Below is every ingredient in Mizon 0 1 Retinol Youth Serum 28G 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.
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.
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%.
Bakuchiol is a plant-derived (Psoralea corylifolia) compound used as a gentler functional alternative to retinol, promoting collagen production and improving signs of photoaging. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is generally better tolerated than retinoids.
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.
Hexapeptide-61 Dimer is a synthetic signaling peptide used in cosmetic formulations, marketed to support skin firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and modulate signs of skin aging. Its effects are based on peptide signaling to skin cells, though independent clinical data are limited.
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15 is a synthetic signal peptide used in skincare to help reduce skin sensitivity and discomfort by modulating nerve-related responses (such as TRPV1 receptor activity). It is marketed primarily for calming reactive or sensitized skin.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild transient stinging or irritation | Uncommon | More likely on compromised or sensitive skin, often due to its penetration-enhancing properties |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic sensitization | Rare | Glycol-type ingredients are generally low sensitizers but reactions are occasionally reported |
| Redness or dryness | Rare | Typically associated with high concentrations or already irritated skin |
| Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Transient stinging or redness, more likely on compromised or sensitive skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization is infrequent; propanediol is generally considered low-risk for allergy. |
| Enhanced penetration of co-formulated irritants | Uncommon | As a penetration enhancer it may increase absorption and irritation potential of other actives. |
| Mild transient skin irritation or stinging | Uncommon | More likely at higher concentrations or on compromised skin barriers. |
| Contact dermatitis / allergic sensitization | Rare | Occasional case reports; patch testing can confirm. |
| Eye irritation on accidental contact | Uncommon | Relevant mainly in leave-on or rinse-off products near the eye area. |
| Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can occur with direct contact in eye-area products. |
| Skin dryness | Common | Strips natural oils with repeated use, especially in high concentrations. |
| Irritation/stinging | Common | More likely on compromised or sensitive skin. |
| Impaired skin barrier function | Uncommon | Prolonged exposure may disrupt the stratum corneum. |
| Contact dermatitis | Rare | Allergic reactions to ethanol are uncommon but documented. |
| Worsening of conditions like eczema or rosacea | Uncommon | Can aggravate inflammatory or barrier-deficient skin. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Methylpropanediol Humectant/solvent | Methylpropanediol is a small glycol-type ingredient used in skincare as a humectant and solvent that helps hydrate skin and enhance the penetration of other actives. It also contributes to product texture and can support preservative efficacy. |
| Propanediol Humectant/solvent | Propanediol is a plant-derived glycol used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer that improves moisturization and the spreadability of formulations. It also helps solubilize other ingredients and can boost the efficacy of certain actives. |
| 2-Hexanediol Humectant/preservative-booster | 1,2-Hexanediol (commonly written 2-hexanediol) is a multifunctional diol used in skincare primarily as a humectant, solvent, and preservative-enhancing agent that improves the antimicrobial efficacy of formulations. It is generally well tolerated and considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| 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. |
| Ethanol Solvent/antimicrobial | Ethanol is a volatile alcohol used in skincare as a solvent, antimicrobial agent, and penetration enhancer, and it imparts a light, fast-drying feel to formulations. It is also used to reduce greasiness and improve the spreadability of products. |
| 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. |
| 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%. |
| Bakuchiol Key active Retinol alternative / antioxidant | Bakuchiol is a plant-derived (Psoralea corylifolia) compound used as a gentler functional alternative to retinol, promoting collagen production and improving signs of photoaging. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is generally better tolerated than retinoids. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Hexapeptide-61 Dimer Key active Signal peptide (anti-aging) | Hexapeptide-61 Dimer is a synthetic signaling peptide used in cosmetic formulations, marketed to support skin firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and modulate signs of skin aging. Its effects are based on peptide signaling to skin cells, though independent clinical data are limited. |
| Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15 Key active Soothing peptide / sensitivity reducer | Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15 is a synthetic signal peptide used in skincare to help reduce skin sensitivity and discomfort by modulating nerve-related responses (such as TRPV1 receptor activity). It is marketed primarily for calming reactive or sensitized skin. |
| Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract Soothing/moisturizing agent | Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract is derived from the aloe vera plant and is used in skincare for its hydrating, soothing, and mild anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly included as a supportive base ingredient rather than a primary 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil is a plant-derived emollient rich in oleic and palmitoleic fatty acids, used to soften skin, reduce moisture loss, and provide a lightweight occlusive layer. It serves primarily as a base/conditioning ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Emollient / occlusive moisturizer | Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter is a plant-derived fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree, rich in triglycerides and unsaponifiables. It is widely used in skincare to soften, smooth, and condition the skin while forming an occlusive barrier that reduces water loss. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprate Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprate is a lightweight ester (diester of neopentyl glycol and capric acid) used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient and spreading agent. It imparts a smooth, non-greasy skin feel and helps solubilize and disperse other ingredients in the formula base. |
| Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate Emulsifier / surfactant | Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is a non-ionic ester of polyglycerin and lauric acid used as a gentle emulsifier and mild surfactant in skincare and cosmetic formulations. It helps stabilize oil-in-water systems and can act as a solubilizer or cleansing agent. |
| 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. |
| Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine Emollient / liposome-forming emulsifier | Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine is a saturated phospholipid derived from lecithin, widely used in skincare to form liposomes and stabilize emulsions, enhancing delivery and skin penetration of other ingredients. It also supports the skin barrier due to its structural similarity to natural cell membrane lipids. |
| 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. |
| Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols are plant-derived phytosterols used in skincare to soften skin, reinforce the lipid barrier, and stabilize emulsions. They function primarily as a base/formulation conditioning agent rather than a targeted treatment active. |
| 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. |
| Ceteth-5 Emulsifier/surfactant | Ceteth-5 is a polyethylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol (5 ethylene oxide units) used as a nonionic emulsifier and surfactant to blend oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations. It is a base/formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Ceteth-3 emulsifier/surfactant | Ceteth-3 is a polyethylene glycol ether of cetyl alcohol (PEG-3 cetyl ether) used in cosmetic formulations as a nonionic emulsifier, surfactant, and solubilizer. It helps blend oil and water phases and stabilize creams and lotions. |
| Sorbitan Oleate Emulsifier / surfactant | Sorbitan Oleate is a nonionic surfactant and lipophilic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid, used to stabilize oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions in creams, lotions, and other cosmetic formulations. It is generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated at typical use concentrations. |
| 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. |
| Cyclodextrin Stabilizer / delivery carrier | Cyclodextrin is a cyclic oligosaccharide that forms inclusion complexes with hydrophobic molecules, used in skincare to stabilize, solubilize, and improve delivery of active ingredients while reducing odor and irritation. It functions primarily as a formulation aid rather than a direct skin-active. |
| 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. |
| Potassium Cetyl Phosphate Emulsifier | Potassium Cetyl Phosphate is an anionic emulsifier and surfactant used in oil-in-water formulations to stabilize emulsions and improve texture. It is considered a formulation/base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Thickener/film-former | Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a semi-synthetic cellulose derivative used in skincare and cosmetics as a thickening agent, emulsion stabilizer, film former, and binder. It is generally considered safe, non-toxic, and non-irritating in topical formulations. |
| Pullulan Film-forming agent / texturizer | Pullulan is a naturally derived polysaccharide produced by fermentation of starch by the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. In skincare it forms a thin, breathable film on the skin, providing a temporary tightening or smoothing effect and helping to stabilize formulations. |
| Polyisobutene Emollient/film-former | Polyisobutene is a synthetic hydrocarbon polymer used in cosmetics as an emollient, thickener, and film-forming agent that imparts smooth texture, adhesion, and improved spreadability. It is commonly found in long-wear makeup, lip products, and sunscreens to enhance water resistance and product longevity. |
| Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer Thickener / stabilizer | Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a synthetic acrylic-based polymer used as a rheology modifier, thickening agent, and emulsion stabilizer in skincare and cosmetic formulations. It helps create smooth, stable gels and creams without contributing active treatment benefits to the skin. |
| Sodium Polyacrylate Thickener / absorbent | Sodium polyacrylate is a superabsorbent acrylic-acid polymer used in skincare as a thickening, stabilizing, and water-binding agent that can hold large amounts of liquid to create gel-like textures. It functions as a formulation and texture-enhancing ingredient rather than a biologically active treatment. |
| Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate Humectant / conditioning agent | Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate is a cationic (quaternized) modified form of hyaluronic acid that carries a positive charge, improving its substantivity and ability to bind to skin and hair for enhanced moisturization and conditioning. It functions primarily as a humectant and film-forming conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations. |
| Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate Humectant / moisturizer | Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate is an acetylated, sodium-salt derivative of hyaluronic acid used in skincare for its enhanced moisture retention and improved skin adherence compared to standard hyaluronic acid. The acetyl modification increases lipophilicity, allowing better surface binding and prolonged hydration. |
| Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer Humectant / hydrating agent | Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is a chemically cross-linked form of sodium hyaluronate that forms a hydrated network, providing enhanced moisture retention and longer-lasting surface hydration compared to standard hyaluronic acid. It is widely used in moisturizers, serums, and masks to plump and smooth the skin surface. |
| Potassium Hyaluronate Humectant / skin-conditioning agent | Potassium hyaluronate is the potassium salt of hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that binds water to hydrate the skin and improve surface smoothness. It is commonly used in moisturizers and serums as a hydrating and texture-enhancing ingredient. |
| Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Humectant / moisturizer | Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid is a low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid broken into smaller fragments, allowing better penetration into the skin to bind water and improve hydration. It is widely used in moisturizers and serums to enhance skin moisture content and surface smoothness. |
| Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant / hydrating agent | Hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate is an enzymatically or chemically fragmented, low-molecular-weight form of sodium hyaluronate used in skincare to attract and bind water. Its smaller size allows better penetration into the upper layers of the skin compared to high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, supporting surface hydration and a smoother appearance. |
| Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Extract Antioxidant / fragrance & botanical extract | Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Peel Extract is a botanical derived from tangerine peel, valued in skincare for its antioxidant flavonoids and natural aromatic compounds. It is commonly used as a skin-conditioning agent and natural fragrance component in cosmetic formulations. |
| Sophora Flavescens Root Extract Key active Soothing/anti-inflammatory botanical extract | Sophora Flavescens Root Extract is derived from the root of Sophora flavescens and is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, often to calm irritation and address sensitive or acne-prone skin. It contains alkaloids such as matrine and oxymatrine along with flavonoids. |
| Crithmum Maritimum Extract Key active Antioxidant / skin-conditioning | Crithmum Maritimum (sea fennel) extract is a botanical rich in polyphenols, vitamin C, and minerals used for its antioxidant, brightening, and skin-conditioning properties. It is studied for protecting skin against oxidative stress and supporting an even tone. |
| Larix Leptolepis (Larch) Bark Extract Key active Antioxidant / skin-conditioning extract | Larix Leptolepis (Larch) Bark Extract is a plant-derived extract rich in polyphenols and arabinogalactans used in skincare for antioxidant, soothing, and skin-conditioning properties. It is sometimes included for its potential to support skin barrier function and provide mild humectant effects. |
| Poterium Officinale Root Extract Key active Skin conditioning / botanical extract | Poterium Officinale Root Extract is a plant-derived botanical (great burnet root) used in skincare for its purported antioxidant, soothing, and skin-conditioning properties. It is often included for anti-inflammatory and skin-tone-evening benefits, though robust clinical evidence is limited. |
| Gleditsia Australis Fruit Extract Cleansing/conditioning agent | Gleditsia Australis Fruit Extract is a plant-derived extract obtained from the fruit pods of Gleditsia australis, naturally rich in saponins that provide mild cleansing, foaming, and skin/hair conditioning properties. It is used in cleansers, shampoos, and similar formulations as a botanical surfactant and conditioning ingredient. |
| Adenosine Key active Anti-aging/soothing active | Adenosine is a nucleoside that signals through cell-surface receptors to promote dermal fibroblast activity and collagen/elastin production, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties at low concentrations commonly used in cosmetics (around 0.04-0.1%). |
| Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Extract Skin conditioning/fragrance agent | Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Extract is derived from the peel of the mandarin orange and is used in skincare as a skin-conditioning agent, antioxidant source, and natural fragrance/aromatic component. It contains flavonoids, limonene, and other terpenes that contribute to its scent and mild antioxidant properties. |
| Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate Key active Anti-inflammatory/soothing agent | Dipotassium glycyrrhizate is a water-soluble salt derived from licorice root (glycyrrhizic acid) used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and antioxidant properties. It is commonly added to formulations to calm irritation, redness, and sensitivity. |
| Porphyridium Cruentum Extract Key active Antioxidant / soothing hydrating agent | Porphyridium Cruentum Extract is derived from a red microalga rich in sulfated polysaccharides and antioxidants, used in skincare for moisturizing, soothing, and protective effects against environmental stress. It is valued for its film-forming and barrier-supporting properties. |
| Wri Unrecognized/unverified ingredient | "Wri" does not correspond to any established skincare ingredient recognized in dermatology or cosmetic-chemistry literature, nor to a standard INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name. No peer-reviewed function, mechanism, or safety data could be identified for this term. |
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.