What's In My Jar
NEOSTRATA Enlighten Pigment Controller Cream with Retinol & Vitamin C
NEOSTRATA

NEOSTRATA Enlighten Pigment Controller Cream with Retinol & Vitamin C

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh
See all ingredients

Works for

Anti-aging
Retinol, Acetyl glucosamine + 3 more
Works well
What the product description says
“NeoGlucosamine: An amino sugar that smoothes the look of fine lines.”
Source: Lookfantastic

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

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.

RetinolHeroEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~0.1–0.3%
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~5.8–8.7%
Butyrospermum parkii butterEffect: LowA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~1.4–2%
TetrahydrodiferuloylmethaneEffect: LowAn anti-oxidant derived from curcumin (naturally present in tumeric). Is a part of the tetrahydrocurcuminoids complex (THC). The complex might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin and possibly help even out the skin tone. Can be irritating~0.1–0.35%
Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and 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~0.1–0.4%
Exfoliation
Acetyl glucosamine, Retinol
Works well
What the product description says
“A highly active cream with NeoGlucosamine, retinol, and vitamin C that resurfaces skin and reduces discolouration.”
Source: Lookfantastic

This product can help exfoliate the skin. In other words, it helps break down the bonds between dead cells on the surface of the skin and speed up the skin turnover. Skin often appears softer and brighter after exfoliation, but overdoing it can result in disrupted skin barrier. The following ingredient is doing the exfoliating job in this product: retinol.

Acetyl glucosamineKey activeEffect: MediumAn 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~5.8–8.7%
RetinolKey activeEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~0.1–0.3%
Evens skin tone
Retinol, Acetyl glucosamine + 2 more
Works well
What the product description says
“This specially formulated product helps to immediately visibly brighten skin and targets the look of dark spots.”
Source: Lookfantastic

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

In addition, this product contains acetyl glucosamine. This ingredient (ingredients) might help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the effect, if any, is likely to be small.

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: tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane.

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.

RetinolHeroEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~0.1–0.3%
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~5.8–8.7%
TetrahydrodiferuloylmethaneEffect: LowAn anti-oxidant derived from curcumin (naturally present in tumeric). Is a part of the tetrahydrocurcuminoids complex (THC). The complex might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin and possibly help even out the skin tone. Can be irritating~0.1–0.35%
Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and 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~0.1–0.4%
Anti-oxidation
Not advertised by the brand · Retinol, Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane + 6 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (retinol) 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 - tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

RetinolKey activeEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~0.1–0.3%
TetrahydrodiferuloylmethaneKey activeEffect: MediumAn anti-oxidant derived from curcumin (naturally present in tumeric). Is a part of the tetrahydrocurcuminoids complex (THC). The complex might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin and possibly help even out the skin tone. Can be irritating~0.1–0.35%
Butyrospermum parkii butterEffect: LowA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~1.4–2%
Achillea millefolium extractEffect: LowPlant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Can be used as a fragrance. Can be irritating~0.05–0.15%
Alchemilla vulgaris extractEffect: LowA plant extract that has astringent properties. In other words, it might be able to interact with keratin in the uppermost layer of the skin to reduce swelling and create a temporal tightening effect. It can be irritating~0.01–0.05%
Pyrus malus fruit extractEffect: Low, below effective doseCan have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar content~0.05–0.1%
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.~0.05–0.25%
Ascorbyl glucosideUnder-dosedA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and 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~0.1–0.4%
Anti-blemish
Not advertised by the brand · Retinol
Works well

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

RetinolHeroEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~0.1–0.3%
Moisturizing
Side benefit the brand mentions · Acetyl glucosamine, Dimethicone + 14 more
Works well
What the product description says
“Addresses hyperpigmentation on multiple levels.”
Source: Lookfantastic CA

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: arginine, 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: arginine, butyrospermum parkii butter.

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~5.8–8.7%
DimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish~2.5–3.8%
Butyrospermum parkii butterKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals~1.4–2%
Octyldodecyl neopentanoateKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Often used to stabilize other ingredients, for example, sunscreen~1–1.6%
Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~0.3–0.75%
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~0.1–0.3%
Cetyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together~0.1–0.3%
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~0.05–0.2%
Peg-8· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product consistency~3.2–4.9%
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~1.6–2.5%
Glyceryl stearate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together~0.85–1.3%
Hydrogenated polyisobutene· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: LowUsed to improve the product consistency and soften the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.7%
Prunus armeniaca fruit extractEffect: LowA fruit extract that might have some antioxidant properties and might help attract water to the skin, but evidence of effectiveness is lacking~0.05–0.1%
Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.05–0.2%
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~0.05–0.25%
Pyrus malus fruit extractUnder-dosedCan have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar content~0.05–0.1%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
17 strong irritants: Retinol, Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract + 15 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 37 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
RetinolTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritatingHigh~0.1–0.3%est.
TetrahydrodiferuloylmethaneAn anti-oxidant derived from curcumin (naturally present in tumeric). Is a part of the tetrahydrocurcuminoids complex (THC). The complex might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin and possibly help even out the skin tone. Can be irritatingHigh~0.1–0.35%est.
Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extractA plant extract that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritating and lead to photosensitivityHigh~0.01–0.1%est.
Achillea millefolium extractPlant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Can be used as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.15%est.
Alchemilla vulgaris extractA plant extract that has astringent properties. In other words, it might be able to interact with keratin in the uppermost layer of the skin to reduce swelling and create a temporal tightening effect. It can be irritatingHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Malva sylvestris extract—High~0.01–0.05%est.
Melissa officinalis leaf extractA plant extract that is added for its fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Mentha piperita leaf extractUsed as a fragrance and can be irritatingHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Primula veris extract—High~0.01–0.1%est.
Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extractUsed as a fragranceHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Elettaria cardamomum seed extractUsed as a fragranceHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Lavandula angustifolia flower/leaf/stem extractUsed as a fragranceHigh~0.01–0.1%est.
Eugenia caryophyllus flower extractA plant extract that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.15%est.
Gardenia taitensis flower extractUsed as a fragranceHigh~0.05–0.1%est.
Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extractUsed as a fragranceHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Plumeria rubra flower extractUsed to add a nice smell to the product. Can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.1%est.
Polianthes tuberosa extract—High~0.05–0.15%est.
Vanilla planifolia fruit extractA plant extract used as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.1%est.
LimoneneA common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heatHigh~0.05–0.15%est.
HydroxycitronellalA fragrance. A likely allergen and can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.15%est.
LinaloolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.05–0.1%est.
Ci 19140A yellow dyeHigh~0.01–0.05%est.
Peg-8Used to create a nice product consistencyMedium~3.2–4.9%est.
Ascorbyl glucosideA vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and 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 productsMedium~0.1–0.4%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.05–0.25%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~0.05–0.25%est.
Prunus armeniaca fruit extractA fruit extract that might have some antioxidant properties and might help attract water to the skin, but evidence of effectiveness is lackingMedium~0.05–0.1%est.
Pyrus malus fruit extractCan have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar contentMedium~0.05–0.1%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~0.05–0.25%est.
Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
Peg-75 stearateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.05–0.15%est.
Ceteth-20Helps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.1–0.4%est.
Steareth-20Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.1–0.4%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
BhtA preservativeMedium~0.05–0.2%est.
ChlorphenesinA preservativeMedium~0.05–0.15%est.
Ci 17200A red colorantMedium~0.01–0.05%est.
Comedogenic
2 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale
2 flagged
These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.
IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount
Butyrospermum parkii butterA great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals3/5~1.4–2%est.
Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~0.3–0.75%est.
Alternatives
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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~40–60%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Acetyl glucosamine~5.8–8.7%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Evens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-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
Peg-8~3.2–4.9%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product consistency

More about Peg-8
Dimethicone~2.5–3.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone
Butylene glycol~1.6–2.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

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

More about Butylene glycol
Butyrospermum parkii butter~1.4–2%
Key activeComedogenic 3/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
3/5
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

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

More about Butyrospermum parkii butter
Octyldodecyl neopentanoate~1–1.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin. Often used to stabilize other ingredients, for example, sunscreen

More about Octyldodecyl neopentanoate
Glyceryl stearate~0.85–1.3%
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
Peg-100 stearate~0.55–1.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix togehter and creates a nice product texture

More about Peg-100 stearate
Propylene glycol hydroxystearate~0.4–0.95%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing
More about Propylene glycol hydroxystearate
Hydrogenated polyisobutene~0.3–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to improve the product consistency and soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrogenated polyisobutene
Cetearyl alcohol~0.3–0.75%
Key activeComedogenic 2/5
Irritation risk
Low
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

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

More about Cetearyl alcohol
Nylon-12~0.2–0.75%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to create a nice product consistency

More about Nylon-12
Ascorbyl glucoside~0.1–0.4%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneAnti-agingAnti-oxidation

A vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and 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 Ascorbyl glucoside
Arginine~0.1–0.3%
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
Retinol~0.1–0.3%
Hero · Anti-aging, Evens skin tone, Anti-blemishIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-blemishMattifyingExfoliationAnti-aging

Two steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating

More about Retinol
Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane~0.1–0.35%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-aging

An anti-oxidant derived from curcumin (naturally present in tumeric). Is a part of the tetrahydrocurcuminoids complex (THC). The complex might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin and possibly help even out the skin tone. Can be irritating

More about Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane
Citric acid~0.05–0.25%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

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

More about Citric acid
Tocopheryl acetate~0.05–0.25%
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
Glycerin~0.05–0.2%
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
Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract~0.01–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A plant extract that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritating and lead to photosensitivity

More about Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract
Achillea millefolium extract~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

Plant extract that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. Can be used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Achillea millefolium extract
Alchemilla vulgaris extract~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that has astringent properties. In other words, it might be able to interact with keratin in the uppermost layer of the skin to reduce swelling and create a temporal tightening effect. It can be irritating

More about Alchemilla vulgaris extract
Malva sylvestris extract~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
More about Malva sylvestris extract
Melissa officinalis leaf extract~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A plant extract that is added for its fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Melissa officinalis leaf extract
Mentha piperita leaf extract~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance and can be irritating

More about Mentha piperita leaf extract
Primula veris extract~0.01–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
More about Primula veris extract
Veronica officinalis extract~0.01–0.05%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Veronica officinalis extract
Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extract~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance

More about Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extract
Elettaria cardamomum seed extract~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance

More about Elettaria cardamomum seed extract
Lavandula angustifolia flower/leaf/stem extract~0.01–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance

More about Lavandula angustifolia flower/leaf/stem extract
Eugenia caryophyllus flower extract~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A plant extract that is used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Eugenia caryophyllus flower extract
Gardenia taitensis flower extract~0.05–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance

More about Gardenia taitensis flower extract
Hedychium spicatum extract~0.05–0.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hedychium spicatum extract
Hibiscus abelmoschus extract~0.05–0.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Hibiscus abelmoschus extract
Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extract~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance

More about Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extract
Plumeria rubra flower extract~0.05–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used to add a nice smell to the product. Can be irritating

More about Plumeria rubra flower extract
Polianthes tuberosa extract~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
More about Polianthes tuberosa extract
Prunus armeniaca fruit extract~0.05–0.1%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryMoisturizing

A fruit extract that might have some antioxidant properties and might help attract water to the skin, but evidence of effectiveness is lacking

More about Prunus armeniaca fruit extract
Pyrus malus fruit extract~0.05–0.1%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Can have some moisturizing properties due to its sugar content

More about Pyrus malus fruit extract
Vanilla planifolia fruit extract~0.05–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A plant extract used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Vanilla planifolia fruit extract
Caprylic/capric triglyceride~0.05–0.25%
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
Caprylyl glycol~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol
Peg-75 stearate~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Peg-75 stearate
Ceteth-20~0.1–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Ceteth-20
Steareth-20~0.1–0.4%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Steareth-20
Polysorbate 20~0.05–0.25%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 20
Xanthan gum~0.05–0.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Cetyl alcohol~0.1–0.3%
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
Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer~0.05–0.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Increases thickness of a product. Texture enhancer for oil-in-water emulsions

More about Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer
Disodium edta~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Bht~0.05–0.2%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Bht
Limonene~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

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

More about Limonene
Hydroxycitronellal~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. A likely allergen and can be irritating

More about Hydroxycitronellal
Linalool~0.05–0.1%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Linalool
Chlorphenesin~0.05–0.15%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Chlorphenesin
Phenoxyethanol~0.05–0.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Ci 19140~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A yellow dye

More about Ci 19140
Ci 17200~0.01–0.05%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A red colorant

More about Ci 17200
Ingredient list view

Water, Acetyl glucosamine, Peg-8, Dimethicone, Butylene glycol, Butyrospermum parkii butter, Octyldodecyl neopentanoate, Glyceryl stearate, Peg-100 stearate, Propylene glycol hydroxystearate, Hydrogenated polyisobutene, Cetearyl alcohol, Nylon-12, Ascorbyl glucoside, Arginine, Retinol, Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Citric acid, Tocopheryl acetate, Glycerin, Citrus aurantium dulcis fruit extract, Achillea millefolium extract, Alchemilla vulgaris extract, Malva sylvestris extract, Melissa officinalis leaf extract, Mentha piperita leaf extract, Primula veris extract, Veronica officinalis extract, Citrus aurantium dulcis peel extract, Elettaria cardamomum seed extract, Lavandula angustifolia flower/leaf/stem extract, Eugenia caryophyllus flower extract, Gardenia taitensis flower extract, Hedychium spicatum extract, Hibiscus abelmoschus extract, Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extract, Plumeria rubra flower extract, Polianthes tuberosa extract, Prunus armeniaca fruit extract, Pyrus malus fruit extract, Vanilla planifolia fruit extract, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Caprylyl glycol, Peg-75 stearate, Ceteth-20, Steareth-20, Polysorbate 20, Xanthan gum, Cetyl alcohol, Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer, Disodium edta, Bht, Limonene, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Ci 19140, Ci 17200

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🇬🇧 Lookfantastic (UK)50 ml
≈ $101.73 Out of stock
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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
NEOSTRATAEnlighten Pigment Controller Cream with Retinol & Vitamin CYOUR PRODUCTskintificRetinol Skin Renewal Moisturizer Acne & Anti-Aging Night CreamMD Complete by Dr. Brian ZelicksonWrinkle Radiance Remedy PLUSSulwhasooConcentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream EX Mini - 5 Types
Match—89%86%86%
Price—$14.90$49.99—
Shared key ingredients—4 of 86 of 82 of 8
Key difference—NiacinamideNiacinamideAcetyl Octapeptide-3
Irritancy High Medium High High
Drying alcohol————
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Product summary

"NEOSTRATA - Enlighten Pigment Controller Cream with Retinol & Vitamin C" is a well-rounded moisturizing product. To work well, any moisturizer needs to include a combination of water-binding and emollient ingredients. NEOSTRATA - Enlighten Pigment Controller Cream with Retinol & Vitamin C ticks this box. Humectants in this product (acetyl glucosamine, arginine, glycerin, butylene glycol and caprylyl glycol) help to increase the water content in the upper layer of the skin. (These ingredients do so by "capturing" water molecules from the outside air or from within the deeper layers of the skin). Octyldodecyl neopentanoate, arginine, butyrospermum parkii butter, cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol in this product help decrease the water evoporation from the skin, so that it stays hydrated for longer. These ingredients also soften the skin and take away the feeling of tightness and dryness.

Ingredient callouts

  • this moisturizer contains an effective form of retinoids (vitamin A): retinol 0.10% - 0.45%. Retinoids are potent multitasking actives. They work to improve and prevent early signs of aging, reduce hyperpigmentation (age spots and post-acne marks), and prevent inflamed blemishes and clogged pores. The downside of retinoids is that they can be irritating. If you are not already using a retinoid in your routine, it is best to start slowly and apply the retinoid product only a few times per week. If your skin tolerates it well, you can gradually increase the frequency to daily. Because of the irritation risk of retinoids, we recommend to have another, retinoid-free moisturizer in your routine to use on the alternative days or when your skin feels dry.

Irritation risk

This moisturizer contains a bunch of common irritants, including ingredients that do not provide any known benefit for the skin. It might not be the best choice if your skin is sensitive. We assess the overall irritancy of this moisturizer to be high. For a detailed overview of all potential irritants: click here

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

Price

The product retails for 76.00£ in the United Kingdom.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 23 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    The effect of N-acetyl-glucosamine on stratum corneum desquamation and water content in human skinncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Glucosamine: an ingredient with skin and other benefitsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    Genomic expression changes induced by topical N-acetyl glucosamine in skin equivalent cultures in vitroonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  4. 4
    Incorporation of D-(^H)glucosamine into normal and psoriatic epidermal glycoconjugatesonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  5. 5
    Reduction in the appearance of facial hyperpigmentation by topical N-acetyl glucosamineonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  6. 6
    Dimethicone as a protective ingredient in topical medicationsjaad.org
NEOSTRATA Enlighten Pigment Controller Cream with Retinol & Vitamin C
NEOSTRATAEnlighten Pigment Controller Cream with Retinol & Vitamin C
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As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.