Brightening Toner
Brightening Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, watery brightening toner featuring Byoma's Barrier Lipid Complex with lactic acid, mandelic acid, urea, birch juice, and ceramide NP — gently exfoliating and hydrating in one step to reveal smoother, more radiant skin without compromising the skin barrier. Dermatologist-tested, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free.
Dual AHA Brightening
Lactic and mandelic acids work together to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, accelerate cell renewal, and fade hyperpigmentation — delivering visibly brighter, more even-toned skin over time.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual AHA Brightening
Lactic and mandelic acids work together to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, accelerate cell renewal, and fade hyperpigmentation — delivering visibly brighter, more even-toned skin over time.
Barrier Lipid Complex
Byoma's proprietary Barrier Lipid Complex combines ceramide NP and sphingolipids with skin-identical lipids to actively repair and strengthen the skin's moisture barrier while it exfoliates.
Multi-Humectant Hydration
A powerhouse blend of glycerin, diglycerin, urea, and sodium lactate draws moisture into the skin from multiple depths — preventing the dryness often associated with acid toners.
Birch Juice + Willow Bark
Betula Alba (Birch) Juice delivers antioxidants and soothing minerals, while Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract helps calm inflammation and supports a more balanced skin tone.
Pore-Refining Action
Regular use of lactic acid helps dissolve the buildup of dead skin cells within pores, visibly reducing their appearance and keeping skin clear and smooth without stripping.
Lightweight Non-Sticky Formula
Designed to feel weightless on all skin types, this non-sticky toner absorbs instantly without residue — making it ideal for layering under serums, moisturizers, and SPF.
Safety & compatibility
SAFELow-concentration topical lactic acid is generally considered low-risk in pregnancy by most dermatologists. However, always consult your OB-GYN or midwife before use. No retinoids, hydroquinone, or salicylic acid in this formula.
Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate — a laurate-based ester that may potentially feed Malassezia for highly sensitive individuals. If you are actively managing fungal acne, patch test carefully or consult a dermatologist.
All 19 ingredients score a 0 on the comedogenic scale. No pore-clogging oils or waxes. Officially non-comedogenic and dermatologist-approved — safe for acne-prone skin.
Contains absolutely no drying alcohols (ethanol, denatured alcohol, isopropyl alcohol). Safe for skin that reacts negatively to alcohol-based formulas, including sensitive and dry skin types.
Byoma is certified cruelty-free (verified by Cruelty-Free Kitty). No animal-derived ingredients; the formula is 100% vegan.
Lactic acid and mandelic acid increase photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ in the morning after use, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.
AHA exfoliants can trigger flare-ups for rosacea or eczema-prone skin. Start by using 2–3 times per week and assess tolerance before progressing to daily use. Patch test recommended.
No added synthetic or natural fragrances. Benzaldehyde is present as part of the Benzoic Acid preservative system (not added as a scent ingredient) at very low concentrations. Suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSLactic Acid ~2.8–4.1%Proven
The hero active of this toner. Lactic acid is a gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from fermented sugars. At these concentrations it exfoliates the outermost layer of dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover for brighter, smoother, and more even-toned skin. It also acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin — making it gentler than glycolic acid for most skin types.
- Mechanism: Disrupts cohesion of corneocytes in the stratum corneum to accelerate desquamation.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase activity to help fade dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Hydration: Behaves as a humectant; supports the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF).
- Microbiome: Studies show lactic acid supports healthy skin microbiome balance.
Mandelic Acid Low (after position 14)Proven
A larger-molecule AHA derived from bitter almonds. Its larger molecular size means it penetrates the skin more slowly than lactic or glycolic acid, making it exceptionally well-tolerated — even by sensitive skin and darker skin tones where the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from stronger AHAs is a concern. Works synergistically with lactic acid to target dullness, uneven texture, and mild acne.
- Antibacterial: Demonstrated antimicrobial properties helpful for acne-prone skin.
- PIH-Safe: Slower penetration reduces inflammation risk, making it safer for Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI.
- Collagen: Preliminary evidence suggests mandelic acid may stimulate fibroblast activity.
Urea ~1.1–1.7%Proven
A naturally occurring component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). At these low concentrations, urea acts primarily as a powerful humectant — drawing and binding water to the skin. At higher concentrations (above 10%), it provides keratolytic (exfoliating) effects, but in this formula it works to boost hydration and help other actives penetrate more effectively.
- Humectancy: Binds water molecules in the stratum corneum more effectively than many other humectants.
- Enhancer: Low concentrations of urea improve the skin's permeability, enhancing delivery of other actives.
- Clinically backed: Extensive clinical evidence supporting urea for dry and compromised skin conditions.
Sodium Lactate ~3.7–5.6%Proven
The sodium salt of lactic acid and one of the main components of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). At this relatively high concentration, sodium lactate is a very effective humectant that helps maintain skin hydration and flexibility. It also assists in optimizing the formula's pH level for effective AHA activity.
- NMF Component: Naturally found in healthy skin; replenishes depleted moisture factors in dry or compromised skin.
- pH Balance: Helps maintain an optimal acidic pH environment for AHA efficacy.
Ceramide NP + Sphingolipids Low (supporting actives)Proven
Ceramide NP is one of the most abundant ceramides naturally found in the skin's outer barrier. Together with sphingolipids (the broader lipid family ceramides belong to), these barrier-reinforcing lipids help seal the skin's protective layer — preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and shielding against environmental stressors. This makes Byoma's Brightening Toner unique among AHA toners, which typically strip rather than reinforce the barrier.
- Barrier repair: Ceramides form ~40% of the lipid matrix in the stratum corneum; topical application helps restore depleted levels.
- TEWL reduction: Clinical studies show ceramide-containing formulations significantly reduce water loss.
- Skin-identical: Ceramide NP is bioidentical to ceramides naturally present in human skin.
Betula Alba (Birch) Juice Mid-formulaPromising
Birch juice (sap) is a water-based botanical rich in minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. It replaces some of the plain water in the formula, adding a light dose of skin-conditioning nutrients. Known in Scandinavian skincare for its brightening and soothing properties.
- Antioxidant: Contains natural polyphenols and flavonoids that help neutralize free radicals.
- Soothing: Traditionally used to calm irritated skin; contains betulin with anti-inflammatory properties.
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract Mid-formulaPromising
Often marketed as a "natural salicylic acid," willow bark contains salicin which can theoretically convert to salicylic acid. However, research indicates topical conversion is limited and it does not exfoliate like true BHA. Its primary benefit here is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action — helping calm redness and support a more even complexion.
- Anti-inflammatory: Salicin and polyphenols reduce inflammation and soothe reactive skin.
- Antioxidant: Helps protect skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) SupportingProven
Pure Vitamin E — a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and UV exposure. Also helps stabilize the formula and maintain the integrity of the ceramide and sphingolipid complex. Works synergistically with other antioxidants to enhance overall formula performance.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals in the lipid bilayer of the skin barrier.
- Stabilizer: Helps extend the shelf life and stability of the product's lipid components.
19 ingredients
Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Sodium Lactate, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Diglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Urea, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Ceramide NP, Mandelic Acid, Benzoic Acid, Sphingolipids, Sodium Phytate, Betula Alba (Birch) Juice, Tocopherol, Benzaldehyde, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, dry skin immediately after cleansing. Pat — don't rub — into face, neck, and décolletage. Always follow with SPF in your morning routine. Avoid layering with other AHA/BHA exfoliants in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Begin with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat your face dry — the toner is designed to work on clean, dry skin for optimal AHA penetration and to prevent diluting the formula.
Dispense & Apply
Shake the bottle gently, then pour a small amount (3–5 drops) onto clean palms. Alternatively, soak a cotton pad for a more targeted application across the face, neck, and décolletage.
Pat Gently — Don't Rub
Using your fingertips, pat the toner gently into the skin rather than rubbing or dragging. This prevents friction-related irritation and allows the formula to absorb evenly and completely.
Allow to Absorb (30 Seconds)
Wait approximately 30 seconds for full absorption before applying your next skincare step. The toner absorbs quickly and should not leave a sticky or tacky residue on the skin.
Layer Your Routine
Follow with your serum, moisturizer, and — critically — SPF in the morning. The brand recommends pairing with other Byoma serums and moisturizers for maximum barrier-supporting benefits.
New to AHAs? Start Gradually
If you're new to acid toners, begin with 2–3 applications per week and monitor your skin's response over 2 weeks before progressing to daily AM + PM use as directed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, uneven, or hyperpigmented skin
- You want to exfoliate without a harsh, stripping formula
- You have oily or combination skin prone to enlarged pores
- You're new to acid toners and want a gentle entry point
- You want an affordable AHA toner with barrier-supporting ceramides
- You're concerned about skin tone, post-acne marks, or dark spots
- You want a fragrance-free, alcohol-free, everyday exfoliating toner
Consider alternatives if:
- You want a high-strength AHA exfoliant (e.g., 10%+ glycolic acid)
- You are actively experiencing a fungal acne (Malassezia) breakout
- You have very reactive rosacea or active eczema
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding without medical clearance
- You are already using a retinoid or strong BHA daily — doubling up may over-exfoliate
- You prefer a niacinamide-focused brightening approach without AHAs
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, watery formula absorbs instantly with zero greasiness. Lactic acid helps dissolve excess sebum and pore congestion. Ideal for controlling shine and refining the look of enlarged pores.
Multi-humectant complex (glycerin, diglycerin, urea, sodium lactate) provides meaningful hydration. The formula exfoliates gently without stripping, but dry skin types may still want to layer a richer moisturizer on top.
Balances oily zones while providing enough hydration for drier areas. Non-greasy finish works perfectly across all facial zones without needing zone-specific application.
Fragrance-free and alcohol-free. Mandelic acid's larger molecular size makes it gentler than glycolic alternatives. Patch test recommended; begin with 2–3x weekly use. Not ideal for reactive rosacea.
An ideal maintenance toner for skin that's already in good condition but wants to stay bright, smooth, and clear. Easy daily use for an effortless brightening boost.
Non-comedogenic (0/5) with gentle exfoliating AHAs. Mandelic acid's antimicrobial properties offer an added benefit for acne. Note: contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate — patch test if prone to fungal acne.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Radiance Boost
From the very first application, most users notice skin looks more awake and refreshed. The multi-humectant formula instantly plumps and hydrates while lactic acid begins its gentle exfoliating action at the skin's surface.
89% noticedSmoother Texture & Balanced Tone
Cell turnover begins to show results. Rough patches and dry flakiness start to diminish as dead skin cells are removed more consistently. Skin texture feels measurably smoother to the touch, and pores appear tighter.
76% noticedVisibly Brighter Complexion
Continued use of lactic and mandelic acids begins to show a meaningful improvement in overall luminosity. Early signs of hyperpigmentation and uneven tone start to fade as newer, healthier skin cells surface.
68% noticedFading Dark Spots & Improved Clarity
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (acne marks, sun spots) becomes noticeably lighter with consistent use. Skin tone appears more uniform and clearer. Pores look visibly refined and skin maintains a healthy, non-greasy radiance.
54% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight — absorbs instantly without residue
- Truly fragrance-free and alcohol-free formula
- Rare AHA toner that also contains barrier-repairing ceramides
- Dual AHA (lactic + mandelic) for gentle but effective brightening
- Great value: 150ml at an accessible price point
- Dermatologist-tested; suitable for a wide age range
- No stinging or burning on first use for most users
- Works well as a daily toner for brightening maintenance
Criticized
- AHA concentrations are not disclosed on packaging
- May not be potent enough for treating deep or stubborn hyperpigmentation
- Shake-out bottle opening can dispense too much product at once
- Some users with sensitive skin report initial dryness
- Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is a potential concern for fungal acne-prone skin
- Results for dark spot fading require 2–3 months of consistent use
- Plastic packaging is not recyclable in most regions — sustainability concern
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESA disclosed 5.34% lactic acid toner enriched with sodium hyaluronate and NMF components. Similar focus on hydrating exfoliation. Slightly higher AHA percentage makes it a stronger but still gentle brightener — a great step up for those who want more documented potency.
A 7% glycolic acid toner with Tasmanian pepperberry to reduce irritation. More potent exfoliant at a fraction of the price, but lacks ceramides and is better suited for skin accustomed to AHAs. More likely to cause initial irritation for beginners than Byoma's gentler formula.
A niacinamide + alpha arbutin + vitamin C derivative toner for brightening via a completely different mechanism — no AHA exfoliation. Better suited to those who cannot tolerate AHAs at all, or who want to layer a non-exfoliating brightener alongside retinol without acid overload.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging for confirmation. Discard if the product changes color, smell, or consistency before the PAO date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid bathroom shelves exposed to steam if possible. Keep the bottle upright. No refrigeration required, but cool storage may extend longevity.
Tall rectangular bottle with a small shake-out opening. Dispenses one controlled drop at a time. Note: the rigid plastic bottle is not recyclable in most standard curbside recycling programs.
The 150ml / 5.07 fl oz bottle exceeds the 100ml (3.4 fl oz) airline carry-on limit. Decant into a travel-safe container for flights. The formula is available in the full 150ml size only.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters — the most commonly flagged ingredients during pregnancy. Low-concentration topical lactic acid (as found in this toner) is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy by most dermatologists, but there is limited formal safety data for AHA use during pregnancy. Always consult your OB-GYN, midwife, or dermatologist before adding any active ingredient to your routine during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If your healthcare provider recommends caution, a simple fragrance-free, AHA-free hydrating toner is a safe alternative for the duration of your pregnancy.
The formula contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, a laurate-based emulsifier. Because Malassezia yeast can feed on certain fatty acids and esters, this ingredient may potentially be problematic for those with highly active fungal acne. Most users with fungal acne-prone skin do not react negatively to Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate at low concentrations, as its polyglyceryl backbone limits bioavailability. However, if you are actively managing a fungal acne breakout, we recommend patch testing on a small area first, or temporarily switching to a formula that is definitively Malassezia-safe (free of all fatty acid esters, ferments, and polysorbates).
With Retinol: Do not layer retinol and AHA in the same routine. Use BYOMA Brightening Toner in your AM routine and retinol only in PM, or alternate evenings (AHA one night, retinol the next). With Vitamin C: Generally compatible. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) works best at a low pH, which is similar to AHAs. You can use them in the same routine — apply the toner first, let it absorb, then apply vitamin C serum. With Other AHA/BHA: Avoid layering multiple exfoliants in the same routine. If you use a BHA cleanser or another AHA serum, do not combine with this toner in the same session — alternate instead. Over-exfoliation leads to barrier damage, redness, and sensitivity.
BYOMA markets this toner as suitable for all skin types, and in practice it works especially well for oily, combination, and normal skin. The lightweight, non-greasy formula is ideal for oily skin that wants AHA exfoliation without adding weight. Dry skin can benefit from the humectant-rich formula but may want to layer a heavier moisturizer. Sensitive skin can use it carefully — start 2–3x per week. Acne-prone skin benefits from gentle AHA exfoliation and the non-comedogenic formula (0/5 comedogenic rating). Not recommended as a first-line treatment for very reactive rosacea or active eczema.
Most users notice an immediate "freshness" and radiance boost from the very first use — this comes from the hydrating humectants plumping the skin and the light exfoliation removing surface dullness. Texture improvements typically become visible within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. For hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven tone, meaningful improvement generally requires 6–12 weeks of regular use. Topical brightening — especially from AHAs — works by accelerating cell turnover, which is a gradual process tied to the skin's natural renewal cycle (approximately 28 days in younger skin, slower with age). Consistency and SPF use are essential for best results.
Apply BYOMA Brightening Toner as your first active step, immediately after cleansing and before any serums, essences, moisturizers, or SPF. The thin, watery consistency means it should always go on clean, dry skin before heavier products. The brand recommends use both AM and PM. In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as AHAs increase photosensitivity. Do not apply before or immediately after an oil cleanser, as oil residue can create a barrier that reduces AHA penetration.
No — BYOMA Brightening Toner is officially non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested. All 19 ingredients score a 0/5 on the comedogenic scale, meaning no ingredient in the formula is known to clog pores. In fact, the lactic acid in the formula actively helps keep pores clear by exfoliating the build-up of dead skin cells and sebum that causes congestion. The formula contains no pore-clogging oils, waxes, or silicones. It is generally very well-tolerated by acne-prone skin types.
The period after opening (PAO) for BYOMA Brightening Toner is 12 months. This means once you open the bottle, use the product within one year for guaranteed efficacy and safety. Given the 150ml size and recommended daily AM + PM use, the bottle typically lasts approximately 2–4 months with regular use — well within the PAO window. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product stability. Discard immediately if the formula changes color, odor, or consistency before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The BYOMA Brightening Toner is a genuinely well-formulated, barrier-first AHA toner that stands out in a crowded market. Its unique combination of dual AHAs (lactic + mandelic), a rich humectant complex, and barrier-repairing ceramides makes it one of the few exfoliating toners that brightens without stripping. At under $16 for 150ml, the value is exceptional. The main caveats are that AHA concentrations are not disclosed, meaning it may be too gentle for those targeting stubborn hyperpigmentation. For beginners to acid toners, those with sensitive or combination skin, and anyone wanting an everyday brightening toner that supports rather than compromises the skin barrier — this is an excellent, dermatologist-tested choice.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lactate
Humectant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Salix Alba Bark Extract
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing, Tonic
|
Irritation
|