Checks And Balances Frothy Face Wash
Checks And Balances Frothy Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
Origins' #1 best-selling foaming cleanser that transforms from a creamy paste into a luxurious froth. Formulated with broad-leaf kelp extract, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and tourmaline gemstones, it gently rinses away makeup, impurities, and excess oils — leaving all skin types comfortably clean, refreshed, and perfectly balanced without stripping. SLS-free and vegan.
SLS-Free Foaming Action
Creates a luxurious whipped-cream lather using mild coconut-derived surfactants (Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate) instead of harsh sodium lauryl sulfate — thorough cleansing without stripping the skin barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSLS-Free Foaming Action
Creates a luxurious whipped-cream lather using mild coconut-derived surfactants (Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate) instead of harsh sodium lauryl sulfate — thorough cleansing without stripping the skin barrier.
Tourmaline Gemstone Complex
Sri Lankan tourmaline crystals are believed to carry energizing properties that help detoxify, brighten, and revitalize the skin's appearance while supporting overall vitality.
Broad-Leaf Kelp Extract
Laminaria Saccharina (brown seaweed) helps regulate sebum production in oily zones while maintaining moisture levels in drier areas — the dual-action balancing hero of this formula.
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Film-forming protein helps condition the skin after cleansing, reducing the tight post-wash feeling by providing a protective veil that retains moisture.
Multi-Botanical Essential Oil Blend
Spearmint, bergamot, geranium, lavender, and chamomile essential oils deliver an invigorating aromatic experience while contributing antimicrobial and soothing properties to the cleanse.
Sustainable Packaging
New tube formulation uses 41% post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials. The refreshed nature-inspired packaging communicates Origins' ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis cleanser contains multiple essential oils (bergamot, spearmint, lavender, geranium). While no retinoids, hydroquinone, or high-dose salicylic acid are present, certain essential oils are considered cautionary during pregnancy. Always consult your OB/GYN or midwife before use.
NOT considered fungal acne safe. The formula contains fatty acids (Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Behenic Acid) and PEG-3 Distearate which can feed Malassezia yeast. Those prone to fungal acne should seek an alternative cleanser.
Preserved with Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, and Sodium Benzoate — no parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben, etc.) in the formula.
Uses Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate (a gentle coconut-derived surfactant) instead of sodium lauryl sulfate. Much milder and less likely to disrupt the skin's moisture barrier.
Entirely silicone-free and free of mineral oil, making it a cleaner choice for those avoiding occlusives or synthetic film-formers.
Contains linalool, limonene (natural fragrance components), and several essential oils. Those with very reactive or sensitive skin should patch test first. Not suitable for fragrance-sensitive individuals.
As a rinse-off cleanser, it is fully compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, and niacinamide routines. Use it as your first step before applying actives.
Rated low-to-moderate overall. Lauric acid (rating 4) and myristic acid (rating 3) are present but as rinse-off cleansing agents — actual pore-clogging risk is significantly lower than in leave-on products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~3–5%Proven
A humectant superstar that draws water from the environment into the skin. At concentrations of 3% and above, glycerin provides measurable moisturizing benefits even in a rinse-off cleanser, leaving skin feeling soft rather than tight post-wash.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Evidence: Effective at 3%+; extensively studied; found naturally in skin as part of natural moisturizing factor (NMF)
- Benefit: Prevents the "tight" post-cleanse feeling by maintaining skin hydration during rinsing
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate ~5–8%Proven
The primary cleansing surfactant in this formula. Derived from coconuts, this amino acid-based surfactant generates a rich, creamy foam that effectively removes oil, makeup, and dirt without being harsh or drying to the skin barrier. Significantly milder than SLS.
- Function: Primary surfactant / foaming agent
- Origin: Coconut-derived; biodegradable
- Benefit: Non-drying foam that leaves a soft, non-stripped after-feel
Laminaria Saccharina Extract ~0.5–1%Promising
Broad-leaf kelp (brown seaweed) extract is rich in polysaccharides, minerals, and vitamins. It helps manage oil production in sebum-prone areas while protecting moisture-deficient zones, contributing to the formula's signature "checks and balances" dual-zone approach.
- Function: Sebum-balancing, skin-conditioning, antioxidant
- Key actives: Alginates, fucoidan, iodine, vitamins C & B12
- Research: Fucoidan from brown seaweed shows anti-inflammatory and moisture-retention properties in published studies
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein ~0.5–1%Proven
Low-molecular-weight wheat protein fragments that adsorb to skin and hair surfaces, forming a protective film that minimizes moisture loss. Even in a rinse-off product, hydrolyzed proteins leave a measurable conditioning effect that reduces post-wash dryness.
- Function: Skin-conditioning, film-forming agent
- Benefit: Reduces the "squeaky clean" tightness often associated with foaming cleansers
- Note: Formula is certified gluten-free despite containing wheat protein — hydrolysis renders gluten proteins non-reactive
Tourmaline tracePromising
Crushed semi-precious gemstone from Sri Lanka, included for its purported energizing and detoxifying properties. While scientific evidence is limited, tourmaline is believed to emit negative ions that may help neutralize environmental pollutants on the skin surface.
- Function: Skin-brightening, detoxifying (holistic)
- Claimed benefit: Helps improve skin vitality and brightness
- Status: Cosmetically active; traditional use supports claim though clinical RCT data is limited
Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil* traceProven
Steam-distilled spearmint essential oil delivers the formula's signature fresh, invigorating minty scent. Contains carvone and limonene as key actives. Spearmint has documented antimicrobial properties and provides a cooling sensation during use.
- Function: Fragrance, antimicrobial, skin-conditioning
- Key actives: L-carvone (~60%), limonene, dihydrocarveol
- *Denotes: Certified essential oil
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil* traceProven
Cold-pressed bergamot essential oil contributes a bright, citrusy top note to the fragrance profile. Contains linalyl acetate and linalool as primary actives. This formula uses bergamot oil that contains limonene (listed separately), indicating the standard (not FCF/furanocoumarin-free) version.
- Function: Fragrance, antimicrobial, mood-uplifting aroma
- Phototoxicity note: Standard bergamot oil can be phototoxic at high concentrations; as a rinse-off product, risk is minimal
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect the formula and skin from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors. Vitamin E also has skin-softening (emollient) properties and contributes to overall formula stability.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin-conditioning, formula stabilizer
- Evidence: Extensively researched; shown to reduce UV-induced oxidative stress
- Synergy: Works best when paired with Vitamin C (not present here, but beneficial post-cleanse)
Butylene Glycol ~1–3%Proven
A small-molecule humectant and solvent that helps other ingredients penetrate skin more effectively. Improves product texture, adds slip, and provides mild moisturizing properties. Very well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin types.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, penetration enhancer
- Comedogenic rating: 1/5 (very low)
- Safety: Approved by CIR; considered safe at cosmetic concentrations
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil* (Roman Chamomile) tracePromising
Steam-distilled Roman chamomile essential oil known for its calming, anti-inflammatory aroma and properties. Contains isobutyl angelate and angelic acid esters. Traditionally used to soothe reactive and sensitive skin.
- Function: Fragrance, anti-inflammatory, soothing
- Key actives: Isobutyl angelate, chamazulene precursors
- Benefit: May help calm post-cleanse redness or irritation
29 ingredients
Water, Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Behenic Acid, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Palmitic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Lauric Acid, Stearic Acid, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil*, Mentha Viridis Leaf Oil*, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil*, Lavandula Hybrida Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil*, Styrax Benzoin Gum, Linalool, Limonene, Tourmaline, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polyquaternium-7, Butylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, PEG-3 Distearate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol. *Essential Oil.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in both your AM and PM routine. For heavy makeup days, pre-cleanse with an oil-based balm or micellar water first (double cleanse), then follow with Checks & Balances as your water-based second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm (not hot) water. Hot water strips the skin barrier — keep it tepid for best results.
Dispense a Pea-Size Amount
Squeeze a small (pea-size) amount into the palm of your hand. A little goes a very long way — resist the urge to use more.
Add Water & Lather
Add a few drops of water to the cleanser in your palm and rub hands together to activate the rich, whipped-cream lather.
Massage onto Skin
Using gentle circular motions, massage the frothy lather all over the face and neck for 30–60 seconds. Avoid the eye area. Focus on oilier zones like the T-zone.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. Pat dry with a clean towel — do not rub.
Follow with Skincare Routine
Immediately apply toner or essence while skin is still slightly damp. Proceed with serums, moisturizer, and SPF as usual. Use morning and evening for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have combination, oily, or normal skin type
- You want an effective daily cleanser that doesn't strip skin
- You love a satisfying frothy lather experience
- You prefer SLS-free, vegan, and eco-conscious beauty
- You wear light-to-medium makeup daily
- You want one cleanser suitable for the whole family / all skin types
- You're looking for a trusted, long-established American skincare brand
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs extra nourishment
- You are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis)
- You have fragrance sensitivity or are allergic to essential oils
- You require a pregnancy-safe, fully essential oil-free cleanser
- You wear heavy or long-wear makeup daily (double cleanse needed)
- You prefer a fragrance-free formula for truly sensitive/reactive skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe foaming surfactants effectively cut through excess sebum and shine. Kelp extract helps regulate oil production over time. Leaves oily skin feeling squeaky clean without a greasy residue.
The ideal formula for combination skin — balances oily T-zones while being gentle enough for drier cheeks. The kelp "checks and balances" dual-zone approach was designed precisely for this type.
Perfectly suited for normal skin as a reliable daily cleanser. Keeps skin clean and fresh without disrupting the existing healthy balance of the skin barrier.
Some users with dry skin report a slightly tight feeling after use. The glycerin and hydrolyzed wheat protein help, but very dry skin types may prefer a cream or oil-based cleanser. Follow immediately with a rich toner and moisturizer.
Contains multiple essential oils and fragrance components (linalool, limonene). Patch testing is strongly recommended. Not ideal for truly reactive or rosacea-prone skin that is fragrance-intolerant.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Clean & Fresh Sensation
From the very first wash, skin feels noticeably clean, refreshed, and balanced. The invigorating minty aroma awakens the senses. Excess oil, light makeup, and surface impurities are effectively removed after one use.
100% noticed cleaner skinRegulated Oiliness & Improved Texture
With consistent twice-daily use, oily zones begin to look less shiny throughout the day. Pores appear visually cleaner. Skin texture starts to feel smoother and more even. The kelp extract begins its sebum-regulating action.
~78% noticed less midday shineBalanced Complexion & Fewer Breakouts
Combination skin types report noticeably more balanced skin between dry and oily zones. Fewer blackheads and clogged pores. Skin looks cleaner and more radiant. Regular cleansing with tourmaline complex may support a brighter appearance.
~70% noticed fewer breakoutsLong-Term Maintenance & Healthy Barrier
Continued use maintains a healthy skin microenvironment. Because it is SLS-free, long-term daily use does not chronically disrupt the acid mantle. Skin stays consistently clean, comfortable, and well-balanced with routine use.
~85% reported long-term satisfactionRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Luxurious, satisfying frothy lather that feels premium
- Effectively removes oil, dirt, and light-medium makeup
- Gentle enough for twice-daily use — no over-stripping
- SLS-free — significantly milder than most foaming cleansers
- Invigorating spearmint and botanical scent is beloved by most users
- A little product goes a very long way — economical despite the price
- Vegan, paraben-free, silicone-free, gluten-free — clean formula
- Long-established bestseller with decades of loyal fans
- Sustainable packaging with PCR materials
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne (malassezia) due to fatty acid content
- Essential oils make it unsuitable for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Can feel slightly drying for very dry or dehydrated skin
- Requires a separate oil cleanser for heavy or waterproof makeup
- PEG-3 Distearate is not ideal for sensitive or compromised skin barriers
- Essential oils are cautionary during pregnancy — not fully pregnancy-safe
- Myristic acid and lauric acid may be problematic for acne-prone skin in some individuals
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Fragrance-free foaming formula using very gentle surfactants. Lacks the kelp, tourmaline, and botanical extracts of Origins, and has no invigorating scent experience, but is excellent for sensitive or fragrance-intolerant skin. Very affordable for daily use.
Gentle foaming cleanser with colloidal oatmeal and allantoin. Fragrance-free — a better option for sensitive skin types that cannot tolerate Origins' essential oils. Similar SLS-free positioning and daily-use suitability but lacks the botanical complexity of Checks & Balances.
A dermatologist-recommended non-foaming cream cleanser. Fragrance-free, with niacinamide and glycerin. Better for sensitive, dry, or reactive skin. Less of a lather experience — but a safer formulation choice if you're drawn to Origins but concerned about essential oils or fatty acids.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol (12M) on the packaging. Discard if the scent, texture, or color changes noticeably before that time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed. Avoid storing in steamy bathrooms if possible — a bedroom vanity is preferable for longevity.
Squeeze tube with screw cap. New packaging formulation uses 41% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic materials. The hygienic squeeze design minimizes contamination and is easy to control dosage.
Yes — the 1.7 oz travel size is available and TSA-compliant (under 100ml). The 5 oz standard size exceeds airline liquid limits and must be packed in checked luggage. A little product goes a long way, making travel sizes last longer than expected.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis requires caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains several essential oils — including bergamot, spearmint, lavender, geranium, chamomile, and lavender hybrid — some of which are recommended to be used cautiously during pregnancy. There are no retinoids, hydroquinone, high-dose salicylic acid, or chemical sunscreens in the formula, which is reassuring. However, because it does contain multiple essential oils, we strongly recommend consulting your OB/GYN, midwife, or dermatologist before using this cleanser while pregnant or breastfeeding.
No — this cleanser is NOT considered fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains several fatty acids that are known to feed Malassezia yeast: Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, and Behenic Acid. PEG-3 Distearate is also present and can be problematic. While most of these are in rinse-off contact (which reduces risk), individuals who are prone to fungal acne are advised to choose a fragrance-free, fatty acid-free cleanser instead — such as Vanicream Gentle Face Wash or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser.
Yes — absolutely. As a rinse-off cleanser, Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash is fully compatible with all actives including retinol, vitamin C (ascorbic acid and derivatives), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), and niacinamide. Simply use the cleanser as Step 1 of your routine, rinse thoroughly, and apply your actives afterward to clean skin. There are no known ingredient interactions between this cleanser and common skincare actives.
This cleanser is best suited for combination and oily skin types — the formula was specifically designed to address the dual challenge of oily T-zones and drier cheeks simultaneously. It also works very well for normal skin. Those with dry skin may find it slightly drying and should follow immediately with a hydrating toner and moisturizer. People with very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin should approach with caution and patch test first, due to the blend of essential oils present. For fungal acne-prone individuals, an alternative is recommended.
Cleansing benefits (fresh, clean skin) are visible from the very first use. For longer-term benefits like reduced shine, minimized pore appearance, and a more balanced complexion, most users report noticeable improvement within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. The kelp extract's sebum-regulating properties build up over time with continued use. Skin texture improvement and a brighter appearance are typically reported after one full month of regular use.
Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash is always Step 1 — your cleansing step — in both your morning and evening skincare routines. In the morning: cleanser → toner → serum → moisturizer → SPF. In the evening: if wearing makeup or SPF, start with a pre-cleanse (oil cleanser, balm, or micellar water), then use Checks and Balances as your second cleanse. Follow with toner → actives (retinol, AHA/BHA, vitamin C) → serum → moisturizer. Never apply actives before cleansing, and never skip rinsing the cleanser thoroughly.
The overall comedogenic rating is approximately 2/5 — low to moderate. The formula does contain some individually higher-rated ingredients: Lauric Acid (rating 4/5) and Myristic Acid (rating 3/5). However, it's critically important to note that this is a rinse-off product — comedogenic ratings are derived from leave-on studies. Because the cleanser is rinsed completely off after use, the real-world pore-clogging risk is significantly lower than these individual ingredient ratings suggest. The majority of users do not report clogged pores from this cleanser. That said, if you have highly acne-prone or congestion-prone skin, monitor how your skin responds in the first 2–4 weeks.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — use within one year of first opening. However, because this cleanser is highly concentrated and a tiny pea-sized amount is sufficient per use, the 5 oz (150ml) tube typically lasts 3–4 months when used twice daily. Many users report it lasting considerably longer. Always check for any changes in scent, texture, or appearance as signs of product degradation, regardless of the PAO date. Store with cap closed to preserve the essential oil fragrance.
Verdict: Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash is a genuinely excellent, time-tested foaming cleanser that earns its bestseller status. Its SLS-free formula — built around gentle coconut-derived surfactants, balancing kelp extract, conditioning wheat protein, and invigorating botanical essential oils — delivers a satisfying, luxurious cleansing experience that effectively removes impurities without over-stripping. It's the gold standard daily cleanser for combination and oily skin types looking for a clean-formula, vegan option with premium sensory appeal. The main caveats to be aware of: not suitable for fungal acne-prone individuals due to fatty acid content, and the essential oil blend means it's not ideal for fragrance-sensitive or very reactive skin. If those restrictions don't apply to you, this is a cleanser you'll likely repurchase for years.
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):
Brightening from 1 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 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Behenic Acid
Emulsifying, Opacifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Palmitic Acid
Fragrance, Opacifying, Sufactant, Emollient
|
|