Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution
Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing brightening serum formulated with Activated C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), buffered Salicylic Acid, and Proxylane to visibly reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks. Clinically tested on 47 skin tones across all ethnicities — this is Kiehl's #1 bestselling facial serum.
Activated C (Stable Vitamin C)
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a stable, oil-soluble Vitamin C derivative that penetrates skin quickly to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation without oxidizing in the bottle.
Texture & feel
SENSORYActivated C (Stable Vitamin C)
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is a stable, oil-soluble Vitamin C derivative that penetrates skin quickly to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation without oxidizing in the bottle.
Buffered Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Gently exfoliates skin's surface and inside pores, helping break up discoloration and improve skin texture for a more even complexion.
Proxylane (Hydroxypropyl Tetrahydropyrantriol)
A patented sugar-derived ingredient that supports the skin's extracellular matrix, helping improve skin firmness and overall texture over time.
Peony & White Birch Extracts
Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract helps protect against oxidative damage, while Citrus Aurantium Tachibana Peel Extract contributes to skin tone clarification.
Multi-Ethnic Clinically Tested
Tested on 47 skin tones with a panel equally distributed across African American, Asian, Caucasian, and Hispanic skin types for true universal efficacy.
97% Clinical Efficacy Rate
In a 12-week clinical study of 104 subjects, 97% saw a visible reduction in hyperpigmentation and dark spots. 87% saw reduction in post-acne marks.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally considered safe at low concentrations topically, but many dermatologists advise limiting BHA use during pregnancy as a precaution. Lavender oil is also present. Consult your OB-GYN before use. No retinoids or hydroquinone — those unsafe ingredients are absent.
Contains Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E acetate), which is a fatty acid ester that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast. Those with fungal acne should patch test or consult a dermatologist. No polysorbates or ferments are present.
The formula is effectively non-comedogenic. No heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients. Lavender Oil rates 2/5, but is present in trace amounts. Suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Dermatologist-tested for safety and gentleness on sensitive skin. Contains less than 1% synthetic fragrance. Free of parabens, sulfates SLS & SLES, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, coal tar, and triclosan.
No retinoids in this formula — safe to layer with your retinol at night. However, the BHA (Salicylic Acid) and retinol together may cause irritation for sensitive skin. Alternate if needed.
Denatured alcohol is the 4th ingredient. At this concentration it acts as a solubilizer and enhancer but may be drying or irritating for those with compromised skin barriers. Those with very dry or reactive skin should monitor closely.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTS3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Activated C) ~1–5%Proven
A stable, oil-soluble ether derivative of Vitamin C that is more chemically stable than pure ascorbic acid (L-AA) and resists oxidation. It penetrates skin rapidly and is converted to ascorbic acid upon absorption, delivering antioxidant and melanin-inhibiting benefits.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, reducing melanin synthesis that causes dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
- Stability advantage: Does not oxidize in the bottle like L-ascorbic acid, meaning the product stays effective longer after opening.
- Clinical data: Studies show 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid visibly reduces UV-induced pigmentation when used consistently at adequate concentrations.
- Kiehl's claim: 49% visible reduction in hyperpigmentation measured in 12-week expert-graded clinical testing.
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~1.25–2.5%Proven
An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin surface and penetrates pores. In this formula it is "buffered," meaning the pH is adjusted to reduce irritation potential while maintaining efficacy for brightening and exfoliation.
- Mechanism: Loosens dead skin cells at the surface and inside pores, promoting cell turnover and reducing the buildup that causes uneven skin tone.
- Brightening: Research demonstrates salicylic acid can visibly improve photodamage, freckles, and melasma appearance in addition to acne.
- Anti-inflammatory: Structurally similar to aspirin; provides soothing properties for irritated or blemish-prone skin.
- FDA recognized: 0.5–2% concentration recognized by FDA as OTC topical acne treatment.
Hydroxypropyl Tetrahydropyrantriol (Proxylane™) ~2–4%Proven
A patented, sugar-derived molecule developed by L'Oréal Research. It mimics the natural sugar-based building blocks of the skin's extracellular matrix, stimulating glycosaminoglycan synthesis to support skin firmness and density.
- Matrix support: Stimulates the production of glycosaminoglycans (including hyaluronic acid precursors) in the dermis.
- Clinical studies: Multiple peer-reviewed studies show it improves skin plumpness, firmness, and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- Synergy: Works alongside Vitamin C to improve overall skin texture and clarity for more uniform tone.
Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract (Peony) ~0.01–0.1%Promising
Extract derived from the root of the tree peony plant. Rich in paeonol and paeoniflorin, it provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect skin against oxidative damage that can contribute to pigmentation.
- Antioxidant: Scavenges free radicals generated by UV exposure, helping prevent oxidative stress-induced pigmentation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Paeoniflorin has demonstrated ability to help calm skin inflammation, which can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Citrus Aurantium Tachibana Peel Extract tracePromising
Extract from the peel of the Tachibana orange, providing flavonoids and vitamin C precursors that contribute to brightening and antioxidant protection of the skin.
- Brightening: Citrus peel extracts contain hesperidin and narirutin flavonoids with melanin-inhibiting properties.
- Antioxidant: Provides additional free radical protection synergistically with Activated C.
Tocopheryl Acetate + Tocopherol (Vitamin E) lowProven
Two forms of Vitamin E — the acetate ester (Tocopheryl Acetate) and free form (Tocopherol). Both provide antioxidant protection and help stabilize the formula, supporting the efficacy of Activated C.
- Synergy with Vitamin C: Vitamins C and E work synergistically — each regenerates the antioxidant capacity of the other.
- Formula stability: Tocopherol helps prevent oxidation of other active ingredients.
24 ingredients
Aqua / Water, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., PEG/PPG/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin, Hydroxypropyl Tetrahydropyrantriol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Phenoxyethanol, Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Potassium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil / Lavender Oil, Disodium EDTA, Adenosine, Linalool, Butylene Glycol, Tocopherol, Citrus Aurantium Tachibana Peel Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizer. Use AM and PM. Always follow with SPF in the morning — Vitamin C and BHA increase photosensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove sunscreen, makeup, and impurities. Pat skin dry — do not rub. A slightly damp face can help the serum spread more evenly.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a toner, apply it first and allow it to absorb fully. Avoid exfoliating toners (AHA/BHA) on the same step — the Salicylic Acid in this serum already provides chemical exfoliation.
Dispense 2–4 Drops
Use the dropper to dispense 2–4 drops onto fingertips or directly onto targeted areas. For full-face use, apply 4–6 drops. For spot treatment, use 1–2 drops directly on the affected area.
Press & Pat into Skin
Using gentle pressing and patting motions, work the serum into skin over the entire face or focused on dark spots, post-acne marks, sun spots, or areas of uneven skin tone. Avoid rubbing — pressing maximizes absorption.
Allow to Absorb (30 seconds)
The lightweight, watery texture absorbs quickly — typically within 30 seconds. There should be no sticky residue. Wait until skin no longer feels wet before applying next products.
Follow with Moisturizer + SPF (AM)
Apply your moisturizer to seal in the treatment. In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen — Vitamin C and BHA increase photosensitivity. Skipping SPF will reverse results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dark spots, sun spots, or age spots
- You struggle with post-acne hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy brightening serum
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin
- You want a hydroquinone-free, retinoid-free alternative
- You prefer a twice-daily treatment (AM + PM)
- Your skin tone falls anywhere on the melanin spectrum
- You're looking for clinically proven brightening results
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Tocopheryl Acetate present)
- You have a severely compromised skin barrier — alcohol may irritate
- You want very dry skin deep hydration as a primary benefit
- You need a prescription-strength lightener (this is OTC)
- You have a known allergy to lavender or linalool
- You prefer fragrance-completely-free products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe lightweight watery-serum texture absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. The BHA content helps keep pores clear. Ideal for humid climates and oily skin types.
Balances well across T-zone and drier cheek areas. Non-greasy formula performs evenly on different zones without emphasizing oiliness or tightness.
Performs as expected — brightening, clarifying, and spot-correcting without disrupting skin balance. Layer easily with any moisturizer and sunscreen.
Effective for brightening but may feel slightly drying due to Alcohol Denat. and BHA. Always follow with a rich moisturizer. Start slowly — every other day — to let skin adjust.
Dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin. Contains buffered (less irritating) Salicylic Acid and less than 1% synthetic fragrance. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.
Particularly well-suited for post-acne marks and PIH. Salicylic Acid treats active blemishes while Activated C fades the resulting dark marks. Comedogenic rating of 1/5.
Results timeline
WEEK 9–12 (FULL BOTTLE)Skin Feels Smoother, Texture Improves
Salicylic Acid begins gently exfoliating the surface. Many users notice a smoother, more refined texture and a subtle brightening effect. Existing blemishes may clear faster. No dramatic change in dark spots yet.
~70% noticed improved textureVisible Brightening Begins
Activated C accumulates in skin, beginning to inhibit tyrosinase and melanin production. Early users report fresh dark spots and post-acne marks starting to fade. Overall complexion looks more radiant and even.
~60% noticed first brightening resultsNoticeable Reduction in Dark Spots
Consistent daily use yields measurable improvement in hyperpigmentation intensity and area. Sun spots from UV damage become lighter. Post-acne marks fade significantly. Skin appears more even-toned and radiant.
~87% saw reduction in post-acne marksMaximum Clinical Results
After completing one 30ml bottle (approximately 12 weeks of twice-daily use), clinical testing showed 97% of users experienced visible reduction in hyperpigmentation and dark spots. 49% saw measured reduction in hyperpigmentation intensity.
97% visible reduction in dark spotsRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight — absorbs in seconds with no residue
- Works both AM and PM — stable Vitamin C derivative won't oxidize
- Multi-tasking: targets dark spots AND provides BHA exfoliation
- Clinically tested on all ethnicities across 47 skin tones
- 97% clinical efficacy rate in 12-week study
- Hydroquinone-free — safer long-term alternative
- Non-greasy — works well under makeup
- Can also be used on hands, neck, and chest
- Elegant dropper bottle allows precise application
Criticized
- Contains Alcohol Denat. — may dry out very dry or sensitized skin
- Lavender oil present — may irritate those with linalool sensitivity
- Requires minimum 8–12 weeks for significant visible results
- Tocopheryl Acetate is not fully fungal acne safe
- Less effective on deep hormonal melasma vs. surface spots
- Premium price point (~$56–60 for 30ml at Sephora/Ulta)
- Glass dropper bottle fragile — not ideal for gym bags
- Vitamin C concentration may be insufficient per some analysis
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses alpha arbutin (a tyrosinase inhibitor similar in mechanism to Vitamin C) plus hyaluronic acid for brightening and hydration. No BHA exfoliation, but significantly cheaper and fungal acne safe. Requires same 8–12 week commitment.
Combines tranexamic acid, niacinamide, kojic acid, and alpha arbutin for a multi-pronged approach to discoloration. No BHA content but may address a wider range of hyperpigmentation types. Fragrance-free bonus.
Uses L-ascorbic acid (pure Vitamin C at 5%) with peptides and Vitamin E. More potent form of Vitamin C but less stable — requires refrigeration and more careful storage. No BHA, but excellent for overall brightening.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The stable Vitamin C derivative (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) extends usable life compared to products with L-ascorbic acid, which can oxidize in as little as 3 months.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F) is ideal. The 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is heat and light stable — refrigeration is not required but can extend potency.
Glass dropper bottle — elegant and precise for controlled dispensing. Note that glass is fragile: avoid dropping. The dropper allows application either directly to skin or to fingertips for patting in.
The 30ml size is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit — carry-on compliant. Glass bottle requires careful packing. The 50ml size must be checked. Note: due to alcohol content, may not ship via some air freight services.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains Salicylic Acid (a BHA), which is generally considered safe at low topical concentrations during pregnancy, but many dermatologists recommend limiting BHA exposure as a precaution. It does NOT contain retinoids, hydroquinone, or oxybenzone — those unsafe-during-pregnancy ingredients are absent. However, lavender oil and alcohol are present. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using this product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you need a completely pregnancy-safe dark spot treatment, look for products containing only Niacinamide, Vitamin C derivatives in verified-safe concentrations, or Azelaic Acid.
Use with caution if you have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E acetate), a fatty acid ester that Malassezia yeast can metabolize and which some FA-safe databases flag as potentially problematic. It does NOT contain polysorbates, ferments, or common fatty acid esters beyond Tocopheryl Acetate. If you have confirmed fungal acne, patch test on a small area first or consult a dermatologist. The formula contains no coconut oil, no high-risk oils, and no flaxseed-related fatty acids.
With Retinol: This serum already contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), so combining with retinol on the same evening can increase the risk of irritation, dryness, and compromised barrier — especially for beginners. Consider alternating nights. With pure L-ascorbic acid Vitamin C serums: Redundant but generally compatible — the Activated C in this formula already provides stable Vitamin C. With AHAs (Glycolic/Lactic Acid): Over-exfoliation risk if combined daily. Use on alternate evenings. With Niacinamide: Fully compatible and synergistic — Niacinamide complements Vitamin C and BHA for multi-pathway brightening.
This serum is officially recommended for all skin types including sensitive skin, and has been dermatologist-tested. It performs best on oily, combination, and normal skin types due to its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture and BHA content that helps regulate oil and clear pores. For dry skin, the Alcohol Denat. content may cause mild dryness — follow up with a rich moisturizer and start every other day. For very sensitive or reactive skin, patch test first as the BHA and alcohol combination can cause initial sensitivity in some users.
Most users report noticing skin texture improvements within 1–2 weeks as the BHA begins exfoliating. Visible brightening typically begins by week 3–4. Maximum results for dark spots and hyperpigmentation occur at the 8–12 week mark — which is approximately when one 30ml bottle is used up (twice daily application). Clinical studies measured significant results at 12 weeks: 97% of subjects saw visible reduction in hyperpigmentation and 49% showed measured reduction in hyperpigmentation intensity. For stubborn melasma or deep post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, results may require longer or adjunct treatments.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Follow the thinnest-to-thickest layering rule: Step 1: Cleanser → Step 2: Toner (optional) → Step 3: This Serum → Step 4: Additional serum/essence if needed → Step 5: Moisturizer → Step 6 (AM only): Sunscreen SPF 30+. Morning use requires sunscreen application afterward — the BHA and Vitamin C components can increase photosensitivity. Evening use is fine and actually allows the Activated C and BHA to work undisturbed overnight.
No — this formula is non-comedogenic with an overall comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low risk). It contains no heavy oils, waxes, or known pore-clogging ingredients. The Salicylic Acid (BHA) in the formula actually helps keep pores clear by exfoliating inside them. Lavender Oil is present in trace amounts and has a comedogenic rating of 2, but its minimal concentration in the formula does not pose a meaningful clogging risk. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Because this formula uses 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (a highly stable Vitamin C ether derivative) rather than pure L-ascorbic acid, it does not oxidize quickly and maintains potency for up to 12 months after opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 30ml bottle used twice daily (4–6 drops per application) will typically last approximately 10–12 weeks — well within the 12-month PAO window.
Verdict: Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution is a well-formulated, multi-tasking brightening serum that earns its status as Kiehl's #1 bestseller. The combination of stable Activated C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), buffered Salicylic Acid, and Proxylane delivers clinically demonstrated results — with 97% of subjects showing visible improvement in dark spots in 12 weeks. The lightweight, watery texture is exceptional for oily and combination skin and works well under makeup and in humid climates. The main trade-offs are the presence of Alcohol Denat. (limiting for very dry skin), the need for consistent 8–12 week commitment, and the premium price relative to volume. It is not the right choice for confirmed fungal acne sufferers or those seeking a completely pregnancy-safe formula without medical clearance. For everyone else — particularly those battling post-acne marks, sun spots, and general hyperpigmentation — this is a highly efficacious, well-tolerated, and aesthetically elegant dark spot corrector backed by real clinical data.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG/PPG/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin
Humectant
|
|