natural radiance.
Instant Oil & Shine Control
Matmarine™ (brown algae biotech) regulates sebum and keeps skin matte all day.
Japanese Rice Water Glow
Oryza Sativa extract softens and smooths texture for that hallmark "rice water" luminosity.
Cactus Water Hydration
Prickly pear stem water locks in moisture and reinforces the skin barrier.
100% Vegan & PETA Certified
From India's first 100% vegan beauty brand — clean, conscious, and cruelty-free.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Niacinamide is widely considered safe during pregnancy. Always check with your OB-GYN.
Contains Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract and Triolein, which may feed Malassezia in fungal-acne-prone skin.
Squalane, glycerin, and silicone-based emollients are extremely low-risk for clogging pores. Safe for most acne-prone skin.
No added perfumes, essential oils, or harsh alcohols. Suitable for reactive skin types after a patch test.
Pairs beautifully with Vitamin C, retinol, AHAs, and BHAs. Acts as a calming buffer over potent treatments.
Apply a small amount on your inner arm for 24 hours before facial use, especially if you have very sensitive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2%Proven
The hero active. A water-soluble form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, fades blemishes, controls sebum, and visibly brightens.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD+ in skin cells, supporting collagen synthesis and barrier repair.
- Benefits: Reduces pores, dark spots, redness, and uneven tone with consistent use.
- Concentration: 2% is the gentle, beginner-friendly tier — well-tolerated even by sensitive skin.
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract ~3-5%Promising
Japanese rice water extract rich in amino acids, vitamins B and E, and inositol — traditionally prized for radiance and softness.
- Brightening: Inositol and ferulic acid help inhibit excess melanin production.
- Texture: Smooths skin surface and supports a luminous, even tone.
- Heritage: Centuries of use in East Asian beauty rituals (Geisha tradition).
Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract (Antarcticine) 1-3%Promising
A glycoprotein from an Antarctic marine bacterium. Known commercially as Antarcticine, it is positioned as a hydration and barrier-support active.
- Hydration: Manufacturer studies link 1–5% concentrations with measurable hydration boost.
- Smoothing: Claimed to support skin smoothness and elasticity.
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Water (Cactus Water) ~2-4%Promising
Prickly pear cactus stem water packed with antioxidants, electrolytes, and amino acids that hydrate while reinforcing the skin barrier.
- Antioxidant: Contains betalains and vitamin E to neutralize free radicals.
- Lightweight hydration: Replenishes moisture without heaviness — ideal for oily skin.
Glycerin ~5-10%Proven
The gold-standard humectant. Pulls water into the skin from the air and deeper layers, keeping it plump and supple.
- Decades of evidence: One of the most studied moisturizing actives.
- Universally tolerated: Safe for all skin types including sensitive.
Squalane ~1-3%Proven
A stable, plant-derived emollient that mimics the skin's natural sebum. Provides cushion and smoothness without grease.
- Skin-identical: Excellent compatibility with all skin types.
- Fungal-acne friendly: Unlike many oils, squalane is safe for Malassezia-prone skin.
- Non-comedogenic: Will not clog pores.
Caprylyl Methicone & Cyclopentasiloxane Silicone BlendProven
Volatile silicones that create the cream's signature silky, fast-absorbing, non-tacky finish without leaving residue.
- Texture: Responsible for the "blurring" smooth feel.
- Evaporates: Does not absorb into skin — leaves a soft, breathable finish.
16 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Niacinamide, Oryza Sativa Extract, Caprylyl Methicone, PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer, Triolein, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Water, Squalane, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Ethoxydiglycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply on damp skin after serum. AM: always follow with SPF. PM: this is your final hydration step before bed.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a gentle cleanser, then pat on a hydrating toner with damp hands.
Apply Serums First
Layer your treatment serums (Vitamin C in AM, retinol/AHA at PM) and let them absorb for 30 seconds.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Place small dots on forehead, both cheeks, chin, and nose — a little goes a long way.
Massage In Upward
Gently massage in slow upward-outward circular motions across face and neck until fully absorbed.
Lock In With SPF (AM)
Always finish your morning routine with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You're a skincare beginner looking for a gentle entry to niacinamide
- You hate sticky, heavy, occlusive moisturizers
- You want to fade post-acne marks and even out tone
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe daily moisturizer
- You live in humid climates and need lightweight hydration
- You want a vegan, fragrance-free formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin needing rich emollience
- You're prone to fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
- You dislike silicone-based "slip" finishes
- You have a known sensitivity to ferment extracts
- You need an anti-aging cream with peptides or retinoids
- You want a moisturizer with built-in SPF
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe hero match — oil-free gel base + Matmarine™ keep shine in check while delivering deep hydration.
Balances the T-zone while hydrating drier cheeks. Niacinamide refines pores beautifully.
Non-comedogenic (1/5), oil-free, and helps fade post-acne marks. Note: not fungal-acne safe.
Fragrance-free and gentle, but ferment extract may not suit very reactive skin. Patch test first.
Comfortable everyday hydrator with brightening benefits — works well year-round.
Lightweight texture may not be enough alone — layer over a richer cream or hydrating serum in winter.
Results timeline
8-12 WEEKSSoft, Hydrated, Matte Finish
Skin feels instantly plumper, smoother, and oil-free. The fast-absorbing gel disappears in seconds.
95% noticedLess Shine, Better Texture
Sebum production starts to balance. Pores look slightly less visible after consistent twice-daily use.
78% noticedVisible Brightening Begins
Brand claims and user reports show early brightening — skin appears more even-toned and luminous.
68% noticedFaded Post-Acne Marks
Niacinamide's full pigmentation-fading benefits typically peak around the 4–8 week mark.
62% noticedStronger Barrier & Refined Pores
Long-term niacinamide use is associated with strengthened skin barrier, reduced redness, and refined pore appearance.
55% noticedRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Truly lightweight, water-like absorption
- Non-greasy, leaves a smooth matte finish
- Fragrance-free — sensitive-skin friendly
- Beginner-friendly 2% niacinamide concentration
- Visibly fades post-acne marks within 2–4 weeks
- Affordable price point vs. K-beauty equivalents
- 100% vegan and PETA-certified cruelty-free
- Works well under sunscreen and makeup
Criticized
- Not fungal-acne safe (contains ferment + triolein)
- Insufficient for very dry or mature skin
- Pump packaging can be inconsistent
- Some batches feel slightly tacky on application
- Active concentrations not all disclosed
- Limited international availability
- No SPF — needs separate sunscreen layer (AM)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 5% niacinamide concentration with similar lightweight gel-cream texture. More aggressive brightening but slightly more potential for irritation in beginners.
Simpler hydration-focused formula without niacinamide — no oil control or brightening. Better for dry skin types looking for basic hydration.
Adds Centella Asiatica for soothing benefits. Similar price and gel-cream texture, leans more calming than oil-controlling.
Hyaluronic-acid based water gel with similar absorption feel, but no niacinamide or rice water. Pure hydration without active brightening.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed.
Glass jar with screw-on lid (50 g) or pump tube (45 g, varies by SKU)
Yes — under 100 ml/g, fits TSA carry-on rules. 15 g mini size also available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this gel cream is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any of the commonly restricted ingredients during pregnancy — no retinoids (retinol, retinyl palmitate, tretinoin), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical sunscreens. Niacinamide is widely accepted as a pregnancy-safe brightening alternative to vitamin A derivatives. That said, every pregnancy is unique — please confirm with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing any new product.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract (a marine bacterial ferment) and Triolein, both of which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne breakouts in susceptible individuals. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with fungal acne (small uniform bumps on forehead, chest, or back), consider a strictly fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Yes, niacinamide pairs extremely well with all these actives. Use vitamin C in the morning (the older "niacinamide cancels vitamin C" myth has been debunked at typical use concentrations). Apply your retinol, AHA, or BHA serum first, then layer this gel cream on top to buffer potential irritation and hydrate the barrier. The lightweight texture won't pill under or over most other actives.
It's specifically formulated for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin — and excels at controlling shine, refining pores, and fading post-acne marks. It also works for normal and sensitive skin (fragrance-free formula). Dry or mature skin types may find it under-moisturizing on its own and may want to layer it under a richer cream, especially in winter.
Hydration and matte finish are immediate. The brand claims visible brightening within 2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Niacinamide's full pigmentation-fading benefits — including post-acne marks and uneven tone — typically peak around 4 to 8 weeks. Long-term improvements in barrier strength and pore appearance build up over 8–12 weeks.
Apply it after your serums and treatments, but before your sunscreen (AM) or before bed (PM). The full order: cleanser → toner → serum → this moisturizer → eye cream → SPF in the morning. As a moisturizer, it's the second-to-last step in your skincare routine — sunscreen is always last in the AM.
No — it's rated approximately 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. The formula is oil-free, uses non-comedogenic squalane and silicones, and is dermatologist-tested. It's marketed as suitable for acne-prone skin. The main caveat is fungal acne (see above), but for typical bacterial acne (P. acnes), it's a safe choice.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Look for the small jar icon with "12M" on the packaging. To preserve potency: keep the lid tight, store in a cool dry place away from sunlight, and use clean hands or a spatula to scoop. Niacinamide is a stable active that doesn't degrade quickly, so you should get the full year of use.
Verdict: Plum thinkDERMA 2% Niacinamide & Rice Water Clear Moisture Gel Cream is a standout lightweight moisturizer for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The 2% niacinamide is gentle yet effective for fading post-acne marks and balancing sebum, while rice water and cactus water deliver that K-beauty-style luminosity at a fraction of the price. The fragrance-free, vegan, PETA-certified formula makes it pregnancy-friendly and beginner-safe. Main caveats:not fungal-acne safe due to ferment extract, and dry skin types will likely need a richer cream in winter. For its target audience, it's an outstanding value buy that delivers on its core claims of lightweight hydration, oil control, and brightening.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract
Humectant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Oryza Sativa Extract
Absorbent, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylyl Methicone
Skin Conditioning
|
|