Tretinoin 0.05% Cream
Tretinoin 0.05% Cream
Product Description
A prescription-strength retinoid cream from Obagi featuring 0.05% tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) β the gold-standard, FDA-approved active for acne vulgaris, photoaging, fine lines, and uneven tone. Formulated in a hydrophilic cream base with a minimalist 9-ingredient list, fragrance-free and designed for nightly use to accelerate cell turnover and stimulate collagen production.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Cellular Renewal
Tretinoin binds directly to retinoic acid receptors, accelerating skin cell turnover at the source β no conversion required.
Mid-Strength Sweet Spot
0.05% is the most-prescribed concentration β strong enough for visible results, milder than 0.1% for tolerability.
Hydrophilic Cream Base
The creamy vehicle with stearic acid and stearyl alcohol cushions the active and reduces dryness vs. gel formulas.
Minimalist Formula
Just 9 ingredients, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free of essential oils β fewer triggers for sensitive skin.
Gold-Standard Active
Tretinoin is the only retinoid FDA-approved for both acne and photoaging, with 60+ years of clinical research backing it.
Medical-Grade Brand
Obagi has built a 30+ year legacy in physician-dispensed skincare, distributed exclusively through medical providers.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Topical tretinoin is contraindicated during pregnancy and not recommended while breastfeeding. Switch to bakuchiol or azelaic acid.
Contains stearic acid, isopropyl myristate, PEG-40 stearate and stearyl alcohol β all known to feed Malassezia yeast.
Tretinoin significantly increases UV sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable, even on cloudy days.
Do not combine same-night with AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, or vitamin C β risk of irritation and tretinoin degradation.
Available only via licensed physician or telehealth consult in most jurisdictions. Not sold over the counter.
Isopropyl myristate has a comedogenic rating of 5/5. Some acne-prone users may break out from the vehicle, not the active.
Expect 4β8 weeks of breakouts, redness, dryness or peeling as cell turnover accelerates. This is normal, not a reaction.
Keep away from eyes, nostrils, lips and corners of the mouth. Apply only to dry, intact skin.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Tretinoin 0.05% Proven
All-trans retinoic acid β the active form of vitamin A that binds directly to skin receptors without requiring enzymatic conversion (unlike retinol). It is the most clinically validated topical anti-aging and anti-acne molecule on the market.
- FDA Status: Approved for acne vulgaris (1971) and photoaging (1995)
- Mechanism: Normalizes follicular keratinization, increases cell turnover, and stimulates collagen I and III synthesis
- Clinical Data: 12β24 weeks of consistent use produces measurable reductions in fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and inflammatory acne lesions
- Strength Tier: 0.05% sits between starter (0.025%) and maximum (0.1%) β the most commonly prescribed concentration
𧴠Stearic Acid ~10β15% Proven
A saturated fatty acid that acts as the primary emollient and emulsifier in the cream base. It gives the formula body, stabilizes the oil-water emulsion, and leaves a soft, smooth feel on application.
- Function: Emollient, thickener, emulsifier
- Skin Feel: Imparts a creamy, cushioning texture without occlusive heaviness
- Caveat: A saturated fatty acid that can feed Malassezia yeast β not fungal-acne safe
π§ Isopropyl Myristate ~5β8% Proven
A clear, oil-like ester used as a fast-spreading emollient. It improves the slip of the formula and acts as a penetration enhancer, helping tretinoin reach deeper layers of the epidermis.
- Penetration Booster: Increases bioavailability of the active ingredient
- Texture: Lightweight, non-greasy slip without heaviness
- Comedogenic Rating: 5/5 β the most pore-clogging ingredient in the formula
π§ͺ PEG-40 Stearate (Polyoxyl 40 Stearate) ~2β5% Proven
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from stearic acid and polyethylene glycol. It keeps water and oil phases stably blended throughout shelf life.
- Function: Emulsifier, solubilizer, mild surfactant
- Stability: Maintains uniform texture and prevents phase separation
- Tolerance: Generally well-tolerated, but PEG compounds can be problematic on broken skin
πΎ Stearyl Alcohol ~3β5% Proven
A fatty alcohol (not the drying kind) that thickens the cream and softens skin. Despite the name, fatty alcohols are emollient and beneficial for the skin barrier.
- Function: Thickener, emollient, co-emulsifier
- Skin Effect: Reinforces the lipid barrier and softens dry patches
- Safety: Low irritancy, but a Malassezia food source
πΏ Xanthan Gum ~0.1β0.5% Proven
A naturally fermented polysaccharide that acts as a thickener and viscosity modifier. Approved by Ecocert and used at low concentrations to give the cream its body.
- Source: Natural fermentation from glucose and sucrose (food-grade E415)
- Use Level: Typically below 1%, often in the 0.1β0.5% range
- Skin Friendly: Non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin
π‘οΈ Sorbic Acid ~0.1β0.6% Proven
A mild, naturally derived preservative that protects the cream against microbial contamination. Also used in food preservation, considered one of the gentler preservation systems.
- Function: Preservative against yeast, mold, and some bacteria
- Tolerance: Generally well-tolerated, low allergenicity
- Effectiveness: Works best in slightly acidic formulations
π BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) <0.1% Proven
A synthetic antioxidant added to protect the formula β particularly the light-sensitive tretinoin molecule β from oxidation and degradation. Stabilizes shelf life.
- Function: Antioxidant preservative protecting the active
- Use Level: Typically 0.01β0.1%, very low concentration
- Controversy: Some debate over long-term safety, but generally regarded as safe at cosmetic levels
π§ Purified Water (Aqua) ~70% Proven
Deionized, purified water serves as the primary solvent and base of the hydrophilic cream emulsion. It provides hydration and dilutes the active to a usable concentration.
- Function: Solvent and primary vehicle
- Quality Control: Pharmaceutical-grade purification removes ions and contaminants
9 ingredients total
Tretinoin 0.05%, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate (PEG-40 Stearate), Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid, Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), Purified Water.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Tretinoin is a PM-only product. Apply on completely dry skin (waiting 20 minutes after washing reduces irritation). Begin every third night for 2 weeks, then every other night, then nightly as tolerated. Always pair with daily SPF 30+.
π How to Use
Cleanse Gently
Wash with a mild, non-medicated cleanser. Avoid scrubs, exfoliating brushes, or harsh foaming washes that compromise the barrier.
Wait Until Skin Is Bone-Dry
Allow 20β30 minutes after cleansing. Damp skin dramatically increases tretinoin absorption β and irritation. Patience here saves redness later.
Use a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze no more than half an inch onto your fingertip. More product does not mean faster results β it only means more irritation.
Dot & Spread Thinly
Place small dots on forehead, both cheeks, and chin. Spread in upward motions. Avoid corners of the nose, mouth, eyes, and any open or broken skin.
Buffer With Moisturizer
Wait 5β10 minutes, then apply a fragrance-free moisturizer. Sensitive skin can use the "sandwich method": moisturizer β tretinoin β moisturizer.
Sunscreen Every Morning
Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory. Tretinoin makes skin substantially more sun-sensitive and degrades when exposed to UV light.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have moderate inflammatory or comedonal acne
- You want to address fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and uneven tone
- Lower-strength retinols (0.5β1%) have stopped delivering results
- You can commit to 12+ weeks of consistent nightly use
- You wear daily SPF 30+ without exception
- You prefer a fragrance-free, minimalist formula
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding
- You have rosacea, eczema, or compromised skin barrier
- You can't or won't wear daily sunscreen
- You are completely new to retinoids (start with 0.025%)
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You are highly comedogenic-sensitive (vehicle includes IPM)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Normalizes sebum production over time and reduces follicular plugging β one of the best long-term acne treatments available.
Causes dryness and flaking initially. Use the buffer method with moisturizer and start with infrequent application (2x/week).
Balances oily T-zone while smoothing texture across the entire face. The cream base is forgiving for drier cheeks.
High irritation potential. Sensitive skin should start with 0.025% tretinoin or adapalene, then graduate to 0.05% if tolerated.
Highly effective long-term, but expect a 4β8 week purge phase. Vehicle contains comedogenic IPM β patch test recommended.
The most evidence-backed anti-aging molecule. Stimulates collagen, reduces fine lines, fades age spots, and refines texture.
π Results Timeline
Adjustment / Retinization Begins
Mild redness, tightness, and flaking are normal as skin acclimates. Some users describe a sandpaper sensation. Slow down frequency if irritation is severe.
~75% experience initial irritationPossible Purge Phase
Acne-prone skin may break out as deeper congestion is pushed to the surface. New pimples should appear in usual breakout zones β surfacing faster than they normally would.
~40β50% report purgingSkin Begins to Clear
Active breakouts decrease, skin tone evens out, and texture becomes notably smoother. Pores look smaller, makeup applies more evenly.
~70% see clearer skinHyperpigmentation Fades
Post-acne marks, sun spots, and uneven tone visibly lighten. Fine lines around eyes and mouth begin to soften. Skin looks brighter and more refined.
~80% notice tone improvementCollagen Boost & Long-Term Anti-Aging
Measurable increase in dermal collagen, reduced wrinkle depth, and firmer skin texture. Long-term users report ongoing benefits with no diminishing returns.
~90% of consistent users satisfiedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Most clinically proven anti-aging and anti-acne molecule available
- Visibly fades hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and sun damage
- Cream base is gentler than gel formulas of the same strength
- Fragrance-free, minimalist 9-ingredient formula
- 0.05% is the sweet spot β effective without maximum irritation
- Long-term users report decades of sustained skin benefits
- From a 30+ year medical-grade brand with physician oversight
β Criticized
- Requires a prescription β not available over the counter
- Expensive vs. generic tretinoin or pharmacy-compounded versions
- Significant adjustment phase with peeling, redness, and dryness
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe
- Vehicle includes isopropyl myristate (highly comedogenic)
- Not fungal-acne safe (multiple fatty acids and esters)
- Tube is small (20g) for the price relative to OTC retinols
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Identical active ingredient at the same concentration. Sourced through telehealth services like Curology, Hers, or Apostrophe. Vehicle composition varies by pharmacy but is functionally similar.
A third-generation retinoid available OTC without prescription. Comparable acne efficacy to 0.05% tretinoin gel, gentler tolerability, but slightly less proven for anti-aging.
Hydroxypinacolone retinoate β a next-gen retinoid ester that binds to retinoic acid receptors directly. Far gentler than tretinoin but slower to deliver visible results.
An encapsulated retinol with ceramides and niacinamide. Roughly 20x weaker than tretinoin, but excellent for beginners or sensitive skin building tolerance.
π Comparison with Competitors
Obagi Tretinoin 0.05% Cream (This Product)
~$76.00Differin Adapalene 0.1% Gel
$13.00Retin-A (Branded Tretinoin) 0.05%
~$200.00Tazorac (Tazarotene) 0.05% Cream
~$300.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Tretinoin is light- and air-sensitive β discard if discoloration or odor changes occur.
Store at room temperature 20β25Β°C (68β77Β°F), away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep tube tightly closed.
20g aluminum tube with screw cap. Opaque packaging protects the active from photodegradation.
Yes β well under 100ml. Pack in your toiletry bag and protect from heat and direct sunlight during travel.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. Topical tretinoin is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of retinoid-induced birth defects (linked to oral isotretinoin). It is also not recommended during breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or nursing, discontinue use and switch to pregnancy-safe alternatives such as bakuchiol, azelaic acid 10β20%, or glycolic acid.
No. The formula contains stearic acid, isopropyl myristate, PEG-40 stearate, and stearyl alcohol β all known triggers for Malassezia yeast overgrowth. If you suspect fungal acne (small uniform itchy bumps on forehead, chest, or back), this product may worsen the condition. Consider antifungal treatments like ketoconazole or zinc pyrithione first.
Not in the same routine. Avoid combining tretinoin same-night with AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHAs (salicylic), benzoyl peroxide, or pure ascorbic acid vitamin C β this dramatically increases irritation and can degrade the active. Best practice: use vitamin C in the AM, tretinoin alone in the PM, and reserve exfoliating acids for nights you skip tretinoin. Never layer with another retinoid.
It is best suited to oily, combination, and mature skin types dealing with acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or photoaging. The cream base makes it more tolerable than gel formulas for normal-to-dry skin. Sensitive skin types should start with a lower 0.025% strength first, and rosacea or eczema-prone skin should consult a dermatologist before use.
Visible improvements appear in stages. Texture and tone refinement typically begin around weeks 6β8. Acne clearing follows after the initial purge phase, usually by weeks 8β12. Hyperpigmentation fading and fine line softening become noticeable by months 3β6. Maximum collagen-boosting and anti-aging benefits accumulate over 12+ months of consistent nightly use.
Tretinoin is a PM-only step. After cleansing, wait 20 minutes for skin to fully dry, then apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin. Wait another 5β10 minutes before applying moisturizer. In the morning, follow with gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30+. Never use tretinoin in the morning β it degrades in sunlight.
The active ingredient tretinoin is non-comedogenic and actually unclogs pores. However, the cream vehicle contains isopropyl myristate, which carries a comedogenic rating of 5/5. For most users this is not an issue because tretinoin's pore-clearing effect outweighs the vehicle. But very acne-prone or ester-sensitive users may break out from the base β in which case the gel formulation may suit better. Patch test recommended.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Tretinoin is sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen, so always keep the cap tightly closed and store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. If the cream changes color (yellowing or browning), develops an off odor, or separates, discard it. A 20g tube typically lasts 3β4 months with nightly pea-sized use, so you should finish well within shelf life.
Verdict: Obagi Tretinoin 0.05% Cream delivers the gold-standard retinoid in a clean, fragrance-free, minimalist 9-ingredient cream base β making it one of the most effective anti-acne and anti-aging treatments available. The 0.05% strength is the most clinically prescribed concentration, balancing efficacy with tolerability. Drawbacks include the steep brand premium versus generic compounded tretinoin, the highly comedogenic isopropyl myristate in the vehicle, and the universal retinoid downsides (adjustment phase, photosensitivity, pregnancy contraindication). Best for committed users with oily, combination, or mature skin who can pair it with daily SPF and don't mind a 12-week ramp-up. Beginners or sensitive skin types should start with adapalene or 0.025% tretinoin first.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
|
|