AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
Product Description
Product overview
Medical-grade exfoliating peel pads by SkinBetter Science, powered by the patented AlphaRet® retinoid technology and a triple-acid complex of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids. Each individually wrapped pad delivers professional-level chemical exfoliation at home — smoothing texture, brightening tone, minimizing pores, and visibly reducing fine lines and wrinkles in as little as three weeks.
Patented AlphaRet® Technology
A breakthrough retinoid–AHA hybrid (ethyl lactyl retinoate) uniquely bonded to lactic acid, delivering retinoid skin-renewal benefits with reduced irritation compared to traditional retinol.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatented AlphaRet® Technology
A breakthrough retinoid–AHA hybrid (ethyl lactyl retinoate) uniquely bonded to lactic acid, delivering retinoid skin-renewal benefits with reduced irritation compared to traditional retinol.
Triple-Acid Complex (~20%)
A clinically studied blend of lactic acid (~6–9%), glycolic acid (~2.4–3.7%), and salicylic acid (~0.2–0.8%) working synergistically on surface, pore, and deep-skin exfoliation.
Individually Packaged Pads
Each pad is sealed separately to preserve potency of the AlphaRet molecule and prevent the pad from drying out — ensuring consistent efficacy with every use.
TSA & Travel Approved
Individually wrapped single-use pads are TSA-compliant and perfect for travel — no liquids, no spills, no mess. Bring your routine anywhere effortlessly.
Award-Winning Formula
Real Simple 2019 Road Test Winner for "Easiest to Use." Backed by clinical studies in a diverse population showing 100% of subjects experienced visibly healthier, brighter, smoother skin after 3 weeks.
Clean, Medical-Grade Formula
Free from parabens, fragrances, dyes, and sulfates. Developed in partnership with dermatologists and available only through authorized physician practices and medical spas.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate, a topical retinoid (vitamin A derivative). Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Also contains salicylic acid, which should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in high concentrations. Consult your physician before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive.
The formula contains no fatty acids, ferments, oils, esters, or polysorbates that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No comedogenic oils or heavy waxes. Ricinoleth-40 (ethoxylated castor oil derivative) has a low comedogenic score. Formula is designed to help prevent clogged pores.
AHAs (lactic and glycolic acid) increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory while using these pads and for at least one week after. Limit direct sun exposure.
Contains active retinoid and a triple-acid complex. Those new to acids or retinoids should begin with once weekly use and gradually increase to 3x per week. Expect mild tingling or temporary redness initially.
Due to the retinoid content, use by children under 12 is not recommended. Consult a healthcare provider for teens between 12–18 years.
No added fragrances or dyes — significantly reduces risk of contact dermatitis and allergic reactions, making it more suitable for reactive skin types.
SkinBetter Science products are not tested on animals. The brand is committed to ethical, cruelty-free testing standards.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) BaseSolvent
The primary solvent and vehicle for all active ingredients. Purified water forms the foundation of the formula, ensuring even distribution of actives across the pad and delivery to the skin's surface.
- Function: Dissolves and carries all other ingredients
- Position: #1 in formula (highest concentration ingredient)
Lactic Acid ~5.9–8.8%Proven
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk that exfoliates the skin's surface by loosening dead skin cell bonds, while simultaneously functioning as a humectant to attract moisture. Also a key component of the patented AlphaRet® molecule when bonded to the retinoid.
- Exfoliation: Breaks down desmosomes (cell bonds), accelerating surface cell turnover
- Hydration: Attracts water to the stratum corneum; improves skin barrier function
- Anti-aging: Stimulates collagen synthesis with consistent long-term use
- Microbiome: Supports the skin's beneficial bacterial environment
Alcohol Denat. VehicleSolvent
Denatured alcohol acts as a solvent and antimicrobial preservative, helping to dissolve actives, enhance penetration of acids and retinoid into the skin, and maintain the formula's stability within the pad.
- Penetration enhancer: Improves delivery of actives through the stratum corneum
- Preservation: Inhibits microbial growth in the formula
Glycolic Acid ~2.4–3.7%Proven
The gold-standard AHA with the smallest molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate deepest into the skin for powerful exfoliation, collagen stimulation, and pigmentation correction. Works synergistically with lactic acid to provide multi-depth surface renewal.
- Exfoliation depth: Smallest AHA molecule; deepest epidermal penetration
- Collagen: Clinically shown to stimulate fibroblast activity and new collagen production
- Pigmentation: Reduces appearance of dark spots, post-acne marks, and uneven tone
- Pores: Helps reduce congestion and minimizes pore appearance over time
Sodium Hydroxide pH AdjusterFunctional
Used to adjust and stabilize the formula's pH to the optimal range for AHA activity (approximately pH 3.5–4.0). Proper pH is critical for acids to remain in their free-acid form and deliver effective exfoliation.
- Role: Neutralizes and buffers formula pH for optimal acid efficacy
Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate ~0.6–1.35%Patented
The star ingredient: SkinBetter Science's proprietary AlphaRet® molecule. This is a retinoid (vitamin A derivative) chemically bonded to lactic acid. The unique ester bond allows it to penetrate the skin and release retinoid activity while the lactic acid component reduces the irritation typically associated with retinoids. Promotes cell turnover, reduces fine lines, and supports skin renewal.
- Mechanism: Retinoid bonded to AHA; converts on skin to active retinoid form
- Anti-aging: Supports collagen production; reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Tolerance: Designed to be more tolerable than conventional retinol or tretinoin
- Pigmentation: Supports reduction in appearance of dark spots and uneven tone
Salicylic Acid ~0.2–0.8%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate inside pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and debris. Provides anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits making it especially effective for blemish-prone and oily skin types.
- Pore-clearing: Oil-soluble; penetrates into follicles to clear congestion
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms blemish-related inflammation
- Antibacterial: Inhibits acne-causing bacteria on the skin surface
- Keratolytic: Softens and loosens plugs of dead skin in pores
Ricinoleth-40 SolubilizerFunctional
A polyethoxylated castor oil derivative that acts as a solubilizer and emulsifier, helping to keep the water-soluble and oil-soluble components of the formula evenly dispersed throughout the solution for consistent delivery on every pad.
- Function: Solubilizes and stabilizes the multi-phase formula
- Comedogenicity: Low comedogenic potential (rating ~1)
8 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Lactic Acid, Alcohol Denat., Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate, Salicylic Acid, Ricinoleth-40
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse PM only, up to 3 times per week. Wait 2–3 minutes after application before layering other products. Do not rinse off. Always apply SPF the next morning. Do not use on the same evenings as other exfoliants or strong retinoids.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Begin with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat skin dry before applying the pad.
Open & Apply the Pad
Tear open one individually sealed pad. Using gentle circular motions, swipe the pad evenly over your face, neck, and décolleté. Avoid the delicate eye area, lips, and nostrils.
Do Not Rinse
Leave the formula on skin — do not rinse off. The acids and AlphaRet® need to remain on the skin to work. Mild tingling is normal and expected, especially when starting out.
Wait, Then Layer
Wait 2–3 minutes for the formula to absorb before applying the next step. Follow with AlphaRet Overnight Cream or your usual moisturizer if needed.
Frequency & Sun Protection
Use up to 3 times per week in the evening. On non-pad nights, continue with your regular routine. Every morning after using this product, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Limit direct sun exposure while using these pads.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have photodamaged, dull, or uneven skin texture
- You want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles with a retinoid + acid combo
- You're looking for a professional peel experience at home
- You travel frequently and want a TSA-friendly treatment pad
- You have oily, acne-prone, or blemish-prone skin needing pore refinement
- You want to fade post-acne marks and improve skin clarity
- You're sensitive to traditional retinol but still want retinoid benefits
- Your skin has uneven tone, rough patches, or large-looking pores
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive
- You are currently using prescription tretinoin or strong retinoids nightly
- You have extremely sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin without professional guidance
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use (mandatory with AHAs)
- You have active eczema, psoriasis, or broken skin barrier
- You are under 12 years old
- Budget is a primary concern — at $4.33/pad, it is a premium investment
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSalicylic acid penetrates pores to dissolve excess sebum. Glycolic and lactic acids refine texture. Ideal for oily, congested complexions prone to blackheads and breakouts.
Lactic acid's hydrating humectant properties benefit dry skin. Follow with a nourishing moisturizer immediately after use. Start with once weekly to build tolerance.
The triple-acid complex addresses oily T-zone congestion while lactic acid supports hydration in drier areas. A near-ideal formula for combination skin concerns.
Fragrance-free and dye-free formula reduces irritation risk, but the combination of retinoid + triple acids may be intense for very reactive skin. Start once per week and patch test first.
Salicylic acid unclogs pores; retinoid supports cell turnover to prevent new breakouts. Fungal acne safe. Clinically tested on diverse skin tones including blemish-prone subjects.
The retinoid + AHA combination is specifically designed for photodamaged and photoaged skin. Addresses fine lines, wrinkles, rough texture, and uneven tone simultaneously.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Glow & Smoothness
After the first use, many users notice skin feels immediately smoother and looks brighter. Mild tingling or tightness is normal and subsides within minutes. Dead skin cells are visibly reduced.
~85% noticedTexture Refinement Begins
With 2–3 uses per week, rough patches soften and pore appearance begins to reduce. Skin tone looks more even and dull areas become noticeably brighter. Purging may occur in acne-prone skin as the retinoid accelerates cell turnover.
~78% noticedClinical Milestone: 100% Results
SkinBetter Science's own clinical study (used 3x/week over 3 weeks combined with twice-daily moisturizer) showed 100% of subjects experienced noticeably healthier, brighter, smoother, and more radiant-looking skin. Unretouched clinical photography confirmed visible improvements.
100% in clinical studyFine Lines, Wrinkles & Dark Spots
With consistent use, the retinoid component begins showing deeper anti-aging benefits. Fine lines appear softened, dark spots fade, and post-acne scarring becomes less visible. Skin clarity and radiance are significantly enhanced.
~70% noticedLong-Term Skin Rejuvenation
Collagen-stimulating effects of glycolic acid and the retinoid compound progressively improve skin firmness, texture, and overall quality. Continued use supports long-term photoaging reversal and prevents new damage accumulation.
~65% noticedRatings by platform
700+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Patented AlphaRet® retinoid + AHA technology is clinically validated
- Clinically proven: 100% subjects saw results in 3 weeks
- Individually sealed pads preserve efficacy and prevent drying
- TSA-friendly and travel-ready — no liquid restrictions
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and cruelty-free
- More tolerable than traditional retinol for sensitive users
- Triple-acid complex addresses multiple skin concerns at once
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Real Simple 2019 Road Test Winner
- Skin noticeably smoother and glowing after just one use
Criticized
- Very expensive — $130 for 30 pads ($4.33/pad)
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Requires mandatory daily SPF — increases routine complexity
- Only 8 ingredients; some feel formula is simple for the price
- Ethyl lactyl retinoate is a milder retinoid than tretinoin
- Initial purging possible for acne-prone or retinoid-naïve skin
- Available only through authorized professional channels
- May be too strong for very sensitive or reactive skin types
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains both AHA and BHA acids in a similar format. Missing the patented retinoid component and triple-acid precision, but provides comparable surface exfoliation at a fraction of the price. Best for those focused on texture and tone without the anti-aging retinoid benefits.
Physician-formulated glycolic acid peel pads with a higher glycolic concentration (10%). No retinoid component, but delivers strong AHA exfoliation for texture, tone, and anti-aging. A good mid-range alternative for those primarily seeking acid exfoliation without the retinoid element.
A liquid exfoliating toner with glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids (similar trio). Applied via cotton pad rather than a pre-soaked pad. No retinoid. Significantly more affordable. Suitable for those new to chemical exfoliation or budget-conscious shoppers wanting the acid combination without the premium price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
NeoStrata Smooth Surface Glycolic Peel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (individual pads are sealed, so each pad remains fresh until opened). Check packaging for the PAO symbol.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid environments such as bathrooms when possible.
30 individually sealed foil pouches. Each pad is hermetically sealed to protect the AlphaRet® molecule from oxidation and prevent the pad from drying out between uses.
Yes — TSA-approved. Individual pads do not count as liquids and can be carried in carry-on luggage without restriction. Perfect for travel skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads are not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula contains Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate, a topical retinoid (vitamin A derivative), which is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development. The formula also contains Salicylic Acid, which is generally advised to avoid during pregnancy, especially in higher concentrations or leave-on formulations. SkinBetter Science itself states: "If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, planning to become pregnant, or a child (12 years and under), consult a doctor before use." Please speak with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any retinoid or acid-based product during this time.
Yes. AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads are considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, oils, ferments, polysorbates, or esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The 8-ingredient formula (Water, Lactic Acid, Alcohol Denat., Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate, Salicylic Acid, Ricinoleth-40) has been independently assessed as safe for fungal acne-prone skin. In fact, salicylic acid may provide additional benefit by helping to regulate sebum and reduce conditions favorable to yeast overgrowth.
Use with caution. These pads already contain a retinoid (AlphaRet®) and a triple-acid complex. Layering additional retinol, AHAs, or BHAs on the same evening significantly increases the risk of over-exfoliation, irritation, redness, and barrier damage. If you are using a prescription retinoid (like tretinoin), alternate nights with these pads rather than using them on the same evening. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can generally be used in the morning routine without issue, but avoid layering it directly with the peel pads. Always consult your dermatologist when combining multiple actives. Start slowly, and never use these pads on evenings you've already applied other exfoliants.
AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads are best suited for normal, oily, combination, and mature/aging skin types, particularly those with photodamaged skin. They excel at treating dull, uneven skin tone and texture, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, rough patches, and blemish-prone congestion. They are clinically tested on diverse skin tones and ethnicities. Sensitive skin types can use them but should start with once-weekly application and patch test first. They are not ideal for those with active rosacea, broken skin barrier, or extremely reactive skin without dermatologist guidance.
Many users notice smoother, glowing skin after just one use. With consistent use of 3 times per week, clinical studies conducted by SkinBetter Science showed 100% of subjects experienced noticeably healthier, brighter, smoother, and more radiant-looking skin within 3 weeks. Deeper benefits — including improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and post-acne scarring — become more apparent between months 1 and 3 as the retinoid and acids stimulate collagen production and accelerate cell turnover. Long-term use (3+ months) provides cumulative skin rejuvenation benefits.
Use AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads as Step 3 in your evening routine: (1) Cleanse with a gentle cleanser, (2) optional toner, (3) apply the AlphaRet pad in small circular motions to face, neck, and décolleté avoiding eyes and lips, (4) wait 2–3 minutes for absorption, (5) follow with serum if desired, and (6) finish with moisturizer. Do not rinse off. Use up to 3 times per week PM only. The following morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. If using the full SkinBetter Science regimen, the brand recommends applying pads after Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment or Hydration Boosting Cream.
No, AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads have a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The formula contains no heavy oils, waxes, or known pore-clogging ingredients. The only potentially concerning ingredient is Ricinoleth-40 (an ethoxylated castor oil derivative), which has a low comedogenic score. In fact, the formula actively works to reduce clogged pores — glycolic and lactic acids remove dead skin cells that can block follicles, while salicylic acid is oil-soluble and penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and debris. It is a non-comedogenic formula suitable for acne-prone skin.
Because each pad is individually hermetically sealed in its own foil pouch, the product remains fresh until the moment you open each individual pad — the "Period After Opening" (PAO) applies once you open a specific pad. The overall product (box of 30 pads) has a shelf life of 12 months from the manufacturing date when stored properly. Unopened individual pads remain stable when stored at room temperature, away from heat, direct sunlight, and humidity. At a usage rate of 3 pads per week, 30 pads last approximately 10 weeks (about 2.5 months).
Verdict: SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads are among the most scientifically sophisticated at-home chemical exfoliants available. The patented AlphaRet® retinoid–AHA hybrid combined with a triple-acid complex delivers professional-peel results with less irritation than traditional approaches — and the individually sealed pads ensure every single use is as potent as the first. Clinically proven results in 100% of subjects within 3 weeks. The formula is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, fungal acne safe, and ideal for oily, combination, acne-prone, and aging skin. The primary drawback is the premium price ($4.33/pad) and contraindication during pregnancy. For anyone not pregnant who is serious about tackling photodamage, dullness, fine lines, and uneven texture with medical-grade efficacy at home — these pads are genuinely exceptional and worth the investment.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 0 |
Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate
Skin Conditioning, Abrasive
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
|