Clarifying Cleanser
Clarifying Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
Murad Clarifying Cleanser is a medicated acne gel cleanser with 1.5% salicylic acid that dissolves excess oil, purifies pores, and prevents breakouts. Featuring dual-action salicylic acid — one form treats immediately, the other continues working hours after rinsing — plus soothing green tea extract and antimicrobial silver citrate for clearer, healthier-looking skin.
Dual-Action Salicylic Acid
Free-form salicylic acid treats immediately while encapsulated form continues releasing medication for hours after rinsing — providing sustained breakout control throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Salicylic Acid
Free-form salicylic acid treats immediately while encapsulated form continues releasing medication for hours after rinsing — providing sustained breakout control throughout the day.
Green Tea Extract (Camellia Oleifera)
Powerful antioxidant that soothes irritation, calms redness, and protects breakout-prone skin from environmental stressors while reducing inflammation.
Silver Citrate Antimicrobial
Antimicrobial agent that helps control acne-causing bacteria on the skin's surface, preventing future blemishes and supporting clearer skin.
Menthol Cooling Effect
Provides an invigorating, refreshing cooling sensation during cleansing that helps constrict pores and leaves skin feeling revitalized and clean.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1.5% salicylic acid (a BHA). While low-concentration topical salicylic acid in a rinse-off product is considered lower risk, most dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy. Consult your physician before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 80, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, and essential oils — all of which can feed malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne.
Contains Parfum plus multiple essential oils (Lemon Peel, Lime, Citronella, Lavender). Potential irritant for very sensitive skin or those with fragrance allergies. Limonene is a known allergen.
Some formulations include MI, a preservative flagged as a strong sensitizer. If you have a known allergy to MI, check the specific batch label before use.
Proven safe for sensitive skin by an independent laboratory. Dermatologist-developed by Dr. Howard Murad, a board-certified dermatologist and pharmacist.
Formulated without parabens, sulfates (SLS & SLES), phthalates, hydroquinone, mineral oil, oxybenzone, coal tar, formaldehyde, and triclosan.
This is a medicated OTC acne treatment with 1.5% salicylic acid as the active ingredient. Use as directed and avoid combining with other strong actives without patch-testing first.
Safe and effective for both adults and teenagers. Start with once-daily use if skin is sensitive and gradually increase to twice daily as tolerated.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 1.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within. In this formula, Murad uses two forms: free salicylic acid for immediate treatment and an encapsulated time-release form that continues working for up to 8 hours after rinsing.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells inside pores, clearing blockages and preventing new comedones from forming.
- Clinical data: BHA at 0.5–2% is the gold standard for OTC acne treatment, FDA-approved for breakout prevention.
- Dual delivery: Encapsulated form provides sustained release, extending treatment time beyond the rinse-off step.
Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract (Green Tea) ~0.5–1%Proven
A potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory botanical extract derived from green tea leaves. Rich in polyphenols (EGCG) that help soothe irritation and calm reddened, breakout-prone skin.
- Antioxidant: EGCG in green tea is one of the most studied polyphenols, shown to neutralize free radicals and reduce UV-induced oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce redness and swelling associated with active acne lesions.
- Sebum regulation: Some studies suggest topical green tea may help reduce excess sebum production in oily skin types.
Silver Citrate <0.5%Promising
An antimicrobial agent that helps control bacteria on the skin's surface. Works by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, helping to prevent future breakouts.
- Broad-spectrum: Effective against a range of bacteria including Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the primary bacterium involved in inflammatory acne.
- Preservative boost: Also serves as a preservative in the formula, keeping the product stable and free from microbial contamination.
Menthol <1%Soothing
A naturally derived cooling agent that provides a refreshing, invigorating sensation during cleansing. Activates cold-sensitive receptors in the skin for an instant cool feeling.
- Sensory benefit: Creates the signature tingling, cooling sensation that signals the cleanser is working.
- Mild analgesic: Can temporarily soothe minor skin discomfort associated with acne.
Methyl Gluceth-20 ~1–3%Hydrating
A corn sugar-derived humectant that provides lightweight moisture without heaviness. Has a smooth, non-tacky skin feel and helps prevent the formula from over-drying skin.
- Humectant: Attracts and binds water to the skin surface, helping maintain hydration even while the BHA is exfoliating.
- Mildness: Widely used in sensitive-skin formulations for its gentle, non-irritating properties.
Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract (Black Cohosh) <0.5%Promising
A botanical extract from black cohosh root with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Traditionally used in dermatology for its skin-soothing benefits.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains triterpene glycosides that may help reduce inflammation in acne-affected skin.
- Hormonal balance: Has been studied for its phytoestrogenic properties, potentially beneficial for hormonal acne.
Citrus Essential Oil Blend <1% totalFragrance
A blend of Lemon Peel Oil, Lime Oil, Citronella Oil, Lavender Hybrid Oil, and Angelica Leaf Oil that gives the cleanser its distinctive herbal-citrus scent. Also includes Limonene (a fragrance component).
- Aromatherapy: Provides a refreshing, spa-like cleansing experience with natural citrus and herbal notes.
- Minor antibacterial: Some citrus oils have mild antimicrobial properties, though their primary role here is sensory.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine & Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate ~5–15%Cleansing
The primary surfactant system responsible for the cleanser's rich lather and cleansing action. Cocamidopropyl Betaine is an amphoteric surfactant that boosts foam while being gentle; Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate provides deep cleansing power.
- Effective cleansing: This combination effectively removes oil, grime, and makeup while maintaining a satisfying lather.
- Sulfate-free alternative: Olefin Sulfonate is not an SLS/SLES sulfate but provides similar cleansing power with a different safety profile.
Encapsulated Corn Starch Complex <2%Delivery System
Zea Mays Starch, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, and Hydrolyzed Corn Starch Octenylsuccinate form the encapsulation system that delivers time-released salicylic acid treatment for hours after rinsing.
- Sustained release: The starch capsules gradually break down, releasing salicylic acid over an extended period for continued pore-clearing action.
- Oil absorption: Corn starch also helps absorb excess sebum on the skin's surface for a matte finish.
Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (Apricot) <0.5%Emollient
A lightweight, nourishing oil rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids. Helps prevent the cleanser from over-stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier during cleansing.
- Barrier support: Provides a thin layer of emollient protection to counterbalance the drying potential of salicylic acid.
- Vitamin E source: Naturally contains tocopherols that provide mild antioxidant benefits.
Butylene Glycol ~1–3%Solvent
A multifunctional ingredient that serves as a solvent for other active ingredients, helps improve product texture, and provides mild humectant properties to maintain skin hydration.
- Penetration enhancer: Helps active ingredients like salicylic acid penetrate more effectively into the skin.
- Hydration: Acts as a lightweight moisturizer that helps prevent the tight, dry feeling after cleansing.
29 ingredients
Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Methyl Gluceth-20, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Butylene Glycol, Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Silver Citrate, Menthol, PEG-150 Distearate, Zea Mays Starch, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch Octenylsuccinate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Polysorbate 80, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Chlorphenesin, Methylisothiazolinone, Limonene, Angelica Archangelica Leaf Oil, Cymbopogon Nardus Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Orange Roughy Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil, Parfum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your AM & PM routine. For best results, pair with the Murad Clarifying Toner and Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15. Can be used as a standalone cleanser or as a second cleanse after an oil-based makeup remover.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Splash your face and neck with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water which can strip natural oils and increase irritation.
Apply & Massage
Squeeze a small amount (dime-sized) onto fingertips. Massage gently over your face and neck in circular motions for 30–60 seconds, allowing the gel to lather.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. The encapsulated salicylic acid continues working even after rinsing.
Follow Up
Apply toner, then moisturizer. In the AM, always finish with SPF 30+. Start with once daily and increase to twice daily as tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You deal with clogged pores, blackheads, or whiteheads
- You want a medicated cleanser with proven active ingredients
- You enjoy a refreshing, cooling cleansing experience
- You need oil control and a matte finish after cleansing
- You are a teenager or adult dealing with persistent acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that flakes easily
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
- You have fungal acne (contains oils, polysorbate, esters)
- You are sensitive to fragrance or essential oils
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
- You have a known allergy to methylisothiazolinone (MI)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cleanser was designed for oily skin. The salicylic acid dissolves excess sebum, the gel texture controls oil, and users consistently report a clean, matte finish without excess greasiness.
Targets oily T-zone congestion effectively while the humectant ingredients help prevent drier areas from feeling stripped. Follow with moisturizer on dry zones.
The primary target audience. Dual-form BHA, silver citrate, and pore-purifying action address multiple acne causes. A long-time bestseller in the acne category.
Clinically tested safe for sensitive skin, but contains menthol, essential oils, and fragrance that may irritate very reactive complexions. Start with once daily and follow with a calming moisturizer.
Not ideal for dry skin. Multiple reviewers report tightness, flaking, and excessive dryness with daily use. If you must use it, limit to once every few days and always pair with a rich moisturizer.
Works well for normal skin experiencing occasional breakouts. May be too strong for daily use if skin is generally clear — consider using 2–3 times per week instead.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Clean, Refreshed Feeling
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed, mattified, and invigorated from the menthol cooling effect. Pores appear visibly cleaner after first use. Some users notice a slight tingling sensation.
95% noticedSkin Adjustment & Initial Purging
Some users may experience initial purging as the BHA pushes existing clogs to the surface. Oil production begins to regulate. Mild redness or dryness is normal during this phase.
60% noticedReduced Breakouts & Clearer Pores
Active breakouts start to diminish. Blackheads and whiteheads become less frequent. Skin texture begins to smooth out. In Murad's clinical study, 98% agreed skin feels calm and 85% reported skin feels soothed and soft after 2 weeks.
80% noticedSignificant Improvement
Consistent users report significantly fewer breakouts, smaller pores, and more balanced oil production. Skin tone appears more even and less congested overall. Best results come with consistent twice-daily use.
70% noticedRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dual-action salicylic acid provides both immediate and sustained treatment
- Rich lather that thoroughly cleanses without needing a large amount
- Refreshing cooling sensation leaves skin feeling invigorated
- Effective at reducing active breakouts within 2–4 weeks
- A little goes a long way — the bottle lasts 2–3 months with daily use
- Clinically tested and dermatologist-developed for acne-prone skin
- Suitable for both teens and adults with oily/combo skin
- Free from parabens, sulfates (SLS/SLES), and phthalates
Criticized
- Can be very drying with twice-daily use, causing flaking and tightness
- Strong medicinal/menthol scent that some compare to a medicated balm
- Expensive for a cleanser at ~$36 for 6.75 oz
- Contains fragrance and essential oils — not suitable for fragrance-free seekers
- Some users report initial purging or worsened breakouts
- Not fungal acne safe due to oils and polysorbate 80
- Contains Methylisothiazolinone (MI), a known sensitizer in some formulations
- Too harsh for very sensitive or dry skin types
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 2% salicylic acid (higher than Murad's 1.5%), plus ceramides and niacinamide to protect the skin barrier. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Lacks the time-release technology and botanical extracts, but offers better value and gentler overall formula.
Contains 0.5% salicylic acid with panthenol (vitamin B5) for soothing. Fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and very gentle. Lower BHA concentration means less potent pore-clearing but also less irritation. Better for sensitive-oily skin types.
Contains 2% salicylic acid with LHA (lipo-hydroxy acid) for micro-exfoliation. French pharmacy formula that is oil-free and fragrance-free. More gentle surfactant system. Lacks Murad's time-release technology and green tea extract but offers excellent value.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed between uses.
Squeeze tube (smaller sizes) or pump bottle (6.75 oz and value size). Pump dispenser prevents contamination and helps control product amount.
The 2 fl oz travel size is TSA-compliant and fits easily in carry-on bags. The full 6.75 oz size exceeds the 3.4 oz / 100ml liquid limit for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains 1.5% salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid. While topical salicylic acid in low concentrations in a rinse-off product is generally considered lower risk than oral or leave-on forms, most dermatologists and ACOG guidelines recommend avoiding BHA-based products during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precautionary measure. The brand does not provide specific pregnancy guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or nursing.
No, this cleanser is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 80 (an ester/emulsifier), Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil (a fatty acid-rich oil), Glyceryl Stearate (an ester), and Orange Roughy Oil. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider fragrance-free, oil-free alternatives like CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser instead.
Since this cleanser already contains 1.5% salicylic acid (BHA), layering additional exfoliating acids or retinol requires caution. If you use a leave-on BHA, AHA, or retinol treatment, introduce them slowly — use the cleanser in the AM and the leave-on active in the PM, or alternate days. Vitamin C serum can generally be used after cleansing in the AM, but monitor for irritation. If you experience excessive dryness, redness, or peeling, reduce the frequency of active products.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It is designed to dissolve excess oil, purify pores, and prevent breakouts. It works well for both teenagers and adults dealing with acne. It is clinically tested safe for sensitive skin, but those with very dry, dehydrated, or reactive skin may find it too stripping. If you have dry skin with occasional breakouts, consider the gentler Murad Clarifying Cream Cleanser (0.5% salicylic acid) instead.
Most users notice an immediate improvement in skin cleanliness and freshness. Visible reduction in breakouts typically begins within 2–4 weeks of consistent use. In Murad's consumer study, 98% agreed their skin felt calm and 85% said skin felt soothed and soft after just 2 weeks. For maximum results, allow 2–3 months of consistent twice-daily use. Some users experience initial purging in the first 1–2 weeks — this is normal and usually subsides.
This cleanser is the first step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. Apply to damp skin, massage for 30–60 seconds, then rinse. Follow with toner, any treatment serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). If you wear heavy makeup, use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water first as a pre-cleanse, then follow with this cleanser as your second cleanse.
We rate this cleanser at a 2 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. While it contains some potentially comedogenic ingredients (Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate), their concentrations are very low and the product is a rinse-off formula, which significantly reduces the risk of pore clogging. The salicylic acid actively works to unclog pores. Most users find this cleanser helps reduce rather than cause comedones. However, individual reactions vary — if you notice increased clogging, discontinue use.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, because this is an OTC drug product, it also has an expiration date printed on the packaging — always check this date. The 6.75 oz pump bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, as a small dime-sized amount is sufficient for each wash. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap/pump closed to maximize shelf life and product efficacy.
Verdict: Murad Clarifying Cleanser is a proven, dermatologist-developed acne cleanser backed by decades of real-world use. Its dual-action salicylic acid delivery system is genuinely innovative, and the formula effectively tackles oily, breakout-prone skin. However, the premium price tag ($36 for 6.75 oz), inclusion of fragrance/essential oils, and potential for over-drying hold it back from a perfect score. If you have oily or combo acne-prone skin and value a medicated, time-release formula from a trusted dermatologist brand, this is one of the most effective OTC acne cleansers available. For those on a budget, sensitive to fragrance, or dealing with fungal acne, excellent alternatives exist at a fraction of the 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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methyl Gluceth-20
Humectant, Moisturising
|
|
|
| 2 |
PPG-26-Buteth-26
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Hair Conditioning
|
|