Sweet Chef

Sweet Chef Serum Mini Stocking Stuffer

Name: Sweet Chef - Serum Mini Stocking Stuffer
Brand: Sweet Chef

Efficacy91/100IrritancyHigh

See all ingredients

Works for

Anti-oxidation

Retinol, Zingiber officinale root extract + 9 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).

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~0.15–0.25%

Zingiber officinale root extractEffect: LowA plant extract that can contain an irritating essential oil. Might have some anti-oxidant effect, but evidence is lacking~1.3–1.6%

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

Corallina officinalis extractEffect: LowRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.15–0.3%

Hippophae rhamnoides fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin, but research on its effectiveness is lacking~0.15–0.3%

Melia azadirachta flower extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skin~0.15–0.3%

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~0.15–0.3%

Solanum melongena fruit extractEffect: LowEggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effect~0.15–0.25%

Coccinia indica fruit extractEffect: LowA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skin~0.15–0.3%

Beta vulgaris root extractEffect: Low, below effective doseA plant extract that might have some antioxidant properties, but mostly used in cosmetics for its color~0.15–0.3%

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~1.4–1.7%

Evens skin tone

Retinol, Ascorbic acid

Works well

What the product description says

“Give the Gift of Sweet Skin with this trio of Sweet Chef serums!,Ginger + Vitamin C Serum Shot brightens and evens skin tone for a radiant complexion,Beet + Vitamin A Serum Shot refines pores and smooths rough skin,Kale + Vitamin B Serum Shot hydrates and soothes dry skin,Cocktail your serums together for the perfect holiday glow,Free of parabens, synthetic dyes & fragrances, and mineral oil.”

Source: Target

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

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~0.15–0.25%

Moisturizing

Methyl gluceth-20, Chondrus crispus extract + 20 more

Works

What the product description says

“The Kale + Vitamin B Serum Shot calms and nourishes skin while sealing in moisture.”

Source: Target

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: anhydroxylitol, 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: chondrus crispus extract, glycine soja oil.

Methyl gluceth-20Key active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and soften it~2.9–3.5%

Chondrus crispus extractKey active· OcclusiveEffect: HighRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and create a nicer product consistency~0.2–0.4%

Hydrolyzed jojoba estersKey activeEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.2–0.35%

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~0.2–0.4%

Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin)Key active· EmollientEffect: MediumHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture~0.2–0.35%

Corallina officinalis extractKey activeEffect: HighRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants~0.15–0.3%

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.~0.15–0.3%

Sodium hyaluronateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.3%

TrehaloseKey active· HumectantEffect: HighA sugar that attracts water to the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.3%

TriethylhexanoinKey activeEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.25%

Saccharum officinarum extractKey activeEffect: HighSugar extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.1–0.25%

XylitylglucosideKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function~0.1–0.25%

AnhydroxylitolKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrir function~0.1–0.2%

CyanocobalaminKey activeEffect: HighCan support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation in skin~0.1–0.15%

GlucoseKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Could be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function~0.1–0.2%

Caprylyl glycol· Humectant, EmollientEffect: LowHelps preserve products and creates a nice product texture~0.2–0.35%

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~0.2–0.35%

Pentylene glycol· EmollientEffect: LowUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product texture~0.2–0.4%

Dextrin· HumectantEffect: LowA sugar that is used to stabilize the product formulation. Can help attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.1–0.2%

Brassica oleracea acephala leaf extractEffect: Low, below effective doseMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin but solid research is lacking. Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin~0.15–0.3%

Caprylic/capric triglycerideUnder-dosedA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~0.2–0.4%

PanthenolUnder-dosedHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function~0.15–0.3%

Anti-aging

Side benefit · Retinol, Ascorbic acid

Works well

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

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.

Exfoliation

Side benefit · Retinol

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.

Anti-blemish

Side benefit · Retinol, Melia azadirachta leaf extract

Works well

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

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%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy

5 strong irritants: Zingiber officinale root extract, Ocimum sanctum leaf extract + 3 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

Zingiber officinale root extractA plant extract that can contain an irritating essential oil. Might have some anti-oxidant effect, but evidence is lackingHigh~1.3–1.6%est.

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~1.4–1.7%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~0.75–1.1%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~0.55–0.8%est.

Melia azadirachta leaf extractA plant extract that has anti-bacterial properties. Can be used to preserve the product. Can be irritatingHigh~0.2–0.35%est.

Lavandula angustifolia oilAn essential oil. Potential allergen and can be irritating. It has some anti-bacterial propertiesHigh~0.15–0.3%est.

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

Sorbitan sesquioleateUsed to help oil and water mix together. Can be irritatingHigh~0.15–0.3%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~0.15–0.25%est.

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

Melia azadirachta flower extractA plant extract that might be helpful to neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.25–0.45%est.

Choleth-24Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.25–0.45%est.

EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.25–0.45%est.

Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.2–0.4%est.

Caprylic/capric triglycerideA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerinMedium~0.2–0.4%est.

Brassica oleracea acephala leaf extractMight be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin but solid research is lacking. Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Solanum melongena fruit extractEggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effectMedium~0.15–0.25%est.

Coccinia indica fruit extractA plant extract that might have some anti-oxidant effect helping neutralize free radicals in skinMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Polysorbate 60Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.2–0.35%est.

Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymerA gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finishMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Caprylyl glycolHelps preserve products and creates a nice product textureMedium~0.2–0.35%est.

Pentylene glycolUsed to preserve products, dissolve other ingredients and create a nice product textureMedium~0.2–0.4%est.

TriethylhexanoinHelps soften the upper layer of the skinMedium~0.15–0.25%est.

Beta vulgaris root extractA plant extract that might have some antioxidant properties, but mostly used in cosmetics for its colorMedium~0.15–0.3%est.

Hippophae rhamnoides fruit extractA plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin, but research on its effectiveness is lackingMedium~0.15–0.3%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~0.15–0.3%est.

MethylpropanediolHelps dissolve other ingredients in a formulationMedium~0.05%est.

Comedogenic

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

8 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 antioxidants3/5~1.1–1.4%est.

Chondrus crispus extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and create a nicer product consistency3/5~0.45–0.7%est.

Corallina officinalis extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and might contain antioxidants3/5~0.15–0.3%est.

Theobroma cacao seed extract—3/5~0.15–0.3%est.

Chondrus crispus extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and create a nicer product consistency3/5~0.2–0.35%est.

Chondrus crispus extractRed algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and create a nicer product consistency3/5~0.2–0.4%est.

Theobroma cacao seed extract—3/5~0.2–0.35%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.2/5~0.15–0.3%est.

Alternatives

Cheaper, or higher on efficacy

pureclinica Triple Strength Vitamin C, E & Ferulic Acid Serum

Higher efficacy · 100/10078% match

$29.99

5 in 1 Potent Face Serum with Retinol, Vitamin C, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid , Niacinamide | May Help Improve Appearance of Fine Lines and Reduce Appearance of Dark Spots

Dermedicine 5 in 1 Potent Face Serum with Retinol, Vitamin C, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid , Niacinamide | May Help Improve Appearance of Fine Lines and Reduce Appearance of Dark Spots

Higher efficacy · 100/10073% match

$23.99

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Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Zingiber officinale extract~44–54%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

More about Zingiber officinale extract

Serum

Not recognized

Water~11–14%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Glycerin~4.3–5.3%

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

Methyl gluceth-20~2.9–3.5%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and soften it

More about Methyl gluceth-20

1,2-hexanediol~1.1–1.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol

Propanediol~1.8–2.2%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

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

More about Propanediol

Zingiber officinale root extract~1.3–1.6%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that can contain an irritating essential oil. Might have some anti-oxidant effect, but evidence is lacking

More about Zingiber officinale root extract

Ascorbic acid~1.4–1.7%

Under-dosedIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Evens skin toneAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

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

Corallina officinalis extract~1.1–1.4%

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~0.75–1.1%

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

Ocimum sanctum leaf extract~0.55–0.8%

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

Chondrus crispus extract~0.45–0.7%

Key activeComedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

Works for

Moisturizing

Red algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and create a nicer product consistency

More about Chondrus crispus extract

Saccharum officinarum extract~0.25–0.5%

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

Melia azadirachta flower extract~0.25–0.45%

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

Choleth-24~0.25–0.45%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Choleth-24

Carbomer~0.25–0.45%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer

Tromethamine~0.25–0.45%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps adjust pH in products

More about Tromethamine

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

Disodium edta~0.2–0.4%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta

Melia azadirachta leaf extract~0.2–0.35%

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

Butylene glycol~0.2–0.35%

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

Cyanocobalamin~0.15–0.3%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Anti-inflammatoryMoisturizing

Can support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation in skin

More about Cyanocobalamin

Lavandula angustifolia oil~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

An essential oil. Potential allergen and can be irritating. It has some anti-bacterial properties

More about Lavandula angustifolia oil

Water~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Glycerin~0.2–0.35%

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

Butylene glycol~0.15–0.3%

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

1,2-hexanediol~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol

Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin)~0.2–0.35%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and create a nice product texture

More about Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin)

Caprylic/capric triglyceride~0.2–0.4%

Under-dosedIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin

More about Caprylic/capric triglyceride

Trehalose~0.15–0.3%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

A sugar that attracts water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Trehalose

Brassica oleracea acephala leaf extract~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals in skin but solid research is lacking. Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Brassica oleracea acephala leaf extract

Sodium hyaluronate~0.15–0.3%

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

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

Curcuma longa root extract~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Anti-inflammatory

More about Curcuma longa root extract

Solanum melongena fruit extract~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

Eggplant fruit extract. Might have some anti-oxidant effect

More about Solanum melongena fruit extract

Corallina officinalis extract~0.15–0.3%

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

Panthenol~0.15–0.3%

Under-dosed

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

Theobroma cacao seed extract~0.15–0.3%

Comedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

More about Theobroma cacao seed 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

Melia azadirachta flower extract~0.15–0.3%

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~0.15–0.3%

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

Chondrus crispus extract~0.2–0.35%

Key activeComedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

Works for

Moisturizing

Red algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and create a nicer product consistency

More about Chondrus crispus extract

Saccharum officinarum extract~0.15–0.25%

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

Polysorbate 60~0.2–0.35%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 60

Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A gelling agent that thickens the product consistency and leaves the skin with a velvety finish

More about Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer

Caprylyl glycol~0.2–0.35%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

More about Caprylyl glycol

Carbomer~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer

Sorbitan sesquioleate~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

Cleansing

Used to help oil and water mix together. Can be irritating

More about Sorbitan sesquioleate

Tromethamine~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps adjust pH in products

More about Tromethamine

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Xanthan gum~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum

Sorbitan isostearate~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Sorbitan isostearate

Ocimum sanctum leaf extract~0.15–0.3%

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

Disodium edta~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta

Dextrin~0.2–0.35%

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

Lavandula angustifolia oil~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

An essential oil. Potential allergen and can be irritating. It has some anti-bacterial properties

More about Lavandula angustifolia oil

Beet serum

Not recognized

Water~0.2–0.35%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Plain old water

More about Water

Butylene glycol~0.2–0.35%

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

Glycerin~0.2–0.4%

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

Glycereth-26~0.2–0.35%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps create a thicker product consistency

More about Glycereth-26

Propanediol~0.2–0.35%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

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

More about Propanediol

Methyl gluceth-10~0.2–0.35%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

More about Methyl gluceth-10

Pentylene glycol~0.2–0.4%

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

Triethylhexanoin~0.15–0.25%

Key activeIrritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Triethylhexanoin

Xylitol~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function

More about Xylitol

Beta vulgaris root extract~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might have some antioxidant properties, but mostly used in cosmetics for its color

More about Beta vulgaris root extract

Chondrus crispus extract~0.2–0.4%

Key activeComedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

Works for

Moisturizing

Red algae extract that helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and create a nicer product consistency

More about Chondrus crispus extract

Hydrolyzed jojoba esters~0.2–0.35%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

More about Hydrolyzed jojoba esters

Theobroma cacao seed extract~0.2–0.35%

Comedogenic 3/5

Irritation risk: Low
Comedogenicity: 3/5

More about Theobroma cacao seed extract

Hippophae rhamnoides fruit extract~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Anti-oxidation

A plant extract that might help neutralize free radicals in skin, but research on its effectiveness is lacking

More about Hippophae rhamnoides fruit extract

Glycine soja oil~0.15–0.3%

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

Retinol~0.15–0.25%

Hero · Anti-aging, Evens skin tone, Anti-blemishIrritant · high

Irritation risk: High

Works for

MattifyingAnti-agingAnti-oxidationExfoliationEvens skin toneAnti-blemish

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

Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

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

More about Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer

Choleth-24~0.15–0.3%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Works for

Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Choleth-24

Hydrogenated lecithin~0.15–0.3%

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

Saccharum officinarum extract~0.1–0.25%

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

Xylitylglucoside~0.1–0.25%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function

More about Xylitylglucoside

Carbomer~0.15–0.25%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer

Anhydroxylitol~0.1–0.2%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrir function

More about Anhydroxylitol

Tromethamine~0.15–0.25%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Helps adjust pH in products

More about Tromethamine

Xanthan gum~0.15–0.3%

Formula

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

Cleansing

Used to create a thicker product consistency

More about Xanthan gum

Ethylhexylglycerin~0.15–0.25%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin

Glucose~0.1–0.2%

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

Cyanocobalamin~0.1–0.15%

Key active

Irritation risk: Low

Works for

MoisturizingAnti-inflammatory

Can support skin barrier function and reduce inflammation in skin

More about Cyanocobalamin

Dextrin~0.1–0.2%

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

1,2-hexanediol~0.1–0.15%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

A preservative

More about 1,2-hexanediol

Methylpropanediol~0.05%

Irritant · medium

Irritation risk: Medium

Helps dissolve other ingredients in a formulation

More about Methylpropanediol

Lavandula angustifolia oil~0.01–0.05%

Irritant · high

Irritation risk: High

An essential oil. Potential allergen and can be irritating. It has some anti-bacterial properties

More about Lavandula angustifolia oil

Ingredient list view

Zingiber officinale extract, Unknown, Water, Glycerin, Methyl gluceth-20, 1,2-hexanediol, Propanediol, Zingiber officinale root extract, Ascorbic acid, Corallina officinalis extract, Curcuma longa root extract, Ocimum sanctum leaf extract, Chondrus crispus extract, Saccharum officinarum extract, Melia azadirachta flower extract, Choleth-24, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Xanthan gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium edta, Melia azadirachta leaf extract, Butylene glycol, Cyanocobalamin, Lavandula angustifolia oil, Water, Glycerin, Butylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, Hydrogenated poly(c6-14 olefin), Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Trehalose, Brassica oleracea acephala leaf extract, Sodium hyaluronate, Aloe barbadensis flower extract, Curcuma longa root extract, Solanum melongena fruit extract, Corallina officinalis extract, Panthenol, Theobroma cacao seed extract, Melia azadirachta leaf extract, Melia azadirachta flower extract, Coccinia indica fruit extract, Chondrus crispus extract, Saccharum officinarum extract, Polysorbate 60, Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer, Caprylyl glycol, Carbomer, Sorbitan sesquioleate, Tromethamine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan gum, Sorbitan isostearate, Ocimum sanctum leaf extract, Disodium edta, Dextrin, Lavandula angustifolia oil, Unknown, Water, Butylene glycol, Glycerin, Glycereth-26, Propanediol, Methyl gluceth-10, Pentylene glycol, Triethylhexanoin, Xylitol, Beta vulgaris root extract, Chondrus crispus extract, Hydrolyzed jojoba esters, Theobroma cacao seed extract, Hippophae rhamnoides fruit extract, Glycine soja oil, Retinol, Ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer, Choleth-24, Hydrogenated lecithin, Saccharum officinarum extract, Xylitylglucoside, Carbomer, Anhydroxylitol, Tromethamine, Xanthan gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glucose, Cyanocobalamin, Dextrin, 1,2-hexanediol, Methylpropanediol, Lavandula angustifolia oil

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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
	Sweet ChefSerum Mini Stocking StufferYOUR PRODUCT	pureclinicaTriple Strength Vitamin C, E & Ferulic Acid Serum	Dermedicine5 in 1 Potent Face Serum with Retinol, Vitamin C, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid , Niacinamide \| May Help Improve Appearance of Fine Lines and Reduce Appearance of Dark Spots	PixiVitamin-C Serum
Match	—	78%	73%	71%
Price	—	$29.99	$23.99	$22.97
Shared key ingredients	—	5 of 17	5 of 17	7 of 17
Key difference	—	Salicylic Acid	Ceramide Np	Ferulic Acid
Irritancy	High	Medium	Medium	High
Drying alcohol	—	—	—	—
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Sources cited in this review

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

1
Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
2
The influence of alkane chain length on the skin irritation potential of 1,2-alkanediolsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
3
Some phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe): A review of recent researchsciencedirect.com
4
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
5
Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Choleth-24journals.sagepub.com
6
Safety Assessment of Tromethamine as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
7
Melia azedarachmdedge.com
8
Preliminary and Pharmacological Profile of Melia azedarach L.: An Overviewjapsonline.com
9
Topical vitamin B12--a new therapeutic approach in atopic dermatitis-evaluation of efficacy and tolerability in a randomized placebo-controlled multicentre clinical trialpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
10
Superiority of a vitamin B12-containing emollient compared to a standard emollient in the maintenance treatment of mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasisncbi.nlm.nih.gov
11
Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin agingncbi.nlm.nih.gov
12
Hyaluronan (Hyaluronic Acid): a natural moisturizer for skin careresearchgate.net
13
In Vitro antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanol extract of eggplant (Solanum melongena) stalks in macrophage RAW 264.7 cellstandfonline.com
14
Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulationspdfs.semanticscholar.org
15
Safety Assessment of Panthenol, Pantothenic Acid, and Derivatives as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
16
Sorbitan sesquioleate, a common emulsifier in topical corticosteroids, is an important contact allergenncbi.nlm.nih.gov
17
Safety Assessment of Glycerin Ethoxylates as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
18
Amended Safety Assessment of Triglycerides as Used in Cosmeticscir-safety.org
19
Abundance of active ingredients in sea-buckthorn oilncbi.nlm.nih.gov
20
Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safetyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
21
Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol)ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
22
A comparative study of the effects of retinol and retinoic acid on histological, molecular, and clinical properties of human skinonlinelibrary.wiley.com
23
Topical Glucose Induces Claudin-1 and Filaggrin Expression in a Mouse Model of Atopic Dermatitis and in Keratinocyte Culture, Exerting Anti-inflammatory Effects by Repairing Skin Barrier Functionncbi.nlm.nih.gov

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