Avene Cicalfate + Restorative Protective Skin Barrier Face Cream for Sensitive Skin - 1.3 fl oz
Summary
This face cream contains beneficial ingredients like zinc oxide and beeswax, which are known for their protective and soothing properties. However, the presence of mineral oil and PEG compounds, which are synthetic and can be irritating to sensitive skin, lowers its overall safety profile. The product is moderately processed, which further impacts its rating, despite the inclusion of some natural components.
At a glance
Key ingredients 17
Avène Thermal Spring WaterNeutral
Avène Thermal Spring Water is known for its soothing and anti-irritating properties, making it suitable for sensitive skin. It is primarily used as a base in skincare products to provide hydration. However, it does not have significant active benefits beyond hydration.
Risks
There are no known risks associated with Avène Thermal Spring Water.
Benefits
It provides hydration and has soothing properties for sensitive skin.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is derived from coconut oil and glycerin, and is used as an emollient and skin-repairing ingredient. It helps to replenish the skin's surface and resist moisture loss. This ingredient is well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though very sensitive skin may experience mild irritation.
Benefits
It provides excellent skin-conditioning properties and helps to improve the texture and feel of the skin.
Mineral OilNeutral
Mineral Oil is a highly refined, petroleum-derived ingredient used for its occlusive properties to prevent moisture loss. It is effective in forming a barrier on the skin's surface. Despite its effectiveness, it is sometimes criticized for being a non-renewable resource.
Risks
Some concerns exist about its environmental impact and potential to clog pores in acne-prone skin.
Benefits
It is highly effective at preventing moisture loss and is generally non-irritating.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, making it a common ingredient in skincare products. It helps to maintain the skin's moisture balance and improve hydration. Glycerin is well-tolerated and beneficial for all skin types.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with glycerin.
Benefits
It effectively hydrates the skin and helps to maintain its moisture balance.
Hydrogenated Vegetable OilNeutral
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil is used as an emollient and thickening agent in skincare products. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of formulations. While generally safe, it is less favored compared to natural oils due to its processing.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may not be suitable for very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides emollient properties and helps to improve product texture.
Zinc Oxide
Zinc Oxide is a mineral used in skincare for its protective and soothing properties. It acts as a physical barrier against irritants and has anti-inflammatory effects. It is particularly beneficial in products for sensitive or irritated skin.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with zinc oxide in topical applications.
Benefits
It provides excellent skin protection and soothing benefits, especially for sensitive skin.
Propylene GlycolNeutral
Propylene Glycol is a synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water and is used to enhance the absorption of other ingredients. It is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics. However, it can cause irritation in some individuals with very sensitive skin.
Risks
Potential for irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It enhances the absorption of active ingredients and helps to maintain moisture.
Polyglyceryl-2 SesquiisostearateNeutral
Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquiisostearate is an emulsifier used to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is derived from natural sources and is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It does not provide significant active benefits beyond its functional role.
Risks
There are no known significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize formulations and improve product texture.
PEG-22/Dodecyl Glycol CopolymerNeutral
PEG-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer is used as an emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetic formulations. It helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients. While generally safe, PEG compounds can sometimes be contaminated with impurities.
Risks
Potential contamination with impurities during manufacturing.
Benefits
It effectively stabilizes formulations and improves texture.
Aluminum Sucrose OctasulfateNeutral
Aluminum Sucrose Octasulfate is used for its protective and soothing properties in skincare. It helps to form a protective barrier on the skin. While effective, it is not widely studied compared to other ingredients.
Risks
Limited research on long-term effects.
Benefits
It provides protective and soothing benefits for the skin.
Aluminum StearateNeutral
Aluminum Stearate is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the consistency and stability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It improves product stability and consistency.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees and is used for its emollient and thickening properties. It helps to form a protective barrier on the skin and lock in moisture. Beeswax is well-tolerated and beneficial for most skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to bee products.
Benefits
It provides excellent emollient properties and helps to lock in moisture.
Copper SulfateNeutral
Copper Sulfate is used in cosmetics for its antimicrobial properties. It helps to preserve the product and prevent microbial growth. However, it is used in very low concentrations due to potential toxicity at higher levels.
Risks
Potential toxicity if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
It provides antimicrobial benefits and helps to preserve the product.
Magnesium StearateNeutral
Magnesium Stearate is used as a lubricant and thickening agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It improves product texture and spreadability.
Magnesium SulfateNeutral
Magnesium Sulfate, also known as Epsom salt, is used for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often included in formulations to enhance texture and provide skin benefits. It is generally safe for topical use.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It provides soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin.
Microcrystalline WaxNeutral
Microcrystalline Wax is used as a thickening agent and emollient in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and stability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.
Benefits
It improves product texture and stability.
Zinc SulfateNeutral
Zinc Sulfate is used for its astringent and antimicrobial properties in skincare products. It helps to soothe and protect the skin. While effective, it is used in low concentrations to avoid irritation.
Risks
Potential for irritation if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
It provides astringent and antimicrobial benefits for the skin.
Processing
Processed Foods
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