Below is every ingredient in Conscious Chemist Multi Peptide Retinol Anti Ageing Night Cream 20 Gm 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.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (licorice) Root Extract is a botanical ingredient containing glycyrrhizin and glabridin, valued for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. It is commonly used to calm irritation, reduce redness, and help fade hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase activity.
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.
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that converts to retinoic acid in the skin, promoting cell turnover and stimulating collagen synthesis. It is widely used to address fine lines, photoaging, and acne.
SH-Oligopeptide-1 is a synthetic version of human epidermal growth factor (EGF) used in skincare to support cell proliferation, wound healing, and signs of skin repair and rejuvenation. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and post-procedure formulations at low concentrations.
SH-Oligopeptide-2 is a synthetic peptide corresponding to insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), used in cosmetic formulations to support cell proliferation, skin repair, and anti-aging effects. It is typically incorporated into serums and creams aimed at improving skin texture and firmness.
SH-Polypeptide-1 is a synthetic or recombinant form of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF/FGF-2) used in skincare to stimulate fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and skin repair. It is typically included in anti-aging and wound-healing formulations to support dermal regeneration.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Irritation or sensitivity | Very rare | Purified water itself is essentially inert; rare reactions are attributable to contaminants or accompanying ingredients rather than water. |
| Transepidermal water loss aggravation in compromised skin | Rare | Evaporation of water from products may transiently increase dryness in very compromised skin barriers if occlusives are absent. |
| Mild skin irritation or stinging | Common | More likely at higher concentrations or on compromised/sensitive skin |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Recognized contact allergen; confirmed via patch testing |
| Irritant contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Non-allergic irritation, often dose-dependent |
| Worsening of pre-existing eczema or barrier-impaired skin | Rare | Penetration-enhancing effect may increase reactivity |
| Systemic toxicity from topical use | Very rare | Reported mainly with extensive application on broken skin, especially in infants or burn patients |
| Comedogenicity (acne/clogged pores) | Common | Considered a moderately to highly comedogenic ingredient; may worsen acne or cause breakouts in acne-prone individuals. |
| Skin irritation | Uncommon | Mild irritation or stinging reported, particularly on compromised or sensitive skin. |
| Folliculitis | Rare | Follicular irritation linked to its occlusive and pore-clogging tendency. |
| Irritation or contact dermatitis | Rare | Generally well tolerated; occasional mild irritation reported in sensitive individuals. |
| Comedogenicity (pore clogging) | Uncommon | May contribute to breakouts in acne-prone skin depending on formulation concentration. |
| Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional transient redness or stinging, mainly in sensitive skin. |
| Comedogenicity / clogged pores | Rare | Low comedogenic potential, but possible in acne-prone individuals. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| 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. |
| Propylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Propylene glycol is a small glycol molecule widely used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer that helps attract water and dissolve other ingredients. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Isopropyl Myristate Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Isopropyl myristate is a synthetic ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid used as an emollient, thickening reducer, and penetration enhancer in cosmetic and topical formulations. It imparts a smooth, non-greasy feel and improves spreadability of products. |
| Glyceryl Monostearate Emulsifier / emollient | Glyceryl monostearate is a non-ionic emulsifier and thickening agent widely used in creams and lotions to blend oil and water phases and improve texture. It also provides mild skin-conditioning and emollient properties. |
| 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. |
| Cetostearyl Alcohol Emollient / emulsifier | Cetostearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols used to thicken formulations, stabilize emulsions, and soften the skin. It functions as a non-active base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Cocos Nucifera Oil Emollient/occlusive | Cocos Nucifera (coconut) Oil is a plant-derived fatty oil used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive agent to soften skin and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is rich in saturated fatty acids, predominantly lauric acid. |
| Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer Rheology modifier / thickener | A synthetic acrylate-based crosspolymer used to thicken, stabilize, and improve the texture of aqueous and emulsion cosmetic formulations. It functions as a gelling and emulsifying agent rather than a treatment active. |
| Hydrogenated Polydecene Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Hydrogenated Polydecene is a synthetic hydrocarbon emollient derived from hydrogenated polydecene oligomers, used to provide a lightweight, non-greasy occlusive film that softens skin and improves spreadability in cosmetic formulations. It serves as a base or texture-enhancing ingredient rather than a biologically active treatment. |
| Lauryl Glucoside Surfactant/cleansing agent | Lauryl Glucoside is a non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut/palm fatty alcohols and glucose, used as a mild cleansing and foaming agent in skin and hair care products. It is considered gentle and biodegradable, often replacing harsher anionic surfactants. |
| 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. |
| Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is a plant-derived emollient rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E, used to soften skin and support the skin barrier. It is widely used as a base oil in moisturizers and cosmetic formulations. |
| 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. |
| Glycerol Monooleate Emollient/emulsifier | Glycerol monooleate (glyceryl monooleate) is a monoglyceride of oleic acid used in skincare as an emollient, emulsifier, and penetration enhancer that helps stabilize formulations and improve skin feel. It also forms liquid-crystalline structures useful in delivery systems. |
| Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Key active Soothing / brightening agent | Glycyrrhiza Glabra (licorice) Root Extract is a botanical ingredient containing glycyrrhizin and glabridin, valued for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. It is commonly used to calm irritation, reduce redness, and help fade hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase activity. |
| 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. |
| Mauritia Flexuosa Fruit Oil Emollient / antioxidant | Mauritia Flexuosa Fruit Oil (buriti oil) is a carotenoid- and fatty-acid-rich plant oil derived from the Amazonian moriche palm fruit, used in skincare as an emollient, conditioning agent, and source of antioxidants. It is valued for its high oleic acid and provitamin A (beta-carotene) content, which contribute to skin softening and barrier support. |
| Retinol Key active Vitamin A derivative / anti-aging active | Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that converts to retinoic acid in the skin, promoting cell turnover and stimulating collagen synthesis. It is widely used to address fine lines, photoaging, and acne. |
| Polysorbate 20 Emulsifier / solubilizer | Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and lauric acid, used in skincare to solubilize fragrances and essential oils and to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions. It functions primarily as a formulation aid rather than a treatment active. |
| Butylated Hydroxy Anisole Antioxidant/preservative | Butylated Hydroxy Anisole (BHA) is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant added to cosmetics and personal care products to prevent oxidative degradation of fats, oils, and other susceptible ingredients, thereby extending shelf life. It functions as a stabilizing formulation aid rather than a skin-treating active. |
| Lecithin Emollient / Emulsifier | Lecithin is a naturally occurring phospholipid (commonly derived from soybean or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and penetration enhancer. It helps stabilize oil-and-water formulations and supports the skin barrier by mimicking natural lipids. |
| Acetyl Glutamine Humectant / amino acid derivative | Acetyl Glutamine is an acetylated form of the amino acid glutamine used in skincare as a humectant and conditioning agent. It helps support skin hydration and the skin barrier, and is generally considered a mild, well-tolerated ingredient. |
| SH-Oligopeptide-1 Key active Growth factor / cell-signaling peptide | SH-Oligopeptide-1 is a synthetic version of human epidermal growth factor (EGF) used in skincare to support cell proliferation, wound healing, and signs of skin repair and rejuvenation. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and post-procedure formulations at low concentrations. |
| SH-Oligopeptide-2 Key active Cell-communicating peptide / signaling growth factor analog | SH-Oligopeptide-2 is a synthetic peptide corresponding to insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), used in cosmetic formulations to support cell proliferation, skin repair, and anti-aging effects. It is typically incorporated into serums and creams aimed at improving skin texture and firmness. |
| SH-Polypeptide-1 Key active Growth factor (signaling peptide) | SH-Polypeptide-1 is a synthetic or recombinant form of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF/FGF-2) used in skincare to stimulate fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and skin repair. It is typically included in anti-aging and wound-healing formulations to support dermal regeneration. |
| SH-Polypeptide-9 Key active Growth factor / signaling peptide | SH-Polypeptide-9 is a synthetic form of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) used in cosmetics to support skin repair, angiogenesis-related processes, and overall skin rejuvenation. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and recovery formulations to promote tissue regeneration. |
| SH-Polypeptide-11 Key active Bioactive peptide / cell-signaling agent | SH-Polypeptide-11 is a synthetic recombinant growth factor peptide (related to vascular endothelial growth factor signaling) used in cosmetic formulations to support skin renewal, repair, and microcirculation. It is included in anti-aging and skin-conditioning products for its proposed role in stimulating cellular activity and barrier recovery. |
| Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract Key active Skin conditioning / moisturizing humectant | Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract is a fermentation-derived ingredient produced by culturing soybeans with Bacillus species, yielding peptides, amino acids, and polysaccharides (including polyglutamic acid). It is used in skincare primarily for its hydrating, conditioning, and skin-soothing properties. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Hexapeptide-11 Key active Anti-aging peptide | Hexapeptide-11 is a yeast-derived peptide marketed to support skin elasticity, hydration, and to reduce visible signs of aging and cellular senescence. It is typically used in serums and creams as a conditioning active. |
| Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate Natural preservative | Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate is a fermentation-derived ingredient produced by culturing Leuconostoc bacteria on radish roots, yielding antimicrobial peptides used as a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives. It helps protect water-based cosmetic formulations from microbial growth while sometimes contributing mild conditioning properties. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Adansonia Digitata Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Adansonia Digitata (baobab) seed oil is a plant-derived emollient rich in fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, palmitic) and tocopherols, used to soften skin, support the skin barrier, and provide occlusive moisture. It functions primarily as a base/carrier oil rather than a targeted treatment active. |
| Caffeine Key active Antioxidant / vasoconstrictor | Caffeine is a topical active used in skincare for its antioxidant properties and ability to constrict blood vessels, which may temporarily reduce puffiness and the appearance of under-eye darkness. It is also studied for reducing localized fluid retention and protecting against UV-induced oxidative stress. |
| Butylated Hydroxytoluene Antioxidant/preservative | Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant used in cosmetic formulations to prevent oxidation and rancidity of oils and fats, helping maintain product stability and shelf life. It functions as a stabilizer rather than a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Sclerocarya birrea (marula) seed oil is a plant-derived lipid rich in oleic acid and antioxidants, used to soften, moisturize, and improve the feel of skin in cosmetic formulations. It functions primarily as an occlusive and emollient base ingredient rather than a targeted therapeutic active. |
| Ubiquinone Key active Antioxidant | Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10) is a fat-soluble, naturally occurring antioxidant used in skincare to neutralize free radicals and support cellular energy production. It is commonly included in anti-aging formulations to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and oxidative skin damage. |
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.