What's In My Jar
OleHenriksen Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum
OleHenriksen

OleHenriksen Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh
See all ingredients

Works for

Evens skin tone
Bakuchiol, Glycolic acid + 2 more
Works well
What the product description says
“-AHAs (Glycolic and Lactic Acids) and Hibiscus Flower Extract Gently retexturize to even skin tone and smooth texture.”
Source: Sephora

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

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: glycyrrhiza glabra root 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.

BakuchiolKey activeEffect: HighA plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritation~1.1–1.4%
Glycolic acidKey activeEffect: HighAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid~0.35–0.65%
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals~0.25–0.5%
Lactic acidUnder-dosedAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.3–0.55%
Exfoliation
Glycolic acid, Lactic acid
Works well
What the product description says
“-AHAs (Glycolic and Lactic Acids) and Hibiscus Flower Extract Gently retexturize to even skin tone and smooth texture.”
Source: Sephora

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: glycolic acid.

Glycolic acidKey activeEffect: HighAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid~0.35–0.65%
Lactic acidUnder-dosedAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.3–0.55%
Anti-aging
Bakuchiol, Glycolic acid + 1 more
Works well
What the product description says
“-Bakuchiol Derived from the Ayurvedic babchi plant; a natural retinol alternative that helps even skin tone, smooth texture, and target fine lines and wrinkles -Edelweiss Stem Cell Promotes firmness and improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Source: Sephora

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

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.

BakuchiolKey activeEffect: HighA plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritation~1.1–1.4%
Glycolic acidKey activeEffect: HighAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid~0.35–0.65%
Lactic acidUnder-dosedAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.3–0.55%
Anti-oxidation
Not advertised by the brand · Bakuchiol, Kappaphycus alvarezii extract + 3 more
Works well

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

BakuchiolKey activeEffect: HighA plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritation~1.1–1.4%
Kappaphycus alvarezii extractEffect: LowA red algae extract that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant properties~0.3–0.5%
Leontopodium alpinum callus culture extractEffect: LowA plant stem cell extract that might help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in skin~0.3–0.6%
Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can be irritating. It might contain a compound anthocyanin that could be helpful in neutralizing free radicals~0.3–0.5%
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals~0.25–0.5%
Moisturizing
Not advertised by the brand · Glycerin, Squalane + 7 more
Works

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, leontopodium alpinum callus culture extract.

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: dimethicone, squalane.

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~3.8–4.7%
SqualaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~3.1–3.8%
Cetearyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture~1.4–1.8%
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~0.75–1.1%
Hydrolyzed jojoba estersKey activeEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.5–0.75%
Kappaphycus alvarezii extractKey activeEffect: HighA red algae extract that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant properties~0.3–0.5%
Saccharum officinarum extractKey activeEffect: HighSugar extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.5%
Leontopodium alpinum callus culture extractKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumA plant stem cell extract that might help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in skin~0.3–0.6%
Lactic acidUnder-dosedAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)~0.3–0.55%
Anti-blemish
Not advertised by the brand · Bakuchiol, Glycolic acid
May help

This product might be able to help reduce blemishes and clogged pores because it contains bakuchiol.

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

BakuchiolKey activeEffect: HighA plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritation~1.1–1.4%
Glycolic acidKey activeEffect: MediumAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid~0.35–0.65%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
7 strong irritants: Parfum, Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract + 5 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 20 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
ParfumAn aromatic blend of unspecified and possibly irritating ingredientsHigh~0.4–0.65%est.
Glycolic acidAn alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acidHigh~0.35–0.65%est.
Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extractA plant extract that can be irritating. It might contain a compound anthocyanin that could be helpful in neutralizing free radicalsHigh~0.3–0.5%est.
Citrus limon fruit extractUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritating and cause photosensitivityHigh~0.3–0.5%est.
Chamomilla recutita flower extractPlant extract that can have healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a potential allergen and can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.5%est.
Santalum album extractUsed as a fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.6%est.
LimoneneA common frangrance that can easily irritate skin, especially if exposed to air, light or heatHigh~0.2–0.35%est.
LinaloolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.3%est.
CitralA fragrance with a lemon scent. A likely irritantHigh~0.1–0.25%est.
BakuchiolA plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritationMedium~1.1–1.4%est.
Polyglyceryl-10 laurateHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.6–0.85%est.
HydroxyacetophenoneUsed to increase effectiveness of preservativesMedium~0.45–0.7%est.
Ceteareth-20Helps oil and water mix together. Has some emollient propertiesMedium~0.5–0.75%est.
Lactic acidAn exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)Medium~0.3–0.55%est.
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extractA plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicalsMedium~0.25–0.5%est.
Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinateUsed to improve stability of the formulationMedium~0.25–0.5%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.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.25–0.45%est.
Citric acidCan work as an exfoliant but is typically used to adjust the product pHMedium~0.2–0.4%est.
Ci 14700A colorantMedium~0.05–0.1%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
Cetearyl alcoholA non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture2/5~1.4–1.8%est.
Ceteareth-20Helps oil and water mix together. Has some emollient properties2/5~0.5–0.75%est.
Alternatives
Cheaper, or higher on efficacy
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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
Propanediol~4.6–5.6%
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~3.8–4.7%
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
Squalane~3.1–3.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

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

More about Squalane
Glycereth-26~2.3–2.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps create a thicker product consistency

More about Glycereth-26
Glyceryl polyacrylate~1.9–2.4%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps to create a nice product texture and spread the product more easily on the skin

More about Glyceryl polyacrylate
Mica~1.7–2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Creates an illusion of smoother and more radiant skin tone. Adds shimmer to the skin by reflecting light

More about Mica
Cetearyl alcohol~1.4–1.8%
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
Bakuchiol~1.1–1.4%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-inflammatoryAnti-agingAnti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-blemish

A plant extract that is, though different in chemical structure, acts similar to retinoids. First studies show that it can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation. There is no conclusive evidence that bakuchiol is as effective as retinol however. The study that directly compared retinol with bakuchiol used bakuchiol applied twice daily compared to once per day for the retinol. According to this study, bakuchiol is less irritating than retinol. Bakuchiol is extracted from seeds of Babchi plant. Other parts of the plant contain coumarins that could cause allergic and irritant reactions. These compounds should be removed in the extraction process when bakuchiol is produced, but it is a good idea to be cautious and stay away from products that include the Babchi plant extracts other than purified bakuchiol to avoid irritation

More about Bakuchiol
Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6~0.95–1.15%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6
Dimethicone~0.75–1.1%
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
Polyglyceryl-10 laurate~0.6–0.85%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about Polyglyceryl-10 laurate
Aminomethyl propanol~0.55–0.8%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the pH in formulations

More about Aminomethyl propanol
Hydrolyzed jojoba esters~0.5–0.75%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrolyzed jojoba esters
Phenoxyethanol~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Hydroxyacetophenone~0.45–0.7%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used to increase effectiveness of preservatives

More about Hydroxyacetophenone
Parfum~0.4–0.65%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

An aromatic blend of unspecified and possibly irritating ingredients

More about Parfum
Ceteareth-20~0.5–0.75%
Comedogenic 2/5Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Comedogenicity
2/5
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together. Has some emollient properties

More about Ceteareth-20
Glycolic acid~0.35–0.65%
Key activeIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-agingExfoliationEvens skin toneAnti-blemish

An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin reveling a more even, smoother complexation. It is also able to stimulate collagen production with long-term use. Could help to reduce pore congestion. It can be irritating to the skin. Apply sunscreen daily if using products with glycolic acid

More about Glycolic acid
Lactic acid~0.3–0.55%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Evens skin toneMoisturizingExfoliationAnti-aging

An exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiome)

More about Lactic acid
Leontopodium alpinum callus culture extract~0.3–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidationAnti-inflammatory

A plant stem cell extract that might help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in skin

More about Leontopodium alpinum callus culture extract
Caesalpinia spinosa fruit extract~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Caesalpinia spinosa fruit extract
Cellulose gum~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to create thicker product consistency and stabilize emulsions

More about Cellulose gum
Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that can be irritating. It might contain a compound anthocyanin that could be helpful in neutralizing free radicals

More about Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract
Kappaphycus alvarezii extract~0.3–0.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-oxidation

A red algae extract that can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might have some antioxidant properties

More about Kappaphycus alvarezii extract
Silica~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to absorb oil and can temporarily mattify skin

More about Silica
Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneReduces rednessAnti-inflammatoryAntibacterial

A plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals

More about Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract
Citrus limon fruit extract~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance. Can be irritating and cause photosensitivity

More about Citrus limon fruit extract
Saccharum officinarum extract~0.3–0.5%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

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

More about Saccharum officinarum extract
Chamomilla recutita flower extract~0.3–0.5%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-inflammatory

Plant extract that can have healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a potential allergen and can be irritating

More about Chamomilla recutita flower extract
Santalum album extract~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Used as a fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Santalum album extract
Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Used to improve stability of the formulation

More about Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate
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
Xanthan gum~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.25–0.45%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
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
Limonene~0.2–0.35%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

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

More about Limonene
Linalool~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Linalool
Citral~0.1–0.25%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance with a lemon scent. A likely irritant

More about Citral
Titanium dioxide~0.25–0.45%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Sun protection

Works as a UV filter when used in high concentrations. It is photostable and is effective mostly against the UVB light, with some protection in the UVA range. In small concentrations, used for its ability to improve the color of cosmetic products. Is usually well tolerated by the skin

More about Titanium dioxide
Ci 77891~0.1–0.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Ci 77891
Violet 2
Not recognized
Ci 60730~0.05–0.1%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Ci 60730
Ci 14700~0.05–0.1%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A colorant

More about Ci 14700
Ingredient list view

Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Squalane, Glycereth-26, Glyceryl polyacrylate, Mica, Cetearyl alcohol, Bakuchiol, Polyacrylate crosspolymer-6, Dimethicone, Polyglyceryl-10 laurate, Aminomethyl propanol, Hydrolyzed jojoba esters, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Parfum, Ceteareth-20, Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Leontopodium alpinum callus culture extract, Caesalpinia spinosa fruit extract, Cellulose gum, Hibiscus sabdariffa flower extract, Kappaphycus alvarezii extract, Silica, Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, Citrus limon fruit extract, Saccharum officinarum extract, Chamomilla recutita flower extract, Santalum album extract, Trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate, Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate, Xanthan gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric acid, Limonene, Linalool, Citral, Titanium dioxide, Ci 77891, Unknown, Ci 60730, Ci 14700

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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
OleHenriksenGlow Cycle Retin-ALT Power SerumYOUR PRODUCTPeace OutDark Spots SerumDr Dennis GrossAdvanced Retinol + Ferulic Texture Renewal SerumAmbariPM Active 12 Serum
Match—91%89%89%
Price$70.00—$20.00−$50.00—
Shared key ingredients—5 of 105 of 105 of 10
Key difference—NiacinamideSalicylic AcidNiacinamide
Irritancy High Low Medium High
Drying alcohol————
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Product summary

"OleHenriksen - Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum" is effective for: Evens skin tone, Exfoliation and Anti-aging

This product could be helpful for: Moisturizing and Anti-blemish, but its actives are not the most effective or are not well-studied.

Ingredient callouts

  • This product contains acids (lactic acid 0.30% - 0.55% and glycolic acid 0.35% - 0.65%). Their concentration is low, and they will not have a strong exfoliating effect. Instead, they work to support the skin natural acid mantle and to attract water (as humectants). Lactic acid is particularly good in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin and improving the skin barrier.
  • This product contains Bakuchiol (1.10% - 1.40%). It is a plant extract that is has a similar effect to that of Retinoids but with less irritation. Bakuchiol can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone, reduce clogged pores and blemishes, and reduce inflammation.
  • Humectants (glycerin 3.80% - 4.70%). These ingredients help attract water to the upper layer of the skin and improve the skin hydration.

About the brand

According to Cruelty-Free Kitty "OleHenriksen" is cruelty free, but its parent company is not.

Price

The product retails for 24.00$ in the United States, for 37.00£ in the United Kingdom and for 81.00CA$ in Canada.

For a detailed price comparison: click here.

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 18 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Safety Assessment of Glycerin Ethoxylates as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
  3. 3
    Bakuchiol in the Management of Acne-affected Skinresearchgate.net
  4. 4
    Prospective, randomized, double‐blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageingonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  5. 5
    A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract and mannitol improves the efficacy of adapalene in patients with acne vulgaris: result from a controlled randomized trialncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. 6
    Dimethicone as a protective ingredient in topical medicationsjaad.org
OleHenriksen Glow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum
OleHenriksenGlow Cycle Retin-ALT Power Serum
Buy at Sephora$70.00Amazon

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Buy at Sephora$70.00Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.