SK-II 'Facial Treatment' Clear Lotion 5.1 oz
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This product contains beneficial ingredients like Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Glycerin, and Sodium Hyaluronate, which provide moisturizing and skin-enhancing benefits. However, the presence of Methylparaben, a preservative linked to potential endocrine disruption, and PEG compounds, which can be concerning due to contamination risks, lowers its overall safety profile. The product is moderately processed, which also impacts its rating.
Key ingredients 16
Galactomyces Ferment FiltrateVery Good
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate is a yeast-derived ingredient known for its moisturizing and brightening properties. It helps improve skin texture and clarity. It is often used for its antioxidant benefits.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience irritation.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and provides antioxidant protection.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a powerful humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. It helps maintain skin hydration and improves barrier function. It is well-tolerated and beneficial for all skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin.
Benefits
It enhances skin hydration and supports the skin's natural barrier.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium Hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid known for its excellent moisture-retaining properties. It helps plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines. It is highly effective in hydrating and soothing the skin.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some individuals may experience irritation.
Benefits
It provides deep hydration and improves skin elasticity.
Salicylic AcidGood
Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid known for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties. It helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation. It is effective in treating acne-prone skin.
Risks
Overuse can lead to skin irritation and dryness.
Benefits
It exfoliates the skin and helps prevent acne.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It helps in the application and absorption of the product. It does not provide direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps in the even distribution of other active ingredients.
Butylene GlycolNeutral
Butylene Glycol is a common humectant that helps retain moisture in the skin. It also serves as a solvent and improves the texture of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
It aids in skin hydration and improves product spreadability.
Polysorbate 20Neutral
Polysorbate 20 is an emulsifier that helps blend oil and water-based ingredients. It stabilizes formulations and enhances product consistency. It is widely used in cosmetics for its emulsifying properties.
Risks
Potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of ethoxylation, is a concern.
Benefits
It improves the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.
PEG-150Neutral
PEG-150 is a thickening agent used to enhance the texture of cosmetic products. It helps stabilize formulations and improve product consistency. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
Potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane is a concern.
Benefits
It improves the texture and stability of formulations.
Cellulose GumNeutral
Cellulose Gum is a thickening agent that helps improve the texture and stability of cosmetic products. It is derived from cellulose and is widely used in various formulations. It is considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with cellulose gum.
Benefits
It enhances the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.
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 safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
In high concentrations, it may cause skin irritation.
Benefits
It helps balance pH and provides mild exfoliation.
Lactic AcidNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
In high concentrations, it may cause irritation or sensitivity.
Benefits
It gently exfoliates and hydrates the skin.
Malic AcidNeutral
Malic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid used for its exfoliating properties. It helps improve skin texture and appearance. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
In high concentrations, it may cause skin irritation.
Benefits
It provides mild exfoliation and improves skin texture.
Sodium CitrateNeutral
Sodium Citrate is used as a buffering agent to maintain the pH of cosmetic formulations. It helps stabilize products and enhance their efficacy. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with sodium citrate.
Benefits
It helps maintain product stability and pH balance.
Disodium EDTABad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
There are concerns about its environmental impact and potential skin irritation.
Benefits
It improves product stability and prevents ingredient degradation.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Synthetic preservative that can form benzene in the presence of vitamin C.
Risks
There are concerns about its potential to cause skin irritation.
Benefits
It prevents microbial growth and extends product shelf-life.
MethylparabenVery Bad
Methylparaben is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is effective in extending the shelf-life of products. However, it is associated with potential endocrine disruption and skin irritation.
Risks
Concerns about endocrine disruption and skin irritation exist.
Benefits
It effectively prevents microbial growth in formulations.
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