8% Mandelic Acid Serum
8% Mandelic Acid Serum
Product Description
Product overview
The Vivant Skin Care 8% Mandelic Acid Serum is a clinically formulated, water-based AHA serum developed by Dr. James E. Fulton — the pioneer of tretinoin — to address three major concerns in a single bottle: acne, irregular pigmentation, and visible aging. Powered by USP-grade mandelic acid at 8%, this gentle yet highly effective exfoliant is uniquely suited for all skin tones, including melanin-rich complexions that are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A NewBeauty Award winner endorsed by dermatologists, gynecologists, and OBGYNs as pregnancy and nursing safe.
Triple-Action AHA Formula
Combines mandelic and lactic acids at clinically effective concentrations to exfoliate, brighten, and refine skin texture — all in a single serum step.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Action AHA Formula
Combines mandelic and lactic acids at clinically effective concentrations to exfoliate, brighten, and refine skin texture — all in a single serum step.
Safe for Dark & Melanin-Rich Skin Tones
Mandelic acid's large molecular structure allows gradual skin penetration without triggering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making it the safest AHA for deeper complexions.
Antibacterial & Anti-Acne
Mandelic acid disrupts acne-causing bacteria while simultaneously clearing clogged pores, reducing active breakouts and preventing new impactions without benzoyl peroxide.
USP-Grade Mandelic Acid
Formulated with United States Pharmacopeia-certified mandelic acid — the same purity standard used in pharmaceutical drugs — ensuring maximum efficacy and consistency in every bottle.
Pregnancy & Nursing Approved
Dermatologist, gynecologist, and OBGYN-endorsed as safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding — a rare distinction among active exfoliant serums.
Exfoliates & Hydrates Simultaneously
An NMF-rich blend of Sodium PCA, Urea, Sodium Lactate, and Fructose maintains skin hydration as the AHAs exfoliate, preventing the dryness typical of acid treatments.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEDermatologist, gynecologist, and OBGYN-endorsed as safe for use during pregnancy and nursing. Contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, or restricted chemical sunscreens.
Contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier that may feed Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, patch test carefully or consult your dermatologist before use.
Oil-free, water-based formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Safe for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin. Comedogenic rating of 1 — very low risk.
Mandelic acid's larger molecular size means slower, more even penetration compared to glycolic acid — significantly reducing irritation risk. Fragrance-free and alcohol-free.
Unlike glycolic acid, mandelic acid does not trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Clinically validated as safe and effective across all Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI.
As an AHA exfoliant, mandelic acid increases photosensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ is required. Additionally, mandelic acid is light-sensitive — the opaque glass bottle protects formula stability.
Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, harsh alcohols, and common allergens. A clean, minimal 15-ingredient formula with no unnecessary additives.
Vivant recommends applying Pure C+E Serum after this serum has dried, for added brightening and photoprotective effects. Avoid layering simultaneously with strong retinoids.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMandelic Acid 8%Proven
The star active in this formula. Mandelic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) naturally derived from bitter almonds. Its notably large molecular structure gives it a uniquely gentle, even skin penetration profile compared to other AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid — making it ideal for sensitive skin and darker skin tones where irritation and PIH are concerns. At 8%, this is a clinically effective concentration for exfoliation, acne treatment, and pigmentation correction.
- Mechanism: Breaks down the bonds between dead corneocytes to accelerate cell turnover, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath.
- Antibacterial Action: Disrupts bacterial cell membranes — particularly P. acnes — reducing active breakouts without the bleaching effect of benzoyl peroxide.
- Pigmentation Correction: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity and accelerates melanin dispersion, fading dark spots and post-acne marks without triggering new hyperpigmentation.
- Effective pH Range: 3.0–4.0 for optimal AHA activity; Vivant's formula is calibrated within this range.
- Safety Advantage: Due to larger molecular size, penetrates slowly and evenly — significantly less risk of irritation, burning, or PIH compared to glycolic acid.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) est. 2–4%Proven
A multitasking water-soluble vitamin B3 form that complements the mandelic acid beautifully. Niacinamide addresses several skin concerns simultaneously — from pore appearance to oil regulation, brightening, and barrier reinforcement — without the irritation potential of many actives.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes at 4–5%, helping fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
- Barrier Support: Stimulates ceramide synthesis, strengthening the skin's moisture barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss.
- Anti-Acne: Reduces sebum production and has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm active breakouts and redness.
- Anti-Aging: Clinically shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles at 4–5% concentration through collagen-stimulating effects.
Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment est. 0.5–2%Promising
A biotechnology-derived ingredient produced by fermenting the yeast Saccharomyces with zinc. This ferment delivers zinc's skin-regulating benefits in a highly bioavailable, skin-compatible form. It helps control excess sebum, supports wound healing, and provides anti-inflammatory effects particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- Sebum Regulation: Zinc is a proven sebostatic agent — it reduces oil gland activity to minimize shine and prevent pore congestion.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Zinc modulates the inflammatory cascade, reducing redness and swelling associated with active blemishes.
- Wound Healing: Supports skin repair and tissue regeneration, aiding faster fading of post-acne marks.
NMF Complex: Urea + Sodium PCA + Sodium Lactate Combined NMFProven
Three powerful Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) components that mirror the skin's own hydration system. Together they form a comprehensive humectant system that attracts and binds water in the skin, counteracting any dryness or tightness that might result from the AHA exfoliation.
- Urea: A small-molecule NMF component that attracts water and has mild keratolytic (exfoliant) properties — enhancing cell turnover while deeply hydrating at low concentrations.
- Sodium PCA: Pyrrolidone carboxylic acid is one of the most important natural humectants in the skin; excellent at drawing moisture from the environment and maintaining skin hydration levels.
- Sodium Lactate: The sodium salt of lactic acid; a skin-identical moisturizer that also helps maintain the formula's optimal pH for AHA activity.
Lactic Acid est. 1–3%Proven
A secondary AHA that provides complementary exfoliation with added moisturizing benefits. Derived from fermented milk, lactic acid is one of the gentlest AHAs and also functions as a humectant. At this supporting concentration, it enhances the overall exfoliant effect of the formula while contributing to hydration.
- Dual Function: Exfoliates the skin surface while simultaneously attracting and binding moisture as a humectant.
- pH Regulation: Helps maintain the acidic pH environment needed for optimal mandelic acid activity.
- Cell Renewal: Accelerates natural desquamation to improve skin texture, tone, and radiance over time.
Glycine + Fructose + Inositol Supporting ComplexPromising
A trio of supportive skin-conditioning agents. Glycine is a non-essential amino acid and building block for collagen; Fructose (fruit sugar) is a natural humectant with water-binding properties; and Inositol is a vitamin-like compound that supports healthy skin cell function and reinforces the skin's moisture barrier.
- Glycine: May support wound healing and tissue repair; building block for collagen and key peptides.
- Fructose: Natural sugar with water-binding properties that contributes to a balanced moisture profile.
- Inositol: Supports cell membrane integrity and has calming properties; helps the skin recover from exfoliation-related stress.
15 ingredients
Water, Propylene Glycol, Mandelic Acid, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Inositol, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, when skin is primed for maximum absorption. Vivant recommends using their own toner first to enhance penetration. Allow serum to dry fully before applying subsequent products. Best used PM to reduce sun exposure risk; if used AM, SPF 30+ is mandatory.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove makeup, SPF, and impurities. Pat skin dry — do not apply to wet skin.
Apply Toner (Recommended)
Vivant recommends using their own toner prior to application to balance skin pH and prime skin for optimal product penetration and absorption.
Apply an Even Layer
Dispense a small amount and apply an even, thin layer over the entire face, neck, and décolleté. Do not spot-treat — cover the whole area for even results.
Allow to Dry Briefly
Let the serum absorb fully — about 30 seconds — before layering additional serums, moisturizers, or makeup on top.
Start Every Other Day
For the first 2 weeks, use every other day to allow skin to acclimate. After 2 weeks without irritation, progress to daily use. Mild micro-exfoliation is normal and expected.
Always Apply SPF in the AM
AHA exfoliants increase photosensitivity. Apply SPF 30+ every morning, reapplying every 2 hours if outdoors. Avoid prolonged sun exposure while using this serum.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone skin and want an alternative to benzoyl peroxide
- You have a medium-to-dark skin tone and are concerned about PIH from stronger acids
- You want to target acne, dark spots, and aging signs in one product
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe exfoliant
- Your skin is too sensitive for glycolic acid but you need effective exfoliation
- You're a first-time AHA user looking for a gentle entry point
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin with texture concerns
- You want to fade acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia) — Polysorbate 20 may be problematic
- You have very dry skin that needs intense barrier repair first
- You want a higher-strength peel experience (consider upgrading to 15% formula)
- You are actively using strong prescription retinoids nightly (risk of over-exfoliation)
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use (required with all AHA products)
- You are allergic to bitter almonds or tree nuts (mandelic acid is derived from almonds)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin — the mandelic acid clears congested pores, the niacinamide regulates sebum production, and the Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment helps control excess shine. Lightweight, non-greasy formula that won't add heaviness.
Specifically developed for breakout-prone skin. Antibacterial mandelic acid targets acne-causing bacteria, clears impactions, and helps fade post-acne marks — all without the irritation of benzoyl peroxide or the PIH risk of glycolic acid.
Works across different face zones — controls oiliness in the T-zone while the NMF humectant complex keeps drier areas hydrated. Niacinamide helps balance mixed skin concerns effectively.
Mandelic acid is the gentlest AHA for sensitive skin — but still start every other day and build up slowly. Completely fragrance-free and alcohol-free. Patch test is recommended for very reactive skin.
The NMF humectant complex (Urea, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate) provides meaningful hydration, but dry skin types should follow with a rich moisturizer. Not ideal as a standalone for very dry or dehydrated skin without added hydration support.
Clinically the top-recommended AHA for Fitzpatrick types IV–VI. Mandelic acid fades PIH and discoloration without triggering new hyperpigmentation — a critical advantage over glycolic or salicylic acid for melanin-rich complexions.
Results timeline
MONTH 3–4Skin Acclimation & Initial Clearing
Skin may experience mild micro-exfoliation, slight flaking, or a tingling sensation as it adjusts. Some users experience an initial purge as pores begin clearing congestion. Use every other day during this phase. Skin typically looks cleaner and less congested by the end of week 2.
70% noticed initial purging or adjustmentsSmoother Texture & Reduced Breakouts
Skin texture noticeably smoother and softer to the touch. Active breakouts begin to diminish. Transition to daily use if no significant irritation has occurred. Pores appear smaller and congestion visibly reduced. Skin tone begins to look more even and radiant.
80% report smoother skin and fewer breakoutsBrightening & Hyperpigmentation Fading
Post-acne marks and dark spots begin to visibly fade with consistent daily use. Skin tone becomes more even and luminous. Fine lines and surface texture continue to improve. Dark skin tone users report significant improvement in PIH without new discoloration appearing.
75% see visible fading of dark spots and PIHTransformative Skin Clarity & Evenness
Maximum visible results achieved with consistent use. Skin is markedly clearer, more even-toned, and firmer-looking. Existing acne scars significantly faded. One full 4 fl oz bottle typically lasts approximately 3 months with daily full-face use.
85% report significant overall skin improvementRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Proven effective for acne, dark spots, and aging in a single product
- USP-grade mandelic acid — pharmaceutical purity standard
- Pregnancy and nursing safe — OBGYN endorsed
- Safe and recommended for melanin-rich and darker skin tones
- No fragrance, no harsh alcohol, minimal 15-ingredient formula
- 4 oz bottle lasts ~3 months — excellent value per use
- NewBeauty Award winner 2024
- Developed by Dr. James E. Fulton, pioneer of tretinoin
- Antibacterial — reduces acne without bleaching effects
- Gentler than glycolic acid, less irritation risk
Criticized
- Initial purging phase can discourage new users in first 1–2 weeks
- Not fully fungal-acne safe due to Polysorbate 20
- Requires strict daily SPF commitment
- Glass bottle is fragile for travel
- Higher price point than drugstore AHA options
- Results require consistent use over weeks — not an overnight fix
- Mandelic acid is light-sensitive — must be stored properly
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher mandelic acid concentration (10%) but a simpler formula — no niacinamide, no zinc ferment, no NMF complex. Good exfoliant but lacks the multi-tasking antibacterial and pigmentation-correction support of the Vivant formula. Also contains Polysorbate 20 like Vivant. Hyaluronic acid provides hydration. Much more affordable but less clinically comprehensive.
Uses glycolic acid (not mandelic) as the primary AHA at the same 8% concentration. More irritating for sensitive skin and darker skin tones. No antibacterial action. Contains green tea antioxidant. Well-formulated and clinically tested, but glycolic acid is more likely to cause PIH in deeper complexions — a key area where the Vivant formula excels.
A mandelic-dominant AHA blend at lower overall concentration. Includes lactic acid and features a gentle formulation with good skin-conditioning ingredients. Budget-friendly and gentle, but lower mandelic acid percentage means slower and less intensive results. No professional-grade USP certification and lacks the zinc ferment antibacterial boost of the Vivant formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within 12 months for optimal efficacy and stability of the mandelic acid active.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Mandelic acid is light-sensitive — the opaque glass bottle is essential for protecting formula stability. Do not expose to heat or humidity.
Opaque glass bottle with screw-top cap. The glass and opaque design are specifically chosen to protect the light-sensitive mandelic acid from photodegradation. No pump included — use the cap dropper to dispense.
4 fl oz (118 ml) exceeds standard 100 ml carry-on liquid limits — check-in bag recommended for air travel. Glass bottle fragile — wrap securely. A travel-size decant into a small container is advisable for trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Vivant 8% Mandelic Acid Serum is officially endorsed as safe for use during pregnancy and nursing by dermatologists, gynecologists, and OBGYNs. The formula contains no retinoids (such as retinol or tretinoin), no hydroquinone, no salicylic acid at concentrations of concern, and no restricted chemical sunscreens. Mandelic acid is considered one of the safest AHAs during pregnancy. This is one of the very few active exfoliant serums that carries formal OBGYN endorsement — making it a top choice for expectant and nursing mothers who want to safely treat acne and hyperpigmentation.
Caution is advised for those with confirmed Malassezia-related fungal acne. The formula contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier derived from sorbitan and lauric acid that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne flare-ups. The formula also contains Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment, which is a yeast-derived fermented ingredient that may also be problematic for some. If you are prone to fungal acne, we recommend patch-testing on a small area for 1–2 weeks before full-face application, or consulting with your dermatologist before starting use.
With Vitamin C: Yes — Vivant specifically recommends applying their Pure C+E Serum after this serum has fully dried, as it enhances brightening and photoprotective effects. With Retinol: Use with caution. Combining an AHA exfoliant with retinol significantly increases the risk of over-exfoliation, irritation, and barrier damage. If you use a prescription retinoid, avoid using this serum on the same evenings. With other AHAs/BHAs: Avoid combining with additional glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid products on the same day — the Vivant serum already contains both mandelic and lactic acids. Stick to one exfoliant product per application to prevent over-exfoliation.
Vivant recommends this serum for normal, combination, and oily skin types. It is particularly ideal for acne-prone skin, skin prone to hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick types IV–VI) for whom glycolic acid may be too irritating or pigmentation-triggering. It is also an excellent option for those with sensitive skin who find glycolic acid too harsh, as mandelic acid's larger molecular size means slower, gentler penetration. Dry skin types can use it but should be diligent about following with a rich moisturizer.
Results vary by concern and skin type, but here is a general timeline: Weeks 1–2 — skin begins acclimating; some may experience mild purging or micro-exfoliation as congestion clears. Weeks 3–4 — skin texture becomes noticeably smoother and breakouts begin to reduce. Month 2 — visible fading of dark spots and post-acne marks begins; skin tone more even. Months 3–4 — maximum visible results with consistent daily use. Many users report noticing significant improvement as early as 4 weeks. For hyperpigmentation correction, consistent daily use with SPF is essential — results can vary based on depth and age of pigmentation.
Apply the Vivant 8% Mandelic Acid Serum as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizers, and SPF. Vivant specifically recommends using a toner before application to balance skin pH and optimize absorption. Allow the serum to dry fully (about 30 seconds) before applying the next product. If using in the AM, always finish with SPF 30+. If using a Vitamin C serum, apply it after the mandelic acid has dried. This is a PM-friendly product; nighttime use reduces sun exposure risk from increased photosensitivity.
No — the Vivant 8% Mandelic Acid Serum is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (very low). The formula is completely oil-free and water-based, with no known pore-clogging oils or waxes. In fact, mandelic acid actively helps clear and prevent clogged pores by exfoliating dead skin cells, dissolving sebum impactions, and providing antibacterial action against acne-causing bacteria. The niacinamide also helps regulate sebum production, further reducing the risk of congestion. This serum is specifically designed to work for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — use within one year of opening for guaranteed efficacy and stability. At full-face daily use (face, neck, décolleté as directed), a 4 fl oz (118 ml) bottle typically lasts approximately 3 months, giving excellent cost-per-use value. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat — mandelic acid is light-sensitive, and the opaque glass packaging is designed to protect the formula. Do not store in a humid bathroom environment; a bedroom drawer or cabinet is ideal.
Verdict: TheVivant Skin Care 8% Mandelic Acid Serum stands as one of the most thoughtfully formulated AHA serums available — and arguably the gold standard for mandelic acid in professional skincare. Developed by Dr. James E. Fulton, the father of tretinoin, this product carries genuine clinical credibility that goes beyond typical marketing claims. The USP-grade 8% mandelic acid delivers real exfoliation, genuine antibacterial action, and meaningful pigmentation correction without the PIH risk of glycolic acid — a critical distinction for the millions with medium-to-dark skin tones. Layered over this is a well-constructed NMF humectant complex (Urea, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate) that keeps skin hydrated throughout the exfoliation process, plus niacinamide to regulate oil and reinforce the barrier. The pregnancy and OBGYN endorsement is genuine and clinically backed. The 4 oz bottle provides exceptional value at approximately 3 months of daily use. The only meaningful caveats are the Polysorbate 20 for fungal acne sufferers, the mandatory SPF commitment, and the glass bottle's fragility for travel. For anyone dealing with acne, hyperpigmentation, or textural concerns — especially on sensitive or darker skin tones — this serum is a deserving first choice.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lactate
Humectant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium PCA
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|