10% Niacinamide Serum For Acne Marks
10% Niacinamide Serum For Acne Marks
Product Description
Product overview
The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum is a high-potency, dermatologist-formulated serum powered by 10% Niacinamide and 2% Zinc PCA — a clinically proven duo that visibly fades acne marks, controls excess sebum, minimizes enlarged pores, and evens out skin tone. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and suitable for all skin types, it's one of India's most-reviewed niacinamide serums with over 50,000 user ratings across platforms.
Fades Acne Marks & Dark Spots
10% Niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer to skin cells, visibly reducing post-acne hyperpigmentation, PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), and dark spots with consistent use.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFades Acne Marks & Dark Spots
10% Niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer to skin cells, visibly reducing post-acne hyperpigmentation, PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), and dark spots with consistent use.
Controls Oil & Sebum Production
The synergistic combination of Niacinamide and 2% Zinc PCA regulates excess sebum, reducing shine and keeping skin balanced without drying it out.
Minimizes Enlarged Pores
By normalizing sebum and improving skin texture, regular use helps tighten and refine the appearance of enlarged pores for a smoother complexion.
Strengthens Skin Barrier
Niacinamide boosts ceramide production, reinforcing the skin's natural protective barrier to retain moisture, defend against environmental stressors, and reduce sensitivity.
Brightens & Evens Skin Tone
By inhibiting excess melanin production and supporting cell renewal, this serum works to create a more uniform, radiant complexion over time.
Hydrates Without Heaviness
Glycerin and Sodium Gluconate deliver lightweight hydration that plumps skin without clogging pores, making it ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or unsafe chemical actives. Niacinamide is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your dermatologist for personalized advice.
The formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe by ingredient analysis.
No pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients in the formula. Glycerin and Propylene Glycol are rated 0 on the comedogenic scale. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Preservative system uses Phenoxyethanol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Ethylhexylglycerin, and Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate — no parabens or sulfates in the formula.
The formula includes Parfum (fragrance), which may cause irritation for individuals with highly sensitive skin or known fragrance allergies. Perform a patch test before first use.
10% is on the higher end for niacinamide serums. First-time users with sensitive skin may experience mild redness or tingling during the initial 1–2 weeks of use. Start with once-daily application to build tolerance.
Safe to use alongside Vitamin C serums, but recommended to apply Vitamin C in the morning and this Niacinamide serum in the evening to maximize benefits and avoid any potential interaction.
Niacinamide pairs well with chemical exfoliants to enhance post-exfoliation barrier recovery. Use the exfoliant first, allow skin to fully dry, then apply this serum for best results.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide 10%Proven
The hero active in this serum. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is second on the ingredient list, confirming a genuine high-concentration formula. It converts to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) in skin cells — a coenzyme that powers barrier repair, melanin regulation, sebum control, and collagen support.
- Fades Pigmentation: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, reducing post-acne marks and dark spots.
- Pore Refinement: Normalizes follicular keratinization, helping reduce visible pore size with regular use.
- Sebum Regulation: Clinically reduces sebum excretion rate; studies demonstrate measurable improvement at 2–5% concentrations, with compounding effects at 10%.
- Barrier Strengthening: Boosts ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis in the stratum corneum, improving TEWL (transepidermal water loss).
- Anti-Inflammatory: Suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines, soothing acne-related redness and irritation.
Zinc PCA ~2%Proven
A synergistic combination of Zinc (antimicrobial) and L-PCA (a natural moisturizing factor). Zinc PCA is especially valued in acne-prone and oily skin formulations for its dual action: it reduces sebum production while simultaneously hydrating the skin through the NMF (natural moisturizing factor) component.
- Antimicrobial: In-vitro studies show Zinc PCA has strong anti-microbial activity against P. acnes bacteria at concentrations of 0.1–0.25%.
- Sebum Control: In-vivo testing by ingredient manufacturers shows statistically significant reduction in sebum production after 28 days at 1% concentration.
- Skin Hydration: The PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) component is an NMF that supports skin hydration and energy processes.
- Enhanced Bioavailability: PCA increases the efficacy and skin absorption of Zinc, making this combination more effective than zinc alone.
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. Glycerin supports the skin's natural lipid structure between cells, aids barrier repair, and protects against irritation. A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid in certain conditions.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0/5 — does not clog pores.
- Effective Concentration: Benefits skin from as low as 3%, with more significant dry skin benefits at 20–40%.
- Barrier Support: Keeps skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state for optimal barrier function.
Propylene Glycol ~2–4%Proven
A multifunctional ingredient acting as a humectant, penetration enhancer, and antimicrobial. It helps active ingredients like Niacinamide absorb more efficiently into the skin while also extending product shelf life. Despite controversy in natural beauty circles, it is widely regarded as safe and effective by cosmetic scientists and toxicology experts.
- Penetration Enhancement: Increases the skin absorption rate of active ingredients, improving overall efficacy.
- Stabilizer: Prevents the product from freezing or melting in extreme temperatures.
Ethoxydiglycol ~1–2%Promising
A synthetic solvent and superior penetration enhancer used to boost the delivery of active ingredients such as Niacinamide into deeper skin layers. Also used as a co-solvent to maintain formula stability and even distribution of ingredients throughout the product.
- Efficacy Booster: Recognized by manufacturers as a superior solubilizer for key skincare actives.
- Uniform Distribution: Helps ensure even delivery of actives across the skin surface.
Phenoxyethanol ≤1%Proven
The primary preservative in this formula. Phenoxyethanol is a well-established, globally approved preservative with germicidal and antimicrobial properties. It's considered a safe, gentler alternative to parabens, approved for use up to 1% worldwide. Introduced around 1950, it's also naturally found in green tea.
- Broad Spectrum: Prevents microbial contamination across a wide range of organisms.
- Safety Profile: Extensively studied and approved by regulatory authorities globally at ≤1% concentrations.
15 ingredients
Water, Niacinamide, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Zinc PCA, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Parfum, Diazolidinyl Urea, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on clean, dry skin. Always follow with moisturizer. Use SPF in the morning — niacinamide does not increase sun sensitivity, but daily sun protection is key to preventing new marks.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat skin dry. If using a toner, apply it first and allow it to absorb before applying the serum.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Shake lightly if needed, then dispense 2–3 drops of serum onto your fingertips or directly onto your face and neck.
Apply & Massage Gently
Using gentle upward strokes, apply the serum across your entire face and neck. Avoid the immediate eye area. Pat — don't rub — to maximize absorption.
Follow with Moisturizer
Once the serum has absorbed (usually under 30 seconds), apply your regular moisturizer to seal in the actives and maintain hydration levels.
Apply SPF in the Morning
Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) as the final step of your morning routine. Sun protection is essential to prevent new acne marks from forming.
Frequency: Twice Daily
Use morning and evening for best results. If you have sensitive skin, start with once daily (evening) for the first 1–2 weeks before increasing frequency.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin
- You want to fade post-acne marks, PIH, or dark spots
- You're dealing with enlarged pores and excess shine
- You're building your first serious skincare routine
- You want a high-concentration niacinamide at an affordable price
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe actives
- You have fungal acne and need a safe serum option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have extreme fragrance sensitivity (contains Parfum)
- You have very dry skin needing richer, occlusive actives
- You're looking for anti-aging as the primary concern (consider adding peptides)
- You've previously reacted to Propylene Glycol or Diazolidinyl Urea
- You need a completely fragrance-free clinical formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. Niacinamide + Zinc PCA directly target excess sebum, shine, and enlarged pores. Absorbs instantly without adding greasiness.
Tackles acne at multiple angles: reduces P. acnes activity, regulates sebum, calms inflammation, and fades post-acne marks. Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe.
Balances the T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Lightweight texture performs well across different facial zones simultaneously.
Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated, but the 10% concentration and presence of Parfum warrant a patch test first. Start with once-daily use and build up.
Glycerin and Sodium Gluconate provide lightweight hydration. However, dry skin types may need a richer moisturizer on top to prevent any tightness, especially in winter.
Works beautifully as a preventative and maintenance serum for normal skin. Supports barrier function, evens tone, and helps keep pores clear.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12+Oil Control & Texture Improvement
Most users notice a reduction in midday shine and excess oiliness within the first two weeks. Skin texture begins to feel smoother and less congested as sebum production starts to normalize.
78% noticedPore Refinement & Reduced Breakouts
Pores begin to appear smaller and less visible as follicular keratinization improves. Many users report fewer active breakouts and a reduction in new blemishes forming due to antimicrobial action of Zinc PCA.
65% noticedAcne Mark Fading & Brighter Skin Tone
Post-acne marks (PIH), red spots, and uneven skin tone begin to visibly fade as niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer. Skin appears noticeably more radiant, even, and luminous at this stage.
70% noticedSignificant Tone Correction & Barrier Strengthening
Long-term use delivers compounding benefits including substantial reduction in hyperpigmentation, improved skin elasticity from increased ceramide production, and a noticeably stronger, more resilient skin barrier.
85% noticedRatings by platform
54K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Genuinely high 10% niacinamide concentration confirmed by ingredient listing position
- Affordable price point — excellent value for money
- Fast-absorbing, non-greasy, lightweight texture
- Noticeably reduces shine and controls sebum
- Dermatologist tested and formulated
- Pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic
- Visible acne mark fading in 4–8 weeks
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive
- Over 50,000 verified reviews across major platforms
Criticized
- Contains Parfum — not fully fragrance-free
- 10% concentration may cause mild initial tingling for sensitive users
- Small 30ml bottle size — goes quickly with twice-daily use
- Some users experience initial skin dryness in week 1–2
- Budget packaging (glass dropper or simple bottle) — not premium feel
- Contains Diazolidinyl Urea preservative, a formaldehyde-releasing agent at very low concentrations
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical active concept — 10% niacinamide with zinc PCA — at a similar price. The Ordinary's formula is fragrance-free (no Parfum) and has a slightly more minimal ingredient list. Texture is very similar gel serum. Main difference: lower zinc concentration (1% vs 2%) and no glycerin or sodium gluconate for extra hydration. Best fragrance-free alternative.
Another Indian brand offering 10% niacinamide with added zinc and hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. Formula is more hydrating than The Derma Co version, making it better for dry or dehydrated skin. Fragrance-free. Slightly richer texture. A good dupe if you want more moisture in the same step.
A K-beauty option at 15% niacinamide — higher concentration with added peptides and ceramides for anti-aging synergy. More premium formula in a larger bottle. Better suited for mature or barrier-compromised skin. Not a direct budget dupe, but worth considering if you want a more comprehensive niacinamide serum with anti-aging support.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if you notice changes in color, smell, or texture before that time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid bathroom storage if humidity is high. Room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F) is ideal.
Compact glass dropper or pump bottle (30ml). Dropper design minimizes product contamination and allows precise dosing. Packaging is practical though not premium in appearance.
Yes — 30ml bottle is within the 100ml TSA/airline liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Compact size is ideal for travel routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens that are commonly contraindicated during pregnancy. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a water-soluble vitamin that is generally regarded as safe. However, as with all skincare products during pregnancy, it is always best practice to consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before starting or continuing any new skincare active. The mild fragrance (Parfum) is present at low levels, but if you prefer to completely minimize fragrance exposure during pregnancy, consider The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% as a fragrance-free alternative.
Yes, The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum is fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or problematic oils that feed Malassezia yeast — the organism responsible for fungal acne. All 15 ingredients have been verified against the standard fungal acne safe checklist. Niacinamide is actually beneficial for fungal acne-prone skin due to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating properties, which help reduce the oily environment in which Malassezia thrives.
Yes, niacinamide is compatible with all of these actives, but timing matters. With Vitamin C: Use Vitamin C in the morning and this Niacinamide serum in the evening to maximize each active's benefits — at high concentrations, niacinamide and pure L-ascorbic acid Vitamin C can potentially interact. With Retinol: Niacinamide pairs well with retinol and can actually help buffer retinol-related irritation. Apply the niacinamide serum before or after retinol. With AHA/BHA: Niacinamide is excellent for supporting skin barrier recovery post-exfoliation. Apply the exfoliant first, allow skin to dry, then apply this serum. Daily niacinamide use alongside 2–3x weekly chemical exfoliation is a very effective combination for acne marks.
This serum is most effective for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types, where its sebum-regulating and anti-blemish properties deliver the most noticeable results. It is also suitable for normal skin as a preventative and maintenance serum. Dry skin types can use it, but will need a richer moisturizer applied immediately after to counterbalance the potentially matte finish. Sensitive skin types should perform a patch test first and start with once-daily use due to the high 10% niacinamide concentration and presence of Parfum. All skin types dealing with post-acne marks or uneven tone will benefit from the pigmentation-fading properties.
Results appear in stages with consistent twice-daily use. Most users notice oil control and texture improvements within the first 1–2 weeks. Visible pore refinement and fewer breakouts typically emerge by weeks 3–4. Acne mark fading and a more even skin tone become noticeable between weeks 4–8. The most significant long-term benefits — including substantial tone correction and a stronger skin barrier — develop after 8–12 weeks of regular use. For best and fastest results, pair this serum with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning, as UV exposure is the primary factor that darkens and prolongs post-acne marks.
This serum belongs in the serum step of your routine, applied after cleansing and toning but before moisturizer. The recommended order is: (1) Cleanser → (2) Toner → (3) This Niacinamide Serum → (4) Eye Cream (if used) → (5) Moisturizer → (6) Sunscreen (morning only). As a water-based serum, it should be applied before any oils, cream serums, or heavy moisturizers. If layering multiple serums, apply this one first as it is the most lightweight. Allow it to absorb for 20–30 seconds before the next step. Use both morning and evening for optimal results.
No, this serum is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients. The two primary moisturizing ingredients — Glycerin and Propylene Glycol — are both rated 0 on the comedogenic scale, meaning they are extremely unlikely to block pores. In fact, the combination of Niacinamide and Zinc PCA in this serum actively works to reduce pore visibility by normalizing sebum production and improving follicular keratinization. It is specifically formulated for acne-prone and oily skin types, making pore-clogging an extremely unlikely concern.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With twice-daily use of 2–3 drops per application, the 30ml bottle typically lasts approximately 2–3 months. To maximize shelf life, store the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and avoid contaminating the dropper tip by touching it to the skin. If you notice any changes in color, consistency, or scent before the 12-month mark, discontinue use. The 30ml size makes it travel-friendly and within airline carry-on liquid limits (under 100ml).
Verdict: The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum is one of the most compelling value propositions in the niacinamide serum category. It delivers a genuinely high-concentration, dermatologist-developed formula with 10% Niacinamide and 2% Zinc PCA — two clinically supported actives for oily, acne-prone skin — at a price that remains accessible. With over 50,000 user reviews confirming real-world results for acne mark fading, sebum control, and pore refinement, this serum has earned its reputation as a go-to in both beginner and experienced Indian skincare routines. The only notable caveats are the presence of Parfum (not fully fragrance-free) and a packaging style that doesn't match its clinical efficacy. For oily, combination, or acne-prone skin seeking visible pigmentation improvement and oil control without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice and a strong competitor to international brands at a fraction of the price.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc PCA
|
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|