Benzoyl Peroxide Spots Treatment Gel 5%
Benzoyl Peroxide Spots Treatment Gel 5%
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-tested, water-based spot treatment gel formulated with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide — the gold-standard antibacterial active that kills up to 94% of acne-causing P. acnes bacteria in just one week. Powered by proprietary Acrylates Copolymer (AC) bead technology, it absorbs excess oils while releasing glycerin to keep skin hydrated. Fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic — ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types.
Kills 94% of P. acnes Bacteria
Clinical studies show Benzac BPO 5% eliminates up to 94% of acne-causing Cutibacterium (P. acnes) bacteria within one week of regular use, targeting the root bacterial cause of inflammatory acne.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills 94% of P. acnes Bacteria
Clinical studies show Benzac BPO 5% eliminates up to 94% of acne-causing Cutibacterium (P. acnes) bacteria within one week of regular use, targeting the root bacterial cause of inflammatory acne.
Acrylates Copolymer (AC) Technology
Proprietary microsphere beads absorb up to 4x their own weight in excess sebum while simultaneously releasing hydrating glycerin — treating acne without stripping skin of necessary moisture.
Unblocks Pores & Exfoliates
Dual keratolytic and antibacterial action clears blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged follicles by removing dead skin cell buildup and reducing excess free fatty acids in sebaceous glands.
Glycerin-Infused Hydration
Unlike harsh BPO gels that leave skin flaky and raw, Benzac's water-based formula with added glycerin helps maintain skin suppleness and comfort, even during the initial adjustment phase.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical BPO is generally considered low-risk with minimal systemic absorption. ACOG lists benzoyl peroxide as an acceptable OTC acne treatment during pregnancy. However, always consult your doctor or OB-GYN before use, especially in the first trimester. Avoid applying near breast tissue while breastfeeding.
Confirmed fungal acne safe. Contains no fatty acids, ferments, esters, or polysorbate emulsifiers that feed Malassezia. Benzoyl peroxide is itself antifungal and can help reduce Malassezia overgrowth on the skin surface.
Water-based gel formula with zero comedogenic oils. Glycerin (rating 0), carbomer (rating 0), and propylene glycol (rating 0) are all non-pore-clogging. Safe for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin types.
Do not layer simultaneously with retinoids, AHAs, or BHAs as the combination significantly increases irritation, dryness, and barrier disruption. Use BPO at night and vitamin C/retinol at alternate times or on alternate days.
Benzoyl peroxide increases sun sensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, especially if using BPO in the morning. Avoid direct prolonged sun exposure and UV tanning devices while using this product.
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach and discolor hair, pillowcases, towels, and clothing. Use white or old pillowcases when leaving the gel on overnight. Rinse off thoroughly before contact with fabrics.
Begin with once-daily application for 2 hours, then rinse off. Gradually increase to overnight use over 1–2 weeks as skin builds tolerance. Starting too aggressively may cause redness, peeling, and irritation.
Formula does not contain chemical UV filters or reef-harmful ingredients. No animal-derived ingredients (glycerin is plant-derived). Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and artificial fragrances.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5% (50mg/g)Proven
The gold-standard topical active for acne vulgaris. An oxidizing agent with potent antibacterial and keratolytic properties that works by releasing free-radical oxygen to destroy the protein structure of C. acnes bacteria, while simultaneously loosening dead skin cells and excess sebum from follicles.
- Mechanism: Releases active oxygen species that oxidize bacterial proteins, eliminating P. acnes without inducing antibiotic resistance
- Clinical Efficacy: Studies show 5% BPO is equally effective as 10% BPO for reducing inflammatory lesions, with significantly fewer irritation side effects (Mills et al., 1986)
- Dual Action: Reduces lipids and free fatty acids in sebum (anti-inflammatory) AND kills bacteria (antibacterial) — dual mechanism targets multiple acne causes simultaneously
- Resistance-Free: Unlike antibiotics, P. acnes has never developed resistance to benzoyl peroxide in over 50 years of clinical use
- ATC Code: D10AE01 — classified as an anti-acne preparation for topical use
Acrylates Copolymer functionalProven
Benzac's proprietary AC bead technology — microscopic polymer spheres that absorb up to 4x their own weight in excess skin oils while simultaneously releasing glycerin to rehydrate treated skin. This dual oil-control and hydration mechanism is what differentiates Benzac from standard BPO gels.
- Function: Acts as a sebum-absorbing and moisture-releasing vehicle, delivering active BPO more evenly across the skin surface
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — does not clog pores
- Skin Feel: Creates the lightweight, non-greasy gel texture; reduces typical stickiness associated with water-based acne treatments
Glycerin (Glycerol) humectantProven
A plant-derived humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. Included specifically to offset the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide, helping maintain skin hydration and barrier comfort during acne treatment.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — universally tolerated, suitable for all skin types
- Antimicrobial Bonus: Research shows glycerin exhibits mild antimicrobial and antiviral properties, providing secondary support to BPO's antibacterial action
- Source: Plant-derived (typically soybean or palm); vegan-friendly
Sodium Anisate preservativePromising
A natural preservative derived from anise (fennel) seed. Provides antimicrobial activity to maintain product stability and safety without relying on parabens or harsh chemical preservatives. Increasingly used in clean-label formulations.
- Function: Preservative with secondary antimicrobial properties that complement BPO's antibacterial action
- Origin: Naturally derived from fennel/anise; considered a clean-beauty-friendly alternative to parabens
Carbomer & Poloxamer 182 texture agentsProven
Carbomer is a high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid that provides the gel's smooth, spreadable consistency. Poloxamer 182 is a block copolymer surfactant that aids dispersion and enhances the skin-feel of the formula. Both are considered inert, well-tolerated excipients with negligible skin penetration.
- Carbomer Comedogenic Rating: 0 — minimal skin penetration, considered inert
- Poloxamer 182: Fungal acne safe — not a fatty acid or ester that feeds Malassezia
11 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide, Sodium Anisate, Disodium EDTA, Poloxamer 182, Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerin, Silicon Dioxide, Sodium Hydroxide, Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning to dry skin. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Always use SPF 30+ in the morning. Use BPO in the PM routine to reduce photosensitivity risk.
How to use
HOW TO USEWeek 1 — Short Contact Therapy
Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and pat skin completely dry. Apply a thin layer of Benzac BPO 5% Gel to affected areas only. Leave on for 2 hours, then rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry. Finish with a light non-comedogenic moisturizer. Do this once daily.
After 3 Days (If Tolerated Well)
If no significant redness or discomfort occurred, transition to an evening application. Cleanse, apply a thin layer to affected areas in the evening, let dry, then apply moisturizer. Leave on overnight and rinse off in the morning.
After 7 Days — Increase Frequency If Needed
If no peeling or redness and acne hasn't improved after 7 days of overnight use, you may increase to twice daily — morning and night. Always follow with moisturizer and apply SPF 30+ every morning without exception.
Spot Treatment Option
For active individual pimples or pustules, apply a small amount directly on the spot using a clean cotton swab before bedtime. This targeted approach minimises dryness to surrounding skin while directly treating the blemish.
Protect Your Fabrics
Benzoyl peroxide can bleach pillowcases, towels, and clothing. Use old or white pillowcases when leaving overnight. Wash hands thoroughly after application and avoid touching dark fabrics before the product dries.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You've tried salicylic acid without sufficient results
- Your skin is oily or combination and acne-prone
- You need a fungal-acne-safe spot treatment option
- You prefer a fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested formula
- You want a non-comedogenic treatment that won't clog pores
- You're dealing with blackheads and whiteheads on the nose/chin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or sensitive skin prone to redness
- You have active eczema, rosacea, or broken/sunburned skin
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You have a known allergy to benzoyl peroxide or cinnamic acid derivatives
- You cannot use SPF daily (photosensitivity risk)
- You want a retinoid-based treatment for anti-aging alongside acne care
- You have deep cystic/nodular acne requiring prescription therapy
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The AC bead technology actively absorbs excess sebum while BPO targets the bacteria that thrive in an oily environment. Matte finish won't add shine.
Works well on oily T-zones without over-drying cheeks. Use as a targeted spot treatment on active areas rather than all-over application for best results.
This product is specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne-safe, and clinically proven to kill acne-causing bacteria. Treats existing spots and helps prevent new ones.
Effective for occasional breakouts. Use as needed as a spot treatment rather than full-face application. Follow with a hydrating moisturizer to offset any drying effect.
Use with caution. BPO can be drying, and dry skin is more prone to peeling and irritation. If using, start with short-contact therapy and pair with a rich non-comedogenic moisturizer. Consider BPO 2.5% instead.
Proceed carefully. Always patch test first and start with once-daily 2-hour contact. Sensitive skin types may prefer Benzac BPO 2.5%. If irritation persists beyond 2 weeks, discontinue use.
Results timeline
MONTHS 1–3Initial Adjustment Period
Some users experience mild tingling, redness, or dryness at the application site during the first 3 days as skin adjusts to BPO. Active blemishes may appear to "dry out" faster. Stick to short-contact use and don't skip moisturizer.
~85% notice faster blemish dryingVisible Reduction in Active Spots
Clinical data shows Benzac 5% BPO reduces P. acnes bacteria by up to 94% within 1 week. Many users report individual pimples visibly flatten and reduce in redness. Overnight spot treatment results are often seen the next morning.
~70% see reduced inflammationSignificant Clearance of Active Acne
Continued reduction in new breakouts as bacterial load decreases. Existing spots heal faster, blackheads begin to loosen. Skin tolerance typically established by this phase — most users can apply once or twice daily overnight with minimal discomfort.
~65% report noticeably clearer skinSustained Clearer Skin
With consistent use, most users achieve a substantially clearer complexion. Pore congestion reduces, surface texture improves. Some mild post-acne marks may fade due to BPO's mild exfoliating properties. Daily SPF critical during this phase.
~80% see clear or nearly clear skinRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Kills up to 94% of acne-causing bacteria in just 1 week
- AC bead technology moisturizes while treating — less drying than basic BPO gels
- Fungal acne safe — no fatty acids, ferments, or polysorbates
- Only 11 clean ingredients — fragrance, paraben, and silicone-free
- Non-comedogenic (rating 0/5) — won't clog pores
- Affordable pharmacy price point with accessible availability
- Fast visible results on active spots — many users see overnight improvement
- Dermatologist tested and recommended for moderate acne
Criticized
- Can bleach pillowcases, towels, and dark clothing
- Initial adjustment phase (1–2 weeks) involves dryness and possible peeling
- 5% concentration may be too strong for very sensitive or dry skin
- Increases photosensitivity — daily SPF is non-negotiable
- Not effective for deep hormonal or cystic acne without combination therapy
- Results are not permanent — acne returns if use is discontinued
- Cannot be combined with retinoids or vitamin C in the same routine step
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Almost identical active ingredient (BPO 5%) in a water-based gel. Slightly simpler formula without the Acrylates Copolymer bead technology, so less oil-absorption benefit and potentially more drying. Widely available at pharmacies in UK/EU. Excellent value for a straightforward BPO treatment.
Higher 10% BPO concentration in a rinse-off cleanser format rather than leave-on gel. More accessible in the US market. Better for full-face acne coverage since it's a wash. More drying than Benzac due to higher BPO percentage and wash-off format. Fungal acne safe.
Lower 2.5% BPO concentration in a cream base — better choice for sensitive or dry skin types who find 5% too strong. Clinical studies confirm 2.5% BPO is equally effective at reducing inflammatory lesions as 5% with fewer side effects. Less oil-absorbing than Benzac's AC formula. Widely available.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEBenzac BPO Spots Treatment Gel 5%
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if the product changes colour, consistency, or develops an unusual odour before the PAO date.
Store at room temperature between 15°C–25°C (59°F–77°F). Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not freeze. Keep tightly closed when not in use.
Squeeze tube (50g). Opaque white tube with screw cap to protect BPO from light degradation. Hygienic dispensing with no pump-contamination risk.
Yes — 50g tube is under the 100ml TSA/airport liquid limit. Ensure cap is tightly closed and store in a sealed bag to prevent bleaching of luggage fabrics.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide has minimal systemic absorption when applied topically, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) lists it as an acceptable OTC acne treatment during pregnancy. NCBI StatPearls notes that topical BPO is generally considered safe throughout all stages of pregnancy. However, benzoyl peroxide is categorised as FDA Pregnancy Category C (data limited), meaning you should always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. For breastfeeding, avoid applying near breast tissue to prevent any risk of infant contact. Use the lowest effective concentration (consider BPO 2.5%) and apply only to affected areas.
Yes — Benzac BPO 5% Spots Treatment Gel is confirmed fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, fermented ingredients, esters, or polysorbate emulsifiers that are known to feed Malassezia furfur, the yeast responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). In fact, benzoyl peroxide itself has antifungal properties and is sometimes used off-label for Malassezia-related conditions. This makes it one of the few spot treatments that can be used safely by those prone to both bacterial acne and fungal acne simultaneously.
Use with caution — do not layer BPO with these actives in the same application. Combining benzoyl peroxide simultaneously with retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic/lactic acid), or BHAs (salicylic acid) significantly increases the risk of barrier disruption, excessive dryness, redness, and irritation. To use them together: apply BPO in your evening routine on alternate nights from retinol; or apply vitamin C in the morning and BPO at night. Never mix in the same step of your routine.
Benzac BPO 5% Spots Treatment Gel is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The AC bead technology helps absorb excess sebum, making it particularly effective for those with shiny, breakout-prone skin. Normal skin types can use it as an occasional spot treatment. Dry and sensitive skin types should approach with caution — start with short-contact therapy (2 hours) and consider the gentler BPO 2.5% formulation instead to reduce the risk of over-drying and barrier disruption.
Most users see active spots begin to flatten and reduce in redness within 24–48 hours of overnight spot treatment. After 1 week of consistent use, clinical data shows Benzac 5% kills up to 94% of acne-causing bacteria. Significant overall clearance of active breakouts is typically noticeable within 2–4 weeks. Full results for substantially clearer, less congested skin usually occur at the 6–12 week mark with daily consistent use. Be patient through the first 1–2 week adjustment phase which may include temporary dryness or minor purging.
Benzac BPO 5% is applied as a treatment step after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizer. The full routine order is: (1) Cleanser → (2) Toner → (3) Benzac BPO 5% Gel → (4) Moisturizer → (5) Sunscreen (AM only). Apply to clean, dry skin. It's recommended to use BPO primarily in the evening/PM routine to minimise photosensitivity risk, and always apply SPF 30+ every morning regardless of whether you used BPO the night before.
No — Benzac BPO 5% Spots Treatment Gel is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is water-based and contains no oils or occlusive ingredients with a tendency to clog pores. Key ingredients: benzoyl peroxide (non-comedogenic), glycerin (rating 0), acrylates copolymer (rating 0), carbomer (rating 0), and propylene glycol (rating 0). It is actually designed to help unclog pores by reducing bacterial load and loosening dead skin cells that contribute to comedone formation.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Benzac BPO 5% Spots Treatment Gel is 12 months. After opening, store at room temperature (15–25°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the tube cap tightly closed between uses. Discard the product if it changes colour (benzoyl peroxide can darken), becomes unusually thick or watery, or develops a different odour, as these may indicate degradation of the active ingredient. For best potency, use within the 12-month window.
Verdict: Benzac Benzoyl Peroxide Spots Treatment Gel 5% earns its reputation as one of the most effective over-the-counter acne spot treatments available. With clinical proof of killing up to 94% of acne-causing bacteria in just one week, combined with the proprietary Acrylates Copolymer technology that manages oil without stripping moisture, it stands distinctly above basic BPO gels. The ultra-minimal 11-ingredient formula — fragrance-free, paraben-free, fungal acne safe, and non-comedogenic — makes it a rare spot treatment that ticks every major safety checklist. The trade-offs (fabric bleaching, photosensitivity, initial dryness) are manageable with the right precautions. For anyone dealing with mild to moderate inflammatory acne, this Australian pharmacy staple offers dermatologist-grade efficacy at an accessible price point.
Browse related
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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Anisate
Antimicrobial, Flavoring Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Poloxamer 182
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|