Cabtreo Topical Gel 1.2%/0.15%/3.1%
Cabtreo Topical Gel 1.2%/0.15%/3.1%
Product Description
Product overview
Cabtreo Topical Gel 1.2%/0.15%/3.1% by Bausch Health is the first and only FDA-approved triple-combination prescription acne gel, uniting clindamycin phosphate (antibiotic), adapalene (retinoid), and benzoyl peroxide (oxidizing agent) in a single once-daily pump. Indicated for moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older, it delivers three clinically proven mechanisms of action simultaneously for comprehensive lesion reduction.
First-Ever FDA Triple Combo
The only prescription gel to combine clindamycin phosphate, adapalene, and benzoyl peroxide in a single stabilized formula — eliminating the need for multiple separate products.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFirst-Ever FDA Triple Combo
The only prescription gel to combine clindamycin phosphate, adapalene, and benzoyl peroxide in a single stabilized formula — eliminating the need for multiple separate products.
Targets Acne 3 Ways
Clindamycin kills C. acnes bacteria, adapalene normalizes keratinization and reduces inflammation, and benzoyl peroxide oxidizes and destroys bacteria while clearing pore blockages.
Up to 80% Reduction in Inflammatory Lesions
Phase 3 clinical data showed up to 80% reduction in inflammatory lesions and up to 73% reduction in non-inflammatory lesions at 12 weeks versus vehicle.
AAD 2024 Guideline-Aligned
The American Academy of Dermatology 2024 guidelines recommend topical benzoyl peroxide, antibiotic, and retinoid as first-line acne therapy — exactly what Cabtreo delivers.
Simplified Once-Daily Routine
One pump, one application per day replaces what would otherwise be a multi-step regimen with separate antibiotic, retinoid, and benzoyl peroxide products.
Antibiotic Resistance Mitigation
Benzoyl peroxide is co-formulated specifically to counteract the risk of antibiotic resistance associated with topical clindamycin monotherapy.
Safety & compatibility
SAFECabtreo contains adapalene, a retinoid. Retinoids are teratogenic and contraindicated during pregnancy. Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not use during pregnancy.
To avoid direct infant exposure, do not apply Cabtreo to the nipple or areola area. If applied to the chest, ensure no infant skin contact. Consult your doctor before using while breastfeeding.
Cabtreo does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, oils, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. It is considered safe for those prone to fungal acne.
The gel base uses carbomer (a water-soluble polymer) and propylene glycol — both non-comedogenic. The formula is designed to treat, not clog, pores.
Adapalene and benzoyl peroxide both increase photosensitivity. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning beds, and UV lamps. Apply daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Do not use concomitantly with erythromycin-containing topical or oral products — the antibiotic combination may cause antagonism and reduce effectiveness.
Do not combine with other drying/peeling agents, high-alcohol toners, or abrasive scrubs. Increased irritation risk, especially during the first 4 weeks of use.
Clindamycin has been associated with severe colitis. Discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe stomach cramps, watery diarrhea, or bloody diarrhea.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClindamycin Phosphate 1.2%Proven
A lincosamide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of C. acnes (Cutibacterium acnes). It reduces both the bacterial population and associated inflammatory mediators responsible for papules and pustules.
- Mechanism: Binds 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking bacterial peptide chain elongation
- Target: Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) — the primary acne-causing bacterium
- Concentration: 1.2% clindamycin phosphate = 1% clindamycin base equivalent
- Clinical Data: Well-established efficacy in combination acne therapy; included in AAD first-line guidelines
Adapalene 0.15%Proven
A third-generation synthetic retinoid that binds to specific nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR-β and RAR-γ). It normalizes follicular keratinization, reduces microcomedone formation, and exerts anti-inflammatory activity — addressing both non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions.
- Mechanism: Binds RAR-β/γ receptors, modulating cellular differentiation and keratinization
- vs. Tretinoin: More chemically stable, less irritating, and better tolerated in combination formulas
- Concentration: 0.15% (higher than OTC Differin 0.1%) for enhanced efficacy on moderate-to-severe acne
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits arachidonic acid metabolism and toll-like receptor pathways
Benzoyl Peroxide 3.1%Proven
An oxidizing agent with bactericidal and keratolytic effects. It generates free radicals that oxidize bacterial proteins, effectively killing C. acnes with no reported bacterial resistance — making it the gold standard adjunct to topical antibiotics.
- Mechanism: Oxidative free radical generation destroys bacterial cell membranes
- Resistance-Free: No documented resistance to benzoyl peroxide in C. acnes
- Concentration: 3.1% — lower than traditional 5–10% formulas for improved tolerability while maintaining efficacy
- Keratolytic Effect: Helps shed dead skin cells to unclog follicles and prevent comedone formation
Carbomer Homopolymer Type C (Carbomer 980 / TEA-Carbomer) InactivePromising
A water-soluble polyacrylic acid polymer used as the primary gelling agent. Carbomer 980 creates the lightweight, clear gel texture that enables uniform distribution and controlled release of the three active ingredients across the skin surface.
- Function: Thickener and gelling agent; stabilizes the triple-combination formula
- Comedogenicity: Rating 0 — does not clog pores
- Neutralizer: Activated by potassium hydroxide to form the gel network
Propylene Glycol InactiveProven
A multifunctional humectant and solvent. Propylene glycol draws moisture into the skin, aids in the delivery of active ingredients through the stratum corneum, and extends the shelf life of the formula through its antimicrobial properties.
- Function: Humectant, penetration enhancer, solvent, preservative booster
- Skin Benefit: Helps offset some of the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide and adapalene
- Safety: Well-established safety profile in topical dermatological products; recognized as safe by the FDA
Potassium Hydroxide InactiveProven
An alkaline pH adjuster used to neutralize the carbomer polymer, activating it to form the gel network and setting the formula's pH at skin-compatible levels (approximately pH 5–6).
- Function: pH adjuster / carbomer neutralizer
- Not Present in Final Product: Reacts completely during manufacturing; not a free base in the finished gel
- Purpose: Ensures stability of the triple-combination formula and optimal skin pH
Purified Water InactiveProven
The primary vehicle base for the aqueous gel system. Purified water ensures the uniform dispersion of all three active ingredients and inactive components throughout the formulation.
- Function: Primary solvent and vehicle
- Grade: USP purified water — highly controlled pharmaceutical quality
7 ingredients total (Active + Inactive)
Active Ingredients: Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2%, Adapalene 0.15%, Benzoyl Peroxide 3.1%
Inactive Ingredients: Carbomer Homopolymer Type C (Carbomer 980) [listed as TEA-Carbomer on some labels], Potassium Hydroxide, Propylene Glycol, Purified Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Cabtreo as the first active treatment step after cleansing and drying skin. Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to buffer initial dryness. In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as Cabtreo increases photosensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash the affected area with a mild, soap-free cleanser. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat skin completely dry before applying Cabtreo.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Press the pump once to dispense a pea-sized amount of gel onto your fingertip. This amount is sufficient to cover the entire face.
Dot and Spread Evenly
Place small dots on your forehead, both cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently spread the gel in a thin, even layer across your entire face.
Avoid Sensitive Areas
Keep away from the eyes, mouth, nasal passages, paranasal creases, and mucous membranes. Avoid broken, sunburned, or eczematous skin.
Wash Hands Immediately
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water right after application to prevent accidental transfer to eyes, lips, or other sensitive areas.
Apply Moisturizer & SPF
Follow with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to reduce dryness and irritation. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris (papules, pustules, nodules)
- You are 12 years of age or older
- You want to simplify a multi-product acne regimen into one step
- You have not responded well to single or dual-ingredient topicals
- Your dermatologist recommends a retinoid + antibiotic + BPO approach
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You are not pregnant or breastfeeding
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or plan to become pregnant (retinoid contraindicated)
- You have a known allergy to clindamycin, adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, or lincomycin
- You have a history of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin prone to severe irritation
- You are using erythromycin-based topical or oral products
- You only have mild, infrequent breakouts or blackheads without inflammation
- You are undergoing waxing in treated areas (contraindicated)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without adding greasiness. Benzoyl peroxide and adapalene help reduce excess sebum and prevent new clogged pores.
Specifically designed for acne vulgaris treatment. Targets the four main acne pathways: bacteria, inflammation, keratinization, and sebum. The triple-combination is dermatologist-preferred.
Effective across T-zone and drier cheek areas. May require a richer moisturizer on dry zones during the initial adaptation period.
Benzoyl peroxide and adapalene can cause significant dryness and peeling, especially in the first month. A generous, non-comedogenic moisturizer is essential alongside treatment.
Fragrance-free and paraben-free. However, the combination of retinoid + BPO + antibiotic may be intense for very reactive skin. Start gradually (every other day) if sensitivity is a concern.
Results timeline
WEEKS 9–12Initial Adjustment Period
Skin may begin to feel drier than usual. Some users notice mild redness or stinging, especially around the nose and mouth. This is normal and expected as skin adjusts to three active ingredients simultaneously.
Very common in first weekPurging Phase & Early Antibacterial Action
Clindamycin begins reducing bacterial load quickly. Some users may experience an initial purge as adapalene accelerates skin cell turnover. Existing lesions may appear temporarily worse before improving. Irritation, peeling, and dryness peak during this phase.
54% reduction in inflammatory lesions by Week 4 (clinical data)Visible Lesion Reduction
The majority of users begin to see meaningful reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions. Skin texture starts to improve as adapalene normalizes keratinization and reduces comedone formation. Irritation typically subsides significantly.
~65% notice moderate-to-significant clearingPeak Efficacy — Clear to Almost Clear Skin
Phase 3 clinical trials show up to 80% reduction in inflammatory lesions and up to 73% reduction in non-inflammatory lesions at 12 weeks. Up to 50% of patients achieved clear or almost clear skin (IGA score 0 or 1).
Up to 50% achieved clear/almost clear skinRatings by platform
3+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- First and only FDA-approved triple-combination topical acne gel
- Replaces multiple separate prescriptions with one pump
- Clinically proven — up to 80% inflammatory lesion reduction in 12 weeks
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, alcohol-free formula
- Lightweight gel texture, fast-absorbing and non-greasy
- BPO included to prevent antibiotic resistance
- AAD 2024 guideline-aligned first-line therapy
- Suitable for moderate-to-severe acne that hasn't responded to simpler treatments
- Once-daily application improves patient compliance
Criticized
- Prescription-only — requires a dermatologist visit
- High cost without insurance (brand-name only, no generic as of 2026)
- Significant initial dryness, peeling, and irritation common in weeks 1–4
- Contraindicated in pregnancy (retinoid component)
- Cannot use with erythromycin products
- Not for mild or comedonal-only acne
- Increases photosensitivity — daily SPF is mandatory
- Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics and hair
- Limited availability in 20g and 50g pump sizes only
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESEpiduo Forte (adapalene 0.3%/BPO 2.5%) covers the retinoid and BPO components. Adding a separate clindamycin 1% gel replicates all three of Cabtreo's active ingredients — but requires two separate prescriptions and a two-step application.
Contains clindamycin phosphate 1.2% and benzoyl peroxide 3.75% — covers the antibiotic and BPO actions of Cabtreo but lacks the retinoid (adapalene). A separate retinoid prescription may be needed for comprehensive acne control. Generics available.
Achieves similar active ingredient coverage at a fraction of the cost by using OTC Differin (adapalene 0.1%), a prescription clindamycin 1% gel, and an OTC BPO wash. Requires a multi-step routine and uses slightly lower adapalene concentration. Discuss with your dermatologist.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Onexton Gel (Vyne Therapeutics)
Ziana Gel (Medicis)
Storage & shelf life
STORAGEUse within 10 weeks of first opening, or by the expiration date on the label — whichever comes first. Discard any unused product after this period.
Store at room temperature between 68°F–77°F (20°C–25°C). Store in a cool, dry place. Keep away from heat, direct sunlight, and humidity. Do not freeze.
Available in airless pump dispensers: 20-gram pump (travel/starter size) and 50-gram pump (standard). Store upright. The pump protects the formula from oxidation.
The 20g pump is travel-friendly and under the TSA 3.4 oz (100ml) liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Keep out of reach of children.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Cabtreo is not safe during pregnancy. It contains adapalene, a retinoid, which is teratogenic and contraindicated during pregnancy. Retinoids can cause serious birth defects. You must stop using Cabtreo immediately if you become pregnant and consult your healthcare provider. Regarding breastfeeding, you should not apply Cabtreo directly to the nipple or areola, and ensure the infant does not come into direct contact with treated skin. Always consult your doctor before using Cabtreo if you are breastfeeding.
Yes. Cabtreo is considered safe for people prone to fungal acne (Pityrosporum folliculitis / Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains no ferments, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or plant oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The active ingredient clindamycin is actually an antibacterial — not an antifungal — and does not treat fungal acne directly, but the formula itself will not worsen Malassezia-related breakouts.
Use with caution. Cabtreo already contains a retinoid (adapalene 0.15%), so adding additional retinol or retinoids creates a risk of over-exfoliation and severe irritation. Similarly, layering AHA/BHA acids, high-concentration vitamin C serums, or other peeling agents on top of Cabtreo is not recommended and may cause excessive dryness, redness, and barrier damage. Avoid erythromycin products entirely — they are contraindicated. Always consult your prescribing dermatologist before combining Cabtreo with any other active ingredient treatments.
Cabtreo is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types with moderate-to-severe inflammatory acne. It is also effective for combination skin. Those with dry or sensitive skin can use it but should be prepared for an initial adjustment period with significant dryness and irritation — a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer is essential. Cabtreo is a prescription treatment intended for acne vulgaris, not for routine use on non-acne-prone skin types.
According to Phase 3 clinical trial data, Cabtreo shows measurable lesion reduction as early as Week 4. However, the full benefit is typically seen at 12 weeks, when up to 80% reduction in inflammatory lesions and up to 73% reduction in non-inflammatory lesions can be achieved. Up to 50% of patients reached clear or almost clear skin at 12 weeks. Some patients experience an initial "purging" phase in weeks 2–4 as adapalene accelerates skin cell turnover. Consistent daily use is essential for best results.
Cabtreo is applied after cleansing and drying your skin — it goes on as the first treatment product. The recommended routine is: (1) Cleanse with a gentle, mild cleanser; (2) Pat skin completely dry; (3) Apply Cabtreo in a thin layer over the face; (4) Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer; (5) Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning. Use once daily, preferably in the evening to reduce photosensitivity concerns. Do not apply over damp skin.
No. Cabtreo has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5 — it is considered non-comedogenic. The gel base uses carbomer (a water-soluble polymer) and propylene glycol, both of which are non-comedogenic. In fact, the formula is designed to actively unclog pores through the keratolytic action of benzoyl peroxide and the retinoid action of adapalene. It contains no oils, silicones, or fatty acid esters that would contribute to pore-clogging.
Cabtreo should be used within 10 weeks of first opening, or before the expiration date on the label — whichever comes first. Store at room temperature between 68°F–77°F (20°C–25°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. The 20g pump is typically a 30-day supply; the 50g pump is approximately a 60–90 day supply depending on usage. Discard any remaining product after 10 weeks from opening.
Verdict: Cabtreo Topical Gel 1.2%/0.15%/3.1% by Bausch Health is a landmark prescription acne treatment — the first FDA-approved triple-combination topical gel that unites clindamycin phosphate, adapalene, and benzoyl peroxide in a single daily pump. For patients with moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris, it delivers clinically validated results with up to 80% inflammatory lesion reduction at 12 weeks and a simplified once-daily regimen. The lightweight, fragrance-free, paraben-free gel formula is non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe. Key limitations include the prescription-only requirement, high brand-name cost (no generic as of 2026), contraindication in pregnancy, and a challenging initial adjustment period involving dryness and irritation. For patients who qualify, Cabtreo represents the most comprehensive single-product topical acne therapy currently available, fully aligned with AAD 2024 first-line treatment guidelines.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
Adapalene
|
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 0 |
Tea-Carbomer
Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|