5 % Niacinamide
5 % Niacinamide
Product Description
Product overview
A clean, minimalist 6-ingredient serum by Apotheke Science Philippines formulated with 5% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) in a soothing aloe vera and seaweed base. Designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin, this lightweight water-gel serum targets pore appearance, uneven skin tone, sebum regulation, and early signs of aging — without unnecessary fillers, fragrances, or harsh chemicals.
5% Niacinamide — The Sweet Spot
Dermatologist-recommended concentration that fades dark spots, minimizes pores, and regulates sebum without the irritation risk of higher percentages.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5% Niacinamide — The Sweet Spot
Dermatologist-recommended concentration that fades dark spots, minimizes pores, and regulates sebum without the irritation risk of higher percentages.
Aloe Vera Double Action
Contains both Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Leaf Extract for enhanced soothing, hydration, and barrier support, making it ideal for reactive skin.
Laminaria Digitata Seaweed
North Atlantic seaweed rich in amino acids, minerals, and vitamins that nourish the skin barrier, improve elasticity, and support long-term hydration.
Only 6 Clean Ingredients
Formulated by a Filipino Molecular Biologist and Medical Doctor — no unnecessary fillers, zero parabens, sulfates, dyes, silicones, or fragrances.
Natural Preservation with Leucine
Uses Leucine (an amino acid) as part of its preservation approach, keeping the formula stable while avoiding synthetic preservative systems.
Accessible Skincare Science
Created with a mission to heal rather than profit — offering science-backed, dermatologist-formulated skincare at an accessible Filipino price point.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Niacinamide, aloe vera, and seaweed extract are all considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your OB-GYN for personalized advice.
This formula is entirely free of ferments, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and lipid-based oils. Niacinamide is water-soluble and cannot be metabolized by Malassezia yeast, making this serum fully safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Every ingredient in this formula scores 0 on the comedogenic scale. No oils, waxes, or pore-clogging agents are present. Safe for acne-prone skin prone to clogged pores.
The 5% niacinamide concentration is the dermatologist-recommended range for sensitive skin — gentle enough for first-time niacinamide users and those new to actives.
When used together, niacinamide and Vitamin C are both effective and generally safe to layer. Apply them at different times of day (e.g., Vitamin C AM, Niacinamide PM) or wait 20–30 minutes between applications if using both in the same routine.
Niacinamide pairs well with retinol — it can actually help reduce retinol-induced irritation. With AHA/BHA, apply niacinamide after acid toners have fully absorbed (wait 20–30 minutes) or use at different routine steps.
While rare, some individuals may experience redness or initial irritation with niacinamide. Patch test on the jawline for 48 hours before full-face application, especially if this is your first niacinamide product.
Contains no EU-listed contact allergens. Fragrance-free formula with no common allergenic botanical extracts that could trigger contact dermatitis.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60–70%Base
Purified, deionized water serves as the primary solvent and vehicle for all water-soluble actives. The large proportion ensures a lightweight, non-greasy texture and allows niacinamide to remain in its most bioavailable form for skin absorption.
- Function: Solvent, hydration medium, product stability enhancer
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — completely non-pore-clogging
- Safety: Universally safe for all skin types, pregnancy, and breastfeeding
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice ~10–20%Proven
Fresh aloe vera gel juice — the cooling, hydrating backbone of this formula. Rich in polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and antioxidants, aloe vera actively soothes inflammation, supports wound healing, and provides immediate moisture to the skin barrier.
- Key benefit: Immediate cooling and anti-inflammatory effect upon application
- Hydration: Humectant properties draw and retain moisture in the stratum corneum
- Synergy: Enhances penetration of niacinamide into deeper skin layers
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract ~5–10%Proven
A more concentrated hydroglycolic extract of aloe vera, distinct from the juice form. Contains higher concentrations of aloe's active polysaccharides and antioxidant compounds (aloesin, acemannan) for deeper emollient and barrier-repair benefits.
- Aloesin content: Inhibits melanin synthesis — supports hyperpigmentation fading alongside niacinamide
- Acemannan: A polysaccharide with documented immunomodulatory and wound-healing properties
- Combined with juice: Dual-aloe approach provides both surface soothing and deeper skin repair
Laminaria Digitata Extract ~2–5%Promising
Brown seaweed harvested from the North Atlantic Ocean, rich in fucoidan, alginate, iodine, vitamins (B1, B2, C), and trace minerals (phosphorus, iron, potassium, copper). Provides multi-faceted skin benefits including hydration, antioxidant protection, and barrier nourishment.
- Fucoidan: Sulfated polysaccharide with documented anti-inflammatory and skin-conditioning properties
- Minerals: Trace minerals support enzymatic skin repair processes and collagen co-factors
- Hydration: Forms a moisture-retaining film on the skin surface
- Anti-aging: Research suggests seaweed polysaccharides may support skin elasticity and reduce fine line appearance
Niacinamide 5%Proven
The hero active — Vitamin B3 in its most bioavailable, skin-compatible form. At 5%, this is the dermatologist-recommended concentration for visible efficacy without irritation. When absorbed, niacinamide converts to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), an essential cellular fuel that powers skin repair, collagen production, and barrier strengthening.
- Pore minimizing: Clinically shown to reduce visible pore size at 4–5% concentration
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer between melanocytes and keratinocytes, fading dark spots and PIH
- Sebum regulation: Reduces sebum excretion rate — particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide synthesis for a stronger, healthier moisture barrier
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces cytokine production, calming redness associated with acne and rosacea
Leucine ~1–2%Promising
An essential branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) that plays multiple roles in this formula. Leucine supports the skin's natural protein synthesis, contributes to collagen and elastin production, and functions as part of the preservation system to maintain product stability without synthetic preservatives.
- Skin function: Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins — leucine supports the skin's structural proteins
- Preservation: Works synergistically with the aloe-based formula to maintain antimicrobial stability
- Safety: Naturally occurring amino acid — non-irritating, biocompatible, and universally safe
6 ingredients
Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Niacinamide, Leucine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on clean, slightly damp skin. Pat gently and allow to fully absorb before layering moisturizer. Suitable for both AM and PM routines. If using AHA/BHA acids, wait 20–30 minutes before applying this serum.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash your face with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser. Pat dry, leaving skin slightly damp for optimal serum absorption.
Tone (Optional)
Apply your toner and allow it to absorb fully. A hydrating toner complements this serum well, adding an extra layer of moisture beneath the niacinamide.
Dispense 2–4 Drops
Pump or dispense 2–4 drops of the serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this lightweight formula.
Pat & Press Into Skin
Apply the serum to your face and neck using gentle patting or pressing motions. Avoid rubbing — patting encourages better absorption and minimizes potential irritation.
Allow to Absorb (15–30 Seconds)
The water-gel texture absorbs quickly. Wait 15–30 seconds before applying the next product to prevent pilling and ensure full penetration.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with your moisturizer to lock in the serum's benefits. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect niacinamide-brightened skin from UV-induced pigmentation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone or oily skin with enlarged pores
- You're a niacinamide beginner or have sensitive skin
- You're dealing with post-acne dark spots (PIH) or uneven skin tone
- You prefer clean, minimal ingredient formulas
- You have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) and need safe actives
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need pregnancy-safe brightening
- You want an affordable, science-backed serum from a local brand
Consider alternatives if:
- You need 10%+ niacinamide for stubborn hyperpigmentation
- You want additional actives like hyaluronic acid, retinol, or peptides in one product
- Your skin is extremely dry and needs richer, occlusive ingredients
- You're looking for a product with a longer shelf life and robust preservative system
- You prefer Western or K-beauty brands with global distribution
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPES5% niacinamide clinically regulates sebum production. The oil-free, water-gel texture adds zero greasiness. Ideal for controlling midday shine and minimizing enlarged pores.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, and anti-inflammatory. Niacinamide at 5% helps calm active breakouts, fade PIH, and prevent future acne formation via sebum control.
5% is the gold standard concentration for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with soothing aloe base. The brand specifically recommends this variant for reactive and first-time niacinamide users.
Balances oily zones without over-drying the cheeks. Lightweight texture layers well under moisturizers targeted at drier face areas. One of the most well-suited skin types for this formula.
The aloe-based formula provides lightweight hydration, but dry skin types may need a richer moisturizer layered on top. Niacinamide's ceramide-boosting properties over time can improve dry skin barrier function.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Reduced Redness & Calmer Skin
Niacinamide's anti-inflammatory effects kick in almost immediately. Users typically report reduced skin redness, calmer active breakouts, and a cooler, more soothed feeling upon application thanks to the aloe base.
~75% noticedSebum Regulation & Pore Improvement
Sebum production begins to normalize. Pores may appear less congested and slightly more refined. Users with acne-prone skin often note fewer new breakouts forming and reduced blackhead occurrence.
~65% noticedVisible Brightening & Spot Fading
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne scars begin to fade as niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer. Skin tone appears more even. Some users report a natural healthy glow developing from improved barrier function.
~55% noticedRefined Texture & Strengthened Barrier
With consistent use, ceramide synthesis improves, delivering a noticeably stronger skin barrier with fewer dry patches, less sensitivity to environmental stressors, and smoother overall skin texture.
~45% noticedRatings by platform
715+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-clean 6-ingredient formula with no unnecessary fillers
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free — ideal for reactive skin
- Fungal acne safe — rare among niacinamide serums
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fast-absorbing water-gel texture leaves no residue
- Effective sebum control and pore refining
- Science-backed formulation by MD & Molecular Biologist
- Very affordable price point for an active serum
- Locally made — supports Filipino skincare industry
- Ideal for niacinamide beginners and sensitive skin types
Criticized
- Only 6 ingredients — lacks complementary actives like HA or peptides
- Pump packaging can waste product toward the end
- 5% may be insufficient for severe or established hyperpigmentation
- Minimal natural preservative system raises shelf-life questions
- Slight sticky feeling if over-applied
- Limited international availability — primarily Philippines market
- Rare initial breakouts reported by a minority of users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The global go-to for budget niacinamide. Higher 10% concentration is more potent for dark spots but may irritate sensitive skin. Zinc adds sebum-control benefits. Larger bottle (30ml). Lacks aloe and seaweed but is widely available globally.
K-beauty option with a higher 15% niacinamide concentration plus panthenol and adenosine. More complex formula with additional hydrating and anti-aging actives. Better for established hyperpigmentation but not ideal for true sensitive or first-timer skin. Not fungal acne safe due to additional ingredients.
Indian skincare brand offering 10% niacinamide combined with 0.1% hyaluronic acid. More hydrating than Apotheke's formula due to HA addition. Fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested. Higher concentration may not suit sensitive skin. Good international availability online.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Due to the minimal preservative system, use consistently and avoid contaminating the pump opening with unwashed hands.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid high-humidity environments. Refrigerating is optional but can extend freshness and enhance the cooling, soothing sensation on application.
Pump bottle (typically brown/amber glass or plastic). Protects formula from light degradation. Note: pump design may make it difficult to access the last few milliliters of product.
Yes — under 100ml. Compact size is TSA/aviation compliant for carry-on. Pump closure reduces spill risk during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Apotheke 5% Niacinamide serum is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical UV filters — the primary ingredients flagged as concerns during pregnancy. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), aloe vera, Laminaria Digitata seaweed extract, and leucine are all generally recognized as safe in topical skincare during pregnancy. That said, as with all skincare changes during pregnancy, we always recommend discussing new products with your OB-GYN or midwife for personalized medical guidance.
Yes — this serum is fully fungal acne safe. Malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) feeds on lipids — specifically fatty acids with carbon chains between C12 and C24. The Apotheke 5% Niacinamide formula contains zero oils, esters, polysorbates, ferments, or lipid-based ingredients that could fuel Malassezia overgrowth. Niacinamide itself is a water-soluble vitamin that yeast cannot metabolize. In fact, niacinamide is actively beneficial for fungal acne-prone skin because it regulates sebum (which feeds the yeast), reduces inflammation, and strengthens the barrier.
Yes, with some layering guidance. With Vitamin C: both are compatible and effective — apply Vitamin C in the AM and niacinamide in the PM to maximize benefits and avoid any potential temporary yellowing that can occur when high concentrations of both are mixed directly. With Retinol: niacinamide actually makes an excellent partner for retinol, as it helps reduce retinol-induced irritation and redness. Apply niacinamide first, allow to absorb, then apply retinol. With AHA/BHA acids: apply your acid toner first, allow it to fully absorb and pH to normalize (wait 20–30 minutes), then apply this niacinamide serum. Alternatively, use acids in the AM and niacinamide in the PM.
This serum is especially excellent for oily, acne-prone, combination, and sensitive skin types. Its sebum-regulating and anti-inflammatory niacinamide, combined with a soothing aloe vera base, makes it one of the most targeted formulas available for these concerns. It is also highly recommended for people with fungal acne, as the formula contains zero fungal acne triggers. Dry skin types can use it effectively but will need to layer a richer moisturizer on top, as this is a lightweight serum rather than an occlusive product. First-time niacinamide users of any skin type are encouraged to start with this 5% version before graduating to higher concentrations.
Most users notice initial improvements within 1–2 weeks in the form of reduced redness, calmer skin, and less frequent breakouts. Sebum regulation and pore refinement typically become visible within 3–4 weeks of consistent daily use. For hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, and dark spot fading, expect visible improvement from 6–8 weeks onward, with optimal results at the 3-month mark. Skincare is cumulative — consistent twice-daily application and daily SPF use significantly accelerates brightening results by preventing new UV-triggered melanin production.
Apply this serum as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, but before heavier treatments, moisturizer, and sunscreen. The general rule is thinnest-to-thickest. Because this is a water-based, lightweight serum, it should go on clean, slightly damp skin before any creams or oils. In the morning: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen SPF 30+. In the evening: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Treatment (if any) → Moisturizer. If using acid exfoliants (AHA/BHA), apply the acid after toning and wait 20–30 minutes before applying this serum.
No — this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it will not clog pores. Every single ingredient in the formula (water, aloe vera juice, aloe vera extract, Laminaria Digitata extract, niacinamide, and leucine) scores a 0 on the comedogenic scale. There are no oils, waxes, silicones, or fatty compounds of any kind. In fact, niacinamide actively helps prevent comedone formation by regulating sebum and keeping pores cleaner over time. This makes the serum one of the safest choices for acne-prone and pore-sensitive skin.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Given the minimal, natural preservative system (relying partially on leucine and the formula's low pH of 5.0–5.5 rather than synthetic preservatives), it is important to use the product consistently, keep the pump clean, and store it away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can extend freshness and enhance the soothing sensation. If the product develops an unusual smell, changes color, or separates, discontinue use immediately.
Verdict: TheApotheke 5% Niacinamide serum by Apotheke Science Philippines is a refreshingly honest product — just 6 well-chosen, clean ingredients doing exactly what they're supposed to. The aloe-and-seaweed base makes this one of the most soothing niacinamide serums available at any price point, while the 5% concentration hits the dermatologist-recommended sweet spot for sensitive skin, first-time niacinamide users, and anyone dealing with acne, pores, or pigmentation. It's pregnancy-safe, fungal acne safe, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic — ticking every major safety box. The trade-off is simplicity: if you need hyaluronic acid, peptides, or a higher niacinamide concentration in a single product, you'll need to look elsewhere. But as a clean, targeted, affordable active serum formulated with real scientific intent, this is a standout choice — especially for those who believe that fewer, better ingredients consistently outperform complex formulas.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Laminaria Digitata Extract
Skin Protecting
|
Hydrating
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Leucine
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|