Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide
Why this score
Concern52 / 55
- No ingredients carry meaningful, evidence-backed concern.
How much genuine, cited concern the ingredients carry, weighted by how much of each is likely present and whether the product stays on or rinses off.
Transparency20 / 20
- No hidden fragrance blend.
Whether the full ingredient list, and any fragrance, are actually disclosed.
Formulation restraint17 / 25
- 1 known irritant or fragrance-allergen ingredient: Propolis Extract.
Needless irritant or allergen load for the product type. A clean, purposeful formula scores well without any "free-from" theater.
Reviewed by PlainBody Editorial · Updated July 2026
What’s inside
Propolis ExtractWatch if sensitive
A resinous substance bees make from plant exudates, added to cosmetics for antioxidant and marketed "healing" properties. Contact-allergy reviews put patch-test positivity around 1 to 7 percent in tested dermatitis populations, concentrated in beekeepers and people already sensitized to fragrance or poplar-bud resins, so it is worth patch-testing if you have a history of contact allergies or bee-product sensitivity.
Full ingredient details →GlycerinGenerally safe
A humectant that draws water into the skin. One of the best-studied, best-tolerated ingredients in personal care.
Full ingredient details →Butylene GlycolCommonly feared, low concern
A lightweight humectant and solvent similar in role to propylene glycol, used to carry actives and give lotions a lighter feel. CIR has reviewed it and considers it safe as used in cosmetics.
Full ingredient details →WaterGenerally safe
The base most products are built on. It carries the other ingredients and has no safety concern.
Full ingredient details →NiacinamideGenerally safe
A form of vitamin B3 used to support a more even-looking tone and a comfortable barrier. Well tolerated at cosmetic levels.
Full ingredient details →Hyaluronic AcidGenerally safe
A humectant that holds water at the skin surface for a more hydrated look. No safety concern.
Full ingredient details →Below the 1% line
EthylhexylglycerinGenerally safe
A glycerin derivative used as a skin conditioner and preservative booster, often paired with phenoxyethanol to allow lower total preservative levels. It has a low irritation and sensitization profile in safety reviews.
Full ingredient details →Lower-concern alternatives
Same category, higher PlainScore.
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Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern ratings are evidence-graded and cited on each ingredient page. See how we score.