Alpha Beta 2% BHA Breakout Solution
Alpha Beta 2% BHA Breakout Solution
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed daily acne treatment liquid with 2% salicylic acid plus four additional acids (lactic, pyruvic, phytic, and azelaic) to clear breakouts, unclog pores, smooth texture, and fade post-acne marks — all while hydrating with hyaluronic acid and soothing with turmeric extract.
5-Acid Multi-Attack Complex
Combines salicylic, lactic, pyruvic, phytic, and azelaic acids to target acne from multiple angles — unclogging pores, exfoliating surface cells, calming inflammation, and fading dark spots.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5-Acid Multi-Attack Complex
Combines salicylic, lactic, pyruvic, phytic, and azelaic acids to target acne from multiple angles — unclogging pores, exfoliating surface cells, calming inflammation, and fading dark spots.
Hydrating While Treating
Sodium hyaluronate and xylitol maintain moisture levels so skin stays hydrated and balanced even while active acids work to clear breakouts.
Turmeric-Derived Soothing
Tetrahydrocurcumin (a turmeric derivative) calms redness and helps reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation for a more even skin tone.
Clinically Proven Results
Clinical studies show improved pore appearance in 1 week, smoother texture in 2 weeks, and 86% showed improved dark spots after 4 weeks of daily use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid (BHA). While low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low-risk, many dermatologists advise caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (ferment), Glyceryl Stearate (ester), Stearic Acid (fatty acid), and Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate which may feed malassezia yeast.
Lightweight liquid formula with minimal pore-clogging risk. Most ingredients rate 0-1 on the comedogenic scale.
Not tested on animals and free from animal-derived ingredients. Also free from parabens, phthalates, and sulfates.
Denatured alcohol is the second ingredient, which can be drying for some skin types. The formula compensates with humectants like hyaluronic acid and xylitol, but sensitive or dry skin may need extra moisturizer.
BHA and AHA acids increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day when using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
The gold-standard BHA for acne treatment. Oil-soluble, so it penetrates deep into pores to dissolve the mix of sebum and dead cells causing blockages. Also has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mechanism: Dissolves intercellular lipids to exfoliate inside the pore lining
- Efficacy: 2% is the maximum OTC concentration allowed by the FDA for acne treatment
- Research: Extensive clinical evidence supporting BHA for comedonal and inflammatory acne
Azelaic Acid UndisclosedProven
A dicarboxylic acid with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening properties. Targets P. acnes bacteria, reduces redness, and helps inhibit melanin production to fade post-acne hyperpigmentation.
- Antibacterial: Effective against Cutibacterium acnes (the bacteria behind breakouts)
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce hyperpigmentation
- Research: Clinically proven effective for acne and rosacea at prescription strengths (15-20%)
Lactic Acid UndisclosedProven
A gentle AHA that exfoliates the skin surface by loosening dead cell bonds. Unlike BHAs, it is water-soluble and works on the surface. Also acts as a humectant, helping skin retain moisture.
- Dual action: Exfoliates dead cells while simultaneously hydrating
- Dark spots: Helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time
- Fine lines: Promotes cell turnover for smoother-looking skin
Phytic Acid UndisclosedPromising
An extremely gentle AHA primarily valued as an antioxidant and chelating agent. Helps regulate oil production and protects the skin's moisture barrier while providing mild exfoliation.
- Antioxidant: Chelates metal ions that can trigger oxidative stress
- Oil regulation: Helps normalize sebum production
- Gentle: Among the mildest AHAs, suitable for more reactive skin
Pyruvic Acid UndisclosedPromising
An alpha-keto acid with exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties. Known for calming reactive, red, and irritated skin while promoting cell renewal.
- Anti-inflammatory: Particularly effective at calming red, angry skin
- Cell renewal: Supports healthy skin turnover
Sodium Hyaluronate UndisclosedProven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin. Attracts and retains moisture to keep skin hydrated while active acids work to clear breakouts.
- Hydration: Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water
- Barrier support: Helps maintain skin's moisture barrier during acid treatment
Tetrahydrocurcumin (Turmeric) UndisclosedPromising
A potent derivative of curcumin from turmeric. A powerful antioxidant that helps speed wound healing (post-pimple recovery) and inhibits melanin production for brighter, more even skin.
- Antioxidant: More stable and potent than curcumin itself
- Wound healing: Supports skin recovery after breakouts
- Brightening: Helps limit melanin production for even skin tone
36 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2%
Inactive Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Alcohol Denat, Propylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Lactic Acid, Pyruvic Acid, Phytic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Carnitine HCl, Xylitol, Caprylic Acid, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Farnesol, Tetrahydrocurcumin, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Soy Isoflavones, Saccharide Isomerate, Zinc PCA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate, PEG-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Hexylresorcinol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Propanediol, C13-15 Alkane, Potassium Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Citric Acid, Calcium Gluconate, Sodium Citrate, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Water, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on clean, dry skin. Use in PM routine primarily. Always follow with moisturizer and SPF in the morning. Can be used AM and PM once skin has adjusted.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. The product works best on clean, dry skin.
Saturate a Cotton Pad
Place a cotton ball or pad over the pump and press 2-3 times to saturate. Alternatively, pump directly onto fingertips.
Apply to Affected Areas
Gently swipe over the entire face or target breakout-prone areas. Avoid the eye contour and any broken skin.
Start Slowly
Begin with one application daily (PM preferred). Gradually increase to 2-3 times daily if tolerated. Because excessive drying may occur, build up frequency over 1-2 weeks.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Allow to absorb, then apply your regular moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ as acids increase sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You experience recurring acne breakouts and congested pores
- You want a multi-acid approach that goes beyond basic salicylic acid
- You struggle with post-acne dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- You need an acne treatment that also hydrates (not just strips)
- You have oily or combination skin with textural concerns
- You want a dermatologist-formulated, clinically tested product
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — contains salicylic acid
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin — alcohol denat. may aggravate
- You are on a tight budget — at ~$42, there are more affordable BHA options
- You have extremely sensitive or compromised skin barrier
- You are already using prescription retinoids or strong exfoliants
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. BHA cuts through excess oil, unclogs pores, and the matte finish won't add shine. Multiple acids work synergistically to control sebum.
Great for balancing oily T-zone while hyaluronic acid and xylitol keep drier areas hydrated. Apply to congested zones first.
Specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Clinically proven to treat 6 types of acne including blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory breakouts.
Works well for occasional breakouts and maintaining clear pores. May be unnecessary for daily use if breakouts are rare — consider 2-3x per week.
Alcohol denat. as the second ingredient may be too drying. If used, start with once every other day and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
The 5-acid blend plus alcohol denat. can be intense for reactive skin. Patch test required. Start very slowly with once-weekly application and build up.
Results timeline
WEEK 4-8Visible Blemish Improvement
Active pimples begin to flatten and reduce in redness. Pores appear cleaner after first few applications. Mild tingling is normal as acids activate.
100% said blemishes improved after 1 day*Pore Refinement & Smoother Texture
Pore appearance visibly improved. Skin texture starts to feel smoother and more refined. Some users may experience mild purging as congestion clears.
Clinically proven pore improvement in 1 weekReduced Breakouts & Clearer Complexion
Frequency and severity of breakouts decrease noticeably. Skin texture visibly smoother. Dark spots from previous breakouts start to fade.
85% noticed fewer blemishes after 3 days*Even Skin Tone & Faded Post-Acne Marks
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation fades significantly thanks to azelaic acid and turmeric. Overall complexion is brighter, more even, and less congested.
86% showed improved dark spots after 4 weeks*Based on clinical and consumer perception studies by the brand, using the product with Alpha Beta On The Spot Gel
Ratings by platform
540+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Multi-acid approach treats acne from multiple angles simultaneously
- Clinically proven to improve 6 types of acne with visible results in days
- Includes hydrating ingredients (HA, xylitol) to prevent over-drying
- Azelaic acid targets post-acne dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Dermatologist-founded with pharmaceutical-grade actives
- Generous 150ml size lasts several months with daily use
- Vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free
- Lightweight liquid texture absorbs quickly into skin
Criticized
- Alcohol denat. is the second ingredient — can be drying and irritating
- Premium price point (~$42) vs. budget BHA options like The Ordinary
- Not fungal acne safe due to ferments, esters, and fatty acids
- Mild medicinal/alcohol scent during application
- Individual acid concentrations (except SA 2%) are undisclosed
- May cause purging during the first 1-2 weeks of use
- Contains Propylene Glycol which some people are sensitive to
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Simple 2% salicylic acid formula with only 11 ingredients. Lacks the multi-acid approach (no azelaic, lactic, pyruvic, or phytic acid) and hydrating extras. Much smaller 30ml bottle but fraction of the price per ml.
Industry-favorite 2% salicylic acid liquid with green tea extract. Simpler formula without the 4 additional acids or hydrating complex. Alcohol-free, making it gentler for sensitive skin. Slightly smaller 118ml bottle.
Uses 4% betaine salicylate (equivalent to ~2% salicylic acid) with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Gentler and more hydrating than standard BHA. Lacks the multi-acid complex but excellent for sensitive acne-prone skin. 100ml bottle.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEDr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta 2% BHA+
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed when not in use. No refrigeration required.
Opaque pump bottle that dispenses a controlled amount of liquid and protects active ingredients from light degradation.
Yes, 150ml is over the 100ml carry-on limit — decant into a smaller container for flights. Note: classified as ORM-D due to alcohol content, may have shipping restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. This product contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), which is classified as Category C during pregnancy. While topical application of low-concentration salicylic acid is generally considered low-risk by many dermatologists, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends limiting use during pregnancy. The product also contains multiple other acids. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any acid-based skincare during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (a ferment), Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate (an ester), Glyceryl Stearate, Stearic Acid (fatty acid), and Caprylic Acid. If you have fungal acne, consider the COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid as a malassezia-safe alternative.
This product already contains both BHA (salicylic acid) and AHAs (lactic, pyruvic, phytic acids), so layering additional exfoliating acids is not recommended as it can cause over-exfoliation, irritation, and barrier damage. For retinol, use on alternate nights — BHA solution one night, retinol the next. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can be used in the AM while this product is used in the PM. Always introduce one active at a time and monitor your skin's tolerance.
This product is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It works exceptionally well for those who struggle with recurring breakouts, congested pores, and post-acne hyperpigmentation. Normal skin can also benefit from occasional use (2-3x weekly). Dry and sensitive skin types should proceed with caution due to the alcohol denat. content and multi-acid formula — start slowly and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
According to the brand's clinical studies, most users notice blemish improvement within 1-3 days. Pore refinement is clinically proven in 1 week, and skin texture improvement in 2 weeks. Dark spot fading (86% of users) is typically visible after 4 weeks of consistent daily use. Some users may experience initial purging during weeks 1-2 as the acids bring congestion to the surface — this is temporary and a sign the product is working.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before serums and moisturizer. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Alpha Beta 2% BHA+ Breakout Solution → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). Apply to clean, dry skin using a cotton pad or fingertips. Wait 1-2 minutes before layering the next product to allow the acids to work effectively.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The liquid formula is lightweight and specifically designed to unclog pores rather than block them. The salicylic acid actively dissolves the sebum-dead cell mixture inside pores. While it does contain some emulsifiers and emollients (Glyceryl Stearate, Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate), these are present in small amounts and are unlikely to cause clogging for most skin types.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 150ml pump bottle typically lasts 2-4 months with once-daily full-face application (using 2-3 pumps per use). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The opaque pump bottle helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation. If the product changes color, smell, or texture, discard and replace.
Verdict: The Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta 2% BHA+ Breakout Solution stands out from basic BHA treatments by combining five active acids into one formula — tackling acne, congestion, dark spots, and uneven texture simultaneously. The addition of hydrating and soothing ingredients (hyaluronic acid, turmeric, xylitol) helps prevent the over-drying common with acid treatments. However, the high placement of alcohol denat. in the formula, lack of fungal acne safety, undisclosed individual acid concentrations, and premium price tag (~$42 vs. $6-16 for competitors) are notable drawbacks. Best for oily and acne-prone skin types who want a sophisticated, multi-tasking acne treatment and are willing to invest in a dermatologist-formulated approach.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|