Tretinoin 0.025% Cream
Tretinoin 0.025% Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Mylan Tretinoin 0.025% Cream is a prescription-strength topical retinoid containing pure all-trans retinoic acid (vitamin A acid) in a hydrophilic cream base. FDA-approved for the treatment of acne vulgaris and widely used off-label for photoaging, this gentle entry-level concentration delivers gold-standard results — clearing breakouts, fading dark spots, smoothing fine lines, and refining skin texture — through accelerated cell turnover and collagen stimulation.
FDA-Approved Anti-Aging
The only topical anti-aging ingredient FDA-approved for wrinkle treatment. Pure retinoic acid acts directly on skin receptors — no conversion needed.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFDA-Approved Anti-Aging
The only topical anti-aging ingredient FDA-approved for wrinkle treatment. Pure retinoic acid acts directly on skin receptors — no conversion needed.
Beginner-Friendly Strength
The mildest prescription tretinoin concentration — ideal for first-time retinoid users with minimal irritation while still delivering proven results.
Hydrophilic Cream Base
Moisturizing cream vehicle with stearyl alcohol and isopropyl myristate helps offset tretinoin's drying nature for better tolerance than gel formulas.
Multi-Tasking Powerhouse
Treats acne, fades hyperpigmentation, smooths fine lines, refines pores, and improves overall skin texture — all in one prescription tube.
Minimalist Formula
Just 9 ingredients with no fragrance, parabens, sulfates, silicones, or common allergens. SkinSAFE-certified free of top 11 most common irritants.
Clinically Validated
Vehicle-controlled clinical trials confirm tretinoin 0.025% applied once daily significantly reduces acne lesions versus vehicle alone over 12 weeks.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All retinoids carry teratogenic risk and must be discontinued before conception. Consult your physician.
Contains stearic acid, isopropyl myristate, PEG-40 stearate, and stearyl alcohol — fatty acids and esters that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Tretinoin makes skin highly photosensitive. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable to prevent sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and product breakdown.
Initial breakouts, dryness, and peeling are common as skin cell turnover accelerates. This is normal and resolves with continued use.
Do not pair with benzoyl peroxide (deactivates tretinoin), AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C in the same routine. Alternate on different nights instead.
Works beautifully with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, peptides, and gentle moisturizers. Layer underneath for the "sandwich method."
Available only with valid Rx in the United States. Not for use on broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin without medical supervision.
Keep away from eyes, lips, nostrils, and corners of the mouth. Apply only to acne-affected facial areas as directed by your dermatologist.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTretinoin 0.025%Proven
The gold-standard anti-aging active and the only FDA-approved topical for both acne and photoaging. As pure all-trans retinoic acid, it binds directly to skin receptors and does not require enzymatic conversion — making it 20× stronger than over-the-counter retinol at the same concentration.
- Mechanism: Decreases cohesiveness of follicular epithelial cells, reducing microcomedo formation and unclogging pores.
- Cell turnover: Accelerates keratinocyte renewal, sloughing dead cells and revealing newer skin.
- Collagen synthesis: Stimulates type I collagen production, smoothing fine lines and improving firmness.
- Pigmentation: Inhibits tyrosinase activity, fading sun spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Stearic Acid ~5–8%Proven
A naturally occurring fatty acid found in shea and cocoa butter. Functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and viscosity controller — giving the cream its smooth, spreadable texture and helping the formula stay homogenous over time.
- Skin barrier: Mimics naturally occurring lipids in the stratum corneum to support barrier function.
- Texture: Provides body and creamy feel, improving spreadability across the face.
Isopropyl Myristate ~3–5%Proven
A clear, fast-spreading emollient ester that gives the cream a non-greasy slip. It enhances penetration of other actives by softening the stratum corneum and reducing surface friction.
- Penetration: Helps tretinoin reach deeper layers of the epidermis where it acts on skin cells.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 3/5 — may be problematic for very acne-prone skin in high concentrations.
PEG-40 Stearate ~2–4%Proven
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier formed from polyethylene glycol and stearic acid. Keeps water and oil phases blended into a stable cream and acts as a mild solubilizer.
- Function: Emulsifier that prevents the cream from separating during shelf life.
- Skin tolerance: Generally well-tolerated, low irritation potential at use levels.
Stearyl Alcohol ~2–4%Proven
A fatty alcohol — not the drying kind — that thickens, softens, and creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface. Helps reduce trans-epidermal water loss and counteracts some of tretinoin's drying effects.
- Occlusive: Forms a light film that locks in moisture for prolonged hydration.
- Emollient: Smooths skin texture and gives the cream a silky after-feel.
Xanthan Gum <1%Proven
A plant-derived polysaccharide produced by fermentation of sugars with Xanthomonas campestris. Acts as a natural thickener and emulsion stabilizer, ensuring the cream maintains its consistency from first to last application.
- Stability: Prevents ingredient separation and improves shelf-life uniformity.
- Sensorial: Contributes to the cream's smooth glide without tackiness.
Sorbic Acid <0.6%Proven
The most widely used food and cosmetic preservative globally. Inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and certain bacteria, keeping the formula safe and effective throughout its shelf life. Generally considered low-irritation.
- Spectrum: Effective against fungal contamination at low concentrations.
- Safety: EU and FDA approved for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use.
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) <0.1%Proven
A synthetic antioxidant that protects oxidation-sensitive ingredients — most importantly tretinoin itself, which degrades rapidly in air and light. Without BHT, the cream's potency would drop significantly within weeks.
- Antioxidant: Scavenges free radicals that would otherwise destabilize the active.
- Regulatory: Currently approved for use in topical products by both the FDA and EU.
Purified Water ~80%+Proven
The base solvent of the hydrophilic cream vehicle. Pharmaceutical-grade purified water dissolves water-soluble components and forms the continuous phase of the emulsion, giving the formula its lightweight, hydrating feel.
- Vehicle: Cream base classification — hydrophilic (water-loving) versus drier gel formulations.
- Tolerance: Cream vehicles are typically less irritating than alcohol-based gels for tretinoin.
9 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Tretinoin 0.025%. Inactive Ingredients: Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, PEG-40 Stearate (Polyoxyl 40 Stearate), Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid, BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), Purified Water.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways apply tretinoin to fully dry skin (wait 20 minutes after cleansing) to minimize irritation. Use only at night, never with retinol or other retinoids, and always finish your AM routine with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash your face with a mild, non-foaming cleanser and pat completely dry. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliating cleansers on tretinoin nights.
Wait 20 Minutes
Allow skin to dry fully before applying. Damp skin enhances penetration and dramatically increases irritation potential.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dot a pea-sized amount across forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose. Spread thinly across the entire face, avoiding eyes, lips, and nostrils.
Wait Another 20 Minutes
Let the cream fully absorb before applying any other product. Layering immediately can dilute the active and increase stinging.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer with ceramides or hyaluronic acid to buffer dryness. The "sandwich method" works for very sensitive skin.
Build Frequency Gradually
Start with 2–3 nights per week for 2 weeks, then increase to every other night, and finally nightly as tolerance builds. Skip if irritated.
Daily SPF Is Mandatory
Every single morning, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ regardless of weather. Tretinoin makes skin highly photosensitive, especially in the first months.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with persistent acne (comedonal, inflammatory, or hormonal)
- You're starting your first prescription retinoid and want the gentlest concentration
- You're dealing with fine lines, photoaging, or sun damage
- You have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or stubborn dark spots
- You want refined pores and smoother skin texture
- Your skin tolerates retinol but you're ready to graduate to the gold standard
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have severe rosacea, eczema, or compromised skin barrier
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen use
- You experience malassezia (fungal) acne
- You have known sensitivity to retinoids or any inactive ingredient
- You aren't willing to push through a 4–6 week purge period
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESExcellent fit. Tretinoin normalizes sebum production and decongests pores — oily, acne-prone skin tolerates it best and sees the fastest results.
Workable but expect significant peeling and dryness. Use the sandwich method (moisturizer–tretinoin–moisturizer) and start at 1–2× per week.
A great match. The 0.025% strength balances effectiveness with tolerability across both oily T-zones and drier cheek areas.
Possible with caution. Cream vehicle is gentler than gel, but still expect irritation. Patch test first and consider buffering with moisturizer.
The gold standard. FDA-approved specifically for acne vulgaris and proven in clinical trials to reduce inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions.
Highly effective for fine lines and photoaging. The mild 0.025% concentration is gentle enough for thinner mature skin while still building collagen.
Results timeline
YEAR 1+Adjustment Phase
Mild dryness, tightness, and possibly some flaking. Skin is adapting to accelerated cell turnover. Stick to 2–3 applications per week to start.
~85% experience initial drynessThe Purge
Pre-existing micro-comedones surface as visible breakouts. This is temporary and a sign tretinoin is working. Resist the urge to quit.
~60% experience purgingSkin Begins to Clear
Active acne diminishes, blackheads soften, skin texture starts to feel smoother. Initial irritation usually subsides as tolerance builds.
~70% see acne improvementVisible Transformation
Significant reduction in active breakouts, fading of post-acne marks, refined pores, and an overall more even tone. Many users report a "glow."
~80% see clear improvementAnti-Aging Benefits Emerge
Collagen remodeling becomes visible — fine lines soften, sun spots fade, and skin looks firmer and brighter. Acne is typically well controlled.
~90% see anti-aging gainsLong-Term Maintenance
Cumulative collagen synthesis delivers continued improvement in firmness and texture. Users often report being mistaken for younger after consistent use.
~95% maintain results long-termRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- FDA-approved gold-standard active for both acne and anti-aging
- Pure retinoic acid — 20× stronger than OTC retinol
- Mildest prescription concentration, ideal for beginners
- Cream vehicle is more hydrating than gel formulations
- Minimalist 9-ingredient formula with no fragrance or common allergens
- Significantly more affordable than brand-name Retin-A
- Visible results within 8–12 weeks for most users
- Decades of clinical evidence and dermatologist endorsement
Criticized
- Requires a valid prescription in the United States
- Initial purging and dryness can last 4–6 weeks
- Strictly contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Increases sun sensitivity — daily SPF is non-negotiable
- Not fungal-acne safe due to fatty acids and esters
- Cannot be combined with benzoyl peroxide, AHAs, or BHAs
- Storage below 80°F required to maintain potency
- Some users report breakouts worsen before improving
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical generic formulation from another FDA-approved manufacturer. Same active concentration, same hydrophilic cream vehicle, similar inactive ingredient profile. Often the cheapest pharmacy substitute.
Generic equivalent from Sandoz with the same FDA-approved active and similar cream base. Bioequivalent to brand-name Retin-A. Tube size and packaging may vary by pharmacy.
The only OTC retinoid in the US — no prescription needed. Different molecule (adapalene), gentler on sensitive skin but slower to deliver anti-aging benefits versus tretinoin.
An OTC alternative using hydroxypinacolone retinoate. Far gentler with minimal irritation, but requires conversion in the skin and works much more slowly than prescription tretinoin.
Encapsulated retinol with niacinamide and ceramides. Roughly 20× weaker than tretinoin but no prescription required. A solid bridge product for retinoid newcomers.
Pure retinol cream with proven anti-aging research, but still requires conversion to retinoic acid in the skin. Slower results, gentler tolerance, and no prescription barrier.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEBrand-Name Retin-A 0.025% Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use by the printed expiration date for guaranteed potency.
Store below 80°F (27°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tube tightly closed to prevent oxidation.
45 g aluminum tube with tight-sealing screw cap. Light-blocking packaging protects tretinoin from photodegradation.
Yes, the 45 g tube is well under 100 ml TSA limits for carry-on. Avoid leaving in hot cars or direct sun during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. All retinoids — including topical tretinoin — are strictly contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to documented teratogenic risk. Discontinue use before trying to conceive and consult your physician for pregnancy-safe alternatives such as azelaic acid or glycolic acid. Topical absorption is low, but the FDA classifies tretinoin as Category C and dermatologists universally recommend avoiding it entirely throughout pregnancy and lactation.
No. The cream contains stearic acid, isopropyl myristate, PEG-40 stearate, and stearyl alcohol — fatty acids and esters that may feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne breakouts. If you suspect fungal acne (small uniform bumps, often on forehead and back), the gel formulation of tretinoin or adapalene gel may be safer alternatives. Speak with a dermatologist for accurate diagnosis.
Avoid layering tretinoin in the same routine with other retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, or benzoyl peroxide — the combined irritation can severely damage the skin barrier, and benzoyl peroxide actually deactivates tretinoin on contact. Best practice: use vitamin C and SPF in the morning, and reserve tretinoin for evening application. AHAs and BHAs can be alternated on non-tretinoin nights once your skin has fully adjusted.
It's best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — these tolerate tretinoin most easily and see the fastest acne and texture results. The cream vehicle (versus gel) makes it the more comfortable choice for normal-to-dry and beginner skin. Sensitive and very dry skin types can use it with caution by buffering with moisturizer and starting at 1–2 nights per week. Mature skin benefits from its anti-aging effects and the gentle 0.025% concentration.
Most users see noticeable improvement in acne and skin texture between 6 and 12 weeks of consistent nightly use. Hyperpigmentation fading typically becomes visible at 3 months. Anti-aging benefits — fine line softening, improved firmness, and skin radiance — emerge around the 6-month mark and continue improving with long-term consistent use. Expect an initial 4–6 week purge period where breakouts may temporarily worsen as deep clogs surface.
Tretinoin is strictly a nighttime product. Apply only after a thorough PM cleanse, after waiting 20 minutes for the skin to fully dry. Use a pea-sized amount across the entire face, then wait another 20 minutes before applying moisturizer. Never use during the day — UV light degrades the molecule and increases photosensitivity dramatically. Always finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Tretinoin itself is the opposite of comedogenic — it actively unclogs pores by accelerating cell turnover. However, two inactive ingredients (isopropyl myristate and PEG-40 stearate) carry comedogenic ratings of 3/5, meaning they can be problematic for very acne-reactive skin in high concentrations. In practice, the active's pore-clearing effect dominates and the product is widely used to treat acne. If you find it triggers breakouts beyond the initial purge, the gel formulation may suit you better.
The cream is stable for 12 months after opening when stored properly — below 80°F (27°C), tightly closed, and away from light. Always check the printed expiration date on the tube and discard after that date. Tretinoin is highly oxidation-sensitive, so signs of degradation include yellowing, separation, or loss of efficacy. Keep the tube cap closed when not in use to maximize shelf life.
Verdict: Mylan Tretinoin 0.025% Cream by Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc is the gold-standard prescription retinoid in its most beginner-friendly form. With FDA approval, decades of clinical evidence, and a minimalist 9-ingredient formula free of fragrance and common allergens, it delivers proven results for both acne and photoaging at a fraction of the brand-name Retin-A price. The cream vehicle is more forgiving than gel formulations, making it an excellent first-step prescription retinoid. Just commit to daily SPF, accept the 4–6 week purge period, and avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types willing to invest 8–12 weeks for clear, smoother, more even-toned skin, this is one of the most evidence-backed actives in dermatology.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Myristate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-40 Stearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Foam Boosting, Masking, Opacifying, Refatting, Viscosity Controlling
|
|