Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster at Nordstrom

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Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster at Nordstrom

75 Good
$39.00 · 1 fl oz
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Summary

This product contains beneficial ingredients such as azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and licorice root extract, which are known for their skin-soothing and brightening properties. However, the presence of phenoxyethanol, a synthetic preservative, and dimethicone, a silicone, slightly lowers its score due to potential skin sensitivity concerns. The formulation is mostly safe, but the inclusion of these synthetic components affects its overall rating.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 9
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Skin Care

Key ingredients 21

Water (Aqua)
Neutral

Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks.

Risks

There are no inherent risks associated with water in cosmetic products.

Benefits

Water helps in the application and absorption of the product.

See more about Water (Aqua) →
Azelaic Acid
Very Good

Azelaic Acid is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is effective in treating acne and rosacea by reducing redness and swelling. It also helps in evening out skin tone.

Risks

Some individuals may experience mild irritation or dryness.

Benefits

It helps in reducing acne and improving skin texture and tone.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Neutral

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is an emollient that helps to improve the texture and feel of the skin. It provides a silky finish and enhances the spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.

Benefits

It improves the texture and application of the product.

See more about C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate →
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Good

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is derived from coconut oil and glycerin. It is used as an emollient and helps to moisturize and replenish the skin. It is lightweight and non-greasy, making it suitable for all skin types.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It provides moisturizing benefits and enhances the skin's barrier function.

See more about Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride →
Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate
Neutral

Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate is an emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients. It is derived from natural sources and is considered mild and non-irritating. It is used to stabilize formulations.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It helps in stabilizing the formulation and improving product consistency.

See more about Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate →
Glycerin
Very Good

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It is widely used in skincare for its hydrating properties. It helps to maintain the skin's moisture balance and improve its barrier function.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with glycerin.

Benefits

It provides excellent hydration and helps to maintain skin moisture.

See more about Glycerin →
Cetearyl Alcohol
Neutral

Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener. It helps to soften the skin and improve the texture of the product. It is considered safe and non-irritating.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It improves the texture and feel of the product.

See more about Cetearyl Alcohol →
Glyceryl Stearate
Neutral

Glyceryl Stearate is an emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water components. It is derived from glycerin and stearic acid and is used to stabilize formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It helps in stabilizing the formulation and improving product consistency.

See more about Glyceryl Stearate →
Dimethicone
Neutral

Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer used to provide a smooth application and silky feel. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, helping to lock in moisture. It is widely used in cosmetics for its non-comedogenic properties.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause build-up on the skin over time.

Benefits

It provides a smooth application and helps to lock in moisture.

See more about Dimethicone →
Salicylic Acid
Good

Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its exfoliating properties. It penetrates into the pores to remove excess oil and dead skin cells, making it effective for acne treatment. It also helps to reduce inflammation and redness.

Risks

Overuse can lead to skin irritation and dryness.

Benefits

It effectively treats acne and improves skin texture.

See more about Salicylic Acid →
Adenosine
Good

Adenosine is a beneficial ingredient known for its anti-aging properties. It helps to smooth out wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. It also has soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with adenosine.

Benefits

It helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.

Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Very Good

Licorice Root Extract is known for its skin brightening and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce hyperpigmentation and soothe irritated skin. It is a natural ingredient with antioxidant benefits.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It brightens the skin and reduces inflammation.

See more about Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract →
Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract
Good

Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps to soothe the skin and reduce redness. It is a natural ingredient that supports skin health.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It soothes the skin and provides antioxidant protection.

Allantoin
Good

Allantoin is a skin-soothing agent that helps to calm irritated skin. It promotes skin healing and improves moisture retention. It is widely used in skincare for its gentle and non-irritating properties.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with allantoin.

Benefits

It soothes and heals the skin, improving moisture retention.

See more about Allantoin →
Bisabolol
Good

Bisabolol is a natural compound known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It helps to reduce skin irritation and redness. It is derived from chamomile and is gentle on the skin.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with bisabolol.

Benefits

It reduces skin irritation and provides soothing effects.

See more about Bisabolol →
Cyclopentasiloxane
Neutral

Cyclopentasiloxane is a silicone-based compound used to provide a smooth application and lightweight feel. It helps to improve the spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks, though it may cause build-up on the skin over time.

Benefits

It provides a smooth application and lightweight feel.

See more about Cyclopentasiloxane →
Xanthan Gum
Neutral

Xanthan Gum is a natural thickening agent used to stabilize formulations. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of the product. It is derived from natural sources and is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It stabilizes formulations and improves product texture.

See more about Xanthan Gum →
Sclerotium Gum
Neutral

Sclerotium Gum is a natural thickening agent used to stabilize formulations. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of the product. It is derived from natural sources and is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It stabilizes formulations and improves product texture.

See more about Sclerotium Gum →
Propanediol
Neutral

Propanediol is a glycol used as a solvent and humectant in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and feel of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It improves product texture and provides moisturizing benefits.

See more about Propanediol →
Butylene Glycol
Neutral

Butylene Glycol is a common solvent and humectant used in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.

Benefits

It improves product texture and provides moisturizing benefits.

See more about Butylene Glycol →
Phenoxyethanol
Bad

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is effective in low concentrations but can cause irritation in some individuals. It is considered a potential skin irritant and allergen.

Risks

It may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

It helps to preserve the product and extend its shelf life.

See more about Phenoxyethanol →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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