Tretinoin Cream 0.1%
Tretinoin Cream 0.1%
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength retinoid cream containing 0.1% tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) — the highest available concentration. This gold-standard treatment accelerates skin cell turnover, unclogs pores, reduces acne lesions, fades hyperpigmentation, and stimulates collagen production for visibly smoother, clearer, younger-looking skin.
Pure Retinoic Acid (No Conversion Needed)
Unlike retinol or retinal, tretinoin IS retinoic acid — it works immediately on skin cells without requiring any metabolic conversion steps.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPure Retinoic Acid (No Conversion Needed)
Unlike retinol or retinal, tretinoin IS retinoic acid — it works immediately on skin cells without requiring any metabolic conversion steps.
Highest Available Concentration
At 0.1%, this is the maximum prescription strength of tretinoin cream, delivering the most potent cell-turnover and collagen-stimulating effects.
Clinically Proven Collagen Booster
Decades of clinical research confirm tretinoin increases procollagen production, improving skin firmness, elasticity, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Multi-Target Skin Corrector
Treats acne, fades dark spots, shrinks enlarged pores, smooths texture irregularities, and reduces scarring — all from a single product.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETretinoin is a retinoid classified as Category X. It should not be used during pregnancy due to potential risk of birth defects. Discontinue use if planning to become pregnant.
It is not known whether topical tretinoin is excreted in breast milk. Consult your physician before using while nursing.
Contains Isopropyl Myristate, a fatty acid ester that can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. The tretinoin gel formulation is a better option for fungal acne sufferers.
Isopropyl Myristate in the cream base has a moderate comedogenic potential. Those with clog-prone skin may prefer the tretinoin gel formulation instead.
Tretinoin significantly increases photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is mandatory while using this product. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
A "purging" period of 4–8 weeks is normal as tretinoin pushes deep, unseen comedones to the surface. Skin may appear worse before it improves.
Free from fragrances, parabens, harsh alcohols, common allergens, oils, silicones, and sulfates — suitable for reactive skin types.
Avoid using with products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, resorcinol, or other strong drying agents simultaneously, as these can increase irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTretinoin (All-Trans Retinoic Acid) 0.1%Proven
The gold standard retinoid and the only FDA-approved topical ingredient for treating both acne and photoaging. Tretinoin is the active form of Vitamin A — it requires zero conversion steps to work directly on skin cell receptors, making it significantly more potent than retinol or retinal.
- Mechanism: Decreases cohesiveness of follicular epithelial cells, reducing microcomedo formation and promoting extrusion of existing comedones.
- Anti-Aging: Stimulates procollagen I and III synthesis, increasing dermal thickness and reducing fine lines within 12–24 weeks of consistent use.
- Acne: FDA-approved for acne vulgaris. Reduces inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions by normalizing keratinization and sebum production.
- Pigmentation: Accelerates epidermal turnover, dispersing melanin and fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun spots.
Isopropyl MyristateVehicle
An emollient and penetration enhancer that helps deliver tretinoin into the skin. Also functions as a thickening agent and texture enhancer in the cream base. Created from isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid.
- Function: Enhances skin penetration of active ingredients while providing emollience and moisturization.
- Concern: Historically rated as moderately comedogenic (3/5 on the Fulton scale), though more recent assessments suggest the comedogenic potential is lower than originally reported at typical cosmetic concentrations.
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)Antioxidant
A synthetic antioxidant and preservative that protects the formulation from oxidative degradation. Typically used at 0.01–0.1% in cosmetics. Approved by the FDA and EU for cosmetic use.
- Function: Prevents oxidation of tretinoin and other ingredients, maintaining formula stability and potency.
- Safety: CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) concluded it is safe at typical cosmetic concentrations and does not penetrate skin far enough to enter the bloodstream.
Stearic AcidEmollient
A naturally occurring fatty acid that serves as an emollient, emulsifier, and texture enhancer. Helps soften the skin and strengthens the protective barrier by preventing transepidermal water loss.
- Function: Creates the smooth, spreadable cream texture while aiding in moisture retention.
- Compatibility: Well-tolerated by most skin types and helps water and oil ingredients stay blended.
9 ingredients
Tretinoin 0.1%, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, PEG-8 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid, Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), Purified Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply at night only. Always follow with sunscreen the next morning. For "sandwich method," apply moisturizer before and after tretinoin to buffer irritation.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash face with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser. Pat dry completely and wait 20–30 minutes until skin is fully dry. Applying to damp skin increases irritation.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze about a half-inch strip onto your fingertip. Dab small dots on forehead, chin, and both cheeks, then spread evenly over the entire affected area in a thin layer. The cream should become invisible — if you can still see it, you are using too much.
Avoid Sensitive Areas
Keep away from eyes, nostrils, mouth corners, and mucous membranes. Do not apply to broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin. Wash hands after application.
Moisturize After
Wait 10 minutes, then follow with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer to reduce dryness and peeling. For sensitive skin, try the "sandwich method" — moisturizer, then tretinoin, then moisturizer again.
Build Up Gradually
Start with every 3rd night for the first 2 weeks. Increase to every other night for weeks 3–4. Then move to nightly if tolerated. Reduce frequency if excessive peeling or redness occurs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have moderate to severe acne that hasn't responded to lower-strength retinoids
- You've already built tolerance with 0.025% or 0.05% tretinoin and want to step up
- You want the most potent prescription retinoid for anti-aging and photoaging repair
- You have persistent dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or acne scarring
- You want a fragrance-free, paraben-free, minimal-ingredient prescription formula
- You want the most clinically researched anti-aging ingredient available topically
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- You have never used a retinoid before (start with 0.025% instead)
- You have very sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — the cream base may worsen it
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You want an over-the-counter option (consider adapalene 0.1% or retinol)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively regulates sebum production and unclogs pores. However, the cream base may feel heavy — oily skin types may prefer the gel formulation instead.
The cream vehicle provides more moisture than gel formulations. Expect increased dryness initially — pair with a rich barrier-repair moisturizer and use the sandwich method.
The cream formulation works well across different face zones. Apply a thinner layer on oily areas and a slightly thicker layer on drier patches.
The 0.1% concentration is too strong for most sensitive skin types. High risk of severe irritation, redness, and peeling. Start with 0.025% instead and consult a dermatologist.
Highly effective for moderate to severe acne once tolerance is built. Be aware the cream base contains Isopropyl Myristate which is moderately comedogenic — the gel formulation is preferred for very clog-prone skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 6–12+Adjustment Phase
Skin begins to feel tight, dry, and may sting upon application. Mild redness and flaking is normal. This is the retinization process as skin adjusts to retinoic acid.
~90% experience dryness/peelingPurging Period
Existing deep comedones are pushed to the surface, causing an apparent worsening of acne. New breakouts may appear in areas where you typically break out. This is temporary and expected.
~60% experience purgingVisible Improvement Begins
Purging subsides and new breakouts decrease significantly. Skin texture begins to smooth out. Early improvements in skin tone and reduced pore visibility become noticeable.
~70% see acne improvementSignificant Results
Marked reduction in acne lesions, dark spots fading noticeably, fine lines softening, and overall skin radiance improving. Skin has adapted and irritation is minimal.
~85% see significant clearingTransformative Results
Maximum anti-aging and collagen-building benefits become apparent. Wrinkles visibly reduced, hyperpigmentation largely faded, pores refined, and overall skin quality dramatically improved.
~90% report significant anti-aging benefitsRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- The gold standard retinoid — decades of clinical research proving its effectiveness
- Direct retinoic acid: no conversion needed, works immediately on skin cells
- Treats acne, wrinkles, dark spots, texture, and pores simultaneously
- Ultra-minimal 9-ingredient formula — fewer chances for reactions
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, sulfate-free
- Generic Retin-A equivalent (AB-rated) at a fraction of the brand-name cost
- Long-term users (10–30+ years) report dramatically younger-looking skin
- Covered by most insurance plans with a prescription
Criticized
- Harsh initial adjustment period with significant peeling, redness, and purging
- Cream base contains Isopropyl Myristate — moderately comedogenic
- Not fungal acne safe due to the cream vehicle ingredients
- Requires a prescription — not available over the counter
- Absolutely not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Mandatory daily sunscreen use adds to the routine
- The 0.1% strength is too intense for retinoid beginners
- Can cost $50–80+ without insurance coverage
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The only OTC retinoid in the US. Less irritating than tretinoin but also less potent for anti-aging. Excellent for acne treatment and better tolerated by beginners. Fungal acne safe in gel form.
OTC retinol that requires conversion to retinoic acid — significantly less potent than tretinoin. Good entry point for retinoid beginners. No prescription required. Much less irritating but slower results.
Adapalene-based treatment in an elegant cosmetic vehicle. OTC in many countries. Less irritating than tretinoin, fungal acne safe, and stable enough to combine with benzoyl peroxide. Less effective for deep wrinkles.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Tretinoin degrades with exposure to air and light — use promptly once opened.
Store below 80°F (27°C) in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Some users store in the refrigerator for added stability.
Aluminum tube with screw cap. Opaque packaging protects tretinoin from light degradation.
Yes — 20g and 45g tubes are both under 100ml/3.4oz TSA carry-on limit. Keep in a cool toiletry bag away from heat.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Tretinoin is classified as Pregnancy Category X, meaning it should absolutely not be used during pregnancy due to potential risk of birth defects (teratogenicity). Animal studies have shown fetal malformations at high doses. There are no adequate studies in pregnant women. It is also not known if topical tretinoin passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should consult their physician before use. Discontinue tretinoin at least one month before trying to conceive.
No. The cream formulation contains Isopropyl Myristate, a fatty acid ester that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). If you have fungal acne, ask your dermatologist about tretinoin gel formulations instead, which do not contain these triggering ingredients. Alternatively, adapalene gel (Differin) is a retinoid that is fungal acne safe.
Use caution when combining with other active ingredients. Do not use other retinoids (retinol, retinal) simultaneously — this causes excessive irritation with no added benefit. Vitamin C can be used in the morning while tretinoin is used at night, but avoid applying them at the same time. AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) should be used on alternate nights or reduced in frequency, as combining them with tretinoin can cause severe irritation, peeling, and barrier damage. Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize and deactivate tretinoin — apply them at different times if both are prescribed.
Tretinoin Cream 0.1% is best suited for combination and normal skin types that have already built tolerance to lower-strength tretinoin (0.025% or 0.05%). The cream vehicle works well for normal to dry skin as it provides more moisture than gel formulations. However, this highest concentration is not recommended for sensitive or eczema-prone skin. For oily and acne-prone skin, the gel formulation may be a better choice as the cream base contains potentially comedogenic ingredients.
Results typically follow this timeline: Weeks 1–2 bring dryness and peeling as skin adjusts. Weeks 2–6 often involve a purging phase where acne temporarily worsens. Visible acne improvement usually begins around weeks 6–12. Significant anti-aging benefits (reduced wrinkles, improved tone, collagen production) become noticeable at 3–6 months and continue to improve with long-term use over 12+ months. Consistency and patience are essential — tretinoin works deep in the skin and the process cannot be rushed.
Tretinoin is applied at night only, after cleansing. The recommended routine is: (1) Gentle cleanser, (2) Wait 20–30 minutes for skin to fully dry, (3) Apply a pea-sized amount of tretinoin over the entire face, (4) Wait 10 minutes, (5) Apply moisturizer. For the "sandwich method" to reduce irritation: apply moisturizer first, wait until dry, apply tretinoin, wait, then apply moisturizer again. In the morning, follow up with sunscreen (SPF 30+).
The cream formulation has a moderate comedogenic rating (3/5) primarily due to the Isopropyl Myristate in the vehicle. While tretinoin itself is anti-comedogenic (it unclogs pores), the cream base can potentially clog pores in very acne-prone individuals. The original Retin-A cream was noted as comedogenic in early studies. If you are highly prone to clogged pores, ask your dermatologist for the tretinoin gel formulation instead, which does not contain Isopropyl Myristate.
Tretinoin cream should be used within 6 months after opening for optimal potency. Tretinoin degrades when exposed to air, light, and heat. Store below 80°F (27°C) in a cool, dark place. Check the expiration date printed on the tube and do not use expired product, as degraded tretinoin may become less effective or cause unexpected skin reactions. Discard if the cream changes color, texture, or smell.
Verdict: Tretinoin Cream 0.1% by Padagis is the most potent topical retinoid cream available by prescription and remains the undisputed gold standard for treating acne and reversing signs of photoaging. Backed by over 50 years of clinical research, no other topical ingredient comes close to its proven ability to boost collagen, normalize cell turnover, and transform skin quality over time. The ultra-minimal 9-ingredient formula is free from fragrances, parabens, and unnecessary additives. However, this is not a beginner-friendly product — the 0.1% concentration demands that users have already built tolerance with lower strengths. The cream base containing Isopropyl Myristate makes it unsuitable for fungal acne sufferers and moderately comedogenic for clog-prone skin. It is absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy. For experienced retinoid users seeking the strongest prescription treatment, this generic Retin-A equivalent delivers proven results at a fraction of the brand-name price.
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-8 Stearate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Foam Boosting, Masking, Opacifying, Refatting, Viscosity Controlling
|
|