Name: NourishMax -
Brand: NourishMax

What's In My Jar

NourishMax

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh

See all ingredients

Works for

Moisturizing

Niacinamide, Linoleic acid + 28 more

Works well

What the product description says

“• Delivers deep, long-lasting hydration to support smoother, healthier skin”

Source: Nourishmax

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: aphanizomenon flos-aquae extract, 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: caprylic/capric triglyceride, linolenic acid.

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

NiacinamideHeroEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.6–2%

Linoleic acidHero· EmollientEffect: HighAn excellent emollient. Helps soften the skin, restore its barrier function, and can help to calm down inflammation. It can be helpful to prevent blemishes and clogged pores~0.55–0.8%

PanthenolHero· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function~0.5–0.7%

Caprylic/capric triglycerideKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~5.5–6.7%

Coconut alkanesKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin~3.2–3.9%

Coco-caprylate/caprateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture~2.4–2.9%

GlutathioneKey activeEffect: HighA peptide that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and reduce melanin production resulting in skin lightening effect and reduction in hyperpigmentation. It can also help attract moisture to the upper layer of the skin~0.9–1.1%

Linolenic acidKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that helps soften the skin and calm down inflammation~0.55–0.8%

Saccharomyces/copper fermentKey active· HumectantEffect: HighYeast extract that contains copper. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help in skin wound healing~0.45–0.65%

Saccharomyces/iron fermentKey active· HumectantEffect: HighYeast extract that contains iron. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Evidence of effectiveness for other benefits is missing~0.4–0.6%

Saccharomyces/manganese fermentKey activeEffect: MediumA yeast extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.35–0.6%

Saccharomyces/silicon fermentKey active· HumectantEffect: HighYeast extract that contains silicon. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Evidence of effectiveness for other benefits is missing~0.3–0.55%

Glycine soja seed extractKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.3–0.6%

Corallina officinalis extractKey activeEffect: HighRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.25–0.5%

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~0.25–0.45%

Saccharomyces/zinc fermentKey active· HumectantEffect: HighYeast extract that contains zinc. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Evidence of effectiveness for other benefits is missing~0.25–0.5%

LysineKey activeEffect: HighAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.5%

Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.25–0.5%

Aphanizomenon flos-aquae extractKey active· HumectantEffect: HighAn extract from ablue-green algae. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to neutralize free radicals~0.25–0.5%

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acidKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin. A version of it is naturally present in skin~0.25–0.5%

Hydrogenated starch hydrolysateKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Can add sweet taste to lip products~0.25–0.45%

Palmitic acid· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that is naturally present in skin and helps soften it~0.3–0.55%

Oleic acid· EmollientEffect: LowHelps soften the upper layer of the skin. At the same time, it can weaken the skin's barrier enhancing penetration of other ingredients and increasing the risk of skin dryness~0.3–0.6%

Moringa oleifera seed oil· EmollientEffect: LowA plant oil that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Is unlikely to be helpful in restoring skin barrier function due to the low content of linoleic acid~0.3–0.55%

Camellia sinensis leaf extractEffect: LowCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.3–0.55%

Magnesium gluconateEffect: LowA mineral that might be able to support skin hydration, but convincing research on its effectiveness in topical skincare is lacking~0.25–0.5%

Sorbitol· HumectantEffect: LowHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improves the product texture~0.2–0.4%

Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.15–0.25%

Stearic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~0.4–0.6%

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~0.3–0.5%

Evens skin tone

Niacinamide, Glutathione + 3 more

Works well

What the product description says

“• Brightens and evens the appearance of skin tone for a radiant, glowing complexion”

Source: Nourishmax

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

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

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

NiacinamideKey activeEffect: HighIs proven to be effective in reducing blemishes, evening out skin tone and helping to improve lines and wrinkles. It helps the skin to repair sun damage, calm down inflammation and keep maintain good levels of moisture. The concentration of about 2% is effective for supporting the skin barrier and evening out the skin tone. Concentration of 4-6% is better for helping with acne and balancing the sebum production~1.6–2%

Glycine soja seed extractEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.3–0.6%

Ascorbic acidUnder-dosedThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of aging~1.2–1.5%

Anti-oxidation

Side benefit · Glutathione, Camellia sinensis leaf extract + 13 more

Works well

This product contains antioxidants (glutathione) 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 - aphanizomenon flos-aquae extract, camellia sinensis leaf extract also can have an antioxidant effect, but there is less evidence to confirm their effectiveness in skin.

Camellia sinensis leaf extractKey activeEffect: MediumCan contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation~0.3–0.55%

Aphanizomenon flos-aquae extractKey activeEffect: MediumAn extract from ablue-green algae. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to neutralize free radicals~0.25–0.5%

Daucus carota sativa seed oilEffect: LowA plant oil that might help neutralize free radicals and have an anti-bacterial effect~0.55–0.85%

Prunus persica fruit extractEffect: LowA fruit extact. Might have some anti-oxidant properties~0.4–0.6%

Aloe barbadensis flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect~0.3–0.55%

Glycine soja seed extractEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.3–0.6%

Ocimum sanctum leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that is rich in a fragrance compound eugenol that is a frequent allergen and can be irritating. It might also contain anti-oxidants to help neutralize free radicals~0.25–0.5%

Melia azadirachta flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin~0.25–0.5%

Coccinia indica fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skin~0.25–0.5%

Corallina officinalis extractEffect: LowRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.25–0.5%

Solanum melongena fruit extractEffect: LowEggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effect~0.25–0.5%

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extractEffect: Low, below effective doseCan be helpful in reducing inflammation in skin, including inflamed acne. It can be irritating~0.25–0.45%

TocopherolUnder-dosedPure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself~0.3–0.5%

Anti-blemish

Side benefit · Niacinamide, Linoleic acid + 3 more

Works well

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

The following ingredient (ingredients) in this product might be helpful, but there is no evidence to confirm that it actually works: linoleic acid

Linoleic acidKey activeEffect: MediumAn excellent emollient. Helps soften the skin, restore its barrier function, and can help to calm down inflammation. It can be helpful to prevent blemishes and clogged pores~0.55–0.8%

Melia azadirachta leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritating~0.25–0.5%

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extractUnder-dosedCan be helpful in reducing inflammation in skin, including inflamed acne. It can be irritating~0.25–0.45%

Anti-aging

Side benefit the brand mentions · Niacinamide, Lysine + 4 more

Works well

What the product description says

“Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Boosts skin elasticity and firmness.”

Source: Nourishmax

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

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

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.

LysineKey activeEffect: MediumAn amino-acid that helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. In combination with other amino-acids, might help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles~0.25–0.5%

Glycine soja seed extractEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.~0.3–0.6%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

7 strong irritants: Lavandula angustifolia extract, Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract + 5 more — patch-test recommended

High risk

We flagged 34 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.

IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount

Ascorbic acidThe most well-researched antioxidant that works in skin. Helps neutralize free radicals supporting collagen production, helping to even out the skin tone and preventing early signs of agingHigh~1.2–1.5%est.

Curcuma longa root extractA plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritantHigh~0.25–0.45%est.

Melia azadirachta leaf extractA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritatingHigh~0.25–0.5%est.

Lavandula angustifolia extractUsed for fragrance and contains volatile compounds that can irritate the skinHigh~0.25–0.5%est.

Prunus persica fruit extractA fruit extact. Might have some anti-oxidant propertiesHigh~0.4–0.6%est.

Aloe barbadensis flower extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effectHigh~0.3–0.55%est.

Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extractUsed as a fragrance. Canbe irritatingHigh~0.25–0.5%est.

Ocimum sanctum leaf extractA plant extract that is rich in a fragrance compound eugenol that is a frequent allergen and can be irritating. It might also contain anti-oxidants to help neutralize free radicalsHigh~0.25–0.5%est.

Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extractUsed as a fragranceHigh~0.2–0.4%est.

Plumeria rubra flower extractUsed to add a nice smell to the product. Can be irritatingHigh~0.25–0.5%est.

Rose extractUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.25–0.5%est.

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extractCan be helpful in reducing inflammation in skin, including inflamed acne. It can be irritatingHigh~0.25–0.45%est.

Vanilla planifolia fruit extractA plant extract used as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.25–0.5%est.

Decyl glucosideHelps oil and water mix together. Can be irritatingHigh~0.25–0.5%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~5.5–6.7%est.

Coconut alkanesAn emollient that helps soften the skinMedium~3.2–3.9%est.

Ethyl macadamiateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~1.9–2.3%est.

GlutathioneA peptide that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and reduce melanin production resulting in skin lightening effect and reduction in hyperpigmentation. It can also help attract moisture to the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.9–1.1%est.

GoldA colorant. Does not have any proven benefits in skinMedium~0.65–1%est.

Linolenic acidAn emollient that helps soften the skin and calm down inflammationMedium~0.55–0.8%est.

Saccharomyces/manganese fermentA yeast extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.35–0.6%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~0.25–0.5%est.

Glycine soja seed extractAn emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.Medium~0.3–0.6%est.

Melia azadirachta flower extractA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.25–0.5%est.

Coccinia indica fruit extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.25–0.5%est.

Solanum melongena fruit extractEggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effectMedium~0.25–0.5%est.

Moringa oleifera seed oilA plant oil that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Is unlikely to be helpful in restoring skin barrier function due to the low content of linoleic acidMedium~0.3–0.55%est.

Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrateA preservative that comes from radishes fermented by a bacteria. New research suggests that the preservation properties in the ingredient come from an ammonium salt that is not present naturally in radish root but used in its cultivation. Is problematic because the exact amount of the preservative agents is difficult to determineMedium~0.25–0.5%est.

Oleic acidHelps soften the upper layer of the skin. At the same time, it can weaken the skin's barrier enhancing penetration of other ingredients and increasing the risk of skin drynessMedium~0.3–0.6%est.

Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.2–0.4%est.

Potassium sorbateA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.25%est.

EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~0.15–0.25%est.

Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.15–0.25%est.

Comedogenic

3 ingredients rated 2 or more on the 0–5 pore-clogging scale

3 flagged

These ingredients have a comedogenic rating of 2 or more on a 0–5 scale; the table shows each one's rating. In leave-on products they can clog pores in acne-prone skin.

IngredientFunctionRatingEst. amount

Corallina officinalis extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants3/5~0.25–0.5%est.

Fucus vesiculosus extract—3/5~0.3–0.5%est.

Coconut alkanesAn emollient that helps soften the skin2/5~3.2–3.9%est.

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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Caprylic/capric triglyceride~5.5–6.7%

Key activeIrritant · 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

Propanediol~4.2–5.1%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

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

More about Propanediol

Coconut alkanes~3.2–3.9%

Key activeComedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium
Comedogenicity: 2/5

Works for

Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Coconut alkanes

Coco-caprylate/caprate~2.4–2.9%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin without creating a greasy texture

More about Coco-caprylate/caprate

Ethyl macadamiate~1.9–2.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Ethyl macadamiate

Niacinamide~1.6–2%

Hero · Moisturizing, Anti-blemish

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Evens skin toneAnti-agingMoisturizingAnti-blemishReduces irritationAntibacterialAnti-inflammatoryReduces redness

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

More about Niacinamide

Sodium chloride~1.5–1.8%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

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

More about Sodium chloride

Ascorbic acid~1.2–1.5%

Under-dosedIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-agingEvens skin toneAnti-oxidation

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

More about Ascorbic acid

Glutathione~0.9–1.1%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Evens skin toneMoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A peptide that can help neutralize free radicals in skin and reduce melanin production resulting in skin lightening effect and reduction in hyperpigmentation. It can also help attract moisture to the upper layer of the skin

More about Glutathione

Gold~0.65–1%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A colorant. Does not have any proven benefits in skin

More about Gold

Daucus carota sativa seed oil~0.55–0.85%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-oxidationAntibacterial

A plant oil that might help neutralize free radicals and have an anti-bacterial effect

More about Daucus carota sativa seed oil

Panthenol~0.5–0.7%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Reduces rednessMoisturizingReduces irritation

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

More about Panthenol

Linolenic acid~0.55–0.8%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

MoisturizingCleansingReduces irritationAnti-inflammatory

An emollient that helps soften the skin and calm down inflammation

More about Linolenic acid

Linoleic acid~0.55–0.8%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizingAnti-blemish

An excellent emollient. Helps soften the skin, restore its barrier function, and can help to calm down inflammation. It can be helpful to prevent blemishes and clogged pores

More about Linoleic acid

Saccharomyces/copper ferment~0.45–0.65%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Yeast extract that contains copper. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help in skin wound healing

More about Saccharomyces/copper ferment

Saccharomyces/iron ferment~0.4–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Yeast extract that contains iron. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Evidence of effectiveness for other benefits is missing

More about Saccharomyces/iron ferment

Saccharomyces/manganese ferment~0.35–0.6%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

A yeast extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Saccharomyces/manganese ferment

Saccharomyces/potassium ferment~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Saccharomyces/potassium ferment

Saccharomyces/silicon ferment~0.3–0.55%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Yeast extract that contains silicon. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Evidence of effectiveness for other benefits is missing

More about Saccharomyces/silicon ferment

Saccharomyces/zinc ferment~0.25–0.5%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Yeast extract that contains zinc. Can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Evidence of effectiveness for other benefits is missing

More about Saccharomyces/zinc ferment

Magnesium gluconate~0.25–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A mineral that might be able to support skin hydration, but convincing research on its effectiveness in topical skincare is lacking

More about Magnesium gluconate

Sodium citrate~0.25–0.5%

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

Lysine~0.25–0.5%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-aging

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

More about Lysine

Aphanizomenon flos-aquae extract~0.25–0.5%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

An extract from ablue-green algae. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might help to neutralize free radicals

More about Aphanizomenon flos-aquae extract

Glycine soja seed extract~0.3–0.6%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-oxidationReduces rednessEvens skin toneAnti-aging

An emollient that helps soften the skin. Might be somewhat helpful in evening the skin tone.

More about Glycine soja seed extract

Curcuma longa root extract~0.25–0.45%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-inflammatory

A plant extract that can contain an active compound curcumin, that may have some anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, but solid research is lacking and the typical concentration used in skincare products is too low. Can be an irritant

More about Curcuma longa root extract

Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid~0.25–0.5%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin. A version of it is naturally present in skin

More about Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid

Melia azadirachta flower extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Melia azadirachta flower extract

Melia azadirachta leaf extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

AntibacterialAnti-blemish

A plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritating

More about Melia azadirachta leaf extract

Lavandula angustifolia extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used for fragrance and contains volatile compounds that can irritate the skin

More about Lavandula angustifolia extract

Corallina officinalis extract~0.25–0.5%

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 and might contain antioxidants

More about Corallina officinalis extract

Camellia sinensis leaf extract~0.3–0.55%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

AntibacterialAnti-oxidationAnti-agingAnti-blemishEvens skin toneMoisturizing

Can contain potent anti-oxidant compounds (abbreviated ECG, GCG, EGC, and EGCG) that might help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties. Unfortunately, these antioxidants are unstable and lose their effectiveness very quickly in products. The concentration of the antioxidant compounds in the extract also tends to be low to be effective in topical formulation

More about Camellia sinensis leaf extract

Prunus persica fruit extract~0.4–0.6%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A fruit extact. Might have some anti-oxidant properties

More about Prunus persica fruit extract

Coccinia indica fruit extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skin

More about Coccinia indica fruit extract

Melia azadirachta bark extract~0.3–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Melia azadirachta bark extract

Aloe barbadensis flower extract~0.3–0.55%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect

More about Aloe barbadensis flower extract

Solanum melongena fruit extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

Eggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effect

More about Solanum melongena fruit extract

Moringa oleifera seed oil~0.3–0.55%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

A plant oil that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Is unlikely to be helpful in restoring skin barrier function due to the low content of linoleic acid

More about Moringa oleifera seed oil

Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance. Canbe irritating

More about Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract

Ocimum sanctum leaf extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that is rich in a fragrance compound eugenol that is a frequent allergen and can be irritating. It might also contain anti-oxidants to help neutralize free radicals

More about Ocimum sanctum leaf extract

Cupressus sempervirens leaf/stem extract~0.25–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Cupressus sempervirens leaf/stem extract

Fucus vesiculosus extract~0.3–0.5%

Comedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

More about Fucus vesiculosus extract

Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extract~0.2–0.4%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance

More about Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extract

Plumeria rubra flower extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

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

More about Plumeria rubra flower extract

Rose extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Rose extract

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract~0.25–0.45%

Under-dosedIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-blemishAnti-oxidationAntibacterial

Can be helpful in reducing inflammation in skin, including inflamed acne. It can be irritating

More about Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract

Vanilla planifolia fruit extract~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

A plant extract used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Vanilla planifolia fruit extract

Tocopherol~0.3–0.5%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-oxidationAnti-inflammatoryAnti-agingMoisturizing

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

Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative that comes from radishes fermented by a bacteria. New research suggests that the preservation properties in the ingredient come from an ammonium salt that is not present naturally in radish root but used in its cultivation. Is problematic because the exact amount of the preservative agents is difficult to determine

More about Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate

Sodium hyaluronate~0.25–0.5%

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

Oleic acid~0.3–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

CleansingMoisturizingAnti-inflammatory

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin. At the same time, it can weaken the skin's barrier enhancing penetration of other ingredients and increasing the risk of skin dryness

More about Oleic acid

Malic acid~0.25–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps adjust the product pH

More about Malic acid

Palmitic acid~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

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

More about Palmitic acid

Xanthan gum~0.25–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum

Stearic acid~0.4–0.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid

Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate~0.25–0.45%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Can add sweet taste to lip products

More about Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate

Glycerin~0.25–0.45%

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

Citric acid~0.2–0.4%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

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

More about Citric acid

Sorbitol~0.2–0.4%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improves the product texture

More about Sorbitol

Decyl glucoside~0.25–0.5%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together. Can be irritating

More about Decyl glucoside

Potassium sorbate~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Potassium sorbate

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Phenoxyethanol~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol

1,2-hexanediol~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol

Caprylyl glycol~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol

Ingredient list view

Water, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Propanediol, Coconut alkanes, Coco-caprylate/caprate, Ethyl macadamiate, Niacinamide, Sodium chloride, Ascorbic acid, Glutathione, Gold, Daucus carota sativa seed oil, Panthenol, Linolenic acid, Linoleic acid, Saccharomyces/copper ferment, Saccharomyces/iron ferment, Saccharomyces/manganese ferment, Saccharomyces/potassium ferment, Saccharomyces/silicon ferment, Saccharomyces/zinc ferment, Magnesium gluconate, Sodium citrate, Lysine, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae extract, Glycine soja seed extract, Curcuma longa root extract, Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, Melia azadirachta flower extract, Melia azadirachta leaf extract, Lavandula angustifolia extract, Corallina officinalis extract, Camellia sinensis leaf extract, Prunus persica fruit extract, Coccinia indica fruit extract, Melia azadirachta bark extract, Aloe barbadensis flower extract, Solanum melongena fruit extract, Moringa oleifera seed oil, Ocimum basilicum flower/leaf extract, Ocimum sanctum leaf extract, Cupressus sempervirens leaf/stem extract, Fucus vesiculosus extract, Jasminum officinale flower/leaf extract, Plumeria rubra flower extract, Rose extract, Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract, Vanilla planifolia fruit extract, Tocopherol, Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate, Sodium hyaluronate, Oleic acid, Malic acid, Palmitic acid, Xanthan gum, Stearic acid, Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, Glycerin, Citric acid, Sorbitol, Decyl glucoside, Potassium sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-hexanediol, Caprylyl glycol

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Nourishmax

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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
	NourishMaxYOUR PRODUCT	BiobareVitamin C, B, E & Ferulic Serum	ORGANYS20% Vitamin C Serum	LieracMésolift C15 Extemporaneous Anti-Fatigue Revitalizing Concentrate
Match	—	78%	76%	74%
Price	$39.00	—	—	—
Shared key ingredients	—	5 of 21	1 of 21	5 of 21
Key difference	—	Ferulic Acid	—	Magnesium Aspartate
Irritancy	High	Medium	Medium	Medium
Drying alcohol	—	—	—	—
	View product	Shop	Shop	Shop

More alternatives: Noreva Iklen+ [Pure-C-Reverse] Regenerating & Perfecting Booster Serum Hanskin Vitamin C Glow Serum

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Product summary

Judging from the ingredient list, "NourishMax -" works well for improving skin hydration As we expect from a proper moisturizer, the formula includes a combo of effective humectants and emollients. These are the two different types of ingredients that are essential for improving the skin hydration and supporting a healthy skin barrier. Humectants in this product (panthenol, aphanizomenon flos-aquae extract, glycerin, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid and saccharomyces/copper ferment) 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). Emollients in this formulation (linoleic acid, linolenic acid, caprylic/capric triglyceride, coco-caprylate/caprate and coconut alkanes) help to reduce the moisture loss from the skin. They also soften the skin surface and relieve the feeling of dryness and tightness.

Ingredient callouts

We particularly like that there is a good concentration of Niacinamide (1.60% - 2.00%) in this moisturizer. Niacinamide is a well-studied multi-tasking active. It is a great ingredient to have in a moisturizer. It is stable, and can work well in almost any hydrating formulation. There is solid evidence that Niacinamide can help support skin barrier, regulate oil production and reduce acne and clogged pores. It also helps to fight photodamage and help improve the skin tone, reducing pigmentation marks.
This product also contains Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). It can be an effective active for anti-aging and evening out the skin tone, but in this moisturizer it is used for stabilizing other ingredients in the formulation. In this concentration (1.20% - 1.50%) it cannot have a noticeable benefit for the skin.
We love that there is also Linoleic Acid in this moisturizer (0.55% - 0.80%). Linoleic Acid is one of the skin's natural emollients. It supports the skin barrier and can even help reduce clogged pores.

This product contains ingredients that could be beneficial, but their concentrations are too low in this formulation: stearic acid, vitamin e and vitamin c

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 24.54CA$ in Canada, for 16.99A$ in Australia, for 9.99£ in the United Kingdom and for 39.99$ in the United States.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 34 studies and safety reviews.

1
Safety Assessment of Alkyl Esters as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
2
Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
3
Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
4
Glutathione as a skin whitening agent: Facts, myths, evidence and controversiesijdvl.com
5
Glutathione for skin lightening: a regnant myth or evidence-based verity?ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
6
Glutathione for skin lightening for dermatologists and cosmetologistsijord.com
7
New Claims for Wild Carrot (Daucus carota subsp. carota) Essential Oilncbi.nlm.nih.gov
8
Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulationspdfs.semanticscholar.org
9
Safety Assessment of Panthenol, Pantothenic Acid, and Derivatives as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
10
The Permeability Barrier in Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency: Evidence for a Direct Role for Linoleic Acid in Barrier Functionsciencedirect.com
11
Digital image analysis of the effect of topically applied linoleic acid on acne microcomedones.europepmc.org
12
Topical palmitoyl pentapeptide provides improvement in photoaged human facial skinonlinelibrary.wiley.com
13
Effects of the Aphanizomenon flos-aquae Extract (Klamin®) on a Neurodegeneration Cellular Modelhindawi.com
14
Vaughn, A. R., Branum, A., & Sivamani, R. K. (2016). Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence. Phytotherapy Research, 30(8), 1243–1264. doi:10.1002/ptr.5640ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
15
Efficacy of a New Topical Nano-hyaluronic Acid in Humansncbi.nlm.nih.gov
16
Physiochemical properties and application of hyaluronic acid: a systematic reviewonlinelibrary.wiley.com
17
Melia azedarachmdedge.com
18
Preliminary and Pharmacological Profile of Melia azedarach L.: An Overviewjapsonline.com
19
In Vitro antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanol extract of eggplant (Solanum melongena) stalks in macrophage RAW 264.7 cellstandfonline.com
20
Moringa oleifera seed oil: Composition, nutritional aspects and health attributesresearchgate.net
21
Moringa oleifera Seeds and Oil: Characteristics and Uses for Human Healthncbi.nlm.nih.gov
22
Allergic contact dermatitis induced by rosemary leaf extract in a cleansing gelpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
23
Safety Assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmeticsjournals.sagepub.com
24
Rosmarinus officinalis Extract Suppresses Propionibacterium acnes–Induced Inflammatory Responsesliebertpub.com
25
Vitamin E in dermatologyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
26
Vitamin E and Skin Healthlpi.oregonstate.edu
27
Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin agingncbi.nlm.nih.gov
28
Hyaluronan (Hyaluronic Acid): a natural moisturizer for skin careresearchgate.net
29
Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oilsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
30
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0168365995000887sciencedirect.com
31
Safety assessment of hydrogenated starch hydrolysatesncbi.nlm.nih.gov
32
Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
33
Ecofriendly surfactant is allergen of the yearmdedge.com
34
The influence of alkane chain length on the skin irritation potential of 1,2-alkanediolsncbi.nlm.nih.gov

NourishMax

Buy at Nourishmax$39.00 Amazon

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Buy at Nourishmax$39.00 Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.