Below is every ingredient in Mirabelle Korea Cica Pep Intensive Sunscreen 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.
Centella Asiatica Leaf Water is a water-based extract of the gotu kola plant valued for its soothing, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning properties attributed to triterpenoid compounds like madecassoside and asiaticoside. It is commonly used to calm irritation and support skin barrier function in topical formulations.
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.
Totarol is a plant-derived diterpenoid (from Podocarpus trees) used in skincare for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, often included in formulations targeting acne-causing bacteria. It is valued as a natural preservative-booster and active ingredient against gram-positive bacteria.
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.
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (also known as Argireline or acetyl hexapeptide-3) is a synthetic peptide that mimics the N-terminal end of SNAP-25, mildly inhibiting neurotransmitter release to reduce the appearance of expression lines. It is marketed as a topical alternative to injectable neuromodulators, though its effects are subtler.
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl, pal-KTTKS) is a lipidated peptide that signals fibroblasts to increase production of collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix components. It is used in topical formulations to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin firmness.
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. |
| 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. |
| Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Transient redness or stinging, more likely on compromised or sensitive skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization to glycols is infrequently reported in patch-test studies. |
| Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can occur with direct contact in eye-area products. |
| Mild transient skin irritation | Rare | Occasional redness or stinging, typically in sensitive skin |
| Contact allergic dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization to Centella triterpenes can cause localized redness or itching in predisposed individuals. |
| Mild stinging or transient irritation | Uncommon | Usually associated with sensitive or compromised skin rather than the extract itself. |
| Contact urticaria | Very rare | Isolated case reports of hive-like reactions. |
| Skin dryness | Common | High concentrations can strip natural oils and disrupt the skin barrier with repeated use. |
| Irritation or stinging | Common | More likely on compromised, sensitive, or already dry skin. |
| Barrier impairment | Uncommon | Frequent exposure may reduce barrier function and increase transepidermal water loss. |
| Contact dermatitis | Rare | Irritant or, less often, allergic reactions reported in susceptible individuals. |
| Worsening of conditions like eczema or rosacea | Uncommon | Can aggravate inflammatory or reactive skin types. |
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. |
| 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. |
| Dipropylene Glycol Solvent/humectant | Dipropylene glycol is a clear, low-viscosity glycol used in cosmetics primarily as a solvent, humectant, and viscosity-reducing agent. It helps dissolve fragrances and other ingredients while contributing mild moisture-retention properties. |
| Erythritol Humectant | Erythritol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used in skincare as a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. It also imparts a mild cooling sensation and can enhance the texture and stability of formulations. |
| Centella Asiatica Leaf Water Key active Soothing/antioxidant botanical | Centella Asiatica Leaf Water is a water-based extract of the gotu kola plant valued for its soothing, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning properties attributed to triterpenoid compounds like madecassoside and asiaticoside. It is commonly used to calm irritation and support skin barrier function in topical formulations. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Solubilizer/emulsifier | PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a nonionic surfactant derived from hydrogenated castor oil reacted with ethylene oxide, widely used to solubilize fragrances, oils, and lipophilic actives into water-based cosmetic formulations. It functions as a base/formulation aid rather than a treatment active. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil is a highly stable, long-chain fatty acid-rich plant oil used as an emollient and occlusive in skincare. It helps soften skin, reduce moisture loss, and improve product spreadability and oxidative stability. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate Emulsifier | Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate is a non-ionic, plant-derived emulsifier composed of glycerin, glucose and stearic acid, used to create stable oil-in-water emulsions in creams and lotions. It is valued for its mildness and skin compatibility, often used in natural and sensitive-skin formulations. |
| Hydrogenated Lecithin Emollient / Emulsifier | Hydrogenated lecithin is a phospholipid derived from lecithin through hydrogenation, used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and skin-conditioning agent. It also helps stabilize formulations and form liposomes that can aid delivery of other ingredients. |
| Totarol Key active Antimicrobial antioxidant | Totarol is a plant-derived diterpenoid (from Podocarpus trees) used in skincare for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, often included in formulations targeting acne-causing bacteria. It is valued as a natural preservative-booster and active ingredient against gram-positive bacteria. |
| 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. |
| Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate Emulsifier / emollient | Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate is a glucose-derived nonionic emulsifier used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and impart a smooth, conditioning skin feel. It is considered mild and is widely used as a formulation base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Cetearyl Glucoside Emulsifier | Cetearyl Glucoside is a plant-derived (glucose and fatty alcohol) nonionic emulsifier used to blend oil and water phases and stabilize creams and lotions. It is valued for being mild and well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations. |
| 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. |
| Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 Key active Anti-wrinkle peptide | Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (also known as Argireline or acetyl hexapeptide-3) is a synthetic peptide that mimics the N-terminal end of SNAP-25, mildly inhibiting neurotransmitter release to reduce the appearance of expression lines. It is marketed as a topical alternative to injectable neuromodulators, though its effects are subtler. |
| Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 Key active Anti-aging signal peptide | Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl, pal-KTTKS) is a lipidated peptide that signals fibroblasts to increase production of collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix components. It is used in topical formulations to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin firmness. |
| Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 Key active Anti-aging peptide | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 is a synthetic collagen-stimulating peptide that mimics the action of TGF-beta to support dermal collagen synthesis. It is used in topical formulations to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin firmness. |
| Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 Key active Signal peptide / anti-aging active | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is a synthetic palmitoylated peptide (sequence Gly-His-Lys) used in cosmetics to signal fibroblasts and support collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis. It is commonly combined with other peptides in anti-aging and firming formulations. |
| Copper Tripeptide-1 Key active Signal peptide / skin-conditioning agent | Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) is a copper-bound peptide used in skincare for its reported ability to support collagen and elastin synthesis, wound healing, and antioxidant activity. It is considered a bioactive cosmetic ingredient targeting signs of skin aging. |
| Carnosine Key active Antioxidant / anti-glycation agent | Carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide (beta-alanine and L-histidine) used in skincare for its antioxidant and anti-glycation properties, helping protect against oxidative stress and protein cross-linking associated with skin aging. It is typically incorporated into serums and creams at low concentrations as a supporting active. |
| Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9 Key active Skin-conditioning peptide | Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9 is a synthetic signal peptide marketed to stimulate dermal extracellular matrix components such as collagen and lumican, with the aim of improving skin firmness and density. Evidence is largely from manufacturer studies, and it is typically used at low concentrations in anti-aging formulations. |
| Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5 Key active Anti-edema / anti-puffiness peptide | Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5 is a synthetic peptide used in cosmetics primarily to reduce periorbital puffiness and improve skin elasticity by inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and reducing fluid accumulation and glycation. It is commonly found in eye creams and anti-aging formulations. |
| Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 Key active Hair/peptide signaling agent | Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 is a synthetic biomimetic peptide used in cosmetic formulations, often marketed to support hair anchoring, follicle health, and extracellular matrix proteins. It is also included in some skincare products for its purported effects on dermal matrix and skin firmness. |
| Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 Key active Anti-aging peptide | Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 is a synthetic signal peptide used in cosmetic formulations to support skin firmness and elasticity, with claimed effects on collagen and thymic-related skin renewal. It is typically included at low concentrations in serums and creams targeting signs of aging. |
| Acetyl Octapeptide-3 Key active Anti-wrinkle peptide | Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (SNAP-8) is a synthetic peptide used in topical cosmetics to reduce the appearance of expression lines by modulating neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. It is marketed as a topical alternative to injectable muscle-relaxing treatments. |
| Nonapeptide-1 Key active Skin-brightening peptide | Nonapeptide-1 is a synthetic oligopeptide that acts as an alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) antagonist, inhibiting melanin production by blocking the MC1 receptor on melanocytes. It is used in topical formulations aimed at reducing hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone. |
| Fragrance Fragrance/masking agent | Fragrance refers to a blend of natural or synthetic aromatic compounds added to skincare products to impart a pleasant scent or mask the odor of other ingredients. It serves a sensory and formulation purpose rather than a therapeutic one. |
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.