AC Moderate Strength 5% Acne Gel
AC Moderate Strength 5% Acne Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-tested targeted acne treatment gel powered by 5% Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzac's proprietary Acrylates Copolymer (AC) bead technology. Kills up to 94% of P. acnes bacteria, unblocks pores, and reduces blackheads and whiteheads — while glycerin keeps skin hydrated throughout treatment.
Kills Up to 94% of Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl Peroxide is a powerful oxidizing agent that destroys P. acnes bacteria on contact — and unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to it.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Up to 94% of Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl Peroxide is a powerful oxidizing agent that destroys P. acnes bacteria on contact — and unlike antibiotics, bacteria cannot develop resistance to it.
Proprietary AC Bead Technology
Acrylates Copolymer micro-beads absorb up to four times their own weight in excess sebum while simultaneously releasing glycerin back into skin to maintain moisture balance.
Unblocks Pores & Clears Comedones
The keratolytic action of Benzoyl Peroxide loosens the bonds between dead skin cells, clearing out blackheads and whiteheads without mechanical scrubbing.
Hydrates While It Treats
Added glycerin (a skin-identical humectant) offsets the drying effect of BPO, helping maintain the skin's moisture levels throughout the treatment cycle.
No Risk of Antibiotic Resistance
Unlike topical antibiotics such as clindamycin, Benzoyl Peroxide remains fully effective no matter how long you use it — bacteria simply cannot adapt to its oxidative mechanism.
Clean, Minimal Formulation
Just 11 ingredients — no fragrances, parabens, sulfates, essential oils, or silicones. Stripped-back formula means fewer irritants and a lower risk of allergic reactions.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThe product label advises consulting a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Benzoyl Peroxide has minimal systemic absorption, but use only when clearly needed and under medical supervision. Do not apply to the chest area if breastfeeding.
This formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Benzoyl Peroxide is actually anti-fungal by nature — it is considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
None of the ingredients in this formula have a significant comedogenic rating. Glycerin (0/5) and Propylene Glycol (0/5) are both confirmed non-pore-clogging. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Benzoyl Peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent that will bleach or discolor towels, pillowcases, clothing, and hair on contact. Always use white or old linens and rinse thoroughly after application.
BPO makes skin more photosensitive. Daily SPF 30+ sunscreen is essential during treatment. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning beds, and UV lamps while using this product.
Do not apply to broken, windburned, sunburned, or eczema-prone skin. Wait until the skin barrier has fully healed before beginning treatment. Avoid eye area, lips, and angles of the nose.
Unlike oral or topical antibiotics, BPO cannot trigger bacterial resistance. If clindamycin or other antibiotics have stopped working, Benzac AC 5% may still be effective and is often combined with antibiotics in clinical settings.
Do not combine with AHAs, BHAs, retinoids, or other exfoliating actives during the same application. Cumulative irritation risk is high. Consult a dermatologist before combining with any prescription acne therapy.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5% (50mg/g)Gold Standard
The primary active ingredient and the most clinically validated OTC acne treatment available. BPO is a powerful oxidizing agent that kills P. acnes bacteria, reduces excess oil, and promotes cell turnover — all without triggering antibiotic resistance.
- Mechanism: Generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that disrupt the cell membranes of P. acnes bacteria, killing them on contact.
- Efficacy: Kills up to 94% of acne-causing bacteria within one week of consistent use, per clinical testing.
- Anti-inflammatory: Beyond antibacterial action, BPO also reduces skin inflammation, speeding up the resolution of existing spots.
- Keratolytic: Promotes natural exfoliation of dead skin cells, preventing pore blockages that lead to blackheads and whiteheads.
- No resistance: Unlike topical antibiotics, bacteria have not developed — and cannot develop — resistance to BPO's oxidative mechanism.
Acrylates Copolymer (AC Beads) VariableProprietary Tech
Benzac's signature technology — micro-porous polymer beads that actively absorb sebum (up to 4× their own weight in oil) while simultaneously releasing glycerin back into the skin, helping control shine without stripping moisture.
- Oil absorption: Selectively absorbs excess skin oils without removing the water-based components skin needs for hydration.
- Glycerin delivery: The beads are loaded with glycerin and release it during sebum absorption — an active hydration mechanism embedded in the formula.
- Film former: Creates a breathable film over applied areas, extending the contact time of BPO with skin.
Glycerin (Glycerol) Low-ModerateProven
A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the upper layers of the skin. Its inclusion in this formula directly counteracts the drying effect that Benzoyl Peroxide can have on the skin barrier.
- Humectant: Attracts water molecules and binds them to the skin, maintaining hydration during and after treatment.
- Skin-identical: Glycerin is naturally found in healthy skin lipids, making it exceptionally well-tolerated — even by sensitive skin types.
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — confirmed non-pore-clogging at any concentration.
Propylene Glycol LowProven
A multifunctional ingredient serving as both a humectant (retaining moisture) and a penetration enhancer — helping Benzoyl Peroxide absorb more effectively into the skin where it needs to act.
- Penetration enhancer: Improves the skin penetration of active ingredients, amplifying the efficacy of BPO.
- Antimicrobial: Has mild antimicrobial properties that contribute to product preservation and skin-level bacteria reduction.
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — confirmed non-comedogenic.
Carbomer 940 ~0.5–1%Functional
A cross-linked polymer of acrylic acid that converts the liquid formulation into a stable, clear gel with a smooth, non-tacky texture. It has a large molecular size with minimal skin penetration.
- Thickener/Gellant: Gives the product its signature clear gel texture, enabling even, controlled application.
- pH-dependent: Activated by sodium hydroxide (which adjusts the formula to skin-friendly pH levels).
- Comedogenicity: 1/5 — very low risk; considered safe for acne-prone skin at typical concentrations.
11 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide 50mg/g (Active) · Docusate Sodium · Disodium Edetate · Poloxamer 182 · Carbomer 940 · Propylene Glycol · Acrylates Copolymer · Glycerol · Silicon Dioxide · Purified Water · Citric Acid and/or Sodium Hydroxide (to adjust pH)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply only to affected areas after cleansing and before moisturizing. Do not layer over other active treatments (AHAs, BHAs, retinoids). SPF is non-negotiable during daytime use.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants. A mild foam or gel cleanser is ideal before applying any BPO treatment.
Pat Completely Dry
Gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel — ideally a dark or old one, as BPO can bleach fabric. Wait a few minutes to ensure skin is fully dry before applying the gel.
Apply a Thin Film to Affected Areas Only
Start by applying a very thin layer only to spots or acne-prone zones — do not apply all over the face. In the first 3 days, leave on for 2 hours only, then rinse off with water.
Build Up Gradually
After 3 days with no discomfort, apply in the evening and leave overnight. After 7 days with no redness or peeling, you may use twice daily (morning and night) if needed.
Rinse Off (if applied for timed use)
If applying for the initial 2-hour contact time, rinse off thoroughly with water and pat dry. Once tolerating overnight use, rinse off in the morning as part of your cleansing step.
Moisturize Immediately After
Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer straight after rinsing (or after applying the gel if leaving overnight). Moisturizing is essential to prevent excessive dryness and peeling.
Apply Sunscreen Every Morning
BPO significantly increases photosensitivity. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning without exception. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds throughout treatment.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (pustules, papules, cysts)
- Your skin is oily or combination-oily
- Topical antibiotics have stopped working for your acne
- You need a fast-acting spot treatment for individual breakouts
- You want to address blackheads and whiteheads alongside pimples
- You've outgrown lower-strength BPO (2.5%) but aren't ready for 10%
- You're dealing with fungal acne and inflammatory breakouts simultaneously
Consider alternatives if:
- You have dry, very sensitive, or reactive skin without a solid moisture barrier
- You have active eczema, dermatitis, or rosacea on the same area
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult a doctor first)
- Your acne is primarily hormonal deep cysts — BPO works best on surface bacteria
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use (sun sensitivity is a real risk)
- You want to use colored pillowcases or towels without bleaching risk
- You are already using prescription retinoids or strong AHA/BHA treatments
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The AC bead technology selectively absorbs excess sebum while BPO targets the bacteria that thrive in oily environments. Matte gel finish controls shine effectively.
Use with extra caution. BPO can significantly worsen dryness and cause flaking. Start with the 2.5% strength, apply a heavy moisturizer beforehand (buffering method), and monitor closely for irritation.
Works well when applied as a spot treatment to oilier, acne-prone zones (T-zone, chin) rather than across the whole face. Avoid dry patches and cheek areas.
High risk of irritation, redness, and peeling. If your skin is reactive, consider starting with 2.5% BPO and only upgrading if well-tolerated after 4+ weeks. Patch test mandatory.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and targets the root bacterial cause of breakouts. The gold standard for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris.
Suitable for spot use on occasional breakouts. Pair with a good moisturizer and introduce slowly to avoid unnecessary dryness. Fragrance-free formula reduces irritation risk.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSInitial Skin Adjustment
Skin begins adapting to BPO. You may notice mild redness, tingling, or tightness in treated areas. This is normal. Apply once daily for no more than 2 hours at first — do not increase use during this phase.
90% experience initial adjustmentBacterial Reduction & First Visible Results
BPO begins significantly reducing P. acnes bacteria. Existing spots may start to dry out and flatten. Some users notice increased peeling as dead skin cells are shed — this is part of the keratolytic process.
70% see first improvement by day 7Noticeable Acne Clearance
Active breakouts reduce in size and frequency. Pore congestion decreases as comedones are cleared. Skin starts to look clearer and more even. Most users report 50–70% reduction in active spots during this window.
80% notice significant clearing by week 4Sustained Clearance & Maintenance
Maximum benefit is typically reached around 8–12 weeks of consistent use. Skin is significantly clearer with ongoing preventative action against new breakouts. Dermatologists recommend continuing use even after clearance.
60% achieve near-complete clearance by week 12Long-Term Management
BPO maintains its efficacy indefinitely — there is no resistance build-up. Long-term users typically reduce frequency to maintenance dosing (every other day or nightly spot treatment). Skin remains clear with continued use.
85% of long-term users maintain clear skinRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective against inflammatory acne — results visible within 1 week
- No antibiotic resistance — remains effective even after long-term use
- Proprietary AC bead technology controls oil without over-drying
- Glycerin cushions the drying effect of BPO
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, minimal ingredient list
- Fungal acne safe — no problematic ferments or fatty esters
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores while treating them
- Available OTC — no prescription needed
- Works as both a spot treatment and all-over acne gel
- Affordable and widely available in pharmacies worldwide
Criticized
- Can cause significant dryness, flaking, and peeling — especially in the first 2 weeks
- Bleaches towels, pillowcases, clothing, and hair on contact
- Increases photosensitivity — requires daily sunscreen without exception
- Not suitable for dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin without precautions
- Initial purging breakout is common in the first 1–2 weeks
- Less effective for deep cystic or hormonal acne (bacteria not the root cause)
- Should not be used during pregnancy without medical advice
- Cannot be combined with most other topical actives without irritation
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical active ingredient at the same 5% BPO concentration. The formulation differs slightly — Acnecide uses carbopol as the gelling agent and contains propylene glycol. Lacks Benzac's proprietary AC bead technology for oil management. Widely available in UK pharmacies.
Same active ingredient (Benzoyl Peroxide) at half the concentration (2.5%), making it a gentler entry-point for BPO newcomers. Significantly less drying, though also less potent for moderate-severity acne. A good stepping stone before upgrading to 5%.
A rinse-off BPO wash rather than a leave-on gel — different application method but same antibacterial active. Lower contact time means gentler results, making it better for widespread acne on face, chest, and back rather than targeted spot treatment. No bleaching of pillowcases since it's rinsed off.
Different active (2% Salicylic Acid vs 5% BPO) — targets pore congestion and blackheads more than bacterial acne. Better for fungal acne-type breakouts and comedonal acne. Does not carry bleaching risk and is gentler overall, but has less anti-bacterial potency than Benzac AC 5%.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Benzoyl Peroxide begins to degrade over time — discard if the gel changes color, smell, or consistency. Check the expiry date on the tube before use.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources. BPO is unstable at high temperatures, which can reduce its efficacy.
60g squeeze tube with screw cap. Opaque tube protects BPO from light degradation. Minimal, pharmacy-style packaging — no excess waste.
Yes — 60g tube is well under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Secure the cap tightly before packing. Be mindful that BPO can bleach fabric if the tube leaks.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzac AC 5% is classified as a Pregnancy Category C medication — meaning it should only be used during pregnancy if a doctor has clearly determined that the benefit outweighs the potential risk. Benzoyl Peroxide has very low systemic absorption through the skin, but safety during pregnancy has not been established in robust clinical trials. The product label explicitly advises consulting a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, intending to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. If breastfeeding, do not apply to the chest area to prevent accidental transfer to your infant. Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance.
Yes — Benzac AC 5% is considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains no fermented ingredients, polysorbates, fatty acid esters, oils, or other substrates that feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, Benzoyl Peroxide has inherent antifungal properties due to its oxidizing mechanism. If your breakouts are confirmed as fungal acne rather than bacterial acne vulgaris, note that BPO will not be specifically targeting the root cause (Malassezia overgrowth) — an antifungal treatment such as ketoconazole may be more directly effective. However, Benzac AC 5% is safe to use alongside antifungal treatment.
Exercise significant caution when combining Benzac AC 5% with other active ingredients. Benzoyl Peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent — it can deactivate certain antioxidants like L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), reducing their effectiveness. Combining BPO with retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene) can cause severe dryness and irritation unless alternated carefully. Using BPO alongside AHAs or BHAs at the same time significantly increases the risk of cumulative irritation and barrier damage. Dermatologists generally recommend using BPO alone, or alternating actives (e.g., BPO in the morning, retinoid at night) and never applying multiple exfoliants simultaneously. Always consult a dermatologist before combining BPO with prescription therapies.
Benzac AC 5% is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types dealing with mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules, and bacterial breakouts). Its AC bead technology specifically targets excess sebum, making it highly effective for oily skin. It also works well as a spot treatment for combination skin. Those with dry, sensitive, or reactive skin should approach BPO with caution — start with 2.5% strength and incorporate a thick barrier moisturizer to offset dryness. It is not recommended for active eczema, perioral dermatitis, or rosacea-affected areas.
Most users notice the first visible improvement within 3–7 days of consistent use, with existing spots flattening and drying out. Significant acne clearance is typically observed between 2–4 weeks. Maximum clinical benefit is usually reached after 8–12 weeks of consistent daily use. Dermatologists recommend continuing use for at least one full month before evaluating whether the product is working for your skin. If there is no improvement after one month, the product label advises consulting a healthcare professional — you may need a stronger formula (Benzac AC 10%) or a different active ingredient. Do not expect overnight results — consistency is key with Benzoyl Peroxide.
Benzac AC 5% is applied as the treatment step in your routine, after cleansing (and optional toning) and before moisturizing. The official recommendation is: Step 1 — Cleanse (e.g., a gentle foam or gel cleanser), Step 2 — Apply Benzac AC 5% as a thin film to affected areas only, Step 3 — Moisturize with a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizer. In the AM, always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step. Do not apply over serums, essences, or other active treatments — BPO should be in direct contact with clean skin for best results. For spot treatment, apply only to individual spots rather than all over the face to minimize irritation.
No — Benzac AC 5% is non-comedogenic with an overall comedogenic rating of 0/5. None of the ingredients in the formula have a significant pore-clogging rating. Benzoyl Peroxide itself has a comedogenic rating of 0 and actually helps to unclog pores through its keratolytic action. Glycerin (0/5) and Propylene Glycol (0/5) are both confirmed non-comedogenic humectants. Carbomer 940 has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5 — considered negligible at the concentrations used in this formula. The product is specifically designed to clear pores, not block them, making it inherently anti-comedogenic in its mechanism of action.
Benzac AC 5% has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Benzoyl Peroxide is an unstable active ingredient that degrades over time when exposed to air, heat, and light — so proper storage is important for maintaining efficacy. Always store the tube below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check the expiry date printed on the tube — do not use the product if it has passed its expiry date, changed colour, or developed an unusual smell. A 60g tube typically lasts 1–3 months depending on how it is applied (spot treatment vs. all-over application), so most users will use it well within the 12-month window.
Verdict: Benzac AC 5% Acne Gel is one of the most clinically proven and cost-effective OTC acne treatments available. Its 5% Benzoyl Peroxide concentration hits the clinical sweet spot — potent enough to deliver fast, visible results against inflammatory bacterial acne, yet less aggressive than 10% formulations. The proprietary AC bead technology genuinely differentiates this product from cheaper BPO alternatives by managing oil while preserving hydration, and the inclusion of glycerin meaningfully cushions the classic BPO dryness. With a comedogenic rating of 0/5, a clean ingredient list free from fragrances and parabens, and confirmed safety for fungal acne-prone skin, this is a standout formula in its category. The main caveats are well-known to BPO users: dryness and peeling during the adaptation period, fabric bleaching risk, and mandatory daily SPF. If you can commit to pairing it with a good moisturizer and sunscreen, Benzac AC 5% is a dermatologist-trusted, pharmacy-grade solution that earns its reputation as one of the best moderate-strength acne gels on the market.
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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Anisate
Antimicrobial, Flavoring Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Poloxamer 182
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
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