Below is every ingredient in Matra Rice Ceramide Serum 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.
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%.
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.
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.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in gingerols and shogaols, valued in skincare for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to help soothe skin, neutralize free radicals, and support a more even-toned, calmer complexion.
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract is derived from the turmeric plant and contains curcuminoids valued for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening properties. It is used topically to help reduce oxidative stress, soothe irritation, and improve uneven skin tone.
Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant used in skincare to protect skin and formulations from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and UV exposure. It also functions as a skin-conditioning and emollient agent and can stabilize oils against rancidity.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Irritation or sensitivity | Very rare | Purified water itself is essentially non-irritating; rare reactions relate to impurities or hardness minerals rather than water itself |
| Transepidermal water loss from excess evaporation | Uncommon | Water-heavy products without occlusives may evaporate and contribute to skin dryness in some individuals |
| 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. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Isolated case reports; jojoba-derived ingredients are generally considered low sensitizers. |
| Mild skin irritation or redness | Rare | Occasional sensitivity, more likely in individuals with pre-existing skin barrier compromise. |
| Comedogenicity (clogged pores) | Very rare | Generally regarded as low comedogenic potential, but reactions vary individually. |
| Comedogenicity / pore-clogging | Uncommon | Moderately comedogenic due to high oleic acid content; may aggravate acne in prone individuals. |
| Skin irritation | Rare | Mild redness or stinging, typically in sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Cross-reactivity with latex/banana allergy | Very rare | Linked to latex-fruit syndrome in predisposed individuals. |
| Contact urticaria | Very rare | Reported mainly in those with latex-fruit syndrome cross-reactivity. |
| Mild irritation or stinging | Uncommon | Typically transient, more likely on compromised or sensitive skin. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Water/Aqua/Eau Solvent/vehicle | Water is the most common base ingredient in skincare formulations, serving as a solvent for water-soluble actives and as the continuous phase in emulsions. It is considered inert and non-active, providing hydration to the formula rather than direct therapeutic effect. |
| 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. |
| Jojoba Esters Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Jojoba Esters are wax esters derived from jojoba oil, used in skincare to soften skin, reduce moisture loss, and improve product texture and spreadability. They are valued for their stability and skin-compatible, non-greasy emollient properties. |
| Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil is a fatty oil expressed from avocado fruit, rich in oleic acid, palmitic acid, and unsaponifiables. It is used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive agent to soften skin, reduce moisture loss, and improve product spreadability. |
| Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract Emollient / skin-conditioning antioxidant | Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract is a lipid- and antioxidant-rich botanical extract used to moisturize, soften, and condition the skin. It contains fatty acids, vitamins (A, D, E), and sterols that support the skin barrier and provide mild antioxidant effects. |
| 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%. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Hydrolyzed Rice Protein Conditioning agent / film-former | Hydrolyzed rice protein is a water-soluble blend of amino acids and peptides derived from rice, used in skincare and haircare to provide moisturizing, conditioning, and film-forming benefits that improve surface smoothness and hydration. It is primarily a cosmetic functional ingredient rather than a clinically active treatment. |
| 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. |
| Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil Emollient / antioxidant | Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in fatty acids, vitamin E (tocopherols/tocotrienols), and oryzanol, used in skincare as an emollient, skin-conditioning agent, and antioxidant. It helps soften skin and support the barrier while providing mild protection against oxidative stress. |
| 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. |
| Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract Key active Antioxidant / anti-inflammatory botanical extract | Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in gingerols and shogaols, valued in skincare for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to help soothe skin, neutralize free radicals, and support a more even-toned, calmer complexion. |
| Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract Key active Antioxidant/anti-inflammatory | Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract is derived from the turmeric plant and contains curcuminoids valued for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening properties. It is used topically to help reduce oxidative stress, soothe irritation, and improve uneven skin tone. |
| Tocopherol Key active Antioxidant | Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant used in skincare to protect skin and formulations from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and UV exposure. It also functions as a skin-conditioning and emollient agent and can stabilize oils against rancidity. |
| Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8 Key active Anti-inflammatory peptide | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8 is a synthetic biomimetic peptide (lipidated tripeptide) marketed to modulate inflammatory mediators and help calm reactive or sensitized skin. It is used in formulations targeting redness and skin barrier soothing. |
| Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract Key active Antioxidant | Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract is derived from grapes and is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and resveratrol, providing antioxidant activity that helps protect skin from free radical damage. It is used in skincare for its protective and conditioning properties. |
| Potassium Palmitoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Mild surfactant / cleansing agent | Potassium Palmitoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein is a fatty-acid-modified wheat-derived protein used primarily as a gentle, amino-acid-based surfactant and conditioning agent in cleansers and shampoos. It cleanses while helping to reduce irritation and maintain skin and hair moisture compared with harsher detergents. |
| Boswellia Serrata Extract Key active Anti-inflammatory / soothing botanical | Boswellia Serrata Extract is derived from frankincense resin and contains boswellic acids that inhibit inflammatory pathways (notably 5-lipoxygenase). In topical skincare it is used to calm redness, soothe irritation, and support skin barrier comfort. |
| Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract Skin-conditioning / natural preservative-booster | Populus Tremuloides (quaking aspen) bark extract is rich in salicylates and is used in cosmetics for its conditioning, soothing, and mild antimicrobial properties, often as part of natural preservative systems. It can also function as a gentle exfoliant due to its naturally occurring salicin content. |
| 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. |
| Sodium Phytate Chelating agent | Sodium Phytate is the sodium salt of phytic acid used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a chelating agent to bind metal ions, improving product stability and preventing oxidation. It can also offer mild antioxidant support and is often included at low concentrations. |
| 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. |
| Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract Antioxidant/Skin-conditioning | Melia Azadirachta (neem) Flower Extract is a botanical derived from neem tree flowers used in skincare for its antioxidant, soothing, and skin-conditioning properties. It is often included in Ayurvedic-inspired formulations for its purported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. |
| Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract Key active Soothing/antimicrobial botanical extract | Melia Azadirachta (neem) Leaf Extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, often used in skincare for soothing and conditioning effects. It contains bioactive compounds such as nimbidin and flavonoids. |
| Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract Key active Antioxidant/anti-inflammatory botanical extract | Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil/Tulsi) leaf extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, attributed to compounds such as eugenol, ursolic acid, and rosmarinic acid. It is used in skincare to help soothe skin, reduce oxidative stress, and address blemish-prone skin. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract Antioxidant/botanical extract | Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols and essential oil compounds, used in skincare for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It is also sometimes included as a fragrance or conditioning component. |
| Elettaria Cardamomum Seed Extract Antioxidant/fragrance | Elettaria Cardamomum (cardamom) seed extract is a botanical derived from cardamom seeds, used in skincare for its aromatic and antioxidant properties owing to its essential oil and polyphenol content. It is most often included as a fragrance or conditioning agent rather than a clinically proven treatment active. |
| Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower/Leaf Extract Fragrance/skin-conditioning botanical extract | Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower/Leaf Extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare primarily for its aromatic and skin-conditioning properties, and it is sometimes promoted for antioxidant or soothing benefits. It functions as a natural fragrance and conditioning agent rather than a clinically validated treatment active. |
| Corallina Officinalis Extract Antioxidant / mineral-rich conditioning agent | Corallina Officinalis Extract is derived from a red coralline algae and is used in skincare for its mineral content (calcium, magnesium) and antioxidant properties, often as a conditioning and soothing agent. It is valued for hydrating and protective effects in cosmetic formulations. |
| Sodium Carbonate pH adjuster / buffering agent | Sodium carbonate is an alkaline inorganic salt used in skincare primarily to raise and stabilize formulation pH. It functions as a pH adjuster and buffering agent rather than as a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Cananga Odorata Flower Extract Fragrance/Botanical extract | Cananga Odorata Flower Extract, derived from the ylang-ylang tree, is used in skincare primarily as a fragrance and aromatic agent, with some claimed antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties. It is most commonly added for scent rather than as a therapeutic 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. |
| Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract Emollient/Antioxidant | Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract is derived from melon fruit and used in skincare for its hydrating, soothing, and antioxidant properties, owing to vitamins, amino acids, and natural sugars. It is generally used as a conditioning and skin-protective additive rather than a clinically validated active. |
| Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract Soothing / hydrating botanical extract | Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its hydrating, soothing, and mild antioxidant properties. It is commonly used in moisturizers, masks, and after-sun products to help calm and refresh the skin. |
| Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract Antioxidant/skin-conditioning | Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract is derived from apple fruit and is used in skincare for its antioxidant, humectant, and mild conditioning properties, often providing polyphenols, sugars, and natural acids. It is generally considered a gentle, supportive ingredient rather than a primary clinical active. |
| Rosa Extract Antioxidant/soothing botanical extract | Rosa Extract (derived from rose flowers, hips, or petals) is a botanical ingredient valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning properties, often used to soothe and hydrate skin. It contains polyphenols, vitamin C, and aromatic compounds that may support skin tone and barrier function. |
| Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Leaf Extract Key active Antioxidant / soothing botanical | Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Leaf Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins used in skincare for its antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties. It is commonly added to soothe and protect skin, though robust clinical evidence for cosmetic efficacy is limited. |
| Ascorbyl Palmitate Key active Antioxidant / Vitamin C derivative | Ascorbyl palmitate is a lipid-soluble, more stable ester of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) used as an antioxidant in skincare formulations. It can help protect formulas from oxidation and may offer some skin antioxidant benefits, though its conversion to active ascorbic acid in skin is limited. |
| Dextran Polysaccharide film-former / humectant | Dextran is a branched glucose polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation, used in skincare as a hydrating film-forming agent and stabilizer that can improve texture and aid in carrying other ingredients. It is generally considered well tolerated and biocompatible. |
| 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. |
| Xanthan Gum Thickener/stabilizer | Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation, used in skincare as a thickening, gelling, and emulsion-stabilizing agent. It improves product texture and suspension of ingredients without contributing active treatment effects. |
| 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. |
| Carbomer Thickener / gelling agent | Carbomer is a synthetic high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid used to thicken, stabilize, and control the viscosity of gels, creams, and lotions. It functions as a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Cetearyl Olivate Emulsifier / emollient | Cetearyl Olivate is an olive oil-derived emulsifier and emollient, typically used with Sorbitan Olivate, that helps blend oil and water phases while conditioning and softening the skin. It supports the skin barrier and gives formulations a light, non-greasy feel. |
| Sorbitan Olivate Emulsifier | Sorbitan Olivate is an olive-derived ester of sorbitol and olive oil fatty acids used as a non-ionic emulsifier and emollient. It is often paired with Cetearyl Olivate (as Olivem 1000) to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and impart a soft skin feel. |
| 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. |
| Caprylyl Glycol Humectant / skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster | Caprylyl glycol is a multifunctional emollient and humectant derived from caprylic acid that helps hydrate skin and enhance the efficacy of preservatives in formulations. It is widely used as a stabilizing and conditioning base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil Emollient/occlusive | Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil is a plant-derived oil chemically saturated through hydrogenation, used in skincare as an emollient, thickener, and occlusive agent to soften skin and stabilize formulations. It forms a protective layer that helps reduce transepidermal water loss. |
| Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract Fragrance/soothing botanical extract | An aromatic plant extract derived from lavender flowers, leaves, and stems, used in skincare for its fragrance and purported soothing and antioxidant properties. It contains volatile compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate. |
| Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Wood Extract Skin conditioning / fragrance / soothing agent | Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Wood Extract is derived from sandalwood and is used in skincare for its aromatic, antioxidant, and soothing properties. It contains santalol compounds that may offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, though it is also a recognized fragrance allergen. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
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.