Clean Start Face Cleanser
Clean Start Face Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A pH-balanced, silky gel cleanser powered by a triple ceramide complex, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin—developed by Dr. Martin Smith, MD, a double-board-certified eczema and skin sensitivity specialist. With only 11 clinically-proven ingredients and zero of the 128 most common contact allergens, this non-foaming formula gently removes makeup, SPF, oil, and daily impurities without stripping moisture or triggering irritation. Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance™ and a perfect SkinSAFE 100/100 score—the first of its kind in sensitive skincare.
MD-Developed for Sensitive Skin
Created by Dr. Martin Smith, a double-board-certified physician specializing in eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, and chronic skin sensitivity—bringing clinical-grade expertise to everyday skincare.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMD-Developed for Sensitive Skin
Created by Dr. Martin Smith, a double-board-certified physician specializing in eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, and chronic skin sensitivity—bringing clinical-grade expertise to everyday skincare.
128+ Allergen-Free Formula
Eliminates all 128 of the most common contact allergens still found in leading "sensitive skin" products, removing the triggers behind 99%+ of adverse skin reactions and irritation episodes.
Triple Ceramide Complex
Contains three distinct ceramide types—AP (6), EOP (1), and NP (3)—mirroring the natural lipid ratios found in healthy skin to actively reinforce and restore the moisture barrier after cleansing.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration Lock
Sodium hyaluronate penetrates the skin's surface to bind and retain moisture at a cellular level, counteracting the drying effect that most cleansers leave behind on the skin.
pH 5.5 Microbiome-Balanced
Precisely formulated to match the skin's natural slightly-acidic pH of 5.5, preserving the microbiome, preventing barrier disruption, and maintaining the acid mantle after every wash.
Proudly 11-Ingredient Formula
A minimal, intentional ingredient list that includes only what skin actually needs—no fillers, no fragrance, no unnecessary extras that dry, strip, or sensitize already-stressed skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEExplicitly confirmed safe by Dr. Martin Smith, MD. Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and all chemical sunscreen agents. Suitable for all trimesters and nursing mothers.
Contains no fermented ingredients, no problematic fatty acids, no polysorbates, and no oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Glutamate-based surfactants are confirmed FA-safe.
Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance™—the most rigorous standard in eczema product safety. Developed specifically by an eczema and dermatitis specialist.
Holds the highest possible rating from SkinSAFE, developed in partnership with the Mayo Clinic as a trusted, evidence-based standard for sensitive skin product safety.
Completely oil-free formula with zero ingredients rated as comedogenic. Safe for acne-prone skin and will not block or clog pores with regular use.
Gentle enough for babies, children, tweens, and teens. No harsh actives, no irritants, and no ingredients restricted for pediatric use. One cleanser for the whole family.
Includes phenoxyethanol at typical cosmetic concentrations (approx. 0.5–1%). Generally very well tolerated, but those with extreme preservative hypersensitivity should perform a patch test first.
Citric acid is present as a pH adjuster at low concentrations, not at the 20%+ levels required for active exfoliation. It does not function as an AHA in this formula.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~8–12%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally present in the skin's own moisture factor. Glycerin attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, maintaining hydration throughout the cleansing process and preventing the taut, dry sensation common after washing.
- Mechanism: Humectant—draws and binds water molecules to the skin's outer layers via hydrogen bonding.
- Research: A 2016 comparative study found glycerin outperformed AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a standalone humectant in skin hydration measurements.
- Barrier Support: Stimulates keratinocyte differentiation and supports lamellar body secretion, aiding natural barrier formation.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0. Nonirritating, nontoxic, suitable for all ages including infants.
Triple Ceramide Complex (AP + EOP + NP) Key ActiveProven
Three distinct ceramide types—Ceramide AP (Ceramide 6), Ceramide EOP (Ceramide 1), and Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3)—work synergistically to mimic the natural lipid composition of healthy skin. Together they help seal intercellular gaps in the stratum corneum, reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and actively support barrier repair after cleansing.
- Ceramide AP (6): An acylated ceramide that plays a key role in maintaining the ordered lamellar structure of the skin barrier.
- Ceramide EOP (1): A long-chain ceramide critical for structural integrity; deficiency is linked to eczema and atopic dermatitis.
- Ceramide NP (3): One of the most abundant ceramides in healthy skin; directly supports moisture retention and barrier function.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show topically applied ceramides reduce TEWL and improve hydration scores in compromised skin, particularly when used in balanced formulations.
Sodium Hyaluronate Low–Mid MWProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, with smaller molecular weight than standard HA that allows it to penetrate more effectively into the upper layers of the epidermis. In this rinse-off formula, sodium hyaluronate works rapidly during contact time to coat the skin with moisture-retaining film, leaving skin feeling soft and non-dehydrated after rinsing.
- Water Holding: Can bind up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, functioning as a reservoir humectant at the skin surface.
- Mechanism: Unlike HA, the sodium salt form has better water solubility and interaction with skin lipids, improving deposition even in wash-off products.
- FA Safe: Hyaluronate is a polysaccharide with no fatty acid chains—confirmed safe for Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne).
Disodium & Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate Surfactant BlendProven
A dual glutamate-based surfactant system derived from coconut oil and fermented glutamic acid. Unlike harsh sulfates or cocamidopropyl betaine (a top allergen), these amino acid surfactants cleanse effectively while maintaining a near-neutral charge that minimizes disruption to the skin's charge balance and natural moisture factors.
- Allergen Profile: Glutamate surfactants have significantly lower sensitization potential than sulfates, betaines, and most conventional cleansing agents in clinical patch testing.
- pH Range: Naturally compatible with skin's acidic pH range (4.5–6.0), supporting this formula's 5.5 pH target.
- Emolliency: Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate leaves a slight emollient film on skin post-rinse, contributing to the non-tight feel.
- FA Safe: Glutamate surfactants are confirmed safe for fungal acne—they do not provide nutrients that feed Malassezia yeast.
11 ingredients — Water, Glycerin, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleansing step in both AM and PM routines. For heavy makeup or sunscreen, consider double-cleansing with a micellar water (like Untoxicated's Blank Slate) before this gel cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash face and hands with lukewarm water. Avoid very hot water, which can disrupt the skin's moisture barrier and dilate capillaries in sensitive skin.
Dispense & Apply
Pump 1–2 pea-sized amounts into damp palms. For normal daily cleansing, 1 pump is typically sufficient. Increase to 2 pumps for heavier makeup days.
Massage Gently
Work the cleanser onto your face using gentle, upward circular motions for 30–60 seconds. A mild lather will form. Avoid tugging or aggressive scrubbing—especially on inflamed or reactive areas.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no cleanser residue remains—especially around the hairline, jaw, and nose. Incomplete rinsing can cause temporary film or mildness perception.
Pat Dry
Gently pat (do not rub) dry with a clean, soft cloth or towel. Leave skin slightly damp before applying next skincare steps to maximize humectant absorption.
Continue Your Routine
Follow immediately with toner, serum, and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum mineral SPF 30+ to protect the newly cleansed skin barrier.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin
- Your skin stings, burns, or flushes with most cleansers
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a verified safe option
- You're rebuilding a damaged or compromised skin barrier
- You prefer minimal, clean, allergen-free ingredient lists
- You've experienced contact dermatitis or fragrance reactions
- You want one cleanser safe for the entire family
- You have dry, normal, or combination skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer a rich, satisfying foam lather for oily skin cleansing
- You need active acne treatment (BHA, AHA) built into your cleanser
- You're on a very tight drugstore budget (comparable options at ~$10)
- You prefer a micellar or oil-based cleansing method exclusively
- You love lather as a sensory cue that skin is "clean"
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe gold standard for this skin type. Zero common allergens, NEA-certified, and developed specifically by an eczema specialist. Ideal for rosacea, dermatitis, and hypersensitive skin.
Triple ceramides, glycerin, and sodium hyaluronate work together to prevent moisture loss during cleansing. Skin feels soft and hydrated immediately after rinsing—never tight or parched.
Effective daily cleansing that maintains the natural skin balance without over-stripping. The pH 5.5 formula keeps the microbiome intact and skin comfortable throughout the day.
Works well across different zones. The non-foaming gel cleanses without over-drying cheeks, while the glutamate surfactants still clear excess oil from the T-zone effectively.
Effectively cleanses excess sebum without a typical foaming lather. Some with very oily skin may prefer a second PM cleanse or a foaming option, but this works well for AM and lighter days.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, and oil-free. Ceramides help restore barrier function compromised by acne treatments like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. Ideal as a gentle base cleanser.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort—No Tightness or Stinging
From the very first wash, skin feels clean without the tight, stripped sensation typical of conventional cleansers. No stinging, no burning, no redness—even for eczema or rosacea-prone skin.
95% notice zero irritation immediatelyReduced Redness & Inflammation
Reactive skin begins to calm as the allergen-free formula removes ongoing contact irritants from the cleansing step. Skin looks less flushed and irritated compared to reactive-ingredient cleansers.
78% report visible calming within one weekStronger Skin Barrier & Less Reactivity
Regular ceramide deposition begins supporting barrier repair. Skin shows reduced trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and becomes less reactive to environmental triggers, temperature changes, and other products.
82% report less reactive skin overallLong-Term Barrier Restoration
Consistent use delivers cumulative barrier-building benefits. Note: some users experience a "skin detox period" of 1–2 weeks when switching from conventional cleansers as the microbiome rebalances. This is normal and temporary.
88% report significantly improved skin resilienceRatings by platform
800+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Zero stinging, burning, or tightness—even for eczema skin
- Fragrance-free formula with no irritating fragrance chemicals
- Triple ceramide complex actively supports barrier repair
- SkinSAFE 100/100 and NEA Seal of Acceptance—clinical credibility
- Pregnancy, nursing, and baby safe—one product for the whole family
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (0/5)
- Works as both AM and PM cleanser without over-stripping
- Non-foaming silky texture leaves no residue
- Only 11 ingredients—incredibly easy to manage if tracking sensitivities
- Developed by a board-certified dermatologist and eczema specialist
Criticized
- Non-foaming texture may feel less satisfying for oily skin users
- At $19.95 / 7 fl oz, price per ounce is higher than drugstore options
- No active treatment ingredients (no BHA, AHA, or niacinamide)
- Minimal retail availability—primarily online only
- Some users experience a 1–2 week adjustment ("detox") period
- Only one size available—no trial or travel-size option
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares ceramides (3 types) and hyaluronic acid in a non-foaming formula. However, it contains cocamidopropyl betaine (a top contact allergen), niacinamide, and fragrance masking agents that Untoxicated excludes. Widely available at most drugstores. Not confirmed allergen-free to the same clinical standard.
Excellent sensitive-skin credentials—free from dyes, fragrance, parabens, and formaldehyde releasers. However, it lacks ceramides and hyaluronic acid, making it a gentler but less barrier-supportive option. A strong option for those who primarily need hypoallergenic cleansing without the ceramide complex.
A dermatologist-recommended gel cleanser with a short ingredient list and ceramide 3. More widely available in retail. Contains glycerin and niacinamide, and is fragrance-free. However, the formula includes several ingredients absent from Untoxicated and lacks the same NEA certification and allergen-free clinical validation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEUntoxicated Clean Start
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The phenoxyethanol preservative system maintains formula integrity and microbial safety for up to one year from first use.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing in hot, steamy showers long-term. Keep at room temperature (below 30°C / 86°F).
Pump-dispenser bottle (7 fl oz / 207 mL). The pump format is hygienic, limits air exposure, and provides consistent dosing. Note: packaging graphics may vary as the brand is transitioning to updated packaging—formula remains identical.
The 207 mL bottle exceeds the 100 mL carry-on liquid limit for air travel. Decant into a travel-size bottle (available separately) for carry-on use. Full bottle approved for checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes—explicitly and unambiguously. Untoxicated's Clean Start Facial Cleanser has been confirmed safe for use during all trimesters of pregnancy and while breastfeeding by Dr. Martin Smith, MD, the board-certified physician who formulated it. The formula contains no retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreen agents, and no other ingredients of concern during pregnancy. It is also safe for newborns and young children, making it an ideal single cleanser for the entire family throughout all life stages.
Yes. The Clean Start Facial Cleanser is confirmed safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains no fermented ingredients, no isolated fatty acids (C11–C24) that feed Malassezia yeast, no polysorbates, and no oils. The glutamate-based surfactants (Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate and Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate) are derived from amino acids and coconut, but in their surfactant form they do not provide nutrients for Malassezia. Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, ceramides, and xanthan gum are all confirmed fungal acne safe.
Absolutely. As a rinse-off cleanser, Clean Start washes completely off the skin and does not interact with actives applied afterward in your routine. In fact, its ceramide-rich, barrier-supporting formula makes it an excellent pairing for potent actives like retinoids, vitamin C serums, and chemical exfoliants that can compromise the skin barrier. Using a gentle, non-stripping cleanser like this protects the barrier while allowing your actives to perform optimally. Apply retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA products after cleansing, toning, and (where indicated) on dry skin as directed by each product.
The Clean Start Facial Cleanser is clinically suitable for all skin types and has been tested for use by all ages. It was specifically designed for sensitive, reactive, eczema-prone, and dermatitis-affected skin—where conventional cleansers frequently cause stinging, redness, and stripping. It is also excellent for dry skin (ceramides and glycerin prevent dehydration) and normal skin (pH 5.5 maintains microbiome balance). Combination and oily skin users will find it effective, though those who prefer a rich foam sensation may find the non-foaming texture less satisfying. It is also one of the only cleansers with both NEA Seal of Acceptance and SkinSAFE 100/100—making it the top choice for anyone managing a skin condition.
Results vary by skin concern. Immediate results (first wash): no tightness, no stinging, comfortable clean feel. Short-term (1–2 weeks): sensitive or reactive skin often calms noticeably as the allergen-free formula removes ongoing irritant exposure from the cleansing step. Medium-term (2–4 weeks): the ceramide complex begins supporting measurable barrier improvement, reducing reactivity and trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Important: some users experience a 1–2 week "adjustment period" when transitioning from conventional cleansers, during which the skin and microbiome rebalance. This is normal and temporary. Long-term barrier restoration benefits compound with consistent daily use over 1–3 months.
Clean Start is Step 1 of both your morning and evening skincare routine—it is your primary facial cleanser. In the morning: Cleanser → Toner/Essence → Serum → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → SPF. In the evening: (Optional micellar or oil cleanse for heavy makeup/SPF) → Clean Start Cleanser → Toner → Treatment Serum → Moisturizer. As a cleanser, it always comes before any leave-on skincare products. Do not mix it with other products; rinse completely before proceeding to your next routine step.
No. The Clean Start Facial Cleanser is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is completely oil-free, contains no waxes, esters, or fatty compounds that are known to clog pores. All active ingredients—glycerin, ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, and glutamate surfactants—have comedogenic ratings of 0 or 1. The rinse-off nature of the formula further minimizes any potential for residue-related pore congestion. It is safe for use by acne-prone individuals, including those using anti-acne treatments, and is specifically formulated to support (not compromise) the skin barrier alongside such treatments.
The Clean Start Facial Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The formula is preserved with phenoxyethanol, which maintains microbial safety and formula stability for one year from the date you first open the bottle. The 7 fl oz (207 mL) pump bottle provides approximately 2–4 months of daily use for one person using 1–2 pumps twice per day, so you will typically use the product well within its shelf life. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Discard if the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The Untoxicated Clean Start Face Cleanser is the most rigorously allergen-free facial cleanser available in its price range—and arguably in any price range. Its 11-ingredient formula strips out every documented contact irritant while delivering meaningful barrier support through a triple ceramide complex, glycerin, and sodium hyaluronate. The clinical credibility is unmatched: NEA Seal of Acceptance, SkinSAFE 100/100 (Mayo Clinic), EWG Low Score, and explicit MD-confirmed pregnancy safety. For sensitive, reactive, eczema-prone, or barrier-compromised skin, this is the cleanser to reach for. The non-foaming texture and $19.95 price point are the only real points of friction—but both are entirely reasonable tradeoffs for a formula this clean, this safe, and this well-supported by clinical evidence.
Browse related
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Xanthan Gum
Binding Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning, Surfactant -Emulsifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding, Gel Forming, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Ceramide AP
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Hydrating
Irritation
|