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Kiehl's Brightening Bestsellers
Kiehl's

Kiehl's Brightening Bestsellers

Efficacy50/100IrritancyHigh
See all ingredients

Works for

Moisturizing
Hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine, Squalane + 24 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Powered by the Calendual petal, Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash and Herbal Extract Toner work to soothe skin and prepare it for treatment and hydration.”
Source: Ulta

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: glycerin, peg/ppg/polybutylene glycol-8/5/3 glycerin.

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: squalane, glycine soja oil.

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

Hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganineHeroEffect: HighA type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin~0.15–0.3%
SqualaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~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~0.45–0.65%
Oryza sativa bran oilKey active· EmollientEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant properties~0.45–0.65%
Cetyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together~0.45–0.7%
Olea europaea fruit oilKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin but is not effective for restoring its barrier function. Might be helpful to calm down inflammation~0.4–0.65%
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)~0.35–0.65%
Peg/ppg/polybutylene glycol-8/5/3 glycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps create a nice product texture and attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.35–0.6%
Prunus amygdalus dulcis seedKey activeEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.55%
Althaea officinalis root extractKey activeEffect: HighA plant extract that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to reduce inflammation~0.3–0.6%
Hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriolKey activeEffect: HighA sugar-derived compound that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might be able to stimulate synthesis of skin's own moisturizing factors, but solid research is lacking. It could be irritating~0.3–0.6%
Glycine soja oilKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.~0.25–0.5%
Rosa damascena flower oilEffect: LowUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritating~0.5–0.75%
Glyceryl stearate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together~0.45–0.7%
Palmitic acid· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that is naturally present in skin and helps soften it~0.45–0.65%
Bis-peg-18 methyl ether dimethyl silane· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowA type of silicone that helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~0.4–0.65%
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~0.35–0.65%
Hydrolyzed corn starch· HumectantEffect: LowHelps improve the product texture~0.3–0.55%
Stearic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~0.5–0.75%
CyclohexasiloxaneEffect: Low, below effective doseA silicone that serves as an emollient. Helps create a nice non-greasy feels~0.45–0.7%
Pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoateEffect: Low, below effective doseUsed to create a nice product consistency while softening the upper layer of the skin~0.45–0.7%
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%
Myristyl myristateUnder-dosedAn emollient. Is not recommended for acne-prone skin as it can be comedogenic~0.45–0.65%
Persea gratissima oilUnder-dosedAn emollient that helps soften the skin and could be helpful in repairing its barrier function~0.45–0.7%
Prunus armeniaca kernel oilUnder-dosedAn emollient that helps soften the skin~0.45–0.65%
AllantoinUnder-dosedHelps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated~0.3–0.55%
Evens skin tone
3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid ~0.3–0.6%
Under-dosed
What the product description says
“Kiehl's #1 serum, Clearly Corrective Dark Sport Solution paired with their #1 moisturizer, Ultra Facial Cream improve skin's overall complexion and texture.”
Source: Ulta

Effective ingredients missing or their concentration is too low

Salicylic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseUsed for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)~0.15–0.25%
3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~0.3–0.6%
Anti-aging
Side benefit · Adenosine, 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid + 1 more
Works well

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

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)~0.35–0.65%
3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products~0.3–0.6%
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%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
15 strong irritants: Citrus limon peel oil, Limonene + 13 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 44 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
Calendula officinalis extractA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skinHigh~25–31%est.
Coco-betaineHelps oil and water mix together and works as a cleansing agent. Can be allergenicHigh~4.9–5.9%est.
Citrus limon peel oilA highly irritating fragranceHigh~1.2–1.4%est.
LimoneneA common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heatHigh~1–1.2%est.
Propylene glycolHelps oil and water mix together and can enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. It can be irritatingHigh~0.55–0.85%est.
Geranium maculatum oilAn essential oil. Can be irritatingHigh~0.55–0.8%est.
Chamomilla recutita flower oilPlant oil that can have healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains volatile compouunds that are potential allergens and can be irritatingHigh~0.5–0.75%est.
Rosa damascena flower oilUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.5–0.75%est.
CitralA fragrance with a lemon scent. A likely irritantHigh~0.45–0.7%est.
Calendula officinalis flower extractA plant extract that has some anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties. Can be irritatingHigh~0.45–0.65%est.
Cymbopogon schoenanthus oil—High~0.45–0.65%est.
AlcoholCan be drying and contribute to skin irritation. Used in formulars to dissolve other ingredients, create a thinner product consistency or for its antibacterial propertiesHigh~0.35–0.6%est.
Arctium lappa root extractPlant extract. Has some anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties. Can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
Calendula officinalis flower—High~0.3–0.6%est.
Hedera helix extractA plant extract that has an anti-bacterial effectHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
Rosa damascena extractOil of a very fragrant pink rose used as fragrance in cosmetics. Extensive research has shown it has mixed benefits. In the pro column, inhaling this flower’s scent seems to have relaxing properties and the plant’s petals contain skin-soothing and antioxidant compounds that can benefit skin. On the flipside, the numerous chemicals that create this rose’s distinctive fragrance pose a risk of causing skin aggravation.High~0.3–0.6%est.
Althaea officinalis root extractA plant extract that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to reduce inflammationHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
Alcohol denat.Produces temporary toning effect. Can help dissolve other ingredients or preserve productsHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
Hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriolA sugar-derived compound that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might be able to stimulate synthesis of skin's own moisturizing factors, but solid research is lacking. It could be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
3-o-ethyl ascorbic acidA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in productsHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
Salicylic acidUsed for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)High~0.3–0.6%est.
Lavandula angustifolia oilAn essential oil. Potential allergen and can be irritating. It has some anti-bacterial propertiesHigh~0.35–0.65%est.
LinaloolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.35–0.6%est.
Citrus aurantium tachibana peel extract—High~0.35–0.65%est.
Paeonia suffruticosa root extract—High~0.4–0.6%est.
Sodium cocoyl glycinateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~5.6–6.8%est.
Acrylates copolymerUsed to stabilize product formulation, help create an even product layer over skin (for example, in sunscreen) and create a thicker product consistencyMedium~2.1–2.6%est.
Tetrasodium edtaHelps to stabilize the product formulationMedium~0.6–0.95%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.35–0.65%est.
ChlorphenesinA preservativeMedium~0.16–0.32%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.3–0.6%est.
Potassium hydroxideUsed to adjust the pH level of productsMedium~0.4–0.65%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~0.35–0.65%est.
Tocopheryl acetateA more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.Medium~0.4–0.65%est.
Peg-8 stearateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Myristyl myristateAn emollient. Is not recommended for acne-prone skin as it can be comedogenicMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Prunus armeniaca kernel oilAn emollient that helps soften the skinMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
Persea gratissima oilAn emollient that helps soften the skin and could be helpful in repairing its barrier functionMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Olea europaea fruit oilAn emollient that helps soften the skin but is not effective for restoring its barrier function. Might be helpful to calm down inflammationMedium~0.4–0.65%est.
Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymerMaintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.3–0.5%est.
Glycine soja oilA good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.Medium~0.25–0.5%est.
Myristic acidHelps oil and water mix together. Could be comedogenicMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
BhtA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.25%est.
Comedogenic
4 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
4 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
Myristyl myristateAn emollient. Is not recommended for acne-prone skin as it can be comedogenic3/5~0.45–0.65%est.
Myristic acidHelps oil and water mix together. Could be comedogenic3/5~0.2–0.4%est.
Peg-8 stearateHelps water and oil mix together2/5~0.45–0.65%est.
Glycine soja oilA good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.2/5~0.25–0.5%est.
Alternatives
Cheaper, or higher on efficacy
Clarifying Brightening Cleanser
Gleamin Clarifying Brightening Cleanser
Higher efficacy · 100/10070% match
$22.00
Nudeskin Blemish Clarifying Gel Moisturizer
NUDESTIX Nudeskin Blemish Clarifying Gel Moisturizer
Higher efficacy · 100/10069% match
View all alternatives

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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Calendula officinalis extract~25–31%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-inflammatory

A plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Calendula officinalis extract
Water~12–14%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Sodium cocoyl glycinate~5.6–6.8%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sodium cocoyl glycinate
Coco-betaine~4.9–5.9%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as a cleansing agent. Can be allergenic

More about Coco-betaine
Glycerin~2.9–3.6%
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
Acrylates copolymer~2.1–2.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used to stabilize product formulation, help create an even product layer over skin (for example, in sunscreen) and create a thicker product consistency

More about Acrylates copolymer
Sodium chloride~1.7–2.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to stabilize mixtures of oil and water, and create thicker, gel-like product textures

More about Sodium chloride
Phenoxyethanol~0.5–1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Citrus limon peel oil~1.2–1.4%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A highly irritating fragrance

More about Citrus limon peel oil
Limonene~1–1.2%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heat

More about Limonene
Sodium hydroxide~0.75–1.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Tetrasodium edta~0.6–0.95%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Helps to stabilize the product formulation

More about Tetrasodium edta
Propylene glycol~0.55–0.85%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and can enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. It can be irritating

More about Propylene glycol
Geranium maculatum oil~0.55–0.8%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

An essential oil. Can be irritating

More about Geranium maculatum oil
Chamomilla recutita flower oil~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Plant oil that can have healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains volatile compouunds that are potential allergens and can be irritating

More about Chamomilla recutita flower oil
Rosa damascena flower oil~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Moisturizing

Used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Rosa damascena flower oil
Citral~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance with a lemon scent. A likely irritant

More about Citral
Calendula officinalis flower extract~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that has some anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties. Can be irritating

More about Calendula officinalis flower extract
Cymbopogon schoenanthus oil~0.45–0.65%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
More about Cymbopogon schoenanthus oil
Artemisia absinthium extract~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Artemisia absinthium extract
Citric acid~0.35–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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

More about Citric acid
Calendula officinalis extract~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-inflammatory

A plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Calendula officinalis extract
Alcohol~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Antibacterial

Can be drying and contribute to skin irritation. Used in formulars to dissolve other ingredients, create a thinner product consistency or for its antibacterial properties

More about Alcohol
Water~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Propylene glycol~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and can enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. It can be irritating

More about Propylene glycol
Propanediol~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

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

More about Propanediol
Phenoxyethanol~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Chlorphenesin~0.16–0.32%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Chlorphenesin
Arctium lappa root extract~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

Plant extract. Has some anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties. Can be irritating

More about Arctium lappa root extract
Disodium edta~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Calendula officinalis flower extract~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that has some anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties. Can be irritating

More about Calendula officinalis flower extract
Calendula officinalis flower~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatory
More about Calendula officinalis flower
Hydrolyzed corn starch~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps improve the product texture

More about Hydrolyzed corn starch
Allantoin~0.3–0.55%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryReduces irritationReduces rednessAnti-blemishExfoliation

Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated

More about Allantoin
Hedera helix extract~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Antibacterial

A plant extract that has an anti-bacterial effect

More about Hedera helix extract
Rosa damascena extract~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Oil of a very fragrant pink rose used as fragrance in cosmetics. Extensive research has shown it has mixed benefits. In the pro column, inhaling this flower’s scent seems to have relaxing properties and the plant’s petals contain skin-soothing and antioxidant compounds that can benefit skin. On the flipside, the numerous chemicals that create this rose’s distinctive fragrance pose a risk of causing skin aggravation.

More about Rosa damascena extract
Glycerin~0.4–0.6%
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
Althaea officinalis root extract~0.3–0.6%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A plant extract that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to reduce inflammation

More about Althaea officinalis root extract
Sodium hydroxide~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Citric acid~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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

More about Citric acid
Water~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Propylene glycol~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and can enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. It can be irritating

More about Propylene glycol
Glycerin~0.4–0.6%
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
Alcohol denat.~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Produces temporary toning effect. Can help dissolve other ingredients or preserve products

More about Alcohol denat.
Peg/ppg/polybutylene glycol-8/5/3 glycerin~0.35–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps create a nice product texture and attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Peg/ppg/polybutylene glycol-8/5/3 glycerin
Hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriol~0.3–0.6%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Moisturizing

A sugar-derived compound that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might be able to stimulate synthesis of skin's own moisturizing factors, but solid research is lacking. It could be irritating

More about Hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriol
3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid~0.3–0.6%
Under-dosedIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-aging

A vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Can help neutralize free radicals and help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products

More about 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid
Ppg-6-decyltetradeceth-30~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Ppg-6-decyltetradeceth-30
Phenoxyethanol~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Salicylic acid~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-blemishExfoliationAnti-inflammatoryAntibacterialEvens skin tone

Used for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)

More about Salicylic acid
Xanthan gum~0.4–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Hydroxyethylcellulose~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to thicken product formulations and create gel-like textures

More about Hydroxyethylcellulose
Potassium hydroxide~0.4–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used to adjust the pH level of products

More about Potassium hydroxide
Citric acid~0.4–0.6%
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~0.35–0.65%
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
Tocopheryl acetate~0.4–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A more stable but less bio-available form of vitamin E compared to Tocopherol. Might help moisturize and protect the skin from free radicals, but mostly used in low concentrations to stabilize other ingredients.

More about Tocopheryl acetate
Lavandula angustifolia oil~0.35–0.65%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

An essential oil. Potential allergen and can be irritating. It has some anti-bacterial properties

More about Lavandula angustifolia oil
Disodium edta~0.4–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Adenosine~0.35–0.65%
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
Linalool~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Linalool
Butylene glycol~0.35–0.65%
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
Tocopherol~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-agingAnti-inflammatoryMoisturizing

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
Citrus aurantium tachibana peel extract~0.35–0.65%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
More about Citrus aurantium tachibana peel extract
Paeonia suffruticosa root extract~0.4–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation
More about Paeonia suffruticosa root extract
Cream~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Cream
Water~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Glycerin~0.45–0.65%
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
Cyclohexasiloxane~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A silicone that serves as an emollient. Helps create a nice non-greasy feels

More about Cyclohexasiloxane
Squalane~0.45–0.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.

More about Squalane
Bis-peg-18 methyl ether dimethyl silane~0.4–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

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

More about Bis-peg-18 methyl ether dimethyl silane
Sucrose stearate~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Sucrose stearate
Stearyl alcohol~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Stearyl alcohol
Peg-8 stearate~0.45–0.65%
Comedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Peg-8 stearate
Myristyl myristate~0.45–0.65%
Under-dosedComedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient. Is not recommended for acne-prone skin as it can be comedogenic

More about Myristyl myristate
Pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoate~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product consistency while softening the upper layer of the skin

More about Pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoate
Prunus armeniaca kernel oil~0.45–0.65%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Prunus armeniaca kernel oil
Phenoxyethanol~0.4–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Persea gratissima oil~0.45–0.7%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin and could be helpful in repairing its barrier function

More about Persea gratissima oil
Glyceryl stearate~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together

More about Glyceryl stearate
Cetyl alcohol~0.45–0.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together

More about Cetyl alcohol
Oryza sativa bran oil~0.45–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant properties

More about Oryza sativa bran oil
Olea europaea fruit oil~0.4–0.65%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin but is not effective for restoring its barrier function. Might be helpful to calm down inflammation

More about Olea europaea fruit oil
Chlorphenesin~0.16–0.32%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Chlorphenesin
Stearic acid~0.5–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Palmitic acid~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

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

More about Palmitic acid
Disodium edta~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Maintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix together

More about Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer
Carbomer~0.3–0.6%
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
Prunus amygdalus dulcis seed~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Prunus amygdalus dulcis seed
Xanthan gum~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Sodium hydroxide~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Tocopherol~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidationMoisturizingAnti-agingAnti-inflammatory

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 soja oil~0.25–0.5%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Moisturizing

A good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.

More about Glycine soja oil
Pseudoalteromonas ferment extract~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Pseudoalteromonas ferment extract
Myristic acid~0.2–0.4%
Comedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together. Could be comedogenic

More about Myristic acid
Hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine~0.15–0.3%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingReduces irritationAnti-inflammatory

A type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin

More about Hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine
Bht~0.15–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Bht
Salicylic acid~0.15–0.25%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryExfoliationAnti-blemishAntibacterialEvens skin tone

Used for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)

More about Salicylic acid
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

Calendula officinalis extract, Water, Sodium cocoyl glycinate, Coco-betaine, Glycerin, Acrylates copolymer, Sodium chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus limon peel oil, Limonene, Sodium hydroxide, Tetrasodium edta, Propylene glycol, Geranium maculatum oil, Chamomilla recutita flower oil, Rosa damascena flower oil, Citral, Calendula officinalis flower extract, Cymbopogon schoenanthus oil, Artemisia absinthium extract, Citric acid, Calendula officinalis extract, Alcohol, Water, Propylene glycol, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Arctium lappa root extract, Disodium edta, Calendula officinalis flower extract, Calendula officinalis flower, Hydrolyzed corn starch, Allantoin, Hedera helix extract, Rosa damascena extract, Glycerin, Althaea officinalis root extract, Sodium hydroxide, Citric acid, Water, Propylene glycol, Glycerin, Alcohol denat., Peg/ppg/polybutylene glycol-8/5/3 glycerin, Hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriol, 3-o-ethyl ascorbic acid, Ppg-6-decyltetradeceth-30, Phenoxyethanol, Salicylic acid, Xanthan gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Potassium hydroxide, Citric acid, Sodium citrate, Tocopheryl acetate, Lavandula angustifolia oil, Disodium edta, Adenosine, Linalool, Butylene glycol, Tocopherol, Citrus aurantium tachibana peel extract, Paeonia suffruticosa root extract, Cream, Water, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Squalane, Bis-peg-18 methyl ether dimethyl silane, Sucrose stearate, Stearyl alcohol, Peg-8 stearate, Myristyl myristate, Pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoate, Prunus armeniaca kernel oil, Phenoxyethanol, Persea gratissima oil, Glyceryl stearate, Cetyl alcohol, Oryza sativa bran oil, Olea europaea fruit oil, Chlorphenesin, Stearic acid, Palmitic acid, Disodium edta, Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, Carbomer, Prunus amygdalus dulcis seed, Xanthan gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium hydroxide, Tocopherol, Glycine soja oil, Pseudoalteromonas ferment extract, Myristic acid, Hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine, Bht, Salicylic acid, Citric acid

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Price—$22.00$34.00—
Shared key ingredients—3 of 166 of 164 of 16
Key difference—Lactobionic AcidRetinolSh-Polypeptide-9
Irritancy High Medium Medium Medium
Drying alcohol Contains drying alcohol ———
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Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 32 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Protective effect of Calendula officinalis extract against UVB-induced oxidative stress in skin: evaluation of reduced glutathione levels and matrix metalloproteinase secretionpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Acrylates Copolymer and 33 Related Cosmetic Ingredientsjournals.sagepub.com
  4. 4
    Amended Safety Assessment of Acrylates Copolymers as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
  5. 5
    Surfactants and experimental irritant contact dermatitisncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    Propylene Glycolpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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