Acne Gel 5%
Acne Gel 5%
Product Description
Product overview
Benzagel Acne Gel 5% by Benzagel is a fast-acting, over-the-counter topical treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Powered by 5% micronized Benzoyl Peroxide, it penetrates deep into pores to kill acne-causing bacteria, unclog follicles, and calm inflammation, helping to clear active breakouts while preventing new ones from forming.
Kills Acne Bacteria
Releases oxygen into pores to eliminate C. acnes bacteria, the root cause of inflammatory breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne Bacteria
Releases oxygen into pores to eliminate C. acnes bacteria, the root cause of inflammatory breakouts.
Micronized Technology
Ultra-fine particles penetrate deeper into pores for more effective bacterial targeting than standard BPO.
Unclogs Pores
Keratolytic action removes dead skin cells and excess oil that lead to blackheads and whiteheads.
Fast-Acting Results
Many users see visible reduction in redness and pimple size within 24-48 hours of application.
Dermatologist Gold Standard
Benzoyl peroxide is on the WHO Essential Medicines List and is a first-line OTC acne treatment.
No Antibiotic Resistance
Unlike topical antibiotics, bacteria do not develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide with long-term use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEOnly ~5% is systemically absorbed and rapidly metabolized to benzoic acid. Recommended by ACOG and NHS as a first-line acne treatment during pregnancy and lactation.
Contains no fatty acids, esters, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. Actually has antifungal properties beneficial for mixed acne.
The gel base contains no pore-clogging ingredients. Water and alcohol-based vehicle won't contribute to new breakouts.
Can increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is essential when using this product, even on cloudy days.
Can discolor towels, pillowcases, clothing, and hair. Use white bedding and rinse hands thoroughly after application.
Using with retinol, tretinoin, or adapalene simultaneously can cause severe irritation. Alternate AM/PM or use on different days.
Mild to moderate dryness, peeling, or redness is common, especially during the first 2-4 weeks. Pair with a gentle moisturizer.
Apply to small area once daily for 3 days before full-face use. Stop immediately if severe burning, hives, or swelling occurs.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5%Proven
The gold standard OTC acne-fighting ingredient. Benzoyl peroxide releases oxygen into pores, creating an environment where anaerobic C. acnes bacteria cannot survive. It also has keratolytic and mild anti-inflammatory properties, clearing dead skin cells and reducing redness around active lesions.
- Clinical Evidence: A landmark study published in the International Journal of Dermatology (Mills et al., 1986) showed 2.5%, 5%, and 10% concentrations are equally effective, but higher concentrations cause more irritation.
- Mechanism: Percutaneous absorption is approximately 5% after topical application, with absorbed BPO rapidly converted in the skin to benzoic acid and excreted via urine.
- WHO Status: Recognized on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines since its introduction as an acne treatment in the 1930s.
- No Resistance: Unlike antibiotics such as clindamycin or erythromycin, bacteria do not develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide, making it ideal for long-term use.
Alcohol (Denatured) ~14%Functional
Acts as a solvent for benzoyl peroxide and a penetration enhancer, allowing the active to reach deeper skin layers. Also provides a light, quick-drying matte finish and has mild antibacterial properties of its own.
- Function: Dissolves hydrophobic benzoyl peroxide and helps micronize particles for better skin penetration.
- Consideration: May contribute to dryness for those with dry or sensitive skin; oily skin types typically tolerate it well.
Carbomer (Carbopol 940) ~1%Functional
A high-molecular-weight acrylic acid polymer used to create the signature gel texture. It's inert, non-irritating, and helps the formula spread evenly and stay in place on the skin.
- Safety: Due to its large molecular size, carbomer has minimal skin penetration and is considered an inert, non-reactive ingredient.
Diheptyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate (Docusate Sodium) <1%Supporting
A mild surfactant and wetting agent that improves the product's spreadability and helps benzoyl peroxide disperse evenly across the skin's surface for uniform treatment.
- Role: Emulsifies the formula and increases skin contact area of the active ingredient.
Parfum (Fragrance) TraceSensory
Added in small amounts to mask the natural smell of benzoyl peroxide. While the level is minimal, those with very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin should patch test first.
- Consideration: Fragrance is one of the most common skincare allergens; reactive skin may prefer fragrance-free alternatives.
Methyl Salicylate TraceSensory
A wintergreen-derived compound contributing to the scent profile. Present in very small amounts for olfactory purposes rather than therapeutic effect.
- Note: At trace levels used here, systemic salicylate absorption is negligible and not considered a pregnancy concern.
Sodium Hydroxide pH AdjusterFunctional
A pH-adjusting agent used in tiny quantities to neutralize the formula and keep it compatible with skin. Fully neutralized in the final product.
- Function: Ensures the gel has a skin-friendly pH to maximize BPO stability and minimize irritation.
Water (Aqua) BaseVehicle
Purified water serves as the primary solvent and delivery vehicle. Combined with the alcohol-gel system, it creates a lightweight, non-greasy texture that layers well under other products.
- Quality: Purified and deionized pharmaceutical-grade water ensures formula purity and stability.
8 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide (5%), Alcohol, Carbomer (Carbopol 940), Diheptyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate (Docusate Sodium), Parfum (Fragrance), Methyl Salicylate, Sodium Hydroxide, Water (Aqua).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning on fully dry skin, before moisturizer. Wait 1-2 minutes for the gel to fully absorb before layering. Always finish your morning routine with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
How to use
HOW TO USEPatch Test (New Users)
Apply a small amount to a discreet area once daily for 3 days. If no severe irritation, proceed to full use.
Cleanse & Dry
Wash your face with a gentle, non-acne cleanser and pat completely dry. Applying to damp skin increases irritation.
Apply Thin Layer
Squeeze a pea-sized amount and spread a thin layer over affected areas or entire face. Avoid eyes, lips, and nostrils.
Start Slow
Begin with once-daily application (evenings preferred). Gradually increase to twice daily if tolerated after 1-2 weeks.
Moisturize & Protect
Always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Be Patient
Visible improvements typically appear in 2-4 weeks. Full results are expected within 6-8 weeks of consistent use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (red pimples, papules, pustules)
- You have oily or combination skin that tolerates actives well
- You want a proven, drugstore-priced OTC acne treatment
- You need something safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- You're looking for fast spot-treatment action on breakouts
- You've built up tolerance to lower BPO strengths (2.5%)
- You want an antibiotic-free, non-prescription solution
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- You have rosacea (though some tolerate it — patch test first)
- You have an allergy to benzoyl peroxide
- You have primarily cystic or severe nodular acne (see dermatologist)
- You have mostly comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads — try adapalene)
- You can't commit to daily SPF use
- You're currently using prescription retinoids simultaneously
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESReduces excess sebum, controls shine, and dries matte — ideal for oily, breakout-prone skin.
Works well on oily T-zone; apply spot-only on drier cheek areas to avoid over-drying.
Gold-standard treatment for inflammatory acne. Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe.
Alcohol base and BPO can be very drying. Use as spot treatment only and layer rich moisturizer.
High irritation potential. Consider the 2.5% Spot-On instead, or azelaic acid for a gentler option.
Effective for adult acne but can be drying. Always pair with antioxidant serum and hydrating moisturizer.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSExisting Pimples Visibly Smaller
Many users report that active whiteheads and inflamed pimples appear reduced in size and redness overnight, especially when used as a spot treatment.
~75% noticeInitial Purging & Dryness
Expect some flaking, dryness, and possibly a brief worsening ("purge") as hidden clogs surface. This is normal and temporary.
~60% experienceClearer, Calmer Skin
Inflammatory acne begins to subside. Fewer new breakouts, less redness, and noticeably smoother skin texture.
~80% noticeFull Clearance
Maximum clinical effect typically reached. Most users see significant reduction in active lesions and fewer recurring breakouts.
~85% achieveMaintenance Phase
Continued use keeps skin clear. Many users reduce to once-daily or alternate-day application to maintain results.
~90% maintainRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dramatic overnight reduction in pimple size and redness
- Clinically proven 5% concentration — WHO Essential Medicine
- No antibiotic resistance risk with long-term use
- Micronized formula penetrates pores more effectively
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Health Canada approved (DIN 02162113)
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture
- Affordable drugstore pricing
- One tube lasts a long time (a little goes far)
Criticized
- Can cause significant dryness and peeling, especially early on
- Contains alcohol (~14%) and added fragrance
- Bleaches towels, pillowcases, and dyed fabrics
- Increases sun sensitivity — daily SPF required
- Not suitable for very sensitive or reactive skin
- May cause allergic reaction in some users (hives, swelling)
- Smaller tube sizes compared to some competitors
- Less effective for comedonal (blackhead/whitehead) acne
- Can worsen skin barrier if overused
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher 10% concentration (more irritating but very similar mechanism). Simpler, fragrance-free formula at a lower price per gram. Widely available in US drugstores.
Bare-bones generic BPO gel at rock-bottom pricing. Lacks micronization and has simpler base, but the active ingredient works the same way.
A drugstore classic with 10% BPO in a lightweight gel. Slightly greasier feel than Benzagel's alcohol-based formula but widely accessible.
Wash-off BPO cleanser with the same 5% concentration. Less potent due to shorter contact time but more beginner-friendly and less drying.
4% BPO plus ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Much gentler than Benzagel and great for sensitive acne-prone skin, but rinse-off only.
Totally different active (azelaic acid), but also treats inflammatory acne with less irritation. Better for sensitive or post-inflammatory-pigmentation-prone skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if color, smell, or texture changes.
Store at controlled room temperature 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep away from heat, direct sunlight, and humidity.
Squeeze tube with threaded cap (available in 15g, 30g, and 60g sizes).
Yes — all sizes are well under 100ml TSA carry-on limit. The 15g is especially compact.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Benzoyl peroxide is considered one of the safest topical acne treatments during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Only about 5% is systemically absorbed, and any absorbed amount is rapidly converted in the body to benzoic acid (a common food preservative) and excreted through urine. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), NHS, and American Academy of Dermatology all list benzoyl peroxide as a first-line acne option for pregnancy. When breastfeeding, avoid applying to the chest area to prevent infant contact. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist for personalized advice.
Yes. Benzagel is completely fungal-acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. Better still, benzoyl peroxide itself has antifungal properties against Malassezia, making this product useful for people with mixed bacterial and fungal acne. The only 8 ingredients — benzoyl peroxide, alcohol, carbomer, docusate sodium, fragrance, methyl salicylate, sodium hydroxide, and water — are all fungal-acne compatible.
Use caution when combining. Withretinol or tretinoin: avoid applying at the same time (BPO can oxidize tretinoin and both cause irritation). Best strategy is BPO in AM, retinoid in PM, or alternate nights. Withvitamin C: BPO can oxidize ascorbic acid, reducing its effectiveness. Use vitamin C in the morning and BPO at night. WithAHAs (glycolic, lactic): don't layer on the same day — alternate or use at different times. Withsalicylic acid (BHA): can be combined cautiously but doubles the risk of irritation; many dermatologists suggest alternating nights. Always moisturize well and introduce actives one at a time.
It works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types that can tolerate active ingredients. The alcohol-gel base dries down to a matte finish, which suits those who struggle with excess shine. People with dry, sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-prone skin should approach with caution — consider starting with the 2.5% Benzagel Spot-On version, using it only as a spot treatment, or switching to a gentler formula like CeraVe Acne 4% or Paula's Choice CLEAR 2.5%. Always patch test first.
When used as a spot treatment, many users notice visible reduction in individual pimple redness and size within 24-48 hours. For full-face acne treatment, expect to see initial improvement within 2-4 weeks, with maximum clinical effect reached at 6-8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. The first 1-2 weeks often involve some dryness, peeling, and possibly a brief "purge" as hidden comedones surface — this is normal. If you see no improvement after 8 weeks of consistent use, consult a dermatologist for prescription options.
Apply Benzagel after cleansing and toning on completely dry skin, before moisturizer. The exact order is: (1) Cleanser → (2) Toner (optional) → (3) Benzagel (wait 1-2 minutes for absorption) → (4) Moisturizer → (5) Sunscreen (mornings only, SPF 30+). Avoid applying to damp skin as this increases irritation. If using other actives like retinol, alternate them on different days or time them to opposite ends of the day. Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable while using this product.
No — Benzagel has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula contains no pore-clogging oils, butters, heavy emollients, or fatty ingredients. In fact, benzoyl peroxide is actively pore-clearing: it has keratolytic action that removes dead skin cells and excess sebum from inside pores, helping to clear existing blackheads and prevent new comedones. The alcohol-water gel vehicle dries clean with no residue. This makes it an excellent choice for congested, oily, or breakout-prone skin.
Benzagel has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C / 68-77°F), away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and high humidity — bathroom counters can shorten shelf life. Benzoyl peroxide is sensitive to heat and light; exposure can degrade the active and, in rare cases, cause benzene formation. Discard the product if the color darkens, the texture separates, or the scent changes. Always check the expiration date printed on the tube and never use past that date.
Verdict: Benzagel Acne Gel 5% is a clinically-backed, Health Canada-approved acne treatment that delivers the gold standard of OTC acne-fighting ingredients — 5% micronized benzoyl peroxide — in a fast-absorbing gel. It's especially effective for oily and combination skin struggling with inflammatory breakouts, and it's pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal-acne safe. The short 8-ingredient formula is a plus, though the inclusion of alcohol and fragrance makes it less ideal for sensitive or dry skin types. Users with mild-to-moderate acne who can commit to daily moisturizer and SPF will likely see significant clearing within 4-8 weeks. For a drugstore-priced staple with real clinical muscle, Benzagel remains a reliable 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
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
|
|
| 0 |
Carbon
|
|
|
| 0 |
Diheptyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Parfum
Masking, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|