What's In My Jar
Cipher Skincare C-Shield
Cipher Skincare

Cipher Skincare C-Shield

Efficacy75/100IrritancyMedium
See all ingredients

Works for

Evens skin tone
Ascorbic acid, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate + 2 more
Works well
What the product description says
“4-butylresorcinol , a powerful tyrosinase inhibitor, interrupts the melanin production pathway to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory marks.”
Source: Cipher Skincare

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

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: ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, madecassoside.

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.

Ascorbic acidHeroEffect: HighThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging~5.6–6.9%
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateKey activeEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~4.3–5.3%
MadecassosideEffect: LowAn antioxidant that is typically derived from plant Centella Asiatica. It can help neutralize free radicals in skin and support skin barrier function. It could, however, itself be irritating. It is often unstable in formulations~0.2–0.4%
Lactic acidUnder-dosedAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.2–0.4%
Anti-aging
Ascorbic acid, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate + 4 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Palmitoyl tripeptide-38 works to smooth fine lines and reinforce the skin’s structure, enhancing overall resilience.”
Source: Cipher Skincare

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

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, madecassoside, palmitoyl tripeptide-38.

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.

Ascorbic acidHeroEffect: HighThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging~5.6–6.9%
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateKey activeEffect: MediumA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~4.3–5.3%
Palmitoyl tripeptide-38Key activeEffect: MediumA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.4%
MadecassosideKey activeEffect: MediumAn antioxidant that is typically derived from plant Centella Asiatica. It can help neutralize free radicals in skin and support skin barrier function. It could, however, itself be irritating. It is often unstable in formulations~0.2–0.4%
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~0.2–0.4%
Lactic acidUnder-dosedAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.2–0.4%
Moisturizing
Palmitoyl tripeptide-38, Madecassoside + 16 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Snow mushroom polysaccharides and glycerin deliver deep, lasting hydration by binding water to the skin for enhanced elasticity and a plump, refreshed appearance.”
Source: Cipher Skincare

This product contains good ingredients to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. These ingredients are called "humectants": anhydroxylitol, glycerin.

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. If the air is dry, humectants can speed up the moisture loss from the skin. This is why it is a good idea to use another product on top of this one to help "seal in" the moisture (look for ingredients like dimethicone, squalane, oils and butters).

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: madecassoside, palmitoyl tripeptide-38

Palmitoyl tripeptide-38HeroEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.4%
MadecassosideHeroEffect: HighAn antioxidant that is typically derived from plant Centella Asiatica. It can help neutralize free radicals in skin and support skin barrier function. It could, however, itself be irritating. It is often unstable in formulations~0.2–0.4%
Peg/ppg-14/7 dimethyl etherKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin. It also forms a protective on its surface to reduce water loss~1.6–1.9%
UndecaneKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps create a non-greasy finish on the skin~0.75–1.1%
EctoinKey activeEffect: HighSoftens the upper layer of the skin and can support skin barrier function~0.45–0.7%
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~0.3–0.5%
XylitylglucosideKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function~0.3–0.55%
Superoxide dismutaseKey activeEffect: HighAn antioxidant enzyme that is naturally present in skin. It can help support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation in skin. It is used in topical medications for inflammatory skin conditions including atopic dermatitis (eczema) and psoriasis. There are three types of natural Superoxide Dismutase in human skin. The compound used in topical treatments and cosmetics are mimics of typically one of these natural variants~0.25–0.45%
Sodium lactateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Is often used to adjust the pH level of the product~0.25–0.5%
TrioleinKey activeEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.2–0.4%
AnhydroxylitolKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrir function~0.2–0.4%
Chlorella vulgaris extractKey activeEffect: MediumA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties~0.2–0.4%
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate· EmollientEffect: LowA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~4.3–5.3%
Ethyl oleate· EmollientEffect: LowEthyl oleate is a long-chain fatty acid ethyl ester resulting from the formal condensation of the carboxy group of oleic acid with the hydroxy group of ethanol. It derives from an oleic acid. In skincare, it is used to soften the upper layer of the skin, improve the product texture and smell~0.45–0.7%
Hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to stabilize product formulations and help soften 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~0.2–0.4%
Caprylic/capric triglycerideUnder-dosedA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~0.3–0.55%
Lactic acidUnder-dosedAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.2–0.4%
Anti-blemish
No ingredient credited for this claim
Not delivered
What the product description says
“A dynamic antioxidant complex shields from free radical damage while tone-correcting actives simultaneously soften visible blemishes, redness, and dark spots.”
Source: N/A

Effective ingredients missing or their concentration is too low.

Anti-oxidation
Side benefit · Ascorbic acid, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate + 5 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (ascorbic acid, ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, madecassoside, superoxide dismutase) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

Ascorbic acidHeroEffect: HighThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging~5.6–6.9%
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateKey activeEffect: HighA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)~4.3–5.3%
Superoxide dismutaseKey activeEffect: HighAn antioxidant enzyme that is naturally present in skin. It can help support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation in skin. It is used in topical medications for inflammatory skin conditions including atopic dermatitis (eczema) and psoriasis. There are three types of natural Superoxide Dismutase in human skin. The compound used in topical treatments and cosmetics are mimics of typically one of these natural variants~0.25–0.45%
MadecassosideKey activeEffect: HighAn antioxidant that is typically derived from plant Centella Asiatica. It can help neutralize free radicals in skin and support skin barrier function. It could, however, itself be irritating. It is often unstable in formulations~0.2–0.4%
OryzanolEffect: LowAn anti-oxidant that helps stabilize product formulations. Might help neutralise free radicals in skin~0.3–0.55%
Chlorella vulgaris extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties~0.2–0.4%
TocopherolUnder-dosedPure 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~0.2–0.4%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
20 flagged ingredients
Medium risk
We flagged 20 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Ascorbic acidThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of agingHigh~5.6–6.9%est.
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitateA vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)Medium~4.3–5.3%est.
Glyceryl oleate citrateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~1.8–2.2%est.
UndecaneHelps create a non-greasy finish on the skinMedium~0.75–1.1%est.
Ethyl oleateEthyl oleate is a long-chain fatty acid ethyl ester resulting from the formal condensation of the carboxy group of oleic acid with the hydroxy group of ethanol. It derives from an oleic acid. In skincare, it is used to soften the upper layer of the skin, improve the product texture and smellMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Sodium lactateHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Is often used to adjust the pH level of the productMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
MadecassosideAn antioxidant that is typically derived from plant Centella Asiatica. It can help neutralize free radicals in skin and support skin barrier function. It could, however, itself be irritating. It is often unstable in formulationsMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Hydroxypropyl starch phosphateHelps oil and water mix together and used to stabilize product formulationsMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Chlorella vulgaris extractA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory propertiesMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
TridecaneHelps create a dry, non-greasy finish of the skinMedium~0.2–0.35%est.
Polyglyceryl-10 laurateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Caprylic/capric triglycerideA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerinMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
HydroxyacetophenoneUsed to increase effectiveness of preservativesMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Hydroxypropyl cyclodextrinUsed to stabilize product formulations and help soften the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Propyl gallateHelps preserve product formulations and can mask the smell of other ingredients in a productMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Lactic acidAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)Medium~0.2–0.4%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.2–0.35%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.3%est.
Sodium metabisulfiteA preservativeMedium~0.1–0.2%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.05–0.15%est.
Comedogenic
1 ingredient rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
1 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
Chlorella vulgaris extractA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties3/5~0.2–0.4%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
Ascorbic acid~5.6–6.9%
Hero · Anti-aging, Anti-oxidation, Evens skin toneIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidation

The most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging

More about Ascorbic acid
Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate~4.3–5.3%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin toneMoisturizing

A vitamin C derivative. Studies show that is might be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, but there are no studies confirming that it is effectively converted into the bioavailable form of Vitamin C in skin. It is not clear how this derivative compares in effectiveness to the topical application of bioavailable form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

More about Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate
Dimethyl isosorbide~3–3.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to dissolve other ingredients in a product and can enhance their ability to penetrate the skin

More about Dimethyl isosorbide
Glycereth-26~2.2–2.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps create a thicker product consistency

More about Glycereth-26
Glyceryl oleate citrate~1.8–2.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Glyceryl oleate citrate
Peg/ppg-14/7 dimethyl ether~1.6–1.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin. It also forms a protective on its surface to reduce water loss

More about Peg/ppg-14/7 dimethyl ether
Propanediol~1.3–1.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

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

More about Propanediol
Methyl methacrylate/glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer~1.1–1.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Methyl methacrylate/glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer
Undecane~0.75–1.1%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps create a non-greasy finish on the skin

More about Undecane
Maltodextrin~0.6–0.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Mattifying

Used to stabilize the product formulation and can help absorb oil

More about Maltodextrin
Ectoin~0.45–0.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Softens the upper layer of the skin and can support skin barrier function

More about Ectoin
Ethyl oleate~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Ethyl oleate is a long-chain fatty acid ethyl ester resulting from the formal condensation of the carboxy group of oleic acid with the hydroxy group of ethanol. It derives from an oleic acid. In skincare, it is used to soften the upper layer of the skin, improve the product texture and smell

More about Ethyl oleate
Gallic acid~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Gallic acid
Diglucosyl gallic acid~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Diglucosyl gallic acid
4-butylresorcinol~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about 4-butylresorcinol
Oryzanol~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidation

An anti-oxidant that helps stabilize product formulations. Might help neutralise free radicals in skin

More about Oryzanol
Xylitylglucoside~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function

More about Xylitylglucoside
Sodium lactate~0.25–0.5%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Is often used to adjust the pH level of the product

More about Sodium lactate
Superoxide dismutase~0.25–0.45%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationMoisturizingAnti-inflammatory

An antioxidant enzyme that is naturally present in skin. It can help support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation in skin. It is used in topical medications for inflammatory skin conditions including atopic dermatitis (eczema) and psoriasis. There are three types of natural Superoxide Dismutase in human skin. The compound used in topical treatments and cosmetics are mimics of typically one of these natural variants

More about Superoxide dismutase
Glycerin~0.3–0.5%
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
Palmitoyl tripeptide-38~0.25–0.4%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Palmitoyl tripeptide-38
Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide~0.25–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide
Madecassoside~0.2–0.4%
Hero · MoisturizingIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin tone

An antioxidant that is typically derived from plant Centella Asiatica. It can help neutralize free radicals in skin and support skin barrier function. It could, however, itself be irritating. It is often unstable in formulations

More about Madecassoside
Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps oil and water mix together and used to stabilize product formulations

More about Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate
Chlorella vulgaris extract~0.2–0.4%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidation

A plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

More about Chlorella vulgaris extract
Anhydroxylitol~0.2–0.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrir function

More about Anhydroxylitol
Triolein~0.2–0.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Triolein
Glyceryl dioleate~0.25–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Glyceryl dioleate
Tridecane~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps create a dry, non-greasy finish of the skin

More about Tridecane
Tocopherol~0.2–0.4%
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
Xylitol~0.2–0.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function

More about Xylitol
Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6~0.25–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6
Polyglyceryl-10 laurate~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polyglyceryl-10 laurate
Caprylic/capric triglyceride~0.3–0.55%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin

More about Caprylic/capric triglyceride
Hydroxyacetophenone~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used to increase effectiveness of preservatives

More about Hydroxyacetophenone
Hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to stabilize product formulations and help soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin
Propyl gallate~0.2–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps preserve product formulations and can mask the smell of other ingredients in a product

More about Propyl gallate
Lactic acid~0.2–0.4%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneMoisturizingExfoliationAnti-aging

An exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)

More about Lactic acid
Disodium edta~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Phenoxyethanol~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate~0.2–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to increase stability of product formulations

More about Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Sodium metabisulfite~0.1–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Sodium metabisulfite
Sodium gluconate~0.1–0.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps stabilize product formulations

More about Sodium gluconate
Citric acid~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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

More about Citric acid
Ingredient list view

Water, Ascorbic acid, Ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, Dimethyl isosorbide, Glycereth-26, Glyceryl oleate citrate, Peg/ppg-14/7 dimethyl ether, Propanediol, Methyl methacrylate/glycol dimethacrylate crosspolymer, Undecane, Maltodextrin, Ectoin, Ethyl oleate, Gallic acid, Diglucosyl gallic acid, 4-butylresorcinol, Oryzanol, Xylitylglucoside, Sodium lactate, Superoxide dismutase, Glycerin, Palmitoyl tripeptide-38, Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide, Madecassoside, Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate, Chlorella vulgaris extract, Anhydroxylitol, Triolein, Glyceryl dioleate, Tridecane, Tocopherol, Xylitol, Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6, Polyglyceryl-10 laurate, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin, Propyl gallate, Lactic acid, Disodium edta, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium metabisulfite, Sodium gluconate, Citric acid

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🇦🇺 Cipher Skincare (AU)
$135.00
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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
Cipher SkincareC-ShieldYOUR PRODUCTRegimen LabVitamin XTIA'MVitamin C24 Surprise SerumFig. 1Vitamin C 15% Refillable Treatment Serum to Brighten and Smooth
Match—71%70%70%
Price—$55.00$15.82$38.00
Shared key ingredients—3 of 133 of 135 of 13
Key difference—Ferulic AcidFerulic AcidFerulic Acid
Irritancy Medium Low Low Low
Drying alcohol————
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Product summary

"Cipher Skincare - C-Shield" is effective for: Anti-aging, Moisturizing and Evens skin tone

Ingredient callouts

  • This product also contains Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) 6.00% - 7.30% It can be helpful in stimulating collagen production, neutralizing free radicals in skin and improving pigmentation marks. We recommend to use up this product quickly after opening: Ascorbic Acid degrades fast when it gets in contact with air and light. The moment the product turns orange, it is a sign that a significant share of the vitamin C in it is no longer effective.
  • Peptides (palmitoyl tripeptide-38 0.30% - 0.55%). Peptides are a very big group of ingredients. They all consist of a different combination of aminoacids. Our skin produces Peptides naturally. Some of them work as natural antibiotics, promote wound-healing and production of collagen. The scientists are still studying how effective the topical application of Peptides is, but it is very likely that theynare helpful. Peptides might be able to support skin barrier restoration and even have an anti-aging benefit. At the very least, they certainly help attract water to the skin and support the hydration in this way.
  • Actives derived from an extract of the Centella Asiatica plant (also known as Gotu Kola) - madecassoside 0.25% - 0.50% The Centella Asiatica Actives, even in low concentration, can help reduce inflammation in skin, strengthen the skin barrier and reduce photodamage. They can also help to decrease scarring.
  • Humectants (anhydroxylitol 0.25% - 0.40%, betaine 0.25% - 0.45%, xylitylglucoside 0.35% - 0.65%, sodium lactate 0.55% - 0.85% and glycerin 1.10% - 1.30%). These ingredients help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improve the skin hydration.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 30 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Assessment of penetration of Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate into biological membranes by molecular dynamicssciencedirect.com
  2. 2
    Stability evaluation of tocopheryl acetate and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate in isolation and incorporated in cosmetic formulations using thermal analysisscielo.br
  3. 3
    A new lipophilic pro-vitamin C, tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid (VC-IP), prevents UV-induced skin pigmentation through its anti-oxidative propertiessciencedirect.com
  4. 4
    New lipophilic pro-vitamin C, tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid (VC-IP), suppresses senile lentigo through controlling of melanocytes-keratinocytes interactionmorressier.com
  5. 5
    Activity enhancement of ferulic acid with dimethyl isosorbride in cosmetic compositionspatents.google.com
  6. 6
    Safety Assessment of Glycerin Ethoxylates as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
Cipher Skincare C-Shield
Cipher SkincareC-Shield
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