Biacna Topical Gel
Biacna Topical Gel
Product Description
Product overview
Biacna Topical Gel by Valeant is a prescription-only, dual-action acne gel combining Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% and Tretinoin 0.025% in a lightweight, alcohol-free aqueous base. Designed for adults and adolescents 12+ with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris, it simultaneously targets acne-causing bacteria and accelerates skin cell turnover to clear blackheads, whiteheads, papules, and pustules — while also offering anti-aging benefits through its retinoid component.
Antibacterial Action
Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% kills Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the primary bacteria responsible for inflammatory acne lesions.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% kills Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the primary bacteria responsible for inflammatory acne lesions.
Cell Turnover Acceleration
Tretinoin 0.025% normalizes follicular keratinization, preventing pore clogging and driving skin renewal for smoother, clearer texture.
Comedone Clearance
The retinoid component breaks down existing blackheads and whiteheads while preventing new comedones from forming beneath the surface.
Anti-Aging Bonus
Tretinoin is the gold-standard retinoid for reducing fine lines, sun damage, and uneven skin tone — making Biacna a dual-purpose treatment.
Alcohol-Free Formula
The aqueous-based gel avoids harsh alcohols, making it gentler on the skin barrier than many other prescription retinoid formulations.
Synergistic Combination
Clinical studies show clindamycin/tretinoin combination is statistically superior to either monotherapy alone for reducing both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETretinoin (a retinoid) is contraindicated in pregnancy as it may cause birth defects. Do not use Biacna if pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Consult your doctor immediately.
Clindamycin may pass into breast milk; tretinoin use during breastfeeding is not recommended. Avoid use and consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Polysorbate 80 and Glycerin, which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you suspect fungal acne, Biacna is not appropriate — consult a dermatologist for a fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Tretinoin makes skin significantly more sensitive to UV. Daily SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen is mandatory during treatment. Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Most users experience skin purging (increased breakouts, dryness, peeling) in weeks 1–6. This is normal as tretinoin pushes congestion to the surface. Persist through this phase for best results.
The formula is non-comedogenic overall. The aqueous base and absence of heavy oils keeps the comedogenic rating very low — suitable for acne-prone skin.
Using benzoyl peroxide simultaneously can inactivate clindamycin and cause excessive irritation. Avoid combining on the same application session.
Long-term use of clindamycin without benzoyl peroxide may encourage antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Discuss treatment duration with your prescribing doctor.
Biacna Topical Gel is a prescription medication available in Canada. A valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional is required to purchase.
Clinically studied and approved for adolescents (12 years and older) as well as adults for the treatment of mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClindamycin Phosphate 1.2%Proven
A topical antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis in Cutibacterium acnes, the primary pathogen responsible for inflammatory acne. As the phosphate ester, it converts to active clindamycin on the skin for targeted antibacterial action.
- Mechanism: Binds to the 50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes, blocking protein synthesis and killing acne-causing bacteria
- Efficacy: Clinically proven to reduce inflammatory lesion counts; superior in combination with tretinoin vs. monotherapy
- Anti-inflammatory: Beyond antibacterial action, clindamycin also demonstrates direct anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce retinoid-induced irritation
- Concentration: 1.2% (12mg/g) — standard prescription strength for topical acne treatment
Tretinoin 0.025%Proven
The gold-standard topical retinoid and the only FDA-approved retinoid for acne (since 1971) and photoaging. As retinoic acid itself, tretinoin is the most bioavailable retinoid — it requires no enzymatic conversion and works immediately on skin cell receptors.
- Mechanism: Binds to nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RARs), normalizing follicular hyperkeratinization and accelerating epidermal cell turnover
- Anti-acne: Prevents comedone formation, unclogs pores, and reduces sebum retention within follicles
- Anti-aging: Stimulates collagen synthesis, reduces fine lines, evens skin tone, and reverses UV-induced damage
- Concentration: 0.025% — the starting/entry-level strength, balancing efficacy with tolerability
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) TraceProven
A synthetic antioxidant and preservative that protects the formula — particularly the tretinoin — from oxidative degradation caused by light and air exposure, extending shelf life and maintaining potency.
- Function: Antioxidant preservative that scavenges free radicals and prevents rancidity/oxidation of active ingredients
- Safety: Used as a food and cosmetics additive since the 1970s; safety studies focus on oral exposure — topical use at trace concentrations is considered safe
- Importance: Critical for maintaining tretinoin stability in aqueous formulations
Carbomer 981 ExcipientProven
A high-molecular-weight cross-linked polyacrylic acid polymer used as the primary gelling and thickening agent. Carbomer 981 creates the characteristic gel texture and helps suspend and distribute the active ingredients evenly across the skin.
- Function: Gelling agent, viscosity modifier, and texture enhancer
- Skin feel: Provides smooth, non-greasy application with good spreadability
- Safety: Widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic gels; non-irritating at standard concentrations
Tromethamine pH AdjusterProven
An alkalizing agent used to adjust and stabilize the pH of the formula. Tromethamine neutralizes the carbomer to activate its gelling properties and maintains optimal pH for ingredient stability and skin compatibility.
- Function: pH buffer and neutralizing agent; activates carbomer gelling
- Importance: Optimal pH ensures tretinoin and clindamycin remain stable and bioavailable
- Safety: Well-established pharmaceutical excipient with strong safety profile
Glycerin HumectantProven
A humectant that draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the epidermis, helping to counteract some of the drying effects of tretinoin and maintain skin barrier hydration during treatment.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent
- Hydration: Helps maintain moisture levels in the stratum corneum, softening dryness associated with retinoid use
- Note: Can feed Malassezia yeast — caution for those prone to fungal acne
Disodium EDTA (Edetate Disodium) Chelating AgentProven
A chelating agent that binds and inactivates metal ions (particularly calcium and magnesium) in the formula, preventing them from destabilizing the preservative system and active ingredients. Also enhances microbial preservation.
- Function: Chelating agent, preservative enhancer, formula stabilizer
- Benefit: Improves effectiveness of the paraben preservative system against a broader range of microorganisms
- Safety: Long-standing pharmaceutical excipient with well-documented safety record
Methylparaben & Propylparaben PreservativesProven
A dual-paraben preservative system that prevents microbial contamination of the aqueous gel formula. Methylparaben handles bacteria and yeast; propylparaben extends coverage against molds. Together they ensure product safety throughout the shelf life.
- Function: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservatives protecting the aqueous formula
- Safety: Among the most extensively studied preservatives; safe at the concentrations used in pharmaceutical formulations per regulatory agencies
- Sensitivity: Rarely, some individuals with very sensitive skin may react — patch test recommended if paraben-sensitive
Polysorbate 80 EmulsifierPromising
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier that helps solubilize and uniformly disperse the active ingredients throughout the aqueous gel base, ensuring consistent drug delivery to the skin surface with each application.
- Function: Solubilizer, emulsifier, and wetting agent for active ingredient dispersion
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated; can occasionally cause contact sensitization in rare individuals
- FA Note: Polysorbate 80 is a fatty acid ester that may feed Malassezia — not safe for fungal acne-prone skin
Citric Acid pH AdjusterProven
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used primarily as a pH buffering agent in this formulation. At the low concentrations used here, its role is formula stabilization rather than chemical exfoliation.
- Function: pH adjuster, buffer, and antioxidant synergist
- Contribution: Helps maintain the acidic environment that stabilizes tretinoin and supports the preservative system
- Note: Concentration is too low for significant exfoliating activity — its primary role here is buffering
12 ingredients — Active: Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2%, Tretinoin 0.025%
Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2%, Tretinoin 0.025%, Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), Carbomer 981, Citric Acid, Edetate Disodium (Disodium EDTA), Glycerin, Methylparaben, Polysorbate 80, Propylparaben, Purified Water, Tromethamine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Biacna at night only — tretinoin degrades in sunlight and increases UV sensitivity. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning. Wait 20–30 minutes after applying before moisturizing to allow full absorption.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser (avoid actives like AHAs, BHAs, or scrubs). Pat completely dry with a soft towel — applying to damp skin increases irritation risk.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Use only a pea-sized amount of gel on your fingertip. Dot onto chin, cheeks, forehead, and nose — less is more with prescription retinoids. Do not apply to eyes, nostrils, corners of mouth, or open wounds.
Spread Evenly and Gently
Gently massage the dots into a thin, even layer covering the entire treatment area. Avoid rubbing vigorously. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after application.
Wait, Then Moisturize
Allow 20–30 minutes for the gel to fully absorb before applying a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Using a rich moisturizer like CeraVe or Cetaphil helps significantly reduce dryness and peeling during the adjustment period.
Start Slowly
If you are new to retinoids, begin with every other night for the first 2–4 weeks, then progress to nightly use as tolerance builds. Your doctor may advise an alternate-day schedule initially.
Always Apply SPF in the Morning
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning without exception. Tretinoin dramatically increases sun sensitivity and UV exposure can reverse treatment progress and cause hyperpigmentation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules)
- You have a valid prescription from a dermatologist
- You want a single product that tackles both bacteria and pore congestion
- You're looking for acne treatment with an anti-aging bonus
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin types
- You are 12 years of age or older
- You are patient enough to commit to a 3–6 month treatment course
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin unable to tolerate retinoids
- You have severe nodulocystic or cystic acne (may need oral treatments)
- You are under 12 years of age
- You cannot consistently use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
- You cannot tolerate the initial purging/irritation phase
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal candidate. The lightweight aqueous gel absorbs without adding shine; tretinoin regulates sebum production over time for long-term oil control.
Works well across T-zone and drier cheek areas; the gel texture is balanced enough for combination skin without exacerbating dryness in normal zones.
Generally tolerates well; some initial dryness is expected but manageable with a good moisturizer routine. Results are typically strong with consistent use.
Can work with careful introduction (every-other-night start) and a rich barrier-supportive moisturizer. Expect more pronounced dryness and peeling during adjustment.
Proceed with caution. The combination of clindamycin and tretinoin can cause significant irritation for reactive skin. Start slowly; discuss with your dermatologist.
The primary indication. Dual-action formula is clinically proven for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris; targets both bacterial and comedonal components simultaneously.
Results timeline
MONTH 5–6+Initial Adjustment — The Purge Begins
Most users experience increased breakouts, skin dryness, flaking, and mild redness as tretinoin accelerates cell turnover and pushes existing congestion to the surface. This is the purging phase and is a sign the medication is working.
80% experience some initial reactionPurging Peak — Skin at Its Worst
For many users, weeks 3–4 are the hardest. Breakouts may appear worse than before starting treatment. Peeling and dryness peak during this window. Consistency is critical — most dermatologists advise continuing through this phase.
60% consider stopping — don't give up!Turning Point — Clearing Begins
By weeks 5–8, the majority of users begin to notice meaningful improvement. New pimple formation slows, existing lesions heal faster, and skin texture starts to smooth. Dryness typically becomes more manageable as skin adapts.
65% notice significant improvementSubstantial Clearance
The 3-month mark is where most users see major results. Inflammatory lesions, blackheads, and whiteheads are significantly reduced. Skin texture becomes noticeably smoother and post-acne marks begin to fade due to tretinoin's cell-renewal action.
71% report positive overall experienceMaintenance Phase — Optimal Results
With continued use, the skin reaches a new baseline of clarity. Acne is well-controlled, texture is improved, and the anti-aging benefits of tretinoin become more apparent. Some users report achieving and maintaining near-complete clearance by the 6-month mark.
Most see complete or near-complete clearanceRatings by platform
188+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dual-action formula tackles both bacteria and pore congestion simultaneously
- Statistically proven superior to clindamycin or tretinoin monotherapy
- Lightweight, alcohol-free gel that doesn't feel heavy or greasy
- Bonus anti-aging benefits from tretinoin (collagen, wrinkles, tone)
- Fragrance-free — suitable for scent-sensitive individuals
- Works for hormonal, inflammatory, and comedonal acne types
- Long-term results are often dramatic with patient use
- Approved for teens (age 12+) and adults alike
Criticized
- Significant purging phase in weeks 1–6 deters many users
- Requires prescription — cannot be purchased OTC
- High cost without insurance coverage ($110+ CAD per tube)
- Mandatory daily sunscreen use adds an extra step
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- Antibiotic resistance risk with prolonged use
- Results may take 3–6 months — requires patience and commitment
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESZiana is the direct US equivalent of Biacna — identical active ingredients at the exact same concentrations (Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2% + Tretinoin 0.025%). Manufactured by a different brand but pharmacologically the same product. Generic versions (Veltin) are available at lower cost with a GoodRx coupon.
Generic version of Ziana available in the US with the same active ingredient profile. Requires a valid prescription. Significantly cheaper than brand-name versions with GoodRx or generic pricing. Same efficacy, slightly different excipients possible.
The European market equivalent by MEDA Pharma. Contains slightly lower clindamycin concentration (1% vs 1.2%) but identical tretinoin strength. Clinical studies comparing Acnatac to Epiduo show comparable efficacy for mild-to-moderate acne. Available by prescription in EU countries.
Replaces tretinoin with adapalene (3rd-gen retinoid) and clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide. Available OTC in some formulations. Addresses antibiotic resistance risk better due to BPO component. More drying for some users but no antibiotic resistance concerns. Suitable for those who cannot tolerate tretinoin's irritation profile.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Tactuo Gel — Galderma Canada (Adapalene / BPO)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Tretinoin degrades with exposure to light and air — always recap tightly after each use and do not transfer to another container.
Store at room temperature between 15°C–30°C (59°F–86°F). Keep away from direct light, heat, and humidity. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
60g collapsible tube with flip-top cap. Tube packaging protects the formula from air oxidation between uses. Do not squeeze excessively — dispense a pea-sized amount only.
Yes — the 60g tube is under 100ml and TSA/CATSA compliant for carry-on luggage. Keep in a cool, dark bag when traveling to protect from heat and light exposure.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Biacna Topical Gel is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The tretinoin component (a retinoid) is classified as a known teratogen and is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy as it may cause serious birth defects. Clindamycin can also pass into breast milk. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, stop using Biacna immediately and consult your doctor for a pregnancy-safe acne treatment alternative.
No. Biacna Topical Gel is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Polysorbate 80 (a fatty acid ester) and Glycerin, both of which can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you suspect your breakouts may be fungal in nature rather than bacterial acne, Biacna is not appropriate. Consult a dermatologist who can confirm the diagnosis and recommend a fungal-acne-safe treatment containing antifungals like ketoconazole.
Generally, combining Biacna with other actives is not recommended and can cause significant irritation. Since Biacna already contains tretinoin (the strongest retinoid), adding additional retinol is unnecessary and counterproductive. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can potentially destabilize tretinoin. AHAs and BHAs will significantly amplify irritation and dryness. Benzoyl peroxide should never be used on the same day as Biacna as it can inactivate clindamycin. If you need additional actives in your routine, discuss sequencing and compatibility with your dermatologist — most patients on Biacna keep their routine to just cleanser, Biacna, moisturizer, and SPF.
Biacna Topical Gel is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types dealing with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. The lightweight aqueous gel absorbs quickly without adding grease, making it particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin. Dry or sensitive skin types can use Biacna but should start with an every-other-night schedule and prioritize a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer to manage increased dryness. People with extremely sensitive or reactive skin (such as rosacea-prone skin) should discuss with their dermatologist before starting.
Biacna requires patience. Most users experience an initial purging phase (worsening breakouts, dryness, peeling) during weeks 1–6 as tretinoin accelerates cell turnover and pushes congestion to the surface. Most users notice meaningful improvement by weeks 6–8, with significant clearance by months 3–4. Full, optimal results often appear between months 4–6 of consistent nightly use. The 71% positive experience rate in clinical reviews reflects outcomes with continued use through the initial adjustment period — patience is essential with this prescription treatment.
Biacna Topical Gel is applied as a treatment step after cleansing at nighttime only. Apply to clean, completely dry skin (wait 10–20 minutes after cleansing to reduce irritation). After applying Biacna, wait 20–30 minutes before following with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, use a gentle cleanser, then a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Keep your nighttime routine simple: Cleanser → Pat Dry → Biacna Gel → Wait → Moisturizer. Avoid layering multiple actives over or under Biacna.
No. Biacna Topical Gel has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The aqueous (water-based) gel formula contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. In fact, the tretinoin component actively works to unclog existing pores and prevent new comedones from forming — it is specifically indicated for blackheads and whiteheads. The formula is suitable for acne-prone skin without risk of worsening pore congestion from the product itself.
Biacna Topical Gel has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store at room temperature (15°C–30°C), away from heat, light, and humidity. Always reseal the tube tightly after each use, as tretinoin is sensitive to air and light exposure which can degrade its potency. A 60g tube used at the recommended pea-sized amount nightly will typically last approximately 3–4 months in practice, well within the 12-month PAO window.
Verdict: Biacna Topical Gel by Valeant is a clinically proven, dual-action prescription acne treatment that delivers genuine, long-term results for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. The combination ofClindamycin Phosphate 1.2% andTretinoin 0.025% is statistically superior to either ingredient alone, simultaneously eliminating acne-causing bacteria and accelerating skin cell renewal to clear comedones and inflammatory lesions. The alcohol-free aqueous gel formula is lightweight and well-tolerated relative to many retinoid formulations. The key caveats are the significant initial purging phase (weeks 1–6), the strict requirement for daily SPF use, unsuitability during pregnancy or for fungal acne, and the need for a valid prescription. For patients who commit to the treatment timeline and support it with a good moisturizer and sunscreen, Biacna offers transformative results — with many users reporting near-complete clearance by month 5–6 and the added anti-aging benefit of long-term tretinoin use.
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 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Clindamycin Phosphate
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|