Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum - 1 fl oz - Ulta Beauty: Exfoliating, Brightening, Hydrating, Paraben-Free
Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This serum contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin, lactic acid, and sodium hyaluronate, which provide hydration and exfoliation benefits. However, the presence of polyacrylamide, BHT, and phenoxyethanol raises concerns due to potential health risks such as contamination and endocrine disruption. The product's processing level and inclusion of these controversial ingredients limit its overall safety and quality score.
Key ingredients 9
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf WaterVery Good
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and hydrating properties, making it ideal for calming irritated skin. It contains antioxidants and vitamins that support skin health. It is commonly used in skincare for its healing benefits.
Risks
Aloe vera is generally safe, but some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
Benefits
Aloe vera soothes and hydrates the skin, reducing inflammation and irritation.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is widely used in skincare products due to its ability to improve skin barrier function. It is considered safe and effective for most skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Glycerin helps maintain skin hydration and improves skin texture.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that can penetrate deeper into the skin, providing intense hydration. It helps to retain moisture, making the skin appear plumper and more youthful. It is a popular ingredient in hydrating skincare products.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in rare cases.
Benefits
Sodium hyaluronate provides deep hydration and helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Tocopheryl AcetateGood
Tocopheryl acetate is a form of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage. It supports skin health and improves moisture retention. It is commonly used in skincare for its protective benefits.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
Vitamin E helps protect the skin from environmental damage and supports moisture retention.
Magnesium Ascorbyl PhosphateGood
Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is a stable form of vitamin C that brightens the skin and reduces signs of aging. It is effective in promoting collagen production and improving skin tone. It is less irritating than other forms of vitamin C.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
This ingredient brightens the skin and supports collagen production, improving skin texture.
Lactic AcidNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
Overuse can lead to skin irritation or increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Benefits
Lactic acid helps to exfoliate and brighten the skin, improving its overall appearance.
BHTBad
BHT is a synthetic antioxidant used to extend the shelf life of products. It has been associated with potential health risks, including endocrine disruption and organ toxicity. Its use in cosmetics is controversial due to these concerns.
Risks
Potential endocrine disruption and organ toxicity are concerns with BHT.
Benefits
BHT helps to stabilize formulations and prevent oxidation.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is considered safer than parabens but can still cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. Its use is regulated due to potential toxicity concerns.
Risks
May cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Benefits
It effectively preserves cosmetic products by preventing microbial growth.
PolyacrylamideVery Bad
Polyacrylamide is used as a thickening agent in cosmetics but has raised concerns due to potential contamination with acrylamide, a suspected carcinogen. Its safety is debated, and it is restricted in some regions. It is not considered beneficial for skin health.
Risks
Potential contamination with acrylamide poses a cancer risk.
Benefits
It provides texture and stability to cosmetic formulations.
Processing
Processed Foods
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