ProX Deep Wrinkle Treatment

Based on the ingredients present, we could not conclude whether the ProX penetrates deep into the skin surface. This would require measurement evidence and a definition of what deep means. We can see a high proportion of ingredients that have skin conditioning and emollient properties (such as Glycerine, Dimethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate). Therefore, claims such as smoothing the appearance of deep wrinkles by hydration, providing younger looking skin could be supported based on the ingredient list. Claims that the ProX serum fortifies the stratum corneum and boosts surface cell turnover can be partially supported by the ingredients such as Glycerin, Niacinamide, Retinyl Propionate, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7, to name a few.

The ingredients listed do not contain any known fragrance allergens. It does contain some preservatives. DMDM Hydantoin is a preservative that works by releasing formaldehyde to prevent microorganism growth. CIR has confirmed it is safe to use in concentrations of about 0.8% or less. In the EU, when used as a preservative maximum allowed concentrations are up to 0.6%. Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate is another preservative. CIR concluded that it was safe to use in cosmetics in concentrations of 0.1% or less. In the EU, the maximum allowed limit (as a preservative) is 0.01%. The EU also bans its use in body lotions and lip-care products.

Lastly, the product contains Sodium Hydroxide which is on the EU restricted ingredient list. Sodium Hydroxide is used to stabilize the pH in cosmetics. Sodium Hydroxide falls on the list of ingredients restricted to use in Europe, as it has shown to cause skin irritation at concentrations 0.5% and higher and be corrosive at concentrations above 2%.

We asked Olay to confirm if these ingredients are following general safety guidelines, but they declined to comment.