Clarifying Exfoliant 2% Salicylic Acid
Clarifying Exfoliant 2% Salicylic Acid
Product Description
Product overview
A super-lightweight, leave-on BHA liquid exfoliant powered by the maximum OTC concentration of 2% Salicylic Acid. This clear, alcohol-free solution penetrates deep into pores to dissolve dead skin, excess oil, and debris — clearing existing breakouts and preventing new ones. Enriched with Blue Algae (Spirulina) and antioxidants to calm redness, it delivers professional-grade exfoliation in a gentle, pH-balanced formula safe for daily use on acne-prone skin.
Maximum OTC BHA Strength
2% Salicylic Acid is the highest concentration available without a prescription in the US, delivering maximum pore-clearing efficacy recognized by the FDA as effective for acne treatment.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMaximum OTC BHA Strength
2% Salicylic Acid is the highest concentration available without a prescription in the US, delivering maximum pore-clearing efficacy recognized by the FDA as effective for acne treatment.
Deep Pore Penetration
As an oil-soluble BHA, salicylic acid can travel through sebum directly into clogged pores — dissolving the mix of dead cells and oil that causes blackheads, whiteheads, and acne papules.
Blue Algae Soothing Complex
Spirulina Platensis (Blue Algae) Extract is rich in phycocyanin, a potent antioxidant that helps visibly calm redness and irritation often associated with active breakouts.
Hydrating & Non-Stripping
Unlike alcohol-based toners, this formula uses Betaine, Glycerin, and Propanediol — a trio of humectants that draw moisture into skin and preserve the integrity of the skin barrier.
pH-Balanced Formula
Salicylic acid requires a low pH (around 3–4) to be effective. This formula is pH-balanced to maximize BHA exfoliation while remaining gentle enough for daily use.
Dermatologist Recommended
From the brand behind the #1 dermatologist-recommended benzoyl peroxide acne wash, PanOxyl is trusted by skin care professionals for its clinically proven, science-backed formulations.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% Salicylic Acid, which is classified as FDA Category C. While low-concentration topical BHA is generally considered lower risk than oral salicylates, most dermatologists and OB/GYNs recommend avoiding or minimizing use during pregnancy and breastfeeding — especially over large body surface areas. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.
This formula contains no fermented ingredients, no fatty acids, no problematic esters, and no polysorbates that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. It is fully safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Contains no oils, no silicones, and no known pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight, water-based formula is unlikely to cause clogged pores or new breakouts.
Does not contain denatured alcohol (SD Alcohol, Ethanol) or isopropyl alcohol, which can disrupt the skin barrier and cause over-drying. Safe for daily use without the harsh stripping effect of alcohol-based toners.
Free from added fragrances, perfumes, and colorants — reducing the risk of contact dermatitis and irritation in fragrance-sensitive individuals.
While the formula is gentle and alcohol-free, 2% Salicylic Acid is still a potent exfoliating acid. Those with compromised skin barriers or very reactive skin should start with every-other-day use and patch test first. A mild tingling sensation during initial use is normal.
BHA exfoliants increase skin cell turnover, which can heighten sun sensitivity. Apply SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning when using this product — even on cloudy days.
As an FDA-regulated OTC acne medication, PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant qualifies for purchase with Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
The star active ingredient and the reason this product works. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate through the oily environment inside pores. Once inside, it exfoliates the pore lining, dissolves the keratinous plug, and reduces sebum production. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties structurally similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), helping to calm active, inflamed pimples.
- Mechanism: Disrupts desmosomal bonds between corneocytes, accelerating dead skin cell shedding both on the surface and within the pore canal.
- Concentration: 2% is the maximum concentration permitted for OTC acne treatment by the US FDA (21 CFR 333.310).
- pH Dependency: Most effective at pH 3–4; this product's buffered formula maintains the correct pH for optimal BHA activity.
- Evidence: Multiple randomized controlled trials confirm salicylic acid significantly reduces inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions vs. placebo.
Betaine HumectantProven
Derived from sugar beet (Beta vulgaris), Betaine is a natural osmolyte — a molecule that helps regulate cell water balance and protects proteins from denaturation caused by stress. As a humectant, it draws moisture to the skin and helps prevent the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) that can occur with acid exfoliation.
- Function: Osmolyte and humectant; helps maintain skin hydration during exfoliation cycles.
- Skin Protection: Osmoprotective properties help stabilize skin proteins and improve barrier resilience.
- Sensory: Contributes a smooth, slip-like texture to the watery formula.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract SoothingProven
Chamomile extract is one of the most well-researched botanical anti-inflammatory agents in dermatology. It contains bisabolol, apigenin, and chamazulene — compounds shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce skin redness. In this formula, it works synergistically with Blue Algae to calm the reactive response that acne-prone skin can experience post-exfoliation.
- Active Compounds: α-Bisabolol, apigenin, luteolin, and chamazulene provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Inhibits cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase pathways, reducing inflammation at the molecular level.
- Skin Tolerance: Well-documented in studies for improving skin tolerance to topical actives.
Glycerin HumectantProven
Glycerin is one of the most scientifically validated skin-identical humectants in cosmetic science. It is naturally present in the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and has a small molecular weight allowing it to penetrate into deeper epidermal layers where it attracts and retains water molecules.
- Hydration: A 2016 study found glycerin superior to AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant at equivalent concentrations.
- Barrier Support: Facilitates aquaporin-mediated water transport, reinforcing the skin's moisture barrier.
- Antimicrobial: Demonstrated mild antimicrobial and antiviral properties, potentially supportive for acne-prone skin.
Spirulina Platensis (Blue Algae) Extract AntioxidantPromising
Blue-green algae (Spirulina) is exceptionally rich in phycocyanin, a biliprotein pigment with demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps neutralize free radicals generated by environmental stressors and UV exposure that can worsen acne-related inflammation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Phycocyanin: The primary active compound; has been shown in vitro to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) effectively.
- Anti-Redness: Studies indicate reduction in pro-inflammatory markers including TNF-α and IL-6.
- Antioxidant: Rich in vitamins B12, E, and beta-carotene, adding additional antioxidant support.
Hydroxyacetophenone MultifunctionalPromising
A multifunctional ingredient that serves as a preservative booster, antioxidant, and soothing agent. It enhances the efficacy of other preservatives in the formula (such as Phenoxyethanol and Sodium Benzoate) while contributing its own mild anti-inflammatory activity — helping keep the formula stable and skin calm.
- Function: Preservative booster, antioxidant, and mild anti-irritant.
- Safety Profile: Well-tolerated; considered safe for use in leave-on and rinse-off cosmetics.
15 ingredients · Active: Salicylic Acid 2%
Salicylic Acid (2%) · Water (Aqua) · Betaine · Butylene Glycol · Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract · Glycerin · Hydroxyacetophenone · Pentylene Glycol · Phenoxyethanol · Potassium Sorbate · Propanediol · Sodium Benzoate · Sodium Citrate Dihydrate · Sorbic Acid · Spirulina Platensis (Blue Algae) Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on dry or slightly damp skin using a cotton pad. Always follow with moisturizer to prevent over-drying, and finish with SPF 30+ in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well
Shake the bottle before each use to ensure the active ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the liquid formula.
Cleanse & Pat Dry
Thoroughly cleanse your skin first. Pat dry — the formula works best on clean, dry skin to maximize penetration and minimize dilution.
Apply with Cotton Pad
Saturate a cotton pad with the exfoliant and sweep it gently over the entire affected area — face, chest, or back. Avoid the eye area and lips.
Start Slowly
Begin with once daily. If skin tolerates well after 1–2 weeks, gradually increase to 2–3 times per day if needed, or as directed by your dermatologist.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to replenish hydration. This is critical when using BHA exfoliants daily to prevent skin barrier disruption.
Apply Sunscreen in the Morning
Use SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning. Salicylic acid increases skin cell turnover, making skin more vulnerable to UV damage and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or comedonal acne
- You have oily or combination acne-prone skin
- You want a budget-friendly alternative to Paula's Choice BHA
- You're looking for a daily leave-on exfoliant that won't strip skin
- You deal with enlarged pores or sebaceous filaments
- You want a fragrance-free, alcohol-free BHA treatment
- Your skin is fungal-acne prone or Malassezia-sensitive
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- Your skin barrier is severely compromised or eczema-prone
- You have extremely sensitive or rosacea-type skin
- You are currently using a high-strength prescription retinoid (may over-exfoliate)
- You prefer a scrub-type or physical exfoliant
- You need anti-aging exfoliation (consider AHA glycolic or lactic acid instead)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin. The BHA dissolves excess sebum, unclogs pores, and leaves a mattifying finish without adding any greasiness. This is the #1 recommended skin type for this formula.
Designed specifically for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and powered by the maximum OTC salicylic acid concentration for active breakout clearing and prevention.
Works well across oilier T-zones while being gentle enough for drier cheek areas. The humectant base helps maintain hydration balance across different facial zones.
The alcohol-free, fragrance-free formula reduces irritant risk, but 2% SA is still a potent active. Start with 2–3x per week, patch test first, and always follow with a moisturizer. May cause mild tingling initially.
Usable but requires extra hydration support. Always pair with a rich moisturizer and limit use to every other day. Those with very dry or dehydrated skin may experience tightness or flaking if used too frequently.
Suitable for maintenance exfoliation 2–3 times per week. Helps keep pores clear and skin texture smooth. Normal skin types can enjoy the clarifying benefits without as much risk of over-drying.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Initial Purging & Smoothing
Skin begins to feel smoother as surface dead cells are removed. Some users may experience a mild purge — new breakouts surfacing as deeper congestion is pushed out. This is normal and temporary. Mild tingling is common, especially in the first few applications.
~70% notice smoother textureVisible Pore Clearing Begins
Blackheads and sebaceous filaments appear reduced. Skin looks less congested and the complexion starts to appear brighter. Oiliness in the T-zone becomes more controlled. Existing blemishes begin to heal faster than usual.
~65% notice fewer new breakoutsBreakouts Decrease Noticeably
Consistent users report a measurable reduction in active pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. Pores appear minimized. Skin texture becomes significantly more even and refined. Redness from active acne begins to subside more rapidly.
~80% report fewer active breakoutsSustained Clarity & Tone Improvement
With continued daily use, skin maintains a consistently clear, refined appearance. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from past breakouts begins to fade due to accelerated cell turnover. Oil production becomes more balanced and manageable throughout the day.
~85% satisfied with long-term resultsRatings by platform
9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum OTC strength 2% Salicylic Acid at an affordable price point (~$13–15)
- Lightweight, non-greasy liquid that absorbs quickly without residue
- Completely fragrance-free and alcohol-free — no stinging or harsh smell
- Fungal acne safe — no problematic fatty acids or ferments
- Visibly reduces pore size and blackheads with consistent use
- Dermatologist-recommended brand with a proven clinical track record
- HSA/FSA eligible as an FDA-regulated OTC acne medication
- Works well as a budget dupe for Paula's Choice 2% BHA
- Safe for daily use when paired with proper moisturizer and SPF
Criticized
- Bottle applicator can make it difficult to dispense onto a cotton pad cleanly
- Can cause dryness or tight feeling if used 2–3x daily without moisturizer
- 4 fl oz may run out quickly for those using it daily on face and body
- Not recommended during pregnancy — limits use for expectant mothers
- Initial purging phase may discourage some new users in the first 1–2 weeks
- Requires consistent SPF use, which some find inconvenient
- Very sensitive skin types may experience mild tingling on first applications
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical active concentration at 2% SA. The Ordinary's version uses a slightly more minimal base with fewer soothing botanicals. No Blue Algae or chamomile, but even more stripped-back for purists. Similar leave-on liquid format applied by cotton pad. Excellent value.
Same 2% SA concentration in a convenient pre-soaked pad format — great for on-the-go. Contains citric acid as an additional mild exfoliant. The classic version contains SD Alcohol 40, which may be drying; the alcohol-free "Sensitive" version is a better match. Lower soothing botanicals.
CeraVe's gel format with 2% SA also contains niacinamide for brightening and ceramides for barrier support. Gel texture (not liquid) means different application experience. Better for those who want added skin barrier repair ingredients alongside BHA exfoliation. Dermatologist-recommended brand.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. As with all salicylic acid products, potency may diminish after opening as the pH-sensitive active is exposed to air over time. Use within one year of opening for best results.
Store at room temperature (59–77°F / 15–25°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Avoid leaving in hot cars or humid bathrooms for extended periods.
Opaque plastic bottle with a flip-cap applicator opening. Shake well before each use. The opaque bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. A cotton pad is required for application — not included.
At 118 mL (4 fl oz), this bottle slightly exceeds the TSA 3.4 oz (100 mL) carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller travel container for carry-on compliance, or pack in checked luggage. A smaller personal travel size is not currently offered.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains 2% Salicylic Acid, which is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. While low-concentration topical salicylic acid is considered a much lower risk than oral salicylates, most OB/GYNs and dermatologists still recommend avoiding or minimizing use during pregnancy and breastfeeding — particularly over large areas of skin. Systemic absorption is low with topical application but not zero. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any salicylic acid product during pregnancy or while nursing. Glycolic acid (an AHA) is often recommended as a safer alternative during pregnancy for exfoliation.
Yes — PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant 2% Salicylic Acid is fully fungal acne safe. The formula does not contain any fermented ingredients, fatty acids (C11–C24), esters, polysorbates, or other compounds known to feed or exacerbate Malassezia overgrowth. In fact, salicylic acid itself has demonstrated antifungal properties at higher concentrations and may help with fungal-related breakouts. This makes it an excellent choice for those dealing with both fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) and bacterial acne simultaneously.
Yes, but proceed carefully and introduce new actives gradually. With retinol: use on alternate nights or at different times of day to avoid over-exfoliation and barrier disruption. With Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid): both work at a low pH, but layering can cause irritation for sensitive skin — use Vitamin C in the morning and BHA at night as a general rule. With AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid): do not use both exfoliants in the same routine. Use either AHA or BHA on a given day, never together, to prevent skin barrier damage. Always follow any exfoliant with a good moisturizer and daily SPF.
This product is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — the skin types that benefit most from BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) exfoliation. Oily skin benefits from the sebum-dissolving, pore-clearing action of salicylic acid. Combination skin benefits from targeted exfoliation of oilier zones. Acne-prone skin of all types can benefit from the anti-inflammatory and comedolytic (pore-clearing) properties. Normal skin can use it for maintenance exfoliation 2–3 times per week. Dry and sensitive skin types should use it more sparingly and always follow with a generous moisturizer.
Most users notice smoother skin texture within the first few days of use. Visible reduction in blackheads and pore congestion typically appears within 1–2 weeks with consistent daily use. A significant decrease in active breakouts is most commonly reported after 2–4 weeks of regular use. Some users experience an initial "purge" in the first 1–2 weeks — where hidden congestion surfaces faster — before skin clears significantly. Long-term improvements in pore size, skin tone, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) typically become visible after 6–8 weeks of consistent use. Patience and consistency are key to seeing optimal results.
Apply this leave-on exfoliant as the second step in your routine — immediately after cleansing and before any serums, treatments, or moisturizer. The correct order is: (1) Cleanser → (2) PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant → (3) Treatment Serum (if any) → (4) Moisturizer → (5) Sunscreen (morning only). Apply to clean, dry skin using a cotton pad. Wait 30–60 seconds for it to absorb before layering the next product. Do not mix with physical scrubs or other chemical exfoliants in the same routine.
No — PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula contains no oils, no silicones, no waxes, and no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, salicylic acid is a highly effective comedolytic agent — meaning it actively helps dissolve and prevent the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). The lightweight, water-based formula is specifically designed to be non-occlusive and non-pore-clogging, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 4 fl oz (118 mL) bottle typically lasts 2–4 months with daily use on the face only, or 1–2 months if also used on the body (chest, back). Preserve potency by keeping the cap tightly closed after each use, storing away from direct sunlight and heat, and not contaminating the opening. If the formula changes color, develops a strong odor, or the texture changes significantly, discontinue use.
Verdict: PanOxyl Clarifying Exfoliant 2% Salicylic Acid delivers an outstanding value proposition — it packs the maximum OTC-strength BHA into a well-formulated, alcohol-free, fragrance-free liquid at a fraction of the cost of prestige alternatives like Paula's Choice. The addition of Blue Algae and chamomile sets it apart from the most minimal BHA solutions on the market, making it gentler and more skin-nourishing than its affordable price tag suggests. For oily, acne-prone, or combination skin types dealing with blackheads, congested pores, or recurring breakouts, this is one of the most cost-effective, dermatologist-backed solutions available OTC. The main caveats — a slightly awkward applicator and the need for diligent moisturizing and SPF use — are minor compared to the clear, well-documented results most users experience. A superb everyday BHA that competes squarely with options costing 2–3x more.
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Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
|