What's inside
What's inside
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningSalicylic Acid
MaskingAcacia Senegal Gum
MaskingTrehalose
HumectantPentylene Glycol
Skin ConditioningPPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24
EmulsifyingButylene Glycol
Humectant1,2-Hexanediol
Skin ConditioningHydroxyethylcellulose
Emulsion StabilisingBenzotriazolyl Dodecyl P-Cresol
UV AbsorberDisodium EDTA
Tromethamine
BufferingHydrolyzed Algin
Ethylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningSodium Citrate
BufferingPhragmites Karka Extract
Skin ConditioningPoria Cocos Extract
Skin ConditioningCitric Acid
BufferingSodium Benzoate
MaskingPhenoxyethanol
PreservativeZinc Sulfate
AntimicrobialCI 19140
Cosmetic ColorantCI 17200
Cosmetic ColorantTocopherol
AntioxidantWater, Salicylic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum, Trehalose, Pentylene Glycol, PPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl P-Cresol, Disodium EDTA, Tromethamine, Hydrolyzed Algin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Citrate, Phragmites Karka Extract, Poria Cocos Extract, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Zinc Sulfate, CI 19140, CI 17200, Tocopherol
Reviews
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is a well-known ingredient for treating skin that struggles with acne and clogged pores. It exfoliates both the skin's surface and deep within the pores to help clear out buildup, control oil, and reduce inflammation.
Unlike AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to penetrate into pores which makes it especially effective for treating blackheads and preventing future breakouts.
Salicylic acid is also known for its soothing properties. It has a similar structure to aspirin and can calm inflamed or irritated skin, making it a good option for acne-prone skin that is also sensitive.
Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.
It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing this ingredient into your routine.
While salicylic acid does not increase sun sensitivity, itβs still important to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.
Learn more about Salicylic AcidWater. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Remember to stay hydrated!
Learn more about Water