Below is every ingredient in 5% Niacinamide Hydra Glow Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ 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.
Octyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) is a widely used organic UVB filter that absorbs ultraviolet radiation to protect skin from sunburn and photodamage. It is commonly incorporated into sunscreens and daily-care products with SPF claims.
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, also known as avobenzone, is a widely used organic sunscreen agent that absorbs UVA radiation. It is often combined with photostabilizers and other UV filters because it can degrade with sun exposure.
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.
Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone (Iscotrizinol, Uvasorb HEB) is an organic, oil-soluble UVB filter that absorbs ultraviolet radiation primarily in the UVB range, providing photoprotection in sunscreen and daily-care formulations. It is highly photostable and substantive to skin, often combined with other filters for broad-spectrum coverage.
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%.
Centella Asiatica Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic and madecassic acids) used to calm inflammation, support wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier. It is also valued for antioxidant and collagen-supporting properties in topical formulations.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin dryness or barrier disruption with excessive contact | Uncommon | Frequent or prolonged exposure to water, especially hot or hard water, can disrupt the skin barrier and contribute to transepidermal water loss. |
| Irritation from impurities or hard water minerals | Rare | Reactions are attributed to contaminants, chlorine, or mineral content rather than water itself. |
| Contact irritation | Uncommon | Mild stinging or redness, especially on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Documented in patch-testing as a contact allergen, though sensitization is infrequent. |
| Photoallergic/photocontact dermatitis | Rare | Reaction triggered by combined exposure to the ingredient and sunlight. |
| Potential endocrine activity | Very rare | Weak estrogenic effects observed in laboratory and animal studies; clinical relevance at typical use levels is uncertain. |
| Contact allergic reaction (allergic contact dermatitis) | Rare | Avobenzone is a recognized but uncommon cause of sunscreen allergy. |
| Photoallergic or photocontact dermatitis | Rare | Reactions triggered or worsened by sun exposure have been reported. |
| Skin irritation, redness, or stinging | Uncommon | Mild transient irritation may occur, particularly on sensitive or broken skin. |
| Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can cause stinging if the product migrates into the eyes. |
| Contact dermatitis / skin irritation | Rare | Occasional reports of mild irritation or redness in sensitive individuals. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis / sensitization | Very rare | Considered to have low allergenic potential; documented cases are uncommon. |
| Stinging or eye irritation | Rare | May occur if product migrates into the eyes, generally formulation-related. |
| Mild transient stinging or irritation | Uncommon | More likely on broken or compromised skin or at high concentrations. |
| Redness or itching | Rare | Typically resolves after discontinuation. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Water Solvent/vehicle | Water is the most common base ingredient in cosmetic formulations, serving as a solvent that dissolves other ingredients and forms the bulk of emulsions and aqueous solutions. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. |
| Octyl Methoxycinnamate Key active UV filter (sunscreen) | Octyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) is a widely used organic UVB filter that absorbs ultraviolet radiation to protect skin from sunburn and photodamage. It is commonly incorporated into sunscreens and daily-care products with SPF claims. |
| Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane Key active UV filter (UVA sunscreen) | Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, also known as avobenzone, is a widely used organic sunscreen agent that absorbs UVA radiation. It is often combined with photostabilizers and other UV filters because it can degrade with sun exposure. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone Key active UVB filter (sunscreen agent) | Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone (Iscotrizinol, Uvasorb HEB) is an organic, oil-soluble UVB filter that absorbs ultraviolet radiation primarily in the UVB range, providing photoprotection in sunscreen and daily-care formulations. It is highly photostable and substantive to skin, often combined with other filters for broad-spectrum coverage. |
| Phospholipids Emollient / skin-conditioning agent and liposome-forming emulsifier | Phospholipids are amphiphilic lipids (commonly derived from soy or egg lecithin) used in skincare to form liposomes, stabilize emulsions, and reinforce the skin barrier. They also enhance penetration and delivery of other actives. |
| 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. |
| Glycereth-26 Humectant/emollient | Glycereth-26 is a polyethylene glycol ether of glycerin used in skincare and cosmetic formulations as a water-soluble humectant and emollient. It helps attract and retain moisture, solubilize ingredients, and improve product texture. |
| Undecane Emollient / solvent | Undecane is a lightweight branched or linear hydrocarbon (C11 alkane) used in cosmetic formulations as a volatile emollient and solvent, often paired with tridecane to replace silicones and provide spreadability and a smooth skin feel. It functions as a base/carrier ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Tridecane Emollient/solvent | Tridecane is a hydrocarbon (alkane) used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient, solvent, and texture-enhancing agent that improves spreadability and provides a smooth skin feel. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a lightweight emollient derived from coconut or palm oil and glycerin, used to soften skin, improve spreadability, and act as a solvent for oil-soluble ingredients. It is well-tolerated and serves primarily as a base ingredient rather than an 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%. |
| Sodium Polyacrylate Thickener / absorbent | Sodium polyacrylate is a superabsorbent acrylic-acid polymer used in skincare as a thickening, stabilizing, and water-binding agent that can hold large amounts of liquid to create gel-like textures. It functions as a formulation and texture-enhancing ingredient rather than a biologically active treatment. |
| Glyceryl Stearate Emulsifier/emollient | Glyceryl Stearate is a glycerol ester of stearic acid widely used as a non-ionic emulsifier and emollient to stabilize oil-in-water formulations and improve skin feel. It functions as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| PEG-100 Stearate Emulsifier/surfactant | PEG-100 Stearate is a polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid used as a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier to stabilize oil-in-water formulations and improve skin feel. It functions as a formulation base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Centella Asiatica Extract Key active Soothing/antioxidant active | Centella Asiatica Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic and madecassic acids) used to calm inflammation, support wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier. It is also valued for antioxidant and collagen-supporting properties in topical formulations. |
| Alpha-Arbutin Key active Skin-brightening agent | Alpha arbutin is a naturally derived hydroquinone derivative that inhibits tyrosinase, reducing melanin production. It is used to address hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Phoenix Dactylifera Extract Key active Antioxidant / skin-conditioning | Phoenix Dactylifera (date palm) Extract is derived from date fruit or seeds and is used in cosmetics for its antioxidant, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning properties, owing to its content of polyphenols, flavonoids, sugars, and vitamins. It is generally considered well tolerated in topical formulations. |
| Allantoin Key active Soothing/skin-conditioning agent | Allantoin is a naturally derived or synthetically produced compound used in skincare for its soothing, moisturizing, and keratolytic (skin-softening) properties. It promotes cell proliferation and helps calm irritation, commonly appearing in creams, lotions, and after-sun products. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Alcohol Solvent / penetration enhancer | Alcohol (typically ethanol or denatured alcohol) is used in skincare as a solvent, antimicrobial agent, and to improve product spreadability and rapid drying. It also enhances penetration of other ingredients and gives a lightweight feel to formulations. |
| Achyrocline Satureioides Flower Extract Key active Antioxidant / anti-inflammatory botanical extract | Achyrocline satureioides flower extract is derived from a South American plant rich in flavonoids (notably quercetin and related compounds) and is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. It is typically incorporated as a botanical active to help protect against oxidative stress and calm irritation. |
| Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract Key active Soothing/anti-inflammatory botanical extract | Plantago Lanceolata (ribwort plantain) leaf extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and mild antimicrobial properties, attributed to compounds like aucubin, allantoin, and tannins. It is commonly included to calm irritated or sensitive skin. |
| 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. |
| Fabiana Imbricata Leaf/Stem Extract Key active Antioxidant / botanical extract | Fabiana Imbricata (pichi) leaf/stem extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare primarily for its antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties, attributed to its polyphenol and flavonoid content. It is typically included to help protect skin against oxidative stress and support overall skin tone. |
| Verbascum Thapsus Extract Soothing/anti-inflammatory botanical | Verbascum Thapsus (mullein) extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its soothing, emollient, and antioxidant properties, attributed to flavonoids, saponins, and mucilage. It is typically included to help calm irritation and provide a softening effect on the skin. |
| Linum Usitatissimum Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Linum Usitatissimum (flaxseed/linseed) Seed Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) and other fatty acids, used in skincare as an emollient and to support the skin barrier. It can help reduce transepidermal water loss and improve skin smoothness and softness. |
| Elaeis Guineensis Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Elaeis Guineensis (palm) oil is a plant-derived lipid used as an emollient and occlusive in skincare to soften skin and reinforce the skin barrier. It is rich in palmitic and oleic fatty acids and naturally contains tocopherols and carotenoids. |
| Aminopropanediol pH adjuster / buffering agent | Aminopropanediol is an amino alcohol used primarily to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations and as a neutralizing agent for acidic ingredients. It functions as a formulation aid rather than as a skin-active treatment ingredient. |
| Ethyl Ascorbic Acid Key active Antioxidant / Vitamin C derivative | 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a stable, water-soluble vitamin C derivative used in skincare for antioxidant protection, brightening, and support of collagen synthesis. It converts to ascorbic acid in the skin and is valued for its greater stability compared to pure L-ascorbic acid. |
| Squalane Emollient / occlusive moisturizer | Squalane is a saturated, stable hydrocarbon derived from squalene (sourced from plants like olives or sugarcane, or shark liver) used as a lightweight emollient that softens skin and reinforces the skin barrier by reducing transepidermal water loss. It is well tolerated, non-comedogenic for most users, and serves as a base or carrier ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
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.