Clear It Up Acne Clearing and Tone Correcting Gel
Clear It Up Acne Clearing and Tone Correcting Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A doctor-founded, probiotic-powered acne gel by Tula Skincare that combines FDA-approved 2% Salicylic Acid with Azelaic Acid, Niacinamide, and Lactococcus Ferment Lysate (probiotics) to clear active breakouts, prevent future blemishes, and fade post-acne marks — all without drying out or irritating the skin.
Probiotic & Prebiotic Blend
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate supports the skin microbiome, calms inflammation, and improves epidermal barrier function — a unique differentiator in the acne gel space.
Texture & feel
SENSORYProbiotic & Prebiotic Blend
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate supports the skin microbiome, calms inflammation, and improves epidermal barrier function — a unique differentiator in the acne gel space.
FDA-Approved BHA Exfoliant
2% Salicylic Acid is the maximum OTC concentration for acne treatment — it penetrates pores to dissolve dead skin cells and sebum that cause breakouts.
Dual Brightening Action
Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide work together to fade post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation, giving the formula a tone-correcting edge beyond basic acne treatment.
Hydration-Balanced Formula
Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, and Sodium PCA counteract the typical drying effect of salicylic acid, keeping skin comfortable and moisturized during treatment.
Willowherb Soothing Complex
Epilobium Angustifolium (Willowherb) extract is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps reduce redness and soothe irritated, blemish-prone skin without stinging.
Zero Harsh Additives
Free from alcohol, fragrance, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, and dyes — making it unusually gentle for an active acne treatment with 2% salicylic acid.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis product contains Salicylic Acid 2%, which is generally not recommended during pregnancy in leave-on concentrations above 0.5–2% BHA. Many dermatologists advise avoiding leave-on salicylic acid products while pregnant or nursing. Always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use.
Contains Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, a fermented probiotic ingredient that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast in some individuals. While bacterial ferments differ from the fatty acid ferments known to trigger fungal acne, those with confirmed fungal acne should patch test carefully or consult a dermatologist.
No known high-comedogenic oils or waxes in the formula. The gel-based, water-dominant formulation is lightweight and highly unlikely to clog pores. Ideal for acne-prone users who need an effective yet non-pore-blocking treatment.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and enriched with Bisabolol (Chamomile) and Allantoin to calm reactive skin. In clinical testing, this formula showed low irritation potential even on sensitive skin types.
Tula Skincare is certified cruelty-free and this formula is 100% vegan — no animal-derived ingredients or animal testing involved at any stage of production.
Use caution when layering with other BHAs, AHAs, retinoids, or benzoyl peroxide in the same routine, as over-exfoliation and irritation may occur. Best used AM or PM, not both, when using other exfoliants. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) is generally safe to use in a separate routine step.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
The FDA-approved hero active of this formula. A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve the sebum and dead skin cell plugs that cause blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne. At 2%, this is the maximum OTC concentration allowed for acne treatment.
- Mechanism: Lipid-soluble BHA that penetrates sebaceous follicles and exfoliates within the pore lining
- Acne Action: Unclogs pores, reduces comedones, and has anti-inflammatory properties
- Concentration: 2% — FDA-approved maximum for OTC acne treatment
Azelaic Acid ~1–2%Proven
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid produced by skin-dwelling yeast. It has clinically proven anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening effects. Especially valuable for fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) left by past blemishes — the "tone correcting" element of this gel.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production and fade dark spots
- Anti-acne: Reduces Cutibacterium acnes bacteria colonization and normalizes skin cell turnover
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and swelling associated with inflammatory acne
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate est. 0.5–2%Proven
Tula's signature probiotic extract — a lysate (broken-down) form of Lactococcus bacteria. Research indicates it supports epidermal growth factor activity, helping to improve skin barrier function, smooth texture, and calm inflammation without introducing live cultures.
- Barrier support: Stimulates epidermal growth and reinforces the skin's natural microbiome balance
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm active breakout redness and irritation
- Note: Does not contain live cultures; shelf-stable and suitable for use with actives
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) est. 2–5%Proven
One of the most well-researched multitaskers in skincare. In this formula, it works synergistically with Azelaic Acid to brighten marks, regulate sebum production, reduce pore appearance, and reinforce the skin barrier — delivering anti-acne and tone-correcting effects simultaneously.
- Sebum regulation: Reduces excess oil production in acne-prone skin
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce post-acne discoloration
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide and fatty acid synthesis in the skin
Epilobium Angustifolium Extract (Willowherb) 0.4–0.95%Promising
Derived from the Fireweed plant, Willowherb is a powerful botanical anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It inhibits 5-alpha-reductase (an enzyme linked to hormonal acne) and has demonstrated natural antimicrobial properties that complement the formula's acne-fighting actives.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation from active breakouts
- Hormonal acne: Inhibits 5-alpha-reductase, addressing androgenic triggers of acne
- Antioxidant: Protects skin from oxidative stress that can worsen acne lesions
Zinc PCA est. 0.5–1%Proven
A synergistic compound of Zinc (antibacterial, sebum-regulating) and L-PCA (hydrating amino acid derivative). Together they control excess oiliness, inhibit acne-causing bacteria proliferation, and help calm inflammatory skin reactions — a targeted support for oily and acne-prone skin.
- Sebum control: Zinc reduces sebaceous gland activity and excess oil production
- Antimicrobial: Inhibits growth of Cutibacterium acnes bacteria
- Hydration: PCA component acts as a natural moisturizing factor (NMF)
Sodium Hyaluronate est. 0.1–1%Proven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid — a powerful humectant capable of binding up to 1,000x its weight in water. Its smaller molecular size allows it to penetrate more deeply than standard Hyaluronic Acid, delivering deeper hydration to counteract the drying effects of Salicylic Acid.
- Humectancy: Draws and retains moisture in both the epidermis and upper dermis
- Balance: Prevents over-drying while using BHA actives
Bisabolol est. 0.1–0.5%Proven
The active component of Chamomile, Bisabolol is a renowned soothing and anti-inflammatory agent. It reduces skin irritation triggered by actives like Salicylic Acid, accelerates healing of acne lesions, and acts as a skin-conditioning agent that improves texture and softness.
- Soothing: Clinically demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties
- Healing: Supports faster recovery of damaged skin barrier
Allantoin est. 0.1–0.5%Proven
A keratolytic and soothing agent derived from comfrey plant (or synthesized). Allantoin promotes cell regeneration, soothes irritation, and helps heal post-acne skin more quickly. It's a gentle skin-conditioning ingredient that balances the exfoliating action of Salicylic Acid.
- Keratolytic: Promotes shedding of dead skin cells and skin renewal
- Healing: Accelerates tissue repair and soothes post-inflammatory skin
Lactic Acid est. 0.1–0.5%Promising
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk. At low concentrations used here, Lactic Acid acts primarily as a pH adjuster and mild exfoliant, helping maintain the formula's acidic pH range (optimal for Salicylic Acid efficacy) while providing a mild surface brightening effect.
- pH adjustment: Helps maintain the ~3.5–4.5 pH range optimal for BHA activity
- Mild exfoliation: Supports surface cell turnover and brightening
20 ingredients
Salicylic Acid 2%, Water, Sodium Polyacrylate, Sodium PCA, Glycerin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Azelaic Acid, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Zinc PCA, Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Niacinamide, Bisabolol, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Metabisulfite, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing (and toner if used) to clean skin. Allow to absorb fully before applying serum or moisturizer on top. Always follow with SPF during daytime use.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser and pat dry. Clean skin ensures the salicylic acid can penetrate the pores effectively without interference from makeup or SPF residue.
Apply a Thin, Even Layer
Dispense a small amount and apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) or entire face. Start with once daily to assess tolerance — especially if you are new to BHA exfoliants or salicylic acid.
Allow to Absorb
Let the gel absorb fully into the skin (approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute) before proceeding with the rest of your skincare routine. Do not rinse off.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your regular moisturizer to seal in hydration and support the skin barrier. If using in the AM, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, as salicylic acid increases photosensitivity.
Gradually Increase Frequency
Once tolerance is established after 1–2 weeks, you may increase to twice daily use (AM and PM) if needed. If dryness or peeling occurs, reduce back to once daily or every other day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate acne, blackheads, or whiteheads
- You want to both treat breakouts AND fade post-acne marks in one step
- Your skin reacts poorly to drying or irritating acne treatments
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin that needs gentle exfoliation
- You prefer clean, fragrance-free formulas with minimal additives
- You're dealing with hormonal adult acne and want a non-irritating option
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor about leave-on salicylic acid)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) and react to ferments
- You need severe, cystic acne treatment (may require prescription-strength actives)
- You are using prescription retinoids or other BHAs and risk over-exfoliation
- You have extremely dry or dehydrated skin as a primary concern without oiliness
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal formula for oily skin — lightweight gel texture absorbs instantly without adding shine. Zinc PCA and Salicylic Acid regulate sebum production and keep pores clear.
Works brilliantly across multiple face zones — targets oily T-zone breakouts while the hydrating agents (Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate) support drier cheek areas.
Designed specifically for acne-prone users — non-comedogenic, alcohol-free, and layered with multiple complementary acne-fighting actives. Clears current breakouts and prevents future ones.
Fragrance-free and enriched with calming Bisabolol and Allantoin. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin. Start with once-daily application to build tolerance gradually.
Humectants in the formula help, but those with very dry skin may find 2% Salicylic Acid drying over time. Use every other day and layer a rich moisturizer on top to maintain hydration balance.
Popular with adults dealing with hormonal acne. The doctor-founded formula is gentle enough for mature skin while still being highly effective against adult breakouts and PIH marks.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Visible Reduction in Active Breakouts
Many users report that active blemishes begin to reduce in size and redness within the first 2–3 days of use. The 2% Salicylic Acid immediately begins dissolving the pore-clogging debris inside breakouts.
~60% noticed faster spot resolutionClearer Skin Texture, Reduced New Breakouts
After consistent twice-daily use, users report significantly fewer new breakouts forming. Pore appearance begins to improve. Skin texture becomes smoother as surface exfoliation takes effect.
~75% noticed improvement after 1–2 weeksFading of Post-Acne Marks Begins
The Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide components begin to visibly brighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Dark spots and redness from previous breakouts start to fade. Tula's clinical data showed 96% of testers saw skin improvement within the first 3 weeks.
96% of testers saw improvement by week 3Sustained Clear Skin & Brightened Tone
With continued use, post-acne discoloration is significantly reduced and skin tone is noticeably more even. Breakout frequency is substantially reduced. Some users with hormonal acne report sustained clarity with ongoing use as part of a daily routine.
~85% satisfied with long-term resultsRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fast-acting — many users see reduced breakouts within 2–3 days
- Gentle formula that doesn't cause irritation, dryness, or peeling for most users
- Dual-action: clears acne AND fades post-acne marks in one product
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free — suitable for sensitive skin
- Probiotic blend is a unique differentiator that supports skin microbiome
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores while treating them
- Doctor-founded, clinically tested formula with FDA-approved active
- Suitable for teen through adult acne across all ages
Criticized
- Small bottle (1 fl oz / 30ml) with a relatively high price point (~$36–38)
- Contains Lactococcus Ferment Lysate — potential concern for confirmed fungal acne sufferers
- May cause mild initial dryness if used twice daily before skin adjusts
- Pregnancy safety concern due to leave-on 2% salicylic acid
- Results for severe/cystic acne are limited — suited for mild-to-moderate breakouts
- Some users report slightly sticky finish before moisturizer is applied on top
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar BHA 2% active with a soothing, non-drying gel formula. Lacks the probiotic/ferment component and has a slightly higher benzoyl peroxide-adjacent reputation. Very comparable effectiveness for acne clearing but less tone-correcting ability without dedicated Azelaic Acid or Niacinamide.
Same 2% Salicylic Acid concentration at a fraction of the cost. No probiotic, Azelaic Acid, or Niacinamide components — purely a BHA exfoliant without the tone-correcting benefits. Far less sophisticated formula but highly effective for pore clearing and basic acne treatment.
Dermatologist-recommended drugstore option with 2% Salicylic Acid and added ceramides for barrier support. Lacks Azelaic Acid and probiotic complex but offers better value. Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin at a much lower price point — but without the tone-correcting dual action.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDETula Clear It Up Acne Gel Featured
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Tula recommends using the Clear It Up Gel within 12 months for best efficacy of the active ingredients.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in a humid bathroom environment if possible — a bedroom vanity or medicine cabinet is ideal. Sodium Metabisulfite (antioxidant preservative) helps maintain stability.
Squeeze tube with applicator tip — allows for precise, targeted spot application or broader coverage. The tube packaging protects the formula from air oxidation and contamination better than jar-style packaging.
Yes — at 1 fl oz (30 ml), it is compliant with TSA/airline carry-on liquid restrictions (under 3.4 fl oz / 100 ml). Ideal for travel skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. This product contains Salicylic Acid 2% as a leave-on treatment. While topical Salicylic Acid in small amounts is generally considered lower risk than oral intake, most dermatologists and OB/GYNs recommend avoiding leave-on BHA products above 0.5–2% concentration during pregnancy as a precaution — especially over large areas of skin. The FDA has not approved topical salicylic acid specifically for use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, the risk is considered very low for spot use, but caution remains advisable. Always consult your healthcare provider before continuing or starting any active skincare treatment during pregnancy or while nursing.
Uncertain — use with caution. The formula contains Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, a bacterial probiotic extract. There is some debate in the skincare community about whether bacterial ferments (as opposed to fatty acid ferments like those from Saccharomyces) can trigger Malassezia folliculitis. The current scientific consensus suggests bacterial ferment lysates carry lower fungal acne risk than fatty acid-containing ferments, but individual responses vary. If you have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), we recommend patch testing this product on a small area for 2–3 weeks before full-face use, or consulting a dermatologist. The Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide in the formula actually have anti-fungal properties that may counterbalance any concern.
It depends on the specific combination and your skin's tolerance. Tula Clear It Up already contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) and a low amount of Lactic Acid (AHA), so combining it with additional AHA or BHA products in the same routine session can lead to over-exfoliation, irritation, and compromised skin barrier. Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene): avoid using in the same routine step as Salicylic Acid — alternate AM/PM, or use on different nights. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid): generally safe in a separate step (e.g., apply Vitamin C in AM, Tula Clear It Up in PM), as they serve different functions. Niacinamide is already in this formula, so you don't need to add a separate Niacinamide product. When in doubt, consult a dermatologist for a personalized routine.
Tula Clear It Up is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — especially those dealing with mild-to-moderate breakouts, whiteheads, blackheads, and post-acne marks. It is also well-tolerated by sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula enriched with soothing agents like Bisabolol and Allantoin. Those with very dry skin may find 2% Salicylic Acid somewhat drying with daily use and should start slowly and layer a rich moisturizer. It is recommended by Tula for acne-prone, combination, oily, dry, and mature skin types.
Many users report seeing a visible reduction in active breakouts within 2–3 days of consistent use. Tula's clinical data indicates that 96% of testers saw an improvement in their skin within the first 3 weeks of use. For post-acne mark fading and significant tone correction (via Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide), expect visible improvement after 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use. Overall skin clarity and texture improvements are typically well-established by the 8–12 week mark with regular use. Results vary based on acne severity, skin type, and how consistently the product is used.
Apply Tula Clear It Up after cleansing (and toning, if you use a toner) as your treatment step — before serums and moisturizer. The recommended routine order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Tula Clear It Up Acne Gel → Serum (optional) → Moisturizer → SPF (morning only). Allow the gel to fully absorb (30–60 seconds) before applying the next product. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, as Salicylic Acid increases the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation.
No — Tula Clear It Up is rated non-comedogenic with a comedogenic score of approximately 1/5. The formula contains no known high-comedogenic oils, waxes, or emollients. In fact, it actively works against pore-clogging: Salicylic Acid (BHA) is oil-soluble and penetrates and clears pore linings, while Zinc PCA regulates sebum production. The lightweight gel texture is water-based and absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy, occlusive residue. It is specifically formulated to reduce the likelihood of clogged pores, not contribute to it.
Tula recommends using Clear It Up within 12 months of opening (PAO: 12M) for best results and active ingredient efficacy. The 1 fl oz / 30 ml tube typically lasts approximately 8–10 weeks when used as directed (1–2 applications per day to the face), making the 12-month PAO more than sufficient for a single tube. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check the expiration date printed on the back of the packaging. Discard if the texture or smell changes significantly before the 12-month period.
Verdict: The Tula Skincare Clear It Up Acne Clearing & Tone Correcting Gel is one of the most well-rounded OTC acne treatments available. Its rare combination of FDA-approved 2% Salicylic Acid, tone-correcting Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide, soothing probiotic Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, and anti-inflammatory Willowherb in a fragrance-free, alcohol-free, non-comedogenic gel sets it apart from simpler single-active competitors. It genuinely lives up to its dual promise: clearing breakouts fast while fading the marks they leave behind. The doctor-founded credentials and clean ingredient list add further confidence. Minor caveats — its small 30ml size, pregnancy safety consideration, and potential concern for fungal acne sufferers — are worth noting, but for most oily-to-combination, acne-prone users, this is a highly effective, gentle, and thoughtfully formulated daily treatment.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 4 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Polyacrylate
Absorbent, Emollient, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium PCA
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|