Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser
Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
The Balea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser is a daily-use, lightly foaming gel cleanser formulated with 0.8% AHA (Lactic Acid) and 3% PHA (Gluconolactone) to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, refine pores, and leave skin visibly smoother and more radiant — all without stripping the skin barrier. Enriched with Aloe Vera, Panthenol, and Inulin prebiotic, it cleanses and cares in one effortless step.
3% PHA Exfoliation
Gluconolactone (PHA) gently loosens and removes dead skin cells with a larger molecular size than AHAs — making it significantly less irritating, ideal for daily use and sensitive skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3% PHA Exfoliation
Gluconolactone (PHA) gently loosens and removes dead skin cells with a larger molecular size than AHAs — making it significantly less irritating, ideal for daily use and sensitive skin.
0.8% AHA (Lactic Acid)
At this concentration, Lactic Acid primarily acts as a moisturizing humectant with mild surface-brightening properties. Gentler than glycolic acid, it also improves skin texture over time.
Aloe Vera + Panthenol Comfort Complex
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) soothe, calm, and deeply hydrate the skin during and after cleansing — preventing post-cleanse tightness or dryness.
Inulin Prebiotic Support
Inulin, a plant-derived prebiotic fiber, supports the skin's natural microbiome balance. It nourishes beneficial bacteria on the skin surface, helping to maintain a healthy barrier.
Ultra-Mild Surfactant Blend
The cleansing system uses Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Maltooligosyl Glucoside, and Cocamidopropyl Betaine — all gentle, plant-derived surfactants that produce a light foam without stripping moisture.
Clean Formula Standards
Free from fragrances, parabens, mineral oils, silicones, sulfates, microplastics, and dyes. Formulated to meet strict German drugstore quality standards at a highly accessible price point.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or high-concentration chemical exfoliants. The 0.8% Lactic Acid and 3% Gluconolactone are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always confirm with your healthcare provider.
Contains no fatty acids, ferments, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The surfactant blend is glucoside-based and fully safe for fungal acne-prone skin. Confirmed safe by multiple FA-focused ingredient databases.
No pore-clogging oils or waxes in the formula. All surfactants are low-comedogenic. Suitable for acne-prone skin and those prone to blackheads or congestion. Comedogenic rating: 1/5 (very low risk).
PHA exfoliants are well-established as gentler than AHAs or BHAs due to their larger molecular size, which limits skin penetration depth. Fragrance-free and dye-free formula further reduces irritation risk.
The low AHA concentration (0.8%) and gentle PHA percentage (3%) make this suitable for daily use — morning or evening — without the risk of over-exfoliation that higher-concentration acid products carry.
As a rinse-off product used at very low acid concentrations, there is minimal residual photosensitization. However, daily SPF use is always recommended when incorporating any exfoliating product into your routine.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60–70%Base
The primary solvent and base of the formula, making up the majority of the product. Water acts as a carrier for all active and functional ingredients, ensuring even distribution and optimal skin contact during application.
- Function: Universal solvent, hydration carrier, texture base
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-comedogenic, universally safe for all skin types
Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch ~5–10%Proven
A modified starch derived from plant sources (typically tapioca or corn). It functions as a thickening agent and texture enhancer in this formula, giving the cleanser its characteristic gel-like consistency. It also has mild skin-conditioning properties and is exceptionally well-tolerated.
- Function: Thickener, texture modifier, skin conditioner
- Origin: Plant-derived (modified starch), biodegradable
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin
Sodium Lactate ~2–4%Proven
The sodium salt of Lactic Acid, Sodium Lactate is a natural component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). It is a powerful humectant that draws water into the skin, improving hydration levels and helping to maintain the optimal skin pH for the formula's exfoliants to work effectively.
- Function: Humectant, NMF component, pH adjuster
- Research: Clinically proven to increase skin water content and improve barrier function
- Safety: Excellent tolerability, safe in pregnancy, FA-safe
Butylene Glycol ~2–4%Proven
A small, water-soluble diol that serves multiple roles: humectant (draws moisture to skin), solvent (helps dissolve and stabilize other ingredients), and texture modifier. It also has mild antimicrobial properties that contribute to formula preservation.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, antimicrobial booster
- Safety: Well-tolerated at low concentrations; very low sensitization potential; non-comedogenic
Gluconolactone (PHA) 3%Proven
The star active ingredient of this cleanser. Gluconolactone is a Poly Hydroxy Acid (PHA) — a next-generation chemical exfoliant with a larger molecular structure than AHAs, which means it penetrates the skin more slowly and causes significantly less irritation. It exfoliates dead skin cells, refines texture, has antioxidant properties, and simultaneously attracts moisture to the skin.
- Concentration: 3% — effective dose for gentle daily exfoliation
- Mechanism: Loosens corneocyte bonds at the skin surface, accelerating natural cell turnover
- Research: Studies show PHAs provide equivalent exfoliation to AHAs with significantly reduced stinging and irritation
- Bonus: Chelating and antioxidant properties offer additional skin protection
Decyl Glucoside / Lauryl Glucoside / Maltooligosyl Glucoside ~5–10%Proven
A trio of plant-derived (typically coconut/corn) glucoside surfactants that form the gentle cleansing backbone of this product. They effectively remove dirt, excess sebum, and light makeup while maintaining skin's natural moisture balance. Far gentler than conventional sulfate surfactants, they produce a light, non-stripping lather.
- Function: Mild cleansing, foaming, emulsification
- Origin: Derived from plant sugars (glucose) and fatty alcohols from coconut or corn
- Safety: Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, biodegradable, FA-safe
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate ~1–3%Proven
A mixture of polyols derived from the hydrogenation of starch. It functions as a humectant that binds water to the skin, providing immediate and lasting moisturization. It also contributes to the formula's smooth, silky texture without any greasy residue.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioner, texture enhancer
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice ~1–3%Proven
Freshly derived aloe vera gel, rich in polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins (C, E, B12), and enzymes. It acts as a powerful soothing, anti-inflammatory, and humectant ingredient, helping to calm any potential mild irritation from the exfoliating acids and provide immediate hydration.
- Function: Soothing, anti-inflammatory, humectant, wound-healing support
- Research: Clinical studies confirm aloe vera reduces transepidermal water loss and calms irritated skin
- Safety: Excellent tolerability; safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5–1%Proven
Panthenol (D-Panthenol / Pro-Vitamin B5) is one of the most well-researched and beloved skincare actives. It penetrates deep into the skin, converting to Pantothenic Acid, which supports skin barrier repair, reduces water loss, soothes irritation, and improves skin elasticity. It complements the exfoliating actives by aiding barrier recovery.
- Function: Humectant, barrier-repairing, anti-inflammatory, emollient
- Research: Proven to reduce TEWL, accelerate wound healing, and soothe dermatitis
- Safety: Universally safe; non-comedogenic; safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Lactic Acid (AHA) 0.8%Proven
An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) naturally found in sour milk and fermented foods. At 0.8%, the primary role in this formula is as a moisturizing humectant and pH adjuster rather than a potent exfoliant (meaningful exfoliation requires 5–10%+ at low pH). It contributes mild brightening and smoothing over time with consistent use.
- Concentration: 0.8% — primarily humectant/conditioning at this level
- Function: Humectant, mild brightening, pH optimization, skin conditioner
- Safety: Safe at this concentration for all skin types, including sensitive and pregnant skin
Cocamidopropyl Betaine ~1–3%Proven
A gentle amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine. It is widely used in gentle cleansers and baby products for its exceptional mildness. In this formula, it works synergistically with the glucoside surfactants to enhance foam quality and cleansing efficacy while maintaining a skin-friendly pH.
- Function: Secondary surfactant, foam booster, viscosity modifier
- Safety: Very mild; well-tolerated even on sensitive skin; non-comedogenic
Inulin (Prebiotic) ~0.5–1%Promising
A naturally occurring prebiotic fiber extracted from chicory root or Jerusalem artichoke. Inulin selectively nourishes beneficial bacteria on the skin's microbiome (like Lactobacillus), helping to maintain microbial balance. This supports the skin's natural defence against harmful bacteria and environmental stressors, contributing to long-term skin health.
- Function: Prebiotic, skin microbiome support, mild humectant
- Research: Emerging studies support prebiotic skincare for managing acne, atopic dermatitis, and barrier dysfunction
- Safety: Non-irritating, natural origin, FA-safe
17 ingredients
Aqua, Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch, Sodium Lactate, Butylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Maltooligosyl Glucoside, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Lactic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Inulin, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as yoursecond cleanse in a double-cleansing routine, or as astandalone morning or evening cleanser. Suitable for daily use morning and evening due to the mild PHA and low AHA concentration.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can disrupt the skin barrier and reduce the efficacy of the gentle exfoliating acids.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense a small pea-sized amount (approximately 1–2 pumps or a hazelnut-sized squeeze from the tube) onto damp fingertips. The product is concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
Massage Gently onto Skin
Work the cleanser into a light lather using gentle circular motions across your face and neck for 30–60 seconds. Avoid the eye area. No scrubbing — the chemical exfoliants do the work for you.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel.
Follow with Your Routine
Continue with toner, serum, and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. The Aloe and Panthenol in this cleanser leave skin prepped and receptive for next steps.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle daily exfoliating cleanser without harsh acids
- Your skin is sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated by traditional AHA/BHA products
- You struggle with dull, uneven, or rough skin texture
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) and need a completely FA-safe formula
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean-formula skincare
- You're looking for an affordable German pharmacy-quality product
- You want a 2-in-1 cleanser + mild chemical exfoliant to simplify your routine
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want a safe exfoliating option
Consider alternatives if:
- You need high-strength chemical exfoliation (e.g., stubborn hyperpigmentation, deep acne scarring)
- You are looking for a makeup-removing cleanser — this is best as a second cleanse
- You need active BHA (salicylic acid) for deep pore cleansing of severe acne
- You prefer a rich, creamy, or moisturizing cleanser texture for very dry skin
- You need a product available outside Germany / Europe easily
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight formula that removes excess sebum without stripping. The gentle PHA exfoliation helps keep pores clear and reduces shine over time.
Panthenol, Aloe Vera, and multiple humectants prevent post-cleanse tightness. Pair with a richer moisturizer afterward for best results in very dry conditions.
Balances across T-zone and drier cheek areas effectively. The non-stripping surfactants and soothing actives address both oily and dry zones without over-treating either.
PHA is the most gentle chemical exfoliant available — specifically recommended for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin. Fragrance-free and dye-free formula eliminates major irritant triggers.
Non-comedogenic rating of 1/5, fully fungal acne safe, and the prebiotic Inulin supports a healthy skin microbiome. PHA exfoliation reduces congestion and surface buildup that leads to breakouts.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3+Immediate Softness & Clarity
Skin feels noticeably clean, smooth, and soft immediately after rinsing. The gentle lather removes surface debris and dead skin cells without stripping sensation. No tightness or dryness — thanks to the Aloe and Panthenol complex.
~90% noticed cleaner-feeling skinSmoother Texture & Less Dullness
With consistent daily use, dead skin cell buildup decreases noticeably. Skin texture becomes visibly smoother, and dullness reduces as the PHA exfoliation supports a more even skin surface. Pores may appear slightly refined.
~75% noticed improved textureBrighter Complexion & Refined Pores
Regular exfoliation with Gluconolactone and mild Lactic Acid produces a cumulative brightening effect. Overall skin tone becomes more even. Pore appearance is reduced in oily and combination skin types. Minor breakouts may decrease.
~65% noticed brighter, more even skin toneLong-Term Skin Renewal Support
Sustained use supports the skin's natural cell turnover cycle, maintaining a fresh and healthy-looking complexion. The prebiotic Inulin contributes to a more balanced skin microbiome over time, potentially reducing chronic congestion and sensitivity flare-ups.
~55% noticed sustained improvement in skin clarityRatings by platform
410+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — premium ingredient quality at a drugstore price (~€4.25 for 125ml)
- Clean, minimal ingredient list with only 17 well-chosen ingredients
- Fully fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, and dye-free
- Fungal acne safe — rare for a cleansing product
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe exfoliating option
- Leaves skin feeling clean, soft, and hydrated — not stripped
- Suitable for daily use — morning and evening
- PHA + Aloe + Panthenol combination praised for sensitive skin compatibility
- Prebiotic Inulin is an innovative addition for microbiome support
- Consistently sold out — high demand reflects genuine popularity
Criticized
- 0.8% AHA is very low — not a substitute for dedicated AHA treatment products
- Frequently sold out in dm stores and online
- Not effective as a makeup-removing first cleanser — best as second cleanse
- Limited availability outside Germany / Central Europe
- Small 125ml tube may seem short-lived for those using morning and evening
- Rating on dm.de is polarizing (3.3/5) — "peeling" name sets unrealistic exfoliation expectations
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for hydration and barrier support. Lacks the PHA exfoliation of Balea but is widely available and equally gentle. Best for those prioritizing barrier repair over mild exfoliation.
A leave-on PHA toner rather than a cleanser. Contains Gluconolactone at ~5% for more targeted exfoliation. Better for those wanting a dedicated PHA treatment step rather than a combined cleanse-and-exfoliate product. More expensive but higher active concentration.
A comparable gentle gel cleanser with Allantoin and Panthenol as soothing actives. Similar gel texture and non-stripping feel. Lacks the AHA/PHA acids but is excellent as a pure, gentle everyday cleanser. Comparable clean-formula philosophy to Balea Beauty Expert.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging showing 12M. Use within 12 months of first opening for optimal efficacy and safety.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F). Do not freeze. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms if possible — a dry, cool shelf is ideal.
Squeeze tube with a flip-top cap (125 ml). The tube format provides good product hygiene and portion control. Minimizes contamination risk compared to open-jar packaging.
Yes — under 100ml limit for carry-on airline restrictions. The tube format is leak-resistant and TSA/EU airline compliant. Ideal for travel skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Balea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids (retinol, retinoic acid), no salicylic acid (BHA), no hydroquinone, and no high-concentration chemical exfoliants that are typically flagged for pregnant women. The 0.8% Lactic Acid (AHA) and 3% Gluconolactone (PHA) are both used at concentrations well within established safety ranges for pregnancy, especially as a rinse-off product. The formula is also free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, and mineral oils. As with any skincare product used during pregnancy, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider or midwife before adding new products to your routine.
Yes — the Balea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser is fully safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains no fatty acids, fermented ingredients, lipid esters, polysorbates, or oils that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The cleansing system relies entirely on glucoside-based surfactants (Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Maltooligosyl Glucoside) and Cocamidopropyl Betaine — all of which are verified FA-safe by leading fungal acne resources. This makes it one of the most suitable daily cleansers for those managing fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes, with some considerations. As a rinse-off cleanser, the active concentrations (0.8% AHA, 3% PHA) are washed away before your leave-on products are applied, so product interaction is minimal. You can safely use this cleanser alongside a leave-on retinol, vitamin C serum, AHA toner, or BHA treatment. However, if you are already using a high-strength AHA treatment (e.g., 10%+ glycolic acid) or prescription retinoids, combining with an additional exfoliating cleanser may increase the risk of over-exfoliation and irritation. In that case, consider alternating use or using this cleanser as your morning cleanser only while reserving stronger actives for evenings.
The Balea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser is suitable for virtually all skin types. It performs exceptionally well for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its oil-free, lightweight formula and gentle exfoliating PHA. Sensitive skin types benefit greatly from PHA being the mildest class of chemical exfoliant — with a larger molecular size that limits deep skin penetration and minimizes irritation. Dry skin types can use it effectively too, especially with the Aloe Vera, Panthenol, and humectant ingredients providing moisture support during and after cleansing — though very dry skin may want to follow with a richer moisturizer. It is one of the rare cleansers rated excellent across multiple skin type categories.
You will notice immediate results from the very first use — skin feels visibly cleaner, softer, and smoother after rinsing. Cumulative exfoliation benefits, such as visibly brighter skin tone, more even texture, and reduced dullness, typically become noticeable after 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. For more significant improvements in pore appearance, skin clarity, or congestion reduction, allow 3–4 weeks of regular use. Remember that the low concentrations (0.8% AHA, 3% PHA) are optimized for gentle daily use rather than dramatic fast results — the trade-off is excellent tolerability and suitability for daily use without risk of over-exfoliation.
The Balea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser is used as your facial cleanser — Step 1 or Step 2 of your routine. In a double-cleansing routine (recommended for makeup wearers), use an oil cleanser or micellar water first to remove makeup and sunscreen, then follow with this product as your second, deeper cleanse. If you do not wear makeup, it can be used as your sole cleanser. Apply to damp skin, massage gently for 30–60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly before proceeding to toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF (in the morning). It can be used both morning and evening due to its gentle formulation.
No — the Balea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low), meaning it is extremely unlikely to clog pores. The formula is completely oil-free and relies on glucoside-based surfactants and plant-derived thickeners rather than any waxes, heavy emollients, or oils with high comedogenic ratings. Additionally, the 3% PHA (Gluconolactone) actively exfoliates the skin surface, which helps to prevent dead skin cell buildup that leads to clogged pores and blackheads. This product is very well-suited for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin types.
The Balea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months — indicated by the open jar symbol marked "12M" on the tube packaging. With daily use (morning and evening), a 125ml tube typically lasts approximately 2–3 months, well within the 12-month PAO window. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The tube format helps minimize contamination. Discard the product if you notice any changes in color, texture, or scent before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: TheBalea Beauty Expert Peeling Cleanser is a genuinely impressive product that punches far above its €4.25 price point. By combining3% PHA Gluconolactone (the most gentle chemical exfoliant for daily use),0.8% Lactic Acid,Aloe Vera,Panthenol, and innovativeprebiotic Inulin into a clean, 17-ingredient formula — free from fragrance, parabens, oils, silicones, and sulfates — Balea has created something that rivals products priced 3–5× higher. It is rare to find a cleanser that is simultaneouslypregnancy-safe, fungal-acne-safe, non-comedogenic, sensitive-skin-appropriate, and suitable for daily exfoliation. The main limitation is availability outside Germany and the reality that the low AHA concentration won't replace a dedicated exfoliant treatment for those with specific skin concerns. For an everyday cleanser that genuinely supports skin health rather than just cleaning it, this is a standout recommendation.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch
Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lactate
Humectant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|