Does it actually work?

We grade skincare remedies — traditional and modern — by the strength of the real evidence. No hype, no products to sell. Just an honest letter grade and the reasoning behind it.

What the grades mean

  1. AStrong evidence
  2. BModerate evidence
  3. CLimited evidence
  4. DTraditional, untested
  5. FWe advise against this

The grade reflects evidence only — not how old, popular, or traditional a remedy is. How we grade →

CRice waterDoes rice water brighten skin?FLemon juiceIs lemon juice good for skin whitening?CTurmeric (haldi)Does turmeric whiten or brighten skin?BAloe veraDoes aloe vera help your skin?CNeemDoes neem clear acne?BCoconut oilIs coconut oil good for your face?CMultani mittiDoes multani mitti help oily skin and tan?CBesan (gram flour)Does besan brighten skin?DSaffron & kumkumadiDoes saffron or kumkumadi oil brighten skin?FFairness / skin-whitening creamsAre fairness and skin-whitening creams safe?ARetinolDoes retinol actually reduce wrinkles and acne?BSalicylic acidDoes salicylic acid clear acne and blackheads?BNiacinamideDoes niacinamide improve skin barrier, oil, and tone?BHyaluronic acidDoes hyaluronic acid actually hydrate skin?CTea tree oilDoes tea tree oil treat acne?BAllantoinDoes allantoin soothe irritated skin and help repair the skin barrier?CAlmond oilDoes almond oil moisturise and improve skin?CAloe gelDoes aloe vera gel soothe and heal skin?BAcne gelDoes acne gel clear pimples and prevent breakouts?CAloe vera juiceDoes aloe vera juice soothe and hydrate skin?FAloe latexDoes aloe latex heal skin or soothe digestion safely?