Clear Pore Oil-Eliminating Astringent
Clear Pore Oil-Eliminating Astringent
Product Description
Product overview
A maximum-strength, daily oil-control astringent by Neutrogena specially formulated for acne-prone skin. Powered by 2% Salicylic Acid and Witch Hazel, this dermatologist-recommended toner penetrates deep into pores to remove dirt, oil, and makeup while treating active breakouts and preventing future blemishes — without over-drying.
Maximum-Strength 2% Salicylic Acid
OTC acne medication at the FDA-maximum 2% concentration. Penetrates into pores to dissolve excess sebum, dead skin cells, and comedone plugs that cause breakouts and blackheads.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMaximum-Strength 2% Salicylic Acid
OTC acne medication at the FDA-maximum 2% concentration. Penetrates into pores to dissolve excess sebum, dead skin cells, and comedone plugs that cause breakouts and blackheads.
Witch Hazel Astringent Action
Hamamelis Virginiana Water delivers natural tannins that act as a potent astringent — tightening pores, reducing surface oil, and providing antibacterial and antioxidant benefits.
Instant Oil Control & Shine Reduction
Combines Alcohol Denat. with Witch Hazel for immediate mattifying action. Skin visibly less shiny right after application — ideal before makeup or for midday touch-ups.
Soothing Botanical Extracts
Aloe Barbadensis and Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract calm post-cleansing irritation, reduce redness, and counterbalance the drying effects of the actives.
Use Morning, Noon & Night
Unlike many astringents, this formula is designed for up to three daily applications. The balanced humectant system (Butylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20) prevents over-drying.
FDA-Regulated OTC Acne Treatment
Classified as an OTC drug with Salicylic Acid as the registered active ingredient. This means it must meet strict efficacy and safety standards — not just a cosmetic claim.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with Caution. Contains Salicylic Acid 2% (OTC drug level). While topical salicylic acid at low concentrations (below 2%) is generally considered low-risk, the FDA advises consulting a healthcare provider before using OTC acne medications at 2% during pregnancy. Avoid during the third trimester. Always consult your OB-GYN or midwife before use.
This formula does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acids, oils, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe to use alongside a fungal acne treatment routine.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Oil-free, lightweight liquid formula. Contains no known pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Specifically designed to unclog pores, not block them.
Contains Alcohol Denat. and Fragrance (Parfum). These may cause irritation, stinging, or dryness in sensitive or compromised skin. Start with once-daily use and patch test first. Those with rosacea or eczema should be cautious.
Use at different times of day. Salicylic acid can boost retinol penetration and potentially increase irritation when used together. Apply the astringent in the AM and retinoids in the PM routine.
No known interaction between salicylic acid and niacinamide at these concentrations. They can be layered safely and are often recommended together for acne-prone skin.
Avoid using alongside other exfoliating acids (glycolic, lactic) in the same routine step. Over-exfoliation can severely disrupt the skin barrier, causing dryness, flaking, and irritation.
Contains Alcohol Denat. as a primary ingredient. The product is flammable. Do not use near open flames or while smoking. Keep tightly capped when not in use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Gold Standard Active
The star active ingredient and FDA-registered acne medication. A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, enabling it to penetrate into pores and dissolve the excess sebum and dead cell buildup that causes whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory acne. Also has proven anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mechanism: Breaks down the intercellular cement that holds dead skin cells together (corneodesmosomes), preventing pore blockages
- Concentration: 2% — FDA maximum OTC strength for acne treatment; the most clinically studied concentration
- Anti-inflammatory: Derived from salicin (willow bark family); reduces prostaglandin synthesis responsible for redness and swelling around blemishes
- Exfoliation depth: Works both on skin surface AND inside pores — unlike AHAs which only exfoliate the surface
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water High ConcentrationProven
The distilled water extract from Witch Hazel bark and leaves — one of the most well-known astringent botanicals in skincare. Provides tannins (specifically hamamelitannin and gallic acid) that constrict pore appearance, reduce surface oil, and deliver mild antimicrobial effects.
- Astringent effect: Tannins cause temporary protein coagulation on skin surface, visibly tightening pores and reducing oiliness
- Antioxidant: Rich in polyphenols that combat free radical damage and help calm redness
- Antibacterial: Helps reduce P. acnes bacteria populations on the skin surface
Alcohol Denat. (Denatured Alcohol) Secondary SolventFunctional
Ethanol with denaturing agents to make it undrinkable. Functions as a solvent for the salicylic acid (which has low water solubility), penetration enhancer, and antimicrobial agent. Also contributes to the astringent feel and instant oil-removing effect.
- Penetration enhancement: Temporarily disrupts lipid layers allowing salicylic acid to penetrate more effectively into pores
- Antimicrobial: Effective against Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) bacteria
- Drawback: Can be drying and potentially irritating for sensitive or dry skin types with regular use
Butylene Glycol HumectantProven
A multifunctional glycol that acts as a humectant (draws moisture to the skin), solvent, and skin-conditioning agent. Helps counteract the drying effects of the alcohol and salicylic acid, while also improving the spreadability and texture of the formula.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains water molecules in the outer skin layers
- Penetration booster: Enhances delivery of active ingredients deeper into skin
- Comedogenic rating: 1/5 — very low risk of pore-clogging
Methyl Gluceth-20 MoisturizerPromising
A corn sugar-derived, water-soluble humectant and emollient. Provides skin conditioning benefits and helps maintain moisture balance in what would otherwise be a very stripping formula. Helps deliver a comfortable skin feel after use.
- Source: Derived from glucose (corn sugar) — renewable and gentle
- Function: Moisture retention and skin-softening; improves formula aesthetics
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract SoothingProven
Aloe vera gel extract — one of the most researched soothing botanicals in skincare. Provides anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and skin-calming benefits. Particularly helpful in this formula for reducing redness and irritation caused by the actives.
- Active compounds: Acemannan polysaccharides, anthraquinones, vitamins C and E
- Clinical evidence: Multiple studies confirm aloe reduces skin inflammation and supports wound healing
- Comedogenic: Rating 0 — completely non-comedogenic
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract Anti-inflammatoryProven
German chamomile extract containing the active compound bisabolol and chamazulene. Clinically proven anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Helps calm acne-related redness and post-inflammatory sensitivity.
- Key actives: Alpha-bisabolol reduces skin inflammation; chamazulene provides antioxidant protection
- Traditional use: Centuries of evidence as a topical anti-irritant in European pharmacy traditions
Benzophenone-4 UV FilterFunctional
A UV absorber used primarily in cosmetics to protect the formula itself (not your skin) from UV-induced degradation. Prevents salicylic acid and botanical extracts from breaking down when exposed to light during storage and use.
- Function: Product stabilizer / photostabilizer — not a sunscreen for the skin
- Note: Related to Benzophenone-3 (oxybenzone) but considered a separate, less controversial compound at cosmetic use levels
14 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2% (Acne Medication)
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Alcohol Denat., Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycereth-7, Methyl Gluceth-20, Alcohol, Parfum (Fragrance), Propylene Glycol, Benzophenone-4, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Blue 1 (CI 42090)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply immediately after cleansing on clean, dry skin. Let absorb fully (30 seconds) before applying moisturizer. Always follow with SPF 30+ in the morning — salicylic acid increases sun sensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash your face thoroughly with your regular cleanser and pat dry. The astringent works best on clean skin without makeup, sunscreen, or excess oil on the surface.
Apply with Cotton Pad
Saturate a cotton ball or cotton pad with the astringent. Gently sweep across the entire face — including forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks. Avoid the immediate eye area and lips.
Target Breakout-Prone Areas
Pay extra attention to oily areas like the T-zone, chin, and sides of the nose. For body acne (chest, back, shoulders), apply directly to affected areas after showering.
Allow to Fully Absorb
Let the astringent absorb for at least 30 seconds before applying other products. The formula evaporates quickly, leaving skin feeling clean and matte.
Moisturize Immediately After
Always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to replenish hydration. This is essential — skipping moisturizer can trigger excess oil production and worsen breakouts over time.
Frequency: Start Once Daily, Build Up
Begin with once-daily use (ideally at night). After 1-2 weeks, if tolerated well, gradually increase to twice or three times daily. Never exceed 3 applications per day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want a budget-friendly, OTC-strength acne treatment
- You need all-day oil control and shine reduction
- You want a once-and-done toner + acne treatment step
- You use it on body acne (back, chest, shoulders)
- You're a fan of no-frills, clinically-backed formulas
Consider alternatives if:
- You have dry, very sensitive, or dehydrated skin
- You have eczema, rosacea, or a damaged skin barrier
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor)
- You are sensitive to fragrance or alcohol
- You are already using strong retinoids or AHA exfoliants
- You prefer fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulas
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal skin type for this product. Controls shine immediately, reduces excess sebum, and treats breakouts simultaneously. The light watery texture never feels heavy or greasy.
This is the primary target audience. Maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid directly addresses the root causes of acne — clogged pores, excess oil, and bacterial proliferation.
Works well when focused on oily areas (T-zone). Apply with a targeted approach — concentrate on forehead, nose, and chin while avoiding very dry zones. Follow with a hydrating moisturizer.
The alcohol content can exacerbate dryness and tightness. If you have dry skin with occasional breakouts, use only once every other day and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Consider an alcohol-free BHA alternative.
Contains fragrance and alcohol — two common irritants for sensitive skin. Patch test on the inner arm before first use. May sting on reactive skin. Start with once-weekly use before increasing frequency.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Oil Removal & Clean Skin Feel
Skin feels noticeably cleaner and less oily right after application. The astringent removes surface sebum, residual cleanser, and any leftover makeup traces. Pores appear visibly tighter within minutes.
95% noticed immediatelyReduced Surface Oil Throughout the Day
Regular users report skin staying shine-free for longer periods. New comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) begin to form less frequently as the salicylic acid starts clearing the pore lining. Some initial purging may occur as existing clogs are cleared.
75% noticed within 2 weeksVisible Reduction in Breakouts
Existing blemishes begin to heal faster. New breakouts are smaller and less frequent. Blackhead count visibly reduced. Pore appearance minimized. Skin texture starts to smooth out as surface cell turnover accelerates.
68% noticed by week 4Clear, Smoother Skin with Consistent Use
Sustained daily use produces significantly clearer skin in users with mild to moderate acne. Pores look refined, skin tone more even, and breakouts become infrequent maintenance issues rather than ongoing concerns. Long-term users report up to 90% reduction in breakout frequency.
60% clear or near-clear by month 3Ratings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid at a drugstore price
- Noticeably controls oil and shine immediately after use
- Works effectively on both face and body acne
- Gentle enough for up to 3x daily use per the label
- Very affordable — large 8 fl. oz. bottle lasts for months
- FDA-regulated OTC drug — proven efficacy claims
- Soothing aloe and chamomile reduce irritation
- Long-time users praise life-changing, long-term acne clearance
- Paraben-free, phthalate-free, talc-free formulation
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) — not suitable for very sensitive skin
- High alcohol content can be drying and stinging
- Bottle has no tamper-evident inner seal — leaking risk when shipped
- Strong medicinal / alcohol scent is polarizing
- Not suitable during pregnancy without medical advice
- Can cause initial purging in some users
- Not ideal for dry or barrier-compromised skin
- Propylene Glycol may irritate those with PG sensitivity
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar astringent concept from the same parent company (Kenvue). Contains salicylic acid but at a lower 0.5% concentration — gentler for beginners or sensitive skin. Also contains alcohol. Good choice if Neutrogena's formula feels too strong. Smaller bottle size.
Pre-soaked cotton pads with the same 2% salicylic acid OTC concentration. Alcohol-free formula is gentler on the skin barrier. Beloved by dermatologist communities online. No liquid to measure or spill. Slightly different texture feel but nearly identical active ingredient profile.
Same 2% salicylic acid active but a premium, fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulation. Significantly gentler for sensitive skin with a more sophisticated texture. Much higher price point but considered the gold standard BHA toner. Ideal upgrade for users who see results with Neutrogena but want less irritation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The alcohol content provides preservative action, but salicylic acid potency can diminish after 12 months. Check for changes in color, scent, or consistency.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep tightly capped — the formula contains alcohol and will evaporate if left open. Keep away from open flames.
8 fl. oz. (236 mL) screw-cap plastic bottle. Note: does not include an inner tamper-evident foil seal. Cap securely after each use to prevent leaking and evaporation during storage or travel.
The 8 oz. bottle exceeds the 100 mL TSA liquid limit for carry-on bags. For travel, transfer into a smaller leak-proof travel bottle under 100 mL. Wrap securely as this product can leak without an inner seal.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy. This product contains Salicylic Acid at the maximum OTC concentration of 2%, which classifies it as an acne medication drug product. While low-concentration topical salicylic acid (under 2%) is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy when used on limited skin areas, the FDA advises pregnant or nursing individuals to consult a healthcare provider before using any OTC acne medications. Salicylic acid at higher systemic exposures (from oral intake) carries known risks, but topical use is considered much lower risk due to limited absorption. As a precautionary measure, particularly during the third trimester, it is best to avoid this product and ask your OB-GYN or midwife about pregnancy-safe acne alternatives such as benzoyl peroxide-free topical treatments or azelaic acid.
Yes — this product is considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula does not contain fatty acids, fermented ingredients, fatty esters, polysorbates, or oils that are known to feed Malassezia yeast on the skin. The salicylic acid and witch hazel may actually benefit those with fungal acne by keeping pores clear and reducing the buildup of sebum that can contribute to yeast overgrowth. Always confirm with your dermatologist if you have a confirmed diagnosis of fungal acne, as it can appear similar to bacterial acne but requires different treatment approaches.
You can use this product alongside retinol and Vitamin C, but with careful timing and pacing. Do not apply them in the same routine step. A recommended approach: use this astringent in your morning routine and retinol at night. For Vitamin C, apply it after this astringent has dried, or use them in opposite routines. Regarding other AHAs or BHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid): avoid layering them on top of this astringent in the same session, as stacking multiple exfoliating acids can severely over-exfoliate the skin and damage the barrier, causing dryness, peeling, and increased sensitivity. Use no more than one exfoliating acid per routine step.
This product performs best for oily and acne-prone skin types. Its oil-eliminating formula, maximum-strength salicylic acid, and astringent action from witch hazel are specifically designed to manage excess sebum production and prevent clogged pores. Combination skin users also do well when they focus application on oily zones (T-zone) only. It is not recommended as a daily treatment for dry or sensitive skin types due to the high alcohol content and fragrance, which can worsen dryness, tightness, and irritation. Very sensitive skin types or those with active skin conditions like eczema or rosacea should avoid this product or consult a dermatologist first.
Oil control is visible immediately from the very first use — skin feels cleaner, less greasy, and pores look temporarily tighter right after application. For actual acne treatment results, consistent daily use is required. Most users see a reduction in new breakouts and blackheads within 2 to 4 weeks of regular use. Significant clearance of existing acne and visible improvement in skin texture typically occurs between weeks 4 and 8. For some users, an initial "purging" phase occurs in the first 1–2 weeks, where existing clogged pores are rapidly cleared, causing a temporary increase in surface blemishes before the skin clears. This is normal with salicylic acid. Long-term users (2–3 months of consistent use) report up to 90% reduction in chronic breakout frequency.
Apply this astringent as step 2 in your routine — immediately after cleansing and before any serums, treatments, or moisturizer. Cleanse your skin first to remove makeup and surface impurities, then apply the astringent on a cotton pad to your entire face. Let it absorb fully for about 30 seconds. Follow with your serums or spot treatments, then lock everything in with a non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen — salicylic acid increases photosensitivity. The astringent should come before any hydrating or treatment layers, as its exfoliating action helps other actives penetrate more effectively.
No — this product is non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of 1/5. It is specifically formulated to unclog pores, not block them. The salicylic acid active ingredient is an oil-soluble BHA that penetrates into the pore canal to dissolve the dead cells and excess sebum that form comedone plugs (blackheads and whiteheads). The formula contains no heavy oils, waxes, or emollients that could contribute to pore blockage. It is entirely oil-free. It is widely used by acne-prone individuals and is one of Neutrogena's most recommended products for oily, breakout-prone skin types.
The recommended period after opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 8 fl. oz. / 236 mL bottle is generous in size — at 1–2 uses daily with a standard cotton pad, it can easily last 3 to 6 months of regular use. The alcohol content in the formula acts as a natural preservative, helping to extend stability. However, over time salicylic acid can slowly degrade — especially if exposed to light or heat. Store it capped, in a cool, dry place. If you notice a significant change in color, smell, or consistency before the 12-month mark, discontinue use. Note that the cap does not include an inner tamper-evident seal, so ensure it is tightly closed after every use to prevent evaporation.
Verdict: The Neutrogena Clear Pore Oil-Eliminating Astringent is a no-nonsense, dermatologist-recommended acne toner that delivers real, clinically-backed results at a very affordable price. With maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid paired with natural witch hazel, it effectively controls oil, unclogs pores, and significantly reduces breakout frequency when used consistently. The large 8 oz. bottle offers outstanding value — this is one of the most cost-effective 2% BHA treatments on the market. The main caveats are the fragrance and alcohol content, which make it unsuitable for dry or very sensitive skin, and the caution required during pregnancy. For oily, acne-prone skin that can tolerate an alcohol-based formula, this is a proven, long-trusted drugstore hero worth adding to your routine.
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 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
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glycereth-7
Solvent, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling
|
|