BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2%
BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2%
Product Description
Product overview
A budget-friendly, leave-on liquid exfoliant powered by 2% encapsulated salicylic acid (BHA) and bioactive Australian fruit acids. Clinically proven in 8 weeks to visibly unclog pores, smooth texture, and deliver a radiant, clearer-looking complexion — all in an alcohol-free, oil-free, fragrance-free formula that works for virtually every skin type.
Encapsulated Salicylic Acid Technology
Micro-encapsulated BHA delivers salicylic acid into the pore lining for targeted exfoliation with optimal stability and reduced irritation risk compared to free-form SA.
Texture & feel
SENSORYEncapsulated Salicylic Acid Technology
Micro-encapsulated BHA delivers salicylic acid into the pore lining for targeted exfoliation with optimal stability and reduced irritation risk compared to free-form SA.
Bioactive Australian Fruit Acids
Extracts from Desert Lime (Citrus glauca), Finger Lime (Microcitrus australasica), and Round Lime (Microcitrus australis) deliver natural AHAs that brighten and refine tone.
Hydration-First Exfoliation
Glycerin and diglycerin attract and bind water to the skin simultaneously, ensuring exfoliation does not compromise the skin's moisture barrier.
Antioxidant Protection
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) and Hydroxyacetophenone act as antioxidants and formula stabilizers, protecting against oxidative stress while extending product efficacy.
Clinically Proven Results
In an 8-week clinical study: 100% of subjects showed improved exfoliation, 97% showed reduced pore appearance, and 97% saw immediate hydration improvement.
Accessible Price Point
At under $19 for 120ml, this delivers a Paula's Choice-style BHA experience at roughly half the cost — making consistent acid exfoliation accessible to all budgets.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. Salicylic acid at 2% is generally advised against during pregnancy, particularly in leave-on formulas. Most dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA exfoliants during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
This formula contains no ferments, polysorbates, or problematic fatty acid esters that could feed Malassezia. Salicylic acid itself has antifungal properties, making this a strong choice for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. Oil-free and alcohol-free formula will not clog pores. Salicylic acid actively works to clear pore congestion.
Appropriate for most sensitive skin types, but slight tingling or redness upon first application may occur due to the active exfoliation. Always patch test before full-face use and start every other night.
Naturium products are 100% vegan and certified cruelty-free. No animal-derived ingredients and no animal testing at any stage of production.
BHA exfoliants increase photosensitivity. Daily SPF application is mandatory when using this product. Best used as part of a PM routine for optimal safety.
Contains zero ethanol or drying alcohols — a major advantage over many liquid exfoliants that use SD alcohol to enhance penetration but compromise the skin barrier.
Avoid applying around the eye contour. Salicylic acid can cause significant irritation to the delicate tissue surrounding the eyes. Keep away from eyelids and lash line.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (Encapsulated) 2%Proven
The star active — a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into the pore lining and dissolve the sebum and dead cell buildup that causes blackheads, whiteheads, and enlarged pores. The microencapsulated form provides enhanced stability, a more gradual, controlled release, and reduced irritation potential compared to free-form salicylic acid.
- Mechanism: Loosens the bonds (desmosomes) between dead skin cells, triggering desquamation and pore clearance
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, reducing redness and swelling associated with acne lesions
- Antibacterial: Demonstrated activity against P. acnes bacteria at concentrations of 0.5–2%
- Antifungal: Exhibits activity against Malassezia furfur, making it beneficial for fungal acne
- Optimal pH: Works most effectively at pH 3.0–4.0 — this formula's pH 3.5–4.0 is within the ideal range
Citrus Glauca (Desert Lime) Fruit Extract ~0.5–1%Promising
An Australian native fruit extract containing natural AHAs (primarily citric acid) and high levels of Vitamin C. Citrus glauca has up to three times more Vitamin C than conventional limes, providing antioxidant protection alongside gentle surface exfoliation that promotes a brighter, more even skin tone.
- AHA content: Natural citric acid provides gentle chemical exfoliation at the skin surface
- Antioxidant: High Vitamin C content helps neutralize free radicals and supports collagen synthesis
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin synthesis, reducing the appearance of dark spots over time
Microcitrus Australasica (Finger Lime) Fruit Extract ~0.3–0.5%Promising
Finger lime is prized in Australian native cuisine and cosmetics for its unique phytochemical profile, including flavonoids and natural AHAs. It contributes to the formula's brightening and skin-tone-evening bioactive fruit complex.
- Exfoliation: Natural alpha-hydroxy acids promote gentle cell turnover at the skin surface
- Antioxidant: Flavonoid compounds help protect skin from environmental damage
- Nourishing: Contains phytonutrients that support overall skin health and luminosity
Glycerin ~1.4–2.1%Proven
A skin-identical humectant that draws water from the deeper dermis and the environment into the outer skin layers. It ensures the exfoliating formula remains hydrating and barrier-supportive, preventing the dryness and tightness typically associated with acid products.
- Hydration: One of the most well-studied humectants in dermatology, clinically proven to improve skin hydration
- Barrier repair: Helps maintain healthy lipid structure in the stratum corneum
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — absolutely non-pore-clogging
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) traceProven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin cells and formula stability from oxidative degradation. Vitamin E also has soothing and emollient properties, helping to calm any irritation triggered by the active exfoliation.
- Antioxidant: Quenches singlet oxygen and lipid peroxides, protecting skin from environmental stress
- Soothing: Reduces inflammation and supports barrier repair post-exfoliation
- Stability: Helps prevent oxidation of other formula components, extending shelf life
Hydroxyacetophenone traceProven
A multifunctional ingredient derived from natural sources (present in many plants) that acts as a preservative booster, antioxidant, and soothing agent. It enhances the effectiveness of the primary preservative system while helping to calm potential irritation from exfoliation.
- Preservative booster: Significantly enhances the activity of phenoxyethanol, allowing lower preservative concentrations
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits inflammatory mediators, making it a beneficial addition to an exfoliant formula
- Well-tolerated: Considered safe and non-irritating at cosmetic use levels
18 ingredients · Alcohol-free · Oil-free · Fragrance-free
Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Polyacrylate, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Diglycerin, Citrus Glauca Fruit Extract, Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract, Microcitrus Australis Fruit Extract, Hydroxyacetophenone, Carrageenan, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Phytate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenylpropanol, Tocopherol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest used in a PM routine after cleansing. Apply to dry skin using palms or a cotton pad — do not rinse off. Wait 10–15 minutes before layering serums and moisturizer. Always apply SPF the following morning. Do not combine with other exfoliating actives (AHAs, retinol) in the same routine without building tolerance first.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake the Bottle Well
The encapsulated salicylic acid can settle. Give the bottle 3–5 vigorous shakes before each use to ensure even distribution of the active throughout the formula.
Cleanse & Pat Dry
Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser and pat skin completely dry. Applying to damp skin can dilute the formula and reduce efficacy.
Apply with Palms or Cotton Pad
Pour a small amount onto your palm or a cotton pad and apply an even layer over the face, avoiding the eye area. Do not rinse off — this is a leave-on exfoliant.
Wait 10–15 Minutes
Allow the formula to absorb and the acid to work on the skin before applying any additional skincare. This "waiting step" is important for maximum efficacy.
Layer Serums & Moisturizer
Follow with a hydrating serum and a moisturizer to lock in hydration and support barrier recovery post-exfoliation.
Wear SPF the Next Morning
BHA exfoliants increase skin's sensitivity to UV damage. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning without exception when using this product.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want a budget-friendly Paula's Choice BHA alternative
- You have uneven texture or dull skin tone
- You're new to acid exfoliation and want a gentle introduction
- You have fungal acne and need a FA-safe exfoliant
- You want an alcohol-free, fragrance-free exfoliant
- You're looking for a larger 120ml bottle for better value
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have an aspirin/salicylate allergy
- You are currently using prescription retinoids
- You want AHA-focused exfoliation (glycolic or lactic acid)
- You have extremely reactive or compromised skin barrier
- You prefer a silkier, more premium-textured BHA experience
- You need an exfoliant safe for use around the eye area
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is where the BHA Liquid Exfoliant truly shines. Oil-soluble salicylic acid penetrates into sebum-filled pores, dissolving congestion from within. The matte, non-greasy finish is ideal for oily complexions prone to blackheads and enlarged pores.
A strong match. 2% BHA exfoliates inside pores, prevents blockages, and reduces the bacterial load associated with acne. Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating) and fungal acne safe, making it suitable for various types of breakout-prone skin.
The lightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly across all face zones without overloading drier areas. The dual humectants (glycerin + diglycerin) provide hydration to drier patches while the BHA targets oilier T-zones.
Works well for dry skin types dealing with texture and dullness, but should be introduced slowly (2–3x per week maximum). Follow immediately with a rich moisturizer. Avoid if your skin barrier is already compromised or flaky.
The fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulation and encapsulated delivery system make this gentler than many BHA exfoliants. Patch test recommended; begin every other night and increase only if well-tolerated. Mild tingling is normal initially.
Regular BHA exfoliation accelerates cell turnover and smooths fine surface lines. Best when paired with a peptide or niacinamide serum for comprehensive anti-aging coverage. AHA exfoliants (glycolic acid) may provide slightly deeper wrinkle benefits.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKS (MAINTENANCE)Immediate Hydration & Initial Exfoliation
Skin may feel slightly tingly or tight upon first application — this is normal. Glycerin and diglycerin provide an immediate boost in surface hydration. Some users notice skin feels smoother after just 1–2 applications as surface dead cells are gently lifted.
97% noticed improved hydration immediately (clinical study)Smoother Texture & Reduced Blackheads
Consistent use begins to clear backed-up congestion from pores. Blackheads and whiteheads diminish noticeably. Skin texture becomes more refined, and tone appears more even. Minor breakouts may occur as impurities purge from pores — this is temporary.
~70% of users report visible pore improvementVisible Pore Reduction & Radiant Glow
Pores appear visibly smaller and less congested. Skin tone is more even, with reduced post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation. Overall radiance and skin clarity are noticeably improved. The combination of BHA + bioactive fruit acids creates a cumulative brightening effect.
97% showed reduced pore appearance at 8 weeks (clinical study)Maintained Clarity & Long-Term Skin Health
With regular use (3–7 nights per week depending on tolerance), skin maintains its clarity, smoothness, and pore size. Continued use helps prevent new blackheads from forming and keeps skin renewal cycle optimized.
100% showed improvement in exfoliation at 8 weeks (clinical study)Ratings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value — $18.99 for 120ml vs. $34 for 118ml from Paula's Choice
- Encapsulated BHA for gentler, more stable delivery
- Completely fragrance-free and alcohol-free
- Clinically proven results in 8-week study
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Works for most skin types including sensitive skin
- Absorbs quickly without residue or stickiness
- Visible pore reduction and blackhead clearance
- Large 120ml bottle provides excellent longevity
- Vegan, cruelty-free, dermatologist tested
Criticized
- Slightly powdery, dry finish — less elegant than Paula's Choice
- Not pregnancy-safe due to 2% salicylic acid
- Requires shaking before each use
- Pour bottle can make dosing messy — no pump
- Limited on deep cystic acne (hormonal breakouts)
- Mild initial tingling may concern first-time BHA users
- Requires consistent SPF use — adds an extra AM step
- Not the most luxurious sensory experience at this pH
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains the same 2% salicylic acid concentration but in a much smaller 30ml bottle with a silicone-heavy anhydrous base. The texture is quite different — heavier and more serum-like. Lacks the hydrating humectants (glycerin/diglycerin) and bioactive fruit complex found in Naturium. Better for targeted spot use.
A popular K-beauty alternative with a combined AHA, BHA, and PHA approach. Larger 150ml bottle and very gentle formula. However, it contains tea tree oil and Centella, plus ferment filtrates that make it NOT fungal acne safe — a key differentiator from Naturium's cleaner formula.
Features a gentle concentration of glycolic acid (AHA) and betaine salicylate (BHA-like), in a 150ml bottle. Much more hydrating texture with witch hazel water as a base. Lower active concentration means gentler exfoliation — good for BHA beginners, but less potent at treating blackheads than 2% salicylic acid.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product is NOT recommended during pregnancy. Salicylic acid at 2% — particularly in a leave-on formula — is generally advised against during pregnancy due to potential systemic absorption. While topical salicylic acid in low concentrations (such as face washes that are rinsed off) is considered lower risk, leave-on 2% BHA products are typically listed as "use with caution" or "avoid" by most dermatologists and OB-GYNs. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your healthcare provider before using this or any acid exfoliant. Safe alternatives include AHAs like mandelic acid (in small amounts) or gentle enzyme-based exfoliants — but always defer to your doctor's advice during pregnancy.
Yes — Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2% is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no ferments, polysorbates, or medium-chain fatty acid esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, salicylic acid itself has demonstrated antifungal activity against Malassezia, making this product potentially beneficial for those with fungal acne. The clean, minimal ingredient list (18 ingredients) with no oils or problematic esters makes this a strong choice for those managing fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis. As always, individual skin reactions can vary — patch testing before full application is recommended.
Combining this BHA with other active ingredients requires care. With retinol: avoid using both on the same night, as the combination significantly increases irritation, dryness, and barrier damage. Instead, alternate — BHA one night, retinol the next. With Vitamin C: these can be used in the same routine (Vitamin C in the AM with SPF, BHA in the PM), but do not layer them together as pH differences reduce efficacy of both. With other AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid): avoid using in the same routine as this is double-exfoliation and will likely cause over-exfoliation, redness, and barrier disruption. If you want to use both AHAs and BHAs, alternate on different nights and listen to your skin carefully. Always start slowly when introducing any new active and build up frequency over several weeks.
Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2% is most beneficial for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — particularly those dealing with blackheads, clogged pores, enlarged pores, and congested skin. Because salicylic acid is oil-soluble, it excels at penetrating into sebum-filled pores to dissolve blockages from within, making it superior to water-soluble AHAs for pore-related concerns. Dry skin types can use it, but should limit application to 2–3 times per week and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should start very slowly (once per week) and patch test thoroughly. Those with normal skin will also see benefits in terms of improved skin radiance and smoothness with regular use.
Results vary based on skin type, frequency of use, and the concern being addressed. Here is a general timeline based on the brand's clinical study and user reports: Within the first week, most users notice skin feels smoother and more hydrated immediately after application. By weeks 2–4, blackheads and visible congestion begin to diminish, skin texture improves, and pores appear more refined. At the 8-week mark — which is the endpoint of Naturium's clinical study — 100% of subjects showed improvement in exfoliation, 97% showed reduced pore appearance, and 97% noted improved hydration. For concerns like hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks, expect 10–12 weeks of consistent use before significant improvement. Consistency is the most important factor — irregular use will significantly delay and reduce visible results.
This product is applied as step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and any hydrating toner, but before serums and moisturizer. The correct order is: Cleanser → Hydrating Toner (optional) → BHA Liquid Exfoliant (leave on, do not rinse) → wait 10–15 minutes → Serum / Essence → Moisturizer → SPF (AM only). It is best used in your PM routine to avoid immediate sun exposure. If you use it in the AM, applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is absolutely mandatory — BHA exfoliants increase photosensitivity and using them without sun protection significantly increases the risk of UV-induced damage and hyperpigmentation.
No — Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2% is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is completely oil-free and alcohol-free. Every ingredient in the INCI list is either rated 0 or 1 on the comedogenic scale. More importantly, salicylic acid actively works to prevent pore clogging by dissolving the oil and dead skin cell mixture that causes comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) to form. This product is one of the safest choices available for those worried about congestion. Unlike some skincare products that claim to be non-comedogenic but contain borderline ingredients, this formula's simple, clean ingredient list offers genuine reassurance for pore-concerned skin types.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 12 months — meaning it should be used within one year of first opening. The 120ml / 4 fl oz bottle is quite generous. At a typical use frequency of 4–5 nights per week, using approximately 3–4ml per application, the bottle should last approximately 8–10 months, well within the PAO window. To maximize shelf life and product stability: store away from direct sunlight and heat, keep the cap tightly closed, shake before each use to redistribute the encapsulated actives, and avoid introducing water into the bottle. If you notice any significant change in color, texture, or scent before the 12 months is up, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2% delivers a genuinely impressive performance at an even more impressive price point. For under $19, you get a clinically tested, 2% encapsulated salicylic acid formula that is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, fungal acne safe, and backed by real 8-week clinical data showing 100% exfoliation improvement across skin types. It's not quite as silky or luxurious in texture as the Paula's Choice benchmark — the dry, matte finish is more functional than indulgent — but for those primarily concerned with results over sensory experience, the gap in performance is negligible while the gap in price is substantial. A standout budget pick for anyone dealing with blackheads, enlarged pores, uneven texture, or acne-prone skin. Not suitable for pregnancy or extremely sensitive skin without professional guidance.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Polyacrylate
Absorbent, Emollient, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning
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Hydrating
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