Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Gel 6 oz
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This cleansing gel contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, which are known for their hydrating properties. However, it also includes synthetic compounds such as phenoxyethanol and disodium EDTA, which are common in processed skincare products. The presence of these synthetic ingredients and the overall processing level prevent it from achieving a higher score.
Key ingredients 17
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic AcidVery Good
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. It is known for its excellent hydrating properties and ability to improve skin elasticity. It is highly beneficial for maintaining skin hydration and plumpness.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with hyaluronic acid, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Provides intense hydration and improves skin elasticity and texture.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is widely used in skincare products for its moisturizing properties. It is generally well-tolerated by most skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Glycerin helps to maintain skin hydration and improve skin barrier function.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It helps in forming the base of the product. It does not provide any direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps in hydrating the skin by providing moisture.
Cocamidopropyl HydroxysultaineNeutral
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is a surfactant used to create foam and cleanse the skin. It is considered milder than other surfactants. It is generally well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Helps in cleansing the skin without stripping natural oils.
Sodium Cocoyl IsethionateNeutral
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a mild surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is used to create a creamy lather and cleanse the skin. It is less irritating compared to harsher surfactants.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Provides gentle cleansing and helps maintain skin moisture.
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl TaurateNeutral
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is a mild surfactant that helps in cleansing the skin. It is derived from coconut oil and is known for its gentle properties. It is suitable for sensitive skin types.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in some individuals.
Benefits
Provides gentle cleansing and helps maintain skin moisture.
Sodium ChlorideNeutral
Sodium Chloride, or table salt, is used to adjust the viscosity of cosmetic products. It helps in thickening formulations. It is generally considered safe in cosmetics.
Risks
Excessive use may lead to skin dryness.
Benefits
Helps in adjusting product thickness and stability.
Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch DodecenylsuccinateNeutral
This ingredient is used as a film-forming agent and thickener in cosmetics. It helps in improving the texture and feel of the product. It is generally considered safe for use.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves product texture and provides a smooth application.
Potassium Acrylates CopolymerNeutral
Potassium Acrylates Copolymer is used as a film-forming agent and thickener. It helps in stabilizing emulsions and improving product texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Enhances product stability and texture.
HydroxyacetophenoneNeutral
Hydroxyacetophenone is an antioxidant used to protect the product from degradation. It helps in maintaining the stability and efficacy of the formulation. It is generally considered safe for use.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Protects the product from oxidative damage and enhances shelf life.
Linoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride PhosphateNeutral
This ingredient is used as a conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps in improving the feel and texture of the skin. It is generally considered safe for use.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves skin texture and provides conditioning benefits.
Polyquaternium-10Neutral
Polyquaternium-10 is a conditioning agent that helps in improving the texture and feel of the skin. It is used to enhance the spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Provides conditioning benefits and improves product spreadability.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It helps in maintaining the stability and efficacy of the product. It is generally considered safe in low concentrations.
Risks
Can be irritating in high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps in maintaining product stability by adjusting pH.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It also acts as a mild exfoliant and antioxidant. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps in maintaining product stability and provides mild exfoliation.
EthylhexylglycerinNeutral
Ethylhexylglycerin is used as a preservative and skin conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps in enhancing the efficacy of other preservatives. It is generally considered safe for use.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Enhances preservative efficacy and provides skin conditioning benefits.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin or if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Prevents microbial contamination and extends product shelf life.
Disodium EDTABad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Enhances product stability and prevents degradation.
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