Below is every ingredient in 0.1% Retinol Serum - 30ml 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.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (octinoxate) is a widely used organic UVB-absorbing sunscreen agent that protects skin from ultraviolet radiation. It is commonly incorporated into sunscreens and daily cosmetics with SPF claims.
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a stable, oil-soluble derivative of vitamin C used as an antioxidant that can be converted to ascorbic acid in the skin, supporting collagen synthesis and helping reduce signs of photoaging and hyperpigmentation. It is favored for its stability and ability to penetrate the skin's lipid barrier compared with pure ascorbic acid.
Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol is a synthetic chroman-derived antioxidant (a vitamin E-related molecule) used in cosmetic formulations to neutralize free radicals and protect skin and product stability against oxidative damage. It is marketed for both lipophilic and hydrophilic environments, offering broad-spectrum protection against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species.
Physalis Angulata Extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning properties, often included to help calm and protect the skin. It contains compounds such as physalins and flavonoids that may help mitigate oxidative stress.
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. |
| Contact irritation or mild stinging | Uncommon | Transient skin irritation, especially on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization reported but relatively infrequent compared with other UV filters. |
| Photoallergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Reaction triggered by combined exposure to the ingredient and sunlight. |
| Potential endocrine/estrogenic activity | Very rare | Suggested by in vitro and animal studies; human relevance at cosmetic exposure levels remains uncertain. |
| Skin irritation | Rare | Generally well tolerated; mild irritation possible in sensitive individuals. |
| Eye irritation | Rare | Possible transient stinging if product enters the eyes. |
| Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Transient stinging or redness, more likely at higher concentrations or on compromised skin. |
| Skin dryness | Uncommon | Its solvent action may contribute to dryness with repeated use in some individuals. |
| Systemic toxicity | Very rare | Of theoretical concern with large-scale ingestion or extreme exposure; not associated with normal topical cosmetic use. |
| 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. |
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. |
| Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate Key active UV filter (UVB sunscreen) | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (octinoxate) is a widely used organic UVB-absorbing sunscreen agent that protects skin from ultraviolet radiation. It is commonly incorporated into sunscreens and daily cosmetics with SPF claims. |
| Diethylhexyl Carbonate Emollient / solvent | Diethylhexyl Carbonate is a lightweight synthetic ester (dialkyl carbonate) used as an emollient and solvent in skincare and cosmetics. It imparts a smooth, dry, non-greasy skin feel and helps dissolve and spread other ingredients such as UV filters and active oils. |
| Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether Solvent / penetration enhancer | Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether (ethoxydiglycol) is a versatile solvent and penetration enhancer used in cosmetic and topical formulations to dissolve active ingredients and improve their absorption into the skin. It also functions as a viscosity reducer and coupling agent in mixed-phase products. |
| 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. |
| Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Key active Antioxidant / Vitamin C derivative | Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a stable, oil-soluble derivative of vitamin C used as an antioxidant that can be converted to ascorbic acid in the skin, supporting collagen synthesis and helping reduce signs of photoaging and hyperpigmentation. It is favored for its stability and ability to penetrate the skin's lipid barrier compared with pure ascorbic acid. |
| Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol Key active Antioxidant | Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol is a synthetic chroman-derived antioxidant (a vitamin E-related molecule) used in cosmetic formulations to neutralize free radicals and protect skin and product stability against oxidative damage. It is marketed for both lipophilic and hydrophilic environments, offering broad-spectrum protection against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. |
| Physalis Angulata Extract Key active Antioxidant/soothing botanical extract | Physalis Angulata Extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning properties, often included to help calm and protect the skin. It contains compounds such as physalins and flavonoids that may help mitigate oxidative stress. |
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.