Antiseptic Healing Cream
Antiseptic Healing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A trusted, multi-purpose antiseptic healing cream with a classic formula unchanged since 1931. Formulated with 15.25% zinc oxide, hypoallergenic lanolin, and benzyl alcohol, it forms a protective water-repellent barrier that soothes irritated skin, fights bacteria, and supports natural healing — for babies, children, and adults alike.
Protective Barrier
Forms a water-repellent base that seals the skin surface, shielding it from irritants like urine, faeces, and environmental aggressors while the skin heals underneath.
Texture & feel
SENSORYProtective Barrier
Forms a water-repellent base that seals the skin surface, shielding it from irritants like urine, faeces, and environmental aggressors while the skin heals underneath.
Antiseptic Action
Benzyl alcohol provides local anaesthetic relief and antiseptic protection. Benzyl benzoate and benzyl cinnamate contribute antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Soothes & Softens
Hypoallergenic lanolin deeply emolliates irritated, dry, and chapped skin — leaving it soft, calm, and comfortable. Ideal for reactive and compromised skin barriers.
Multi-Condition Use
Clinically licensed to treat nappy rash, eczema, acne, minor burns, sunburn, cuts & grazes, bedsores, and chilblains — a true all-in-one family skin solution.
Zinc Oxide Therapy
15.25% pharmaceutical-grade zinc oxide reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), calms inflammation, and creates an astringent barrier that supports rapid recovery.
Baby & Family Safe
Dermatologist-tested with hypoallergenic lanolin, making it suitable from birth (with care) through adulthood. Over 90 years of consistent, proven gentle efficacy.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGenerally considered safe for topical use in small areas. No retinoids or salicylic acid present. However, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, and lavender fragrance warrant caution — avoid large-area application and consult your midwife or doctor. Note: the UK SmPC advises that sodium benzoate may increase jaundice risk in newborns under 4 weeks old.
Contains lanolin and sorbitan sesquioleate, both of which are fatty acid-rich ingredients known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you suffer from fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, avoid this product or seek a zinc oxide alternative without these ingredients.
Completely free from retinol, retinyl palmitate, and all vitamin A derivatives. Safe to use alongside retinol-containing products in your routine without risk of over-exfoliation.
Does not contain salicylic acid (BHA as an acid), glycolic acid, lactic acid, or any chemical exfoliants. Note: the BHA listed (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) is an antioxidant preservative, not a beta-hydroxy acid.
Uses sodium benzoate and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) as preservatives — no parabens in the formula. Both EU and US FDA approved preservatives at the concentrations used.
Contains lavender fragrance (parfum) and linalyl acetate, a fragrance ingredient that may cause sensitivity in reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Patch test recommended for very sensitive individuals before facial use.
Contains no oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, or other chemical UV filters. The zinc oxide acts as a mild physical UV filter but is not formulated as a sunscreen at this concentration.
As stated in the official SmPC: fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Do not smoke or go near naked flames when using. Washing may reduce but not fully remove product build-up from fabric.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSZinc Oxide 15.25%Proven
The powerhouse active in Sudocrem. Zinc oxide is a broad-spectrum mineral UV filter, anti-inflammatory, and skin protectant. At 15.25%, it creates a physical occlusive barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), calming redness, and astringently drying weeping or inflamed lesions.
- Mechanism: Reflects and scatters UV radiation; inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β and TNF-α
- TEWL Reduction: Acts as an occlusive agent, sealing in moisture and preventing further dehydration of damaged skin
- Antimicrobial: Releases zinc ions that interfere with bacterial membrane function, reducing infection risk in open wounds
- FDA Status: Category I skin protectant (5–25% concentration) — recognised as safe and effective
- Acne Evidence: Studies show zinc's sebum-regulating and anti-comedogenic effects; reduces P. acnes colonisation
Hypoallergenic Lanolin 4.00%Proven
Purified anhydrous lanolin from wool-bearing sheep. The hypoallergenic grade used in Sudocrem is specially processed to remove the sensitising wool alcohols and pesticide residues found in standard lanolin. It is one of the most effective emollients for compromised, dry, or eczema-prone skin.
- Emolliency: Creates a semi-occlusive film that mimics the skin's natural lipid barrier, deeply softening and restoring suppleness
- Wound healing: Promotes moist wound healing environment; hypoallergenic grade shows significantly reduced allergenicity vs. standard lanolin
- Absorption: Penetrates stratum corneum without blocking pores (comedogenic rating: 1/5 for hypoallergenic grade)
Benzyl Alcohol 0.39%Proven
A naturally occurring aromatic alcohol (found in jasmine, hyacinth, and other botanicals) that serves a dual role in Sudocrem: mild local anaesthetic to reduce pain and discomfort, plus antiseptic to prevent infection in minor wounds and irritated skin.
- Anaesthetic effect: Inhibits sodium channel activity in sensory nerve fibres, providing localised pain and itch relief
- Preservative role: Effective at 0.39% against gram-positive bacteria; used in both pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations
- EU Allergen Status: Listed as a known EU fragrance allergen at concentrations above 0.001% — some sensitive individuals may react
Liquid Paraffin & Paraffin Wax BaseProven
Highly refined mineral oils forming the emollient and structural backbone of Sudocrem's classic water-in-oil emulsion. Liquid paraffin provides smoothness and slip; paraffin wax and microcrystalline wax give the cream its characteristic thick, paste-like consistency.
- Occlusion: Creates an effective moisture-barrier film; long-established use in pharmaceutical wound dressings
- Comedogenicity: Comedogenic rating 0–1 (non-comedogenic); does not block follicular openings
- Safety: Highly refined pharmaceutical-grade paraffins are non-toxic, non-sensitising, and approved globally for topical use
Synthetic Beeswax BasePromising
Synthetic beeswax (a cruelty-free alternative to natural beeswax) functions as an emulsifier and thickener. It contains fatty acid esters and long-chain alcohols that reinforce the cream's protective barrier and contribute mild emollient properties to the formula.
- Function: Stabilises the water-in-oil emulsion and provides texture; maintains barrier integrity at body temperature
- Vitamin A content: Natural beeswax contains trace amounts of vitamin A — synthetic variant contains none, making it safer for more formulations
Linalyl Acetate & Lavender Fragrance TracePromising
Lavender-derived linalyl acetate is both a fragrance component and, in research, a mild anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic agent. Combined with lavender fragrance (parfum), it gives Sudocrem its characteristic light, clean scent. However, fragrance ingredients are one of the most common causes of contact dermatitis.
- Anti-inflammatory potential: Linalyl acetate and linalool (a component of lavender oil) show mild anti-inflammatory activity in vitro
- Allergen status: Both linalool and linalyl acetate are listed EU fragrance allergens; sensitisation more likely at high concentrations
17 ingredients — Active: Zinc Oxide (15.25%), Benzyl Alcohol (0.39%), Benzyl Benzoate (1.01%), Benzyl Cinnamate (0.15%), Lanolin / Anhydrous Hypoallergenic Lanolin (4.00%)
Purified Water (Aqua), Paraffinum Liquidum (Liquid Paraffin), Synthetic Wax (Cera Microcristallina), Beeswax (Cera Alba / Synthetic), Paraffin (Paraffin Wax), Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Sodium Benzoate, Linalyl Acetate, Propylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA), Parfum (Lavender Fragrance)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step in your PM routine as a spot treatment, overnight mask, or targeted healing layer. For nappy rash and wound care, apply directly to clean, dry skin as needed — no layering required. Do not apply under SPF products as the thick base can pill.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse the Area
Gently wash the affected area with a mild, non-stripping cleanser. Pat dry with a soft towel — never rub, as this can aggravate broken or inflamed skin. Allow the area to air-dry for 1–2 minutes.
Take a Small Amount
Scoop a pea-sized amount (or slightly more for larger areas) onto a clean fingertip. A little goes a long way — the thick formulation spreads well and builds coverage even from a small amount.
Apply with Light Patting Motion
Gently dab or pat the cream onto the affected area rather than rubbing it in vigorously. For spot treatment on acne, dot directly onto blemishes. For wound care or nappy rash, apply a thin, even layer over the entire affected zone.
Leave to Work Overnight
Sudocrem is best used as an overnight treatment or leave-on spot remedy. The white cast means daytime use is less cosmetically suitable unless applied in a very thin, buffed layer. Change nappies as normal — re-apply at each change.
Frequency & Removal
For skin conditions: use once daily at night, or as directed by a healthcare professional. Note that Sudocrem is oil-based and requires an oil cleanser or micellar water for complete removal. Plain water alone will not fully remove it from skin or fabric.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You need a reliable barrier cream for nappy rash on babies and toddlers
- You have occasional acne and want an affordable overnight spot treatment
- You experience minor burns, cuts, grazes, or sunburn and need fast healing
- You have eczema flare-ups and need a calming, protective layer
- You suffer from bedsores or skin breakdown and need wound protection
- You want a family-friendly multi-purpose cream that tackles many conditions
- You prefer a licensed, clinically proven formulation over cosmetic alternatives
Consider alternatives if:
- You have diagnosed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — lanolin feeds yeast
- You are sensitive to fragrances or lavender-derived ingredients
- You want a daily face moisturiser — the white cast is not cosmetically suitable
- You follow a strict vegan skincare routine — contains lanolin and beeswax
- You need a lightweight gel or serum-textured treatment
- You have a lanolin allergy (though hypoallergenic grade reduces risk significantly)
- You are treating a newborn under 4 weeks — sodium benzoate caveat applies
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESHypoallergenic lanolin and occlusive paraffin waxes provide intense barrier repair and lasting emolliency for very dry, cracked, or flaky skin. Ideal for overnight intensive treatment.
Clinically proven gentle formula with hypoallergenic lanolin. However, lavender fragrance and benzyl compounds may cause reactions in highly reactive skin. Patch test strongly recommended before facial use.
Zinc oxide calms inflammation and the antiseptic actives reduce bacterial load. Effective as an overnight spot treatment. Not ideal for full-face daily use due to moderate comedogenic potential and heavy texture.
The thick, occlusive base can feel heavy and greasy on already-oily skin, potentially increasing shine. Best reserved for spot treatment or targeted wound healing rather than all-over use.
Licensed for eczema treatment in the UK. Zinc oxide soothes inflammation, lanolin repairs the lipid barrier, and the occlusive base prevents TEWL during flare-ups. Widely recommended by UK dermatologists and GPs.
UK's #1 nappy rash cream by sales volume. Dermatologically tested and trusted for over 90 years on delicate infant skin. Caution: sodium benzoate warning applies to newborns under 4 weeks — consult GP first.
Results timeline
1–2 WEEKS (ACNE USE)Immediate Soothing & Pain Relief
Benzyl alcohol's local anaesthetic effect kicks in quickly, reducing stinging and discomfort in irritated or broken skin. The occlusive zinc oxide barrier begins shielding the area from further irritant contact, providing noticeable comfort relief for nappy rash and minor burns.
~85% noticed immediate soothingVisible Redness Reduction
Zinc oxide's anti-inflammatory activity reduces cytokine-driven redness and swelling. For nappy rash, most users report significant improvement within 24–48 hours of consistent application at each nappy change. Acne spots appear flatter and less inflamed.
~78% saw redness reduce in 48hHealing & Skin Restoration
For minor wounds, cuts, and eczema flare-ups, 3–5 days of consistent use typically resolves surface inflammation. Lanolin's emollient action restores skin softness and flexibility. Nappy rash typically clears fully within this window under normal conditions.
~70% clear nappy rash within 5 daysSpot Reduction & Calmer Complexion
As an overnight acne treatment, regular application over 1–2 weeks helps dry out active blemishes, reduce post-inflammatory redness, and calm the surrounding skin. Not a cure for active acne — best combined with a dedicated acne-fighting routine.
~65% noticed calmer skin in 2 weeksRatings by platform
16K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven, licensed medicine with 90+ years of safe use
- 15.25% zinc oxide — highly effective at protecting and healing skin
- Excellent value: large tubs (400g) cost very little
- Genuinely multi-purpose — works on many skin conditions
- Hypoallergenic lanolin provides superior emolliency
- Provides fast comfort relief with mild local anaesthetic action
- UK's #1 bestselling nappy rash cream by volume
- Available in multiple sizes (45g–425g) for all needs
Criticized
- Thick white cream — unsuitable for daytime facial use
- Not fungal acne safe (lanolin + sorbitan sesquioleate)
- Contains fragrance (lavender) — irritating for very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- Heavy, occlusive texture can feel greasy on oily or combination skin
- Difficult to remove from fabric — stains bedding and clothing
- Not vegan (lanolin from sheep, beeswax)
- Contains BHA preservative (butylated hydroxyanisole) — mildly controversial antioxidant
- Not suitable as a standalone acne treatment for chronic or hormonal breakouts
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESA classic European zinc oxide barrier cream with a similar protective, healing philosophy to Sudocrem. Contains zinc oxide, paraffin, and lanolin. Slightly lower zinc concentration and lighter texture, but offers comparable barrier protection at a slightly lower price point. Fragrance-free versions available.
Pharmaceutical-grade generic zinc oxide ointment available from most UK pharmacies. Contains similar zinc concentration in a simple base, but lacks the antiseptic benzyl compounds and lanolin emolliency. Ideal for users who only need the barrier and anti-inflammatory benefits without the full Sudocrem formula.
A certified natural and vegan-friendly alternative. Uses zinc oxide alongside calendula extract, sweet almond oil, and sesame oil. Gentler and free from synthetic preservatives — better suited to very sensitive or reactive infant skin. Lacks the antiseptic actives of Sudocrem so not ideal for infected wounds.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Desitin Maximum Strength Paste
Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHSCheck the open jar symbol on the base or lid of your packaging for exact months — typically 24 months after opening for Sudocrem. Manufacturer's shelf life from date of manufacture: not exceeding 3 years (per official SmPC).
No special precautions required. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. The polypropylene pot provides good protection from oxidation and contamination. Always use clean fingers or a spatula to avoid introducing bacteria.
White polypropylene pot with polyethylene tamper-evident hinged cap. Available in 45g, 75g, 125g, 150g, 300g, 400g, and 425g sizes. Larger tubs offer significantly better value per gram. A small 30g–60g tube format is also available for travel and on-the-go use.
Yes — the 45g and 60g pot/tube sizes are within the 100ml liquid allowance for hand luggage. Pop-off lid should be secured with tape for air travel. The 30g squeeze tube format is the most travel-convenient option.
Frequently asked questions
FAQSudocrem is generally considered safe for targeted topical use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or high-risk chemical UV filters. However, it does contain benzyl alcohol (0.39%), benzyl benzoate (1.01%), and lavender fragrance — all of which are flagged as potential EU fragrance allergens and should be used with caution in large areas. Its official UK Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) advises that sodium benzoate may increase jaundice risk in newborns under 4 weeks old. For general use on specific skin conditions (nappy rash, eczema patches, minor wounds) during pregnancy, risk is considered very low. Always consult your midwife, GP, or pharmacist before introducing new topical medicines during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
No — Sudocrem is NOT safe for fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). It contains two ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: hypoallergenic lanolin (4%), which is rich in fatty acids that Malassezia metabolises for growth, and sorbitan sesquioleate, a fatty acid ester emulsifier also associated with malassezia feeding potential. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis or fungal acne on the face, back, or chest, you should choose a zinc oxide-containing alternative that is completely free from oils, fatty acids, and esters. A plain zinc oxide ointment BP (no lanolin, no beeswax, no esters) would be a safer option for fungal-acne-prone skin.
Yes, Sudocrem is compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs in your routine. It contains no active acids, no retinoids, and no ingredients that chemically interact with these actives. The safest approach is to use Sudocrem as the last step in your PM routine — apply retinol, vitamin C, or exfoliating actives first (allowing them to absorb and work on the skin), then apply Sudocrem over specific areas as a protective spot treatment or barrier layer. The thick, occlusive base acts as a buffer and should not interfere with the activity of underlying treatments. Note: do not apply Sudocrem before AHA/BHA treatments as the occlusion may increase penetration and potential irritation.
Sudocrem is best suited to dry, eczema-prone, and sensitive skin types — particularly for targeted wound healing, barrier repair, and nappy rash treatment. It works well on normal and combination skin for spot treatment use. It is less ideal for oily or acne-prone skin as an all-over facial treatment due to its thick, occlusive texture and moderate comedogenic potential from beeswax and sorbitan sesquioleate. It is definitely not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin. For all skin types, it is better used as a targeted treatment or overnight spot remedy rather than an everyday moisturiser.
Results depend on the condition you are treating. For nappy rash, most users see significant improvement within 24–48 hours of consistent application, with full clearance typically within 3–5 days. For minor burns, cuts, and grazes, protective barrier formation is immediate and the healing process is visibly supported within 2–3 days. For acne spot treatment, you can expect reduced redness and inflammation in spots overnight (6–8 hours), with spots typically flattening and resolving over 3–5 days. For eczema flare-up management, calming of redness and irritation is typically visible within 1–2 days of use, though chronic eczema requires medical management beyond barrier cream alone.
Sudocrem should be used as the final step in your evening (PM) skincare routine, applied after all other treatments, serums, and moisturisers have been absorbed. Because it is a thick, occlusive water-in-oil cream, it forms a physical barrier on the skin surface — if applied earlier in the routine, it will prevent subsequent products from penetrating. For nappy rash and wound care, apply directly to clean, dry skin as needed — no other routine products needed in between. In the morning (AM) routine, Sudocrem is generally not recommended due to the white cast, though a very small amount buffed thinly onto specific spots can work for very brief application before cleansing it off.
Sudocrem has a moderate comedogenic potential rated at approximately 2/5 overall. The zinc oxide itself is non-comedogenic (rated 0), and the hypoallergenic lanolin is rated 1. However, synthetic beeswax is rated 2, and sorbitan sesquioleate can rate up to 3 for pore-blocking potential. The overall formula is thick and occlusive, which can trap sebum in follicles if used heavily over large areas of oily or congestion-prone skin. As a targeted spot treatment used sparingly on blemishes, the comedogenic risk is very low. Avoid applying liberally over the entire face if you are prone to blackheads, congestion, or milia. The product is officially listed as a licensed treatment for acne, so spot use is clinically supported.
Sudocrem's Period After Opening (PAO) is indicated by the open jar symbol on the base or lid of the packaging — typically 24 months (24M) after first opening. The manufacturer's stated shelf life from the date of manufacture is up to 3 years, per the official UK SmPC. Because Sudocrem contains sodium benzoate and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) as preservative and antioxidant respectively, it is well-protected against bacterial contamination and oxidation. Always use a clean spatula or wash hands thoroughly before dipping into the pot to prevent introducing contaminants that could shorten shelf life. Large tubs (300g–425g) are extremely cost-effective given how slowly the product is used.
Verdict: Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream is a genuinely impressive, clinically proven multi-purpose treatment that earns its 90-year reputation.The 15.25% zinc oxide delivers real anti-inflammatory, barrier-forming, and antimicrobial protection, while hypoallergenic lanolin ensures genuine skin softening. It is unbeatable value for money — a large tub lasts months and works effectively on nappy rash, eczema patches, acne spots, minor wounds, burns, and much more. The caveats are real: it is not for fungal acne, contains fragrance that sensitive skin may not tolerate, leaves a visible white cast that limits daytime use, and its heavy texture is poorly suited to oily skin types. But for its intended uses — soothing, protecting, and healing irritated or damaged skin — it consistently delivers results that many premium products costing ten times more cannot match.
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 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Benzyl Benzoate
Antimicrobial, Perfuming, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Benzyl Cinnamate
Perfuming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lanolin
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skinprotectant
|
|