Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream (Discontinued)
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream (Discontinued) was designed as a rescue cream for tired, dry skin. Known for its airy, 'whipped' texture, this moisturizer aimed to provide intense hydration using a blend of six rare African oils and a plant-derived ceramide complex. Beneficial ingredients like glycerin and fermented green tea seed oil extract provided antioxidant support and moisture retention, helping to reinforce the skin's acid mantle. While the formula felt luxurious and comforting on the skin, its heavy emollient base was specifically engineered for those suffering from extreme dryness or barrier depletion. The product was formulated to mimic the skin's natural lipid structure, providing a dense layer of protection against environmental stressors. However, for those with specific skin concerns like acne, the richness of this original formulation posed significant challenges. Although this version has since been replaced by an updated ceramide-rich formula, it remains a classic example of a high-occlusive moisturizer that prioritized barrier repair over pore-clarity.
Our Analysis
Our analysis of the original Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream reveals a high comedogenic risk level. The formula contains Isopropyl Isostearate and Ceteareth-20, both of which carry a maximum 5/5 pore-clogging rating. Isopropyl Isostearate is a highly penetrating ester that can solidify within the follicle, while Ceteareth-20 acts as a penetration enhancer that may drag other heavy ingredients deeper into the pores. Furthermore, the combination of Ceteareth-20 and Cetearyl Alcohol creates a synergistic effect that significantly increases congestion risk. These ingredients make the product problematic for anyone prone to breakouts.
Skin Type Recommendations
This product is best suited for extremely dry or mature skin types that are not prone to acne or congestion. Due to the high concentration of comedogenic ingredients like Isopropyl Isostearate and Ceteareth-20, we strongly advise those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin to avoid this specific formulation.
Flagged Ingredients
Highly penetrating ester that solidifies within the follicle.
Highly comedogenic penetration enhancer. Opens the skin barrier to drag other ingredients deeper, causing congestion.
Self-emulsifying version contains stearates that can clog pores.
Found in many butters; thickening agent with low-moderate risk.
Fatty alcohol emollient with low-moderate comedogenicity on its own. However, when combined with Ceteareth-20, the synergistic effect can significantly increase pore-clogging potential (combined rating of 4).
Pure Vitamin E is thick and sticky; safe in small amounts as an antioxidant, but potentially clogging in pure oil form.
Want Deeper Analysis?
Run our MACR (Multi-Axis Comedogenic Risk) analysis to get a comprehensive 5-axis risk assessment. This AI-powered analysis evaluates ingredients for Plugging Risk, Barrier Damage, Fungal Acne Risk, Oxidation Risk, and real-world User Reports — giving you personalized scores for your skin type.
