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ACWELL Phyto Active Balancing Cream
ACWELL

ACWELL Phyto Active Balancing Cream

Efficacy100/100IrritancyMedium
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Works for

2 of 2 advertised claims delivered

Moisturizing
Niacinamide, Phytosphingosine + 36 more
Strong evidence
What the product description says
“Phyto Active Balancing Cream”
From product name

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: alanine, arginine.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: arginine, butyrospermum parkii butter.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: niacinamide, phytosphingosine

ArginineKey active· Humectant, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin~0.25–0.45%
Aspartic acidKey active· HumectantEffect: HighAn amino-acid that helps increase skin hydration and might help to slightly improve skin firmness, potentially reducing lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
CysteineKey activeEffect: HighMight help neutralize free radicals in skin and might be helpful against hyperpigmentation~0.15–0.25%
Beta-glucanKey activeEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, calm down inflammation and irritation, restore the barrier function and support wound healing. It can be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
Butyrospermum parkii butterKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~1.2–1.5%
LysineKey activeEffect: HighAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
IsoleucineKey activeEffect: HighAn amino acid that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and support skin's barrier function~0.2–0.35%
NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.4–1.7%
GlycineKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help restore the skin barrier function~0.25–0.45%
GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~4.7–5.7%
PhytosphingosineHero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of lipid that is naturally present in skin. It might help in repairing skin barrier function and has anti-bacterial effect~0.3–0.55%
PolymethylsilsesquioxaneKey activeEffect: HighA silicone that improves product texture and helps dissolve other ingredients. Can form a non-greasy film on the skin to prevent moisture loss~0.3–0.55%
Limnanthes alba seed oilKey active· EmollientEffect: HighThis oil's cmposition is closest to rapeseed oil. It is a very stable oil and serves as an emoillient~0.75–1.1%
HistidineKey active· HumectantEffect: High~0.2–0.35%
SerineKey activeEffect: HighAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
ThreonineKey activeEffect: HighAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.4%
Glutamic acidKey active· HumectantEffect: HighAn amino-acid that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.25–0.5%
TyrosineKey activeEffect: High~0.25–0.45%
Vinyl dimethiconeKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA type of silicone that helps to create a nice product texture and soften the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.55%
Saccharide isomerateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.25–0.45%
AlanineKey active· HumectantEffect: HighAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to lighten the skin, but solid evidence is lacking~0.25–0.45%
Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin)Key active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~2.3–2.8%
Lupinus albus seed extractKey activeEffect: MediumA plant extract that helps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.4–0.6%
Moringa oleifera seed extractKey activeEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effect~0.35–0.6%
ProlineKey activeEffect: Medium~0.25–0.45%
AdenosineKey activeEffect: MediumMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.25–0.45%
Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~3.1–3.7%
Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~1.6–2%
Hydrogenated vegetable oilKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn oil from a mixture of different vegetables. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin~1–1.2%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.3–0.55%
Caprylyl methiconeEffect: LowA type of silicone that helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product finish on the skin~0.25–0.5%
Hydrolyzed hibiscus esculentus extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might contain a peptide (Myoxinol). It could be helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-aging effect, but the research is lacking and it is rarely used in a high enough concentration~0.45–0.65%
Behenyl alcohol· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowNon-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient~1.9–2.3%
C12-16 alcohols· EmollientEffect: LowHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product's texture~0.15–0.25%
Pentylene glycol· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture~0.3–0.6%
Palmitic acid· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that is naturally present in skin and helps soften it~0.3–0.6%
Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~0.25–0.5%
TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.25–0.5%
Anti-aging
Adenosine, Niacinamide + 9 more
Strong evidence
What the product description says
“Featuring B5 Complex, which includes Licorice Root Extract, helps revive tired, pre-mature aging skin.”
Source: Yesstyle

This product can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and firmness because it contains adenosine, niacinamide.

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: aspartic acid, lysine, serine, threonine.

Keep in mind that it typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice any results because the changes that are needed to improve fine lines and elasticity happen in the deeper layers of the skin. No topical anti-aging product can “erase” wrinkles or fully reverse signs of aging.

AdenosineKey activeEffect: HighMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.25–0.45%
NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.4–1.7%
SerineKey activeEffect: MediumAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
Aspartic acidKey activeEffect: MediumAn amino-acid that helps increase skin hydration and might help to slightly improve skin firmness, potentially reducing lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
ThreonineKey activeEffect: MediumAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.2–0.4%
LysineKey activeEffect: MediumAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
Beta-glucanEffect: LowHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, calm down inflammation and irritation, restore the barrier function and support wound healing. It can be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
Butyrospermum parkii butterEffect: LowA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~1.2–1.5%
Limnanthes alba seed oilEffect: LowThis oil's cmposition is closest to rapeseed oil. It is a very stable oil and serves as an emoillient~0.75–1.1%
Hydrolyzed hibiscus esculentus extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might contain a peptide (Myoxinol). It could be helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-aging effect, but the research is lacking and it is rarely used in a high enough concentration~0.45–0.65%
TocopherolEffect: Low, below effective dosePure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.25–0.5%
Evens skin tone
Not advertised by the brand · Niacinamide, Alanine + 2 more
Strong evidence

This product can help reduce hypepigmentation and even out the skin tone because it contains the following effective ingredients: niacinamide

The following ingredient (ingredients) in this product might be helpful, but there is no evidence to confirm that it actually can help even out the skin tone: alanine, cysteine, glycyrrhiza uralensis root extract.

Keep in mind that you would need to apply any topical skincare targetted at hypigmentation consistently for a couple of months to get a result. No topical skincare product can help get rid of hyperpigmentation (including post-acne marks and age spots) instantly.

NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.4–1.7%
AlanineEffect: LowAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to lighten the skin, but solid evidence is lacking~0.25–0.45%
CysteineEffect: LowMight help neutralize free radicals in skin and might be helpful against hyperpigmentation~0.15–0.25%
Glycyrrhiza uralensis root extractEffect: LowLicorice root extract. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation~0.45–0.65%
Anti-blemish
Not advertised by the brand · Niacinamide, Beta-glucan + 1 more
Strong evidence

This product can help reduce breakouts and clogged pores because it contains the following ingredient: niacinamide. This ingredient is used for treating acne and can have a noticeable effect.

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.4–1.7%
Beta-glucanEffect: LowHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, calm down inflammation and irritation, restore the barrier function and support wound healing. It can be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
PhytosphingosineEffect: LowA type of lipid that is naturally present in skin. It might help in repairing skin barrier function and has anti-bacterial effect~0.3–0.55%
Anti-oxidation
Not advertised by the brand · Cysteine, Salvia miltiorrhiza root extract + 6 more
Moderate evidence

This product contains antioxidants (cysteine) that might be able to help neutralize free radicals in skin to lessen the damage it gets from the UV light (sun). There is not enough evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin though.

CysteineKey activeEffect: MediumMight help neutralize free radicals in skin and might be helpful against hyperpigmentation~0.15–0.25%
Salvia miltiorrhiza root extractEffect: LowAn aromatic plant root extract with a mint-like smell. Can be irritating. Used as a fragrance. Might have some anti-oxidant effect~0.3–0.55%
Beta-glucanEffect: LowHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, calm down inflammation and irritation, restore the barrier function and support wound healing. It can be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.45%
Butyrospermum parkii butterEffect: LowA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~1.2–1.5%
AdenosineEffect: LowMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.25–0.45%
Moringa oleifera seed extractEffect: LowHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effect~0.35–0.6%
Limnanthes alba seed oilEffect: LowThis oil's cmposition is closest to rapeseed oil. It is a very stable oil and serves as an emoillient~0.75–1.1%
TocopherolUnder-dosedEffect: HighPure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.25–0.5%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
1 strong irritant: Salvia miltiorrhiza root extract
Medium risk
We flagged 13 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Salvia miltiorrhiza root extractAn aromatic plant root extract with a mint-like smell. Can be irritating. Used as a fragrance. Might have some anti-oxidant effectHigh~0.3–0.55%est.
1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~0.5–0.75%est.
Glycyrrhiza uralensis root extractLicorice root extract. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentationMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Hydrolyzed hibiscus esculentus extractA plant extract that might contain a peptide (Myoxinol). It could be helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-aging effect, but the research is lacking and it is rarely used in a high enough concentrationMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Lupinus albus seed extractA plant extract that helps soften the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.4–0.6%est.
Moringa oleifera seed extractHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effectMedium~0.35–0.6%est.
Pentylene glycolUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product textureMedium~0.3–0.6%est.
Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymerA gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finishMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.15–0.25%est.
Sodium citrateHelps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve productsMedium~0.15–0.25%est.
C12-16 alcoholsHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product's textureMedium~0.15–0.25%est.
Comedogenic
3 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
3 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Butyrospermum parkii butterA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals3/5~1.2–1.5%est.
Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~1.6–2%est.
Hydrogenated vegetable oilAn oil from a mixture of different vegetables. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin2/5~1–1.2%est.
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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Glycerin~4.7–5.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin
Propanediol~3.9–4.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Acts as a solvent for other ingredients. Speeds up the absorption of other ingredients into the skin

More about Propanediol
Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate~3.1–3.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate
Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin)~2.3–2.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin)
Behenyl alcohol~1.9–2.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Non-drying alcohol that helps water and oil mix together. Also serves as an emollient

More about Behenyl alcohol
Cetearyl alcohol~1.6–2%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture

More about Cetearyl alcohol
Niacinamide~1.4–1.7%
Hero · Moisturizing, Anti-blemish
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-blemishReduces irritationAnti-inflammatoryReduces rednessAntibacterial

Is proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production

More about Niacinamide
Butyrospermum parkii butter~1.2–1.5%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

A great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals

More about Butyrospermum parkii butter
Hydrogenated vegetable oil~1–1.2%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Moisturizing

An oil from a mixture of different vegetables. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrogenated vegetable oil
Limnanthes alba seed oil~0.75–1.1%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

This oil's cmposition is closest to rapeseed oil. It is a very stable oil and serves as an emoillient

More about Limnanthes alba seed oil
Hydrogenated lecithin~0.6–0.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps to retain moisture by creating a protective barrier on the skin. Rich in fatty acids. Improves product texture and helps with the penetration of other ingredients.

More about Hydrogenated lecithin
1,2-hexanediol~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol
Dioscorea japonica root extract~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Dioscorea japonica root extract
Glycyrrhiza uralensis root extract~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin tone

Licorice root extract. Might be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation

More about Glycyrrhiza uralensis root extract
Hydrolyzed hibiscus esculentus extract~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

A plant extract that might contain a peptide (Myoxinol). It could be helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-aging effect, but the research is lacking and it is rarely used in a high enough concentration

More about Hydrolyzed hibiscus esculentus extract
Lupinus albus seed extract~0.4–0.6%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

A plant extract that helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Lupinus albus seed extract
Moringa oleifera seed extract~0.35–0.6%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant effect

More about Moringa oleifera seed extract
Salvia miltiorrhiza root extract~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

An aromatic plant root extract with a mint-like smell. Can be irritating. Used as a fragrance. Might have some anti-oxidant effect

More about Salvia miltiorrhiza root extract
Sciadopitys verticillata root extract~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Sciadopitys verticillata root extract
Caprylyl methicone~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A type of silicone that helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product finish on the skin

More about Caprylyl methicone
Pentylene glycol~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture

More about Pentylene glycol
Polymethylsilsesquioxane~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A silicone that improves product texture and helps dissolve other ingredients. Can form a non-greasy film on the skin to prevent moisture loss

More about Polymethylsilsesquioxane
Vinyl dimethicone~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A type of silicone that helps to create a nice product texture and soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Vinyl dimethicone
Palmitic acid~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that is naturally present in skin and helps soften it

More about Palmitic acid
Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finish

More about Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer
Tromethamine~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps adjust pH in products

More about Tromethamine
Caprylyl glycol~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Adenosine~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-agingMoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Might help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)

More about Adenosine
Sodium phytate~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to stabilize product formulations

More about Sodium phytate
Phytosphingosine~0.3–0.55%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-blemishAnti-inflammatory

A type of lipid that is naturally present in skin. It might help in repairing skin barrier function and has anti-bacterial effect

More about Phytosphingosine
Beta-glucan~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryReduces irritationAnti-blemishAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, calm down inflammation and irritation, restore the barrier function and support wound healing. It can be helpful in reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Beta-glucan
Butylene glycol~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol
Saccharide isomerate~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Saccharide isomerate
Tocopherol~0.25–0.5%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationMoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-aging

Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself

More about Tocopherol
Glycine~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help restore the skin barrier function

More about Glycine
Serine~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

An amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

More about Serine
Glutamic acid~0.25–0.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An amino-acid that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Glutamic acid
Aspartic acid~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

An amino-acid that helps increase skin hydration and might help to slightly improve skin firmness, potentially reducing lines and wrinkles

More about Aspartic acid
Leucine~0.25–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Leucine
Alanine~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingEvens skin tone

An amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to lighten the skin, but solid evidence is lacking

More about Alanine
Lysine~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

An amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

More about Lysine
Arginine~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An amino acid that is naturally present in skin and helps keep it hydrated. When used together with AHAs, it can reduce their irritating effect on the skin

More about Arginine
Tyrosine~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing
More about Tyrosine
Phenylalanine~0.25–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Phenylalanine
Proline~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing
More about Proline
Threonine~0.2–0.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

An amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

More about Threonine
Valine~0.2–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Valine
Isoleucine~0.2–0.35%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An amino acid that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and support skin's barrier function

More about Isoleucine
Histidine~0.2–0.35%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing
More about Histidine
Cysteine~0.15–0.25%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidationEvens skin tone

Might help neutralize free radicals in skin and might be helpful against hyperpigmentation

More about Cysteine
Methionine~0.15–0.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Methionine
Citric acid~0.15–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Can work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pH

More about Citric acid
Sodium citrate~0.15–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps to control the skin's pH level. Maintains the skin's natural film of amino-lactic acids and oils. Helps to preserve products

More about Sodium citrate
C12-16 alcohols~0.15–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and improve the product's texture

More about C12-16 alcohols
Carbomer~0.1–0.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer
Ingredient list view

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin), Behenyl alcohol, Cetearyl alcohol, Niacinamide, Butyrospermum parkii butter, Hydrogenated vegetable oil, Limnanthes alba seed oil, Hydrogenated lecithin, 1,2-hexanediol, Dioscorea japonica root extract, Glycyrrhiza uralensis root extract, Hydrolyzed hibiscus esculentus extract, Lupinus albus seed extract, Moringa oleifera seed extract, Salvia miltiorrhiza root extract, Sciadopitys verticillata root extract, Caprylyl methicone, Pentylene glycol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Vinyl dimethicone, Palmitic acid, Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, Tromethamine, Caprylyl glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Sodium phytate, Phytosphingosine, Beta-glucan, Butylene glycol, Saccharide isomerate, Tocopherol, Glycine, Serine, Glutamic acid, Aspartic acid, Leucine, Alanine, Lysine, Arginine, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Threonine, Valine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Cysteine, Methionine, Citric acid, Sodium citrate, C12-16 alcohols, Carbomer

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Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
ACWELLPhyto Active Balancing CreamYOUR PRODUCTIt'S SKINPower 10 Formula Powerful Genius CreamVARUZAUltra Moisturizing Derma Cream with 17 Amino AcidsNEOGEN X SUR.MEDICProbiotics Youth Repair Cream
Match—91%88%86%
Price$23.80$23.04−$0.76$25.72+$1.92$24.30+$0.50
Shared key ingredients—17 of 2318 of 2314 of 23
Key difference—Ceramide NpMadecassosideHexapeptide-11
Irritancy Medium Medium Medium Medium
Drying alcohol————
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Product summary

Based on the ingredients included, "ACWELL - Phyto Active Balancing Cream" works well for moisturizing the skin. To work well, any moisturizer needs to include a combination of water-binding and emollient ingredients. ACWELL - Phyto Active Balancing Cream ticks this box. Humectants in this product (alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid and glycerin) help to increase the water content in the upper layer of the skin. (These ingredients do so by "capturing" water molecules from the outside air or from within the deeper layers of the skin). Phytosphingosine, limnanthes alba seed oil, vinyl dimethicone, arginine and butyrospermum parkii butter in this product help decrease the water evoporation from the skin, so that it stays hydrated for longer. These ingredients also soften the skin and take away the feeling of tightness and dryness.

Ingredient callouts

  • Another benefit is that this moisturizer contain ceramides (phytosphingosine 0.30% - 0.55%). Ceramides are an important part of our natural skin barrier. The Ceramides used in skincare are synthetic or come from plants. They help soften the skin and can help "fill the gaps" in the skin barrier, keeping the skin hydrated and resilient for longer.
  • Adenosine 0.25% - 0.45%. It is a compound that in involved in many biological processes inside the skin cells. According one high-quality clinical trial, topical Adenosine in low concentrations can somewhat help improve "deep wrinkles" - the wrinkles that appear with age in places where our faces are most dynamic (for example, on the forehead or in the corners of the eyes).
This product contains ingredients that could be beneficial, but their concentrations are too low in this formulation: vitamin e

Irritation risk

This moisturizer contains actives that can be irritating. We assess the overall irritancy of this moisturizer to be medium. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here

You can see the detailed formula review with the breakdown of all actives in the product and the full ingredient list with estimated concentrations in the tables below.

Price

The product retails from 23.80$ up to 34.00$ in the United States.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 27 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    The influence of alkane chain length on the skin irritation potential of 1,2-alkanediolsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. 5
    Moringa oleifera Seeds and Oil: Characteristics and Uses for Human Healthncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    Safety Assessment of Tromethamine as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
ACWELL Phyto Active Balancing Cream
ACWELLPhyto Active Balancing Cream
Buy at Yesstyle$23.80Amazon

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Buy at Yesstyle$23.80Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.