Below is every ingredient in Conscious Chemist Multi Peptide Retinol Lightweight Gel Night Cream 50Ml 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.
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is a synthetic palmitoylated peptide (sequence Gly-His-Lys) used in cosmetics to signal fibroblasts and support collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis. It is commonly combined with other peptides in anti-aging and firming formulations.
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is a palmitoylated synthetic peptide used in cosmetic formulations, primarily marketed to help reduce inflammatory signaling and support a more even, firmer skin appearance. It is commonly paired with other peptides such as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 in anti-aging products.
SH-Oligopeptide-1 is a synthetic version of human epidermal growth factor (EGF) used in skincare to support cell proliferation, wound healing, and signs of skin repair and rejuvenation. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and post-procedure formulations at low concentrations.
SH-Oligopeptide-2 is a synthetic peptide corresponding to insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), used in cosmetic formulations to support cell proliferation, skin repair, and anti-aging effects. It is typically incorporated into serums and creams aimed at improving skin texture and firmness.
SH-Polypeptide-1 is a synthetic or recombinant form of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF/FGF-2) used in skincare to stimulate fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and skin repair. It is typically included in anti-aging and wound-healing formulations to support dermal regeneration.
SH-Polypeptide-9 is a synthetic form of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) used in cosmetics to support skin repair, angiogenesis-related processes, and overall skin rejuvenation. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and recovery formulations to promote tissue regeneration.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild irritation or stinging | Rare | Depends on the actual emollient/conditioning agents used, not the descriptor itself. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Possible with specific underlying ingredients (e.g., fragrances, lanolin) responsible for the softening effect. |
| Comedogenicity/clogged pores | Uncommon | Some occlusive emollients may contribute to follicular occlusion in acne-prone skin. |
| Mild transient skin irritation or redness | Uncommon | Generally mild and resolves after discontinuation; often related to formulation rather than the peptide itself. |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic sensitization | Rare | Isolated reports; patch testing may be warranted in sensitive individuals. |
| Stinging or tingling on application | Rare | Usually temporary and associated with compromised skin barrier. |
| Mild transient irritation or redness | Rare | Generally well tolerated; localized irritation may occur, often related to other formulation components. |
| Contact sensitization or allergic dermatitis | Very rare | Isolated reports; peptides are considered low-allergenicity but sensitization remains possible. |
| Stinging on application | Rare | Usually mild and short-lived, more likely on compromised or sensitive skin. |
| Mild skin irritation | Rare | Occasional transient redness or stinging, generally in sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Contact dermatitis / allergic reaction | Very rare | Isolated reports; non-ionic emulsifiers are generally low-sensitizing. |
| Comedogenicity (pore clogging) | Rare | Possible in acne-prone individuals depending on formulation concentration. |
| Skin irritation | Rare | Mild irritation or redness possible, generally in sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Cross-reactivity with other fatty alcohols | Rare | Individuals sensitized to cetyl or stearyl alcohol may react to the blend. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| leaving the skin soft Emollient/skin-conditioning claim | "Leaving the skin soft" is not a defined chemical ingredient but a marketing or sensory descriptor indicating an emollient or moisturizing effect, typically attributed to humectants, occlusives, or conditioning agents in a formulation. As a descriptor it has no intrinsic pharmacological action of its own. |
| Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 Key active Signal peptide / anti-aging active | Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is a synthetic palmitoylated peptide (sequence Gly-His-Lys) used in cosmetics to signal fibroblasts and support collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis. It is commonly combined with other peptides in anti-aging and firming formulations. |
| Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 Key active Anti-aging signal peptide | Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is a palmitoylated synthetic peptide used in cosmetic formulations, primarily marketed to help reduce inflammatory signaling and support a more even, firmer skin appearance. It is commonly paired with other peptides such as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 in anti-aging products. |
| Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters Emulsifier / emollient | Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters is a polyglycerol ester derived from olive oil used primarily as a non-ionic emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent in creams and lotions. It helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions while providing a softening, conditioning effect on the skin. |
| Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate Emulsifier | Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate is a lactic acid and stearic acid–derived anionic emulsifier used to blend oil and water phases and stabilize formulations. It also offers mild conditioning and skin-softening properties. |
| Cetearyl Alcohol Emollient/emulsifier | Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol blend (cetyl and stearyl alcohol) used in skincare as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and thickening agent. It helps soften skin and keep oil and water phases blended in creams and lotions. |
| Cetyl Alcohol Emollient / emulsifier | Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used in skincare and cosmetics as an emollient, thickener, and emulsion stabilizer. It softens skin and helps maintain the consistency and texture of creams and lotions. |
| Fractionated Coconut Oil Emollient / carrier oil | Fractionated coconut oil (caprylic/capric triglyceride) is a lightweight, processed coconut-derived oil used as an emollient and carrier that improves spreadability and skin feel. It is more stable and less greasy than virgin coconut oil due to removal of long-chain fatty acids. |
| Glyceryl Monostearate Se Emulsifier/emollient | Glyceryl Monostearate SE (self-emulsifying) is a fatty acid ester of glycerin used primarily as a nonionic emulsifier, thickener, and emollient to stabilize oil-in-water creams and lotions. It helps maintain texture and skin softness rather than providing an active therapeutic effect. |
| Lecithin Emollient / Emulsifier | Lecithin is a naturally occurring phospholipid (commonly derived from soybean or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and penetration enhancer. It helps stabilize oil-and-water formulations and supports the skin barrier by mimicking natural lipids. |
| Acetyl Glutamine Humectant / amino acid derivative | Acetyl Glutamine is an acetylated form of the amino acid glutamine used in skincare as a humectant and conditioning agent. It helps support skin hydration and the skin barrier, and is generally considered a mild, well-tolerated ingredient. |
| Sh-Oligopeptide-1 Key active Growth factor / cell-signaling peptide | SH-Oligopeptide-1 is a synthetic version of human epidermal growth factor (EGF) used in skincare to support cell proliferation, wound healing, and signs of skin repair and rejuvenation. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and post-procedure formulations at low concentrations. |
| Sh-Oligopeptide-2 Key active Cell-communicating peptide / signaling growth factor analog | SH-Oligopeptide-2 is a synthetic peptide corresponding to insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), used in cosmetic formulations to support cell proliferation, skin repair, and anti-aging effects. It is typically incorporated into serums and creams aimed at improving skin texture and firmness. |
| Sh-Polypeptide-1 Key active Growth factor (signaling peptide) | SH-Polypeptide-1 is a synthetic or recombinant form of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF/FGF-2) used in skincare to stimulate fibroblast activity, collagen synthesis, and skin repair. It is typically included in anti-aging and wound-healing formulations to support dermal regeneration. |
| Sh-Polypeptide-9 Key active Growth factor / signaling peptide | SH-Polypeptide-9 is a synthetic form of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) used in cosmetics to support skin repair, angiogenesis-related processes, and overall skin rejuvenation. It is typically incorporated into anti-aging and recovery formulations to promote tissue regeneration. |
| Sh-Polypeptide-11 Key active Bioactive peptide / cell-signaling agent | SH-Polypeptide-11 is a synthetic recombinant growth factor peptide (related to vascular endothelial growth factor signaling) used in cosmetic formulations to support skin renewal, repair, and microcirculation. It is included in anti-aging and skin-conditioning products for its proposed role in stimulating cellular activity and barrier recovery. |
| Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract Key active Skin conditioning / moisturizing humectant | Bacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract is a fermentation-derived ingredient produced by culturing soybeans with Bacillus species, yielding peptides, amino acids, and polysaccharides (including polyglutamic acid). It is used in skincare primarily for its hydrating, conditioning, and skin-soothing properties. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Marula Oil Emollient / antioxidant facial oil | Marula oil is a lightweight plant oil rich in oleic acid and antioxidants (vitamin E, phenolics) used to moisturize, soften, and reduce transepidermal water loss in skin and hair. It is generally well tolerated and primarily acts as an emollient base rather than a targeted 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. |
| Hydroxycinnamic Acid Key active Antioxidant | Hydroxycinnamic acid is a phenolic compound (the parent of derivatives like ferulic, caffeic, and p-coumaric acids) used in skincare for its antioxidant and free-radical scavenging properties. It is often incorporated to help protect against oxidative and UV-induced skin damage. |
| Baobab Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Baobab oil is a plant-derived emollient rich in fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, palmitic) and vitamins A, D, E, and F, used to moisturize, soften, and support the skin barrier. It is valued for its non-greasy feel and antioxidant content in moisturizers and hair products. |
| Lysolecithin Emulsifier / penetration enhancer | Lysolecithin is a hydrolyzed form of lecithin used in skincare primarily as an emulsifier and delivery agent that helps blend oil and water phases and can enhance the penetration of other ingredients. It is generally well tolerated and functions as a formulation/base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Hyaluronic Acid Key active Humectant / hydrating agent | Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin, helping to maintain hydration and improve the appearance of plumpness and smoothness. It is widely used in moisturizers and serums and is generally well tolerated across skin types. |
| 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. |
| L-Arginine Amino acid / pH adjuster & humectant | L-Arginine is a basic amino acid used in skincare as a humectant, antioxidant, and pH-adjusting agent that helps neutralize acidic actives. It also supports skin barrier function and may contribute to hydration and nitric oxide-related microcirculation. |
| Linolenic Acid Key active Skin-conditioning / barrier-repair fatty acid | Linolenic acid is an omega-3 polyunsaturated essential fatty acid used in skincare to support the skin's lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and provide emollient and soothing benefits. It is also studied for mild anti-inflammatory and comedolytic effects. |
| 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. |
| Sodium Lactate Humectant / NMF component | Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid and a key component of skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), used to hydrate the skin and buffer formulation pH. It also has mild exfoliating and humectant properties that help maintain skin moisture and barrier function. |
| Polyurethane Crosspolymer-1 Film former / texture agent | Polyurethane Crosspolymer-1 is a synthetic crosslinked polymer used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a film-forming and viscosity/texture modifier. It helps create smooth, even films on skin, improving spreadability, wear, and sensory feel without providing a biological treatment effect. |
| Encapsulated Retinol Key active Anti-aging active (retinoid) | Encapsulated retinol is a vitamin A derivative enclosed in a delivery system (e.g., liposomes, polymers, or microspheres) to improve stability and allow gradual release into the skin. It promotes cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and helps reduce fine lines, uneven tone, and signs of photoaging, often with reduced irritation compared to free retinol. |
| Polyvinyl Alcohol Film-forming agent / viscosity modifier | Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic, water-soluble polymer commonly used in peel-off masks and as a film-forming, thickening, and binding agent in cosmetic formulations. It dries to form a flexible film on the skin that can be peeled away, often used for texture and adhesive properties rather than therapeutic effect. |
| Licorice Root Extract Key active Brightening / anti-inflammatory | Licorice root extract is a botanical ingredient valued in skincare for its skin-brightening and soothing properties, largely attributed to compounds such as glabridin, liquiritin, and glycyrrhizic acid. It is used to help reduce hyperpigmentation, calm irritation, and provide antioxidant benefits. |
| D-L Tocopherol Acetate Key active Antioxidant / vitamin E derivative | D-L Tocopherol Acetate (tocopheryl acetate) is a stable, esterified form of vitamin E used in skincare as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent. It helps protect skin lipids from oxidative damage and is converted to active tocopherol in the skin. |
| Vitamin B5 Humectant/skin-conditioning agent | Vitamin B5 (panthenol/pantothenic acid) is a moisturizing and soothing ingredient that helps hydrate skin, support barrier function, and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is widely used in skincare and haircare for its emollient and wound-healing-supportive properties. |
| 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. |
| Benzyl Alcohol Preservative / solvent | Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol used primarily as a preservative and solvent in cosmetic formulations, and it also provides mild fragrance and viscosity-reducing properties. It is approved for use as a preservative at concentrations up to about 1% in leave-on and rinse-off products. |
| Glyceryl Laurate Emulsifier / emollient / antimicrobial | Glyceryl laurate (glyceryl monolaurate) is a glycerol ester of lauric acid used in cosmetics as a non-ionic emulsifier, emollient, and surfactant, with mild antimicrobial properties that can support preservative systems. It is generally considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| 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. |
| Melanin Key active Pigment / photoprotective antioxidant | Melanin is a natural biological pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye coloration, providing protection against UV radiation by absorbing and scattering harmful rays. In topical formulations it is studied for its antioxidant and photoprotective 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.