345 Relief Cream
345 Relief Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight K-beauty gel-cream that combines 3 blemish-relief actives, 4 nourishing ingredients, and 5 botanical soothers to calm redness, fade post-acne marks, and reinforce the skin barrier — all without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. Clinically tested non-comedogenic and vegan-certified, it's your go-to daily moisturizer for sensitive, acne-prone, and post-breakout skin.
3-4-5 Formula System
Uniquely built with 3 blemish-care actives (Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, Oligopeptide-1), 4 nourishing ingredients (Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, Tocopherol, Adenosine), and 5 botanical soothers (Centella Asiatica, Panthenol, Houttuynia Cordata, Calendula, Opuntia Extract).
Texture & feel
SENSORY3-4-5 Formula System
Uniquely built with 3 blemish-care actives (Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, Oligopeptide-1), 4 nourishing ingredients (Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, Tocopherol, Adenosine), and 5 botanical soothers (Centella Asiatica, Panthenol, Houttuynia Cordata, Calendula, Opuntia Extract).
Clinically Proven Hydration
An independent study by the Korea Institute of Dermatological Sciences found skin hydration increased by 177.34% immediately after application, with soothing improvement of 8.88%.
Barrier-Strengthening Ceramide
Contains Ceramide NP at estimated 0.20–0.35%, a skin-identical lipid that reinforces the moisture barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss, and helps prevent future breakouts.
Post-Acne Brightening
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) at an effective concentration works to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, reduce redness, and restore an even, luminous skin tone over time.
Multi-Layer Hydration Complex
Combines Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (smaller molecule), Polyquaternium-51, Fructooligosaccharides, and Glycerin for deep, sustained moisture at multiple skin layers.
18+ Botanical Extracts
Powered by a rich botanical complex including Centella Asiatica, Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata), Calendula, Turmeric, Lavender Flower Extract, Evening Primrose, Hibiscus, and Agave — all chosen for calming and antioxidant properties.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All botanical extracts are at trace cosmetic concentrations. Considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding — always consult your healthcare provider.
The formula does not contain problematic fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, or polysorbate derivatives in concentrations known to feed Malassezia. Confirmed FA-safe by SkinSort community analysis.
Clinically tested and certified non-comedogenic. Safe for daily use on acne-prone and congestion-prone skin without risk of pore-clogging.
Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Free from artificial colorants, added fragrance, and parabens — all common irritant triggers for reactive complexions.
Works well as a soothing buffer alongside retinol, AHAs (glycolic, lactic), and BHAs (salicylic acid). The Centella and Ceramide NP help counteract irritation from strong actives.
Contains Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract at a very low, trace level. This is a water-based extract, not the essential oil, but individuals with known lavender sensitivity should patch-test before full application.
The current version 2 (released 2025) features updated actives including PDRN and Niacinamide replacing the older Resveratrol-dominant formula. Some users who loved the original formula may notice a slightly different texture and performance profile.
Contains no denatured alcohol (ethanol) and no essential oils. 1,2-Hexanediol present in formula is a glycol-type solvent/preservative booster — different from drying alcohols and considered non-irritating at typical concentrations.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide ~3–5%Proven
Also known as Vitamin B3, Niacinamide is a multitasking powerhouse positioned as the primary active in this formula. It addresses post-acne marks, barrier health, and shine control simultaneously.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, fading PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and dark spots at 4–5%.
- Barrier support: Stimulates ceramide and fatty acid synthesis in the epidermis, strengthening the skin barrier and improving moisture retention.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces cytokine-induced inflammatory responses, calming redness and sensitivity associated with acne-prone skin.
- Sebum control: Proven to reduce sebum excretion rates, making it beneficial for oily and combination skin types.
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract trace–1%Proven
One of K-beauty's most revered soothing herbs, Centella Asiatica (Cica) delivers a potent cocktail of triterpenoids — madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid — that calm inflammation and support collagen synthesis.
- Anti-inflammatory: Madecassoside specifically inhibits inflammatory pathways, reducing visible redness and reactive flare-ups.
- Wound healing: Multiple clinical studies confirm that Centella extracts accelerate epidermal repair — ideal for post-acne recovery.
- Collagen stimulation: Asiaticoside promotes collagen I and III synthesis, supporting skin firmness and helping reduce the appearance of acne scars over time.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5–1%Proven
A universally well-tolerated humectant and skin-repairing ingredient, Panthenol converts to Pantothenic Acid in the skin and plays a key role in cellular repair and moisture regulation.
- Humectant: Attracts and binds water molecules to the upper epidermis, providing immediate hydration comfort.
- Barrier repair: Supports keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation, strengthening the barrier after damage from breakouts or active ingredients.
- Soothing: Shown in studies to reduce itching, burning, and discomfort — ideal for skin recovering from peels or retinol.
Ceramide NP ~0.20–0.35%Proven
Ceramides are natural lipids that make up approximately 50% of the skin barrier's intercellular matrix. Ceramide NP is a skin-identical ceramide that directly replenishes what acne treatments and harsh cleansers deplete.
- Barrier reinforcement: Fills in lipid gaps in the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 30% in clinical studies.
- Moisture lock: Works synergistically with Sodium Hyaluronate to provide both humectant and occlusive moisture retention.
- Anti-irritant: A healthy ceramide-rich barrier reduces skin's reactivity to environmental aggressors and active ingredients.
Adenosine ~0.15–0.30%Proven
A nucleoside naturally present in all living cells, Adenosine is approved as an official anti-wrinkle active ingredient by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) at ≥0.04%.
- Anti-aging: High-quality clinical trials show Adenosine at low concentrations helps improve the appearance of deep dynamic wrinkles over time.
- Cell communication: Modulates cellular signaling pathways involved in collagen production and wound healing.
Resveratrol tracePromising
A potent polyphenol antioxidant found in grape skin, Resveratrol offers broad-spectrum free radical neutralization and anti-inflammatory activity.
- Antioxidant: Scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) that accelerate skin aging and pigmentation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits NF-κB pathway activation, reducing inflammation-triggered pigmentation.
Sodium Hyaluronate + Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A dual hyaluronic acid system providing hydration at different skin depths. Sodium Hyaluronate (higher MW) hydrates the surface, while Hydrolyzed HA (lower MW) penetrates deeper into the epidermis.
- Dual-depth hydration: The two molecular weights work in tandem to provide surface plumping and deeper moisture retention.
- Plumping effect: HA holds up to 1,000x its weight in water, visibly smoothing fine dehydration lines within minutes of application.
Beta-Glucan tracePromising
A polysaccharide derived from oats or yeast, Beta-Glucan is a powerful soothing and hydrating ingredient that also has immunomodulatory properties particularly beneficial for irritated, post-acne skin.
- Soothing: Activates skin's repair mechanisms and reduces inflammatory cytokine release.
- Moisturizing: Acts as a film-forming humectant, reducing TEWL and providing instant comfort.
Oligopeptide-1 (EGF) ~0.15–0.25%Promising
A synthetic peptide that mimics Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF). It promotes cell renewal and tissue repair, making it a cutting-edge addition to post-acne recovery formulas.
- Cell renewal: Stimulates keratinocyte proliferation, accelerating the natural skin cell turnover cycle.
- Wound healing: Supports epidermal regeneration, particularly in skin recovering from active acne lesions.
56 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Polyglycerin-3, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), Hydrogenated Polydecene, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract, Sargassum Fulvellum Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Perilla Ocymoides Leaf Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Empetrum Nigrum Fruit Juice, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, C14-22 Alcohols, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dipropylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyquaternium-51, Tromethamine, Fructooligosaccharides, Adenosine, Beta-Glucan, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, PEG-40 Castor Oil, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Resveratrol, Tocopherol, Ceramide NP, Oligopeptide-1, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply morning and night as the final cream step before sunscreen (AM) or as the last layer (PM). Use after water-based serums and actives. Can be used as a buffer cream on top of retinol or chemical exfoliants.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser. Pat skin dry and apply your toner and/or serum steps as usual before reaching for the 345 Relief Cream.
Dispense the Right Amount
Squeeze a pea-sized amount (roughly 0.3–0.5 cm from the tube) for normal-to-combination skin, or a slightly larger amount for dry or very dehydrated skin. A little goes a long way with this formula.
Apply & Blend
Dot the cream onto forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Spread evenly with gentle upward strokes, covering the face and neck. The gel-cream texture glides on smoothly without tugging.
Press to Absorb
After spreading, lightly press your palms flat against your face for 5–10 seconds. This "press-in" technique helps the actives penetrate more effectively and speeds up absorption.
Follow with SPF (Morning Only)
In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect the work Niacinamide and skin-brightening actives are doing on your post-acne marks.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin is acne-prone or prone to breakouts and post-acne marks
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin looking for a lightweight moisturizer
- You use strong actives (retinol, AHAs, BHAs) and need a soothing, barrier-repairing cream
- You have sensitive or reactive skin that reacts to fragrances and colorants
- You want a vegan, cruelty-free, clean K-beauty formula
- You're dealing with visible redness, irritation, or an impaired skin barrier
- You prefer a non-greasy, fast-absorbing daily moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs rich, heavy occlusive moisture
- You are looking for a dedicated anti-aging treatment with high-concentration peptides or retinoids
- You want a single-step product to treat active, inflamed acne lesions
- You strongly preferred the older Resveratrol-focused original formula (notable reformulation in 2025)
- You have a known sensitivity to lavender-derived ingredients (trace levels present)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe lightweight, fast-absorbing gel-cream texture won't add shine or greasiness. Niacinamide actively regulates sebum production over time, making this a top pick for oily skin types.
Balances well across the T-zone and drier cheek areas. Lightweight enough not to overload oily zones while providing sufficient hydration where skin is drier.
Clinically tested non-comedogenic with a fungal-acne-safe formula. Niacinamide fades marks, Centella soothes active inflammation, and Ceramide NP repairs the barrier to prevent future breakouts.
Free from fragrance, parabens, and artificial colorants — major wins for reactive skin. Patch-test recommended due to trace lavender flower extract. Generally very well-tolerated.
An ideal everyday moisturizer — provides balanced hydration, antioxidant protection via Resveratrol and Tocopherol, and subtle brightening without over-treating normal, healthy skin.
Provides light-to-medium hydration but may not be sufficient as a standalone moisturizer for very dry skin types. Consider layering under a richer cream or facial oil in drier seasons.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Soothing & Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately calmer, softer, and more comfortable. The fast-absorbing gel-cream texture leaves no heaviness, just a comfortable veil of moisture. Redness and tightness begin to subside.
177% hydration increase measured clinicallyReduced Redness & Calmer Breakouts
With consistent AM/PM use, visible redness around active blemishes and post-acne marks noticeably decreases. Skin feels more balanced and less reactive. The barrier-repair ingredients begin reducing TEWL.
~70% of users notice calmer skinSmoother Texture & Initial Brightening
The Niacinamide begins its brightening work — skin tone appears more even. Skin texture improves as the ceramide complex reinforces the barrier and reduces surface roughness. New breakouts may be less frequent.
~60% notice improved skin toneVisible PIH Fading & Stronger Barrier
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots from old breakouts) fades more visibly as Niacinamide reaches effective cumulative exposure. Skin barrier is measurably stronger, skin feels more resilient and less reactive to external stressors.
~50% report significant mark reductionRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally lightweight — feels like "nothing on the skin"
- Absorbs in seconds, no greasy or heavy residue
- Clinically proven 177% hydration increase on first application
- Non-comedogenic tested — great for acne-prone skin
- Confirmed fungal-acne safe formula
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, vegan certified
- Noticeable redness reduction within 1–2 weeks
- Works well as a buffer cream under/over actives
- Natural dewy finish that improves skin appearance
- Rich botanical ingredient deck (18+ plant extracts)
Criticized
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry or dehydrated skin as a standalone
- Multiple formula reformulations cause inconsistency between versions
- SkinSort Ver.2 (Sep 2025) has polarizing reviews — some report breakouts
- 50ml tube runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Price point ($20–$25) is mid-range; not the most affordable option
- Initial purging possible in the first 1–2 weeks for some users
- Trace lavender flower extract may concern those with known sensitivity
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares the fragrance-free, lightweight gel-cream format with a strong Centella Asiatica focus for soothing. Lacks the Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, and Peptide trio of the 345 but is thinner and more watery. Great for oily, minimalist routines.
Excellent post-acne repair cream with 92% Snail Secretion Filtrate offering hydration, regeneration, and soothing benefits. Different active mechanism but comparable results for post-breakout recovery. Note: not fungal-acne safe (ferment ingredient).
A well-loved fragrance-free, hypoallergenic barrier cream with Panthenol and Madecassoside as key actives. Comparable soothing profile, but lacks Niacinamide for brightening. Slightly richer texture, better for combination-to-dry skin types.
A no-frills, budget-friendly hydrating cream with HA and amino acids for barrier support. Much simpler formula without botanical actives or Niacinamide. Good for those who want pure, straightforward hydration without active ingredients.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Always check the PAO symbol (open jar icon) on your tube for the exact period stated on your batch.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms — a bedroom vanity or cabinet is ideal. Refrigeration is not required but may enhance the soothing, cooling sensation on application.
Comes in a sleek aluminum/metal squeeze tube (50ml). The tube design is hygienic — minimal air exposure extends formula stability compared to jar packaging. Squeeze from the bottom for best dispensing.
Yes — the 50ml tube is under the 100ml TSA/EU carry-on liquid limit. Compact and lightweight for travel. A travel-size 15ml version is also available for even easier portability.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula does not contain retinoids (retinol, retinaldehyde, tretinoin), salicylic acid above 2%, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. All botanical extracts are present at trace cosmetic concentrations. As always, individual sensitivities vary, so we recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding any new skincare product to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes! The 345 Relief Cream is confirmed fungal-acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe by SkinSort's community analysis. The formula avoids problematic fermented filtrates, fatty acid esters, and high-MW polysorbate emulsifiers that are known to feed Malassezia yeasts. The emulsifiers used (Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside) are considered FA-safe at cosmetic concentrations. This makes it an ideal moisturizer for those with fungal acne concerns.
Absolutely — the 345 Relief Cream is specifically praised for its compatibility with strong actives. It works excellently as a "buffer cream" when used alongside retinol, Vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic, lactic), and BHAs (salicylic acid). Its Ceramide NP and Centella Asiatica combination helps counteract irritation and reinforce the barrier while you use these potent ingredients. Apply actives first, then layer the Relief Cream on top. Many users intentionally pair it with their tretinoin or strong exfoliant nights to reduce the risk of over-exfoliation.
The 345 Relief Cream performs best on oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight gel-cream texture delivers excellent hydration without heaviness or shine for these skin types. It also works well for sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, colorant-free formula. For dry or very dehydrated skin, while the cream provides good hydration, it may not be sufficient as a standalone — consider layering it under a richer occlusive cream or facial oil, particularly in winter months.
Results come in stages. Clinically, you can experience a 177% increase in skin hydration and improved soothing immediately on first application. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, most users notice meaningfully calmer redness and more balanced, comfortable skin. Texture improvements and initial brightening from Niacinamide are typically visible by weeks 3–4. The most significant benefits — fading of post-acne marks (PIH) and a measurably stronger skin barrier — develop over 2–3 months of regular use. Patience and consistency are key.
The 345 Relief Cream is your moisturizer step — it belongs after water-based serums and ampoules but before sunscreen in the morning. The routine order is: Cleanser → Toner/Essence → Serum/Ampoule → 345 Relief Cream → Eye Cream (optional) → SPF (AM only). At night, it's your final step after actives. Because it's a gel-cream rather than a heavy occlusive, you can layer a facial oil or sleeping mask on top of it if you need extra nighttime hydration without any issues.
No — the 345 Relief Cream is clinically tested and certified non-comedogenic by the brand. We rate it 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The majority of its ingredients score 0–1 on comedogenicity ratings. The Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (rated 0–2) is the highest-rated ingredient and is generally well-tolerated even by acne-prone skin at cosmetic concentrations. Thousands of community reports from oily and acne-prone users confirm it does not clog pores in regular use.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream is 12 months. Once opened, use the product within one year for optimal safety and efficacy. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Because it comes in a hygienic metal squeeze tube (rather than an open jar), there is minimal air and bacteria exposure, which helps maintain formula stability through the full 12-month period. The 50ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, well within the PAO window.
Verdict: The Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream earns its place as a beloved K-beauty essential for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing gel-cream texture packs a clinically backed soothing punch — with a thoughtfully designed 3-4-5 ingredient system that delivers real results: calmer redness within days, stronger barrier within weeks, and visibly faded post-acne marks over months. The combination of Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, Ceramide NP, dual Hyaluronic Acid, and a rich botanical complex is impressive at its price point. It's fragrance-free, vegan-certified, fungal-acne safe, and clinically non-comedogenic — ticking nearly every modern skincare safety box. The main caveats are its insufficient hydration for very dry skin types as a standalone product, and the divisive 2025 Ver.2 reformulation that has polarized long-term fans of the original. For oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin seeking a gentle, science-backed everyday moisturizer that plays beautifully with actives, the 345 Relief Cream remains one of the best options in its category.
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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 9 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 8 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Water
Antimicrobial, Antiseborrhoeic, Astringent, Tonic
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|