Below is every ingredient in Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum 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.
Ectoin is a naturally derived amino acid derivative (extremolyte) that stabilizes proteins and cell membranes, helping skin retain moisture and resist environmental stressors such as UV radiation and pollution. It is used in skincare for hydration, barrier support, and soothing of irritated or sensitive skin.
Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant used in skincare to protect skin and formulations from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and UV exposure. It also functions as a skin-conditioning and emollient agent and can stabilize oils against rancidity.
Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid used in skincare to help control excess sebum, support antimicrobial activity, and provide mild hydration. It is commonly included in products targeting oily and acne-prone skin.
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.
Totarol is a plant-derived diterpenoid (from Podocarpus trees) used in skincare for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, often included in formulations targeting acne-causing bacteria. It is valued as a natural preservative-booster and active ingredient against gram-positive bacteria.
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%.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Irritation or dryness from excessive washing | Rare | Related to overexposure or impurities rather than water itself; prolonged wet contact can disrupt the skin barrier. |
| Allergic or sensitivity reaction | Very rare | Pure water is non-allergenic; reactions are attributable to contaminants or other formulation components. |
| Mild contact irritation | Rare | Occasional redness or stinging, usually in sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Isolated case reports; considered a low-sensitizing ingredient. |
| Comedogenicity / clogged pores | Rare | Generally low comedogenic potential, but acne-prone individuals may occasionally react. |
| 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. |
| Comedogenicity / pore congestion | Rare | Potential to contribute to clogged pores in acne-prone individuals, though generally considered low risk. |
| Clogged pores/comedogenicity | Rare | Possible in acne-prone skin, though risk is considered low for this longer-chain blend. |
| Mild irritation or stinging | Rare | Generally only with impure formulations or already compromised skin. |
| Acneiform breakouts / clogged pores | Rare | Low comedogenic rating, but acne-prone individuals may occasionally react. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Aqua/Water/Eau Solvent/base | Water is the most common ingredient in skincare formulations, serving as a solvent and carrier that dissolves water-soluble ingredients and forms the base of emulsions. It is physiologically inert and well-tolerated on skin. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| C12-16 Alcohols Emollient/emulsifier | C12-16 Alcohols is a blend of fatty alcohols (lauryl through cetyl) used in skincare as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and thickening/opacifying agent. It softens skin and helps maintain product texture and stability. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil Emollient / antioxidant | Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in linoleic acid, tocopherols, and phytosterols used in skincare to soften skin, reinforce the barrier, and provide mild antioxidant activity. It functions primarily as a base emollient rather than a targeted treatment 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. |
| Ectoin Key active Protective osmolyte / humectant | Ectoin is a naturally derived amino acid derivative (extremolyte) that stabilizes proteins and cell membranes, helping skin retain moisture and resist environmental stressors such as UV radiation and pollution. It is used in skincare for hydration, barrier support, and soothing of irritated or sensitive skin. |
| Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Hybrid Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Hybrid Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in fatty acids (notably linoleic acid) used in skincare to soften skin, reinforce the lipid barrier, and improve texture. It functions primarily as an emollient and occlusive base ingredient rather than a targeted treatment 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. |
| Myristyl Alcohol Emollient/emulsifier | Myristyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from myristic acid, used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient, thickener, and co-emulsifier to stabilize emulsions and improve skin feel. It is a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Pca Humectant / NMF component | PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid), often as sodium PCA, is a naturally occurring component of skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF) that attracts and binds water to the stratum corneum. It is used in skincare to improve hydration and skin softness. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Potassium Sorbate Preservative | Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, used as a mild preservative to inhibit mold, yeast, and some bacterial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is most effective at acidic pH and is often combined with other preservatives for broad-spectrum protection. |
| Carbomer Thickener / gelling agent | Carbomer is a synthetic high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid used to thicken, stabilize, and control the viscosity of gels, creams, and lotions. It functions as a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate Emulsifier / surfactant | Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is a mild, amino-acid-derived (glutamic acid and stearic acid) anionic surfactant used primarily as an emulsifier and co-emulsifier to stabilize oil-in-water formulations. It is well tolerated and often chosen for gentle, naturally derived cosmetic systems. |
| Sodium Benzoate Preservative | Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, particularly in acidic products. It is most effective at a pH below 5. |
| Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E used to soften skin and support the skin barrier. It functions as an emollient and occlusive agent in many cosmetic formulations. |
| Tocopherol Key active Antioxidant | Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant used in skincare to protect skin and formulations from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and UV exposure. It also functions as a skin-conditioning and emollient agent and can stabilize oils against rancidity. |
| Citric Acid pH adjuster / AHA exfoliant | Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from citrus fruits, used primarily to adjust and buffer formulation pH and as a chelating agent, and at higher concentrations as a mild chemical exfoliant. It can promote surface cell turnover and is sometimes included in antioxidant or brightening products. |
| Zinc Pca Key active Sebum-regulating, antimicrobial | Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid used in skincare to help control excess sebum, support antimicrobial activity, and provide mild hydration. It is commonly included in products targeting oily and acne-prone skin. |
| Maltodextrin Carrier/film-forming agent | Maltodextrin is a polysaccharide derived from starch hydrolysis, used in skincare primarily as a carrier, bulking agent, film former, and stabilizer for active ingredients and powders. It also helps improve texture and can act as a mild thickening or emulsion-stabilizing aid. |
| 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. |
| Hydrolyzed Rice Protein Conditioning agent / film-former | Hydrolyzed rice protein is a water-soluble blend of amino acids and peptides derived from rice, used in skincare and haircare to provide moisturizing, conditioning, and film-forming benefits that improve surface smoothness and hydration. It is primarily a cosmetic functional ingredient rather than a clinically active treatment. |
| 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. |
| Totarol Key active Antimicrobial antioxidant | Totarol is a plant-derived diterpenoid (from Podocarpus trees) used in skincare for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, often included in formulations targeting acne-causing bacteria. It is valued as a natural preservative-booster and active ingredient against gram-positive bacteria. |
| Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil Antimicrobial/fragrance | Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil, commonly known as manuka oil, is an essential oil derived from the New Zealand manuka plant and is used in skincare for its antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It is sometimes incorporated into formulations targeting acne or minor skin irritations, though it also contributes a characteristic aroma. |
| 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%. |
| Sodium Hydroxide pH adjuster | Sodium hydroxide (lye) is a strong alkaline compound used in small amounts to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations. At regulated low concentrations in finished products it is considered safe, though it is corrosive in concentrated form. |
| Calcium Pantothenate Key active Skin conditioning / humectant (provitamin B5 derivative) | Calcium pantothenate is the calcium salt of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), used in skincare as a moisturizing and skin-conditioning agent that supports barrier function and hydration. It functions as a precursor to panthenol and is valued for its humectant and soothing properties. |
| Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate Absorbent / texturizing agent | Sodium starch octenylsuccinate is a modified starch derived from corn or other plant sources, used in skincare and cosmetics as an oil-absorbing, mattifying, and texture-enhancing ingredient. It helps create a soft, dry, powdery feel and can stabilize emulsions. |
| Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract Key active Anti-inflammatory/antioxidant active | Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract is derived from the bark of the magnolia tree and contains bioactive lignans such as magnolol and honokiol. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, often to soothe sensitive or irritated skin. |
| Piper Nigrum (Pepper) Seed Extract Key active Skin-conditioning / antioxidant | Piper Nigrum (Pepper) Seed Extract is derived from black pepper seeds and is used in skincare for its antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties, attributed largely to piperine and related compounds. It is also included for purported microcirculation-stimulating and warming effects in some formulations. |
| Tocopheryl Acetate Key active Antioxidant | Tocopheryl acetate is a stable, esterified form of vitamin E used in skincare as an antioxidant and conditioning agent. It is converted to active tocopherol in the skin, helping protect against oxidative stress and supporting the skin barrier. |
| Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Key active Antioxidant | Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (green tea extract) is derived from the leaves of the tea plant and is rich in polyphenols, particularly catechins like EGCG. It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. |
| Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract Key active Antioxidant/soothing | Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract is a botanical extract rich in resveratrol and emodin, used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning properties. It is valued for helping protect against oxidative stress and supporting a more even skin tone. |
| Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate Key active Vitamin C derivative / antioxidant | Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that is converted to active ascorbic acid in the skin. It provides antioxidant protection, supports collagen synthesis, and is also studied for its brightening and anti-acne (antibacterial) effects. |
| Pyridoxine Hcl Key active Vitamin B6 derivative / conditioning agent | Pyridoxine HCl is the water-soluble hydrochloride salt of vitamin B6, used topically as a skin-conditioning agent that may help regulate sebum production and support skin barrier function. It is found in formulations targeting oily or acne-prone skin. |
| Alanyl Glutamine Skin-conditioning / moisturizing dipeptide | Alanyl Glutamine is a dipeptide of L-alanine and L-glutamine used in skincare as a skin-conditioning and humectant agent that supports hydration and barrier function. It is generally considered well tolerated and is more commonly recognized as a clinical nutrition compound. |
| Arginine Amino acid / pH adjuster & conditioning agent | Arginine is a basic amino acid used in skincare primarily as a pH buffer/neutralizer and humectant-like conditioning agent that supports skin hydration and barrier function. It is generally well tolerated and often paired with acidic ingredients to balance formulation pH. |
| Oligopeptide-177 Key active Signal peptide / anti-aging active | Oligopeptide-177 is a synthetic signaling peptide used in cosmetic formulations, marketed for its potential to support skin barrier function and modulate cellular signaling associated with aging and inflammation. Robust independent clinical data on its efficacy and safety are limited. |
| Phenylalanine Amino acid / conditioning agent | Phenylalanine is an essential aromatic amino acid used in skincare as a skin-conditioning and humectant agent, and is also studied for its role in melanin synthesis pathways. In topical formulations it generally serves a supportive, hydrating function. |
| Sisymbrium Irio Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Sisymbrium Irio Seed Oil is a plant-derived oil obtained from the seeds of London rocket (Sisymbrium irio), used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent rich in fatty acids. It helps soften skin and support the barrier and is typically used as a base/carrier rather than as a high-potency active. |
| Sodium Chloride Thickener / viscosity adjuster | Sodium chloride (table salt) is commonly used in cosmetics as a thickening and viscosity-control agent, particularly in surfactant-based cleansers, and also acts as a mild abrasive in scrubs. It is generally well tolerated and considered a formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Silica Absorbent/texturizer | Silica is a mineral-derived ingredient (silicon dioxide) used in cosmetics to absorb oil and sebum, improve texture, and act as a bulking, anti-caking, or matting agent. It is generally inert and well tolerated on skin. |
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.