medicube
Toner Pads Zero Pore Pad 2.0
Exfoliates and Refines Pores — Perfect for those concerned about enlarged pores, seeking smoother skin, battling greasy skin from excess sebum.
Ingredient Snapshot
34 beneficial ingredients detected with no known safety concerns.
14 ingredients to watch — Lactic Acid / Milk AHA, Denatured Alcohol, BHA / Salicylic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Slix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract, Limonene may cause sensitivity in some skin types.
Ingredients (49)
Water
Benefits
- ✓Universal solvent base that allows all other ingredients to work together
- ✓Delivers water-soluble actives to the skin surface
- ✓Provides immediate surface hydration
Sources
Aqua (Water) — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel concludes that water (aqua) is safe as used in cosmetic formulations.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Aqua (Water): Water is the most commonly used cosmetic ingredient and is listed as safe by the CTPA with no restrictions on use.
Methylpropanediol
Benefits
- ✓Draws moisture from the environment into the skin (humectant)
- ✓Enhances penetration of key actives such as salicylic acid and niacinamide
- ✓Provides mild antimicrobial preservative support, reducing the need for additional preservatives
Potential concerns
- !At high concentrations, may cause mild stinging on broken or very sensitive skin
Sources
Methylpropanediol — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel reviewed methylpropanediol and found it safe for use in cosmetic formulations at current concentrations.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Methylpropanediol: CTPA classifies methylpropanediol as a skin-conditioning humectant and solvent with a good safety profile, suitable for a wide range of cosmetic formulations.
Trometamin
Benefits
- ✓Adjusts and stabilises formula pH to the skin's natural range (4.5–6.5), which helps prevent irritation
- ✓Keeps formula stable against breakdown over time
Potential concerns
- !At high concentrations, may cause skin irritation; concentrations in cosmetics are well-controlled
Sources
Tromethamine — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel determined that tromethamine (trometamine) is safe as used in cosmetic products as a pH adjuster and buffering agent.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Tromethamine: CTPA lists tromethamine as a safe pH adjuster and buffering agent with an established safety record in cosmetic formulations.
Lactic Acid(Lactic Acid / Milk AHA)
Benefits
- ✓Gentle chemical exfoliation suitable for sensitive skin
- ✓Improves skin hydration and moisture retention
- ✓Brightens uneven skin tone
- ✓Larger molecule than glycolic acid — lower penetration, less irritating
Potential concerns
- !May cause irritation at higher concentrations
- !Increases skin photosensitivity — use with SPF
Alcohol Denat.(Denatured Alcohol)
Benefits
- ✓Acts as a solvent and penetration enhancer for active ingredients
- ✓Gives a quick-drying, lightweight finish
- ✓Antimicrobial properties
Potential concerns
- !Disrupts the skin's lipid barrier, causing dryness and irritation with regular use
- !Not recommended for dry, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin
- !Can reduce the skin's natural microbial defence
1
2-Hexanediol
Benefits
- ✓Boosts the effectiveness of preservatives, helping products stay safe from microbial contamination
- ✓Mild humectant that helps skin retain moisture
Potential concerns
- !At concentrations above 3%, may cause mild irritation on sensitive or damaged skin
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — 1,2-Hexanediol: CTPA classifies 1,2-hexanediol as a safe skin-conditioning agent and preservative enhancer, widely used in cosmetic formulations at concentrations up to 3%.
Panthenol(Pro-Vitamin B5)
Benefits
- ✓Deep moisturiser that attracts and binds water in the skin
- ✓Accelerates wound healing and supports tissue repair
- ✓Soothes inflammation and reduces itching
- ✓Strengthens the skin barrier
Glycereth-26
Benefits
- ✓Emollient that softens and smooths skin texture on contact
- ✓Humectant that helps the skin hold onto moisture
- ✓Improves how easily a formula spreads on the skin
Sources
Glycereth-26 — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that glycereth-26 is safe as used in cosmetic formulations based on available safety data.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Glycereth-26: CTPA lists glycereth-26 as a safe skin-conditioning agent and emollient with a well-established safety profile in leave-on and rinse-off formulations.
Salicylic Acid(BHA / Salicylic Acid)
Benefits
- ✓Oil-soluble acid that penetrates and unclogs pores
- ✓Effective treatment for acne, blackheads, and whiteheads
- ✓Anti-inflammatory — reduces redness around blemishes
- ✓Exfoliates inside the pore lining
Potential concerns
- !Can cause dryness, peeling, and irritation with overuse
- !Not recommended during pregnancy at high concentrations
- !May increase photosensitivity
Sources
FDA OTC Monograph — Salicylic Acid Acne Products: Salicylic acid is approved as an OTC active ingredient for acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentrations. It functions as a keratolytic agent, promoting shedding of the outer skin layer and unclogging pores.
Korean MFDS Salicylic Acid Use Standards in Cosmetics: Korean MFDS restricts salicylic acid to a maximum of 0.5% in rinse-off cosmetics and 2% in leave-on products for acne. Products must include a warning to avoid use during pregnancy and to use sun protection.
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP
Benefits
- ✓Creates smooth, lightweight gel textures without a heavy or greasy feel
- ✓Stabilises emulsions so the formula stays uniform throughout its shelf life
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer: CTPA lists this polymer as a safe film-forming thickening agent. It is not absorbed into the skin and poses no systemic risk.
Copolymer
Benefits
- ✓Film-forming agent that helps stabilise formula texture
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Polymers and Film-Formers: Synthetic copolymers used as thickeners and stabilisers in cosmetics are considered safe by CTPA; they remain on the skin surface and are not absorbed.
Betaine
Benefits
- ✓Naturally derived from sugar beet; attracts and locks in moisture (humectant)
- ✓Soothes skin and helps reduce redness caused by other active ingredients
- ✓Supports the skin's natural osmotic balance, making cells more resilient
Sources
Betaine — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel found betaine safe as used in cosmetics; it is well tolerated across all skin types with no significant adverse effects reported.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Betaine: CTPA recognises betaine as a well-established skin-conditioning agent and humectant with a strong safety profile, suitable for sensitive skin formulations.
Trehalose
Benefits
- ✓Powerful humectant that shields skin cells from dehydration — even under stress
- ✓Forms a thin protective layer on the skin surface to slow moisture loss
- ✓Antioxidant properties help protect against environmental damage
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Trehalose: CTPA classifies trehalose as a safe skin-conditioning and humectant ingredient with excellent tolerability, including for sensitive and compromised skin.
Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate
Benefits
- ✓Gentle plant-derived emulsifier that helps blend oil and water ingredients smoothly
- ✓Skin-conditioning with a low irritation profile — suitable for sensitive skin
- ✓Biodegradable; considered an environmentally responsible ingredient
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate: CTPA lists polyglyceryl esters including polyglyceryl-10 laurate as safe, biodegradable emulsifiers with a low sensitisation potential, widely used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Benefits
- ✓Preservative booster that enhances the efficacy of other preservatives
- ✓Skin-conditioning agent with moisturising properties
Potential concerns
- !Rarely causes skin irritation in hypersensitive individuals
Glycerin(Glycerol / Glycerin)
Benefits
- ✓Powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin
- ✓Improves and maintains skin barrier function
- ✓Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types
- ✓Accelerates wound healing
Sources
FDA GRAS Database — Glycerin: Glycerin (glycerol) is affirmed as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. As a cosmetic ingredient, it is one of the most widely used and well-tolerated humectants, drawing moisture from the environment to the outer layers of the skin.
Allantoin
Benefits
- ✓Soothes and calms irritated or inflamed skin
- ✓Promotes cell regeneration and skin healing
- ✓Provides moisturising and softening effects
- ✓Excellent tolerance — commonly used in sensitive-skin formulations
Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate
Benefits
- ✓Plant-derived emulsifier that creates stable, lightweight textures
- ✓Skin-softening and conditioning on contact
- ✓Biodegradable and considered environmentally friendly
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate: CTPA recognises polyglyceryl-10 myristate as a safe skin-conditioning emulsifier with very low irritation and sensitisation potential.
Disodium EDTA
Benefits
- ✓Chelating agent that binds to heavy metal ions in the formula, preventing them from destabilising the product
- ✓Improves the effectiveness of preservatives, helping the product stay safe for longer
Potential concerns
- !May cause mild skin irritation at higher concentrations; levels used in cosmetics are well below concern thresholds
Sources
Disodium EDTA — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that disodium EDTA is safe as used in cosmetic formulations. The concentrations typically used (0.01–0.1%) are well within safe limits.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Disodium EDTA: CTPA lists disodium EDTA as a safe chelating agent with a well-established safety record in cosmetics; it enhances preservative systems and formula stability.
Butylene Glycol
Benefits
- ✓Humectant that draws moisture into the skin and helps prevent water loss throughout the day
- ✓Helps active ingredients dissolve and penetrate the skin more effectively
- ✓Improves the feel and spreadability of a formula on skin
Potential concerns
- !Generally well tolerated; at very high concentrations may cause mild irritation
Sources
Butylene Glycol — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel concluded that butylene glycol is safe as used in cosmetic formulations; it is a well-tolerated humectant and solvent.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Butylene Glycol: CTPA classifies butylene glycol as a safe skin-conditioning humectant and solvent with a strong tolerability record across skin types including sensitive skin.
Sodium Hyaluronate(Hyaluronic Acid Salt)
Benefits
- ✓Low-molecular-weight hyaluronate penetrates deeper into the dermis
- ✓Holds up to 1000× its weight in water for intense hydration
- ✓Plumps skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines
- ✓Suitable for all skin types including oily and acne-prone
Sources
FDA Briefing on Hyaluronic Acid in Topical Formulations: Sodium hyaluronate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) as a cosmetic ingredient. It functions as an effective humectant and skin-conditioning agent suitable for all skin types.
Betaine Salicylate
Benefits
- ✓BHA-type compound that exfoliates inside pores to reduce blackheads and minimise their appearance
- ✓Gentler than synthetic salicylic acid — delivers pore-clearing exfoliation with less irritation
- ✓Anti-inflammatory properties help calm breakout-prone skin alongside its exfoliating action
Potential concerns
- !May cause dryness or peeling with frequent use — begin with less frequent application
- !Korean MFDS limits concentration in cosmetic products; not recommended during pregnancy at higher concentrations
Sources
Korean MFDS — Functional Cosmetic Ingredient Guidelines: Betaine Salicylate: The Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) regulates betaine salicylate as a functional cosmetic ingredient with recognised pore-minimising and exfoliating activity, subject to concentration limits.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Betaine Salicylate: CTPA recognises betaine salicylate as an exfoliating skin-conditioning agent; safety profile supports use in rinse-off and leave-on products within regulated concentration limits.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Benefits
- ✓Contains d-limonene and antioxidants that help protect skin from free radical damage
- ✓Naturally brightening properties may help even skin tone with regular use
- ✓Uplifting citrus fragrance
Potential concerns
- !Contains naturally occurring sensitisers (limonene, linalool) — may trigger reactions in those with fragrance sensitivity
- !Can increase photosensitivity — use SPF if applying in the daytime
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil: CTPA flags citrus peel oils as potential sensitisers due to their limonene and linalool content, both of which are regulated fragrance allergens under EU Cosmetics Regulation. Patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil
Benefits
- ✓Rich in antioxidants that may support skin brightness
- ✓Astringent properties help control excess oil on the skin surface
Potential concerns
- !Contains bergapten (a furanocoumarin) which is phototoxic — can cause dark spots or burns when skin is exposed to sunlight
- !Frequent allergen in fragrance-sensitive individuals; EU regulations require label disclosure
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil: CTPA classifies lemon peel oil as a potential phototoxic and sensitising ingredient. It is recommended for use only in rinse-off products or in conjunction with adequate sun protection in leave-on formulations.
Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil
Benefits
- ✓Rich in naringenin — an antioxidant that helps protect skin from oxidative damage
- ✓Mild astringent effect may temporarily tighten the appearance of pores
Potential concerns
- !Phototoxic furanocoumarins may cause skin darkening or burns with UV exposure after application
- !Potential allergen for fragrance-sensitive individuals
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil: CTPA advises caution for grapefruit peel oil in leave-on products due to phototoxicity risk. It is considered safe in rinse-off formulations at typical use concentrations.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
Benefits
- ✓Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties
- ✓Anti-inflammatory activity has been documented in independent research
- ✓Calming, mood-lifting fragrance
Potential concerns
- !Contains bergapten — a known phototoxin that can cause severe hyperpigmentation or burns if skin is exposed to sunlight after application
- !EU Cosmetics Regulation requires bergapten-free (FCF) versions in leave-on products; Korean MFDS restricts phototoxic fragrance ingredients
- !Common fragrance allergen requiring mandatory disclosure in the EU
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil: CTPA recommends bergapten-free (FCF) bergamot oil for leave-on cosmetic formulations. Non-FCF bergamot oil is considered unsafe in leave-on products due to phototoxicity risk.
Korean MFDS — Phototoxic Fragrance Ingredient Guidelines: The Korean MFDS restricts phototoxic fragrance ingredients including bergamot oil containing bergapten in leave-on cosmetic formulations under Korean functional cosmetics regulations.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
Benefits
- ✓Strong antioxidant from rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid — helps protect skin from environmental damage
- ✓Antimicrobial activity supports formula preservation and skin clarity
- ✓Mild astringent effect
Potential concerns
- !Contains camphor and 1,8-cineole which can irritate sensitive skin and mucous membranes
- !Potential allergen; EU Cosmetics Regulation requires disclosure above threshold concentrations in leave-on products
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil: CTPA lists rosemary leaf oil as a fragrance and antioxidant ingredient. It is considered safe at typical use concentrations but is flagged as a potential sensitiser; patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil
Benefits
- ✓Antimicrobial activity helps keep skin clear of bacteria
- ✓Cooling, refreshing sensation from 1,8-cineole content
- ✓Supports a clarifying effect on congested skin
Potential concerns
- !High 1,8-cineole content can cause irritation and sensitisation, especially on sensitive skin
- !Not safe for use near the face of young children
- !EU-regulated fragrance allergen requiring disclosure above threshold concentrations
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil: CTPA flags eucalyptus oil as a potential irritant and sensitiser at higher concentrations. It is considered safe at low concentrations in adult cosmetic formulations but should be avoided in products intended for use around the faces of young children.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Benefits
- ✓Clinically studied anti-inflammatory properties help calm and soothe reactive skin
- ✓Antimicrobial activity supports skin health
- ✓Widely studied calming fragrance with documented relaxation effects
Potential concerns
- !Contains linalool and linalyl acetate — both EU-regulated fragrance allergens that require label disclosure above threshold concentrations
- !May cause contact sensitisation or allergic reaction in predisposed individuals
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil: CTPA notes that linalool and linalyl acetate present in lavender oil must be declared per EU Cosmetics Regulation when present above threshold concentrations. Lavender oil is considered safe at typical use levels in cosmetics.
FDA Fragrance Allergen Disclosure — Linalool: The FDA has noted linalool as a fragrance allergen under consideration for mandatory disclosure in US cosmetics, reflecting its potential to cause skin sensitisation in susceptible individuals.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract
Benefits
- ✓Rich in resveratrol, proanthocyanidins, and polyphenols — among the most potent antioxidants used in skincare
- ✓Antioxidants defend skin against free radical damage from UV and pollution
- ✓Anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritated and redness-prone skin
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract: CTPA lists grape fruit extract as a well-tolerated botanical skin-conditioning and antioxidant ingredient with no significant safety concerns identified at cosmetic use concentrations.
Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract
Benefits
- ✓Vitamin C-rich extract that supports skin brightness and antioxidant protection
- ✓Mild alpha-hydroxy acid activity may gently smooth skin texture over time
Potential concerns
- !High-concentration use in leave-on products may increase photosensitivity
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract: CTPA classifies lime fruit extract as safe as used in cosmetics; the same photosensitivity precautions that apply to other citrus extracts apply at higher concentrations in leave-on formulations.
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract
Benefits
- ✓Natural source of citric acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates and brightens skin
- ✓Vitamin C content provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage
- ✓Helps even skin tone with regular use
Potential concerns
- !AHA activity may cause mild sensitivity or irritation on dry or compromised skin
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract: CTPA lists lemon fruit extract as safe for cosmetic use; unlike lemon peel oil, it does not carry the same phototoxicity risk, though photosensitivity precautions remain relevant at higher concentrations.
Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract
Benefits
- ✓Contains malic acid (a gentle AHA) that helps soften and smooth skin texture
- ✓Antioxidant polyphenols protect skin against environmental stress
- ✓Skin-conditioning properties improve hydration and smoothness
Potential concerns
- !Mild AHA activity may cause sensitivity on very dry or compromised skin
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract: CTPA classifies apple fruit extract as a safe skin-conditioning botanical; its gentle AHA content is well tolerated at cosmetic use concentrations.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract
Benefits
- ✓Rich in Vitamin C precursors and flavonoids that brighten and even skin tone
- ✓Antioxidant protection against UV-induced and pollution-related skin damage
- ✓Gentle astringent effect that helps manage excess oil
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract: CTPA lists orange fruit extract as a safe skin-conditioning and antioxidant ingredient; unlike the peel oil, the fruit extract does not carry phototoxicity or significant sensitisation risk at cosmetic use concentrations.
Ethyl Hexanediol
Benefits
- ✓Preservative booster that prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf life
- ✓Mild humectant that helps the skin retain moisture
Potential concerns
- !CIR has noted mild irritation potential at higher concentrations; well within safe limits at typical cosmetic use levels
Sources
Ethylhexanediol — CIR Expert Panel Safety Assessment: The CIR Expert Panel found ethylhexanediol safe as used in cosmetic formulations as a humectant and preservative booster at concentrations typically employed in cosmetics.
Centella Asiatica Extract(Centella Asiatica)
Benefits
- ✓Calms and soothes irritated skin
- ✓Supports collagen synthesis and wound healing
- ✓Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Sources
Korean MFDS — Functional Cosmetic Ingredients: Centella Asiatica: Centella asiatica extract is recognized by the Korean MFDS as a beneficial cosmetic active ingredient. Its active constituents (asiaticoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) support collagen biosynthesis and skin wound healing.
Slix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
Benefits
- ✓Natural source of salicin, which converts to a salicylic acid-like compound on skin — gently unclogs pores and smooths texture
- ✓Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and calm reactive skin
- ✓Antioxidant polyphenols protect against environmental damage
Potential concerns
- !Those with aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) sensitivity should use with caution, as salicin is chemically related
- !Gentler but also less potent than synthetic salicylic acid; effects develop more gradually
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract: CTPA lists willow bark extract as a safe skin-conditioning and exfoliating botanical at cosmetic use concentrations. It is considered a natural BHA precursor with a gentler profile than synthetic salicylic acid.
Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract
Benefits
- ✓Potent natural antimicrobial activity, including against acne-causing skin bacteria
- ✓Rich in carvacrol and thymol — strong antioxidants that protect skin from free radical damage
- ✓Anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation
Potential concerns
- !At high concentrations, can cause skin irritation; used at low levels in cosmetics where it is well tolerated
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract: CTPA classifies origanum vulgare leaf extract as safe as used in cosmetic formulations; its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties are well documented at cosmetic concentrations.
Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract
Benefits
- ✓Contains hinokitiol — a naturally occurring compound with proven antimicrobial and skin-soothing properties
- ✓Anti-inflammatory action helps calm irritated or reactive skin
- ✓Astringent effect helps manage excess sebum and pore appearance
Sources
Korean MFDS — Chamaecyparis Obtusa in Cosmetic Formulations: Chamaecyparis obtusa (Hinoki Cypress) extract is a well-established ingredient in Korean and Japanese cosmetic traditions, recognised by the Korean MFDS as safe for cosmetic use with documented antimicrobial and soothing properties.
Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract
Benefits
- ✓Fermentation process produces postbiotics (lactic acid, peptides) that strengthen the skin barrier and improve its resilience
- ✓Brightening and skin-conditioning properties improve overall skin texture and radiance
- ✓Supports a balanced skin environment by creating conditions less favourable to harmful bacteria
Potential concerns
- !Those with a soy allergy should use with caution; fermentation typically degrades soy proteins significantly, but sensitivity remains possible
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Ferment Filtrates and Postbiotics: CTPA recognises ferment filtrates and postbiotic extracts as safe skin-conditioning actives; they are well tolerated across skin types and are not associated with significant adverse effects in cosmetic use.
Korean MFDS — Fermented Ingredient Guidelines for Cosmetics: The Korean MFDS recognises fermented botanical extracts, including soybean ferment, as safe and effective skin-conditioning actives in cosmetic formulations, with supporting data for barrier-strengthening and brightening claims.
Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract
Benefits
- ✓Antimicrobial activity helps reduce bacteria on the skin surface
- ✓Antioxidant compounds protect against oxidative stress
Potential concerns
- !Contains cinnamaldehyde — one of the most well-documented skin sensitisers and allergens in cosmetics; a leading cause of cosmetic contact dermatitis
- !EU Cosmetics Regulation and CTPA flag cinnamaldehyde as a significant sensitisation risk requiring mandatory disclosure
- !Korean MFDS advises caution for use in leave-on cosmetic products
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Cinnamaldehyde (Fragrance Allergen): CTPA lists cinnamaldehyde (present in cinnamon bark extract) as a regulated fragrance allergen under EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III. Disclosure is mandatory above threshold concentrations; those with fragrance sensitivity or sensitive skin should avoid products containing this ingredient.
Korean MFDS — Caution Ingredients in Leave-On Cosmetics: The Korean MFDS lists cinnamon bark-derived ingredients as caution ingredients in leave-on cosmetic formulations due to the sensitisation risk associated with cinnamaldehyde content.
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Benefits
- ✓Baicalin and baicalein — the key actives — are potent anti-inflammatory agents that visibly reduce redness and calm reactive skin
- ✓Antioxidant potency rivals that of Vitamin C, protecting skin from free radical and UV-related damage
- ✓Clinically studied for use in calming rosacea-prone and sensitive skin
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract: CTPA classifies Scutellaria baicalensis root extract as a well-tolerated botanical with documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; no significant safety concerns have been identified at cosmetic use concentrations.
Korean MFDS — Botanical Ingredients in Functional Cosmetics: Scutellaria baicalensis root extract is widely used in Korean functional cosmetics and is recognised by the Korean MFDS as safe, with supporting evidence for soothing and antioxidant claims in topical formulations.
Portulaca Oleracea Extract
Benefits
- ✓Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins C and E that deeply soothe and nourish irritated, reactive skin
- ✓Anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce redness and sensitivity
- ✓Antioxidant polyphenols protect against environmental and UV-induced skin stress
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Portulaca Oleracea Extract: CTPA lists portulaca oleracea extract as a well-tolerated skin-conditioning botanical with documented soothing and antioxidant properties; no significant safety concerns at cosmetic use concentrations.
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract
Benefits
- ✓Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) — an essential fatty acid that strengthens the skin barrier and reduces water loss
- ✓Clinically studied to help manage dry, eczema-prone, and mature skin conditions
- ✓Anti-inflammatory properties relieve redness and calm irritated skin
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Extract: CTPA recognises evening primrose extract as a well-documented, safe skin-conditioning botanical rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA); it is well tolerated across all skin types including sensitive and compromised skin.
Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract
Benefits
- ✓Polyphenol-rich antioxidant that helps protect skin from UV and pollution-related damage
- ✓Antimicrobial properties help maintain skin clarity
- ✓Mild astringent effect helps minimise the appearance of pores
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract: CTPA classifies pine leaf extracts as safe skin-conditioning botanicals with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties; no significant safety concerns have been identified at cosmetic use concentrations.
Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract
Benefits
- ✓Anti-inflammatory compounds help soothe sensitised and irritated skin
- ✓Skin-conditioning properties improve texture and smoothness
- ✓Traditionally used in Korean skincare for calming and barrier-supporting benefits
Sources
Korean MFDS — Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract in Cosmetics: Ulmus davidiana root extract is a recognised botanical ingredient in Korean cosmetics, listed by the Korean MFDS as safe for use in topical formulations with documented soothing and skin-conditioning properties.
Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
Benefits
- ✓Rich in isoflavones (puerarin, daidzin) with strong antioxidant and skin-brightening properties
- ✓Anti-inflammatory; helps calm reactive skin and reduce post-breakout redness
- ✓May help improve uneven skin tone and support radiance with regular use
Potential concerns
- !Isoflavone content may be a consideration for individuals sensitive to phytoestrogens, though topical absorption is minimal
Sources
Korean MFDS — Pueraria Lobata Root Extract in Functional Cosmetics: Pueraria lobata (kudzu) root extract is registered as a safe botanical ingredient in Korean cosmetics under Korean MFDS guidelines, with recognised antioxidant and brightening activity in topical formulations.
CTPA Ingredient Library — Pueraria Lobata Root Extract: CTPA considers pueraria lobata root extract safe for use in cosmetics; it is well tolerated and its isoflavone content poses no significant safety concern given the limited systemic absorption from topical application.
Limonene
Benefits
- ✓Fragrance component that gives products a fresh, citrusy scent
- ✓Mild solvent that contributes to the feel and spreadability of a formula
Potential concerns
- !One of the most common fragrance allergens — EU Cosmetics Regulation requires mandatory label disclosure when present above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off products
- !Can cause contact dermatitis or sensitisation with repeated exposure in predisposed individuals
Sources
CTPA Ingredient Library — Limonene (Regulated Fragrance Allergen): CTPA lists limonene as a regulated fragrance allergen under EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III. Mandatory disclosure on the ingredient label is required above defined threshold concentrations. It is considered safe at cosmetic use levels but is a known sensitiser in susceptible individuals.
FDA Fragrance Allergen Disclosure Review — Limonene: The FDA has identified limonene as a fragrance allergen under consideration for mandatory disclosure requirements in US cosmetics, consistent with its classification as a sensitiser in European and international regulatory frameworks.
Ingredients listed in order of concentration (highest first).
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