Below is every ingredient in La Mer The Moisturizing Fresh Cream 15 Ml 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.
Yeast extract is a biologically active ingredient derived from yeast cells (commonly Saccharomyces), rich in amino acids, peptides, beta-glucans, vitamins, and minerals. It is used in skincare for its soothing, hydrating, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning properties, and may support barrier function and the appearance of skin.
Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its content of vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidant compounds, primarily serving as a skin-conditioning and soothing agent. It is most often found in masks, exfoliating, and botanical-based formulations.
Copper gluconate is a copper salt of gluconic acid used in skincare as a source of copper, supporting antioxidant defense and enzymatic processes involved in collagen and elastin synthesis. It is often included in anti-aging and wound-supportive formulations.
Zinc gluconate is a zinc salt of gluconic acid used topically and orally for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and sebum-regulating properties, often in acne and oily-skin formulations. It supplies bioavailable zinc that supports skin barrier function and wound healing.
Tocopheryl Succinate is a stable ester form of vitamin E (tocopherol) used in skincare for its antioxidant properties, helping protect skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage. It is converted to active tocopherol upon skin penetration, though its conversion efficiency in topical applications is debated.
Niacin is a form of vitamin B3 that supports cellular energy metabolism and skin barrier function; in topical skincare it is often used interchangeably with or converted to niacinamide. It may improve skin hydration and tone when formulated appropriately.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild skin irritation or redness | Rare | Generally considered non-irritating; occasional mild reactions reported. |
| Clogged pores / comedogenic-related breakouts | Uncommon | Often anecdotal; dimethicone is largely regarded as non-comedogenic but may trap debris if skin is not cleansed well. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | True silicone allergy is exceptionally uncommon. |
| Eye irritation on accidental contact | Rare | Transient stinging or discomfort if product enters the eyes. |
| Iodine-related concerns | Rare | Some algae contain iodine, a theoretical concern for those with thyroid sensitivity, though topical absorption is generally low. |
| Acneiform breakouts | Rare | Possible in acne-prone individuals depending on formulation and concentration. |
| 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 or stinging | Uncommon | Transient redness or tingling possible, especially on sensitive skin. |
| Flare in individuals with yeast sensitivity | Rare | Those with known yeast hypersensitivity may react to topical exposure. |
| Acneiform or follicular reactions | Very rare | Rarely reported; relationship to ingredient unclear and formulation-dependent. |
| Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional reports, typically in sensitive individuals or with occlusive formulations. |
| Contact dermatitis / allergic sensitization | Very rare | Silicones are generally considered low-allergen; documented allergy is uncommon. |
| Eye irritation | Rare | Possible stinging or irritation on direct ocular contact. |
| Acne or pore congestion | Rare | Generally non-comedogenic, but anecdotal breakouts reported in acne-prone users. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| 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. |
| Algae Extract Emollient/conditioning agent (humectant, antioxidant) | Algae extract is a marine-derived ingredient rich in polysaccharides, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants used to hydrate, soothe, and condition the skin. It functions primarily as a moisturizing and skin-conditioning agent rather than a clinically proven therapeutic 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. |
| Yeast Extract\Faex\Extrait De Levure Key active Skin conditioning / humectant | Yeast extract is a biologically active ingredient derived from yeast cells (commonly Saccharomyces), rich in amino acids, peptides, beta-glucans, vitamins, and minerals. It is used in skincare for its soothing, hydrating, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning properties, and may support barrier function and the appearance of skin. |
| Trisiloxane Emollient / silicone slip agent | Trisiloxane is a low-molecular-weight silicone used in skincare and cosmetics to impart a smooth, silky feel, enhance spreadability, and provide a non-greasy emollient finish. It functions primarily as a texture-enhancing base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil Emollient / occlusive | Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil is a stable, long-chain fatty acid–rich plant oil used as an emollient and occlusive that conditions skin, reduces moisture loss, and improves the spreadability and oxidative stability of formulations. It is valued for its high resistance to rancidity due to its unusual long-chain fatty acid composition. |
| Alcohol Denat Solvent/penetration enhancer | Alcohol Denat (denatured ethanol) is a volatile solvent used in skincare to dissolve other ingredients, improve product spreadability and absorption, and create a quick-drying, lightweight feel. It is a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate Emollient/skin-conditioning agent | Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate is an ester-based emollient used in cosmetics to provide a smooth, cushiony skin feel and to condition and soften the skin. It functions as a non-occlusive moisturizing and texturizing ingredient commonly found in lipsticks, foundations, and creams. |
| 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. |
| Isopentyldiol Humectant / solvent | Isopentyldiol is a low-molecular-weight diol used in cosmetics as a humectant, solvent, and mild antimicrobial-boosting agent that improves the texture and stability of formulations. It also enhances penetration of other ingredients and contributes a light, non-greasy skin feel. |
| Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer Thickener/stabilizer | Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a synthetic acrylic copolymer used in skincare to thicken, gel, and stabilize emulsions, providing viscosity control and a smooth texture. It functions as a rheology modifier and film former rather than a biologically active treatment ingredient. |
| Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Extract Astringent / fragrance / antioxidant | Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Peel Extract is derived from lime peel and is used in skincare for its astringent, antioxidant, and aromatic properties, often contributing fragrance and skin-conditioning effects. It contains natural compounds such as flavonoids, limonene, and furanocoumarins. |
| Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil is a plant-derived emollient rich in fatty acids (oleic and linoleic acid) and antioxidants like sesamol and sesamin, used to soften skin and reinforce the skin barrier. It is commonly employed as an occlusive and carrier oil in moisturizers, massage oils, and emulsions. |
| Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder Key active Skin conditioning / antioxidant | Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Seed Powder is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its content of vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidant compounds, primarily serving as a skin-conditioning and soothing agent. It is most often found in masks, exfoliating, and botanical-based formulations. |
| Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Cake Exfoliant/absorbent | Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Cake is the powdered residue remaining after oil is expressed from sunflower seeds. It is used in skincare primarily as a natural abrasive in scrubs and as a bulking or absorbent agent. |
| Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Leaf Oil Fragrance/essential oil | Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil is a volatile plant-derived essential oil rich in 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), used in skincare as a fragrance, masking agent, and for its purported antimicrobial and refreshing properties. It is a known source of fragrance allergens and can be irritating, particularly on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Sodium Gluconate Chelating agent / skin-conditioning | Sodium gluconate is the sodium salt of gluconic acid used in skincare primarily as a chelating agent to bind metal ions and stabilize formulations, with secondary humectant and skin-conditioning properties. It is generally considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Copper Gluconate Key active Skin-conditioning / antioxidant trace mineral | Copper gluconate is a copper salt of gluconic acid used in skincare as a source of copper, supporting antioxidant defense and enzymatic processes involved in collagen and elastin synthesis. It is often included in anti-aging and wound-supportive formulations. |
| Calcium Gluconate Buffering/skin-conditioning agent | Calcium gluconate is a calcium salt of gluconic acid used in topical formulations as a source of calcium, a buffering agent, and a skin-conditioning ingredient. It is also notably used medically as an antidote gel for hydrofluoric acid burns. |
| Magnesium Gluconate Mineral salt / skin-conditioning agent | Magnesium gluconate is the magnesium salt of gluconic acid used in skincare as a source of magnesium and as a skin-conditioning and humectant-supporting agent. It can help support skin barrier function and is sometimes included for its mild soothing properties. |
| Zinc Gluconate Key active Sebum regulator / anti-inflammatory | Zinc gluconate is a zinc salt of gluconic acid used topically and orally for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and sebum-regulating properties, often in acne and oily-skin formulations. It supplies bioavailable zinc that supports skin barrier function and wound healing. |
| Tocopheryl Succinate Key active Antioxidant | Tocopheryl Succinate is a stable ester form of vitamin E (tocopherol) used in skincare for its antioxidant properties, helping protect skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage. It is converted to active tocopherol upon skin penetration, though its conversion efficiency in topical applications is debated. |
| Niacin Key active Vitamin B3 (cell-energy/barrier support) | Niacin is a form of vitamin B3 that supports cellular energy metabolism and skin barrier function; in topical skincare it is often used interchangeably with or converted to niacinamide. It may improve skin hydration and tone when formulated appropriately. |
| Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder Exfoliant / absorbent | Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Powder is a finely ground botanical material derived from sesame seeds, used in skincare primarily as a physical exfoliant and texturizing agent in scrubs and cleansing formulations. It can also contribute mild oil-absorbing and bulking properties. |
| Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane Emollient/conditioning agent | Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane is a PEG-modified silane used in skincare and cosmetics primarily as a skin-conditioning agent and emollient that imparts a smooth, silky feel while improving spreadability of formulations. It is water-dispersible and commonly found in moisturizers, serums, and primers as part of the formulation base rather than as a therapeutic active. |
| Lactobacillus Ferment Key active Probiotic-derived skin conditioning/soothing agent | Lactobacillus Ferment is a postbiotic ingredient produced by the fermentation of Lactobacillus bacteria, used in skincare for its soothing, barrier-supporting, and antioxidant properties. It may help balance the skin microbiome and reduce visible signs of irritation. |
| Trametes Versicolor Extract Key active Antioxidant / skin-conditioning agent | Trametes Versicolor (turkey tail mushroom) extract is used in skincare for its polysaccharides (notably beta-glucans and PSK/PSP) and phenolic compounds, which provide antioxidant, soothing, and hydration-supporting properties. It is valued for potential protective effects against oxidative stress and for conditioning the skin barrier. |
| Trehalose Humectant / moisturizer | Trehalose is a naturally occurring disaccharide used in skincare as a humectant and protective agent, helping retain moisture and stabilize cell membranes and proteins against dehydration and oxidative stress. It is well tolerated and commonly used to support skin barrier hydration. |
| 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. |
| Laminaria Saccharina Extract Key active Conditioning/soothing extract | Laminaria Saccharina Extract is a brown seaweed (kelp) derived ingredient rich in polysaccharides, minerals, and trace elements, used in skincare for its hydrating, soothing, and antioxidant properties. It is often promoted for helping balance sebum and reduce the appearance of blemishes and redness. |
| Sigesbeckia Orientalis (St. Paul'S Wort) Extract Key active Soothing/anti-inflammatory botanical extract | Sigesbeckia Orientalis (St. Paul's Wort) Extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is often included to calm irritation, support skin barrier function, and improve the appearance of dull or stressed skin. |
| 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. |
| Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline Key active Anti-aging / firming active | Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline is a lipid-modified amino acid derivative used in skincare to support skin firmness and elasticity, with some evidence for antioxidant activity and stimulation of collagen-related structures. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and firming formulations at low concentrations. |
| Whey Protein\Lactis Protein\Proteine Du Petit-Lait Key active Skin conditioning / antioxidant | Whey protein is a milk-derived protein blend used in skincare as a conditioning agent that can support hydration and skin barrier function, with mild antioxidant properties attributed to its peptides and amino acids. It is sometimes promoted for soothing and moisturizing benefits in topical formulations. |
| Hydrolyzed Rice Extract Skin conditioning/humectant | Hydrolyzed Rice Extract is a water-soluble ingredient derived from enzymatically broken-down rice proteins and starches, valued for its hydrating, film-forming, and antioxidant properties. It is commonly used in cosmetic formulations to improve skin softness and moisture retention. |
| 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. |
| Laminaria Digitata Extract Conditioning/antioxidant | Laminaria Digitata Extract is derived from brown seaweed and is used in skincare for its mineral, polysaccharide, and antioxidant content, providing skin-conditioning, hydrating, and soothing benefits. It is commonly included for its purported moisturizing and protective properties. |
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.