Below is every ingredient in Paula S Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner 118 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.
Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is the major polyphenol catechin derived from green tea, used in topical formulations for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps neutralize free radicals, may reduce UV-induced oxidative damage, and is studied for soothing and photoprotective benefits.
Oenothera Biennis (evening primrose) oil is a plant-derived oil rich in linoleic and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), used in skincare for its emollient and barrier-supporting properties. It is studied for soothing dry, irritated, and inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis.
Linolenic acid is an essential omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid used in skincare to support the skin barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and provide emollient and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is a component of many plant-derived oils and helps maintain healthy lipid composition of the stratum corneum.
Evening Primrose Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), used in skincare to support the skin barrier, soften skin, and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is also studied for soothing effects in conditions like atopic dermatitis.
Quercetin is a plant-derived flavonoid used in topical formulations for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and calm skin. It is often included to support protection against oxidative and UV-related stress.
Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid used in skincare to reinforce the skin's lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support a softer, less clogged complexion. It is also studied for normalizing sebum composition, which tends to be linoleic-acid deficient in acne-prone skin.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild irritation or stinging | Rare | Generally well tolerated; transient irritation possible on sensitive skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization is uncommon; soy-derived material may rarely concern soy-sensitive individuals. |
| Comedogenicity / breakouts | Rare | Low comedogenic potential but possible in acne-prone skin at high concentrations. |
| Skin barrier disruption / increased transepidermal water loss | Common | Higher concentrations can compromise the stratum corneum lipid barrier. |
| Irritation and redness | Common | More likely on compromised, sensitive, or atopic-prone skin. |
| Comedogenicity / acne aggravation | Uncommon | May contribute to clogged pores or breakouts in acne-prone individuals. |
| Mild skin irritation or redness | Uncommon | Possible with higher concentrations or sensitive skin |
| Stinging or itching | Rare | Transient, typically resolves after discontinuation |
| Product discoloration affecting skin appearance | Very rare | EGCG can oxidize and yellow, occasionally staining |
| Contact irritation or mild redness | Uncommon | Possible in sensitive individuals, often related to oxidized oil or formulation. |
| Acneiform breakouts | Rare | May occur in acne-prone skin due to comedogenic potential of the oil. |
| Contact dermatitis/skin irritation | Rare | Occasional mild irritation or allergic contact reactions reported in sensitive individuals. |
| Allergic reaction in soy- or egg-sensitive individuals | Rare | Source-dependent sensitization possible, though topical reactions are uncommon. |
| Comedogenicity/breakouts | Uncommon | May contribute to pore congestion in acne-prone skin depending on concentration and formulation. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Hydrogenated Lecithin Emollient / emulsifier | Hydrogenated lecithin is a hydrogenated form of lecithin (phospholipids from soy or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and skin-conditioning agent that helps stabilize formulations and supports the skin barrier. It is also commonly used to form liposomes for delivery of other ingredients. |
| Oleic Acid Emollient / penetration enhancer | Oleic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid used in skincare as an emollient and skin-barrier penetration enhancer, often derived from plant oils. It softens skin and improves the absorption of other ingredients but can disrupt the stratum corneum at higher concentrations. |
| Epigallocatechin Gallate Key active Antioxidant | Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is the major polyphenol catechin derived from green tea, used in topical formulations for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps neutralize free radicals, may reduce UV-induced oxidative damage, and is studied for soothing and photoprotective benefits. |
| Oenothera Biennis Oil Key active Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Oenothera Biennis (evening primrose) oil is a plant-derived oil rich in linoleic and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), used in skincare for its emollient and barrier-supporting properties. It is studied for soothing dry, irritated, and inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. |
| Lecithin Emollient/emulsifier | Lecithin is a phospholipid-rich substance (often derived from soy or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and penetration enhancer. It helps stabilize oil-and-water formulations and conditions the skin barrier. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that draws water into the stratum corneum and helps maintain skin hydration and barrier function. It is well tolerated across skin types and commonly serves as a base/moisturizing ingredient in skincare formulations. |
| Cucurbita Pepo Seed Extract Antioxidant/Conditioning | Cucurbita Pepo (pumpkin) Seed Extract is derived from pumpkin seeds and is rich in fatty acids, phytosterols, tocopherols, zinc, and antioxidants. It is used in skincare for emollient, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning benefits, and is sometimes promoted for sebum-regulating and 5-alpha-reductase-modulating properties. |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient/skin-conditioning agent | Caprylic/capric triglyceride is a lightweight ester derived from coconut or palm oil and glycerin, used as an emollient, dispersing agent, and carrier for oil-soluble actives. It softens skin, improves spreadability, and helps stabilize formulations. |
| Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant / hydrating agent | Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin. It is widely used in moisturizers and serums to improve hydration, plumpness, and skin barrier feel. |
| Phospholipid Emollient / emulsifier / skin-barrier conditioning agent | Phospholipids are amphiphilic lipids (such as phosphatidylcholine) that form a key structural component of cell membranes and the skin's lipid barrier. In cosmetics they function as emulsifiers, liposome-forming carriers, and emollients that help reinforce the skin barrier and aid delivery of other ingredients. |
| Linolenic Acid Key active Skin-conditioning / emollient fatty acid | Linolenic acid is an essential omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid used in skincare to support the skin barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and provide emollient and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is a component of many plant-derived oils and helps maintain healthy lipid composition of the stratum corneum. |
| Evening Primrose Oil Key active Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Evening Primrose Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), used in skincare to support the skin barrier, soften skin, and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is also studied for soothing effects in conditions like atopic dermatitis. |
| Beet Root Extract Antioxidant / humectant / natural colorant | Beet root extract (Beta vulgaris) is a plant-derived ingredient rich in betalains, polyphenols, and sugars, used in skincare for its antioxidant and hydrating properties, and occasionally as a natural pink-red colorant. It is valued for soothing and conditioning effects on the skin. |
| Quercetin Key active Antioxidant / anti-inflammatory flavonoid | Quercetin is a plant-derived flavonoid used in topical formulations for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and calm skin. It is often included to support protection against oxidative and UV-related stress. |
| Sphingolipids Skin-barrier lipid / moisturizer | Sphingolipids are a class of lipids (including ceramides) naturally found in the skin's stratum corneum, where they help maintain the lipid barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. In skincare formulations they are used to support barrier repair, hydration, and skin smoothness. |
| Linoleic Acid Key active Emollient / skin-barrier lipid | Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid used in skincare to reinforce the skin's lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support a softer, less clogged complexion. It is also studied for normalizing sebum composition, which tends to be linoleic-acid deficient in acne-prone skin. |
| Glycyrrhiza Glabra Key active Anti-inflammatory / skin-brightening | Glycyrrhiza Glabra (licorice root extract) is a botanical ingredient valued for its soothing, antioxidant, and skin-tone-evening properties, largely attributed to compounds like glabridin, glycyrrhizin, and liquiritin. It is commonly used to calm irritation and reduce hyperpigmentation. |
| Licorice Root Key active Brightening / anti-inflammatory | Licorice root extract contains compounds such as glabridin and liquiritin that inhibit tyrosinase activity and reduce inflammation, making it used to address hyperpigmentation and soothe irritated skin. It is generally well tolerated in topical formulations. |
| Genistein Key active Antioxidant / phytoestrogen | Genistein is a soy-derived isoflavone used topically for its antioxidant and estrogen-like activity, with research suggesting benefits for photoaging, collagen support, and skin elasticity. It is considered a treatment active in anti-aging formulations. |
| Acetyl Glucosamine Key active Skin-conditioning agent / exfoliant / pigmentation modulator | Acetyl glucosamine is an amino sugar and precursor to hyaluronic acid that is used in skincare to support skin hydration, gently aid exfoliation, and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production. It is often combined with niacinamide to enhance effects on uneven skin tone. |
| Cyclopentasiloxane Emollient/silicone solvent | Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile silicone used as a lightweight emollient and carrier that imparts smooth spreadability and a silky, non-greasy feel before evaporating from the skin. It is commonly used in moisturizers, hair products, antiperspirants, and color cosmetics. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that draws water into the stratum corneum and helps maintain skin hydration and barrier function. It is well tolerated across skin types and commonly serves as a base/moisturizing ingredient in skincare formulations. |
| Glycereth-26 Humectant/emollient | Glycereth-26 is a polyethylene glycol ether of glycerin used in skincare and cosmetics as a water-soluble humectant and emollient that helps attract moisture and improve product texture. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Polysorbate 20 Emulsifier/Solubilizer | Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and lauric acid, used to emulsify oils and solubilize fragrances or essential oils into water-based formulations. It also functions as a mild dispersing and wetting agent. |
| Dimethiconol Emollient/conditioning silicone | Dimethiconol is a hydroxyl-terminated silicone polymer used to soften skin and hair, impart slip, and form a smooth, water-repellent film. It is primarily a sensory and conditioning agent rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Linoleic Acid Key active Emollient / skin-barrier lipid | Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid used in skincare to reinforce the skin's lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support a softer, less clogged complexion. It is also studied for normalizing sebum composition, which tends to be linoleic-acid deficient in acne-prone skin. |
| Oleic Acid Emollient / penetration enhancer | Oleic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid used in skincare as an emollient and skin-barrier penetration enhancer, often derived from plant oils. It softens skin and improves the absorption of other ingredients but can disrupt the stratum corneum at higher concentrations. |
| Linolenic Acid Key active Skin-conditioning / emollient fatty acid | Linolenic acid is an essential omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid used in skincare to support the skin barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and provide emollient and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is a component of many plant-derived oils and helps maintain healthy lipid composition of the stratum corneum. |
| Phospholipid Emollient / emulsifier / skin-barrier conditioning agent | Phospholipids are amphiphilic lipids (such as phosphatidylcholine) that form a key structural component of cell membranes and the skin's lipid barrier. In cosmetics they function as emulsifiers, liposome-forming carriers, and emollients that help reinforce the skin barrier and aid delivery of other ingredients. |
| Carnosine Key active Antioxidant / anti-glycation agent | Carnosine is a dipeptide (beta-alanine and L-histidine) used in skincare for its antioxidant and anti-glycation properties, helping to protect proteins like collagen from oxidative and glycation-related damage. It is often included in anti-aging formulations to support skin resilience. |
| Epigallocatechin Gallate Key active Antioxidant | Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is the major polyphenol catechin derived from green tea, used in topical formulations for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps neutralize free radicals, may reduce UV-induced oxidative damage, and is studied for soothing and photoprotective benefits. |
| Genistein Key active Antioxidant / phytoestrogen | Genistein is a soy-derived isoflavone used topically for its antioxidant and estrogen-like activity, with research suggesting benefits for photoaging, collagen support, and skin elasticity. It is considered a treatment active in anti-aging formulations. |
| Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant / hydrating agent | Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin. It is widely used in moisturizers and serums to improve hydration, plumpness, and skin barrier feel. |
| Sphingolipids Skin-barrier lipid / moisturizer | Sphingolipids are a class of lipids (including ceramides) naturally found in the skin's stratum corneum, where they help maintain the lipid barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. In skincare formulations they are used to support barrier repair, hydration, and skin smoothness. |
| Ferulic Acid Key active Antioxidant | Ferulic acid is a plant-derived phenolic antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and is commonly used to stabilize and enhance the efficacy of vitamins C and E in formulations. It also provides modest photoprotective benefits against UV-induced skin damage. |
| Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Conditioning agent (substantive protein derivative) | Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is a quaternized, lauryl-modified hydrolyzed soy protein used in hair and skin care to improve conditioning, moisture retention, and film formation. Its cationic charge enhances substantivity, allowing it to adhere to hair and skin surfaces for a smoothing, softening effect. |
| Glycyrrhiza Glabra Key active Anti-inflammatory / skin-brightening | Glycyrrhiza Glabra (licorice root extract) is a botanical ingredient valued for its soothing, antioxidant, and skin-tone-evening properties, largely attributed to compounds like glabridin, glycyrrhizin, and liquiritin. It is commonly used to calm irritation and reduce hyperpigmentation. |
| Acetyl Glucosamine Key active Skin-conditioning agent / exfoliant / pigmentation modulator | Acetyl glucosamine is an amino sugar and precursor to hyaluronic acid that is used in skincare to support skin hydration, gently aid exfoliation, and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production. It is often combined with niacinamide to enhance effects on uneven skin tone. |
| Quercetin Key active Antioxidant / anti-inflammatory flavonoid | Quercetin is a plant-derived flavonoid used in topical formulations for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and calm skin. It is often included to support protection against oxidative and UV-related stress. |
| Oenothera Biennis Oil Key active Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Oenothera Biennis (evening primrose) oil is a plant-derived oil rich in linoleic and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), used in skincare for its emollient and barrier-supporting properties. It is studied for soothing dry, irritated, and inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. |
| Beta Vulgaris Root Extract Antioxidant / Humectant | Beta Vulgaris Root Extract is derived from beetroot and is used in skincare for its antioxidant, conditioning, and humectant properties due to its content of betaine, betalain pigments, and sugars. It helps support skin hydration and may provide mild antioxidant protection. |
| Cucurbita Pepo Seed Extract Antioxidant/Conditioning | Cucurbita Pepo (pumpkin) Seed Extract is derived from pumpkin seeds and is rich in fatty acids, phytosterols, tocopherols, zinc, and antioxidants. It is used in skincare for emollient, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning benefits, and is sometimes promoted for sebum-regulating and 5-alpha-reductase-modulating properties. |
| Lecithin Emollient/emulsifier | Lecithin is a phospholipid-rich substance (often derived from soy or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and penetration enhancer. It helps stabilize oil-and-water formulations and conditions the skin barrier. |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient/skin-conditioning agent | Caprylic/capric triglyceride is a lightweight ester derived from coconut or palm oil and glycerin, used as an emollient, dispersing agent, and carrier for oil-soluble actives. It softens skin, improves spreadability, and helps stabilize formulations. |
| Hydrolyzed Corn Starch Texture enhancer / film former | Hydrolyzed Corn Starch is a corn-derived polysaccharide broken down by hydrolysis into smaller fragments, used in skincare and cosmetics as a thickening agent, film former, absorbent, and to improve skin feel. It is considered a formulation/base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Hydrogenated Lecithin Emollient / emulsifier | Hydrogenated lecithin is a hydrogenated form of lecithin (phospholipids from soy or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and skin-conditioning agent that helps stabilize formulations and supports the skin barrier. It is also commonly used to form liposomes for delivery of other ingredients. |
| Palmitic Acid Emollient / surfactant-cleansing agent | Palmitic acid is a saturated long-chain fatty acid used in skincare as an emollient, thickener, and (when saponified) a cleansing surfactant. It is also a natural component of the skin's lipid barrier, helping to soften and condition the skin. |
| Butylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Butylene glycol is a small diol used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-reducing agent that helps dissolve other ingredients and improve product texture. It is widely regarded as safe and well tolerated in cosmetic concentrations. |
| Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer Rheology modifier / emulsion stabilizer | Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic crosslinked polymer used to thicken, stabilize, and suspend ingredients in cosmetic formulations. It functions as a gelling and emulsion-stabilizing agent rather than a skin-treating active. |
| 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 texture and suspends ingredients without contributing active treatment effects. |
| Laureth-23 Surfactant/emulsifier | Laureth-23 is a polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol used as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer in cosmetic and skincare formulations. It helps blend oil and water phases and disperse poorly soluble ingredients. |
| Laureth-4 Surfactant/emulsifier | Laureth-4 is a polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol used as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer in cosmetic and topical formulations. It helps blend oil and water phases and improve product texture rather than treat a specific skin condition. |
| Aminomethyl Propanol pH adjuster / neutralizer | Aminomethyl Propanol (AMP) is an alkaline organic amine used to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations and to neutralize acidic gelling agents such as carbomers. It functions as a formulation aid rather than a skin-treatment active. |
| Disodium Edta Chelating agent | Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used in cosmetic and skincare formulations to bind metal ions, improving product stability, preventing rancidity, and enhancing the efficacy of preservatives. It is a formulation additive rather than a skin-treating active. |
| Sodium Benzoate Preservative | Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid used as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetic and personal care formulations, primarily inhibiting yeast, mold, and some bacteria in slightly acidic products. It is a base/formulation ingredient rather than a skin-treatment active. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative booster / skin-conditioning agent | Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional ingredient used in skincare primarily as a preservative enhancer and humectant, allowing reduced levels of traditional preservatives while also providing mild skin-conditioning and deodorizing effects. It is widely regarded as a gentle, well-tolerated formulation ingredient. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a glycol ether widely used as a broad-spectrum preservative in cosmetics and skincare to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and is considered safe and effective as a formulation ingredient. |
| Chlorphenesin Preservative | Chlorphenesin is a synthetic antimicrobial agent used in cosmetic formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, helping to extend product shelf life. It also has mild muscle-relaxant properties in pharmaceutical contexts but in skincare functions primarily as a preservative. |
| Benzoic Acid Preservative | Benzoic acid is a widely used antimicrobial preservative that inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in cosmetic and skincare formulations, working most effectively in acidic products. It is typically used at low concentrations and is not a therapeutic skin active. |
| Sorbic Acid Preservative | Sorbic acid is a weak organic acid used in cosmetics primarily as an antimicrobial preservative, especially effective against molds and yeasts at acidic pH. It is typically used at low concentrations (around 0.1-0.2%) to extend product shelf life. |
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.