MOIZ OTC
EV MOIZ XL 500G
MOIZ ₹1,100 incl. of all taxes
View product
Moisturisers Evidence 
01 / 04
01 / 04 Moisturisers
Acne-OC Sebum Regulating Moisturizer
IPCA
75G
₹618 M.R.P.: ₹618 (incl. of all taxes) Free delivery above ₹499
📦
Delivered in 2-3 days across India
Shipped same-day from our clinic pharmacy · tracked
The Science of Moisturisers
IPCA Acne-OC Sebum Regulating Moisturizer (75G)
Drug Facts
Active Ingredients
ZINC PCA
CAFFEINE
BISABOLOL
⚑ Contains photosensitising ingredient(s) — pair with SPF 50+.
INGREDIENT · VITAMIN B COMPLEX, SKIN CONDITIONING AGENT
Niacinamide
also known as Vitamin B3, Nicotinamide
Evidence
Function
Barrier support, melanin transfer inhibition, anti-inflammatory, skin tone regulation
How it works
Niacinamide functions through multiple pathways including inhibition of melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, thereby potentially reducing hyperpigmentation. Research indicates it modulates skin barrier function by supporting ceramide and lipid synthesis, while simultaneously exerting anti-inflammatory effects through NAD+ pathway involvement. Studies suggest niacinamide's transdermal delivery is pH-dependent, with neutral formulation pH (7.4) facilitating approximately twofold greater skin permeation compared to acidic pH, which may enhance its biological activity.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Niacinamide demonstrates particular relevance for Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types, where post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and melasma represent significant clinical concerns, especially in Indian populations with genetic predisposition to melanin dysregulation. In Kerala's tropical climate with high UV exposure, niacinamide's dual mechanism—supporting barrier integrity against environmental stressors while inhibiting melanin transfer—offers protective benefits without photosensitization risk. Research indicates that niacinamide formulations optimized at neutral pH may enhance efficacy in darker skin phototypes where enhanced permeation facilitates superior melanin transfer inhibition, making it particularly suitable for Indian dermatological practice where melasma prevalence ranges from 8-40% in certain populations. Local humidity and heat may increase transepidermal water loss in tropical settings; niacinamide's barrier-strengthening properties may provide compensatory protection.
Effective concentration
2–10 %w/w (optimal ~4%w/w)
Clinical evidence
Large database analysis examining niacinamide's potential role in skin cancer prevention through supplementation.
Not specified in abstract provided Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that neutral pH (7.4) formulations increase niacinamide skin permeation approximately twofold compared to acidic pH (5.0), with corresponding changes in stratum corneum electrical properties facilitating enhanced transdermal delivery. Studies employed Franz cell diffusion experiments and electrical impedance spectroscopy using human skin models to characterize pH-dependent permeation mechanisms.
Not specified in abstract provided Scientific Reports. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that dissolving microneedle patches containing niacinamide exhibit greater skin-lightening effects than traditional topical formulations for treating melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Clinical studies have validated safety and efficacy with minimal adverse effects when using advanced transdermal delivery systems.
Not specified in abstract provided Recent Advances in Drug Delivery and Formulation. 2026. PubMed →
Systematic umbrella review evaluating nutritional supplements including niacinamide for primary prevention of skin diseases across 9,229 participants, examining preventive effects against ultraviolet radiation-induced skin pathology and other dermatological conditions.
Not specified in abstract provided Preventive Nutrition and Food Science. 2026. PubMed →
Research comparing glabridin with niacinamide as recognized inhibitor of melanosome transfer in UVB-irradiated co-culture systems demonstrated complementary mechanisms for reducing melanin transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes through dendrite suppression pathways.
Not specified in abstract provided Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Pregnancysafe
Photosensitivityno
Pairs well with
Glabridin · Tranexamic acid · Ceramides · Hyaluronic acid · Panthenol · Zinc compounds
INGREDIENT · BETA-HYDROXY ACID (BHA), KERATOLYTIC AGENT
Salicylic Acid
also known as 2-hydroxybenzoic acid
Evidence
Function
Keratolytic exfoliation and comedolytic agent with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
How it works
Salicylic acid penetrates the lipophilic stratum corneum to dissolve intercellular cement and promote desquamation of hyperkeratinized skin. Research indicates the ingredient may modulate sebum production and reduce comedone formation through keratin dissolution. Studies suggest it may help support skin barrier function normalization and have been shown to support adjunctive roles in combination protocols for various keratotic and inflammatory conditions. The mechanism involves both mechanical exfoliation and potential immunomodulatory effects when combined with debridement or occlusion strategies.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Salicylic acid may be utilized in Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types, though careful monitoring is essential given the elevated risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in individuals with skin of color. Research indicates patients with darker skin phototypes demonstrate heightened susceptibility to dyspigmentation following keratolytic treatments, particularly when combined with mechanical trauma or inadequate sun protection. In Kerala's tropical humid climate, occlusive formulations may increase absorption and irritation risk; lower starting concentrations (0.5-2%) are suggested with gradual titration. Sun protection (SPF 30+) is crucial post-treatment, as UVB exposure may exacerbate PIH risk. Discontinuation should be considered if erythema, irritation, or pigmentary changes develop.
Effective concentration
0.5–6 %w/w (optimal ~2%w/w)
Clinical evidence
Research indicates that salicylic acid, when combined with systematic mechanical debridement and occlusion therapy, may help support enhanced wart clearance with observable softening and size reduction within 6-12 weeks. Studies suggest that precise debridement coupled with adjunctive salicylic acid application may improve therapeutic penetration and support immune activation while maintaining safety through structured endpoint recognition.
Study authors not specified Advances in Skin & Wound Care. 2026. PubMed →
Evidence indicates that salicylic acid peels, when combined with modern tranexamic acid formulations in integrated skincare regimens, may help support improved pigmentary outcomes and skin texture improvements. Research suggests that pairing salicylic acid procedures with complementary topical agents may accelerate improvement in dyspigmentation and offer added benefits for skin radiance.
Study authors not specified Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Systematic review findings indicate that topical salicylic acid, particularly when combined with complementary ingredients such as L-carnitine and licochalcone-A, may help support reduction in acne lesions and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Research suggests synergistic formulations may enhance efficacy in management of multiple skin concerns simultaneously.
Study authors not specified Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 2026. PubMed →
Literature review indicates that topical salicylic acid has been shown as a conventional therapeutic option for aquagenic palmoplantar keratoderma management. Research suggests it may help support symptom mitigation in keratotic disorders, though efficacy varies by patient and may require combination approaches with barrier agents and other adjunctive therapies.
Study authors not specified Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Research review emphasizes that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk is significantly elevated in Fitzpatrick IV-VI individuals, highlighting the need for careful consideration when utilizing keratolytic agents. Studies indicate that prompt diagnosis and management, including judicious use of keratolytic treatments alongside protective measures, may help support improved outcomes and quality of life in individuals with skin of color.
Study authors not specified Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 2026. PubMed →
Pregnancycaution
Photosensitivityno
Pairs well with
Niacinamide · Centella Asiatica Extract · Azelaic Acid · Glycolic Acid · L-Carnitine · Tranexamic Acid · Licochalcone A · Sunscreen agents (mineral and chemical)
Avoid combining with
Benzoyl Peroxide (may be less stable in combination) · Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid, pH-dependent interaction) · Strong Retinoids (increased irritation risk) · Aluminium Chloride (may increase keratolytic effect excessively)
INGREDIENT · RETINOID, VITAMIN A DERIVATIVE
Retinol
also known as Vitamin A, Retinyl Alcohol
Evidence
Function
May help support skin cell turnover, collagen synthesis, and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles through vitamin A receptor activation
How it works
Retinol undergoes metabolic conversion to retinaldehyde and retinoic acid, which bind to nuclear retinoid receptors (RAR and RXR) in keratinocytes and fibroblasts. This activation has been shown to upregulate genes involved in collagen synthesis, cell proliferation, and differentiation while potentially downregulating matrix metalloproteinases. Research indicates retinol may also support mitochondrial function and counteract photo-oxidative stress in dermal fibroblasts through multiple signaling pathways including those related to cellular senescence.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Retinol may carry heightened irritation risk in Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types and requires cautious introduction due to increased melanin content and barrier sensitivity. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a significant concern in Indian skin populations; initiation at lower concentrations (0.25%) with gradual titration over 4-8 weeks is recommended. In Kerala's tropical, humid climate with high UV exposure, concurrent use of broad-spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB sunscreen is mandatory to prevent photodamage and mitigate PIH risk. Formulations should incorporate stabilizing technologies (such as ethosomes or encapsulation systems) to reduce irritation potential while enhancing permeation without overwhelming the skin barrier. Night-time application and alternating frequency (2-3 times weekly initially) may help minimize sensory irritation and erythema in darker skin phenotypes.
Effective concentration
0.25–1 % w/w (optimal ~0.5% w/w)
Clinical evidence
Studies indicate that ethosomal encapsulation of retinol using TPGS modification substantially reduces degradation rates at room temperature while maintaining particle size stability. Research suggests that optimized ethosomal formulations with binary alcohol systems can achieve enhanced transdermal permeation and drug loading capacity, potentially addressing retinol's chemical instability limitations. Incorporation of antioxidants has been shown to further improve stability profiles of retinol-containing delivery systems.
et al. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that retinoids including retinol remain the gold standard for topical anti-aging treatments, though their application is frequently limited by skin irritation and poor tolerability, particularly in sensitive or aged populations. Studies suggest comparative efficacy between retinol and plant-based alternatives can be evaluated through transcriptomic analysis and collagen synthesis assays in both 2D and 3D skin models. Evidence indicates that retinol's irritation profile may be particularly problematic for certain populations, creating clinical demand for refined formulation approaches.
et al. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that retinol shows promise in addressing dermal fibroblast senescence, which is a central mechanism of skin aging involving telomere shortening, mitochondrial decline, and dysregulation of signaling pathways. Studies suggest retinol's mechanism may involve modulation of pathways such as TGF-β and mTOR signaling to counteract the senescence-associated secretory pattern (SASP). However, retinol remains constrained by transdermal efficiency and cellular targeting limitations that present opportunities for formulation innovation.
et al. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that retinol has been employed in reconstructed human epidermis models to induce photo-oxidative stress, demonstrating its relevance in studying skin aging mechanisms. Studies suggest that evaluation of anti-aging compounds often involves co-treatment with retinol to assess inflammatory, hydration, proliferation, and barrier-related markers. Evidence indicates retinol's role in photodamage modeling helps elucidate mechanisms of cellular senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction in skin aging pathways.
et al. Biomedicines. 2026. PubMed →
Pregnancycaution
Photosensitivityyes — use SPF
Pairs well with
Tocopherol · Tocopheryl Acetate · Niacinamide · Hyaluronic Acid · Ceramides · Glycerin · Centella Asiatica Extract · Rosmarinus Officinalis Extract
Avoid combining with
Benzoyl Peroxide · Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) at high pH · AHA/BHA (concurrent use may increase irritation) · Tretinoin · Adapalene · Isotretinoin
