The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Versus FaceTheory Supergel Oil-Free Moisturiser M3
Updated on March 07, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe . They have a total of 3 ingredients in common
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for dry skin, sensitive skin, scar healing and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones or sulfates
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
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
FaceTheory Supergel Oil-Free Moisturiser M3 17 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
FaceTheory Supergel Oil-Free Moisturiser M3 17 ingredients
Benefits
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningPropanediol
Solvent
Glycerin
Humectant
Niacinamide
Smoothing
Gellan Gum
Sodium Anisate
AntimicrobialSodium Levulinate
Skin ConditioningSodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Antioxidant
Salicylic Acid
Masking
Lactic Acid
Buffering
Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract
Masking
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
Sodium Phytate
Sodium Hyaluronate
Humectant
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial
Citric Acid
Buffering
Potassium Sorbate
Preservative
Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Gellan Gum, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Phytate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Water. 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. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterPropanediol is an all-star ingredient. It softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin.Â
It’s often used to:
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use. It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolCitric Acid is an AHA derived from citrus fruits (think oranges, lemons, and limes!).
As an AHA, Citric Acid removes the top layer of skin cells from the newer layer of skin underneath. This helps skin to remove dark spots and even out skin tone.
If you spot Citric Acid near the end of an ingredient list, it's likely there as a pH adjuster rather than an active ingredient.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
Learn more about Citric AcidIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
FaceTheory Supergel Oil-Free Moisturiser M3 17 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
FaceTheory Supergel Oil-Free Moisturiser M3 17 ingredients
Oily/Combination/CysticAcne/Malassezia
Pros: Hydrating and malassezia safe.
Cons: Goes on lightweight, but causes intense shine/oil for the rest of the day (even through makeup). Also, does not have any soothing benefits for redness, irritation, or flaking from acne.
Caused breakouts for my partner AND me!
