numbuzin

numbuzin No.3 Blue Bio-Retinol Pore Refining Serum

Name: numbuzin - No.3 Blue Bio-Retinol Pore Refining Serum
Brand: numbuzin

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh

See all ingredients

Works for

Evens skin tone

Retinol, Niacinamide + 1 more

Works well

What the product description says

“DESCRIPTION Numbuzin No.3 Blue Bio-Retinol Pore Refining Serum evens out skin tone, tightens pores, and controls excess sebum in skin.”

Source: Lila Beauty

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 niacinamide. This ingredient (ingredients) might help reduce hyperpigmentation, but the effect, if any, is likely to be small.

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~0.3–0.5%

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~4.7–5.7%

Salicylic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseUsed for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)~0.45–0.7%

Anti-blemish

Niacinamide, Retinol + 3 more

Works well

What the product description says

“DESCRIPTION Numbuzin No.3 Blue Bio-Retinol Pore Refining Serum evens out skin tone, tightens pores, and controls excess sebum in skin.”

Source: Lila Beauty

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

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~4.7–5.7%

Melia azadirachta leaf extractEffect: LowA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritating~0.15–0.3%

Centella asiatica extractEffect: Low, below effective doseA plant extract that has been shown to be able to reduce inflammation in skin, support restoration of skin barrier function, as well as support collagen production. Contains active compounds called centelloids: asiaticoside, madecasosside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. Might be helpful in preventing stretch marks. It can be itself be irritating though.~0.4–0.65%

Salicylic acidUnder-dosedUsed for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)~0.45–0.7%

Anti-aging

Retinol, Niacinamide + 4 more

Works well

What the product description says

“A pore-shrinking face serum to help create plump and youthful-looking skin.”

Source: Lila Beauty

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

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: copper tripeptide-1.

Keep in mind that it typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice any results because the changes that are needed to improve fine lines and elasticity happen in the deeper layers of the skin. No topical anti-aging product can “erase” wrinkles or fully reverse signs of aging.

AdenosineKey activeEffect: HighMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.3–0.55%

Copper tripeptide-1Key activeEffect: MediumA naturally occurring peptide. One of the most studied peptides in dermatology. It is sometimes abbreviated GHK-Cu. Belongs to the class of carrier peptides. It stimulates both synthesis and breakdown of collagen in skin. It is released in skin wounds and inflammation to support healing. It accelerates wound-healing of the skin and can stimulate hair growth. There are preliminary studies that confirm that copper tripeptide can help support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles and decrease inflammation in skin.~0.25–0.45%

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~0.3–0.55%

Centella asiatica extractUnder-dosedA plant extract that has been shown to be able to reduce inflammation in skin, support restoration of skin barrier function, as well as support collagen production. Contains active compounds called centelloids: asiaticoside, madecasosside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. Might be helpful in preventing stretch marks. It can be itself be irritating though.~0.4–0.65%

Exfoliation

Side benefit · Retinol, Salicylic acid

Works well

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.

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~0.3–0.5%

Anti-oxidation

Side benefit · Retinol, Chlorella vulgaris extract + 10 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).

Chlorella vulgaris extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties~0.3–0.6%

AdenosineEffect: LowMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.3–0.55%

Coccinia indica fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skin~0.2–0.35%

Melia azadirachta flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin~0.2–0.4%

Aloe barbadensis flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect~0.2–0.35%

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~0.15–0.25%

Solanum melongena fruit extractEffect: LowEggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effect~0.15–0.3%

Corallina officinalis extractEffect: LowRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.1–0.2%

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.~0.3–0.6%

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~0.3–0.55%

Moisturizing

Side benefit · Niacinamide, Panthenol + 20 more

Works well

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: glycerin, glyceryl glucoside.

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, cholesterol.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: copper tripeptide-1, niacinamide, panthenol

PanthenolHero· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function~0.4–0.6%

Copper tripeptide-1HeroEffect: HighA naturally occurring peptide. One of the most studied peptides in dermatology. It is sometimes abbreviated GHK-Cu. Belongs to the class of carrier peptides. It stimulates both synthesis and breakdown of collagen in skin. It is released in skin wounds and inflammation to support healing. It accelerates wound-healing of the skin and can stimulate hair growth. There are preliminary studies that confirm that copper tripeptide can help support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles and decrease inflammation in skin.~0.25–0.45%

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~2.4–3%

Glyceryl glucosideKey active· HumectantEffect: HighCan help to restore skin barrier function and soften its upper layer~1.4–1.7%

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~1–1.3%

Hydrolyzed collagenKey active· Humectant, EmollientEffect: HighA typically plant-derived compound that is supposed mimic human collagen. Cannot penetrate the skin barrier so is not particularly useful in skincare products beyond attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~0.55–0.8%

CholesterolKey active· EmollientEffect: HighAn emollient that is naturally found in skin~0.4–0.6%

Macadamia ternifolia seed oilKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumPlant oil from nuts that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Contains a high concentration of oleic acid that can weaken skin's barrier function and increase water-loss while enhancing penetration of other ingredients~0.35–0.65%

Brassica campestris sterolsKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelp soften the upper layer of the skin~0.35–0.6%

Glycine soja oilKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.~0.3–0.55%

GlycineKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help restore the skin barrier function~0.3–0.55%

GlucoseKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Could be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function~0.3–0.55%

Chlorella vulgaris extractKey activeEffect: MediumA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties~0.3–0.6%

AdenosineKey activeEffect: MediumMight help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)~0.3–0.55%

Corallina officinalis extractKey activeEffect: HighRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.1–0.2%

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~4–4.9%

Pentylene glycol· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture~1.7–2.1%

Dextrin· HumectantEffect: LowA sugar that is used to stabilize the product formulation. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.35–0.6%

LecithinEffect: Low, below effective doseUsed mostly for creating emulsions - helping oil and water mix together. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.35–0.65%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

3 strong irritants: Gardenia florida fruit extract, Retinol + 1 more — patch-test recommended

High risk

We flagged 27 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.

IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount

Salicylic acidUsed for skin exfoliation. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effect, helps to unclog pores, prevent blemishes and speed up healing of the existing ones. Sometimes referred to as a BHA (beta-hydroxy acid)High~0.45–0.7%est.

Gardenia florida fruit extractUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritating.High~0.3–0.55%est.

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~0.3–0.5%est.

Melia azadirachta leaf extractA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.3%est.

Aloe barbadensis flower extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effectHigh~0.2–0.35%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~0.15–0.25%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~0.05–0.15%est.

Pentylene glycolUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product textureMedium~1.7–2.1%est.

1,2-hexanediolA preservativeMedium~0.75–1.1%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~1–1.3%est.

Calcium chlorideHelps create a thicker product consistency. Might be irritatingMedium~0.55–0.8%est.

Ppg-13-decyltetradeceth-24Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.4–0.65%est.

Chlorella vulgaris extractA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory propertiesMedium~0.3–0.6%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~0.3–0.55%est.

Centella asiatica extractA plant extract that has been shown to be able to reduce inflammation in skin, support restoration of skin barrier function, as well as support collagen production. Contains active compounds called centelloids: asiaticoside, madecasosside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. Might be helpful in preventing stretch marks. It can be itself be irritating though.Medium~0.4–0.65%est.

Acacia senegal gumHelps mask the small of other ingredients and improve the product textureMedium~0.3–0.6%est.

Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.3–0.55%est.

EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.3–0.55%est.

Macadamia ternifolia seed oilPlant oil from nuts that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Contains a high concentration of oleic acid that can weaken skin's barrier function and increase water-loss while enhancing penetration of other ingredientsMedium~0.35–0.65%est.

Polyglyceryl-10 laurateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.3–0.6%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~0.3–0.6%est.

Potassium cetyl phosphateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.35–0.6%est.

Glycine soja oilA good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.Medium~0.3–0.55%est.

Diethylhexyl syringylidenemalonateUsed to stabilize the product formulationMedium~0.3–0.55%est.

Melia azadirachta flower extractA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.2–0.4%est.

Coccinia indica fruit extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.2–0.35%est.

Solanum melongena fruit extractEggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effectMedium~0.15–0.3%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

Chlorella vulgaris extractA plant extract that can help to attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties3/5~0.3–0.6%est.

Corallina officinalis extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants3/5~0.1–0.2%est.

Glycine soja oilA good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.2/5~0.3–0.55%est.

Alternatives

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ISNTREE Hyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum

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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

Niacinamide~4.7–5.7%

Hero · Moisturizing, Anti-blemish

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Evens skin toneAnti-blemishAnti-agingMoisturizingReduces irritationAntibacterialReduces rednessAnti-inflammatory

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

Butylene glycol~4–4.9%

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

Propanediol~3.1–3.7%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

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

More about Propanediol

Glycerin~2.4–3%

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

Dipropylene glycol~1.9–2.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps to dissolve other ingredients in a formulation. Slows down the rate of product drying

More about Dipropylene glycol

Pentylene glycol~1.7–2.1%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Used to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture

More about Pentylene glycol

Glyceryl glucoside~1.4–1.7%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Can help to restore skin barrier function and soften its upper layer

More about Glyceryl glucoside

1,2-hexanediol~0.75–1.1%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol

Caprylic/capric triglyceride~1–1.3%

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

Glycereth-26~0.7–1.05%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps create a thicker product consistency

More about Glycereth-26

C12-14 alketh-12~0.65–1%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about C12-14 alketh-12

Polysorbate 20~0.6–0.9%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 20

Calcium chloride~0.55–0.8%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Helps create a thicker product consistency. Might be irritating

More about Calcium chloride

Salicylic acid~0.45–0.7%

Under-dosedIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-blemishExfoliationAnti-inflammatoryAntibacterialEvens skin tone

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

More about Salicylic acid

Hydrolyzed collagen~0.55–0.8%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A typically plant-derived compound that is supposed mimic human collagen. Cannot penetrate the skin barrier so is not particularly useful in skincare products beyond attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrolyzed collagen

Gellan gum~0.5–0.75%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Used to improve the product texture

More about Gellan gum

Honokiol~0.45–0.65%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Honokiol

Panthenol~0.4–0.6%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingReduces rednessReduces irritation

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

More about Panthenol

Ppg-13-decyltetradeceth-24~0.4–0.65%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Ppg-13-decyltetradeceth-24

Hydrolyzed sclerotium gum~0.35–0.65%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Hydrolyzed sclerotium gum

Chlorella vulgaris extract~0.3–0.6%

Key activeComedogenic 3/5Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium
Comedogenicity: 3/5

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-oxidation

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

More about Chlorella vulgaris extract

Sodium citrate~0.3–0.55%

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

Centella asiatica extract~0.4–0.65%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Reduces irritationReduces rednessMoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-agingAnti-oxidationAnti-blemish

A plant extract that has been shown to be able to reduce inflammation in skin, support restoration of skin barrier function, as well as support collagen production. Contains active compounds called centelloids: asiaticoside, madecasosside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. Might be helpful in preventing stretch marks. It can be itself be irritating though.

More about Centella asiatica extract

Glucose~0.3–0.55%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Could be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function

More about Glucose

Gardenia florida fruit extract~0.3–0.55%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Used as a fragrance. Can be irritating.

More about Gardenia florida fruit extract

Adenosine~0.3–0.55%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-agingMoisturizingAnti-oxidation

Might help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation in skin. One study shows that the ingredients might be able to help reduce dynamic wrinkles (for example, in the corners of the eyes or on the forehead)

More about Adenosine

Acacia senegal gum~0.3–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Helps mask the small of other ingredients and improve the product texture

More about Acacia senegal gum

Citric acid~0.3–0.55%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

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

More about Citric acid

Panax ginseng adventitious root extracellular vesicles~0.25–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Panax ginseng adventitious root extracellular vesicles

Dextrin~0.35–0.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A sugar that is used to stabilize the product formulation. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Dextrin

Lecithin~0.35–0.65%

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

Cynanchum atratum extract~0.25–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Cynanchum atratum extract

Silica~0.45–0.7%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Used to absorb oil and can temporarily mattify skin

More about Silica

Centella asiatica callus extracellular vesicles~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Centella asiatica callus extracellular vesicles

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.3–0.55%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Macadamia ternifolia seed oil~0.35–0.65%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Plant oil from nuts that helps soften the upper layer of the skin. Contains a high concentration of oleic acid that can weaken skin's barrier function and increase water-loss while enhancing penetration of other ingredients

More about Macadamia ternifolia seed oil

Retinol~0.3–0.5%

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

Hydrogenated lecithin~0.3–0.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps to retain moisture by creating a protective barrier on the skin. Rich in fatty acids. Improves product texture and helps with the penetration of other ingredients.

More about Hydrogenated lecithin

Althaea rosea flower extract~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Althaea rosea flower extract

Brassica campestris sterols~0.35–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Help soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Brassica campestris sterols

Glycine~0.3–0.55%

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

Cholesterol~0.4–0.6%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that is naturally found in skin

More about Cholesterol

Polyglyceryl-10 laurate~0.3–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polyglyceryl-10 laurate

Phytosteryl/behenyl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Phytosteryl/behenyl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate

Tocopheryl acetate~0.3–0.6%

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

Aluminum/magnesium hydroxide stearate~0.3–0.55%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Aluminum/magnesium hydroxide stearate

Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate~0.3–0.6%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Used to increase stability of product formulations

More about Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate

Potassium cetyl phosphate~0.35–0.6%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Potassium cetyl phosphate

Glycine soja oil~0.3–0.55%

Key activeComedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium
Comedogenicity: 2/5

Works for

Moisturizing

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

More about Glycine soja oil

Diethylhexyl syringylidenemalonate~0.3–0.55%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Used to stabilize the product formulation

More about Diethylhexyl syringylidenemalonate

Tocopherol~0.3–0.55%

Under-dosed

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-oxidationMoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryAnti-aging

Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself

More about Tocopherol

Tris(tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) citrate~0.25–0.5%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Tris(tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) citrate

Copper tripeptide-1~0.25–0.45%

Hero · Moisturizing

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-aging

A naturally occurring peptide. One of the most studied peptides in dermatology. It is sometimes abbreviated GHK-Cu. Belongs to the class of carrier peptides. It stimulates both synthesis and breakdown of collagen in skin. It is released in skin wounds and inflammation to support healing. It accelerates wound-healing of the skin and can stimulate hair growth. There are preliminary studies that confirm that copper tripeptide can help support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles and decrease inflammation in skin.

More about Copper tripeptide-1

Hydroxyethylcellulose~0.25–0.45%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Used to thicken product formulations and create gel-like textures

More about Hydroxyethylcellulose

Melia azadirachta flower extract~0.2–0.4%

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

Coccinia indica fruit extract~0.2–0.35%

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 leaf extract~0.15–0.3%

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

Aloe barbadensis flower extract~0.2–0.35%

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~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

Eggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effect

More about Solanum melongena fruit extract

Ocimum sanctum leaf extract~0.15–0.25%

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

Corallina officinalis extract~0.1–0.2%

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

Curcuma longa root extract~0.05–0.15%

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

Ingredient list view

Water, Niacinamide, Butylene glycol, Propanediol, Glycerin, Dipropylene glycol, Pentylene glycol, Glyceryl glucoside, 1,2-hexanediol, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Glycereth-26, C12-14 alketh-12, Polysorbate 20, Calcium chloride, Salicylic acid, Hydrolyzed collagen, Gellan gum, Honokiol, Panthenol, Ppg-13-decyltetradeceth-24, Hydrolyzed sclerotium gum, Chlorella vulgaris extract, Sodium citrate, Centella asiatica extract, Glucose, Gardenia florida fruit extract, Adenosine, Acacia senegal gum, Citric acid, Panax ginseng adventitious root extracellular vesicles, Dextrin, Lecithin, Cynanchum atratum extract, Silica, Centella asiatica callus extracellular vesicles, Ethylhexylglycerin, Macadamia ternifolia seed oil, Retinol, Hydrogenated lecithin, Althaea rosea flower extract, Brassica campestris sterols, Glycine, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 laurate, Phytosteryl/behenyl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate, Tocopheryl acetate, Aluminum/magnesium hydroxide stearate, Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Potassium cetyl phosphate, Glycine soja oil, Diethylhexyl syringylidenemalonate, Tocopherol, Tris(tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) citrate, Copper tripeptide-1, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Melia azadirachta flower extract, Coccinia indica fruit extract, Melia azadirachta leaf extract, Aloe barbadensis flower extract, Solanum melongena fruit extract, Ocimum sanctum leaf extract, Corallina officinalis extract, Curcuma longa root extract

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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
	numbuzinNo.3 Blue Bio-Retinol Pore Refining SerumYOUR PRODUCT	innisfreeGentle Retinol Salicylic Acne Serum	ISNTREEHyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum	SKIN&LABVitamin C Brightening Serum
Match	—	86%	75%	75%
Price	$21.80	$34.00+$12.20	$13.71−$8.09	$13.89−$7.91
Shared key ingredients	—	9 of 17	9 of 17	8 of 17
Key difference	—	Madecassic Acid	Madecassic Acid	3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Irritancy	High	Medium	Medium	Medium
Drying alcohol	—	—	—	—
	View product	Shop	Shop	Shop

More alternatives: Dr Dennis Gross DRx BioRejuvenation Serum Mizon Retinol Youth Serum 0.1%

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Product summary

"numbuzin - Buy Numbuzin No. 3 Blue Bio-Retinol Pore Refining Serum Australia - Korean Skincare Online" is effective for: Evens skin tone, Exfoliation, Anti-blemish, Anti-aging and Moisturizing

Ingredient callouts

A good concentration of Niacinamide (4.70% - 5.70%). Niacinamide is a well-studied multi-tasking active. 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 improve the skin tone, reducing pigmentation marks.
This product contains an effective form of Retinoids (vitamin A): retinol 0.30% - 0.50%. 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.
Peptides (copper tripeptide-1 0.25% - 0.45%). Peptides are a very big group of ingredients. They all consist of a different combination of aminoacids. Our skin produces Peptides naturally. Some of them work as natural antibiotics, promote wound-healing and production of collagen. The scientists are still studying how effective the topical application of Peptides is, but it is very likely that theynare helpful. Peptides might be able to support skin barrier restoration and even have an anti-aging benefit. At the very least, they certainly help attract water to the skin and support the hydration in this way.
Adenosine 0.30% - 0.55%. It is a compound that in involved in many biological processes inside the skin cells. According one high-quality clinical trial, topical Adenosine in low concentrations can somewhat help improve "deep wrinkles" - the wrinkles that appear with age in places where our faces are most dynamic (for example, on the forehead or in the corners of the eyes).
Humectants (glycine 0.30% - 0.55%, panthenol 0.40% - 0.60%, hydrolyzed collagen 0.55% - 0.80%, glyceryl glucoside 1.40% - 1.70% and glycerin 2.40% - 3.00%). These ingredients help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improve the skin hydration.