Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum For Sensitive Skin
Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum For Sensitive Skin
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, fast-absorbing face serum powered by a clinically studied Triple Oat Complex — oat kernel flour, oat kernel oil, and oat kernel extract — plus calming feverfew antioxidant. Designed for sensitive, reactive, and eczema-prone skin to instantly soothe, hydrate, and fortify the moisture barrier without fragrance, parabens, or pore-clogging ingredients. Dermatologist-recommended and clinically tested: 92% of users agreed skin felt instantly smooth after first application.
Triple Oat Complex
Combines oat kernel flour, oat kernel oil, and oat kernel extract — three distinct oat-derived actives working together to soothe inflammation, lock in moisture, and protect the skin barrier. Colloidal oatmeal is FDA-recognized as a skin protectant active ingredient.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Oat Complex
Combines oat kernel flour, oat kernel oil, and oat kernel extract — three distinct oat-derived actives working together to soothe inflammation, lock in moisture, and protect the skin barrier. Colloidal oatmeal is FDA-recognized as a skin protectant active ingredient.
Feverfew (Chrysanthemum Parthenium) Extract
A potent antioxidant and calming botanical used to visibly reduce redness and sensitivity. Clinically documented to soothe reactive skin more effectively than vitamin C without the irritation risk, making it ideal for sensitized and rosacea-prone skin.
Moisture Barrier Fortification
The silicone-based emollient system (dimethicone, dimethiconol, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane) creates a breathable protective film that seals in moisture and reduces transepidermal water loss, strengthening the skin's long-term resilience.
Clinically & Dermatologist Tested
Tested on sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Free of the 26 most common fragrance allergens, parabens, phthalates, dyes, and alcohol. Proven hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic through standardized testing protocols used by leading dermatologists.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen UV filters. All 19 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and while nursing. Always consult your OB-GYN if you have specific concerns.
Contains Isodecyl Neopentanoate (a C10 ester), Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate (a C8 ester), and Avena Sativa Kernel Oil (containing oleic and linoleic fatty acids). These can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you are actively managing fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. Key occlusive ingredients (dimethicone, dimethiconol) are rated 1/5 for pore-clogging risk. The brand explicitly certifies this product as non-comedogenic with testing documentation. Safe for acne-prone skin types.
Contains no added fragrances, essential oils, or masking agents. Free from the 26 most common EU-listed fragrance allergens. Hypoallergenic designation confirmed through dermatological patch testing on sensitive skin panels.
Clinically tested and proven gentle on eczema-prone (atopic/eczematic) skin when used as part of the Aveeno Calm + Restore regimen. Colloidal oatmeal is FDA-recognized as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient for eczema relief.
This serum contains no acids or active exfoliants, so it will not conflict with retinol or AHA/BHA products. Apply this serum before stronger actives (thinnest to thickest), or use it as a calming step on off-nights when resting from retinoids. Avoid layering immediately with high-concentration vitamin C serums.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTriple Oat Complex (Avena Sativa Kernel Flour + Oil + Extract) Key ActivesProven
The hero ingredient system of this serum combines three distinct oat-derived actives: (1) Avena Sativa Kernel Flour — finely ground oat powder with soothing, exfoliating, and barrier-repairing beta-glucan content; (2) Avena Sativa Kernel Oil — nourishing oat lipids rich in linoleic and oleic fatty acids that replenish the skin's lipid barrier; and (3) Avena Sativa Kernel Extract — concentrated colloidal oatmeal recognized by the FDA as a skin protectant active, with clinically documented anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturizing benefits.
- FDA Recognition: Colloidal oatmeal (Avena Sativa) is the only botanical ingredient recognized in the FDA OTC Skin Protectant Monograph — it can be legally claimed as an active ingredient on US product labels.
- Beta-Glucan: The key bioactive compound in oat extract — a polysaccharide shown in clinical studies to accelerate wound healing, reduce TEWL (transepidermal water loss), and calm eczema flare-ups at concentrations as low as 0.1%.
- Clinical Claim: Aveeno has conducted extensive clinical research across diverse populations demonstrating the benefits of their oat-based formulations in dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin conditions.
Glycerin High Concentration (2nd on INCI)Proven
A skin-identical humectant present in large amounts (second ingredient after water). Glycerin draws moisture from the environment and from deeper skin layers to the surface, maintains the skin's natural lipid barrier between cells in a healthy liquid-crystal state, and protects against external irritants. Effective from as low as 3% concentration, with added benefits for dry skin at 20–40%.
- Humectant Efficacy: A 2016 comparative study found glycerin outperformed both AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a pure humectant in terms of water-binding capacity in the stratum corneum.
- Barrier Repair: Glycerin supports healthy ceramide and lipid organization within the skin barrier, reducing water loss and sensitivity to irritants.
- Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 — completely non-comedogenic and non-irritating at any concentration.
Feverfew (Chrysanthemum Parthenium Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice) Calming ActivePromising
A botanical extract derived from the feverfew plant, historically used as an anti-inflammatory remedy. In skincare, feverfew juice provides antioxidant protection and visibly reduces redness and skin reactivity. It is featured across Aveeno's entire Calm + Restore line as a calming co-active alongside the oat complex. Studies by J&J (Aveeno's parent company) have shown feverfew to be more effective than vitamin C in quenching reactive oxygen species without the risk of oxidative irritation.
- Antioxidant: Rich in parthenolide-free feverfew (PF-Feverfew), which maintains antioxidant activity while minimizing the contact sensitization associated with parthenolide in raw feverfew extracts.
- Anti-Redness: Clinical data from Aveeno's own studies show measurable reductions in facial erythema (visible redness) with consistent use of feverfew-containing formulas.
Dimethicone + Dimethiconol Emollient Silicone SystemProven
Two complementary silicone polymers that serve as the serum's primary emollient and occlusive agents. Dimethicone creates a breathable, non-comedogenic protective film on the skin surface that smooths texture, fills fine lines temporarily, and reduces transepidermal water loss. Dimethiconol is a hydroxyl-terminated silicone that adds additional moisturizing and smoothing properties and contributes to the serum's silky, non-tacky finish.
- Scar & Eczema Use: Dimethicone is used in medical-grade scar gels and eczema barrier products due to its proven ability to soften and elasticize skin while protecting against external irritants.
- Non-Comedogenic: Dimethicone is rated 1/5 for comedogenicity — extremely unlikely to clog pores. Safe for acne-prone and oily skin types.
- TEWL Reduction: As an occlusive, dimethicone measurably reduces transepidermal water loss, helping skin stay hydrated longer between applications.
19 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Chlorphenesin, Dimethicone, Succinoglycan, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Sodium Hydroxide, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning on dry skin. Use morning and night before moisturizer. Pump 3–4 drops into palm, then massage gently onto face. Wait ~15–30 seconds before layering the next product.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser suited for sensitive skin. Pat dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Apply the serum to completely dry (not damp) skin for optimal performance and stability.
Prime the Pump (First Use Only)
Before the first use, pump the dispenser once to clear the mechanism and prime the dropper channel. Discard the first pump's output — subsequent pumps will dispense properly. This is normal for airless pump formats.
Dispense 3–4 Drops (Approx. Dime-Size Amount)
Pump 3–4 times into your palm to collect enough serum to cover your full face and neck. The lightweight, silky texture spreads easily — a little goes a long way. Do not apply directly from the pump to your face to avoid contamination.
Press & Massage Gently
Using your fingertips, gently press the serum into your skin with light upward and outward strokes. Avoid dragging or rubbing. Focus on areas prone to dryness, redness, or irritation. The serum absorbs in approximately 15 seconds.
Follow with Moisturizer (Always)
This serum functions best as an under-moisturizer treatment, not as a standalone hydrator. Allow 15–30 seconds of absorption, then apply your regular moisturizer to lock in the serum's active ingredients and provide additional hydration. In the morning, finish with SPF 30+.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You are managing dry, dehydrated, or eczema-prone skin
- You need a fragrance-free, allergen-safe serum
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want a safe daily serum
- You're new to serums and want a gentle, beginner-friendly option
- You want to strengthen your skin barrier without strong actives
- You need a serum that layers seamlessly under makeup
- You're dealing with redness, rosacea-like flushing, or inflammation
Consider alternatives if:
- You are actively treating fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) — the oat oil and esters may not be compatible
- You want a serum with clinically proven brightening actives (no niacinamide or vitamin C here)
- You need anti-aging actives such as retinol, peptides, or growth factors
- You have very oily skin and prefer a completely water-based, silicone-free formula
- You want immediate, dramatic results — this serum is gentle and gradual in effect
- You prefer a serum with a defined hyaluronic acid concentration for plumping
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and tested directly on sensitive and reactive skin panels. The oat-feverfew formula is one of the safest soothing combinations available at the drugstore level.
The glycerin + oat oil + silicone combination is ideal for dry skin — humectants draw moisture in while emollients and occlusives seal it in. Best used under a rich moisturizer for very dry skin types. Clinically tested on eczema-prone skin.
Provides comfortable baseline hydration without adding weight or shine. Works well as a daily maintenance step to keep the moisture barrier healthy and skin looking smooth and calm year-round.
The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula works well across the face without overloading oilier zones. The non-comedogenic rating means the T-zone stays clear. Some combination skin types may find the silicone base slightly rich in humid climates.
Non-comedogenic and alcohol-free. The dimethicone system leaves a smooth finish without greasiness. Those with active fungal acne should exercise caution due to the oat kernel oil and ester ingredients. Traditional comedonal acne is unlikely to be aggravated.
Clinically proven gentle on eczema-prone skin. The oat-feverfew combination targets the inflammation and redness common in both eczema and rosacea. Dermatologist-recommended. Free from all top common contact allergens.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Smoothing & Soothing Sensation
Upon first application, the serum's humectant-silicone system delivers immediate skin-smoothing and a calming, slightly cooling sensation. Redness and reactive flushing may visibly calm within minutes of application. Skin feels softer and more comfortable right away.
92% noticed instantly smoother skinImproved Hydration & Reduced Irritation
With consistent AM and PM use, skin begins retaining more moisture throughout the day. Periods of dryness, tightness, and reactivity become less frequent. Users with eczema-prone skin often notice reduced flare-up frequency and intensity. Skin starts feeling more "baseline calm."
~75% report improved hydration within 2 weeksVisible Barrier Strengthening & Redness Reduction
The skin's moisture barrier begins to functionally strengthen, with measurable reductions in TEWL. Persistent redness and reactivity visibly diminish, particularly with sustained feverfew exposure. Skin texture becomes smoother and more even. Makeup applies and wears better over a healthier skin surface.
~70% see visible reduction in rednessLong-Term Resilience & Maintained Calm
Long-term users report significantly more resilient skin that reacts less easily to environmental triggers (cold weather, wind, changes in skincare routine). The oat-based formula supports chronic skin conditions over time. Best results achieved when paired with other products from the Calm + Restore line.
~80% would repurchase for long-term useRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Truly fragrance-free, non-irritating formula
- Absorbs in ~15 seconds — fast and lightweight
- Immediate skin-smoothing and calming effect
- Excellent for sensitive, eczema-prone, and rosacea skin
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores
- Clinically and dermatologist tested at scale
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Layers beautifully under makeup and moisturizer
- Oatmeal actives are FDA-recognized and extensively studied
Criticized
- Small 1 fl oz / 30ml bottle can run out faster than expected
- Results are subtle and gradual — not a high-impact active serum
- Contains esters and oat oil — not fully fungal-acne safe
- Silicone base not ideal for those who prefer silicone-free formulas
- No brightening, anti-aging, or exfoliating actives included
- A minority of oily-skin users find it slightly heavy in humid conditions
- No HA or hyaluronic acid for plumping effect
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares the same sensitive-skin-friendly, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic positioning and the glycerin + humectant backbone. CeraVe adds ceramides and hyaluronic acid for plumping but lacks the oat actives and feverfew calming complex. Better for barrier repair with ceramides; slightly inferior for immediate soothing. Fungal acne safe.
A lightweight drugstore serum with hyaluronic acid as the hero. Similar fast-absorption, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free profile. Stronger plumping and hydration effect due to high HA. However, lacks the soothing oat-feverfew complex and is less ideal for very reactive or eczema-prone skin. No oat actives.
A French pharmacy serum specifically designed for ultra-sensitive and allergic skin, with similar lightweight, silky gel texture and a clinically validated hypoallergenic formula. Lacks the oat complex but uses La Roche-Posay's patented prebiotic Aqua Posae Filiformis and neurosensine to calm hypersensitive skin. Stronger clinical backing for allergic sensitivity. More expensive.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The formula uses an effective preservation system (phenoxyethanol, chlorphenesin, ethylhexylglycerin) to remain stable for 12 months post-opening under normal storage conditions.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing in bathrooms with high humidity and temperature fluctuations. Room temperature (59°F–77°F / 15°C–25°C) is ideal. Do not freeze.
Pump-dispenser bottle (updated from original dropper packaging). The pump format reduces air exposure and contamination risk, helping the formula stay stable longer. Pump once before first use to prime the mechanism.
Yes — at 1 fl oz / 30ml, this product is well within the TSA 3-1-1 carry-on liquid limit of 3.4 fl oz / 100ml. The pump bottle is also leak-resistant, making it suitable for carry-on travel without special precautions.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — this serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. It contains none of the ingredients typically flagged for concern during pregnancy: no retinoids (retinol, retinyl palmitate, tretinoin), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical UV filters (such as oxybenzone or avobenzone). The full 19-ingredient formula has been reviewed and all actives — including colloidal oatmeal, feverfew extract, glycerin, and dimethicone — are considered safe for pregnant and nursing individuals. As always, we recommend checking with your OB-GYN or midwife before introducing any new skincare products during pregnancy.
Use with caution if you have active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). This serum contains three ingredients that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast: (1) Isodecyl Neopentanoate — a C10 ester that falls within the carbon chain range Malassezia can metabolize; (2) Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate — a C8 ester; and (3) Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil — which contains oleic and linoleic fatty acids that may support Malassezia growth. If you are actively managing confirmed fungal acne, consider the CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum or the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum instead, both of which are fully fungal-acne safe. If your fungal acne is in remission and you have sensitive skin needs, some users tolerate this serum well — but patch-test first.
Yes, this serum is compatible with most active ingredients. It contains no acids, exfoliants, or actives that would conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHA (glycolic, lactic acid), or BHA (salicylic acid). Here is how to layer it effectively: Apply this serum first (thinnest formula) on clean, dry skin, allow it to absorb for 15–30 seconds, then apply your active serums (vitamin C or AHA/BHA), then moisturizer. When using retinol, you can apply this serum either before retinol as a buffer layer to reduce potential irritation, or on alternate nights as a rest/recovery step. Avoid mixing directly with high-concentration vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) in the same application, as both need dry skin and their combined acidity and formulation chemistry can reduce stability. Use them at separate times (e.g., vitamin C in the morning, this serum at night).
This serum was specifically formulated for sensitive, reactive, dry, and eczema-prone skin — and it excels in those skin types. It is rated Excellent for sensitive skin, dry skin, normal skin, and eczema/rosacea-prone skin. It works well for combination skin and receives a Good rating for oily or acne-prone skin. It is not specifically designed for oily skin concerns (excess sebum, enlarged pores) or for mature skin requiring anti-aging actives. Think of it as a foundational soothing hydration serum — ideal for anyone whose skin barrier needs support, calming, and gentle daily moisture maintenance.
You will likely notice some effect immediately — 92% of clinical testers reported instantly smoother skin after first application. The calming and soothing effects are felt right away, particularly for reactive or inflamed skin. Visible improvements in hydration and redness reduction typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Meaningful barrier strengthening and long-term resilience develop over 3–4 weeks. This is a gentle, gradual-acting formula — not a dramatic, high-potency active serum. Users who expect immediate transformative results may be disappointed; users who prioritize gentle, sustainable skin health will see steady improvement. For best results, use it consistently morning and night and pair it with a moisturizer and SPF.
This serum goes in Step 3 of your routine: after cleansing and optional toning, but before moisturizer and SPF. The standard order is: (1) Cleanser → (2) Toner (optional) → (3) This Serum → (4) Moisturizer → (5) Sunscreen (morning only). Apply the serum to completely dry skin — not damp — for optimal absorption and stability. Pump 3–4 drops into your palm, then gently press and massage onto your face. Wait 15–30 seconds for absorption before proceeding to moisturizer. In the evening, you may apply this serum before or as an alternative to retinol, depending on your skin's tolerance. It should always be layered before heavier creams or oils in a routine.
No — this serum is officially certified as non-comedogenic by Aveeno, supported by independent testing. We rate it 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The primary silicone emollients (dimethicone and dimethiconol) are rated 1/5 individually and are widely regarded as safe for acne-prone skin. Glycerin and colloidal oatmeal are both non-comedogenic (0/5). The oat kernel oil does contain oleic fatty acids which theoretically rank slightly higher, but at the low concentrations used in this formula, pore-clogging is highly unlikely for the vast majority of users. A very small percentage of users with extremely clog-prone skin have reported minor congestion, but this appears to be the exception rather than the rule.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. At the recommended usage of 3–4 pump dispensations per application, twice daily, a 1 fl oz / 30ml bottle typically lasts 4–6 weeks with consistent full-face use. To maximize shelf life, always store the bottle in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and avoid leaving it in a hot bathroom. The pump packaging helps reduce air exposure compared to dropper or open-top bottles, which extends stability. If you notice any change in color, smell, or texture before the 12-month mark, discontinue use. The formula uses phenoxyethanol, chlorphenesin, and ethylhexylglycerin as a preservation system proven effective for this product category.
Verdict: The Aveeno Calm + Restore Triple Oat Serum is one of the most well-validated soothing serums available at the drugstore price point. Its combination of FDA-recognized colloidal oatmeal, calming feverfew, and skin-identical humectants delivers genuine, clinically supported results for sensitive, dry, eczema-prone, and reactive skin. It is pregnancy safe, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and backed by over 70 years of dermatological research. The serum's main limitation is its positioning as a calming hydration base rather than a targeted active treatment — it will not brighten, firm, or exfoliate. It also requires caution for those with active fungal acne due to its oat oil and ester content. For anyone seeking a gentle, reliable, everyday serum to soothe irritation, fortify the moisture barrier, and keep sensitive skin in check — this is an outstanding choice at an accessible price.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isodecyl Neopentanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|