0.1% Cream
0.1% Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Dermatologist-recommended OTC retinoid cream featuring adapalene 0.1% — the same prescription-strength active ingredient trusted by dermatologists for over 25 years. Formulated by Galderma in a gentle aqueous cream base, Differin 0.1% Cream normalizes skin cell turnover to clear existing acne, prevent new breakouts, minimize blackheads and whiteheads, and visibly improve skin texture and tone over time.
Third-Generation Retinoid
Adapalene selectively binds to retinoic acid receptors RAR-β and RAR-γ, delivering targeted action on follicular keratinization and inflammation with significantly less irritation than older retinoids like tretinoin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYThird-Generation Retinoid
Adapalene selectively binds to retinoic acid receptors RAR-β and RAR-γ, delivering targeted action on follicular keratinization and inflammation with significantly less irritation than older retinoids like tretinoin.
Clinically Proven — Up to 87% Reduction
In a landmark clinical study, Differin reduced total acne lesion count by up to 87% after 12 weeks of daily use. Adapalene has been prescribed to over 40 million patients worldwide over 25+ years.
No Prescription Required
Since 2016, the FDA approved adapalene 0.1% as the first new OTC active ingredient for acne in more than 30 years, making prescription-strength retinoid therapy accessible without a doctor's visit.
Cream Base — More Moisturizing Than Gel
Unlike the gel formulation, the cream base contains squalane and glycerin, providing additional hydration and making it better suited to those who find the gel too drying or irritating during retinoid introduction.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAdapalene is a retinoid. Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy due to risk of teratogenicity. The EU prescribing information states "DO NOT use Differin if you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant." Discontinue immediately if pregnancy occurs.
It is unknown whether adapalene is excreted in human milk. The UK PIL states it can be used while breastfeeding if application to the chest is avoided. However, most physicians recommend caution — consult your healthcare provider before use.
The cream formulation contains Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate and PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate — fatty acid esters that may feed Malassezia yeast. Those with active fungal acne should consider the gel formulation instead, which has a simpler, FA-safer base.
Adapalene accelerates cell turnover, making skin more susceptible to UV damage. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable when using this product. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds during treatment.
As adapalene accelerates cell turnover, congestion trapped deep in pores is expelled faster, temporarily worsening breakouts in weeks 1–4. This purging phase is normal and not a sign the product is wrong for your skin. Persistence is key.
Contains no added fragrance or essential oils, making it suitable for fragrance-sensitive individuals. The product has no detectable scent when applied.
Galderma rates Differin as non-comedogenic. Key inactive ingredients including carbomer, glycerin, and squalane all carry low comedogenic ratings (0–1). This product is suitable for acne-prone skin.
Do not layer with AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), vitamin C, or benzoyl peroxide in the same application until skin has acclimated (usually 4–8 weeks). If using benzoyl peroxide, apply it in the morning and Differin at night.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAdapalene 0.1%Proven
The star active ingredient — a synthetic third-generation retinoid developed specifically to deliver the benefits of vitamin A derivatives with superior tolerability. Unlike tretinoin, adapalene is photo-stable (does not degrade in light) and has high receptor selectivity, meaning it works precisely where needed with less collateral irritation.
- Mechanism: Selectively binds retinoic acid receptors RAR-β and RAR-γ in follicular epithelium, normalizing abnormal keratinization that leads to clogged pores.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits arachidonic acid oxidation pathways, directly reducing redness and swelling associated with inflammatory acne lesions.
- Clinical data: In a 12-week vehicle-controlled trial, adapalene 0.1% cream produced statistically significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions (p < 0.001).
- Versus tretinoin: Studies show adapalene 0.1% reduces total acne count faster than tretinoin 0.025%, with significantly better local tolerability (Cunliffe et al., 1998).
- Anti-aging potential: 0.3% adapalene concentration has shown significant reduction in forehead, periorbital, and perioral wrinkles at 6 months, with benefits also seen anecdotally at 0.1%.
- Systemic absorption: Negligible — no quantifiable plasma levels detected in pharmacokinetic studies with 2g applied to 1,000 cm² of acne-affected skin.
Glycerin VariableProven
A skin-identical humectant that draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum. Glycerin is a natural component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and plays a crucial role in offsetting the dryness and transepidermal water loss associated with retinoid use.
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — completely non-comedogenic, safe for all skin types.
- Barrier function: Helps maintain healthy lipid organization between skin cells, protecting against external irritants.
- Retinoid synergy: Significantly reduces the drying side effects of adapalene, making the cream formulation more comfortable during the initial adjustment period.
Squalane VariableProven
A plant-derived, hydrogenated version of squalene — a lipid naturally produced by human sebaceous glands (comprising ~13% of human sebum). Squalane is one of the most elegant emollient ingredients available: non-greasy, non-comedogenic, and deeply compatible with skin biology. It reinforces the skin's moisture barrier without causing breakouts.
- Source: This formulation specifies "natural squalane," derived from plant sources (typically sugarcane or olive), not shark liver oil.
- Comedogenicity: 0–1/5 — widely considered safe for acne-prone skin.
- Barrier repair: Integrates into the intercellular lipid matrix to reduce transepidermal water loss — especially important during retinoid-induced barrier disruption.
- Stability advantage: Unlike squalene, squalane has no double bonds, making it oxidation-resistant and stable in formulations without rancidity risk.
PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate & Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate VariablePromising
A complementary pair of corn-sugar derived emulsifiers — one water-loving (PEG-20) and one oil-loving — that work together to stabilize the oil-in-water cream emulsion. They create a light, satiny skin feel and are considered safe and gentle, suitable for sensitive skin formulations.
- Function: Primary emulsifying system that keeps the aqueous cream base stable and gives the cream its smooth, non-tacky application feel.
- Sensitivity profile: Generally well-tolerated; considered mild enough for eye-area and sensitive skin formulations.
Phenoxyethanol + Methylparaben + Propylparaben <1%Proven
A dual-system preservative blend combining phenoxyethanol (a broad-spectrum modern preservative) with the classic paraben pair. Together, these ensure the product remains free from bacterial and fungal contamination throughout its shelf life. All three are used at very low concentrations well within global safety limits.
- Phenoxyethanol: Used up to 1% worldwide; not a paraben; thermally stable up to 85°C; effective across a wide pH range (3–10).
- Parabens: Among the most extensively studied cosmetic preservatives with a strong safety record; used here at concentrations far below regulatory limits.
- Allergic potential: The UK PIL notes these may cause delayed allergic reactions in a small subset of users. Patch test if you have known preservative sensitivities.
13 ingredients total
Active: Adapalene 0.1%
Inactive: Carbomer 934P, Cyclomethicone, Edetate Disodium, Glycerin, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Methylparaben, PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Phenoxyethanol, Propylparaben, Purified Water, Squalane, Trolamine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Differin Cream at night only (PM routine). Waiting 20–30 minutes after cleansing for skin to fully dry reduces irritation significantly. Skip AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C on the same application until skin has acclimated. Always apply SPF the following morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Use a mild, non-stripping cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Avoid scrubs, cleansing brushes, or harsh foaming cleansers that can compromise skin barrier — this matters more than ever when starting a retinoid.
Pat Dry — Then Wait 20–30 Minutes
Gently pat skin dry with a clean towel. Allow your skin to fully dry and reach its normal pH before applying Differin. Applying to damp skin dramatically increases product penetration and the likelihood of irritation. Set a timer if needed.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense approximately a pea-sized amount (0.5g) onto your fingertip. This is enough for the entire face. Applying more does not accelerate results — it only increases the risk of redness, peeling, and irritation. Spread evenly across affected areas, avoiding eyes, nostrils, and lips.
Follow With Moisturizer
Apply a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free moisturizer over the top to seal in hydration and buffer irritation. Look for ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and La Roche-Posay Toleriane are popular pairings.
Apply SPF Every Morning — Without Exception
Adapalene increases photosensitivity. Skipping sunscreen not only risks UV damage but actively undermines the results you're working toward. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 minimum daily, regardless of weather or whether you'll be indoors.
Start Slowly — Every Other Night for 2 Weeks
If you are new to retinoids, apply Differin every other night during the first two weeks. Once skin has acclimated (reduced redness, peeling, tightness), increase to nightly use. "Retinoid buffering" (applying moisturizer first, then Differin, then moisturizer) can also reduce initial irritation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with persistent comedonal acne (blackheads, whiteheads) or inflammatory papules and pustules
- You want prescription-strength retinoid results without a dermatologist appointment
- You have oily or combination skin that tolerates actives reasonably well
- You find the gel formulation too drying and want a more moisturizing retinoid base
- You are ready to commit to 12+ weeks of consistent daily use
- You have acne-related post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) you want to fade
- You are 12 years of age or older with mild-to-moderate facial, chest, or back acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — the cream base contains stearate esters
- You have severe, nodular, or cystic acne that requires prescription-strength combination therapy or isotretinoin
- You have rosacea, eczema, or perioral dermatitis — retinoids can aggravate these conditions
- You need fast, visible results within 2–3 weeks
- Your skin is currently sunburned, abraded, or acutely irritated — do not apply to compromised skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal candidate. Adapalene regulates sebum-driven follicular keratinization. The cream base is richer than the gel but still lightweight enough for oily skin. Can pair with a lighter, oil-free moisturizer.
The cream formulation is the better Differin option for dry skin vs. the gel, thanks to glycerin and squalane. However, retinoid-induced dryness and peeling can still be challenging. A rich, barrier-repair moisturizer is essential. Introduce very gradually.
A strong match. Adapalene addresses the congestion and breakouts common in T-zone areas while the cream's moisturizing base supports drier cheek zones. Great balance of treatment and hydration.
Achievable with a very slow introduction (once or twice per week to start). The cream base is more forgiving than the gel. Avoid combining with any other actives until fully acclimated. Patch test first and prioritize barrier support with a rich moisturizer.
The gold-standard OTC option for acne-prone skin. Tackles the root cause of acne (abnormal follicular keratinization) rather than just surface symptoms. Non-comedogenic formula rated 1/5 — safe for regular use on breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 6+Adjustment & Possible Purging
Skin begins adjusting to accelerated cell turnover. Many users experience temporary purging — buried congestion being expelled faster. Mild dryness, flaking, redness, and tightness are common. This is not an allergic reaction; it is the expected retinoid adaptation phase. Moisturize generously and resist the urge to quit.
~70% experience initial adjustment symptomsPurging Subsides — First Subtle Improvements
Irritation begins to decrease for most users as skin builds retinoid tolerance. Some users begin to notice a subtle reduction in new breakout frequency and the beginnings of a smoother skin texture. Skin may still appear dull as the new cell cycle is establishing. Perseverance at this stage is critical.
~40% notice first improvements in textureVisible Reduction in Acne Lesions
Significant reduction in both inflammatory papules/pustules and non-inflammatory blackheads/whiteheads becomes visible for the majority of users. Skin texture begins to feel noticeably smoother. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots from old breakouts) may begin to fade as cell turnover accelerates pigment dispersal.
~60% report significant improvementClinical Milestone — Up to 87% Lesion Reduction
This is the clinically validated timepoint for Differin's results. Studies show up to 87% reduction in total acne lesion count. Skin tone becomes more even, pores appear more refined, and the skin's overall texture and clarity are transformed. PIH from previous acne continues to improve steadily.
~87% average lesion reduction (Cunliffe et al., 1998)Long-Term Benefits & Anti-Aging Effects
With continued use beyond 3 months, skin maintains its clarity and progressively shows anti-aging benefits: fine lines soften, skin density increases, and collagen production is stimulated. Long-term users often describe their skin as genuinely transformed — clearer, firmer, and more even-toned than before starting treatment.
Long-term users report sustained clarity + skin quality improvementsRatings by platform
50K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only FDA-approved OTC retinoid for acne — no prescription needed
- Clinically proven: up to 87% lesion reduction in 12 weeks
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic — suitable for acne-prone skin
- Cream base is more moisturizing and comfortable than gel formulation
- Works on blackheads, whiteheads, AND inflammatory acne simultaneously
- Photo-stable — does not degrade in light like tretinoin
- Long-term anti-aging, pore-minimizing, and texture-refining benefits
- Backed by 25+ years of clinical use and 40+ million patients worldwide
- Fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time
- Readily available at most drugstores and major retailers
Criticized
- Purging phase (weeks 1–4) can significantly worsen acne and deter users
- Requires 12+ weeks before seeing full results — not for impatient users
- Dramatically increases photosensitivity — daily SPF is mandatory
- Absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy
- Cream base contains stearate esters — not ideal for fungal acne sufferers
- Contains parabens (methylparaben and propylparaben)
- Cannot be combined with most other actives during adjustment period
- 45g tube provides only ~90-day supply at daily use
- Some users never progress past the irritation phase — skin type dependent
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains the exact same active ingredient (adapalene 0.1%) in a gel base. TARO is a pharmaceutical-grade generic manufactured to FDA standards. The base is simpler (carbomer-based gel rather than cream emulsion) so it may be slightly more drying, but the therapeutic effect is identical. Bonus: paraben-free formulation.
Another pharmacy-grade generic with the identical adapalene 0.1% active ingredient. PanOxyl's formulation is fragrance-free and paraben-free, appealing to those sensitive to preservatives. The gel base is slightly lighter than Differin Cream. Very comparable clinical performance at a lower price point.
Uses hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR), a different retinoid ester that does not require conversion in the skin. Significantly gentler than adapalene — much lower likelihood of purging and irritation. Excellent for retinoid beginners or those who cannot tolerate adapalene, though clinical evidence for acne treatment is less robust than adapalene's established data.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard the tube if texture, color, or consistency changes before this date.
Store at room temperature between 59–77°F (15–25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and freezing temperatures. Do not store in the bathroom if it is frequently hot and humid.
Aluminum tube with screw cap. The tube packaging minimizes air exposure and oxidation. Squeeze from the bottom and roll upward to extend product life and minimize waste.
Yes — 45g / 1.6 oz tube is under the 3.4 oz (100ml) TSA carry-on liquid limit. The screw cap is secure for travel. Consider the 15g tube (30-day supply) for short trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo — Differin 0.1% Cream is not recommended during pregnancy. Adapalene is a retinoid, and retinoids as a class are associated with teratogenic risks. The European prescribing information explicitly states "DO NOT use Differin if you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant." The US labeling categorizes adapalene as Pregnancy Category C, meaning it should only be used if the potential benefit clearly justifies the potential risk to the fetus — in practice, dermatologists almost universally advise against any topical retinoid use during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while using this product, discontinue immediately and consult your doctor. Regarding breastfeeding, the UK PIL states it may be used while breastfeeding provided application to the chest is avoided to prevent infant contact exposure. However, given that systemic absorption of adapalene is negligible (no detectable plasma levels), the risk is considered very low — but always consult your healthcare provider before use while nursing.
Exercise caution. Unlike Differin Gel — which has a simple, fungal acne-safe base — the Differin 0.1% Cream contains Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate and PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate. These are stearic acid-derived fatty acid esters, and Malassezia yeast is known to metabolize fatty acids with carbon chain lengths C11–C24 (stearic acid is C18). This means the cream base could potentially feed Malassezia and worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you have active fungal acne or suspect you are prone to it, we recommend choosing the Differin Gel formulation (or a generic adapalene gel) instead, which has a carbomer-based aqueous gel that does not contain these esters.
Proceed carefully and not simultaneously. During the first 4–8 weeks of use while your skin is acclimating to adapalene, avoid layering other potent actives (AHAs like glycolic/lactic acid, BHAs like salicylic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide above 5%, or retinol) in the same PM routine. Combining multiple actives too soon is the most common cause of severe retinoid-related irritation. Once your skin has acclimated (no more dryness, peeling, or redness), you can cautiously reintroduce other actives — but on alternating nights rather than the same application. If you use benzoyl peroxide, apply it in the morning and Differin strictly at night. Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated with adapalene and can actually help reduce the redness caused by retinoid use. Always listen to your skin.
Differin 0.1% Cream is best suited to oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Within the Differin line, the cream formulation is specifically the better choice over the gel for those with normal-to-dry or sensitive skin, because the cream base includes hydrating and emollient ingredients (glycerin, squalane) that help offset retinoid-induced dryness. It is less ideal for very dry skin in isolation, as retinoids inherently increase transepidermal water loss — a rich moisturizer must always be used alongside it. It is rated non-comedogenic with an overall comedogenic score of 1/5, making it appropriate for acne-prone individuals. Those with rosacea, active eczema, or perioral dermatitis should consult a dermatologist before use, as retinoids can exacerbate these conditions.
Expect a minimum of 8–12 weeks of consistent daily use before seeing the full extent of Differin's results. The clinical milestone is 12 weeks, where studies document up to 87% reduction in total acne lesion count. The timeline typically unfolds as follows: weeks 1–2 bring adjustment and possible purging (acne may temporarily worsen); weeks 3–4 see purging subside and early texture improvements; weeks 6–8 bring visible acne reduction and smoother skin; and at 12 weeks, skin clarity and texture are significantly transformed. With continued use beyond 3 months, anti-aging and pore-minimizing benefits continue to develop. Patience is the single most important factor — users who quit during the purging phase miss out on the results that committed users see. Retinoids are a long-game investment, not a spot treatment.
Differin 0.1% Cream is applied as step 4 in your PM (nighttime) routine, after cleansing and toning but before moisturizer. The recommended sequence is: (1) gentle cleanser → (2) optional toner → (3) wait 20–30 minutes for skin to fully dry → (4) apply pea-sized amount of Differin → (5) follow with moisturizer. The waiting step is particularly important: applying Differin to damp skin significantly increases penetration and the risk of irritation. In the morning, add SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen as your final step — this is non-negotiable when using any retinoid. Do not apply Differin in the morning or immediately before sun exposure. Avoid any other active treatments (AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C) in the same PM application until your skin has fully acclimated.
No — Differin 0.1% Cream is rated non-comedogenic by Galderma and carries an overall comedogenic score of approximately 1 out of 5. None of the key ingredients are high-comedogenic offenders: glycerin (0/5), squalane (0–1/5), carbomer 934P (0/5), and cyclomethicone (1/5) all rate very low. The active ingredient adapalene itself is not comedogenic and in fact works by preventing follicular keratinization — the very process that forms comedones. This makes Differin an excellent choice for acne-prone skin. Additionally, Differin is oil-free, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free, eliminating several common pore-aggravating ingredients found in other topical treatments.
Differin 0.1% Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 45g tube contains approximately a 90-day supply at the recommended daily use of a pea-sized amount (~0.5g per application). At every-other-night use during the adjustment phase, the tube will last around 5–6 months. The aluminum tube packaging and screw cap help protect the product from air oxidation. Store at room temperature (59–77°F / 15–25°C) away from heat, sunlight, and humidity. Discard the tube if you notice changes in color, texture, or smell before the 12-month mark, or if the expiration date printed on the packaging has passed.
Verdict: Differin 0.1% Cream is the gold standard in over-the-counter retinoid skincare — and for good reason. It delivers prescription-strength adapalene with a gentler cream base that makes the retinoid journey more accessible, particularly for those who find the gel too drying. Backed by decades of clinical research, 40+ million patients worldwide, and an FDA approval milestone as the first new OTC acne active in over 30 years, this is one of the most evidence-based choices available without a prescription. The commitment required — 12+ weeks, mandatory SPF, careful introduction, and patience through purging — is real and not for everyone. Those who stick with it, however, consistently report genuinely transformed skin: fewer breakouts, smoother texture, reduced PIH, and increasingly, anti-aging benefits that continue long after acne is under control. Not suitable for pregnancy or those with active fungal acne (consider the gel). For everyone else ready to invest in a proven active: few products can match Differin's track record.
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 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|