Below is every ingredient in Mizon 0 3 Retinol Youth Cream 26G 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.
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.
Retinol at 0.3% is a low-concentration vitamin A derivative that converts to retinoic acid in the skin to promote cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and improve fine lines, texture, and uneven tone. It is a well-tolerated entry-level concentration commonly used in over-the-counter formulations.
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%).
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.
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.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 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, generally in sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Occasional case reports of sensitization; patch testing can confirm. |
| Comedogenicity / pore congestion | Rare | Potential to contribute to clogged pores in acne-prone individuals, though generally considered low risk. |
| Redness or itching | Rare | Typically resolves after discontinuation. |
| Mild skin irritation or transient redness | Rare | Generally well tolerated topically; occasional irritation reported, often related to released complexed actives. |
| Contact sensitization or allergic reaction | Very rare | Documented infrequently; cyclodextrins are considered low-allergenic. |
| Dryness with high concentrations | Rare | Possible mild barrier disruption when used at elevated levels. |
| Comedogenicity (pore-clogging) | Uncommon | May contribute to clogged pores or breakouts in acne-prone or oily skin, though shea is generally low on the comedogenic scale. |
| Skin irritation or redness | Rare | Occasional mild irritation, often related to impurities in unrefined products or individual sensitivity. |
| Mild transient flushing or redness | Uncommon | More likely at higher concentrations or in sensitive skin; usually subsides quickly. |
| Tingling, stinging, or burning sensation | Uncommon | Often associated with higher percentages or compromised barrier. |
| Contact irritation or itching | Rare | Generally dose-dependent and resolves with discontinuation. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| 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. |
| Octyldodecanol Emollient/solvent | Octyldodecanol is a branched fatty alcohol used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent that improves spreadability and texture. It helps soften skin and dissolve other ingredients without functioning as a treatment 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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%. |
| 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. |
| C15-23 Alkane Emollient/solvent | C15-23 Alkane is a blend of medium-to-long-chain saturated hydrocarbons, often plant-derived, used as a lightweight, non-greasy emollient and silicone alternative. It softens skin and improves spreadability and texture in formulations. |
| 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. |
| Diethoxyethyl Succinate Emollient/Solvent | Diethoxyethyl Succinate is a synthetic diester used in skincare primarily as an emollient and solvent that improves spreadability and skin feel. It functions as a formulation/base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Glyceryl Stearate Emulsifier/emollient | Glyceryl Stearate is a glycerol ester of stearic acid widely used as a non-ionic emulsifier and emollient to stabilize oil-in-water formulations and improve skin feel. It functions as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Palmitic Acid Emollient / surfactant | Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly used in skincare as an emollient, emulsifier, and cleansing agent that helps soften skin and stabilize formulations. It is also a natural component of the skin's lipid barrier. |
| Arachidyl Alcohol Emollient / emulsion stabilizer | Arachidyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol (C20) derived from natural oils that functions as an emollient, thickener, and co-emulsifier to stabilize creams and lotions. It improves texture and helps maintain emulsion consistency in skincare formulations. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Stearic Acid Emulsifier / thickener | Stearic acid is a saturated long-chain fatty acid widely used in cosmetics as an emulsifier, thickening agent, and emollient to stabilize creams and lotions. It is generally considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| Diisostearyl Malate Emollient / Skin-conditioning agent | Diisostearyl Malate is an ester of malic acid and isostearyl alcohol used as an emollient and binder, particularly common in lipsticks and other anhydrous color cosmetics where it imparts gloss, spreadability, and pigment dispersion. It functions as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Behenyl Alcohol Emollient / Thickener | Behenyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from behenic acid that functions as an emollient, thickening agent, and emulsion stabilizer in cosmetic and skincare formulations. It helps soften the skin and improve product texture and stability. |
| Hydroxyacetophenone Antioxidant / soothing agent | Hydroxyacetophenone (acetophenone-based compound, often 4'-hydroxyacetophenone) is used in skincare primarily as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent that can also enhance the stability and efficacy of preservative systems. It is valued for its soothing properties and helps neutralize free radicals while reducing potential irritation from other formulation components. |
| Betaine Humectant / osmolyte | Betaine is a naturally derived amino acid derivative (trimethylglycine) used in skincare as a humectant and osmoprotectant that attracts and retains moisture while helping stabilize skin barrier function. It also improves the texture and mildness of formulations. |
| Jojoba Esters Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Jojoba Esters are wax esters derived from jojoba oil, used in skincare to soften skin, reduce moisture loss, and improve product texture and spreadability. They are valued for their stability and skin-compatible, non-greasy emollient properties. |
| Arachidyl Glucoside Emulsifier / surfactant | Arachidyl Glucoside is a non-ionic, plant-derived emulsifier created from fatty alcohols and glucose, used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and improve texture. It functions as a formulation aid 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Retinol (0.3%) Key active Anti-aging active (vitamin A derivative) | Retinol at 0.3% is a low-concentration vitamin A derivative that converts to retinoic acid in the skin to promote cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and improve fine lines, texture, and uneven tone. It is a well-tolerated entry-level concentration commonly used in over-the-counter formulations. |
| C13-14 Alkane Emollient/skin-conditioning | C13-14 Alkane is a plant-derived, biodegradable nonpolar hydrocarbon used as a lightweight emollient and silicone alternative that imparts a soft, smooth skin feel and improves spreadability in formulations. It functions as a base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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 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. |
| Peg-5 Rapeseed Sterol Emulsifier / emollient | PEG-5 Rapeseed Sterol is a PEGylated derivative of rapeseed-derived phytosterols used as a nonionic emulsifier, conditioning agent, and emollient to stabilize oil-in-water systems and improve skin feel. It is a formulation/base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| Bht Antioxidant/preservative | BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant used in small amounts to prevent oxidation and rancidity of oils, fragrances, and other unstable components, helping maintain product stability and shelf life. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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%). |
| Polysorbate 60 Emulsifier / surfactant | Polysorbate 60 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol and stearic acid, used to blend oil and water phases and stabilize emulsions in creams and lotions. It functions as a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Sorbitan Isostearate Emulsifier / surfactant | Sorbitan isostearate is a sorbitan ester of isostearic acid used as a nonionic emulsifier and stabilizer in oil-in-water and water-in-oil cosmetic formulations. It helps blend oil and water phases and improves texture and spreadability. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside Surfactant/cleanser | Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside is a mild, biodegradable nonionic surfactant derived from coconut/palm-based fatty alcohols and glucose, used as a gentle cleansing and foaming agent. It is valued for its low irritation potential and suitability for sensitive-skin and baby cleansing formulations. |
| 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. |
| Myristic Acid Surfactant/cleansing agent | Myristic acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly used in skincare as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, often reacted with alkalis to form soap-based surfactants. It contributes to foaming and texture in cleansers and other formulations. |
| 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. |
| Arachidic Acid Emollient / surfactant precursor | Arachidic acid (eicosanoic acid) is a saturated long-chain fatty acid used in cosmetics primarily as an emollient, thickener, and opacifying agent, and as a base for surfactants and emulsifiers. It helps stabilize formulations and condition the skin surface rather than acting as a therapeutic active. |
| Glucose Humectant/skin-conditioning agent | Glucose is a simple sugar used in skincare primarily as a humectant and skin-conditioning ingredient, helping to attract and retain moisture in the skin. It can also serve as a substrate in formulations and contributes to the skin's natural moisturizing factors. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
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.