0.05% Tretinoin Cream
0.05% Tretinoin Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength retinoid cream containing 0.05% tretinoin (retinoic acid) — the FDA's gold-standard topical active for treating acne vulgaris, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, fading hyperpigmentation, and accelerating skin cell turnover. Formulated by Taro Pharmaceuticals, this is the mid-strength concentration in the tretinoin range, positioned between the starter 0.025% and the advanced 0.1% strength.
FDA Gold Standard Active
Tretinoin is the only retinoid with full FDA approval for treating both acne and photoaging — backed by decades of peer-reviewed clinical research.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFDA Gold Standard Active
Tretinoin is the only retinoid with full FDA approval for treating both acne and photoaging — backed by decades of peer-reviewed clinical research.
Bioavailable from First Use
Unlike retinol or retinaldehyde, tretinoin does not require conversion in the skin. It binds directly to retinoic acid receptors and starts working immediately.
Accelerated Cell Turnover
Speeds up the skin's natural renewal cycle, pushing out clogged pores, fading dark spots, and building collagen in the dermis over weeks of consistent use.
Mid-Strength Concentration
At 0.05%, this is the dermatologist-preferred step-up from the starter 0.025% — potent enough for visible results, manageable enough for most skin types that have built tolerance.
Affordable Generic Formula
Taro is a trusted pharmaceutical manufacturer producing a bioequivalent to brand-name Retin-A at a fraction of the cost, making consistent treatment more accessible.
Minimalist 9-Ingredient Formula
The cream base is intentionally simple — free from fragrances, parabens, dyes, and silicones — reducing the risk of additional sensitivities while delivering the active effectively.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETretinoin is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category X (teratogenic). Do not use during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Consult your doctor before use if breastfeeding.
Contains Isopropyl Myristate (a fatty acid ester), which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
Tretinoin increases photosensitivity during initial weeks of use. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds while using this product.
A purging phase (increased breakouts, peeling, redness) is common during the first 4–8 weeks as tretinoin accelerates cell turnover. This is normal and typically subsides with continued use.
Do not use on the same night as AHAs (glycolic/lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or benzoyl peroxide — this significantly increases irritation risk. Vitamin C should be reserved for morning use.
Contains no fragrances, common allergens, drying alcohols, parabens, silicones, or sulfates. Suitable for fragrance-sensitive users, though patch testing is still recommended for sensitive skin.
Does not contain chemical sunscreen filters (oxybenzone, octinoxate) or other ingredients flagged as reef-harming. Suitable for use in reef-protected areas.
Tretinoin is a prescription-only medicine in the United States, United Kingdom, and many other countries. A valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is required to obtain this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTretinoin 0.05%Proven
The gold-standard, FDA-approved retinoid (all-trans retinoic acid). Unlike retinol or retinaldehyde, tretinoin is already in its active form — it binds directly to nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RARs) in epidermal cells without needing conversion, making it significantly more potent and faster-acting than OTC retinoids.
- Anti-Aging: Clinically proven to reduce fine lines, improve skin elasticity, and stimulate collagen synthesis in the dermis.
- Acne: Regulates sebum production, prevents pore clogging, and accelerates turnover of comedone-forming cells.
- Hyperpigmentation: Inhibits abnormal melanin distribution and speeds up the shedding of pigmented cells.
- Cell Turnover: Increases epidermal proliferation rate, revealing fresher, smoother skin cells beneath the surface.
Stearic Acid + Stearyl Alcohol EmollientsSupporting
These two fatty acid-derived emollients form the cream base together with the PEG stearate emulsifier. Stearic acid softens and conditions skin while contributing to the cream's texture. Stearyl Alcohol (not a drying alcohol) is a fatty alcohol that provides slip and occlusion, helping to reduce the irritation potential of the tretinoin base.
- Stearic Acid: Comedogenic rating 2/5 — generally considered low risk at typical concentrations in formulas.
- Stearyl Alcohol: Comedogenic rating 2/5 — a well-tolerated fatty alcohol distinct from drying alcohols like ethanol.
Isopropyl Myristate EmollientSupporting
A synthetic ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid used as an emollient and penetration enhancer to improve the spreadability of the cream. Helps the active tretinoin distribute evenly across the skin surface, though it comes with some caveats.
- Comedogenic Rating: 3–5/5 — one of the more pore-clogging esters, particularly problematic for acne-prone users at higher concentrations.
- Fungal Acne: Isopropyl Myristate is not considered safe for malassezia folliculitis as it can serve as a lipid source for the yeast.
PEG-3 Stearate EmulsifierSupporting
A polyethylene glycol derivative of stearic acid that acts as the emulsifier keeping the oil and water phases of the cream blended together. Contributes to the cream's smooth, non-greasy texture.
- Safety: Considered safe at concentrations used in cosmetics by the CIR. Non-irritating for most users.
- Note: PEG-based ingredients may be a concern for those with compromised skin barriers on open wounds, though not problematic in normal topical use.
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) Antioxidant/PreservativeSupporting
A synthetic antioxidant used primarily to prevent the oxidation and degradation of tretinoin in the formula, extending shelf life and preserving potency. Also provides mild antioxidant protection at the skin surface.
- Safety: FDA and EU approved for use in cosmetics; CIR concludes it is safe at concentrations used in topical products (typically 0.01–0.1%).
- UK Restriction: As of April 2024, BHT has been restricted in the UK, though this does not apply to pharmaceutical-grade prescription products.
Sorbic Acid + Xanthan Gum Preservative + StabilizerSupporting
Sorbic acid is a naturally-derived preservative (the world's most widely used food preservative) that prevents microbial and fungal growth in the formula. Xanthan gum is a natural polysaccharide thickener that gives the cream its smooth, gel-like texture and stabilizes the emulsion.
- Sorbic Acid: Derived from rowan berries; approved by Ecocert; very low allergenicity profile.
- Xanthan Gum: Produced by fermentation of sugars; approved by Ecocert; used in the food industry as E415.
9 ingredients (Active + Inactive)
Active Ingredient: Tretinoin 0.05%
Inactive Ingredients: Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), Isopropyl Myristate, PEG-3 Stearate, Purified Water, Sorbic Acid, Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply only at night on clean, completely dry skin (wait 20–30 min after washing). Use SPF 30+ every morning without exception. Avoid mixing with acids or benzoyl peroxide on the same night.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse with a Gentle, Non-Stripping Cleanser
Use a mild, pH-balanced cleanser (avoid exfoliating or foaming cleansers with actives). Pat skin completely dry and wait 20–30 minutes — applying tretinoin to damp skin dramatically increases irritation and absorption unevenly.
Optional: Apply a Hydrating Serum or Toner First
For beginners or sensitive skin, the "sandwich method" works well: apply a thin layer of a non-active hydrating serum (with hyaluronic acid or glycerin) before tretinoin to buffer irritation. This does not significantly reduce efficacy.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
A pea-sized amount (approx. 0.25g) is sufficient for the entire face. Using more does NOT increase efficacy — it only increases irritation, peeling, and wastage. Start with applications 2–3 nights per week for the first 2–4 weeks.
Apply and Avoid Sensitive Areas
Dot small amounts on forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin, then gently spread in upward motions. Avoid the eye area (within the orbital bone), corners of the nose and mouth, and lips — these areas are thinner and more prone to severe irritation.
Lock In with a Fragrance-Free Moisturizer
Wait 5–10 minutes after applying tretinoin, then seal with a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer (ceramide-based or occlusive balm works well). This helps counteract dryness and peeling without interfering with tretinoin's action.
Morning: Always Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+
Tretinoin significantly increases photosensitivity. Daily application of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher (SPF 50 preferred) is non-negotiable throughout your entire tretinoin treatment — rain or shine, indoors or out.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have already tolerated tretinoin 0.025% for 6–8 weeks and want to step up
- You're dealing with persistent acne, comedones, or clogged pores
- Your goal is anti-aging — reducing fine lines, wrinkles, or sun damage
- You want to fade hyperpigmentation, melasma, or post-acne dark spots
- You're comfortable with a prescription-based skincare routine
- You're consistent with daily SPF use in the morning
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin types
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You are a complete retinoid beginner — start with 0.025% first
- You have very sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-compromised skin
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use in the morning
- You cannot tolerate the purging/peeling phase and need immediate clear skin
- You prefer OTC alternatives without a prescription requirement
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESTretinoin regulates sebum production and keeps pores clearer over time. The light cream texture absorbs well without adding shine. Oily skin types typically tolerate tretinoin with less initial irritation.
Works very well across different face zones. Regulates the T-zone while the cream base provides some comfort for drier cheek areas. Apply a heavier moisturizer to dry zones if needed.
Good compatibility. Normal skin types can typically use tretinoin 0.05% without excessive irritation after building tolerance. Start slowly and pair with a good moisturizer.
The cream base is more forgiving than the gel formulation for dry skin, but tretinoin will still exacerbate dryness and flaking. A rich, barrier-supporting moisturizer immediately after application is essential. Start very slowly (1–2x/week).
Use with caution. The cream formula is gentler than gel, and the sandwich method (humectant serum before, rich moisturizer after) helps. Those with rosacea or reactive skin should consult a dermatologist before starting at 0.05% — the 0.025% may be a better entry point.
Tretinoin is one of the most effective ingredients for acne. However, initial purging (weeks 2–6) is common as clogged pores are cleared. Note: the Isopropyl Myristate base may be a concern for those with fungal acne specifically — consider a tretinoin gel formulation in that case.
Results timeline
6–12 MONTHS+Initial Adjustment — The "Retinoid Uglies"
Mild to moderate dryness, flaking, redness, and sensitivity are normal during the first two weeks. This is the skin adjusting to accelerated cell turnover, not a sign of damage. Reduce frequency to 2–3 nights per week if irritation is severe.
~80% of users experience some initial adjustmentPurging Phase — Temporary Breakout Peak
Tretinoin brings trapped sebum and microcomedones to the surface, which can temporarily worsen acne before clearing it. Skin texture may feel rough, and dark spots may temporarily appear more prominent as they rise to the surface. This phase is a sign the product is working.
~60% of users report purging in this windowFirst Visible Improvements — Clearer, Smoother Skin
Breakouts begin to decrease significantly. Pores appear smaller. Skin texture starts to even out and smooth over. Light sun damage and superficial dark spots begin to fade. The skin adjusts to tretinoin's effects and irritation subsides for most users.
~75% notice improved clarity and textureSignificant Transformation — Anti-Aging and Pigmentation Correction
Fine lines and wrinkles begin to visibly soften. Hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-inflammatory dark spots fade substantially. Skin firmness and elasticity improve. Many users describe their skin as looking brighter, plumper, and more youthful.
~77% report positive results by 3 months (Drugs.com data)Long-Term Benefits — Cumulative Skin Renewal
With consistent long-term use, tretinoin produces cumulative collagen-stimulating benefits that compound over years. Users with decades of consistent use report dramatically reduced wrinkles and a significantly more youthful skin appearance. Long-term use remains safe with SPF protection.
~90% of long-term users report sustained positive resultsRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- FDA-approved active ingredient with decades of clinical evidence
- Visible results for acne, hyperpigmentation, and anti-aging in 6–12 weeks
- Bioavailable from first application — no conversion steps required
- Significantly more affordable than brand-name Retin-A
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, dye-free formula
- Minimalist 9-ingredient formula minimizes additional sensitivities
- Cream base is gentler than gel formulations for drier skin types
- Long-term cumulative anti-aging benefits with consistent use
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not available OTC in the US or UK
- Initial purging and irritation phase is challenging for many users
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not fungal-acne safe due to Isopropyl Myristate in the base
- Mandatory daily SPF use required — non-negotiable
- No humectants (no HA or glycerin) in the formula itself
- Cannot be combined with AHAs, BHAs, or benzoyl peroxide on the same night
- Small tube sizes (20g) run out quickly for those applying to face and neck
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Other FDA-approved generic tretinoin cream manufacturers (Perrigo, Actavis) produce bioequivalent 0.05% tretinoin cream formulas. Nearly identical ingredients and efficacy. Price varies by pharmacy and insurance. Ask your pharmacist for the lowest-cost generic available.
If you're concerned about the Isopropyl Myristate in the cream base (fungal acne, clogged pores), Taro's gel formulation uses a simpler water-alcohol base without the fatty ester. The gel delivers the same tretinoin concentration without pore-clogging emollients. Slightly more drying.
The only retinoid available OTC in the US. Adapalene 0.1% is a 3rd-generation retinoid with a good acne-fighting profile and excellent tolerability, though it is less potent than tretinoin 0.05% for anti-aging, collagen stimulation, and hyperpigmentation. No prescription needed — a good starting point before progressing to tretinoin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Tretinoin degrades with exposure to light, heat, and air — use consistently and close the cap tightly after each use to preserve potency.
Store at controlled room temperature, 20–25°C (68–77°F). Keep away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Do not freeze. Refrigerating (not freezing) can extend shelf life for unopened tubes and is preferred by some users.
Aluminum tube with flip-top cap. The opaque, light-blocking tube protects tretinoin from photodegradation. Available in 20g and 45g sizes. The 45g tube offers better value for those using on the face, neck, and décolletage.
Yes — the 20g tube is under 100ml and compliant with carry-on liquid restrictions for most airlines. Keep in a cool, shaded spot in your travel bag and away from direct sunlight during transit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Tretinoin is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category X, meaning it has demonstrated teratogenic (birth defect-causing) effects in animal studies and the risks clearly outweigh any potential benefits during pregnancy. Topical tretinoin is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, though at lower levels than oral retinoids. It must be discontinued immediately upon confirmed or suspected pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist regarding breastfeeding safety — most experts recommend avoiding all retinoids while nursing as a precaution.
No. Taro's tretinoin cream contains Isopropyl Myristate — a fatty acid ester that can serve as a lipid food source for Malassezia yeast, potentially triggering or worsening fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider switching to a tretinoin gel formulation (Taro also makes a gel), as gel bases typically use a water-alcohol base without fatty esters. The active tretinoin itself has no negative impact on fungal acne — it's specifically the cream base that is the concern.
Use with caution and never on the same night. Combining tretinoin with AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or benzoyl peroxide on the same evening dramatically increases irritation, redness, and barrier disruption. These ingredients work through similar skin-renewal mechanisms, so layering them compounds sensitivity without proportionally compounding benefits. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is best used in the morning, not alongside tretinoin at night. Niacinamide is generally compatible with tretinoin and can actually help reduce the redness associated with retinoid use.
Tretinoin 0.05% is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types that have already built tolerance to the 0.025% strength. Oily skin types tend to tolerate tretinoin best due to naturally more resilient barrier function. Dry and sensitive skin types can use this concentration, but the adjustment period will be more significant and the sandwich method (moisturizer before and after) is strongly recommended. Those with severe rosacea, active eczema, or extremely reactive skin should consult a dermatologist before starting at 0.05%.
Clinical data and user reports suggest a timeline of 6–12 weeks for meaningful visible improvement, though this varies by concern. For acne: expect 6–8 weeks before seeing significant clearing (with purging possible in weeks 2–6). For hyperpigmentation and dark spots: 8–12 weeks for noticeable fading. For fine lines and anti-aging: at least 6 weeks per WIMJ analysis, with more dramatic improvements appearing at 3–6 months as deeper collagen remodeling accumulates. Long-term users with years of consistent use report the most impressive cumulative results. Patience is essential — tretinoin is a long-term investment, not an overnight fix.
Tretinoin is applied at night (PM routine only) after cleansing and allowing the skin to dry completely (20–30 minutes). The general order is: Gentle Cleanser → Optional Hydrating Toner → Optional Humectant Serum (HA/glycerin) → Tretinoin Cream (pea-size) → Wait 5–10 min → Fragrance-Free Moisturizer. In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ before going outside. Never apply tretinoin in the morning — UV exposure after application significantly increases photosensitivity risk. Do not use any AHA/BHA/benzoyl peroxide on the same night as tretinoin.
The comedogenic rating is 3/5, primarily due to Isopropyl Myristate in the cream base, which carries a comedogenic rating of 3–5 depending on concentration. This is somewhat counterintuitive, as tretinoin itself is one of the most effective anti-comedogenic treatments. However, the emollient vehicle used to deliver the active can theoretically contribute to clogged pores in very pore-prone individuals. If you're concerned, the gel formulation uses a lighter, non-comedogenic base. In practice, the anti-comedogenic effect of the tretinoin active typically outweighs the mild comedogenic potential of the base at normal use quantities (pea-sized amount).
The period after opening (PAO) is approximately 12 months. Tretinoin is light-sensitive and heat-sensitive — the aluminum tube packaging protects it from photodegradation, but you should still store it away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use. The 20g tube provides roughly 40–80 applications at a pea-sized amount (assuming face-only use), which translates to 1.5–2.5 months of nightly use, or up to 5 months if using every other night. The 45g tube is better value for those applying to the face, neck, and décolletage.
Verdict: Taro 0.05% Tretinoin Cream is a highly effective, affordable, and clinically validated prescription retinoid that delivers on every promise tretinoin has to offer — acne clearance, anti-aging, hyperpigmentation reduction, and long-term skin renewal. It earns its 4.5-star rating through decades of science, not marketing. The minimalist 9-ingredient formula keeps unnecessary additives out of the way of the star active. The only meaningful drawbacks are the expected challenges of any tretinoin cream: prescription access barriers, the initial purging phase, mandatory SPF compliance, and the Isopropyl Myristate base that makes it unsuitable for confirmed fungal acne cases. For those who have built tretinoin tolerance at 0.025% and are ready to step up, or for experienced users seeking an affordable generic alternative to Retin-A,Taro 0.05% is the clear choice — identical efficacy to the brand name, at a fraction of the cost.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Myristate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-3 Stearate
Humectant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sorbic Acid
Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|