A formulation based on Glycerin and Dimethicone for hydration, but compromised by the presence of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Fragrance.
This formula contains solid foundational moisturizers like Glycerin (humectant) and Dimethicone (occlusive), along with fatty acids like Palmitic Acid and Stearic Acid which help repair the skin barrier. Allantoin is an excellent addition for soothing skin. However, the inclusion of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a significant drawback; SLS is a strong surfactant usually found in cleansers. In a leave-on moisturizer, it acts as an emulsifier but carries a high risk of drying out the skin or disrupting the moisture barrier over time, counteracting the benefits of the moisturizing ingredients.
The safety profile is compromised by several potential irritants. Fragrance is a leading cause of contact dermatitis. Triethanolamine can be sensitizing and has restrictions on concentration. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a known skin irritant, especially when left on the skin rather than rinsed off. Additionally, Laurocapram is a penetration enhancer, which may inadvertently increase the absorption of the fragrance and SLS, heightening the risk of irritation. Ethylparaben is a safe and effective preservative scientifically, though some users prefer to avoid parabens.
This appears to be a somewhat dated or economy formulation. While it covers the basics of hydration with Glycerin, Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate), and Dimethicone, the choice of emulsifiers and additives is poor by modern standards. The presence of SLS in a leave-on product is the primary negative factor, making this product unsuitable for sensitive or dry skin despite its moisturizing claims. It is functional for hardy skin types but outclassed by gentler formulations.
This facial moisturizer presents a complex and somewhat contradictory formulation that mixes beneficial skincare staples with ingredients typically considered red flags for leave-on products. At the very top of the list, the product appears promising. It utilizes a classic, effective base of Water, Glycerin, and Dimethicone. This triad is standard for a reason: glycerin acts as a humectant to draw water into the skin, while dimethicone provides a silky, occlusive seal that prevents that moisture from evaporating. The addition of Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) adds a layer of antioxidant protection, and Allantoin is a welcome inclusion known for its ability to soothe and calm irritated skin.
However, the safety profile of this moisturizer is significantly marred by the inclusion of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). SLS is a strong anionic surfactant primarily used in cleansers, shampoos, and detergents to strip away oils and dirt. While it is sometimes used in small amounts as an emulsifier in creams, it is widely regarded as a significant irritant when left on the skin rather than rinsed off. Its presence in a product meant to act as a moisturizer is counterintuitive, as SLS can disrupt the skin’s natural lipid barrier, potentially leading to increased dryness and sensitivity over time.
Furthermore, the formula relies heavily on fatty acids and fatty alcohols, such as Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, and Stearyl Alcohol. While these ingredients are excellent emollients that provide a rich texture and soften rough skin, they can be comedogenic for certain individuals, posing a risk of clogged pores for those prone to congestion. The inclusion of Laurocapram is interesting; it is a penetration enhancer designed to help other ingredients absorb more deeply. Unfortunately, in this context, it may simply facilitate the deeper penetration of potential irritants like the Fragrance or the SLS found in the mix.
Finally, the product uses Triethanolamine as a pH adjuster and Ethylparaben as a preservative. While generally deemed safe in regulated concentrations, these ingredients, combined with Fragrance, make the overall formula less suitable for reactive skin types. Due to the presence of a known stripping agent like SLS in a leave-on format, this product is difficult to recommend for maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
🧪 Water / 水
Purpose: Solvent
Concerns: None
Notes: The liquid base of the formulation.
🧪 Glycerin / 甘油
Purpose: Humectant
Concerns: None
Notes: Attracts moisture from the air into the skin.
🧪 Dimethicone / 聚二甲基硅氧烷
Purpose: Occlusive
Concerns: None
Notes: A silicone that provides a silky feel and prevents water loss.
🧪 Palmitic Acid / 棕榈酸
Purpose: Emollient
Concerns: Potential comedogenicity
Notes: A fatty acid that smoothens skin.
🧪 Stearic Acid / 硬脂酸
Purpose: Emollient / Thickener
Concerns: Potential comedogenicity
Notes: Helps stabilize the formulation and soften skin.
🧪 Cetyl Alcohol / 鲸蜡醇
Purpose: Emollient
Concerns: None
Notes: A fatty alcohol, non-drying and skin-softening.
🧪 Stearyl Alcohol / 硬脂醇
Purpose: Emollient
Concerns: Potential comedogenicity
Notes: A fatty alcohol that gives the product body and slip.
🧪 Tocopheryl Acetate / 生育酚乙酸酯
Purpose: Antioxidant
Concerns: None
Notes: A stable form of Vitamin E.
🧪 Allantoin / 尿囊素
Purpose: Soothing Agent
Concerns: None
Notes: Calms irritation and promotes healing.
🧪 Laurocapram / 氮酮
Purpose: Penetration Enhancer
Concerns: Potential irritation
Notes: Helps other ingredients absorb deeper into the skin.
🧪 Triethanolamine / 三乙醇胺
Purpose: pH Adjuster
Concerns: Potential allergen
Notes: Used to balance the acidity of the product.
🧪 Sorbitan Oleate / 山梨坦油酸酯
Purpose: Emulsifier
Concerns: None
Notes: Helps oil and water mix.
🧪 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate / 月桂醇硫酸酯钠
Purpose: Emulsifier / Surfactant
Concerns: High irritation potential
Notes: Can compromise the skin barrier; unusual in leave-on moisturizers.
🧪 Ethylparaben / 羟苯乙酯
Purpose: Preservative
Concerns: Paraben controversy
Notes: Prevents bacterial growth.
🧪 Fragrance / 香精
Purpose: Scent
Concerns: Common sensitizer
Notes: Can cause irritation in sensitive skin types.