AC Collection Ultimate Spot Cream
AC Collection Ultimate Spot Cream
Product Description
Product overview
By COSRX — A targeted overnight spot cream powered by the exclusive CentellAC-Rx Complex, Zinc Oxide, and Calamine to calm, dry out, and visibly reduce blemishes while you sleep. Gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin, this K-beauty staple uses botanical actives to tackle inflammation at the source without harsh chemicals.
CentellAC-Rx Complex
COSRX's proprietary blend of Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassic Acid from Centella Asiatica works to calm inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and support blemish recovery without irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCentellAC-Rx Complex
COSRX's proprietary blend of Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassic Acid from Centella Asiatica works to calm inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and support blemish recovery without irritation.
Overnight Blemish Drying
Zinc Oxide and Calamine combine to physically absorb excess sebum and create a mattifying, drying effect directly on active pimples, helping to visibly reduce their size overnight.
Aloe-Powered Soothing Base
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water forms the hydrating base of this formula, delivering antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E while neutralizing free radicals and protecting against external irritants.
Dual Block System Packaging
Innovative tube design blocks air contact until the product is opened for the first time, maintaining formula integrity, hygiene, and preservative stability throughout use.
Clinically Tested for Sensitivity
Dermatologist-tested and certified hypoallergenic, this formula is designed for problematic skin types prone to irritation and reactivity, making it suitable for even sensitive skin.
Antibacterial Tea Tree + Skullcap
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil and Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract provide gentle antimicrobial and antioxidant support to help address acne-triggering bacteria.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or harmful chemical sunscreens. Zinc Oxide is pregnancy-safe. Consult your doctor, but the ingredient profile is considered low-risk.
Contains Polysorbate 60, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Elaeis Guineensis Kernel Oil, and Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil — all known potential triggers for Malassezia folliculitis. Avoid if you have fungal acne.
Sunflower seed oil scores 0 and most emollients in this formula are low on the comedogenic scale. Overall rating is 2/5 — generally well tolerated by acne-prone skin.
Contains no added fragrances, perfumes, or colorants — making it suitable for reactive, fragrance-sensitive, or eczema-prone skin that can't tolerate scented products.
No drying or denatured alcohols (ethanol, denat. alcohol, isopropyl alcohol) present. This prevents the stripping effect that can worsen oily and acne-prone skin over time.
Compatible with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. Use cautiously alongside AHAs/BHAs or retinol — apply the spot cream after actives, not underneath, to avoid dilution.
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil appears near the bottom of the INCI (low concentration), but those with known essential oil sensitivities should patch test before first use.
Preserved with 1,2-Hexanediol and Ethyl Hexanediol instead of parabens. Free from sulfates, phthalates, and other common endocrine disruptors.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Water ~40–50%Proven
The first listed ingredient, meaning it forms the largest portion of this formula. This is the aqueous distillate of aloe vera leaves — not plain water — delivering antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E along with natural polysaccharides and minerals that hydrate, soothe, and neutralize free radicals on the skin's surface.
- Function: Humectant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, skin-conditioning
- Research: Demonstrated wound-healing and barrier-supporting properties in multiple clinical studies; effective at reducing erythema and calming irritated skin
- Benefit: Creates a soothing, non-greasy moisture base that won't over-dry acne-prone skin
Zinc Oxide ~3–7%Proven
A physical mineral with multiple roles in this formulation: it acts as a mild antimicrobial, a skin protectant, and a sebum absorber. In spot creams, Zinc Oxide helps create a physical barrier over the blemish while exerting anti-inflammatory and mild antibacterial effects on the surrounding skin.
- Function: Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, sebum-absorbing, skin protectant
- Research: Established efficacy in acne management; certain zinc compounds shown to reduce Propionibacterium acnes activity in peer-reviewed studies
- Note: Responsible for the slight whitish cast this product leaves on the skin
Calamine ~2–5%Proven
A classic dermatological ingredient consisting of zinc carbonate and zinc oxide with iron oxide. Calamine is widely recognized for its skin-drying and absorbent properties, making it the cornerstone ingredient in many pink spot treatments. It absorbs excess sebum from the blemish surface and creates a cooling, calming sensation.
- Function: Absorbent, sebum mattifier, mild antiseptic, skin protectant
- Research: Long history of clinical dermatological use for drying weeping lesions and reducing surface oil
- Synergy: Works in tandem with Zinc Oxide for enhanced drying and anti-inflammatory effect
Asiaticoside + Asiatic Acid + Madecassic Acid (CentellAC-Rx Complex) ~0.35–0.80% eachPromising
COSRX's proprietary Centella Asiatica extract trio — the brand's hero complex. Asiaticoside supports skin clarity, Asiatic Acid strengthens the skin barrier and promotes balance, and Madecassic Acid provides calming protection. Research confirms anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, though concentrations in this formula are on the lower side.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, barrier-strengthening, wound-healing, anti-scarring
- Asiaticoside: 0.35–0.75% — helps keep skin transparent and clear
- Asiatic Acid: 0.35–0.80% — strengthens skin barrier and maintains skin balance
- Madecassic Acid: 0.30–0.70% — protects and calms inflamed skin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil ~5–15%Proven
Second listed ingredient after aloe water, this lightweight emollient is rich in linoleic acid (50–74%) — which is particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin, where linoleic acid is commonly deficient. It reinforces the skin's ceramide production and supports barrier repair without heavy occlusion.
- Function: Emollient, barrier repair, skin softener
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — one of the lowest-comedogenic plant oils available
- Linoleic acid: High content makes it especially suitable for oily/acne-prone skin
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A well-established natural anti-acne ingredient containing terpinen-4-ol as its primary active component. Tea tree oil demonstrates broad antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal effects in research, with comparable efficacy to 5% benzoyl peroxide for mild to moderate acne — though at higher concentrations than present here.
- Function: Antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
- Key compound: Terpinen-4-ol (~40%) — primary bioactive against P. acnes bacteria
- Research: Multiple studies confirm effectiveness against acne-causing bacteria
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract ~0.1–1%Promising
Derived from Baikal skullcap root, this botanical extract is rich in baicalin and baicalein — flavonoids with documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild antibacterial properties. It complements the CentellAC-Rx Complex by providing additional skin-calming support.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, skin-soothing
- Key compounds: Baicalin, baicalein, wogonin — potent flavonoids
- Research: Shown to inhibit inflammatory cytokines involved in acne pathogenesis
Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM) ~1–3%Promising
A naturally occurring sulfur compound, also known as Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). Sulfur has a long history in dermatological acne treatment due to its drying and antibacterial properties. Oral MSM has demonstrated skin health benefits in clinical studies; topical use is less studied but considered to contribute antimicrobial and viscosity-controlling effects.
- Function: Solvent, viscosity controller, potential mild antimicrobial
- Sulfur connection: Like calamine and zinc, adds to the multi-mineral drying approach
- Note: Limited topical-specific clinical data; promising based on mechanism
24 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Butylene Glycol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Glycerin, Zinc Oxide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethyl Sulfone, Betaine, Polysorbate 60, Elaeis Guineensis Oil, Elaeis Guineensis Kernel Oil, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Calamine, Dimethicone, Illicium Verum Fruit Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Xanthan Gum, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Ethyl Hexanediol, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply only to affected areas after serums and before or instead of moisturizer on treated spots. Best used at night. If using in the AM, follow with sunscreen — Zinc Oxide provides mild UV protection but is not sufficient as sole SPF protection.
How to use
HOW TO USERemove the Seal
Peel off the white protective tape on the lid. Turn the cap to the right to puncture the tip — this is part of the Dual Block System that protects product freshness until first use.
Cleanse & Prep Your Skin
Start with a thoroughly cleansed, dried face. Apply your toner and serums as normal. Pat skin gently dry before spot application to ensure good adhesion to the blemish.
Apply to Blemishes Only
Squeeze a small pea-sized amount and dab directly onto active pimples or inflamed spots only. Do not apply across the entire face — this is a targeted spot treatment. A little goes a long way.
Use Morning and/or Evening
For best results, apply at night as part of your PM routine. Can also be used in the AM; if so, layer sunscreen over the treated area afterward. Avoid applying on broken skin or open wounds.
Be Patient
Most users notice a reduction in redness and swelling within 1–3 nights of use. For full blemish resolution, continued use over several days is recommended alongside a complete skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination acne-prone skin
- You get occasional breakouts and need a targeted overnight treatment
- You prefer gentle, non-stripping K-beauty formulas
- You want a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic spot treatment
- Your skin is sensitive or easily reactive to harsh actives like benzoyl peroxide
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a pregnancy-safe option
- You want a Centella Asiatica-powered calming treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You need aggressive overnight drying — this formula is more soothing than drying
- You have cystic or nodular acne (deep lesions require prescription treatments)
- You want a formula with proven-percentage actives like BHA, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur
- You're looking for a whole-face moisturizer — this is spot-only
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCalamine and Zinc Oxide absorb excess sebum directly at the blemish site. The matte finish works well for oily skin without adding shine or greasiness to treated areas.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin with Zinc Oxide, Calamine, Tea Tree Oil, and CentellAC-Rx Complex. Low comedogenic rating and clinically tested for irritation.
Works well for spot treatment on the T-zone while allowing separate moisturization of drier areas. Targeted application means it doesn't affect non-treated zones.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic. Aloe vera base and Centella actives make it gentle. Patch test recommended due to small amount of Tea Tree essential oil.
The drying action of Calamine may over-dry already parched skin. Suitable only as a true spot treatment on individual blemishes; avoid using broadly on dry skin areas.
Contains multiple Malassezia triggers including Polysorbate 60, Palm Oil, and Sunflower Seed Oil. Avoid entirely if you have confirmed Malassezia folliculitis.
Results timeline
MONTH 1+Redness Reduction & Calming
Zinc Oxide and Calamine begin absorbing excess sebum immediately. Many users report visible reduction in the redness and prominence of active pimples by the following morning. The aloe and Centella complex start calming surrounding inflammation.
~65% noticed less redness overnightSwelling Reduction & Drying
With consistent nightly application, the blemish surface begins to dry and flatten. Tea tree oil and Scutellaria extract work to address bacterial activity, while MSM (Dimethyl Sulfone) contributes mild sebum-regulating support.
~70% noticed visible flatteningClearer Skin at Blemish Sites
Active pimples resolve, and the CentellAC-Rx Complex supports skin recovery at healing sites — helping minimize post-inflammatory marks and supporting barrier restoration. Consistency with the rest of your routine determines full clearance speed.
~80% saw improved blemish resolutionSupported Skin Recovery
Long-term use as part of a consistent acne-management routine may help reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts. The Centella actives support barrier strength which can contribute to resilience against future blemishes.
~55% reported fewer breakouts with consistent useRatings by platform
8K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle, non-irritating formula ideal for sensitive acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic — dermatologist tested
- Visibly reduces redness and calms inflammation overnight
- Pregnancy-safe ingredient profile
- Innovative Dual Block System packaging maintains hygiene
- Nourishing Centella complex supports post-blemish skin recovery
- Affordable K-beauty pricing for the quality of formulation
- Compatible with most other skincare actives
Criticized
- Leaves a visible white cast due to Zinc Oxide content
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe — contains fatty acids and polysorbates
- More of a soothing cream than an aggressive drying lotion
- Limited efficacy on deep cystic or nodular acne
- Small 30g size may not last long with frequent use
- Thick, paste-like texture does not suit all preferences
- Results vary significantly between different skin types and acne severities
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Another K-beauty spot-calming cream with Centella Asiatica and a gentle AHA/BHA/PHA complex for added exfoliation. More active than the COSRX version but slightly more likely to irritate reactive skin. Similar soothing approach.
A Centella and panthenol-based barrier cream that can be applied as a spot soothing treatment. Less drying than the COSRX formula, but better for sensitive/dry skin that reacts to Calamine. Lacks Zinc Oxide's direct antibacterial action.
A lightweight serum with a high Centella Asiatica concentration, offering excellent anti-inflammatory support. More watery texture — apply before the spot treatment step. Good for those who want Centella benefits without the Calamine drying effect.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging to confirm. Use within this period for guaranteed efficacy and safety.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F) is ideal. Do not freeze.
Squeeze tube with Dual Block System — seals air out until first use. Hygienic single-aperture delivery prevents contamination. White and red branded packaging.
Yes — 30g / 1.05 oz is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in travel pouches. Squeeze tube design prevents leakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this product is considered pregnancy-safe based on its ingredient profile. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the primary ingredients avoided during pregnancy. Zinc Oxide, the key active, is widely considered safe during pregnancy. Aloe Vera and Centella Asiatica actives are also generally regarded as safe. As always, consult your OB-GYN or midwife before adding new skincare products to your routine during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Tea Tree Oil is present in trace amounts and is generally considered low-risk topically, but worth mentioning to your doctor.
No — this product is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains several known Malassezia triggers: Polysorbate 60 (an ester), Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Elaeis Guineensis Kernel Oil, and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil. Fatty acids from these oils and the polysorbate emulsifier can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne breakouts. If you suspect fungal acne, avoid this product and look for fungal acne-safe spot treatments formulated without fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates.
Generally yes, but layer carefully. This spot cream is compatible with most actives when applied in the correct order — apply your active serums (Vitamin C, niacinamide, AHA/BHA) first, let them absorb, then apply the spot cream on top of specific blemishes. Avoid mixing it directly with high-strength retinols or exfoliants, as the Centella actives can be diluted, and the emollient base could reduce penetration of your actives. For AHA/BHA toners, apply the spot cream afterwards in your PM routine. Not recommended to layer over benzoyl peroxide treatments to avoid pilling and potential irritation.
This product is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin. The Zinc Oxide and Calamine drying action pairs well with oily skin's excess sebum production, and the overall formula was specifically developed for problematic, acne-prone skin. It is also well-tolerated by sensitive skin types thanks to its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulation. Combination skin types do well using it as a targeted spot treatment. It is less ideal for dry skin (Calamine can over-dry already parched areas) and should be avoided entirely by those with confirmed fungal acne.
Many users report visible reduction in redness and swelling after just one overnight application. For most mild-to-moderate inflammatory pimples, noticeable flattening and calming occurs within 2–3 nights of consistent use. Full blemish resolution typically takes 5–7 days when used as part of a complete skincare routine. For best results, use consistently every evening on active spots. Note that deep cystic or nodular acne is unlikely to fully resolve with a spot cream alone and may require dermatological intervention. Results vary based on individual skin type, severity of breakout, and overall routine.
Apply this spot cream as step 4 in your routine — after cleansing, toning, and any serums/essences, but before your overall moisturizer. Apply it only on blemished areas. On untreated skin, apply your regular moisturizer as normal. In the morning, follow the spot-treated area with sunscreen (Zinc Oxide provides minor UV protection, but it's not adequate SPF alone). This product works best as part of your nighttime routine for maximum overnight action without the inconvenience of the white cast during the day.
This product has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5 — considered low to non-comedogenic. Sunflower seed oil (a primary ingredient) scores 0 on the comedogenic scale, and Zinc Oxide and Calamine are non-comedogenic. Palm oil (Elaeis Guineensis) has a slightly higher rating around 4, but it appears lower in the formula where concentration is reduced. In practice, the product is formulated and clinically tested for acne-prone skin, meaning real-world pore-clogging concerns are minimal when used as a spot treatment (not all-over moisturizer). Individual results may vary depending on skin chemistry.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months — look for the open jar icon on the packaging that indicates "12M." Unopened, the shelf life is typically 2–3 years from manufacture date (check the batch code). The Dual Block System helps extend freshness by limiting air contact until first use. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture before 12 months, discontinue use. A 30g tube used as a targeted spot treatment typically lasts 3–6 months for most users.
Verdict: The COSRX AC Collection Ultimate Spot Cream is a gentle, well-formulated K-beauty spot treatment that prioritizes skin calming over aggressive drying. Powered by Zinc Oxide, Calamine, and the brand's proprietary CentellAC-Rx Complex, it delivers meaningful reduction in redness and blemish size — especially for mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne. Its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and pregnancy-safe profile makes it one of the most accessible spot treatments for sensitive, reactive, and acne-prone skin. The main caveats: it is NOT safe for fungal acne, leaves a white cast, and won't satisfy users looking for aggressive overnight drying. Think of it less as a quick-fix drying lotion and more as acalming overnight blemish recovery cream — and it excels beautifully in that role.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
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 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water
Masking
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|