Adapalene Cream, 0.1%
Adapalene Cream, 0.1%
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength topical retinoid cream delivering 0.1% adapalene — a third-generation vitamin A derivative clinically proven to treat mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. Formulated in a lightweight aqueous emulsion with skin-conditioning squalane and glycerin, it works deep within the pore to normalize cell turnover, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts with less irritation than older retinoids.
Third-Generation Retinoid
Adapalene selectively binds retinoic acid receptors (RAR-β and RAR-γ) to modulate cell differentiation and keratinization — clearing existing breakouts while preventing new ones from forming deep in the pore.
Texture & feel
SENSORYThird-Generation Retinoid
Adapalene selectively binds retinoic acid receptors (RAR-β and RAR-γ) to modulate cell differentiation and keratinization — clearing existing breakouts while preventing new ones from forming deep in the pore.
Anti-Inflammatory Action
Unlike tretinoin, adapalene has direct anti-inflammatory properties that help calm the redness and swelling associated with inflamed papules and pustules, making it gentler on reactive skin.
Skin-Conditioning Emulsion
Enriched with squalane and glycerin, this cream vehicle actively supports the skin barrier to minimize the typical dryness and peeling associated with retinoid initiation.
Once-Daily Evening Use
A single pea-sized application at bedtime to the entire face treats active breakouts, unclogs pores, improves skin texture, and reduces post-acne hyperpigmentation over time.
Photostable Molecule
Adapalene is photostable, meaning it does not degrade in UV light like tretinoin — making it more stable in the formulation and less reactive when sunscreen is applied the following morning.
Clinically Proven Efficacy
Two pivotal vehicle-controlled clinical studies in patients aged 12–30 with mild-to-moderate acne demonstrated statistically significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts after 12 weeks of use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENOT recommended. Adapalene is a retinoid; topical retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential teratogenicity. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
Yes — this formula does not contain fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 1/5 comedogenic. Cyclomethicone and squalane are both low-comedogenic. Adapalene itself actively works to unclog pores, making this formula safe for acne-prone and pore-congested skin.
Retinoids increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning during treatment. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds.
Avoid combining with sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid products simultaneously. Use caution with vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs — introduce gradually to minimize irritation.
Contains methylparaben and propylparaben as preservatives. If you are paraben-sensitive or prefer paraben-free formulations, consider Differin Gel or Taro Adapalene 0.1% Gel alternatives.
Contains no added fragrance or essential oils, making it suitable for fragrance-sensitive individuals and those prone to contact dermatitis.
Clinically tested and indicated for patients 12 years of age and older. Not evaluated in children under 12. Use only under medical supervision for minors.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAdapalene 0.1%Proven
The star active ingredient — a synthetic third-generation retinoid derived from naphthoic acid. Unlike tretinoin, adapalene is selective for RAR-β and RAR-γ receptors, reducing acne formation while generating less skin irritation. It normalizes follicular keratinization (preventing plugging), reduces microcomedone formation, and has direct anti-inflammatory activity against acne-causing Cutibacterium acnes.
- Mechanism: Modulates cellular differentiation and keratinization via nuclear retinoic acid receptors.
- Clinical Data: Pivotal trials showed significant reductions in inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts versus vehicle after 12 weeks.
- Absorption: Skin absorption is minimal — pharmacokinetic studies found no quantifiable plasma levels at therapeutic doses, indicating a favorable systemic safety profile.
- Photostability: Unlike tretinoin, adapalene does not degrade upon UV exposure — more stable in daily use.
Squalane ~1–3%Proven
A stable, hydrogenated derivative of squalene (naturally found in human sebum). Squalane is an exceptional emollient that reinforces the skin barrier, prevents transepidermal water loss, and counteracts the dryness and peeling associated with retinoid use — without clogging pores or feeding Malassezia yeast.
- Comedogenic Rating: 1/5 — extremely low risk of pore congestion.
- Fungal Acne Safe: Yes — squalane is not a fatty acid or ester, so it does not feed Malassezia.
- Barrier Function: Mimics skin's natural lipids to restore and maintain a healthy moisture barrier.
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, maintaining hydration throughout the day. Glycerin also supports the skin's natural microbiome and has mild anti-inflammatory properties, helping to buffer the irritation potential of adapalene.
- Humectant Action: Attracts and retains water molecules in the stratum corneum.
- Safety: One of the most well-tolerated cosmetic ingredients — rated non-irritating, non-sensitizing across all skin types.
Cyclomethicone ~2–4%Promising
A cyclic volatile silicone that improves the spreadability and skin feel of the cream without leaving a heavy or greasy residue. It evaporates quickly after application, contributing to the lightweight, non-occlusive finish. Cyclomethicone is considered low-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin.
- Function: Slip agent and texture enhancer — enables uniform, thin application across the face.
- Comedogenic Rating: 1/5 — low risk.
Carbomer (934P) <1%Proven
A polymer of acrylic acid that provides the cream's gel-like emulsion structure and viscosity. Carbomer helps keep the formula stable, ensures even distribution of active ingredients, and is widely considered safe in concentrations up to 15%. At the low levels used in this product, pilling is unlikely.
- Function: Thickener, emulsion stabilizer, and texture former.
- Safety: Non-irritating and non-sensitizing at cosmetic concentrations. CIR Expert Panel approved.
Triethanolamine (Trolamine) traceProven
A pH adjuster used to neutralize the carbomer and bring the formula to a skin-compatible pH range. The pH of the finished product influences both the stability of adapalene and the skin's barrier function. Used at trace amounts — not a functional active.
- Function: pH buffering agent — ensures formula compatibility with skin's natural pH.
Methylparaben & Propylparaben traceProven
A paraben preservative duo that prevents microbial contamination (bacteria, mold, yeast) throughout the product's shelf life. Methylparaben can also be found naturally in some fruits. While parabens have faced public scrutiny, the FDA and CIR have found them safe at typical cosmetic concentrations.
- Function: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservatives.
- Safety Status: Considered safe by FDA, EU (within limits), and CIR Panel. Ongoing studies continue to review long-term endocrine impact — opt for paraben-free alternatives if you prefer extra caution.
Disodium EDTA traceProven
A chelating agent (disodium salt of edetic acid) that binds trace metal ions in the formula, preventing them from destabilizing other ingredients including the preservatives. Disodium EDTA enhances the efficacy of the paraben preservative system and contributes to overall product stability.
- Function: Chelating agent and preservative booster.
- Safety: Rated safe by CIR at concentrations up to 1.9% in cosmetic products.
Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate & PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate ~1–3%Promising
A pair of glucose-derived emulsifiers that stabilize the oil-in-water emulsion, allowing water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients to blend uniformly. Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate provides rich emolliency, while the PEG-20 version increases the hydrophilic balance for a lighter, more spreadable texture.
- Function: Emulsifiers and skin-conditioning agents.
- Fungal Acne Concern: Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate contains ester linkages — some FA-safe databases flag glucose esters as potentially problematic for Malassezia, though clinical evidence is limited. The overall formula is generally considered FA-safe.
Phenoxyethanol <1%Proven
A widely used synthetic preservative with broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria and some fungi. Used in combination with the paraben system to provide complete preservation coverage. Well tolerated at cosmetic concentrations; the EU limits its use to 1%.
- Function: Secondary preservative — antimicrobial and antifungal.
- Safety: Approved by FDA and EU at concentrations up to 1%. Safe for use in leave-on products for most adults.
13 ingredients — Adapalene 0.1%, Carbomer, Cyclomethicone, Disodium EDTA, Glycerin, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Methylparaben, PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Phenoxyethanol, Propylparaben, Water (Aqua), Squalane, Triethanolamine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply adapalene cream as step 3, after cleansing and any water-based toner has fully dried. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to help buffer retinoid irritation. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser and pat skin completely dry. Applying adapalene to damp skin increases absorption and risk of irritation. Wait at least 10–15 minutes after washing before applying.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount of cream (approximately 0.1g) to your fingertip. This is enough to cover the entire face. Using more does not improve results and significantly increases the risk of irritation, peeling, and dryness.
Apply to the Entire Affected Area
Gently spread a thin, even layer over the entire face (or affected area). Do not spot-treat only — adapalene works best as a whole-face treatment to prevent new microcomedones from forming. Avoid the corners of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Let It Absorb, Then Moisturize
Allow 2–3 minutes for the cream to absorb before layering a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer on top. This "buffering" technique helps reduce peeling and dryness, especially during the first 4–8 weeks. Ceramide-based or squalane moisturizers pair especially well.
Use Once Nightly — Be Consistent
Apply every evening as prescribed. If irritation becomes severe during the first weeks, you may use every other night until your skin adapts. Do NOT increase frequency — once daily is the clinically validated dosing. Consistency is critical: 8–12 weeks of uninterrupted use is required to see significant clearing.
Apply Sunscreen Every Morning
Retinoids dramatically increase photosensitivity. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning as the final step of your AM routine. This is non-negotiable — UV exposure without protection can worsen hyperpigmentation and reduce treatment efficacy.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris (whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules)
- You want a prescription-strength retinoid cream with extra skin-conditioning emollients
- Your skin tends to be normal-to-dry and you find gel formulas too stripping
- You're looking to also improve skin texture, pore appearance, and post-acne marks over time
- You are sensitive to fragrance and prefer fragrance-free formulations
- You are 12 years of age or older and have been prescribed adapalene by your doctor
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- You are under 12 years of age
- You prefer a 100% paraben-free formula (choose Differin Gel instead)
- You have very oily skin and prefer a matte, non-creamy gel texture
- You need OTC access without a prescription (the 0.1% cream strength requires Rx)
- You have eczema, sunburned, or cut/abraded skin where this product should not be applied
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWorks well for oily, acne-prone skin, though the cream vehicle is slightly richer than a gel. Very oily skin types may prefer the Differin Gel formulation for a lighter, more matte finish.
The cream emulsion with squalane and glycerin makes this far more tolerable for dry skin than gel adapalene. The added emollients help offset retinoid-induced dryness and flaking significantly.
Ideal for combination skin. The lightweight cream hydrates drier areas while the adapalene actively targets oily, breakout-prone zones — achieving balanced, clearer skin over time.
Can be used with caution — adapt with every-other-night application and strong barrier support (ceramide moisturizer). The fragrance-free formula is a plus. Initial purging and irritation may be more pronounced in very sensitive skin.
This is the primary indication — adapalene is one of the most evidence-backed topical treatments for acne vulgaris. Non-comedogenic formula, no pore-clogging ingredients, and directly targets the root cause of breakouts.
Normal skin with occasional breakouts or textural concerns benefits greatly. Low risk of over-drying, and the squalane-containing cream base maintains comfortable hydration throughout treatment.
Results timeline
MONTH 4–6Initial Adjustment — Possible Purging Begins
Skin may look slightly worse as adapalene accelerates the turnover of existing microcomedones to the surface. Mild redness, dryness, and flaking are common and expected. Do not stop — this is a sign the product is working.
~70% notice initial adjustmentPeak Irritation — Breakthrough Purging
Irritation and purging typically peak during weeks 3–4. The skin is still adapting. Some users report temporary worsening of acne. Maintain consistency, use a barrier-supporting moisturizer, and avoid other actives during this phase.
~50% experience peak purgingStabilization — First Signs of Clearing
Skin begins to tolerate adapalene better. New breakouts start to slow, and existing pimples resolve faster. Skin texture may begin to feel smoother, and pores appear slightly less congested. Overall clinical benefit becomes visible.
~60% notice initial improvementConsistent Clearing — Clinically Significant Reduction
Clinical studies demonstrated statistically significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts at the 12-week mark. Most users experience noticeably fewer breakouts, improved skin texture, and reduced post-acne marks.
~80% notice significant clearingLong-Term Maintenance — Clear, Refined Skin
Continued use consolidates results. Pores appear tighter, hyperpigmentation fades, and skin texture becomes notably smoother. Anti-aging benefits (fine line reduction, improved skin renewal) also begin to appear with sustained use.
~90% satisfied with long-term resultsRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven efficacy against mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris
- Third-generation retinoid with lower irritation profile than tretinoin
- Cream vehicle with squalane is more hydrating than gel adapalene — ideal for drier skin types
- Completely fragrance-free formulation
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores
- Photostable molecule — more stable than tretinoin
- Anti-inflammatory in addition to anti-comedogenic activity
- Minimal systemic absorption — excellent topical safety profile
- Improves skin texture and fades post-acne hyperpigmentation over time
- Affordable generic Rx alternative to branded adapalene products
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not OTC accessible at cream 0.1% strength
- Contains methylparaben and propylparaben — a concern for paraben-avoiders
- Initial 4–8 week purging phase can be alarming for first-time users
- Increases sun sensitivity — requires strict daily sunscreen use
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Slower results than spot treatments — 8–12 weeks of consistent use required
- Cream may feel slightly rich for very oily skin types vs. gel alternatives
- Avoid with wax epilation on treated skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The brand-name 0.1% adapalene — available OTC. Same active ingredient and concentration, but in a gel (not cream) vehicle. Paraben-free, slightly more matte finish. Better for oily skin; slightly drying for dry skin types. The go-to reference product for this active.
A paraben-free generic adapalene gel at the same 0.1% concentration. Simpler base formula without squalane or glycerin emollients. More budget-friendly, but the gel texture may be drier. Excellent for oily-to-combination skin types seeking a paraben-free Rx alternative.
Another paraben-free OTC generic adapalene gel. Contains poloxamer 182 and propylene glycol as the base vehicle rather than a cream emulsion. Good efficacy at a competitive price point. Lacks the moisturizing squalane of the Perrigo cream formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if the cream changes color, develops an unusual odor, or texture separates.
Store at controlled room temperature 20°C–25°C (68°F–77°F). Keep away from heat, direct sunlight, and freezing temperatures. Store in the original tube, tightly closed.
Collapsible aluminum or plastic tube, 45g. Tube format minimizes air exposure and oxidation of the formula. Each pea-sized application is approximately 0.1–0.15g.
Yes — the 45g tube is under the TSA 100ml limit. Secure the cap tightly to prevent accidental dispensing. A 45g tube typically provides 3–6 months of once-daily full-face applications.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo — Perrigo Adapalene Cream 0.1% is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Adapalene is a retinoid (vitamin A derivative), and all retinoids are contraindicated in pregnancy due to the potential for teratogenicity (risk of birth defects). Although systemic absorption from topical adapalene is minimal, the risk is not zero. The FDA has not established a safe level of retinoid exposure during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, stop use immediately and consult your dermatologist or OB-GYN about pregnancy-safe acne alternatives such as topical azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or certain topical antibiotics.
Yes — Perrigo Adapalene Cream 0.1% is generally considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula does not contain fatty acids, polysorbates, fermented ingredients, or high concentrations of fatty esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Squalane and cyclomethicone, both present in this cream, are considered fungal acne-safe. The glucose-derived emulsifiers (Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate and PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate) are ester-containing but are used in minimal concentrations and have not been clinically demonstrated to exacerbate fungal acne. If you have a confirmed Malassezia folliculitis diagnosis, consult your dermatologist for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Use with caution. Adapalene is already a potent retinoid, so combining it with other retinol products is unnecessary and may cause significant irritation — avoid. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid at low pH) can be used, but apply it in the morning and adapalene at night to avoid layering them together. AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) should not be applied simultaneously with adapalene — the FDA label specifically advises against combining adapalene with salicylic acid, sulfur, or resorcinol. If you use chemical exfoliants, use them on alternate nights initially, or transition to using adapalene every night once your skin has fully adapted (typically after 8–12 weeks). Always introduce any new active ingredient gradually when using a retinoid.
Perrigo Adapalene Cream 0.1% is best suited for dry-to-combination and acne-prone skin types. The cream vehicle — enriched with squalane and glycerin — provides significantly more hydration and barrier support than gel adapalene formulations, making it particularly advantageous for those who experience dryness, flaking, or irritation on gel versions. Oily skin types may find the cream slightly richer than ideal and may prefer the Differin Adapalene Gel for a more matte, non-comedogenic finish. All skin types can use adapalene, but the formulation choice (cream vs. gel) should be matched to your skin's moisture needs.
Overall clinical benefit typically begins to appear after 2–4 weeks, but consistent and significant clearing requires at least 8–12 weeks of uninterrupted daily use. Clinical trials confirmed statistically significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesion counts at the 12-week mark. The first 4–8 weeks often involve a purging phase where existing microcomedones are accelerated to the surface — this is normal and expected. Many users find that maximum results become apparent around the 3–6 month mark with long-term improvements in skin texture, pore size, and post-acne hyperpigmentation continuing beyond 6 months. Do not stop using the product during the purging phase — consistency is the most critical factor in achieving results.
Adapalene Cream 0.1% is applied in the evening, after cleansing and any toner has fully dried. Apply a pea-sized amount as a thin, even layer over the entire face before your moisturizer. The correct PM routine order is: (1) Gentle cleanser → (2) Toner (optional, allow to dry) → (3) Adapalene Cream 0.1% → (4) Non-comedogenic moisturizer. In your AM routine, skip adapalene entirely and focus on: cleanser → moisturizer → broad-spectrum SPF 30+. Do not use adapalene in the morning — it is a prescription treatment designed for once-daily nighttime application. Applying sunscreen every single morning is non-negotiable when using any retinoid.
No — Perrigo Adapalene Cream 0.1% is rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale, which is considered very low risk. The key ingredients are non-pore-clogging: adapalene itself actively unclogs pores by normalizing follicular keratinization; squalane rates 1/5; cyclomethicone rates 1/5; glycerin is non-comedogenic. This cream is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and will not worsen pore congestion. In fact, consistent use actively reduces comedones (both blackheads and whiteheads) over time.
Perrigo Adapalene Cream 0.1% has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 45g tube typically lasts 3–6 months with consistent once-daily whole-face application (using approximately a pea-sized amount per use). Store tightly capped at room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C), away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Discard if the cream changes color, develops an unusual smell, or if the texture separates, regardless of remaining PAO window. The tube packaging helps minimize oxidation, extending the effective shelf life compared to jar-format products.
Verdict: Perrigo Adapalene Cream 0.1% is a clinically proven, prescription-strength retinoid treatment for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris with a meaningfully superior vehicle compared to standard adapalene gels. The inclusion of squalane and glycerin in the aqueous cream base makes this formulation significantly better tolerated for dry-to-combination skin types that struggle with the dryness and flaking typical of gel retinoids. The fragrance-free formula, non-comedogenic profile, and minimal systemic absorption make it a safe and effective long-term acne treatment. Its key limitations are the prescription requirement at this concentration and strength, the presence of parabens in the preservative system (which some users prefer to avoid), and the 8–12 week commitment required before seeing consistent clearing. If you have dry or combination acne-prone skin and your dermatologist has prescribed adapalene, this cream formulation from Perrigo delivers clinically validated results in a more hydrating, skin-friendly package than most gel alternatives.
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):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclomethicone
Antistatic Agent, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Humectant, Solvent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|