Cica Clear Cleansing Oil
Cica Clear Cleansing Oil
Product Description
Product overview
By COSRX — A plant-based, watery-lightweight cleansing oil powered by the exclusive CICA-7 Complex and 11 plant-derived oils. Melts away long-wear makeup, SPF, and environmental pollutants while actively soothing and strengthening a compromised skin barrier — all without leaving a greasy residue.
CICA-7 Complex
Proprietary blend of 7 centella-derived actives (Centella Asiatica Extract, Leaf Extract, Root Extract, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid) that repairs, soothes, and strengthens a compromised skin barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCICA-7 Complex
Proprietary blend of 7 centella-derived actives (Centella Asiatica Extract, Leaf Extract, Root Extract, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid) that repairs, soothes, and strengthens a compromised skin barrier.
Self-Emulsifying Formula
Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate acts as a self-emulsifying surfactant — with a small amount of water the oil turns milky white, lifting impurities for a thorough yet non-stripping rinse.
Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract
Maritime pine bark (Pycnogenol source) is a clinically studied potent antioxidant that combats free radicals, reduces redness, and supports skin recovery from environmental stressors.
11 Plant-Derived Oils
A curated blend of Jojoba, Sunflower, Evening Primrose, Avocado, Sweet Almond, Oat, Olive, and Soybean oils delivers deep emollient nourishment without clogging pores during cleansing.
Removes 99% of Pollutants
Clinically tested to remove 99% of fine dust and environmental pollutants, including long-wear makeup and SPF, in just one cleansing step — ideal as the first step in a double-cleanse routine.
Sensitivity-Tested
Completed dermatologist skin sensitivity testing; formulated with EWG-verified components. Hypoallergenic, paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, and cruelty-free.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or restricted chemical sunscreen filters. The formula is composed of plant oils and centella extracts considered safe during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal guidance.
Contains multiple fatty acid-rich oils (Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Glycine Soja Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil) that can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended if you have active fungal acne.
Contains Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, and Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil. These contain limonene, linalool, and furanocoumarins — known skin sensitizers and potential photosensitizers. Very sensitive skin should patch test first.
As a rinse-off first-cleanse step, this oil is compatible with all active ingredients in your routine. It is used before water-based cleansing and leaves no residue that could interfere with subsequent actives like retinol, AHAs, or BHAs.
Most carrier oils rate 0–2 on the comedogenic scale. Evening Primrose Oil scores up to 3 and Olive Oil up to 2. As a wash-off cleanser, residual pore-clogging risk is low for most skin types, but those with highly congestion-prone skin should monitor usage.
No direct pH or oxidation conflicts with Vitamin C serums. Apply Vitamin C after cleansing and toning. The antioxidant Tocopherol (Vitamin E) in this formula actually complements Vitamin C's stability when layered.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCICA-7 Complex (Centella Asiatica Extract, Leaf Extract, Root Extract + Centellosides) Last 8 of 28Proven
COSRX's exclusive CICA-7 Complex comprises three forms of Centella Asiatica extract plus four isolated bioactive triterpenoids: Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, and Madecassic Acid. These centellosides are the most research-backed actives in Centella for skin repair. They stimulate collagen synthesis, promote hyaluronic acid production in the dermis (via GAG stimulation), reduce inflammation, and accelerate wound healing — making this one of the most comprehensive centella delivery systems available in K-Beauty.
- Mechanism: Centellosides activate fibroblast proliferation and upregulate collagen I and III synthesis
- Anti-inflammatory: Asiaticoside inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α)
- Barrier repair: Madecassoside shown to restore skin barrier function in irritated skin (peer-reviewed, 2018)
- Hydration: Stimulates glycosaminoglycan (HA) production validated in a 25-participant, 4-week clinical study
Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract (Pycnogenol) Position 24/28Proven
Maritime pine bark extract, the source of the trademarked Pycnogenol, is one of the most extensively studied plant antioxidants. It contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) that neutralize free radicals, reduce UV-induced oxidative stress, and support skin recovery. Its antioxidant potency is estimated at 50× that of Vitamin E and 20× that of Vitamin C in certain assays.
- Antioxidant activity: OPCs scavenge ROS and chelate metal ions that catalyze oxidative damage
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits NF-κB pathway, reducing skin redness and inflammatory cascades
- Collagen protection: Inhibits collagenase and elastase enzymes that degrade structural proteins
Ethylhexyl Palmitate #1 IngredientEmollient Base
The primary emollient and texture agent in this formula, Ethylhexyl Palmitate is a lightweight ester derived from 2-ethylhexyl alcohol and palmitic acid. It gives the oil its silky, non-greasy skin feel and improves spreadability. As the first ingredient by weight, it forms the majority of this formula.
- Function: Emollient, skin-conditioning agent, solvent
- Texture: Creates the characteristic watery-light feel vs heavier cleansing oils
- Comedogenicity: Rated 2/5 — low-moderate; rinsed off so real-world risk is minimal
Multi-Oil Blend (Soybean, Jojoba, Sunflower, Oat, Olive, Evening Primrose, Avocado, Sweet Almond) Positions 4–18Nourishing
Eight carefully selected plant oils provide a spectrum of fatty acids — barrier-repairing linoleic acid (from Soybean, Sunflower, Evening Primrose), nourishing oleic acid (Avocado, Olive, Sweet Almond), anti-inflammatory GLA (Evening Primrose), and wax-ester mimicry (Jojoba). Together they deliver rich emolliency during the massage phase while the formula ultimately rinses clean.
- Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis): Technically a wax ester — mimics human sebum, uniquely stable, non-oxidizing
- Evening Primrose (Oenothera Biennis): Rich in GLA (7–12%); clinically shown to improve atopic dermatitis and skin hydration
- Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus): High linoleic acid (50–74%), comedogenicity 0 — gentle even for acne-prone skin
- Avocado (Persea Gratissima): Rich in oleic acid (70%); promotes structural skin changes and cell regeneration
Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate #2 IngredientKey Functional
The self-emulsifying surfactant that makes this cleansing oil functional. A tetraester of oleic acid and a polyethylene glycol ether of sorbitol, it is water-loving (hydrophilic) and allows the oil to mix with water, turning milky white during rinse-off to carry away dissolved makeup, sebum, and pollutants without the need for scrubbing or a separate micellar step.
- HLB value: Balanced to create stable oil-in-water emulsification on contact with water
- Clinical: Pumpkin oil emulsions using Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate showed no irritation in skin tolerance studies
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Position 10/28Proven
Alpha-tocopherol is a fat-soluble antioxidant that both protects the formula's oils from oxidative rancidity and delivers direct skin benefits. It neutralizes free radicals generated by UV and environmental pollution, helps reinforce the skin's lipid barrier, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties. Synergizes strongly with Vitamin C.
- Antioxidant: Terminates lipid peroxidation chain reactions in cell membranes
- Formula stability: Prevents rancidity in multi-oil formulas, extending shelf life
- Barrier: Incorporates into stratum corneum lipids to reduce TEWL
28 ingredients
Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Triethylhexanoin, Glycine Soja Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Oenothera Biennis Oil, Persea Gratissima Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis isStep 1 of the double-cleanse method — apply to dry skin, emulsify with water, rinse, then follow with a water-based cleanser. Can be used in PM routine only or both AM/PM depending on your skin's needs.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with Dry Hands & Dry Face
Do not wet your face or hands before applying. Oil and water do not mix at this stage — applying to dry skin maximises the oil's ability to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum by like-dissolves-like chemistry.
Pump & Massage (60–90 Seconds)
Dispense 2–3 pumps into your palm. Gently massage onto dry face in circular motions for 60–90 seconds. Focus on areas with heavy makeup, sunscreen, or congested pores. The oil will dissolve impurities and feel slick — this is normal.
Add Water to Emulsify
Wet your fingertips and continue massaging for an additional 30 seconds. The oil will turn milky-white as Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate emulsifies — this is the sign that oils, makeup, and pollutants are being lifted from the skin surface.
Rinse Thoroughly with Lukewarm Water
Rinse until all milky emulsion is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel. For a complete double-cleanse, follow immediately with a gentle water-based foam or gel cleanser to remove any remaining residue.
Continue Your Routine
Proceed with toner, serum, and moisturizer as normal. Because this is a rinse-off product, all actives applied after (retinol, AHA, BHA, Vitamin C) will work at full efficacy on a clean canvas.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You wear makeup, SPF, or long-wear products daily
- You practice double cleansing (K-Beauty method)
- You have sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone skin
- You love Centella Asiatica / Cica ingredients
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy oil cleanser
- You prefer fragrant citrus-scented skincare
- You have normal, combination, dry, or oily skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You are highly sensitive to citrus or bergamot fragrance
- You prefer completely fragrance-free formulas
- You have a soy or nut oil allergy (contains soybean, almond, avocado oils)
- You want a heavy, cushioning cleansing balm texture
- You only do a single-step cleanse with no follow-up cleanser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWatery-light texture emulsifies completely and rinses clean without adding shine or heaviness. The self-emulsifying formula effectively removes excess sebum and unclogs pores, making it ideal for oily skin that still needs a non-stripping cleanse.
The emollient oil blend (avocado, sweet almond, evening primrose) delivers a comfortable, non-stripping cleanse that does not disrupt the lipid barrier. Dry skin users appreciate the nourished feel during the massage phase. Follow with a hydrating toner and moisturizer for best results.
Handles oily T-zones and drier cheek areas equally well. The lightweight formula balances sebum removal in congested zones without over-drying the drier facial regions. One of the best cleansing oil options for combination skin types.
Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic. The CICA-7 Complex actively calms irritation during use. Caution: contains Citrus Lime, Lemon Peel, and Bergamot essential oils, which may sensitize very reactive skin. Patch test recommended for fragrance-sensitive individuals.
Effective at clearing pore-clogging sebum plugs (users report blackhead removal). The centella complex provides anti-inflammatory support for blemish-prone skin. Not fungal-acne safe — if malassezia is suspected, choose a FA-safe alternative. For regular bacterial acne, most users tolerate well.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Makeup & SPF Fully Removed
Even long-wear foundation, BB cream, and mineral SPF dissolve on first contact. The milky emulsification signals that the formula has broken down impurities from the skin surface. Skin feels clean yet not tight or stripped after rinsing.
97% noticed immediate makeup removalCleaner Pores & Reduced Congestion
With consistent daily use, users report the oil massage phase visibly draws out sebum plugs and blackheads. Pores appear less clogged. Skin texture begins to feel smoother as the cumulative cleansing effect removes accumulated dead skin cell buildup.
78% noticed cleaner-looking poresReduced Redness & Improved Skin Tone
The CICA-7 Complex and centella centellosides begin to show their anti-inflammatory benefits. Users with perioral dermatitis, rosacea-adjacent redness, and post-breakout hyperpigmentation report visible calming of the skin. Some users note their complexion appears brighter after consistent use.
65% reported reduced redness after 4 weeksStrengthened Skin Barrier
Long-term use of the centella actives (Madecassoside, Asiaticoside) supports collagen synthesis and barrier restoration. Skin becomes more resilient to environmental stressors, recovers faster from irritation, and shows improved overall hydration levels — especially when paired with a complete K-Beauty routine.
72% reported improved skin resilienceRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Watery, lightweight texture — no greasy residue after rinsing
- Excellent makeup and SPF removal — dissolves long-wear products
- Self-emulsifies beautifully — turns milky for easy rinsing
- Generous 200ml size at an accessible price point
- CICA-7 Complex provides active soothing during cleanse
- Effective at removing sebum plugs and preventing blackheads
- Pump packaging is hygienic and portion-controlled
- Dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, paraben-free
- Loved by users with perioral dermatitis and sensitive skin
- Pleasant fresh citrus scent (for those who enjoy fragrance)
Criticized
- Contains 3 citrus essential oils — not ideal for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe due to fatty acid content
- Pump can be stiff and dispense too much product at once
- Cica concentrations may be too low for a genuine leave-on treatment effect
- Thinner than traditional cleansing oils — some find it less slip-providing during massage
- Not fully effective on waterproof mascara in a single pass
- No travel/mini size option available for first-time users
- Bergamot oil may cause phototoxicity if formula is not fully rinsed
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A cult K-Beauty classic, this balm-to-oil transformer also uses a self-emulsifying formula to melt away makeup. Sherbet texture is richer than COSRX's watery version. Fragrance-free option (Sensitive) available. Lacks CICA-7 complex but equally effective at cleansing. Slightly more cushioning massage experience.
The Japanese gold-standard cleansing oil. Olive oil-based with a simple formula and exceptional makeup removal. Fragrance-free, no essential oils — better for very fragrance-sensitive skin. No centella actives. The COSRX is lighter and adds soothing CICA benefits; DHC is more reliable for sensitive skin with fragrance concerns.
An affordable K-Beauty cleansing balm with shea butter and portulaca oleracea (similar soothing profile to centella). Balm format is richer than COSRX's watery oil. Good makeup removal, pleasant mild scent. No dedicated CICA-7 complex but a strong budget dupe for the cleansing function at a lower price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The formula contains Tocopherol (Vitamin E) as a natural antioxidant to extend stability of the oil blend, along with Caprylyl Glycol and Ethylhexylglycerin as preservative boosters.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in a steamy bathroom if possible, as repeated temperature fluctuations can degrade the essential oils in the formula. Ideal storage temperature: 15–25°C (59–77°F).
Comes in a 200ml soft-plastic pump bottle. The pump mechanism controls dispensing (2–3 pumps per use) and helps keep the formula hygienic by limiting air exposure. The bottle is semi-opaque which provides some light protection to the oils.
The 200ml bottle exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit for air travel. Transfer a portion into a travel-sized bottle (<100ml) for flights, or pack in checked luggage. The pump packaging is not ideal for travel-size decants — use a disc-cap or flip-top bottle instead.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleansing oil is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids (retinol, retinal, tretinoin), high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical UV filters (oxybenzone, avobenzone), or other commonly restricted actives. The formula is composed primarily of plant-derived oils, centella extracts, and centella actives. The citrus essential oils (lime, lemon peel, bergamot) are present in low concentrations as a rinse-off product. Always consult your OB/GYN or midwife for personalized advice before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. It contains multiple fatty acid-rich oils that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, and Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil. If you have active fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative such as the Squalane Cleansing Oil by The Inkey List or DHC Deep Cleansing Oil (check full ingredient list). While this is a rinse-off product and residue left on skin is minimal, those with active malassezia should avoid it.
Yes, absolutely. This is a rinse-off first-cleanse product, meaning it is completely washed off before any other skincare is applied. It does not interfere with or deactivate active ingredients like retinol, Vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), or BHAs (salicylic acid). In fact, it provides a clean, conditioned skin surface that helps actives applied afterward penetrate more effectively. Simply complete your double cleanse (cleansing oil then water-based cleanser), then apply your actives in their normal routine order.
This cleansing oil is best suited for normal, combination, oily, and sensitive skin types. Its watery-lightweight texture makes it especially popular with oily and combination skin users who find traditional cleansing oils too heavy or greasy. Dry skin users can also benefit but may prefer a richer follow-up moisturizer. Those with active fungal acne should avoid it. Fragrance-sensitive individuals should patch test first due to the citrus essential oil content. It is not recommended for those with soy, tree nut (almond, avocado), or oat allergies.
Results vary by concern. Makeup and SPF removal are immediate from the very first use. Reduction in congestion and cleaner-looking pores is typically noticeable within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. Skin calming and redness reduction from the CICA-7 Complex becomes more apparent at weeks 3–4. Longer-term barrier strengthening and improved skin resilience develops over 2–3 months of continuous use. Remember that as a rinse-off product, the centella actives provide more of a supportive role than a targeted treatment — pair with a leave-on centella serum or moisturizer for more pronounced cica benefits.
This cleansing oil is Step 1 in a double-cleanse routine, used at the very beginning of your PM routine (and optionally in the AM if you feel you need it). Apply 2–3 pumps to dry hands and dry face, massage for 60–90 seconds, add water to emulsify, then rinse. Follow immediately with a water-based cleanser (foam, gel, or micellar water) as Step 2. After both cleansing steps are complete, proceed with toner, essence, serum, treatment, eye cream, moisturizer, and (in AM) sunscreen. It is not a leave-on product and should always be rinsed off completely.
The formula has an overall comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5 (low-moderate), driven primarily by Ethylhexyl Palmitate (rating 2), Olea Europaea Fruit Oil / Olive Oil (rating 2), and Oenothera Biennis / Evening Primrose Oil (rating up to 3). However, because this is a rinse-off cleanser that is thoroughly washed from the skin, the real-world risk of pore-clogging is significantly lower than for leave-on products at the same ratings. Most users, including those with acne-prone skin, tolerate it well without breakouts. If you are experiencing breakouts, ensure you are double-cleansing (following up with a water-based cleanser) to remove all residue.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 12 months. At 2–3 pumps per use, once daily, a 200ml bottle typically lasts 4–6 months depending on how much product is dispensed per use. The formula is stabilized with Tocopherol (Vitamin E) as an antioxidant, along with Caprylyl Glycol and Ethylhexylglycerin as antimicrobial boosters. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Discard if you notice any change in color, texture, or scent before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The COSRX Pure Fit Cica Clear Cleansing Oil is a standout K-Beauty first-cleanse solution that earns its place in sensitive and acne-prone skin routines. Its watery-lightweight formula — powered by the CICA-7 Complex and Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract — delivers effective makeup and SPF removal while actively soothing the skin barrier during the cleansing process. The generous 200ml size offers excellent value, and the self-emulsifying formula rinses exceptionally clean without a greasy residue. The main caveats are the presence of three fragrant citrus essential oils (a caution for very sensitive skin) and its lack of fungal acne safety. But for those who tolerate fragrance and want a cica-forward cleansing oil that goes beyond simply cleaning the face, this is one of the best options in its price range.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 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 |
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Triethylhexanoin
Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Emollient, Masking, Refatting, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Glycine Soja Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|