Sun Bum Cool Down Aloe Gel
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This product contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin and aloe vera, which are known for their moisturizing and soothing properties. However, the presence of phenoxyethanol, a preservative that can cause skin irritation and potential toxicity concerns, affects its overall safety profile. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the inclusion of some natural ingredients.
Key ingredients 9
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf ExtractVery Good
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, making it beneficial for calming irritated skin. It contains vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids that promote skin health. It is often used to treat sunburns and minor skin irritations.
Risks
Aloe vera is generally safe, but some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
Benefits
Aloe vera provides soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing benefits to the skin.
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is widely used in skincare for its ability to improve skin barrier function. It is considered safe and effective for all skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very rare cases.
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 is essential for the formulation but does not provide direct skin benefits. It acts as a carrier for active ingredients.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits
Water helps to hydrate the skin by providing moisture.
Polysorbate 20Neutral
Polysorbate 20 is an emulsifier used to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It helps to mix oil and water-based ingredients. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
In rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Benefits
Polysorbate 20 helps to stabilize formulations and improve product texture.
CarbomerNeutral
Carbomer is a thickening agent used to create gel-like textures in cosmetic products. It helps to stabilize emulsions and improve product consistency. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.
Risks
Carbomer is typically safe, but it can cause mild irritation if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Carbomer provides a smooth texture and stabilizes formulations.
EthylhexylglycerinNeutral
Ethylhexylglycerin is used as a preservative and skin conditioning agent. It enhances the efficacy of other preservatives and provides mild moisturizing benefits. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Ethylhexylglycerin helps to preserve the product and provides mild moisturizing benefits.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Sodium hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is effective in small amounts but can be corrosive in high concentrations. It is generally safe when used appropriately.
Risks
In high concentrations, sodium hydroxide can be corrosive and cause skin irritation.
Benefits
It helps to maintain the desired pH level in cosmetic formulations.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetics. It is effective but can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. It is often criticized for potential toxicity concerns.
Risks
Phenoxyethanol can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to preserve the product by preventing microbial contamination.
Disodium EDTABad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
Disodium EDTA can cause irritation in some individuals, especially with prolonged use.
Benefits
It improves product stability and enhances preservative efficacy.
Processing
Processed Foods
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