Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion, 1%
Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion, 1%
Product Description
Product overview
By Encube — a prescription-strength topical antibiotic lotion containing 1% clindamycin phosphate (10 mg/mL), formulated to treat acne vulgaris by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes). Unlike alcohol-based clindamycin solutions, this lotion format includes emollients like glycerin and cetearyl alcohol that minimize the dryness and stinging commonly associated with traditional acne antibiotics, making it well-tolerated for daily use on inflamed, breakout-prone skin.
Targets Acne Bacteria
Clindamycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of C. acnes bacteria, halting protein synthesis and reducing the bacterial load that drives inflammatory acne.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTargets Acne Bacteria
Clindamycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit ofC. acnes bacteria, halting protein synthesis and reducing the bacterial load that drives inflammatory acne.
Calms Inflammatory Lesions
Studies show ~65% reduction in inflammatory lesion count after 12 weeks of twice-daily use — particularly effective on red, swollen pimples and pustules.
Lotion vs. Solution
Unlike alcohol-based clindamycin solutions, the lotion vehicle includes glycerin and emollients to reduce the dryness and burning often reported with traditional formulations.
Minimal Systemic Absorption
Less than 0.2% of the topical dose is recovered in urine; serum levels remain extremely low (0–3 ng/mL), keeping the action localized to the skin.
First-Line Acne Treatment
Recognized by the American Academy of Dermatology as a first-line topical option for mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne, typically used alongside benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid.
Spreads Easily
The lotion base spreads more evenly across larger areas (face, chest, back) than gels or solutions, making it practical for body acne as well as facial breakouts.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical clindamycin is FDA Pregnancy Category B — generally considered low-risk, but use only if clearly needed in the first trimester and discuss with your OB/GYN. If applied to the chest while breastfeeding, avoid contact with the infant.
Contains fatty alcohols (cetearyl, isostearyl) and stearic acid that can feed Malassezia yeast. If your "acne" is actually fungal acne, this product may make it worse rather than better.
Combining clindamycin with benzoyl peroxide is the gold standard — BPO prevents bacterial resistance and boosts efficacy. Most dermatologists prescribe them together.
Apply clindamycin in the morning and tretinoin/adapalene at night to reduce irritation. Combination products like Ziana use this exact pairing for proven results.
Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, regional enteritis, or antibiotic-associated colitis. Even topical clindamycin has been linked (rarely) to pseudomembranous colitis fromC. difficile.
Using clindamycin alone (without benzoyl peroxide) for long periods can drive bacterial resistance. Limit antibiotic monotherapy to 3–4 months when possible.
Avoid eyes, mouth, lips, nose, and broken skin. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with cool water.
0.3% methylparaben preservative may be a concern for those avoiding parabens, though it is FDA-approved at this concentration and considered safe for topical use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven
The active antibiotic. A semi-synthetic lincosamide derivative produced by chloro-substitution of lincomycin. Once applied, it's hydrolyzed in vivo to the active form clindamycin, which inhibits bacterial protein synthesis at the 50S ribosomal subunit.
- Mechanism: Bacteriostatic againstC. acnes (formerlyP. acnes) — stops bacterial growth rather than killing outright.
- Clinical evidence: Multiple controlled trials report ~65% reduction in inflammatory lesions after 12 weeks of twice-daily application.
- Comedone penetration: Mean concentration of 597 mcg/g detected in extracted comedones after 4 weeks of use.
- Free fatty acid reduction: Surface FFA levels drop from ~14% to ~2% with consistent use, helping reduce inflammation.
Cetearyl Alcohol 2.5%Proven
A fatty alcohol blend (cetyl + stearyl alcohol) used as an emulsifier and emollient. Despite the word "alcohol," it does NOT dry out skin — it actually softens and helps lock in moisture, which is why the FDA permits "alcohol-free" labeling on products containing it.
- Function: Stabilizes the lotion emulsion, prevents oil/water separation, and gives the product its creamy texture.
- Skin tolerance: Generally non-toxic and non-irritating; widely used in sensitive-skin formulations.
Glycerin ~10–15%Proven
A humectant that draws water from the deeper layers of skin and the air into the stratum corneum. Critical for offsetting the drying effects often seen with topical antibiotics.
- Hydration: Among the most studied and effective humectants in dermatology.
- Barrier support: Helps maintain the skin's water content, reducing transepidermal water loss.
- Non-comedogenic: Rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale — safe for acne-prone skin.
Glyceryl Stearate SE & Potassium Stearate ~3–5%Proven
Self-emulsifying co-emulsifier system that gives the lotion its smooth, easy-to-spread consistency. Glyceryl stearate also has mild emollient properties, helping reinforce the skin barrier during antibiotic treatment.
- Function: Combines water and oil phases into a stable, non-greasy emulsion.
- Skin feel: Provides a soft, conditioned finish without heaviness.
Isostearyl Alcohol 2.5%Proven
A branched-chain fatty alcohol that softens skin and improves spreadability. Helps the lotion glide on without dragging across already-irritated breakouts.
- Emollient action: Forms a thin occlusive layer that locks in hydration.
- Texture: Contributes to the lotion's signature lightweight, non-tacky feel.
Methylparaben 0.3%Proven
The preservative that keeps the formula stable and free from microbial contamination throughout its shelf life. Widely used in pharmaceutical preparations at this concentration.
- Safety profile: FDA-approved and considered safe at concentrations up to 0.4%.
- Function: Prevents bacterial and fungal growth in the bottle, especially important for a multi-use product.
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate ~1%Promising
An amino-acid-derived surfactant that improves the lotion's wetting properties and helps the active ingredient distribute evenly across the skin surface.
- Gentleness: Considered milder than sulfate-based surfactants like SLS.
- Function: Enhances penetration of the clindamycin into the follicle.
Stearic Acid ~2–3%Proven
A naturally occurring fatty acid that thickens the lotion and contributes to its creamy texture. Also acts as a mild emollient.
- Function: Texture builder and co-emulsifier.
- Skin feel: Helps the lotion absorb without leaving a greasy residue.
Water (Purified) ~70–75%Proven
The base solvent for the entire formulation. Unlike clindamycin SOLUTIONS (which use 50% isopropyl alcohol), this lotion is water-based, dramatically reducing the stinging and dryness reported with alcohol-based versions.
- Tolerability advantage: Studies show clindamycin lotion has noticeably better local tolerance than alcohol-based clindamycin solutions.
10 ingredients
Clindamycin Phosphate (1%), Cetearyl Alcohol (2.5%), Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Potassium Stearate, Isostearyl Alcohol (2.5%), Methylparaben (0.3%), Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Stearic Acid, Water (Purified).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply on clean, dry skin BEFORE moisturizer. In the evening, swap benzoyl peroxide for a retinoid (tretinoin/adapalene). Always finish AM routines with SPF 30+ — antibiotics can increase photosensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse and dry skin
Wash with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser. Gently pat the skin completely dry — applying to wet skin can dilute the active and reduce effectiveness.
Shake the bottle well
The lotion is an emulsion that can separate slightly between uses. A few firm shakes ensures the active is evenly distributed in each dose.
Apply a thin film
Dispense a pea-sized amount and spread a THIN layer over the entire affected area — not just individual pimples. Acne is a follicular condition; spot-treating misses developing lesions.
Use twice daily
Once in the morning and once in the evening, as prescribed. Wait 1–2 minutes for absorption before applying other products on top.
Layer with moisturizer + SPF
Always finish with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness, and SPF 30+ in the morning. Topical antibiotics can increase sun sensitivity.
Wash hands after each use
Avoid getting the lotion in your eyes, mouth, or on broken skin. If accidental contact occurs, rinse with cool water immediately.
Be patient — 6 to 8 weeks
Initial improvements appear around weeks 2–4; full results typically take 8–12 weeks. Don't stop early even if skin clears, as your dermatologist may want to taper the antibiotic gradually.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne (red, swollen pimples, pustules)
- You found alcohol-based clindamycin solutions too drying or stinging
- Your dermatologist has prescribed clindamycin and given you a choice of vehicle
- You're treating acne on the chest, back, or other body areas (lotion spreads easily)
- You want a fragrance-free, dye-free, minimalist formula (just 10 ingredients)
- You're combining with benzoyl peroxide or a topical retinoid
- You need a budget-friendly generic alternative to brand names like Cleocin T
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe nodular or cystic acne (oral medication usually needed)
- Your "acne" is actually fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis (this will worsen it)
- You have a history of colitis, Crohn's, or antibiotic-associated diarrhea
- You're allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin
- You have purely comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads only) — retinoids work better
- You strictly avoid parabens (this contains 0.3% methylparaben)
- You want an over-the-counter solution (this requires a prescription)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight lotion absorbs without adding shine; targets the bacterial overgrowth common in oily, acne-prone skin.
Better tolerated than alcohol-based clindamycin solutions thanks to glycerin and emollients, but still pair with a richer moisturizer.
Balances well across both oily T-zone and drier cheeks without over-drying or feeling heavy.
Fragrance-free and dye-free; gentler than gel/solution forms. Patch test first if you've reacted to topical antibiotics before.
First-line dermatologist treatment for red, swollen pimples and pustules — most effective when paired with benzoyl peroxide.
Contains fatty alcohols and stearic acid that feed Malassezia yeast — likely to worsen fungal acne. Get diagnosed first if breakouts are uniform tiny bumps.
Results timeline
3–4 MONTHSInitial Adjustment Period
Skin may feel slightly dry or tight. Some users notice a brief "purge" of clogged pores. No visible reduction in active breakouts yet — this is normal.
35% report mild drynessInflammation Begins to Calm
Red, swollen pimples become noticeably less angry. Bacterial load on the skin surface drops, and existing pustules heal faster. New breakouts may still appear.
62% notice less rednessVisible Reduction in Breakouts
Inflammatory lesion count drops significantly. Studies show roughly 50–65% reduction in pustules and papules at the 8-week mark with twice-daily use.
78% see clearer skinFull Therapeutic Effect
Maximum benefit reached. Most patients achieve significant clearing or sustained control. Post-acne marks (PIH) may still need additional time or ingredients to fade.
~65% inflammatory reduction (clinical avg)Tapering Phase
Most dermatologists recommend transitioning OFF antibiotic monotherapy after 3–4 months to prevent bacterial resistance, continuing maintenance with benzoyl peroxide and/or a retinoid.
Maintenance recommendedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven 60–65% reduction in inflammatory acne lesions over 12 weeks
- Significantly less drying and stinging than alcohol-based clindamycin solutions
- Lightweight, fragrance-free, dye-free formula tolerated by most skin types
- Spreads easily — practical for body acne (chest, back, shoulders)
- FDA-approved generic equivalent of brand-name Cleocin T at a fraction of the cost
- Pairs excellently with benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids
- Pregnancy Category B — relatively safer choice during pregnancy than retinoids
- Minimal systemic absorption (less than 0.2% recovered in urine)
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not available over the counter
- Antibiotic resistance develops with prolonged monotherapy use
- Not safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — can worsen it
- Contains methylparaben (0.3%) — not paraben-free
- Slow results: visible improvement takes 4–8 weeks; full effect 12 weeks
- Rare but serious risk of pseudomembranous colitis (C. diff)
- May cause initial dryness, peeling, or stinging in the first 2 weeks
- Less effective for purely comedonal acne (blackheads/whiteheads)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Identical active ingredient at the same concentration. Different manufacturers (Perrigo, Taro, G&W) use very similar inactive ingredient profiles. Often cheaper with a GoodRx coupon.
The original brand-name version of clindamycin lotion. Same active and very similar formulation, but 4–8× more expensive without insurance. Encube's generic is therapeutically equivalent.
Same active in a gel base. Better for very oily skin or summer climates; the lotion is preferable for dry/sensitive skin. Equally effective in clinical trials.
Same active but in a 50% isopropyl alcohol vehicle — much more drying and likely to sting. Fine for very oily, resilient skin; lotion is gentler.
A different topical antibiotic for acne. Less effective than clindamycin in head-to-head studies due to higher rates of bacterial resistance, but an option if you can't tolerate clindamycin.
Not an antibiotic, but has antibacterial AND anti-inflammatory effects on acne with no resistance risk. Slower-acting but a great long-term alternative — and pregnancy-friendly.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDECleocin T Lotion 1% (Pfizer Brand)
Differin Gel 0.1% (Adapalene — OTC Retinoid)
BenzaClin / Duac (Clindamycin 1% + Benzoyl Peroxide 5%)
Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid (OTC Salicylic Acid)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard any unused medication after the printed expiration date.
Store at controlled room temperature 20°–25°C (68°–77°F). Protect from freezing. Keep tightly closed and away from direct sunlight.
60 mL plastic bottle with screw cap. Shake well immediately before each use to redistribute the active ingredient.
Yes — 60 mL is under the TSA 100 mL liquid limit. Bring the prescription label or a copy of the Rx for international travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical clindamycin is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B, meaning animal studies have not shown harm and human risk is considered low. Clinical trials in the second and third trimesters showed no increase in congenital abnormalities. However, first-trimester data is limited, so it should only be used during early pregnancy if clearly needed. While breastfeeding, it is not known whether topical clindamycin passes into breast milk in significant amounts — but if applied to the chest, take care to prevent infant ingestion. Always consult your OB/GYN before starting any prescription product during pregnancy or lactation.
No — this product is NOT considered fungal acne safe. The formula contains cetearyl alcohol, isostearyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate SE, and stearic acid, all of which are fatty alcohols or fatty-acid derivatives that can feed Malassezia yeast. If your "acne" consists of small, uniform, itchy bumps that don't respond to traditional acne treatment, you may have Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne) rather than bacterial acne — in that case, this product can make the condition worse. Get a proper diagnosis from a dermatologist before starting clindamycin.
Yes, with proper layering. Clindamycin is commonly paired with topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) — apply clindamycin in the morning and the retinoid at night to minimize irritation. With benzoyl peroxide, apply both at the same time or stagger morning/evening; this combination is the gold-standard acne regimen as BPO prevents bacterial resistance. With vitamin C, AHA, or BHA, leave at least 30 minutes between applications to avoid stacking too many actives at once and triggering irritation. Always finish with a non-comedogenic moisturizer and SPF 30+ in the morning.
It works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin with active inflammatory breakouts (red, swollen pimples and pustules). The lotion vehicle — unlike the alcohol-based solution — also makes it tolerable for sensitive and dry skin types, since glycerin and emollients offset the dryness antibiotics can cause. It is NOT ideal for those with comedonal acne only (blackheads/whiteheads), fungal acne, or rosacea, where other treatments are more appropriate.
Initial improvements (less redness, faster pimple healing) typically appear within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Significant reduction in active breakouts usually takes 4–8 weeks. Maximum therapeutic effect — clinical studies cite around a 65% reduction in inflammatory lesions — is reached at 12 weeks. If you see no improvement after 6–8 weeks, consult your dermatologist; the regimen may need adjustment (often by adding benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid).
Apply after cleansing and toning, but BEFORE moisturizer and sunscreen. The order is: gentle cleanser → optional toner → clindamycin lotion (thin film over entire affected area) → wait 1–2 minutes → moisturizer → SPF 30+ in the morning. In the evening, replace SPF with a topical retinoid if your dermatologist has prescribed one. Use twice daily as directed.
It has a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating (around 2/5). Glycerin and the active clindamycin itself are non-comedogenic, but the formula contains cetearyl alcohol, isostearyl alcohol, and stearic acid — all of which can be mildly pore-clogging in very oily, congestion-prone individuals. For most users, the antibacterial benefit far outweighs any pore-clogging risk. If you find your blackheads worsening, the gel or solution form may suit you better than the lotion.
Once opened, use within 12 months and always discard by the printed expiration date. Store at room temperature (68°–77°F / 20°–25°C), protected from freezing and direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses, and shake well before every application — the lotion is an emulsion that can separate slightly. Do not transfer to other containers, and do not use if the consistency, color, or smell has noticeably changed.
Verdict: Encube's Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Lotion 1% is a clinically proven, dermatologist-recommended prescription treatment for mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne. The lotion vehicle delivers the same therapeutic outcomes as brand-name Cleocin T at a fraction of the cost, while being noticeably gentler than alcohol-based clindamycin solutions. It excels for oily, combination, and inflammatory acne-prone skin, especially when paired with benzoyl peroxide to prevent bacterial resistance. Drawbacks include slow visible results (8–12 weeks for full effect), unsuitability for fungal acne, and the need to taper off after 3–4 months. Not the right choice for purely comedonal acne or those who need OTC options — but for inflammatory breakouts, it remains a reliable, evidence-based first-line therapy backed by decades of 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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Clindamycin Phosphate
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Stearate
Cleansing, Emulsifying
|
|