Versus

La Mer The Lifting Contour Serum Versus La Mer The Regenerating Serum

Serum
Serum
American Brand United States
American Brand United States

Updated on June 28, 2024

Overview

What they are

These products are both reef safe serums. They have a total of 49 ingredients in common

Cool Features

They both contain exfoliants and peptides

Suited For

They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, sensitive skin, reducing pores, dark spots and better texture

Free From

They both do not contain any parabens or sulfates

What's Inside

They both contain harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances and oils

We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.

Ingredient Info

Click any item below to learn more and see relevant ingredients

About this product

About this product

At a glance

Click on any of the items below to learn more

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Key Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients Side-by-side

found in both products
The Lifting Contour Serum

Butylene Glycol

Humectant
1 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin Icon

Methyl Gluceth-20

Humectant

PEG-75

Humectant

Alcohol Denat.

Antimicrobial
Alcohol IconCan worsen Dry Skin IconMay worsen Oily Skin IconMay cause irritation IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane

Emollient

Algae Extract

Emollient
May worsen Oily Skin Icon

Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil

Emollient
1-3 / 0 Oil IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Medicago Sativa Seed Powder

Skin Conditioning

Helianthus Annuus Seedcake

Abrasive
Exfoliant IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal

Abrasive
Exfoliant Icon

Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil

Perfuming
Fragrance IconOil IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Sodium Gluconate

Skin Conditioning

Copper Gluconate

Skin Conditioning

Calcium Gluconate

Humectant

Magnesium Gluconate

Skin Conditioning

Zinc Gluconate

Skin Conditioning
Helps fight Acne Icon

Tocopheryl Succinate

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Niacin

Smoothing
Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconGood for Dark Spots Icon

Sesamum Indicum Seed Powder

Skin Conditioning

Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract

Skin Conditioning

Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract

Skin Conditioning

Lens Esculenta Fruit Extract

Skin Conditioning

Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract

Skin Conditioning

Citrus Medica Vulgaris Fruit Extract

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Yeast Extract

Skin Conditioning
Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Helichrysum Arenarium Extract

Antiseborrhoeic

Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract

Skin Conditioning

Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract

Antimicrobial
Antioxidant Icon

Humulus Lupulus Extract

Antimicrobial

Palmaria Palmata Extract

Skin Protecting

Citrus Reticulata Peel Extract

Skin Conditioning

Asparagopsis Armata Extract

Skin Protecting

Chlorella Vulgaris Extract

Skin Conditioning

Coriandrum Sativum Seed Oil

Emollient
Oil IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Glycerin

Humectant
0 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconHelps brighten skin Icon

Oleth-5

Emulsifying
3 / 0 Bad for Acne Prone Skin Icon

Citrus Grandis Peel Oil

Masking
Fragrance IconOil Icon

Laminaria Saccharina Extract

Skin Protecting

Punica Granatum Fruit Juice

Masking

Glycereth-26

Humectant
0 / 0

Saccharomyces Lysate Extract

Humectant

Crithmum Maritimum Extract

Skin Conditioning

Laminaria Digitata Extract

Skin Protecting

Bifida Ferment Lysate

Skin Conditioning
Helps hydrate Dry Skin Icon

PEG-8

Humectant

Squalane

Emollient
1 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin Icon

Linoleic Acid

Cleansing
Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconMay worsen Oily Skin IconBad for Acne Prone Skin IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Hydrogenated Lecithin

Emulsifying

Micrococcus Lysate

Skin Conditioning

Oleth-10 Phosphate

Sorbitol

Humectant
0 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin Icon

Caprylyl Glycol

Emollient

Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Tourmaline

Sucrose

Humectant

Caffeine

Skin Conditioning

Lecithin

Emollient

Coenzyme A

Skin Conditioning

Acetyl Glucosamine

Skin Conditioning

Linolenic Acid

Cleansing
Fragrance IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

Humectant
Peptide IconHelps with Anti-Aging Icon

Styrene/Vp Copolymer

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Antioxidant
Vitamin C IconAntioxidant IconHelps reduce Skin Redness IconGood for Skin Texture IconGood for Minimizing Pores IconHelps brighten skin Icon

Tetraacetylphytosphingosine

Skin Conditioning

Methyldihydrojasmonate

Masking

Choleth-24

Emulsifying
0 / 0

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate

Humectant
Helps reduce Skin Redness IconHelps reduce irritation IconGood for Dark Spots Icon

Ceteth-24

Cleansing

Sodium Hyaluronate

Humectant
0 / 0 Hyaluronic Acid Icon

Hexylene Glycol

Emulsifying
0-2 / 0-1

Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters

Skin Conditioning
Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Sodium Benzoate

Masking
Preservative Icon

Sodium Lactate

Buffering

Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil

Emollient
3 / 0 Oil IconBad for Acne Prone Skin IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Potassium Sorbate

Preservative
Preservative Icon

Lavandula Angustifolia Oil

Masking
Fragrance IconOil IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract

Antimicrobial

Octadecenedioic Acid

Emulsifying
Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Carbomer

Emulsion Stabilising
1 / 0

Sodium PCA

Humectant
0 / 0

Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Ergothioneine

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Sodium Hydroxide

Buffering

Xanthan Gum

Emulsifying

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride

Masking

Disodium EDTA

BHT

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Phenoxyethanol

Preservative
Preservative Icon

Linalyl Acetate

Masking
May cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Linalool

Perfuming
Fragrance IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Limonene

Perfuming
Fragrance IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

CI 14700

Cosmetic Colorant
2 / 1

CI 19140

Cosmetic Colorant

CI 17200

Cosmetic Colorant
1 / 2

Butylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, PEG-75, Alcohol Denat., Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Algae Extract, Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil, Medicago Sativa Seed Powder, Helianthus Annuus Seedcake, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Sodium Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Calcium Gluconate, Magnesium Gluconate, Zinc Gluconate, Tocopheryl Succinate, Niacin, Sesamum Indicum Seed Powder, Bupleurum Falcatum Root Extract, Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract, Lens Esculenta Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Citrus Medica Vulgaris Fruit Extract, Yeast Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Helichrysum Arenarium Extract, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract, Humulus Lupulus Extract, Palmaria Palmata Extract, Citrus Reticulata Peel Extract, Asparagopsis Armata Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Coriandrum Sativum Seed Oil, Glycerin, Oleth-5, Citrus Grandis Peel Oil, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Juice, Glycereth-26, Saccharomyces Lysate Extract, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Bifida Ferment Lysate, PEG-8, Squalane, Linoleic Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Micrococcus Lysate, Oleth-10 Phosphate, Sorbitol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride, Tourmaline, Sucrose, Caffeine, Lecithin, Coenzyme A, Acetyl Glucosamine, Linolenic Acid, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Styrene/Vp Copolymer, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tetraacetylphytosphingosine, Methyldihydrojasmonate, Choleth-24, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Ceteth-24, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hexylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Lactate, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Octadecenedioic Acid, Carbomer, Sodium PCA, Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid, Ergothioneine, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Disodium EDTA, BHT, Phenoxyethanol, Linalyl Acetate, Linalool, Limonene, CI 14700, CI 19140, CI 17200

The Regenerating Serum

Water

Skin Conditioning

Algae Extract

Emollient
May worsen Oily Skin Icon

Dimethicone

Emollient
1 / 0 Silicon Icon

Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene

Emollient
1 / 2

Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride

Emollient

Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer

Skin Conditioning

PEG-8 Dimethicone

Emulsifying
Silicon Icon

Triethylhexanoin

Masking

PEG-10 Dimethicone

Skin Conditioning
Silicon Icon

Polysilicone-11

Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil

Skin Conditioning
Oil IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Decyl Glucoside

Cleansing

Glyceryl Triacetyl Ricinoleate

Emollient
Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Glycerin

Humectant
0 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconHelps brighten skin Icon

Niacinamide

Smoothing
Niacinamide IconGood for Oily Skin IconHelps reduce Skin Redness IconHelps reduce irritation IconGood for Minimizing Pores IconHelps with Anti-Aging IconGood for Dark Spots IconGood for Scar Healing IconHelps fight Acne IconHelps brighten skin Icon

Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil

Emollient
1-3 / 0 Oil IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Medicago Sativa Seed Powder

Skin Conditioning

Helianthus Annuus Seedcake

Abrasive
Exfoliant IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal

Abrasive
Exfoliant Icon

Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil

Perfuming
Fragrance IconOil IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Sodium Gluconate

Skin Conditioning

Copper Gluconate

Skin Conditioning

Calcium Gluconate

Humectant

Magnesium Gluconate

Skin Conditioning

Zinc Gluconate

Skin Conditioning
Helps fight Acne Icon

Tocopheryl Succinate

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Niacin

Smoothing
Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconGood for Dark Spots Icon

Sesamum Indicum Seed Powder

Skin Conditioning

Citrus Aurantifolia Peel Extract

Cleansing
Fragrance Icon

Narcissus Tazetta Bulb Extract

Astringent
May cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Citrus Reticulata Peel Extract

Skin Conditioning

Humulus Lupulus Extract

Antimicrobial

Mimosa Tenuiflora Bark Extract

Skin Protecting

Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract

Antimicrobial

Melilotus Officinalis Extract

Astringent

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

Skin Conditioning

Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein

Skin Conditioning

Marrubium Vulgare Extract

Skin Conditioning

Eryngium Maritimum Extract

Tonic

Bifida Ferment Lysate

Skin Conditioning
Helps hydrate Dry Skin Icon

Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Adenosine Phosphate

Skin Conditioning

Acetyl Carnitine Hcl

Skin Conditioning

Creatine

Skin Conditioning

Cladosiphon Okamuranus Extract

Skin Conditioning

Punica Granatum Fruit Juice

Masking

Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Lactis Proteinum

Skin Conditioning

Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Linolenic Acid

Cleansing
Fragrance IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Caffeine

Skin Conditioning

Alcaligenes Polysaccharides

Emollient

Gelidiella Acerosa Extract

Skin Protecting

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate

Humectant
Helps reduce Skin Redness IconHelps reduce irritation IconGood for Dark Spots Icon

Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract

Antimicrobial
Antioxidant Icon

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

Humectant
Peptide IconHelps with Anti-Aging Icon

Glycine Soja Seed Extract

Skin Conditioning

Gold

Cosmetic Colorant

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein

Humectant

Hydrogenated Lecithin

Emulsifying

Phenyl Trimethicone

Skin Conditioning
Silicon Icon

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer

Emulsion Stabilising

Isododecane

Emollient

Hypnea Musciformis Extract

Skin Protecting

Tocopheryl Acetate

Antioxidant
0 / 0 Vitamin E IconAntioxidant Icon

Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract

Skin Conditioning

Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline

Skin Conditioning
Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Acetyl Glucosamine

Skin Conditioning

Linoleic Acid

Cleansing
Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconMay worsen Oily Skin IconBad for Acne Prone Skin IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Micrococcus Lysate

Skin Conditioning

Tourmaline

Glycosaminoglycans

Emollient

Soy Amino Acids

Skin Conditioning

Butylene Glycol

Humectant
1 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin Icon

Laminaria Digitata Extract

Skin Protecting

Yeast Extract

Skin Conditioning
Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Trisiloxane

Skin Conditioning
Silicon Icon

Tartaric Acid

Buffering
AHA IconGood for Oily Skin IconGood for Skin Texture IconGood for Minimizing Pores IconGood for Scar Healing IconHelps brighten skin IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Tetraacetylphytosphingosine

Skin Conditioning

Dextrin

Absorbent

Tocopherol

Antioxidant
0-3 / 0-3 Vitamin E IconAntioxidant IconHelps hydrate Dry Skin IconHelps with Anti-Aging IconGood for Scar Healing Icon

Pentylene Glycol

Skin Conditioning

Bis-Stearyl Dimethicone

Emollient
Silicon Icon

Laureth-12

Emulsifying

Potassium Sorbate

Preservative
Preservative Icon

Parfum

Masking
Fragrance IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Caprylyl Glycol

Emollient

Lecithin

Emollient

Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin

Masking

Maltodextrin

Absorbent

Cyclodextrin

Absorbent

Alcohol Denat.

Antimicrobial
Alcohol IconCan worsen Dry Skin IconMay worsen Oily Skin IconMay cause irritation IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Sodium Hydroxide

Buffering

Xanthan Gum

Emulsifying

Silica

Abrasive
Exfoliant IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Citric Acid

Buffering
AHA IconGood for Oily Skin IconGood for Skin Texture IconGood for Minimizing Pores IconGood for Scar Healing IconHelps brighten skin IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Glutathione

Good for Dark Spots Icon

Polymethylsilsesquioxane

Silicon Icon

Disodium EDTA

BHT

Antioxidant
Antioxidant Icon

Phenoxyethanol

Preservative
Preservative Icon

Limonene

Perfuming
Fragrance IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Linalool

Perfuming
Fragrance IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Hydroxycitronellal

Perfuming
Fragrance IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Citronellol

Perfuming
Fragrance IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Geraniol

Perfuming
Fragrance IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

CI 61570

Cosmetic Colorant

Water, Algae Extract, Dimethicone, Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, PEG-8 Dimethicone, Triethylhexanoin, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Polysilicone-11, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Decyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Triacetyl Ricinoleate, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil, Medicago Sativa Seed Powder, Helianthus Annuus Seedcake, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Sodium Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Calcium Gluconate, Magnesium Gluconate, Zinc Gluconate, Tocopheryl Succinate, Niacin, Sesamum Indicum Seed Powder, Citrus Aurantifolia Peel Extract, Narcissus Tazetta Bulb Extract, Citrus Reticulata Peel Extract, Humulus Lupulus Extract, Mimosa Tenuiflora Bark Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Melilotus Officinalis Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein, Marrubium Vulgare Extract, Eryngium Maritimum Extract, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Adenosine Phosphate, Acetyl Carnitine Hcl, Creatine, Cladosiphon Okamuranus Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Juice, Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid, Lactis Proteinum, Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride, Linolenic Acid, Caffeine, Alcaligenes Polysaccharides, Gelidiella Acerosa Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Glycine Soja Seed Extract, Gold, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Phenyl Trimethicone, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Isododecane, Hypnea Musciformis Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract, Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline, Acetyl Glucosamine, Linoleic Acid, Micrococcus Lysate, Tourmaline, Glycosaminoglycans, Soy Amino Acids, Butylene Glycol, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Yeast Extract, Trisiloxane, Tartaric Acid, Tetraacetylphytosphingosine, Dextrin, Tocopherol, Pentylene Glycol, Bis-Stearyl Dimethicone, Laureth-12, Potassium Sorbate, Parfum, Caprylyl Glycol, Lecithin, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Maltodextrin, Cyclodextrin, Alcohol Denat., Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Silica, Citric Acid, Glutathione, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Disodium EDTA, BHT, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Linalool, Hydroxycitronellal, Citronellol, Geraniol, CI 61570

Ingredients Explained

These ingredients are found in both products.

Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.

Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning

Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:

  • It is a solvent, meaning that it helps to dissolve other ingredients. This also enhances the absorption of the product into one's skin.
  • It is a humectant, which means that it helps attract moisture into the skin.
  • It helps improve product application.
  • It has mild preservative properties.

Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient that works well with other ingredients.

Antimicrobial, Astringent, Masking

Alcohol Denat. is an alcohol with a denaturant property. It is created by mixing ethanol with other additives.

This ingredient gets a bad rep because it is irritating and drying - mostly due to its astringent property. Astringents draw out natural oils in tissue, constricting pores and leaving your skin dried out.

However, alcohol denat. is not all that bad.

Due to its low molecular weight, alcohol denat. tends to evaporate quickly. One study on pig skin found half of applied alcohol evaporated in 10 seconds and less than 3% stayed on skin.

This also helps other ingredients become better absorbed upon application.

Studies are conflicted about whether this ingredient causes skin dehydration. One study from 2005 found adding emollients to propanol-based sanitizer decreased skin dryness and irritation. Another study found irritation only occurs if your skin is already damaged.

Small amounts of alcohol are generally tolerated by oily skin or people who live in humid environments.

The rule of thumb is if this alcohol is near the end of an ingredients list, it will probably not affect your skin much.

Also...

This ingredient has antimicrobial and solvent properties.

The antimicrobial property helps preserve products and increase their shelf life. As a solvent, it helps dissolve other ingredients.

Other types of astringent alcohols include:

Learn more about Alcohol Denat.
Emollient, Humectant, Masking

Algae Extract is a confusing name. This is because algae is an informal term for a group of 30,000 aquatic organisms that can photosynthesize.

The term 'algae extract' can refer to any one, or a blend of, the 30,000 types.

Algae is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells, such as pollution.

Algae can also help with soothing and hydrating skin.

Many different types of algae have different benefits.

Learn more about Algae Extract
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning

Sesame oil comes from sesame seeds. Sesame oil is rich in fatty acids and Vitamin E.

It has antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The phenolic compounds of this ingredient (including vitamin E) give it these properties.

Unrefined sesame oil has a comedogenic rating of 3, while refined sesame oil has a rating of 1. This ingredient may not be fungal-acne safe.

The fatty acids in sesame oil include linoleic acid (41%), oleic acid (39%), palmitic acid (8%), stearic acid (5%), and some small traces of others.

Learn more about Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil
Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Medicago Sativa Seed Powder yet.

Helianthus Annuus Seedcake is an exfoliant and isn't fungal acne safe.

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal comes from the Sweet Almond tree. This sweet almond seed meal is the residue from expressing almond oil.

As an abrasive, it can help exfoliate the top layer of skin.

Perfuming, Skin Conditioning

This oil is derived from the leaves of Eucalyptus Globulus, a type of Eucalyptus tree native to Australia.

Though this oil shows antibacterial and antioxidant activity, it is also a known skin-irritant due to its fragrance components.

Skin Conditioning

This is the synthetic salt of gluconic acid, a form of PHA and mild exfoliant.

It is mainly used to stabilize oil and butter formulations from going bad. Sodium gluconate is a humectant, pH regulator, and chelating agent.

Chelating agents help neutralize unwanted metals from affecting the formulation.

Sodium gluconate is water-soluble.

Learn more about Sodium Gluconate
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting

This ingredient is a copper salt known for its wound healing properties.

Our bodies use copper to help stabilize our skin's collagen and elastin. Its also an essential for superoxide dismutase, an enzyme with strong antioxidant properties.

Copper has wound healing properties due to its role in creating new blood vessels and tissue repair.

Learn more about Copper Gluconate
Humectant, Skin Conditioning

This ingredient is calcium salt of gluconic acid. It is a humectant, meaning it attracts water to your skin.

Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Magnesium Gluconate yet.

Skin Conditioning

Zinc gluconate has antibacterial and wound healing properties. It is particularly effective against fighting inflammatory acne.

This ingredient is the zinc salt of the PHA gluconic acid. PHAs are gentle cousins to AHAs.

Antioxidant

Tocopheryl Succinate is an antioxidant.

Smoothing

Niacin is the other form of B3, with the other being niacinamide. The two have similar skin benefits: reducing inflammation, strengthening the skin barrier, and fading dark spots.

Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Sesamum Indicum Seed Powder yet.

Skin Conditioning, Tonic

We don't have a description for Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract yet.

Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting

Yeast extract is a silky, clear liquid derived from yeast (usually Saccharomyces cerevisiae or Torula yeast).

This ingredient has plenty of skin benefits:

Bioferments of yeast and soy have been found to reduce hyperpigmentation at low levels.

Due to its fatty acid content, this ingredient may not be fungal-acne safe.

Learn more about Yeast Extract

Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract comes from the Japanese Knotweed plant native to Japan, Korea, and China.

This plant contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains high amounts of resveratrol, a potent antioxidant.

The root of the plant has been used in traditional folk medicine throughout Asia.

Learn more about Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Skin Protecting

Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract comes from the grape vine. Grape seeds are a byproduct of creating grape juice or wine.

The components of grape seeds have many skin benefits. Research has found it to be antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. It also contains many potent antioxidants such as Vitamin E , Vitamin C, proanthocyanidins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. Proanthocyanidin has been shown to help even out skin tone.

Antioxidants help fight free-radical molecules. Free-radical molecules are capable of damaging our cells and other genetic material. Antioxidants help stabilize free-radicals by donating extra electrons. Grape seed extract may help reduce the signs of aging.

The antimicrobial properties of grape seed may help treat acne. However, more research is needed to support this claim.

Grape seed has also been found to help absorb UV rays. Grape seed extract should not replace your sunscreen.

Learn more about Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract
Antimicrobial, Masking, Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Humulus Lupulus Extract yet.

Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Citrus Reticulata Peel Extract yet.

Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting

Glycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.

A study from 2016 found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.

As a humectant, it helps the skin stay hydrated by pulling moisture to your skin. The low molecular weight of glycerin allows it to pull moisture into the deeper layers of your skin.

Hydrated skin improves your skin barrier; Your skin barrier helps protect against irritants and bacteria.

Glycerin has also been found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Due to these properties, glycerin is often used in wound and burn treatments.

In cosmetics, glycerin is usually derived from plants such as soybean or palm. However, it can also be sourced from animals, such as tallow or animal fat.

This ingredient is organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.

Glycerin is the name for this ingredient in American English. British English uses Glycerol/Glycerine.

Learn more about Glycerin
Masking, Skin Conditioning

Punica Granatum Fruit Juice is also known as pomegranate juice.

Pomegranates are rich in fatty acids, including an unsaturated fatty acid by the name of Punicic acid. Other components of pomegranates include Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and bioactive lipids such as phytosterols, phospholipids, and triterpenes.

Skin Protecting

Laminaria Digitata Extract comes from the dark brown seaweed, Laminaria Digitata. It is a potent antioxidant, which also provides soothing and hydrating benefits.

Many studies show the antioxidant components of Laminaria Digitata to help with anti-inflammation.

This ingredient is rich in amino acids, proteins, sugars, and vitamins. Small amounts of minerals such as phosphorous, iron, potassium, and copper are also found the seaweed.

These components help hydrate and nourish your skin's natural barrier. Having a healthy skin barrier leads to more youthful looking skin and may help reduce the signs of aging.

Laminaria Digitata is found in the northern Atlantic Ocean.

What's the difference between algae and seaweed? Algae is a broad term that includes seaweed. Not all algae is seaweed.

Learn more about Laminaria Digitata Extract
Skin Conditioning

Bifida Ferment Lysate is derived from the fermentation of Bifida bacteria (often with dairy). It is a probiotic and helps to strengthen our skin's microbiome.

Having a healthy microbiome helps protect our skin against infection. It also helps our skin stay hydrated and healthy.

Studies also show this ingredient to be a promising soothing ingredient for sensitive skin.

Learn more about Bifida Ferment Lysate
Cleansing, Emollient, Skin Conditioning

Linoleic Acid is Vitamin F and a fatty acid. It is an emollient and helps thicken texture. Linoleic acid helps with hydrating skin and nourishing the skin's barrier. The top layer of skin, or epidermis, contains high amounts of linoleic acid naturally.

Your body uses linoleic acid to build ceramides and prostaglandins. Ceramides keep your skin's barrier plump and firm. Prosaglandins help control inflammation and healing.

This makes linoleic acid effectives for reducing inflammation, hydrating skin, and firming skin. A side effect may include extra protection against UV damage and free radicals. This is due to linoleic acid strengthening the skin barrier.

Low levels of linoleic acid is also associated with acne-prone skin. By keeping sebum soft, it prevents pores from clogging.

Linoleic acid can is in common foods such as nuts, sunflower oil, corn oil, and soybean oil.

This ingredient may not be Malassezia folliculitis, or fungal-acne safe.

Learn more about Linoleic Acid
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning

Hydrogenated Lecithin is created from the hydrogenation of lecithin (a group of phospholipids). Hydrogenation is a chemical reaction between hydrogen and another element.

This ingredient is an emollient and emulsifier. As an emollient, it helps soften skin by trapping moisture within. As an emulsifier, it prevents oil and water ingredients from separating.

Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Micrococcus Lysate yet.

Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning

Caprylyl Glycol is a humectant and emollient, meaning it attracts and preserves moisture.

It is a common ingredient in many products, especially those designed to hydrate skin. The primary benefits are retaining moisture, skin softening, and promoting a healthy skin barrier.

Though Caprylyl Glycol is an alcohol derived from fatty acids, it is not the kind that can dry out skin.

This ingredient is also used as a preservative to extend the life of products. It has slight antimicrobial properties.

Learn more about Caprylyl Glycol

EUK-134 is known for its ability to mimic SOD and catalase, two potent antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our cells from oxidative damage and premature aging.

According to a manufacturer and studies from Estee Lauder, EUK-134 protects the skin against UV induced DNA damage, reduces redness, and protects skin against toxic compounds.

Like SOD, EUK-134 specifically targets superoxide anions and pro-oxidant molecules. EUK-134 is able to transform ROS (reactive oxygen species) into water and oxygen while destroying hydrogen peroxide.

Our cells create ROS as a byproduct of every day cell activity. Studies show overproduction of ROS is linked to inflammation and aging.

Why is there hydrogen peroxide in our cells? Our bodies produce hydrogen peroxide as a natural defense against superoxide.

Superoxide is a reactive form of oxygen ion that damages our cells. It is toxic in high concentrations, hence why our bodies produce hydrogen peroxide to protect itself.

However, this hydrogen peroxide is a double-edged sword. While it protects us against superoxide, hydrogen peroxide is corrosive on skin. It is also linked to the aging process.

This is where EUK-134 comes in: it can neutralize superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, making it a great anti-aging ingredient.

Learn more about Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride

We don't have a description for Tourmaline yet.

Skin Conditioning

Caffeine is most associated with coffee, tea, and cacao. In skincare, it helps with calming inflammation and is rich in antioxidants.

While caffeine is used to treat cellulite and and dark circles, further studies are needed to prove this. It has been believed to help with these skin conditions due to its ability to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow.

Some studies are looking into caffeine's ability to protect against UV rays.

Learn more about Caffeine
Emollient, Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning

Lecithin is a term for a group of substances found in the cell membranes of plants, animals, and humans. They are made up of mixture of phospholipids.

This ingredient has emollient and emulsifying properties.

As an emollient, lecithen helps soften the skin and creates a barrier to keep moisture in.

As an emulsifier, it also helps prevent water and oil ingredients from separating. Lecithin can also help ingredients be better absorbed by the skin.

This is because the phospholipids in lecithin produce liposomes. Liposomes help other ingredients get through the skin barrier.

Depending on the source of this ingredient, lecithin may not be fungal acne safe. This is because some sources of lecithin come from soybean oil, which may feed the malassezia yeast that feeds fungal acne.

We recommend reaching out to the brand you are purchasing from to inquire about the source of their lecithin.

Learn more about Lecithin
Skin Conditioning

Acetyl Glucosamine is an antioxidant and humectant. It is an amino acid sugar and is naturally found in our skin.

The cool thing about this ingredient? It helps the skin produce hyaluronic acid and boost hydration. It also has antioxidant benefits to protect skin cells.

When paired with niacinamide, Acetyl Glucosamine has been shown to be effective at reducing discoloration.

Learn more about Acetyl Glucosamine
Cleansing, Emollient, Perfuming

Linolenic Acid is a fatty acid. Linolenic Acid helps condition and restore skin.

It is also used to treat inflammation and hyperpigmentation. It works to reduce hyperpigmentation by disrupting melanin production.

You can find this ingredient in many oils, include argan, rosehip, and hemp seed.

Read about Linoleic Acid

Learn more about Linolenic Acid
Humectant, Skin Conditioning

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 is a peptide. A common name for this peptide is Argireline.

Argireline has a similar function to botox; it prevents muscle movement and contractions slightly. By preventing muscles from moving, argireline also prohibits the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. However, research is lacking in proving this ingredient to be as effective as botox.

On the other hand, argireline tells our body to create more collagen. Collagen is a protein that makes connective tissue. Boosting collagen production leads to a healthier skin barrier. Having a healthy skin barrier means having firm and hydrated skin.

Read more about other common types of peptides here:

Learn more about Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Tetraacetylphytosphingosine yet.

Humectant, Skin Conditioning

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate comes from licorice root.

Extracts of licorice have demonstrated to have antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant properties.

One component, glabridin, has extra potent antioxidant and soothing properties. It has also been found to block pigmentation from UVB rays in guinea pigs.

Licorice Root also contains a flavonoid. Flavonoids are a natural substance from in plants. Flavonoids also have antioxidant properties.

Another component, glycyrrhizin, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. This may make licorice root extract effective at treating acne. However, more research is needed to support this.

Liquiritin is one of the flavone compounds found in licorice. It has been found to help lighten skin by preventing tyrosinase from reacting with tyrosine. When the two react, protein is converted to melanin. Melanin is the substance in your body that gives your features pigmentation.

Licorice root is native to Southern Europe and Asia. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to help with respiratory issues.

Learn more about Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Preservative

Potassium Sorbate is a preservative used to prevent yeast and mold in products. It is commonly found in both cosmetic and food products.

This ingredient comes from potassium salt derived from sorbic acid. Sorbic acid is a natural antibiotic and effective against fungus.

Both potassium sorbate and sorbic acid can be found in baked goods, cheeses, dried meats, dried fruit, ice cream, pickles, wine, yogurt, and more.

You'll often find this ingredient used with other preservatives.

Learn more about Potassium Sorbate
Antimicrobial, Masking, Skin Conditioning

Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract comes from rosemary. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean.

While Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil can be volatile due to its fragrant properties, the fragrance components are usually removed in the leaf extract.

Rosemary Leaf Extract can help protect your skin against damage from free-radical molecules. It contains many antioxidants such as rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid.

Rosemarinic acid has been found to help soothe skin conditions such as eczema and acne.

Learn more about Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract

Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid is an antioxidant.

Buffering

Sodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.

In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.

Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.

"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.

Learn more about Sodium Hydroxide
Emulsifying, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming

Xanthan gum is used as a stabilizer and thickener within cosmetic products. It helps give products a sticky, thick feeling - preventing them from being too runny.

On the technical side of things, xanthan gum is a polysaccharide - a combination consisting of multiple sugar molecules bonded together.

Xanthan gum is a pretty common and great ingredient. It is a natural, non-toxic, non-irritating ingredient that is also commonly used in food products.

Learn more about Xanthan Gum

Disodium EDTA plays a role in making products more stable by aiding other preservatives.

It is a chelating agent, meaning it neutralizes metal ions that may be found in a product.

Disodium EDTA is a salt of edetic acid and is found to be safe in cosmetic ingredients.

Learn more about Disodium EDTA
BHT
Antioxidant, Masking

BHT is a synthetic antioxidant and preservative.

As an antioxidant, it helps your body fight off free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells.

As a preservative, it is used to stabilize products and prevent them from degrading. Specifically, BHT prevents degradation from oxidation.

The concerns related to BHT come from oral studies; this ingredient is currently allowed for use by both the FDA and EU.

However, it was recently restricted for use in the UK as of April 2024.

Learn more about BHT
Preservative

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.

Perfuming

Linalool is a fragrance and helps add scent to products. It's derived from common plants such as cinnamon, mint, citrus, and lavender.

Like Limonene, this ingredient oxidizes when exposed to air. Oxidized linalool can cause allergies and skin sensitivity.

This ingredient has a scent that is floral, spicy tropical, and citrus-like.

Learn more about Linalool
Perfuming, Solvent

Limonene is a fragrance that adds scent and taste to a formulation.

It's found in the peel oil of citrus fruits and other plants such as lavender and eucalyptus. The scent of limonene is generally described as "sweet citrus".

Limonene acts as an antioxidant, meaning it helps neutralize free radicals.

When exposed to air, oxidized limonene may sensitize the skin. Because of this, limonene is often avoided by people with sensitive skin.

The term 'fragrance' is not regulated in many countries. In many cases, it is up to the brand to define this term. For instance, many brands choose to label themselves as "fragrance-free" because they are not using synthetic fragrances. However, their products may still contain ingredients such as essential oils that are considered a fragrance.

Learn more about Limonene

When to use

2 Routines
50% use in am
50% use in pm
100% use every day
10 Routines
40% use in am
60% use in pm
80% use every day