Below is every ingredient in 3-in-1 Tinted Sun Serum - Sand | 50ml 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.
Zinc oxide is a mineral (inorganic) UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation by scattering and absorbing light. It also has mild astringent and soothing properties and is used in sunscreens, diaper creams, and barrier preparations.
Tocopheryl acetate is a stable, esterified form of vitamin E used in skincare as an antioxidant and conditioning agent. It is converted to active tocopherol in the skin, helping protect against oxidative stress and supporting the skin barrier.
Bisabolol is a naturally derived (typically from chamomile) or synthetic terpene alcohol used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and skin-conditioning properties. It is also reported to enhance penetration of other ingredients and offers mild antimicrobial activity.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (green tea extract) is derived from the leaves of the tea plant and is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins like EGCG. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties.
7-Dehydrocholesterol is a cholesterol derivative naturally present in skin that converts to vitamin D3 upon UVB exposure. In skincare it functions as a barrier-supporting lipid precursor and provitamin antioxidant.
Syzygium luehmannii (riberry/lilly pilly) fruit extract is an Australian native botanical rich in vitamin C, anthocyanins, and polyphenols, used in skincare for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It is valued for protecting skin against oxidative stress and supporting a more even tone.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White cast / cosmetic residue on skin | Common | Non-micronized particles can leave a visible white film, especially on darker skin tones. |
| Dryness or mild skin tightness | Uncommon | Due to its astringent nature, particularly in high concentrations. |
| Clogged pores / acne aggravation | Uncommon | More often attributed to occlusive base ingredients than to zinc oxide itself. |
| Contact irritation or stinging | Rare | Generally well tolerated; irritation often relates to other formulation components. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | True allergy to zinc oxide is uncommon; reactions usually involve other excipients or fragrances. |
| Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional reports, typically in sensitive individuals or with occlusive formulations. |
| Contact dermatitis / allergic sensitization | Very rare | Silicones are generally considered low-allergen; documented allergy is uncommon. |
| Eye irritation | Rare | Possible stinging or irritation on direct ocular contact. |
| Acne or pore congestion | Rare | Generally non-comedogenic, but anecdotal breakouts reported in acne-prone users. |
| Comedogenicity (pore clogging) | Rare | Low comedogenic potential but possible in acne-prone skin. |
| Skin irritation | Rare | Generally well tolerated; mild irritation possible in sensitive individuals. |
| Comedogenicity / breakouts | Uncommon | Low comedogenic potential but may contribute to clogged pores in acne-prone skin. |
| Contact urticaria | Very rare | Isolated reports of hive-like reactions tied to benzoate moiety. |
| Contact allergy / sensitization | Very rare | Rarely reported; salicylate derivatives can theoretically trigger sensitization in predisposed individuals. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Zinc Oxide Key active UV filter / skin protectant | Zinc oxide is a mineral (inorganic) UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation by scattering and absorbing light. It also has mild astringent and soothing properties and is used in sunscreens, diaper creams, and barrier preparations. |
| Trisiloxane Emollient / silicone slip agent | Trisiloxane is a low-molecular-weight silicone used in skincare and cosmetics to impart a smooth, silky feel, enhance spreadability, and provide a non-greasy emollient finish. It functions primarily as a texture-enhancing base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Isoamyl Laurate Emollient | Isoamyl Laurate is a plant-derived ester (from isoamyl alcohol and lauric acid) used as a lightweight, fast-spreading emollient that improves skin feel and product texture. It functions to soften and condition the skin and acts as a natural alternative to silicones. |
| 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. |
| Butyloctyl Salicylate Emollient / UV filter solubilizer | Butyloctyl Salicylate is a lipophilic salicylate ester used in cosmetic formulations primarily as an emollient and as a solubilizer that enhances the dissolution and stability of organic UV filters in sunscreens. It also provides mild spreadability and a smooth skin feel. |
| Cyclopentasiloxane Emollient/silicone | Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile cyclic silicone widely used in skincare and cosmetics to impart a smooth, silky feel and spreadability before evaporating, leaving no greasy residue. It also serves as a carrier and helps reduce tackiness in formulations. |
| PEG-10 Dimethicone Silicone-based emulsifier/conditioning agent | PEG-10 Dimethicone is a water-dispersible, PEG-modified silicone used in cosmetics as an emulsifier, surfactant, and skin-conditioning agent that imparts a smooth, silky feel and helps stabilize emulsions. It is considered a formulation/base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene Photostabilizer / UV filter solubilizer | Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene is a synthetic ingredient used in sunscreens to stabilize UV filters such as avobenzone and octinoxate, preventing their photodegradation upon sun exposure. It also acts as a solvent that helps dissolve other UV-absorbing compounds in the formulation. |
| Lauryl PEG-10 Tris (Trimethylsiloxy) silylethyl Dimethicone Silicone-based emulsifier | Lauryl PEG-10 Tris (Trimethylsiloxy) silylethyl Dimethicone is a silicone polymer surfactant used to emulsify and stabilize water-in-silicone formulations such as foundations, sunscreens, and color cosmetics. It improves spreadability, texture, and the even dispersion of pigments and other ingredients. |
| Aqua Solvent / vehicle | Aqua (water) is the most common base ingredient in skincare formulations, serving as a solvent that dissolves water-soluble components and forms the medium for emulsions. It has no direct treatment activity and primarily contributes to texture, spreadability, and product delivery. |
| Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer Opacifying/film-forming agent | Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer is a synthetic polymer used in cosmetics primarily as an opacifying agent and film former, often supplied as a dispersion of small colored or white beads that add opacity, texture, and a smooth finish to products. It is a formulation/base ingredient rather than a biologically active treatment ingredient. |
| Triacontanyl PVP Film former / texturizing agent | Triacontanyl PVP is a copolymer of a long-chain alkene (triacontene) and vinylpyrrolidone used in cosmetics primarily as a film-forming, oil-binding and viscosity-controlling agent. It helps stabilize emulsions, improve water resistance, and impart a smooth, matte feel in products such as sunscreens, color cosmetics, and lotions. |
| Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (argan oil) is a plant-derived emollient rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids, tocopherols, and polyphenols, used to soften skin, support the skin barrier, and provide antioxidant activity. It functions primarily as a moisturizing and conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations. |
| Tocopheryl Acetate Key active Antioxidant | Tocopheryl acetate is a stable, esterified form of vitamin E used in skincare as an antioxidant and conditioning agent. It is converted to active tocopherol in the skin, helping protect against oxidative stress and supporting the skin barrier. |
| Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate Emollient/skin-conditioning agent | Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate is an ester of pentaerythritol and isostearic acid used as an emollient, thickener, and pigment-wetting agent in cosmetic formulations. It imparts spreadability and a smooth feel, commonly appearing in color cosmetics, lipsticks, and skincare creams. |
| Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer Texture enhancer / mattifying agent | Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer used in cosmetics as a film-former and oil-absorbing powder that imparts a smooth, soft-focus, matte feel to formulations. It functions primarily as a sensory and texturizing base ingredient rather than a skin-treatment active. |
| 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. |
| Isostearic Acid Emollient/emulsifier | Isostearic acid is a branched-chain fatty acid used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient, co-emulsifier, and dispersing agent that improves spreadability and texture. It is valued for its oxidative stability and liquid consistency compared to straight-chain stearic acid. |
| Glyceryl Caprylate Emollient / antimicrobial co-preservative | Glyceryl Caprylate is a monoglyceride derived from glycerin and caprylic acid, used in skincare as an emollient, moisturizing agent, and skin-conditioning component with mild antimicrobial properties that support preservation. It is commonly employed to help stabilize formulations and reduce reliance on conventional preservatives. |
| Polyhydroxystearic Acid Dispersant/emulsifier | Polyhydroxystearic acid is a fatty acid derivative used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a dispersing agent and emulsifier, helping to evenly distribute pigments (such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in sunscreens) and stabilize oil-based or water-in-oil systems. It improves texture, spreadability, and uniformity rather than providing a direct biological skin benefit. |
| Boron Nitride Texture enhancer / soft-focus filler | Boron nitride is an inert mineral powder used in cosmetics to improve slip, spreadability, and adhesion while providing a soft-focus optical effect that blurs the appearance of fine lines and pores. It is valued for its smooth, silky feel and light-diffusing properties in powders, foundations, and color cosmetics. |
| 1,2-Hexanediol Humectant / preservative booster | 1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic diol used in skincare as a humectant and solvent that also enhances the antimicrobial efficacy of formulations, often allowing reduced or preservative-free systems. It helps maintain product stability while contributing mild moisturizing properties. |
| Mica Colorant/opacifying agent | Mica is a naturally occurring silicate mineral used in cosmetics as a colorant and light-reflecting pigment to add shimmer, opacity, and a smooth feel to formulations. It is considered inert and is widely used in makeup, sunscreens, and skincare products. |
| Disteardimonium Hectorite Rheology modifier / suspending agent | Disteardimonium Hectorite is a modified clay (quaternized hectorite) used in cosmetic formulations as a thickener and gellant, primarily in anhydrous and oil-based systems such as sunscreens, foundations, and lipsticks. It helps suspend pigments and prevent ingredient separation. |
| 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 Chloride Thickener / viscosity adjuster | Sodium chloride (table salt) is commonly used in cosmetics as a thickening and viscosity-control agent, particularly in surfactant-based cleansers, and also acts as a mild abrasive in scrubs. It is generally well tolerated and considered a formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Bisabolol Key active Soothing/anti-inflammatory agent | Bisabolol is a naturally derived (typically from chamomile) or synthetic terpene alcohol used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and skin-conditioning properties. It is also reported to enhance penetration of other ingredients and offers mild antimicrobial activity. |
| Propylene Carbonate Solvent / viscosity-controlling agent | Propylene carbonate is a clear, colorless solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients and control viscosity, often functioning as a gelling and dispersing agent for pigments and clays. It is considered a formulation aid rather than an active skincare ingredient. |
| Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Key active Antioxidant | Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (green tea extract) is derived from the leaves of the tea plant and is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins like EGCG. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. |
| Hydrolyzed Keratin Conditioning agent / film former | Hydrolyzed keratin is a protein derived from animal sources (such as wool or feathers) that has been broken down into smaller peptides for better absorption. It is used in hair and skin care to improve moisture retention, smoothness, and surface conditioning by forming a protective film. |
| Caprylhydroxamic Acid Preservative / chelating agent | Caprylhydroxamic acid is a glycine-derived hydroxamic acid used primarily as a preservative and chelating agent in cosmetic formulations, where it helps control microbial growth (especially fungi) and stabilizes products by binding trace metal ions. It is typically used in combination with other preservatives such as glycols and is effective across a relatively wide pH range. |
| Sodium Potassium Aluminum Silicate Bulking/anticaking agent, opacifier | Sodium Potassium Aluminum Silicate is a mineral-derived aluminosilicate used in cosmetics as a bulking agent, opacifier, and texture-modifying filler. It is considered chemically inert and primarily serves a formulation role rather than providing a skin treatment benefit. |
| Limonene Fragrance/solvent | Limonene is a naturally occurring monoterpene derived from citrus peel oils, commonly used as a fragrance component and solvent in cosmetic formulations. On exposure to air it oxidizes, forming compounds with greater sensitizing potential. |
| Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Oil Fragrance/aromatic | Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Leaf Oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves of the bergamot orange tree, used primarily as a fragrance and aromatic component in cosmetic formulations. It contains volatile terpenes and may impart a fresh citrus scent. |
| Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil Fragrance/essential oil | Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (sweet orange) Oil is a cold-pressed essential oil from orange peel used primarily as a natural fragrance and for purported antioxidant and aromatherapeutic effects. It contains limonene and other volatile terpenes that contribute scent but also carry irritation and sensitization potential. |
| Juniperus Mexicana Oil Fragrance/essential oil | Juniperus Mexicana Oil (Texas cedarwood oil) is a volatile essential oil derived from the wood of the Mexican juniper, used primarily as a fragrance component and aromatic ingredient in cosmetic formulations. It contains sesquiterpenes such as cedrol and thujopsene. |
| Pelargonium Graveolens Oil Fragrance/Essential oil | Pelargonium Graveolens Oil (geranium oil) is a steam-distilled essential oil from the geranium plant, used in skincare primarily as a fragrance and aromatic agent and occasionally for its purported antimicrobial and astringent properties. It contains constituents such as citronellol and geraniol that contribute scent but also carry allergenic potential. |
| 7-Dehydrocholesterol Key active Provitamin D3 / skin lipid precursor | 7-Dehydrocholesterol is a cholesterol derivative naturally present in skin that converts to vitamin D3 upon UVB exposure. In skincare it functions as a barrier-supporting lipid precursor and provitamin antioxidant. |
| Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Oil Fragrance/aromatic | Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Oil (neroli oil) is an essential oil distilled from bitter orange blossoms, used primarily as a natural fragrance and aromatic component in cosmetic formulations. It contains volatile constituents such as linalool and limonene that contribute scent but offer limited proven skincare benefit. |
| Eugenia Caryophyllus Leaf Oil Fragrance/antimicrobial | Eugenia Caryophyllus Leaf Oil is an essential oil derived from clove leaves, used in cosmetics primarily as a fragrance component and for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, largely attributable to its high eugenol content. It is not typically considered a treatment active in skincare formulations. |
| Maltodextrin Carrier/film-forming agent | Maltodextrin is a polysaccharide derived from starch hydrolysis, used in skincare primarily as a carrier, bulking agent, film former, and stabilizer for active ingredients and powders. It also helps improve texture and can act as a mild thickening or emulsion-stabilizing aid. |
| Silica Absorbent/texturizer | Silica is a mineral-derived ingredient (silicon dioxide) used in cosmetics to absorb oil and sebum, improve texture, and act as a bulking, anti-caking, or matting agent. It is generally inert and well tolerated on skin. |
| Anigozanthos Flavidus Flower Extract Botanical extract / skin conditioning | Anigozanthos Flavidus Flower Extract is derived from the Australian kangaroo paw plant and is used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a skin-conditioning and moisturizing agent, with claimed antioxidant and soothing properties. It is typically included as a supporting botanical rather than a primary clinical active. |
| Syzygium Luehmannii Fruit Extract Key active Antioxidant / skin-conditioning extract | Syzygium luehmannii (riberry/lilly pilly) fruit extract is an Australian native botanical rich in vitamin C, anthocyanins, and polyphenols, used in skincare for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties. It is valued for protecting skin against oxidative stress and supporting a more even tone. |
| Tin Oxide Opacifier / colorant additive | Tin oxide is an inorganic mineral compound used in cosmetics primarily as an opacifier and to enhance the luster or sparkle of pearlescent pigments and mica-based colorants. It serves a formulation and aesthetic role rather than providing any skincare treatment benefit. |
| Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract Key active Antioxidant | Aspalathus Linearis (rooibos) leaf extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols such as aspalathin and flavonoids, used in skincare for its antioxidant and soothing properties. It is intended to help neutralize free radicals and reduce visible signs of skin irritation. |
| Butylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Butylene glycol is a small diol commonly used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-reducing agent that helps dissolve other ingredients and improve skin feel. It is widely regarded as safe and non-sensitizing for the majority of users at cosmetic concentrations. |
| Sodium Lactate Humectant / NMF component | Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid and a key component of skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), used to hydrate the skin and buffer formulation pH. It also has mild exfoliating and humectant properties that help maintain skin moisture and barrier function. |
| 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. |
| Melanin Key active Pigment / photoprotective antioxidant | Melanin is a natural biological pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye coloration, providing protection against UV radiation by absorbing and scattering harmful rays. In topical formulations it is studied for its antioxidant and photoprotective properties. |
| Pentylene Glycol Humectant / solvent / preservative-booster | Pentylene glycol is a glycol used in cosmetics as a humectant and solvent that also enhances the antimicrobial efficacy of formulations, helping reduce reliance on traditional preservatives. It improves skin hydration and aids the delivery and stability of other ingredients. |
| Ceteareth-25 Emulsifier / surfactant | Ceteareth-25 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of cetearyl alcohol used as a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer to blend oil and water phases and stabilize creams and lotions. It is a formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Linalool Fragrance/masking agent | Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene alcohol found in lavender, coriander, and many other plants, used in skincare primarily as a fragrance component. It readily oxidizes upon exposure to air, forming sensitizing hydroperoxides. |
| 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. |
| Magnesium Aspartate Skin-conditioning / mineral salt | Magnesium Aspartate is a magnesium salt of aspartic acid used in skincare primarily as a skin-conditioning agent and source of magnesium, sometimes included to support skin barrier function and hydration. It typically functions as a supporting ingredient rather than a primary therapeutic active. |
| Zinc Gluconate Key active Sebum regulator / anti-inflammatory | Zinc gluconate is a zinc salt of gluconic acid used topically and orally for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and sebum-regulating properties, often in acne and oily-skin formulations. It supplies bioavailable zinc that supports skin barrier function and wound healing. |
| Cetyl Alcohol Emollient / emulsifier | Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used in skincare and cosmetics as an emollient, thickener, and emulsion stabilizer. It softens skin and helps maintain the consistency and texture of creams and lotions. |
| Citronellol Fragrance ingredient | Citronellol is a naturally occurring monoterpene alcohol used as a fragrance and flavoring agent, providing a rose-like, citrusy scent in cosmetics and personal care products. It is found in essential oils such as rose, geranium, and citronella. |
| 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. |
| Davidsonia Pruriens Fruit Extract Key active Antioxidant / skin-conditioning | Davidsonia Pruriens (Davidson's plum) fruit extract is a botanical ingredient rich in vitamin C, anthocyanins, and polyphenols used in topical formulations for its antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties. It is valued for potential brightening and free-radical scavenging effects, though robust clinical data is limited. |
| 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. |
| Glycine Amino acid / humectant | Glycine is a small amino acid used in skincare as a humectant and conditioning agent, supporting skin hydration and acting as a building block for collagen and natural moisturizing factor. It is generally considered well-tolerated and is often included as part of moisturizing or barrier-support formulations. |
| 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. |
| Potassium Sorbate Preservative | Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, used as a mild preservative to inhibit mold, yeast, and some bacterial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is most effective at acidic pH and is often combined with other preservatives for broad-spectrum protection. |
| Behenic Acid Emollient/thickener | Behenic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid (C22) used in skincare as an emollient, thickening agent, and emulsion stabilizer to improve texture and provide a smooth, conditioning feel. It is derived from plant oils such as rapeseed and peanut oil. |
| Ceramide NP Skin-barrier replenishing lipid / emollient | Ceramide NP (formerly ceramide 3) is a naturally occurring sphingolipid that helps restore and maintain the skin's lipid barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss and improving hydration. It is widely used in moisturizers and barrier-repair formulations. |
| Cholesterol Skin barrier lipid / emollient | Cholesterol is a naturally occurring lipid found in the skin's stratum corneum that, alongside ceramides and fatty acids, helps maintain the skin barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss. In skincare formulations it functions as an emollient and barrier-repair agent that improves hydration and skin resilience. |
| Copper Gluconate Key active Skin-conditioning / antioxidant trace mineral | Copper gluconate is a copper salt of gluconic acid used in skincare as a source of copper, supporting antioxidant defense and enzymatic processes involved in collagen and elastin synthesis. It is often included in anti-aging and wound-supportive formulations. |
| Fructose Humectant | Fructose is a simple monosaccharide sugar used in skincare primarily as a humectant that attracts and binds water to help maintain skin hydration. It is generally considered a supporting/base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Inositol Humectant / conditioning agent | Inositol is a sugar alcohol (carbocyclic polyol) used in skincare as a moisturizing and conditioning ingredient that supports skin hydration and barrier function. It is generally considered mild and well tolerated in topical formulations. |
| 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. |
| 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%. |
| Urea Key active Humectant / keratolytic | Urea is a naturally occurring component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor that hydrates by attracting and retaining water; at higher concentrations it also softens and exfoliates thickened or scaly skin. It is widely used to treat dry skin conditions such as xerosis, ichthyosis, and hyperkeratosis. |
| 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. |
| Citric Acid pH adjuster / AHA exfoliant | Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from citrus fruits, used primarily to adjust and buffer formulation pH and as a chelating agent, and at higher concentrations as a mild chemical exfoliant. It can promote surface cell turnover and is sometimes included in antioxidant or brightening products. |
| Ceramide NS Skin-barrier lipid / emollient | Ceramide NS (formerly Ceramide 2) is a naturally occurring sphingolipid that helps restore and maintain the skin's lipid barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss and improving hydration. It is widely used in moisturizers and barrier-repair formulations. |
| Serine Humectant / amino acid | Serine is a naturally occurring amino acid and component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), used in skincare to support hydration and help maintain the skin barrier. It is typically incorporated as a conditioning and water-binding agent rather than a clinical treatment active. |
| Glutamic Acid Humectant / amino acid | Glutamic acid is a naturally occurring amino acid used in skincare as a humectant and component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), helping to maintain hydration and support the skin barrier. It is also used as a pH adjuster and in some formulations to enhance moisturization. |
| Ceramide AP Skin barrier lipid / moisturizer | Ceramide AP (ceramide 6-II) is a naturally occurring sphingolipid that helps restore and maintain the skin's barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is commonly used in moisturizers and barrier-repair formulations, often combined with other ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. |
| Ceramide EOP Skin barrier lipid | Ceramide EOP is a long-chain omega-hydroxy ceramide that helps form and maintain the skin's lipid barrier, supporting moisture retention and reducing transepidermal water loss. It is commonly used in moisturizers and barrier-repair formulations. |
| Ceramide EOS Skin barrier lipid / emollient | Ceramide EOS is an esterified omega-hydroxy ceramide that is a key component of the skin's lipid matrix, helping restore the barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is typically used in formulations to support hydration and barrier repair. |
| Aspartic Acid Amino acid / humectant | Aspartic acid is a non-essential amino acid used in skincare primarily as a hydrating and conditioning agent, often as part of amino acid complexes or natural moisturizing factor (NMF) blends. It supports skin barrier function and helps maintain hydration. |
| Leucine Skin-conditioning amino acid | Leucine is a branched-chain essential amino acid used in skincare primarily as a skin-conditioning agent and humectant that helps support the skin's natural moisturizing factor. It is generally included at low concentrations as a supportive or formulation ingredient rather than a primary treatment active. |
| Acetyl Tetrapeptide-22 Key active Anti-aging peptide / cell-protective signal peptide | Acetyl Tetrapeptide-22 is a synthetic biomimetic peptide marketed to protect skin cells from stress (notably UV and oxidative damage) and to support skin barrier resilience. It is used in cosmetic formulations at low concentrations as a supportive anti-aging and protective active. |
| Caprooyl Phytosphingosine Skin-conditioning / barrier-repair lipid | Caprooyl Phytosphingosine is a fatty-acid derivative of phytosphingosine used to support the skin's lipid barrier and improve moisture retention. It is commonly included in soothing and repairing formulations, often alongside ceramides and other barrier lipids. |
| Caprooyl Sphingosine Key active Skin-conditioning / barrier-repair lipid | Caprooyl Sphingosine is a synthetic pseudo-ceramide (a sphingosine derivative) used to help reinforce the skin's lipid barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is incorporated into moisturizers and barrier-repair formulations to support hydration and skin smoothness. |
| Alanine Amino acid / humectant | Alanine is a small non-essential amino acid used in skincare as a humectant and component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), helping to maintain hydration and support the skin barrier. It is also used as a buffering agent and to improve the feel of formulations. |
| Lysine Amino acid / conditioning agent | Lysine is an essential amino acid used in skincare primarily as a skin-conditioning and humectant-like ingredient, and as a component supporting collagen and protein structure. It is generally well tolerated and often included in moisturizing or repair-focused formulations. |
| Arginine Amino acid / pH adjuster & conditioning agent | Arginine is a basic amino acid used in skincare primarily as a pH buffer/neutralizer and humectant-like conditioning agent that supports skin hydration and barrier function. It is generally well tolerated and often paired with acidic ingredients to balance formulation pH. |
| Tyrosine Key active Melanin precursor / tanning aid | Tyrosine is an amino acid that serves as the natural substrate for melanin synthesis in the skin. In cosmetics it is sometimes added to tanning products with the claim of promoting or accelerating pigmentation, though topical efficacy is poorly supported by evidence. |
| Phenylalanine Amino acid / conditioning agent | Phenylalanine is an essential aromatic amino acid used in skincare as a skin-conditioning and humectant agent, and is also studied for its role in melanin synthesis pathways. In topical formulations it generally serves a supportive, hydrating function. |
| Proline Amino acid / skin-conditioning agent | Proline is a non-essential amino acid and a key component of collagen, used in skincare as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent to support hydration and the skin barrier. It is generally well tolerated and often included in formulations for its moisturizing and structural-protein-supporting properties. |
| Threonine Amino acid / skin conditioning agent | Threonine is an essential amino acid used in skincare primarily as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, helping support hydration and the skin's natural moisturizing factor. It is also a building block for proteins such as collagen and elastin. |
| Valine Amino acid / skin conditioning agent | Valine is a branched-chain essential amino acid used in skincare primarily as a humectant and skin-conditioning component, often as part of amino acid blends that support the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). It helps maintain hydration and contributes to the protein-building constituents found naturally in the skin. |
| Isoleucine Conditioning amino acid / humectant | Isoleucine is a branched-chain amino acid used in skincare as a skin-conditioning agent and humectant that helps maintain hydration and supports the skin's natural moisturizing factor. It is generally included in formulations to improve skin feel and barrier support rather than as a primary therapeutic active. |
| Histidine Amino acid / skin-conditioning agent | Histidine is an essential amino acid used in skincare as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, helping to support the skin's natural moisturizing factor and antioxidant defenses. It may also help buffer formulations and bind metal ions. |
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.