Based on its listed ingredients, 3-Step Detan Trio can feed fungal acne; contains fragrance/allergens; contains a drying alcohol — details in the flags below.
Below is every ingredient in 3-Step Detan Trio explained, its standout actives, and the side effects reported in research for those actives — analysed for Indian skin.
Flags derived from the ingredient list using dermatology reference data (fungal-acne substrate, comedogenicity, EU allergens). General guidance, not a diagnosis.
Answers are derived from the printed ingredient list and dermatology reference data — general guidance, not a diagnosis or a therapeutic claim.
Benzophenone-4 (sulisobenzone) is a water-soluble organic UV filter that absorbs UVB and short UVA radiation, helping protect skin and formulations from sun-induced damage. It is also used to prevent UV degradation of product ingredients and color.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%.
Date Palm Extract (Phoenix dactylifera) is a botanical ingredient rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins, and sugars that provides antioxidant and humectant skin-conditioning benefits. It is used in cosmetic formulations to support hydration and help mitigate signs of environmental and oxidative skin aging.
Glyceryl glucoside is a naturally occurring sugar-glycerol compound used in skincare as a humectant that attracts and binds water to the skin. It is also studied for its ability to stimulate aquaporin water-channel expression, supporting skin hydration and barrier function.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that is converted to active ascorbic acid in the skin. It provides antioxidant protection, supports collagen synthesis, and is also studied for its brightening and anti-acne (antibacterial) effects.
Menthol is a naturally occurring or synthetic compound derived from mint oils that produces a cooling sensation by activating TRPM8 receptors on the skin. It is used in topical products for its soothing, mild analgesic, and antipruritic effects.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation or dryness | Uncommon | More likely at higher concentrations or with prolonged contact, though milder than sulfates. |
Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can cause stinging if formulations contact the eyes. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization reported infrequently in patch-test literature. |
Mucosal irritation in oral products | Rare | Occasionally noted with toothpaste use in sensitive individuals. |
Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional transient redness or stinging, typically in sensitive skin. |
Contact allergy/sensitization | Very rare | Allergic contact dermatitis is uncommon for acrylate polymers, though residual monomers can theoretically sensitize. |
Skin or eye irritation | Uncommon | Mild stinging or irritation, more likely in concentrated or rinse-off products and around the eyes. |
Cross-reactivity with related surfactants | Rare | Patch-test reactions may overlap with chemically related amphoteric or amine-containing surfactants. |
Dryness or transient redness | Rare | More likely in compromised or very sensitive skin with frequent use. |
Mild transient stinging or irritation | Uncommon | More likely at high concentrations or on compromised/broken skin. |
Tacky or sticky skin feel | Common | A cosmetic sensation rather than an adverse reaction, more noticeable at higher concentrations. |
Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction | Rare | True allergy to glycerin is uncommon; patch-test positivity is infrequent. |
Skin dehydration in very low humidity | Rare | In very dry environments humectants may draw water from deeper skin layers if not paired with an occlusive. |
Redness or itching | Rare | Generally associated with overall formulation rather than the ingredient alone. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate Surfactant / cleansing agent | Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is an amino acid-derived anionic surfactant used in cleansers, shampoos and toothpastes to provide gentle foaming and cleansing. It is generally considered milder than traditional sulfate surfactants. |
| Polyacrylate-33 Film former/rheology modifier | Polyacrylate-33 is a synthetic acrylate-based polymer used in cosmetic formulations as a thickener, stabilizer, and film-forming agent. It helps adjust viscosity and improve texture and stability of emulsions and gels. |
| Cocamidopropyl Betaine Surfactant / foaming cleanser | Cocamidopropyl Betaine is an amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine, used in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes to provide gentle foaming, viscosity, and to reduce the harshness of stronger anionic surfactants. It is widely regarded as mild but is a recognized contact allergen. |
| Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate Mild amphoteric surfactant / cleansing agent | Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate is a coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant used in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes to provide gentle cleansing, foam, and to reduce the irritation potential of harsher anionic surfactants. It is valued for mildness in baby and sensitive-skin formulations. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Sodium PCA Humectant | Sodium PCA (sodium pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid and a component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). It is widely used in cosmetics as a water-binding humectant to hydrate and soften the skin. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects cosmetic and skincare formulations from bacterial and fungal contamination. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and serves as a formulation/base ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Betaine Humectant / osmolyte | Betaine is a naturally derived amino acid derivative (trimethylglycine) used in skincare as a humectant and osmoprotectant that attracts and retains moisture while helping stabilize skin barrier function. It also improves the texture and mildness of formulations. |
| Sodium Hydroxide pH adjuster | Sodium hydroxide (lye) is a strong alkaline compound used in small amounts to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations. At regulated low concentrations in finished products it is considered safe, though it is corrosive in concentrated form. |
| Benzophenone-4 Key active UV filter (sunscreen agent) | Benzophenone-4 (sulisobenzone) is a water-soluble organic UV filter that absorbs UVB and short UVA radiation, helping protect skin and formulations from sun-induced damage. It is also used to prevent UV degradation of product ingredients and color. |
| Xylitol Humectant / moisturizer | Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used in topical formulations as a humectant that helps attract and retain moisture in the skin, and it may support the skin's microbiome and barrier function. It is generally well tolerated and considered safe for topical use. |
| Glucose Humectant/skin-conditioning agent | Glucose is a simple sugar used in skincare primarily as a humectant and skin-conditioning ingredient, helping to attract and retain moisture in the skin. It can also serve as a substrate in formulations and contributes to the skin's natural moisturizing factors. |
| Sodium Benzoate Preservative | Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, particularly in acidic products. It is most effective at a pH below 5. |
| Aloe Vera Leaf Extract Soothing/humectant | Aloe vera leaf extract is a plant-derived ingredient used to soothe, hydrate, and condition the skin. It contains polysaccharides, vitamins, and enzymes that support moisturization and may help calm minor irritation. |
| Panthenol Humectant / skin-conditioning agent | Panthenol (provitamin B5) is converted to pantothenic acid in the skin, where it acts as a humectant and helps support skin barrier function and hydration. It is also used for its soothing and mild anti-inflammatory properties in topical formulations. |
| PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Solubilizer/emulsifier | PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a nonionic surfactant derived from hydrogenated castor oil reacted with ethylene oxide, widely used to dissolve fragrances and oils into water-based formulations and to stabilize emulsions. It functions as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| IFRA Certified Allergen Free Fragrance Fragrance/masking agent | A fragrance compliant with International Fragrance Association (IFRA) standards and formulated to exclude the 26 EU-designated allergens, used to impart or mask scent in cosmetic products. It is a formulation additive rather than a treatment active. |
| Niacinamide Key active Cell-communicating / barrier-repair active | Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%. |
| Anhydroxylitol Humectant / moisturizing agent | Anhydroxylitol is a sugar-derived (xylitol) humectant used in skincare to attract and retain water, helping to maintain skin hydration and barrier function. It is often combined with xylitol and xylitylglucoside to enhance the skin's natural moisturizing factors. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative booster / skin-conditioning agent | Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional glyceryl ether used in cosmetics primarily as a preservative-enhancing agent and emollient, often paired with phenoxyethanol to broaden antimicrobial efficacy. It also acts as a deodorizing agent and humectant in skincare formulations. |
| Date Palm Extract Key active Antioxidant / skin-conditioning agent | Date Palm Extract (Phoenix dactylifera) is a botanical ingredient rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins, and sugars that provides antioxidant and humectant skin-conditioning benefits. It is used in cosmetic formulations to support hydration and help mitigate signs of environmental and oxidative skin aging. |
| Glyceryl Glucoside Key active Humectant / moisturizer | Glyceryl glucoside is a naturally occurring sugar-glycerol compound used in skincare as a humectant that attracts and binds water to the skin. It is also studied for its ability to stimulate aquaporin water-channel expression, supporting skin hydration and barrier function. |
| Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate Key active Vitamin C derivative / antioxidant | Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that is converted to active ascorbic acid in the skin. It provides antioxidant protection, supports collagen synthesis, and is also studied for its brightening and anti-acne (antibacterial) effects. |
| Menthol Key active Cooling agent / counterirritant | Menthol is a naturally occurring or synthetic compound derived from mint oils that produces a cooling sensation by activating TRPM8 receptors on the skin. It is used in topical products for its soothing, mild analgesic, and antipruritic effects. |
| Glycolic Acid Key active Chemical exfoliant (AHA) | Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane that exfoliates by loosening bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, promoting cell turnover and improving texture, tone, and fine lines. It is one of the smallest AHAs, allowing relatively deep penetration into the skin. |
| Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant / hydrator | Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin to improve hydration and surface plumpness. Its lower molecular weight allows better penetration than native hyaluronic acid. |
| Cherry Tomato Extract Key active Antioxidant | Cherry tomato extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in carotenoids such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and polyphenols, used in topical formulations for its antioxidant properties. It is purported to help neutralize free radicals and support protection against oxidative and UV-induced skin stress. |
| Propylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Propylene glycol is a small glycol molecule widely used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer that helps attract water and dissolve other ingredients. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Glycolic Acid Key active Chemical exfoliant (AHA) | Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane that exfoliates by loosening bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, promoting cell turnover and improving texture, tone, and fine lines. It is one of the smallest AHAs, allowing relatively deep penetration into the skin. |
| Lactic Acid Key active Chemical exfoliant (AHA) | Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin by loosening bonds between corneocytes, promoting cell turnover, and acting as a humectant to improve hydration, texture, and tone. It is commonly used at concentrations ranging from low (hydration) to higher peel-strength formulations. |
| Natural Betaine Humectant/osmolyte | Natural betaine (trimethylglycine), often derived from sugar beet, is a small osmolyte that attracts and retains water in the skin and helps protect cells against osmotic and environmental stress. It is used in skincare and cosmetics primarily as a moisturizing agent and to improve product mildness and texture. |
| Propylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Propylene glycol is a small glycol molecule widely used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer that helps attract water and dissolve other ingredients. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Cherry Tomato Extract Key active Antioxidant | Cherry tomato extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in carotenoids such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and polyphenols, used in topical formulations for its antioxidant properties. It is purported to help neutralize free radicals and support protection against oxidative and UV-induced skin stress. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects cosmetic and skincare formulations from bacterial and fungal contamination. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and serves as a formulation/base ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Hydroxyethylcellulose Thickener/viscosity modifier | Hydroxyethylcellulose is a non-ionic, water-soluble cellulose derivative used to thicken, stabilize, and adjust the texture of aqueous cosmetic formulations. It functions as a gelling and film-forming agent rather than providing a direct biological skin benefit. |
| Hyaluronic Acid Key active Humectant / hydrating agent | Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin, helping to maintain hydration and improve the appearance of plumpness and smoothness. It is widely used in moisturizers and serums and is generally well tolerated across skin types. |
| Citric Acid Anhydrous Formulation / support | |
| PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether Humectant/emollient | PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether is a glucose-derived polypropylene glycol ether used in cosmetics as a humectant and skin conditioning agent that attracts moisture and improves spreadability and skin feel. It functions as a formulation/base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Glyceryl Glucoside Key active Humectant / moisturizer | Glyceryl glucoside is a naturally occurring sugar-glycerol compound used in skincare as a humectant that attracts and binds water to the skin. It is also studied for its ability to stimulate aquaporin water-channel expression, supporting skin hydration and barrier function. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative booster / skin-conditioning agent | Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional glyceryl ether used in cosmetics primarily as a preservative-enhancing agent and emollient, often paired with phenoxyethanol to broaden antimicrobial efficacy. It also acts as a deodorizing agent and humectant in skincare formulations. |
| Cucumber Extract Soothing/hydrating botanical extract | Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its hydrating, soothing, and mild antioxidant properties, often used to calm and refresh the skin. It contains water, vitamins, and polysaccharides that help temporarily condition and reduce the appearance of irritation. |
| Disodium EDTA Chelating agent | Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used in cosmetics to bind metal ions, improving product stability, preventing rancidity, and enhancing the efficacy of preservatives. It is a formulation/base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Emollient / texture enhancer | C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a lightweight ester emollient widely used in skincare and cosmetics to improve spreadability, provide a smooth non-greasy skin feel, and act as a solvent and mild antimicrobial booster. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate Key active UVA filter (sunscreen) | Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (also known as Uvinul A Plus) is an oil-soluble organic UV filter that absorbs primarily in the long-wave UVA range (around 354 nm), helping protect skin from UVA-induced damage. It is photostable and commonly combined with other filters in broad-spectrum sunscreens. |
| Ethylhexyl Triazone Key active UVB sunscreen filter | Ethylhexyl Triazone is an oil-soluble organic UV filter that strongly absorbs UVB radiation (peak around 314 nm), valued for its high photostability and efficiency at low concentrations. It is commonly used in sunscreens and daily-wear products to boost SPF. |
| Propanediol Humectant/solvent | Propanediol is a plant-derived glycol used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer that improves moisturization and the spreadability of formulations. It also helps solubilize other ingredients and can boost the efficacy of certain actives. |
| Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine Key active UV filter (sunscreen) | Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (also known as Bemotrizinol or Tinosorb S) is a broad-spectrum organic UV filter that absorbs both UVA and UVB radiation. It is highly photostable and is commonly used in sunscreens and daytime skincare products to provide photoprotection. |
| Lecithin Emollient / Emulsifier | Lecithin is a naturally occurring phospholipid (commonly derived from soybean or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and penetration enhancer. It helps stabilize oil-and-water formulations and supports the skin barrier by mimicking natural lipids. |
| Phenethyl Alcohol Preservative / fragrance | Phenethyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol used in cosmetics primarily as a preservative and antimicrobial agent, and sometimes as a fragrance component with a mild rose-like scent. It is often combined with other preservatives to broaden antimicrobial coverage. |
| Hydroxyacetophenone Antioxidant / soothing agent | Hydroxyacetophenone (acetophenone-based compound, often 4'-hydroxyacetophenone) is used in skincare primarily as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent that can also enhance the stability and efficacy of preservative systems. It is valued for its soothing properties and helps neutralize free radicals while reducing potential irritation from other formulation components. |
| Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate Key active UV filter (UVB sunscreen) | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (octinoxate) is a widely used organic UVB-absorbing sunscreen agent that protects skin from ultraviolet radiation. It is commonly incorporated into sunscreens and daily cosmetics with SPF claims. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Titanium Dioxide Key active UV filter / mineral sunscreen | Titanium dioxide is an inorganic mineral compound used primarily as a physical (mineral) sunscreen agent that reflects and scatters UV radiation, and also serves as a white pigment and opacifier in cosmetic formulations. It is broadly photostable and considered gentle, making it common in products for sensitive and pediatric skin. |
| Niacinamide Key active Cell-communicating / barrier-repair active | Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%. |
| Dimethicone Emollient/occlusive (silicone) | Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer used in skincare to soften skin, smooth texture, and form a breathable protective barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss. It is widely used as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Hyaluronic Acid Key active Humectant / hydrating agent | Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin, helping to maintain hydration and improve the appearance of plumpness and smoothness. It is widely used in moisturizers and serums and is generally well tolerated across skin types. |
| Betaine Humectant / osmolyte | Betaine is a naturally derived amino acid derivative (trimethylglycine) used in skincare as a humectant and osmoprotectant that attracts and retains moisture while helping stabilize skin barrier function. It also improves the texture and mildness of formulations. |
Key active = does the main work. Ingredient explanations are drawn from public databases & literature.
Peer-reviewed papers on the active ingredients in this product, via PubMed.