What's In My Jar
Macrene Actives High Performance Face Cream
Macrene Actives

Macrene Actives High Performance Face Cream

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh
See all ingredients

Works for

Anti-aging
Acetyl glucosamine, Resveratrol + 6 more
Works well
What the product description says
“reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the appearance of blemishes and spots, smooth skin texture, clear the complexion, maintain the skin barrier and balance, soothe & hydrate the skin.”
Source: Skinstore

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

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: arabidopsis thaliana extract, aspartic acid, resveratrol, 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.

Acetyl glucosamineKey activeEffect: HighAn effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin~1.3–1.5%
ResveratrolKey activeEffect: MediumHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone~0.55–0.8%
Arabidopsis thaliana extractKey activeEffect: MediumPlant extract that might be helpful in repairing sun damage but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lacking~0.45–0.65%
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~0.4–0.6%
Aspartic acidKey activeEffect: MediumAn amino-acid that helps increase skin hydration and might help to slightly improve skin firmness, potentially reducing lines and wrinkles~0.35–0.65%
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~0.35–0.65%
Ilex paraguariensis leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Can contain fragrand compounds like linalool that can be irritating~0.3–0.6%
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateUnder-dosedBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~1.7–2.1%
Moisturizing
Acetyl glucosamine, Squalane + 28 more
Works well
What the product description says
“reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the appearance of blemishes and spots, smooth skin texture, clear the complexion, maintain the skin barrier and balance, soothe & hydrate the skin.”
Source: Skinstore

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, helianthus annuus seed oil.

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

Acetyl glucosamineHero· HumectantEffect: HighAn effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin~1.3–1.5%
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.~5–6.1%
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~4.3–5.2%
Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~3.3–4%
Cetyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together~2.1–2.5%
Helianthus annuus seed oilKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function~1.6–2%
Sodium acetylated hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighA type of hyaluronic acid that works as an excellent moisturizer by attracting water into the upper layer of the skin. Is typically feels less sticky on the skin compared to the usual hyaluronic acid~0.6–0.9%
Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.6–0.95%
Hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronateKey activeEffect: HighAttracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.55–0.8%
Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymerKey active· HumectantEffect: HighAttracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.55–0.8%
Scenedesmus rubescens extractKey activeEffect: HighA micro-algae extract that might help attract water to the upper layer of the skin, support its barrier function, amd might help neutralize free radicals, but evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking~0.5–0.75%
CholesterolKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that is naturally found in skin~0.45–0.7%
Plankton extractKey activeEffect: MediumCan help attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.45–0.7%
Palmaria palmata extractKey activeEffect: HighRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.4–0.6%
PcaKey active· HumectantEffect: HighNaturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer~0.4–0.6%
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~0.4–0.6%
Sodium pcaKey active· HumectantEffect: HighNaturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer~0.4–0.6%
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~0.4–0.6%
Tremella fuciformis sporocarp extractKey active· HumectantEffect: HighMushroom extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.4–0.6%
ProlineKey activeEffect: Medium~0.4–0.6%
IsoleucineKey activeEffect: HighAn amino acid that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and support skin's barrier function~0.35–0.65%
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~0.35–0.65%
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~0.35–0.65%
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~0.35–0.65%
HistidineKey active· HumectantEffect: High~0.35–0.65%
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~0.35–0.65%
GlycineKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help restore the skin barrier function~0.35–0.65%
Stearic acid· EmollientEffect: LowHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~1.2–1.4%
Glyceryl caprylate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that can also help water and oil mix together, as well as prevent bacteria growth in products~0.4–0.65%
LecithinEffect: Low, below effective doseUsed mostly for creating emulsions - helping oil and water mix together. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.45–0.65%
Evens skin tone
Acetyl glucosamine, Resveratrol + 2 more
Works well
What the product description says
“reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the appearance of blemishes and spots, smooth skin texture, clear the complexion, maintain the skin barrier and balance, soothe & hydrate the skin.”
Source: Skinstore

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

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, resveratrol.

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.

Acetyl glucosamineKey activeEffect: HighAn effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin~1.3–1.5%
ResveratrolEffect: LowHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone~0.55–0.8%
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~0.35–0.65%
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateUnder-dosedBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~1.7–2.1%
Anti-oxidation
Not advertised by the brand · Resveratrol, Ilex paraguariensis leaf extract + 9 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (resveratrol) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

The following ingredients - ilex paraguariensis leaf extract also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

ResveratrolKey activeEffect: HighHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone~0.55–0.8%
Ilex paraguariensis leaf extractKey activeEffect: MediumA plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Can contain fragrand compounds like linalool that can be irritating~0.3–0.6%
Scenedesmus rubescens extractEffect: LowA micro-algae extract that might help attract water to the upper layer of the skin, support its barrier function, amd might help neutralize free radicals, but evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking~0.5–0.75%
Tremella fuciformis sporocarp extractEffect: LowMushroom extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.4–0.6%
Palmaria palmata extractEffect: LowRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.4–0.6%
Coffea arabica seed extractEffect: LowMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin~0.35–0.65%
CaffeineEffect: LowMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyes~0.35–0.65%
BisabololEffect: Low, below effective doseAn active component of chamomile plant that historically has been used to calm down irritated skin. A recent study shows that bisabolol indeed can have some anti-inflammatory effect on skin, even though conclusive data is lacking. Bisabolol has a sweet floral scent and can be added to products for its aromatic properties~0.3–0.6%
Tocopheryl acetateEffect: Low, below effective doseA 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.~0.15–0.25%
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateUnder-dosedBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.~1.7–2.1%
ErgothioneineUnder-dosedCan help neutralize free radicals in skin. Preliminary studies show that it can be more effective than coenzyme Q10 but studies on effective concentration for topical applications are lacking~0.4–0.6%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
4 strong irritants: Rosa damascena extract, Ilex paraguariensis leaf extract + 2 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 18 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
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~0.45–0.65%est.
Ilex paraguariensis leaf extractA plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Can contain fragrand compounds like linalool that can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
Chrysanthemum parthenium extractCould have anti-inflammatory effect on skin, but can be irritating as well. Can be added to products for its smellHigh~0.3–0.6%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~0.3–0.55%est.
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbateBeing a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.Medium~1.7–2.1%est.
Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymerAttracts water into the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.55–0.8%est.
ResveratrolHelps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin toneMedium~0.55–0.8%est.
Scenedesmus rubescens extractA micro-algae extract that might help attract water to the upper layer of the skin, support its barrier function, amd might help neutralize free radicals, but evidence of effectiveness in skin is lackingMedium~0.5–0.75%est.
Plankton extractCan help attract water to the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Arabidopsis thaliana extractPlant extract that might be helpful in repairing sun damage but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lackingMedium~0.45–0.65%est.
CaffeineMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyesMedium~0.35–0.65%est.
Sodium lactateHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Is often used to adjust the pH level of the productMedium~0.4–0.6%est.
PhosphatidylcholineUsed to enhance the delivery of other ingredientsMedium~0.4–0.65%est.
Caprylhydroxamic acidA preservativeMedium~0.35–0.6%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Sodium stearoyl glutamateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.35–0.6%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.1–0.2%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~0.15–0.25%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
Plankton extractCan help attract water to the upper layer of the skin3/5~0.45–0.7%est.
Theobroma cacao extract—3/5~0.35–0.65%est.
Palmaria palmata extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin3/5~0.4–0.6%est.

User reviews

Would you recommend?
No community reviews yet.

Be the first — your take helps the next person decide.

Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Squalane~5–6.1%
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
Glycerin~4.3–5.2%
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
Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivate~3.3–4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivate
Hydrogenated olive oil~2.4–3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hydrogenated olive oil
Cetyl alcohol~2.1–2.5%
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
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate~1.7–2.1%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidation

Being a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.

More about Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate
Helianthus annuus seed oil~1.6–2%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A great emollient due to its high linoleic acid content. One of the most effective plant oils in helping skin hydration and repairing skin barrier function

More about Helianthus annuus seed oil
Acetyl glucosamine~1.3–1.5%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingEvens skin toneAnti-agingExfoliation

An effective moisturizing ingredient that also has been shown to be effective in evening out the skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. It can help somewhat reduce wrinkles in skin

More about Acetyl glucosamine
Stearic acid~1.2–1.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Sorbitan stearate~0.8–1.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Sorbitan stearate
Copper glycinate~0.65–1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Copper glycinate
Sodium hyaluronate~0.6–0.95%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate
Sodium acetylated hyaluronate~0.6–0.9%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A type of hyaluronic acid that works as an excellent moisturizer by attracting water into the upper layer of the skin. Is typically feels less sticky on the skin compared to the usual hyaluronic acid

More about Sodium acetylated hyaluronate
Hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate~0.55–0.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate
Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer~0.55–0.8%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

More about Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer
Resveratrol~0.55–0.8%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-agingEvens skin tone

Helps neutralize free radicals in skin and might help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as even out the skin tone

More about Resveratrol
Scenedesmus rubescens extract~0.5–0.75%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A micro-algae extract that might help attract water to the upper layer of the skin, support its barrier function, amd might help neutralize free radicals, but evidence of effectiveness in skin is lacking

More about Scenedesmus rubescens extract
Plankton extract~0.45–0.7%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
Moisturizing

Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Plankton extract
Arabidopsis thaliana extract~0.45–0.65%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-aging

Plant extract that might be helpful in repairing sun damage but evidence of effectiveness in skin are lacking

More about Arabidopsis thaliana extract
Rosa damascena extract~0.45–0.65%
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
Leontopodium alpinum flower/leaf extract~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Leontopodium alpinum flower/leaf extract
Ergothioneine~0.4–0.6%
Under-dosed
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidation

Can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Preliminary studies show that it can be more effective than coenzyme Q10 but studies on effective concentration for topical applications are lacking

More about Ergothioneine
Coffea arabica seed extract~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-oxidation

Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin

More about Coffea arabica seed extract
Ilex paraguariensis leaf extract~0.3–0.6%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationAnti-aging

A plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Can contain fragrand compounds like linalool that can be irritating

More about Ilex paraguariensis leaf extract
Chrysanthemum parthenium extract~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Could have anti-inflammatory effect on skin, but can be irritating as well. Can be added to products for its smell

More about Chrysanthemum parthenium extract
Theobroma cacao extract~0.35–0.65%
Comedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
More about Theobroma cacao extract
Rosa damascena extract~0.35–0.65%
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
Palmaria palmata extract~0.4–0.6%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Red algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Palmaria palmata extract
Tremella fuciformis sporocarp extract~0.4–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Mushroom extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Tremella fuciformis sporocarp extract
Caffeine~0.35–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
De-puffingAnti-oxidation

Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals. Can have a dehydration effect that might somewhat decrease the look of puffy eyes

More about Caffeine
Bisabolol~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryReduces irritationAnti-oxidation

An active component of chamomile plant that historically has been used to calm down irritated skin. A recent study shows that bisabolol indeed can have some anti-inflammatory effect on skin, even though conclusive data is lacking. Bisabolol has a sweet floral scent and can be added to products for its aromatic properties

More about Bisabolol
Sodium lactate~0.4–0.6%
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
Arginine~0.35–0.65%
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
Aspartic acid~0.35–0.65%
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
Glycine~0.35–0.65%
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
Alanine~0.35–0.65%
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
Serine~0.35–0.65%
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
Valine~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Valine
Proline~0.4–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing
More about Proline
Threonine~0.4–0.6%
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
Isoleucine~0.35–0.65%
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~0.35–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing
More about Histidine
Phenylalanine~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Phenylalanine
Pca~0.4–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Naturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer

More about Pca
Sodium pca~0.4–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Naturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer

More about Sodium pca
Cholesterol~0.45–0.7%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that is naturally found in skin

More about Cholesterol
Phosphatidylcholine~0.4–0.65%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Used to enhance the delivery of other ingredients

More about Phosphatidylcholine
Lecithin~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Used mostly for creating emulsions - helping oil and water mix together. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Lecithin
Methylglucoside phosphate~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Methylglucoside phosphate
Caprylhydroxamic acid~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Caprylhydroxamic acid
Glyceryl caprylate~0.4–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that can also help water and oil mix together, as well as prevent bacteria growth in products

More about Glyceryl caprylate
Alcohol~0.3–0.55%
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
Xanthan gum~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Citric acid~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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

More about Citric acid
Sodium stearoyl glutamate~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sodium stearoyl glutamate
Sodium methyl stearoyl taurate~0.55–0.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Sodium methyl stearoyl taurate
Phenoxyethanol~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearoxy ether~0.2–0.35%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps create a thicker product formulation

More about Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearoxy ether
Sodium phytate~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to stabilize product formulations

More about Sodium phytate
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.1–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Tocopheryl acetate~0.15–0.25%
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
Ingredient list view

Water, Squalane, Glycerin, Hydrogenated ethylhexyl olivate, Hydrogenated olive oil, Cetyl alcohol, Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, Helianthus annuus seed oil, Acetyl glucosamine, Stearic acid, Sorbitan stearate, Copper glycinate, Sodium hyaluronate, Sodium acetylated hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, Resveratrol, Scenedesmus rubescens extract, Plankton extract, Arabidopsis thaliana extract, Rosa damascena extract, Leontopodium alpinum flower/leaf extract, Ergothioneine, Coffea arabica seed extract, Ilex paraguariensis leaf extract, Chrysanthemum parthenium extract, Theobroma cacao extract, Rosa damascena extract, Palmaria palmata extract, Tremella fuciformis sporocarp extract, Caffeine, Bisabolol, Sodium lactate, Arginine, Aspartic acid, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Proline, Threonine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Pca, Sodium pca, Cholesterol, Phosphatidylcholine, Lecithin, Methylglucoside phosphate, Caprylhydroxamic acid, Glyceryl caprylate, Alcohol, Xanthan gum, Citric acid, Sodium stearoyl glutamate, Sodium methyl stearoyl taurate, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose stearoxy ether, Sodium phytate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopheryl acetate

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

Amazon USPrice as of 11/7 12:05 GMT
$225.00
Buy

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

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
Macrene ActivesHigh Performance Face CreamYOUR PRODUCTIOPEHyaluronic CreamSummer FridaysDream Oasis Hydration SerumNIODMulti-Molecular Hyaluronic Complex
Match—49%48%47%
Price$225.00$35.19−$189.81$44.00−$181.00$22.75−$202.25
Shared key ingredients—12 of 3015 of 3016 of 30
Key difference—NiacinamideNiacinamideMyristoyl Nonapeptide-3
Irritancy High Medium Medium Medium
Drying alcohol Contains drying alcohol Contains drying alcohol ——
View product Shop Shop Shop
  • matches yours
  • differs
  • cheaper

More alternatives: Exuviance Age Reverse Hydrafirm Hyaluronic Acid Antiaging MoisturizerRNW Moist Hyal Treatment Emulsion

Cheaper alternatives? See how this stacks up against similar formulas.
We compare ingredient profiles across our catalog — pick the closest match for your budget.
Open dupe finder

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 41 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Double-blind, half-face study comparing topical vitamin C and vehicle for rejuvenation of photodamagencbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    Application of tetra-isopalmitoyl ascorbic acid in cosmetic formulations: Stability studies and in vivo efficacysciencedirect.com
  4. 4
    Effect of Olive and Sunflower Seed Oil on the Adult Skin Barrier: Implications for Neonatal Skin Careonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  5. 5
    Topically Applied Sunflower Seed Oil Prevents Invasive Bacterial Infections in Preterm Infants in Egyptjournals.lww.com
  6. 6
    Effect of topically applied lipids on surfactant-irritated skinonlinelibrary.wiley.com
Macrene Actives High Performance Face Cream
Macrene ActivesHigh Performance Face Cream
Buy on Amazon$225.00 · as of 11/7 12:05 GMT

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

Buy on Amazon$225.00 · as of 11/7 12:05 GMT

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.