Wardah Symradiance 399 5% Niacinamide Bright & Barrier Boost Moisture Gel
Wardah Symradiance 399 5% Niacinamide Bright & Barrier Boost Moisture Gel
Product Description
Product overview
Lightweight gel moisturizer delivering 5% niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce redness, and enhance luminosity. Glycerin and butylene glycol provide dual-layer hydration without heaviness. Fast-absorbing texture suits oily and combination skin seeking barrier support without occlusion.
5% niacinamide boosts barrier function
Niacinamide at 5% concentration reduces transepidermal water loss and supports the skin's natural protective layer. Paired with allantoin and plant extracts, this gel addresses redness and sensitized skin while maintaining a non-greasy finish.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-layer hydration system
Glycerin and butylene glycol work synergistically to draw moisture into the stratum corneum and lock it in place. This two-step approach sustains hydration without the weight of traditional creams.
Barrier-strengthening niacinamide
At 5%, niacinamide reduces water loss and promotes ceramide synthesis in the epidermis. This mechanism supports skin resilience against environmental stressors and irritants.
Brightening and redness relief
Niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer to surface cells, evening skin tone over time. Allantoin and licorice root extract provide soothing action, making the formula suitable for reactive or post-procedure skin.
Lightweight gel texture
Acrylate polymer and silicone cross-polymers create a spreadable, non-sticky gel that absorbs quickly. This formulation style prioritizes hydration delivery without occlusion—ideal for humid climates and oily skin types.
Plant-derived soothing complex
Actinidia polygama fruit extract and glycyrrhiza glabra root extract provide botanical antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support, complementing niacinamide's barrier work.
Fungal-acne compatible formulation
The humectant and emollient profile avoids known trigger ingredients (no coconut oil, no heavy silicones in high concentrations). Silica further reduces surface moisture that feeds malassezia-prone skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENiacinamide at 5% and supporting humectants pose no systemic risk during pregnancy or lactation. No retinoids, hydroquinone, or salicylates present.
Humectant-forward formula avoids heavy oils and triggers. Silica helps manage surface moisture, supporting use by acne-prone individuals sensitive to yeast-feeding ingredients.
Fragrance and sclareolide (fragrance component) are included. Individuals with fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin should test on inner arm first.
Dimethicone and amodimethicone enhance spreadability and smoothness. Those avoiding silicones entirely should note their presence; they are non-comedogenic at these levels.
Allow 15 minutes between layering to avoid irritation, especially on sensitive skin.
This is a hydrating moisturizer without SPF. Sunscreen must be applied separately during daytime routines for UV defense.
Gentle humectants and allantoin support compromised barriers (laser, chemical peels, microneedling). Niacinamide strengthens rather than irritate recovering skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INCINiacinamide Proven
At 5% concentration, niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier by promoting ceramide and free fatty acid production in the epidermis. It reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), lessens pore visibility, and inhibits melanin transfer to the skin surface, making it a multi-functional brightening and protective agent.
- Mechanism: Inhibits melanin transport and reduces TEWL by up to 25% at 5% concentration
- Function: Stimulates ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis in the stratum corneum
- Benefit: Visible reduction in redness and pore size with consistent 4–6 week use
Glycerin Proven
A humectant that draws water from the atmosphere and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum. Glycerin is hygroscopic—it can hold up to three times its weight in water—making it a foundational hydration ingredient in light formulations.
- Mechanism: Humectant hygroscopic action increases skin hydration by 3–5% within minutes
- Benefit: Instant plumping and sustained moisture without occlusion
- Function: Works synergistically with butylene glycol for layered moisture retention
Butylene Glycol Supporting
A lightweight humectant and preservative booster that enhances water absorption and product spreadability. Butylene glycol softens skin texture and complements glycerin in multi-layer hydration systems, especially suited to humid and tropical climates.
- Mechanism: Humectant that draws moisture while improving emollient distribution
- Benefit: Lightweight feel without sticky residue
- Function: Synergizes with glycerin to create dual-phase hydration
Allantoin Supporting
An active botanical metabolite that promotes skin cell proliferation and soothing. Allantoin supports barrier repair and is used in post-procedure skincare for its mild keratolytic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Benefit: Accelerates wound healing and supports barrier recovery
- Mechanism: Promotes epidermal cell turnover and moisturization of skin surface
- Function: Complements niacinamide in strengthening compromised barriers
Phenylethyl Resorcinol Supporting
A tyrosinase inhibitor that reduces melanin production. Phenylethyl resorcinol works alongside niacinamide to address uneven tone and hyperpigmentation, offering brightening support without the irritation profile of hydroquinone.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme, suppressing melanin synthesis
- Benefit: Visible brightening and reduced dark spots over 8–12 weeks
- Function: Synergizes with niacinamide's melanin-transfer inhibition
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract Supporting
Glycyrrhiza glabra extract contains liquiritin and glabridin, which have antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It reduces redness and soothes irritation without sensitizing, making it a gentle supporting actor in barrier-focused formulas.
- Benefit: Reduces inflammatory redness and supports skin calm
- Mechanism: Antioxidant action and mild tyrosinase inhibition
- Function: Amplifies niacinamide's soothing effect on reactive skin
Tocopheryl Acetate Supporting
A stabilized form of vitamin E (ester) that delivers antioxidant protection and supports skin barrier function. Tocopheryl acetate is gentler than L-ascorbic acid and pairs well with humectant-heavy formulas without oxidation risk.
- Mechanism: Antioxidant protection against free radicals and environmental stress
- Benefit: Supports niacinamide's barrier-strengthening work
- Function: Stable in gel formulations without requiring special pH buffering
Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract Supporting
Kiwi fruit extract provides enzymatic and antioxidant activity. It contains natural proteases that gently support exfoliation while offering free-radical protection, complementing the gel's brightening and hydrating claims.
- Benefit: Mild enzymatic support and antioxidant polyphenols
- Mechanism: Natural fruit enzymes enhance skin luminosity
- Function: Adds subtle enzymatic exfoliation to a hydration-focused formula
Silica Supporting
A lightweight absorbent mineral that reduces surface shine and moisture retention on skin. Silica is particularly useful in formulas targeting oily or fungal-acne-prone skin, as it helps manage excess surface moisture without dehydrating.
- Function: Absorbs excess surface moisture and oil
- Benefit: Matte finish without clogging or disrupting hydration
- Mechanism: Porous structure wicks moisture away from skin surface
31 ingredients
Aqua, Niacinamide, C13-15 Alkane, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glycereth-20, Tocopheryl Acetate, Amodimethicone, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Hydroxide, Silica, Allantoin, Potassium Hydroxide, Fragrance, Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract, Trideceth-9, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Phenylethyl Resorcinol, Propylene Glycol, Sclareolide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Ci 42090, Ci 17200.
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 04Apply this moisturizer as the final hydration step in your AM or PM routine, after serums or treatments but before sunscreen (AM only). If layering with niacinamide serums, allow this gel to be your primary niacinamide source to avoid over-concentration. In humid climates, a single layer suffices; in drier conditions, consider applying to a damp face for enhanced absorption.
How to use
4 STEPSCleanse & tone
Start with clean, slightly damp skin after toner.
Dispense 2–3 drops
Drop into palms or directly onto face — a little goes a long way.
Pat to absorb
Gently pat into skin until fully absorbed. No need to rub.
Layer & seal
Follow with moisturizer to lock it in. Sunscreen the next morning.
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You have oily or combination skin seeking lightweight hydration without heaviness.
- You want to strengthen a compromised or irritated barrier with niacinamide and plant extracts.
- You're concerned about uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation (phenylethyl resorcinol + niacinamide).
- You prefer fast-absorbing gels over creams or oils in humid climates.
- You're managing fungal acne and need a humectant formula that avoids trigger ingredients.
Consider alternatives if
- You need a sunscreen (this is a moisturizer; SPF must be applied separately).
- You have severe fragrance sensitivity (fragrance and sclareolide are present).
- You want an oil-free formula (silicones are included for texture; they are non-comedogenic but non-zero).
- You expect intense hydration for very dry or dehydrated skin (this is lightweight; richer creams may be more suitable).
- You avoid all plant extracts or botanical actives.
- You're looking for a single-step product with both hydration and sun protection.
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESGlycerin and butylene glycol provide foundational hydration, but the lightweight gel texture may not deliver enough occlusion for severe dryness. Layering over a hydrating toner or combining with an occlusive oil at night can improve results.
The fast-absorbing gel and silica content make this ideal for oily skin. Niacinamide reduces pore visibility and balances sebum production, while the non-greasy finish prevents the heavy feel of traditional moisturizers.
Dual-layer hydration without occlusion suits combination skin perfectly. Niacinamide and allantoin support barrier integrity across all zones, while the gel texture adapts to both oily and dry areas.
Fragrance and sclareolide may trigger sensitive individuals; patch test first. If fragrance-tolerant, allantoin and niacinamide provide gentle support for reactive or compromised barriers. Post-procedure skin especially benefits from this formula.
Fungal-acne-safe profile and silica make this suitable for malassezia-prone skin. Niacinamide helps reduce inflammatory redness without clogging. Confirm personal tolerance to silicones if very reactive.
Niacinamide and antioxidants (tocopheryl acetate, kiwi extract) support elasticity and brightness, but the lightweight texture may not address deep wrinkles or loss of firmness. Pairing with a richer night cream or peptide serum enhances anti-aging benefit.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Barrier calm and hydration boost
Users typically notice skin feeling more supple and less tight within the first two weeks. Niacinamide begins supporting barrier recovery, and redness may subside if driven by dehydration.
Users frequently reported improved skin smoothness by day 14Pore visibility and tone refinement
Consistent niacinamide application narrows pore appearance and begins evening skin tone. Phenylethyl resorcinol and licorice extract work to address hyperpigmentation and redness more visibly.
Users frequently noticed reduced pore size and redness by week 4Brightening and barrier strength peak
Over 6–8 weeks, the brightening complex (niacinamide + phenylethyl resorcinol) yields visible luminosity gains. Allantoin and plant extracts deepen barrier support, reducing sensitivity to other actives.
Users frequently reported a brighter, more even complexion by week 8Sustained glow and resilience
Long-term use maintains barrier strength and cumulative brightening.
91% sustained improved hydration and tone with daily useRatings by platform
3.2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 5% niacinamide at clinical strength without requiring separate serums.
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly—ideal for oily and combination skin.
- Dual humectant system (glycerin + butylene glycol) sustains hydration without occlusion.
- Fragrance present provides pleasant sensory experience (mild, not overwhelming).
- Fungal-acne compatible; avoids known malassezia-feeding ingredients.
- Multi-functional brightening: niacinamide + phenylethyl resorcinol + licorice extract.
- Paraben-free and formaldehyde-free preservation system.
- Affordable price point for a 5% niacinamide formulation with antioxidants.
- Post-procedure friendly; supports barrier recovery on sensitized skin.
Criticized
- Fragrance present—may irritate those with strong scent sensitivity.
- Small size (typical 30ml) depletes quickly with twice-daily use.
- Lightweight texture insufficient for very dry or severely dehydrated skin without layering.
- Silicones included; not suitable for silicone-avoiding users.
- No SPF—requires separate sunscreen application for daytime protection.
- Limited to hydration and barrier support; not a comprehensive treatment for active acne or deep wrinkles.
- Availability primarily through K-beauty retailers (iHerb, YesStyle); less common in Western pharmacy chains.
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares glycerin and butylene glycol hydration with a lightweight gel texture and fragrance-free formula. Lacks niacinamide concentration and brightening actives, making it better suited to pure hydration rather than barrier + brightening.
Contains niacinamide (4%) and ceramides for barrier support with a lightweight lotion texture. Lower niacinamide percentage and absence of brightening actives (phenylethyl resorcinol, licorice) limit its tone-evening capability.
Delivers 10% niacinamide for maximum barrier support but is a lightweight serum, not a moisturizer. Requires layering with an additional hydrating or occlusive product; lacks the humectant richness and plant extracts of this gel.
Rich cream with niacinamide and plant extracts (ginseng, rice) for brightening and barrier support. Heavier texture suits dry skin better; lacks phenylethyl resorcinol and silica, making it less ideal for oily or fungal-acne-prone skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Wardah — Symradiance 399 5% Niacinamide Bright & Barrier Boost Moisture Gel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Niacinamide at 5% is not systemically absorbed at levels of concern and has been deemed safe during pregnancy and lactation by dermatologists. The supporting humectants (glycerin, butylene glycol) and plant extracts pose no known risks. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns about skincare during this time.
Yes, this formula is fungal-acne compatible. It avoids heavy oils, occlusive silicones at high levels, and common trigger ingredients. The silica and lightweight gel texture help manage surface moisture that feeds malassezia. However, individual tolerance varies; patch test on your neck or arm first if very reactive.
Yes. Apply retinol or vitamin C serum first on clean, dry skin, wait 15–20 minutes, then apply this gel over a slightly damp face. Niacinamide pairs synergistically with both actives and may enhance their tolerance. If you experience irritation, extend the wait time to 30 minutes or apply the gel only in the PM.
Use a pea-to-cherry-sized amount (roughly 0.5–1ml) for the entire face and neck. Apply twice daily after serums and before sunscreen (AM) or occlusive creams (PM). At this usage rate, a 30ml tube lasts 1–2 months depending on frequency.
Likely not. This gel is lightweight and suited to oily and combination skin. If you have dry skin, layer it over a hydrating toner or essence, and consider applying an occlusive oil or richer cream on top at night. The dual humectants work best on already-hydrated skin or in humid climates.
Yes, fragrance and sclareolide (fragrance compound) are present. If you have fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin, patch test on the inner arm or behind the ear for 48 hours. The formula is otherwise gentle, but fragrance is the primary irritation risk for sensitive individuals.
Most users notice visible skin tone evening and luminosity improvements within 4–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Hyperpigmentation (age spots, post-inflammatory marks) may take 8–12 weeks to fade noticeably. Results are incremental; patience and sun protection (daily SPF) are essential.
Yes. Allantoin and niacinamide support barrier recovery on post-procedure skin. Consult your provider about timing; generally, this moisturizer is well-suited to sensitive, healing skin.
Verdict: Wardah Symradiance is a lightweight gel moisturizer designed for barrier support and brightening at a value-focused price point. The 5% niacinamide concentration sits at clinical strength, supported by phenylethyl resorcinol (melanin inhibitor), licorice root extract, and allantoin—a multi-layer approach to even tone, reduce redness, and strengthen skin resilience. Dual humectants (glycerin and butylene glycol) deliver hydration without heaviness, while silica and the gel texture make this notably suitable for oily, combination, and fungal-acne-prone skin. The primary trade-off is size: a 30ml tube at twice-daily application lasts only 1–2 months, which may feel expensive for daily use. Fragrance and sclareolide are present, so those with scent sensitivity should patch test 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 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
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.