The Ordinary

Soothing & Barrier Support Serum

face serum

Added Last edited

Fit by skin type

General, ingredient-based — not your personalized match.

Dry
56%
Combination (dry)
56%
Balanced
86%
Combination (oily)
84%
Oily
84%

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45
Ingredients
5
Benefits
1
Actives
Find Dupes

A multi-active serum designed to support skin-barrier repair while soothing discomfort and reducing the look of redness.

Key Insights

Benefits

5
Anti-Aging
Evens Skin Tone
Hydration
Pore Minimizer
Soothing

Active Ingredients

1
Vitamin B3 (niacinamide)

Risks

2
Alcohol
Allergen

Full Ingredients

45 total
AQUA PROPANEDIOL ISODECYL NEOPENTANOATE PENTYLENE GLYCOL NIACINAMIDE Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) HEXYLDECANOL CETEARYL ALCOHOL XYLITYLGLUCOSIDE CETETH-20 PHOSPHATE ANHYDROXYLITOL ETHYL LINOLEATE ASIATICOSIDE ASIATIC ACID MADECASSIC ACID NARINGENIN CYANOCOBALAMIN PANTHENYL TRIACETATE 4-T-BUTYLCYCLOHEXANOL HYDROXYPHENYL PROPAMIDOBENZOIC ACID CETYLHYDROXYPROLINE PALMITAMIDE BISABOLOL BRASSICA CAMPESTRIS STEROLS SPHINGOLIPIDS PHOSPHOLIPIDS EPIGALLOCATECHIN GALLATYL GLUCOSIDE GALLYL GLUCOSIDE PROPYL GALLATE XYLITOL ZINGIBER OFFICINALE ROOT EXTRACT STEARIC ACID DICETYL PHOSPHATE ISOCETETH-20 XANTHAN GUM TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE TOCOPHEROL DEHYDROACETIC ACID P-ANISIC ACID PHYTIC ACID SODIUM PHYTATE SODIUM CITRATE SODIUM HYDROXIDE BENZYL ALCOHOL ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN PHENOXYETHANOL CHLORPHENESIN

About Soothing & Barrier Support Serum

Overview

Soothing & Barrier Support Serum is a lightweight serum from The Ordinary, a brand based in Canada. The formula is built mainly around hydration and soothing. The ingredient list runs to 45 ingredients, each broken down in full below.

Texture and finish

By its ingredient list the formula reads as light: water and humectants lead, with emollients kept lower in the order. Hydration is handled by Propanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin and Isodecyl Neopentanoate, humectants that pull water into the upper layers of skin rather than sealing it there.

What the formula does

Hydration: High. Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin, and here that comes from Propanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Isodecyl Neopentanoate and Pentylene Glycol.

Soothing: High. Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity, and here that comes from Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Asiaticoside, Bisabolol and Niacinamide.

Brightening: Moderate. Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks, and here that comes from Niacinamide, Tocopherol and Phytic Acid.

Who it suits

On richness alone it suits Balanced, Combination (oily) and Oily skin best, and is the least natural fit for Dry and Combination (dry) skin. Nothing in the list is flagged as a common irritant, which is a reasonable starting point for reactive skin — though a patch test is still the only way to know.

What it does not target

The formula contributes little or nothing on antioxidant protection, cell renewal and firmness signalling. That is not a fault — most products are not meant to do everything — but if one of those is your priority, this is not the product that will address it.

What is not in it

Reading the full list, the formula is essential-oil-free, no drying alcohol, paraben-free, silicone-free, microplastic-free and sulfate-free. Those claims come from the ingredient list itself, not from the packaging. It does contain fragrance, worth knowing if your skin reacts to any of them.

Where it fits in a routine

It can be used morning and evening. In a routine it goes after toner, before moisturiser. Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer. Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

This summary is generated from the product's ingredient list. It is not a review, it is not the brand's own marketing claims, and it does not replace advice from a dermatologist.

Pros and cons

Drawn purely from the ingredient list

Pros

  • No essential oils
  • No drying alcohol
  • Silicone-free
  • No microplastics
  • Strong humectant content for hydration
  • Several soothing ingredients
  • No common irritants flagged in the list

Things to know

  • Contains fragrance or declared fragrance allergens
  • One ingredient could feed malassezia (fungal acne)

Which skin types it suits

Scored on how rich or light the formula reads from its INCI order.

Suitable for

  • Balanced skin
  • Combination (oily) skin
  • Oily skin

Less suitable for

  • Dry skin
  • Combination (dry) skin

Sensitive skin

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Skin concerns

Based on the curated benefits documented for this product's ingredients.

Helps with

  • Hydration 16 ingredients

    Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy

  • Soothing 12 ingredients

    Calms redness, irritation, and inflammation for sensitive skin

  • Anti-Aging 11 ingredients

    Boosts collagen and cell turnover to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

  • Evens Skin Tone 2 ingredients

    Brightens and balances complexion for a more uniform appearance

  • Pore Minimizer 1 ingredient

    Tightens and refines the look of enlarged pores

Does not target

Anti-Acne Blackhead Reducing Dark Spot Fading Oil Control Smooths Bumpy Skin

None of the ingredients in this formula are associated with these benefits. This is not unusual, as most products are designed to target a limited number of concerns.

Key ingredients

The actives, UV filters and benefit-carrying ingredients in this formula, in the order they are listed.

Propanediol

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration
Isodecyl Neopentanoate

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Propanoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-, isodecyl ester

Hydration
Pentylene Glycol

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

1,2-Dihydroxypentane

Hydration
Niacinamide Vitamin B3 (niacinamide)

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a gentle skincare active that repairs the skin barrier, calms redness, controls oil and evens tone at 2–5%. Official IUPAC name: **3-Pyridinecarboxamide**

Soothing Anti-Aging Pore Minimizer
Hexyldecanol

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

2-Hexyldecan-1-ol

Hydration
Cetearyl Alcohol

7th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Alcohols, C16-18

Hydration
Xylitylglucoside

8th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Xylitylglucoside

Hydration Soothing
Anhydroxylitol

10th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

D-Xylitol, 1,4-Anhydro-

Hydration
Asiaticoside

12th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Urs-12-en-28-oic acid, 2,3,23-trihydroxy-, O-6-deoxy-alpha-L-mannopyranosyl-(1->4)-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (2alpha, 3beta, 4alpha)-

Anti-Aging Soothing
Asiatic Acid

13th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

(2.alpha.,3.beta.,4.alpha.)-2,3,23-Trihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid

Anti-Aging
Madecassic Acid

14th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Urs-12-en-28-oic acid, 2,3,6,23-tetrahydroxy-, (2alpha,3beta,4alpha,6beta)-

Anti-Aging Soothing
Naringenin

15th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

4H-1-Benzopyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-5,7-dihydroxy-2-(40hydroxyphenyl)-, (2S)-

Anti-Aging Hydration Soothing

Formula analysis

Each axis is scored from the ingredients present and how high up the list they sit.

Hydration High

Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin

Barrier support Low

Lipids and repair signals that support skin barrier integrity

Antioxidant support None

Ingredients that mop up free radicals from UV and pollution

Oil control Low

Ingredients that moderate sebum or absorb shine

Brightening Moderate

Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks

Soothing High

Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity

Cell renewal None

Retinoids, acids and enzymes that speed surface turnover

Firmness signalling None

Peptides and growth factors that signal for collagen support

Active and supporting ingredients

"Active" here means an ingredient carrying a recorded active type or a recognised UV filter.

Active ingredients (1)

Supporting ingredients (44)

Solvents, emollients, texture agents and preservatives — the formula that carries the actives.

Aqua Propanediol Isodecyl Neopentanoate Pentylene Glycol Hexyldecanol Cetearyl Alcohol Xylitylglucoside Ceteth-20 Phosphate Anhydroxylitol Ethyl Linoleate Asiaticoside Asiatic Acid Madecassic Acid Naringenin Cyanocobalamin Panthenyl Triacetate 4-t-butylcyclohexanol Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide Bisabolol Brassica Campestris Sterols Sphingolipids Phospholipids Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside Gallyl Glucoside Propyl Gallate Xylitol Zingiber Officinale Root Extract Stearic Acid Dicetyl Phosphate Isoceteth-20 Xanthan Gum Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate Tocopherol Dehydroacetic Acid P-anisic Acid Phytic Acid Sodium Phytate Sodium Citrate Sodium Hydroxide Benzyl Alcohol Ethylhexylglycerin Phenoxyethanol Chlorphenesin

What is and is not in it

Read from the full ingredient list. A brand's own claim may differ.

Free from

  • Essential-oil-free
  • No drying alcohol
  • Paraben-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Microplastic-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Dye-free
  • Oil-free
  • No animal-derived ingredients

Contains

  • Fragrance

    Benzyl Alcohol

What to layer it with

Judged by the same curated rules our routine checker uses. It reads the ingredients, not the label.

Compatible with

  • Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)
  • Retinoids (retinol, retinal)
  • AHAs (glycolic, lactic)
  • BHA (salicylic acid)
  • PHAs (gluconolactone)
  • Benzoyl peroxide
  • Azelaic acid
  • Copper peptides
  • Bakuchiol
  • Niacinamide
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Ceramides
  • Signal peptides
  • Panthenol
  • Sunscreen

Nothing in this formula belongs to a group our rules can put in conflict, so it layers freely. Order still matters — thinnest texture first.

Where it fits in a routine

Morning Evening
  1. Cleanse
  2. Toning
  3. Treat
  4. Moisturise
  5. Protect

This product is the "Treat" step.

  • Apply to clean, dry skin and give it a minute to absorb before the next layer.
  • Introduce one new treatment at a time so you can identify what is working.

Safety and suitability

Flags to check, not verdicts. None of this is medical advice — if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or treating a skin condition, ask a doctor.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Nothing in this formula is on the standard pregnancy-caution list. That is not clearance — ask your doctor about anything you use daily.
Fungal acne (malassezia)
1 ingredient could feed malassezia: Ethyl Linoleate. That is about the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that you will break out.
Sensitive and reactive skin
No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.
Recorded ingredient risks
Alcohol, Allergen

Ingredients by function

Most ingredients do more than one job, so these counts add up to more than the 45 ingredients on the label.

7
Emollient

Softens and smooths by filling gaps between skin cells

6
Surfactant

Lifts oil and dirt, or holds oil and water together

5
Antioxidant

Neutralises free radicals from UV and pollution

5
Texture agent

Sets the thickness, spread and stability of the formula

4
Chelator

Binds trace metals that would otherwise spoil the formula

4
Preservative

Keeps the product free of microbial growth

4
Solvent

Dissolves and carries everything else

3
Humectant

Draws water into the upper layers of skin

2
pH adjuster

Sets the acidity the formula needs to work

1
Active

Changes how skin behaves rather than how it feels

1
Fragrance / colour

Changes how the product smells or looks

1
Soothing

Calms visible redness and irritation

1
Occlusive

Forms a film that slows water loss

1
Plant extract

Botanical material, usually for antioxidants or scent

Ingredient breakdown

Every ingredient on the label, in order, with what it does and roughly how much of it is likely to be there.

1 Aqua Solvent
Estimated level
30–80%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Water

2 Propanediol Texture agent
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • PubChem Compound Summary, April 2021, ePublication
  • SpecialChem, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2018, pages 1-73
  • Cosmetics & Toiletries, May 2013, pages 81-86
3 Isodecyl Neopentanoate Emollient
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Propanoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-, isodecyl ester

Hydration
4 Pentylene Glycol Solvent
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

1,2-Dihydroxypentane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • https://thedermreviewcom/pentylene-glycol/
  • Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, July 2017, pages 106-111
  • Prospector, June 2015, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, October 2012, pages 147S-168S
5 Niacinamide Active
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Active

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a gentle skincare active that repairs the skin barrier, calms redness, controls oil and evens tone at 2–5%. Official IUPAC name: **3-Pyridinecarboxamide**

Soothing Anti-Aging Pore Minimizer
15 scientific references
  • International Journal of Dermatology, February 2021, pages 166-173
  • Biomolecules & Therapeutics, July 2019, pages 562-569
  • Experimental Dermatology, February 2019, pages 15-22
  • Dermatologic Therapy, September 2017, ePublication
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, May 2017, page S116
  • International Journal of Pharmaceutics, March 2017, pages 158-162
  • Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America, May 2016, pages 145-152
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, July 2015, pages 405-412
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2014, pages 311-315
  • International Journal of Pharmacy, January 2013, pages 192-201
  • Dermatoendrocrinology, July 2012, pages 308-319
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2005, pages 1-31
  • Dermatologic Surgery, July 2005, pages 860-865
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2004, pages 231-238
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, April 2004, pages 88-93
6 Hexyldecanol Emollient
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

6th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

2-Hexyldecan-1-ol

Hydration
8 scientific references
  • Supercharged Hydration
  • How Hyaluronic Acid Benefits Skin
  • What is Dehydrated Skin & How to Choose the Best Products
  • What Your Moisturizer Must Contain
  • Moisturizer Myths You Should Stop Believing Now
  • The Benefits of Glycerin in Skin Care
  • The Best Face Oils for Skin
  • How Facial Oils Help Skin
7 Cetearyl Alcohol Emollient
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant, Texture agent

7th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Alcohols, C16-18

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • CosmeticsInfoorg, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • FDA Cosmetic Labeling Claims, August 2020, ePublication
  • Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Scientists of Korea, June 2009, pages 103-110
  • Journal of the American College of Toxicology, 1988, pages 359-413
8 Xylitylglucoside Humectant
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant

8th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Xylitylglucoside

Hydration Soothing
9 Ceteth-20 Phosphate Surfactant
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

9th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

Polyethylene Glycol (20) Cetyl Ether Phosphate

10 Anhydroxylitol Humectant
Estimated level
1–5%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant

10th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–5% of the formula.

D-Xylitol, 1,4-Anhydro-

Hydration
11 Ethyl Linoleate Emollient
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

11th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Ethyl linoleate

12 Asiaticoside Antioxidant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

12th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Urs-12-en-28-oic acid, 2,3,23-trihydroxy-, O-6-deoxy-alpha-L-mannopyranosyl-(1->4)-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-(1->6)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (2alpha, 3beta, 4alpha)-

Anti-Aging Soothing
13 Asiatic Acid
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

13th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

(2.alpha.,3.beta.,4.alpha.)-2,3,23-Trihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid

Anti-Aging
14 Madecassic Acid
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

14th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Urs-12-en-28-oic acid, 2,3,6,23-tetrahydroxy-, (2alpha,3beta,4alpha,6beta)-

Anti-Aging Soothing
15 Naringenin
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

15th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

4H-1-Benzopyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-5,7-dihydroxy-2-(40hydroxyphenyl)-, (2S)-

Anti-Aging Hydration Soothing
16 Cyanocobalamin
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

16th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Cyanocobalamin; Vitamine B12

Anti-Aging
8 scientific references
  • 5 Super Anti-Aging Antioxidants Your Skin Needs
  • How to Keep Your Neck & Chest Looking Young
  • Acne & Aging Skin
  • How to Diminish Uneven Skin Tone and Get Your Glow Back
  • What Are Peptides and What Do They Do for Skin?
  • The Truth About Firming Creams
  • Top 5 Reasons to Add Antioxidants to Your Skin Care Routine
  • Anti-Aging Superstars
17 Panthenyl Triacetate
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

17th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

4-[(3-Acetoxypropyl)amino]-2,2-dimethyl-4-oxobutane-1,3-diyl diacetate

18 4-t-butylcyclohexanol
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

18th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Cyclohexanol, 4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-

5 scientific references
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2020, pages 1,409-1,414
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2019, pages 534–547
  • Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, September 2018, pages 421-429
  • Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, February 2016, pages 9-16; and Volume 30 Supplement, pages 21-27
  • Experimental Dermatology, November 2010, pages 980-986
19 Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

19th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Benzoic Acid, 2-[[(3-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-1-Oxopropyl]Amino]-

Soothing
2 scientific references
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, June 2020, pages 658-660
  • Dermatology and Therapy, February 2020, pages 87-98
20 Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

20th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

L-Proline, 4-Hydroxy-1-(1-Oxohexadecyl)-, Hexadecyl Ester, (4R)-

21 Bisabolol Soothing
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Soothing

21st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

(R*,R*)-.alpha.,4-dimethyl-.alpha.-(4-methyl-3-pentenyl)cyclohex-3-ene-1-methanol; 3-Cyclohexene-1-methanol, alpha,4-dimethyl-alpha-(4-methyl-3-pentenyl)-, (theta,theta)-(+/-)-; 3-Cyclohexene-1-methanol, alpha,4-dimethyl-alpha-(4-methyl-3-pentenyl)-, (S-(theta,theta))- (levomenol)

Soothing Anti-Aging
6 scientific references
  • CosmeticsInfoorg, Accessed May 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2019, pages 299-303
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2017, pages 24S-25S
  • Cutis, November 2015, pages 337-342
  • Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 2014, pages 173-181
  • Food and Chemical Toxicology, October 2011, pages 2580-2585
22 Brassica Campestris Sterols Emollient
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

22nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Brassica Campestris Sterols is a mixture of sterols obtained from the Cabbage, Brassica campestris L., Brassicaceae

23 Sphingolipids Emollient
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Occlusive

23rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Sphingolipids

Hydration Anti-Aging Soothing
7 scientific references
  • American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, July 2021, ePublication
  • Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, November 2017, pages 175-191
  • Journal of Allergy and Chemical Immunology, February 2017, AB87
  • Lipids in Health and Disease, January 2016, ePublication
  • http://lipidlibraryaocsorg/lipids/introsph/indexhtm
  • Progress in Lipid Research, January 2013, pages 141-164
  • Skin Therapy Letter, July 2012, pages 6-9
24 Phospholipids
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

24th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Phospholipids

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, Volume 39, Supplement 2, September 2020, pages 5S–25S
  • Nanocosmetics, 2019, van Hoogevest P, Fahr A, pages 95-140
  • Journal of Food Bioactives, April 2019, volume 5, pages 31-42
  • Pharmacognosy Reviews, 2009, Volume 3, Issue 5, pages 82-89
  • Journal of Nanjing Medical University, November 2007, Volume 21, Issue 6, pages 349-353
25 Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside Antioxidant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

25th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside is the product obtained by the reaction of Epigallocatechin Gallate and glucose

Anti-Aging Hydration Soothing
26 Gallyl Glucoside Antioxidant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

26th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Gallyl Glucoside is the product of the reaction of Gallic Acid and glucose

Anti-Aging Hydration Soothing
27 Propyl Gallate Antioxidant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

27th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Propyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate

28 Xylitol Humectant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant

28th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Xylitol

Hydration Soothing
7 scientific references
  • Microorganisms, January 2021, pages 1–14
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, May 2019, pages 323-331
  • Advances in Nutrition, January 2019, Supplement, pages S31-S48
  • Experimental Dermatology, March 2018, pages 280-284
  • International journal of Applied Pharmaceutical and Biological Research, 2017, pages 67-73
  • Acta-dermato venereological, February 2017, pages 182-187
  • https://wwwcir-safetyorg/sites/default/files/Mannitol, %20Sorbitol, %20Xylitol_0pdf
29 Zingiber Officinale Root Extract Plant extract
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

29th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Zingiber Officinale Extract is an extract of the roots of the Ginger, Zingiber officinalis L., Zingiberaceae

30 Stearic Acid Emollient
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant, Texture agent

30th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Stearic acid

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, May 2019, pages 1-61
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2008, page 310
  • Therapeutics for the Clinician, May 2005, pages 317-324
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2003, pages 559-568
31 Dicetyl Phosphate Surfactant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

31st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Dihexadecyl hydrogen phosphate

32 Isoceteth-20 Surfactant
Estimated level
1–3%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

32nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 1–3% of the formula.

Alcohols, C16-branched, ethoxylated (20 mol EO average molar ratio)

33 Xanthan Gum Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant, Texture agent

33rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Xanthan gum

34 Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate Chelator
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Chelator

34th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

L-Aspartic acid, N,N'-1,2-ethanediylbis-, trisodium salt

35 Tocopherol Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

35th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-ol; .alpha.-tocopherol; Vitamin E

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Soothing
4 scientific references
  • Journal or Agricultural and Food Chemistry, June 2010, pages 7013-7020
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2001, pages 1212-1217
  • Canadian Family Physician, July 2006, pages 855-856
  • Dermatologic Surgery, April 1999, pages 311-315
36 Dehydroacetic Acid Preservative
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Preservative

36th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3-Acetyl-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2,4(3H)-dione

37 P-anisic Acid
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

37th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Benzoic acid, 4-methoxy-

38 Phytic Acid Chelator
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Chelator

38th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

cis-1,2,3,5-trans-4,6-Cyclohexanehexol, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis(dihydrogen phosphate)

Hydration Evens Skin Tone
5 scientific references
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, March 2021, Volume 20, Issue 3, pages 776-780
  • International Journal of Dermatology, February 2021, Volume 60, Issue 2, pages 166-173
  • https://wwwcir-safetyorg/sites/default/files/phytic122017reppdf
  • Journal of Food Science and Technology, February 2015, pages 676-684
  • The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, October 2011, Volume 4, Issue 10, pages 40-48
39 Sodium Phytate Chelator
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Chelator

39th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Myo-Inositol, hexakis(dihydrogen phosphate), sodium salt

40 Sodium Citrate Chelator
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Chelator, pH adjuster

40th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Trisodium citrate

41 Sodium Hydroxide pH adjuster
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
pH adjuster

41st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium hydroxide

42 Benzyl Alcohol Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent, Preservative, Fragrance / colour

42nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Benzyl alcohol

Alcohol Allergen
43 Ethylhexylglycerin
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

43rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,2-Propanediol, 3-(2-ethylhexyloxy)

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • PLoS One, October 2016, ePublication
  • Contact Dermatitis, May 2016, pages 281-288
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2013, pages 5S-21S
  • Personal Care, 2008, pages 1-4
  • Cosmetic Science Technology, 2006, pages 1-11
44 Phenoxyethanol Preservative
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Preservative

44th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2-Phenoxyethanol

45 Chlorphenesin Preservative
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Preservative

45th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,2-Propanediol, 3-(4-chlorophenoxy)-

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Frequently asked questions

What ingredients are in Soothing & Barrier Support Serum?

AQUA, PROPANEDIOL, ISODECYL NEOPENTANOATE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, NIACINAMIDE, HEXYLDECANOL, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, XYLITYLGLUCOSIDE, CETETH-20 PHOSPHATE, ANHYDROXYLITOL, ETHYL LINOLEATE, ASIATICOSIDE, ASIATIC ACID, MADECASSIC ACID, NARINGENIN, CYANOCOBALAMIN, PANTHENYL TRIACETATE, 4-T-BUTYLCYCLOHEXANOL, HYDROXYPHENYL PROPAMIDOBENZOIC ACID, CETYLHYDROXYPROLINE PALMITAMIDE, BISABOLOL, BRASSICA CAMPESTRIS STEROLS, SPHINGOLIPIDS, PHOSPHOLIPIDS, EPIGALLOCATECHIN GALLATYL GLUCOSIDE, GALLYL GLUCOSIDE, PROPYL GALLATE, XYLITOL, ZINGIBER OFFICINALE ROOT EXTRACT, STEARIC ACID, DICETYL PHOSPHATE, ISOCETETH-20, XANTHAN GUM, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, TOCOPHEROL, DEHYDROACETIC ACID, P-ANISIC ACID, PHYTIC ACID, SODIUM PHYTATE, SODIUM CITRATE, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, BENZYL ALCOHOL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, PHENOXYETHANOL, CHLORPHENESIN.

What are the active ingredients in Soothing & Barrier Support Serum?

NIACINAMIDE.

How do I use Soothing & Barrier Support Serum?

-Apply a few drops to your face in the morning and evening. -Use after cleansing and before anhydrous serums, oils, suspensions, and creams. Precautions: -If irritation occurs, rinse off, cease use, and consult a physician. -Use only as directed on unbroken skin. -Patch testing prior to use is advised. -Keep out of reach of children. Tip: Create a Purple Soothing Masque. Mix Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA and Soothing & Barrier Support Serum (pink serum) for a soothing leave-on masque. Both formulations help to support the skin’s natural barrier. For added age support benefits, add in Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides (blue serum) to improve the feel of skin firmness."

What skin types is Soothing & Barrier Support Serum good for?

Judged on how rich the formula reads from its ingredient list, it suits Balanced, Combination (oily), Oily skin best. It is the least natural fit for Dry, Combination (dry) skin.

Is Soothing & Barrier Support Serum good for sensitive skin?

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Is Soothing & Barrier Support Serum fungal acne safe?

One ingredient could feed malassezia: Ethyl Linoleate. That describes the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that it will cause a breakout.

Can I use Soothing & Barrier Support Serum while pregnant?

Nothing in this formula is on the standard pregnancy-caution list. That is not medical clearance — check anything you use daily with your doctor or midwife.

Is Soothing & Barrier Support Serum fragrance free?

No — it contains Benzyl Alcohol.

Does Soothing & Barrier Support Serum contain alcohol?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is no drying alcohol.

Is Soothing & Barrier Support Serum silicone free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is silicone-free.

Does Soothing & Barrier Support Serum contain essential oils?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is essential-oil-free.

Is Soothing & Barrier Support Serum paraben free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is paraben-free.

What can I layer with Soothing & Barrier Support Serum?

It layers well with Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), Retinoids (retinol, retinal), AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHA (salicylic acid), PHAs (gluconolactone), Benzoyl peroxide.

When should I apply Soothing & Barrier Support Serum?

Use it morning and evening, after toner, before moisturiser.

How many ingredients does Soothing & Barrier Support Serum have?

It lists 45 ingredients, of which 1 are recorded as actives.

Who makes Soothing & Barrier Support Serum?

The Ordinary, a brand based in Canada.

Brand
The Ordinary
Country
Canada
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