Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution
Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength topical antibiotic solution containing 1% Clindamycin Phosphate — clinically proven to fight acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes), reduce inflammation, and clear active breakouts. With only 5 clean pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, this oil-free, fragrance-free, and fungal-acne-safe solution is one of the most minimal and effective topical antibiotics available for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris.
Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria
Clindamycin phosphate is bacteriostatic against Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the bacteria primarily responsible for inflammatory acne lesions.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne-Causing Bacteria
Clindamycin phosphate is bacteriostatic against Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the bacteria primarily responsible for inflammatory acne lesions.
Reduces Redness & Inflammation
Beyond antibacterial action, topical clindamycin provides meaningful anti-inflammatory benefits, helping active pimples calm down faster and appear less red.
Minimal, Pharmaceutical-Grade Formula
Only 5 ingredients — no fillers, no fragrance, no oils, no comedogenic components. One of the cleanest topical antibiotic formulations available.
Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe
Contains zero fatty acids, ferments, esters, or polysorbates. Completely safe for fungal acne-prone skin types who struggle with most conventional acne treatments.
Oil-Free & Non-Comedogenic
The water-based and alcohol-based formulation contains no pore-clogging oils. Rates a perfect 0/5 on the comedogenic scale — ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
Clinically Established & FDA-Approved
Clindamycin 1% topical solution has decades of clinical data supporting its efficacy for acne vulgaris. A dermatologist first-line recommendation globally.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution during pregnancy — only if prescribed by a physician. Systemic clindamycin in the second and third trimesters has not shown increased congenital abnormalities, but topical absorption is possible. Always consult your OB-GYN before use.
Not confirmed safe during breastfeeding. Oral clindamycin is known to pass into breast milk; it is unknown whether topical application results in significant milk transfer. Consult your doctor before use while nursing.
100% safe for fungal acne. The formula contains no fatty acids, fermented ingredients, esters, polysorbates, or Malassezia food sources. Appropriate for those who break out from many conventional acne products.
Rates zero on the comedogenic scale. No oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients of any kind. Will not block pores or contribute to blackheads or comedonal acne.
Does not contain any retinoids or retinol. Safe to layer with topical retinoids such as tretinoin or adapalene — in fact, combining with a retinoid is a common and effective dermatologist-recommended protocol.
Does not contain salicylic acid, AHAs, BHAs, or hydroquinone. No exfoliating acids in the formula, making it suitable for sensitive skin and safe to layer with separate acid-based treatments.
Long-term use of topical antibiotics alone can contribute to antibiotic resistance in C. acnes. Dermatologists strongly recommend pairing with benzoyl peroxide (BPO) to prevent resistance development. Do not use indefinitely without physician oversight.
Contraindicated in people with a history of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis (including C. difficile). Even topical use can result in systemic absorption and rare GI side effects such as diarrhea or colitis.
Contains 50% isopropyl alcohol, which may cause dryness, irritation, or stinging, especially on broken skin, eczema, or rosacea-prone complexions. Start with once-daily use to assess tolerance before applying twice daily.
This is a prescription medication. Glasshouse Pharmaceuticals Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution is not available over the counter. A valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is required for legal dispensing and use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClindamycin Phosphate 1% (10 mg/mL)Proven
The star active ingredient. Clindamycin phosphate is a water-soluble, semi-synthetic antibiotic derived from lincomycin. Although inactive in its phosphate form in vitro, it undergoes rapid enzymatic hydrolysis on skin to release free clindamycin — the antibacterially active compound. It works by binding to the 23S RNA of the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis and stopping C. acnes from reproducing.
- Mechanism: Bacteriostatic — inhibits bacterial protein synthesis via 50S ribosomal binding
- Target: Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) — the primary acne-causing bacterium
- Comedonal penetration: Mean antibiotic concentration in comedones after 4 weeks was 597 mcg/g (range 0–1490 mcg/g)
- Systemic absorption: Very low — serum levels of 0–3 ng/mL after multiple topical applications; less than 0.2% recovered in urine
- Clinical studies: Demonstrated efficacy across 18 clinical trials in various formulations against placebo and active comparators
- Additional benefit: Provides anti-inflammatory activity independent of direct antibacterial action
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) 50% v/vVehicle
The primary solvent and vehicle carrying clindamycin phosphate into the skin. At 50% concentration, IPA serves multiple roles: it dissolves the active ingredient, accelerates penetration through the stratum corneum, and provides rapid evaporation that leaves a dry, matte finish. IPA also imparts mild antimicrobial surface-cleansing properties.
- Role: Primary solvent and penetration enhancer for clindamycin phosphate
- Evaporation: Rapid evaporation provides the signature quick-dry matte finish
- Drawback: High alcohol content can disrupt the skin barrier and cause dryness or irritation with extended use
Propylene Glycol Low concentrationHumectant
A small-molecule humectant that draws moisture into the skin and helps counterbalance the drying effects of isopropyl alcohol. Propylene glycol also acts as a co-solvent helping to keep the active ingredient dissolved and stable in solution. It extends the product's shelf life through mild antimicrobial properties and prevents the formulation from freezing or melting under temperature fluctuations.
- Role: Humectant, co-solvent, and formulation stabilizer
- Safety: Generally recognized as safe in cosmetic and pharmaceutical concentrations; rarely causes contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- Benefit: Partially offsets IPA-related dryness by retaining some skin moisture
Purified Water (Aqua) ExcipientVehicle
High-purity pharmaceutical-grade water serves as the aqueous vehicle of the formulation, providing the base in which all other ingredients are dissolved. Purified water ensures the pH stability and sterility required for a prescription pharmaceutical product.
- Role: Aqueous solvent base for the solution
- Grade: Pharmaceutical purified water — free from contaminants, minerals, and microorganisms
- Function: Supports pH buffering and formulation homogeneity
Sodium Hydroxide pH adjusterStabilizer
Used in trace amounts to adjust and maintain the solution's pH between 4.0 and 7.0. This pH range is critical to ensure clindamycin phosphate remains chemically stable, microbiologically safe, and optimally bioavailable on the skin's surface. Without pH adjustment, the active ingredient could degrade or be less effective.
- Role: pH adjuster to maintain the formulation at pH 4.0–7.0
- Safety: Used in trace (micro) amounts only — completely safe at these concentrations per FDA and global regulatory standards
- Importance: Ensures the stability and efficacy of clindamycin phosphate throughout shelf life
5 ingredients
Isopropyl Alcohol (50% v/v), Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Clindamycin Phosphate (1% / 10 mg/mL), Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, dry skin before serums and moisturizers. Wait 5–10 minutes before the next step to allow the solution to fully dry. Apply benzoyl peroxide at a separate time of day (e.g., AM vs PM) to prevent interaction and reduce resistance risk.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry Thoroughly
Wash your face with a mild, non-irritating cleanser and pat completely dry. Ensure skin is fully dry before applying — avoid applying immediately after washing or shaving as the alcohol base can cause significant stinging on wet or freshly shaved skin. Wait at least 30 minutes post-shave.
Apply a Thin Film to Affected Areas
Dispense a small amount of the solution and apply a thin, even film to the entire affected acne-prone area — not just individual spots. If using the applicator tip, use a gentle dabbing motion rather than rolling to avoid dragging the liquid. Apply to the whole zone (e.g., entire face if treating facial acne) for best results.
Allow to Dry Fully (2–5 Minutes)
The high alcohol content means the solution evaporates quickly. Wait until the treated area is completely dry (no tacky feeling) before applying any other skincare product. This prevents dilution of the active ingredient and ensures optimal absorption.
Apply Moisturizer to Combat Dryness
The 50% isopropyl alcohol content can cause dryness and tightness. Always follow with a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizer to maintain the skin barrier. Choose a lightweight gel moisturizer for oily skin, or a gentle cream for dry/combination skin types.
Use Twice Daily (AM & PM) as Directed
Standard prescribing is twice daily — once in the morning and once at night. To minimize antibiotic resistance, apply benzoyl peroxide at a different time of day from clindamycin. Follow your dermatologist's specific instructions regarding frequency and duration of use.
Continue for the Full Duration Prescribed
Improvement typically begins at 4–8 weeks, with full results at 8–12 weeks. Do not stop early even if skin looks clearer — stopping prematurely allows resistant bacteria to repopulate. Use only for the duration prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne (red, swollen pimples)
- You've been prescribed this by a dermatologist or physician
- You have oily or acne-prone skin and want a non-greasy, fast-drying treatment
- You are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) alongside bacterial acne
- You need an antibiotic treatment but want minimal, clean ingredients
- You want to pair a topical antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid for a comprehensive routine
- You prefer a matte finish with no residue or film
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe, nodulocystic acne (may require oral antibiotics or isotretinoin)
- You have only comedonal (non-inflammatory) acne — retinoids work better
- You have extremely dry or eczema-prone skin sensitive to alcohol
- You have a history of colitis, Crohn's disease, or antibiotic-associated GI issues
- You are allergic to clindamycin or lincomycin
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You do not have a prescription and cannot access one
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin types. The alcohol-based formulation absorbs almost instantly, leaves zero residue, and delivers a clean matte finish without adding any greasiness. Works synergistically with oil control routines.
Designed specifically for acne-prone skin. Kills C. acnes bacteria, reduces inflammation, and is non-comedogenic (0/5). A dermatologist go-to for mild-to-moderate inflammatory breakouts.
Works well on combination skin. The solution targets acne zones effectively while leaving non-oily areas alone. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer on drier areas to manage potential alcohol-related dryness.
Use with caution. The 50% isopropyl alcohol can cause stinging, redness, and irritation in sensitive skin types. Patch test and start with once-daily application. Not recommended for rosacea-prone or eczema-prone skin without dermatologist guidance.
Can be used on dry skin with care. High alcohol content will exacerbate dryness and potential flaking. A rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer applied immediately after the solution dries is essential to maintain skin comfort and barrier integrity.
One of very few prescription acne treatments that is completely fungal-acne safe. Contains none of the ingredients (fatty acids, esters, ferments, polysorbates) that feed Malassezia yeast, making it safe for those who break out from conventional acne treatments.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSInitial Anti-Inflammatory Effect
Many users report visible reduction in redness and swelling of existing inflammatory lesions within the first few days. The antibacterial action begins immediately — clindamycin starts inhibiting C. acnes protein synthesis from the first application. Do not expect full clearance at this stage.
~45% noticed improvementReduction in Active Breakouts
New inflammatory pimples begin to appear less frequently as bacterial load decreases. Existing lesions may heal faster. Some users may experience a mild adjustment period with initial increase in dryness or minor irritation before the skin adapts. Consistency is key at this stage.
~60% noticed improvementMeaningful Clearance
Most users see significant improvement in both the number of lesions and overall skin texture by week 6–8. The comedonal environment changes as C. acnes population is suppressed. Best results seen when paired with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid as prescribed.
~68% reported positive experienceFull Therapeutic Benefit
Complete assessment of efficacy should be made at 8–12 weeks. Clinical guidelines and dermatologists consider this the benchmark period for evaluating topical antibiotic response. If insufficient improvement is seen, your provider may adjust the treatment plan (add or switch agents).
~75% achieved clear or mostly clear skinMaintenance & Resistance Management
Long-term use beyond 3 months without a resistance-prevention agent (BPO) increases resistance risk. Discuss with your dermatologist about transitioning to maintenance therapy — typically switching to a retinoid monotherapy or BPO maintenance after achieving clearance.
Best results with paired BPO therapyRatings by platform
483+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only 5 clean pharmaceutical-grade ingredients
- Fast-absorbing, leaves no residue or sticky feel
- Genuinely effective for inflammatory acne (68% positive reviews)
- Fungal acne safe — no fatty acids or Malassezia triggers
- Oil-free, 0/5 comedogenic — safe for oily and acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free
- Decades of clinical evidence and global dermatologist trust
- Works synergistically with retinoids and benzoyl peroxide
- Visible reduction in redness within days for many users
- Available in practical 30 mL and 60 mL applicator bottles
Criticized
- 50% isopropyl alcohol causes significant dryness for many users
- Prescription-only — requires a doctor visit to access
- Antibiotic resistance risk with prolonged monotherapy use
- Mild alcohol scent during application
- Less effective for non-inflammatory (comedonal) acne only
- Some users report skin oiliness rebound after extended use
- Contraindicated in GI history (colitis, Crohn's disease)
- Not safe for direct use around the eyes — causes burning
- Results can plateau after 3+ months without complementary treatment
- Must continue consistently — acne can return if stopped prematurely
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The most direct pharmaceutical equivalent — identical active ingredient at 1%, identical vehicle formulation (IPA 50%, propylene glycol, water, NaOH). Bioequivalent to Cleocin T and Glasshouse's formulation. Widely available as a generic; ask your pharmacist for the generic option to reduce cost.
Same active ingredient at 1% but in a lotion base — more hydrating and gentler on the skin barrier due to the addition of glycerin and other emollients. Better for dry or sensitive skin types who find the alcohol-heavy solution too drying. Contains some comedogenic-rated ingredients (glyceryl stearate, cetearyl alcohol) making it less suitable for very oily, acne-prone skin.
The original branded reference product that Glasshouse Pharmaceuticals' solution is bioequivalent to. Cleocin T features the same 5-ingredient formulation (clindamycin 1%, IPA 50%, propylene glycol, water, sodium hydroxide). Clinically identical in efficacy and safety. The Glasshouse generic offers the same results at a significantly lower cost.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Differin (Adapalene 0.1% Gel) – Retinoid Alternative
Cabtreo (Clindamycin 1.2% + Ivermectin 0.15% + Adapalene 0.15%)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Keep container tightly closed when not in use to prevent evaporation of the isopropyl alcohol base and degradation of the active ingredient.
Store at controlled room temperature 20–25°C (68–77°F). Protect from freezing — freezing may destabilize the formulation and alter the pH balance needed for clindamycin efficacy.
Applicator bottle with precision tip (30 mL or 60 mL). The applicator tip dispenses controlled amounts for targeted or full-face application using a dabbing motion — do not roll the applicator tip across skin.
Yes — the 30 mL bottle is TSA-compliant (under 100 mL) and can be carried in your hand luggage. Keep upright and tightly capped during travel to prevent leakage of the alcohol-based solution.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy — only if clearly prescribed and deemed necessary by your healthcare provider. Systemic clindamycin administered during the second and third trimesters has not been associated with an increased frequency of congenital abnormalities in clinical trials. However, topical application can result in some systemic absorption through the skin. It is not known with certainty whether topically absorbed clindamycin passes into breast milk in significant amounts, though oral forms are known to do so. Always consult your OB-GYN or midwife before using any prescription topical antibiotic during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Yes — this is one of the most fungal-acne-safe prescription acne treatments available. The Glasshouse Pharmaceuticals formulation contains only 5 ingredients: isopropyl alcohol, water, propylene glycol, clindamycin phosphate, and sodium hydroxide. None of these ingredients are fatty acids, fermented ingredients, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Clindamycin itself is an antibacterial antibiotic — it does not disrupt or worsen fungal conditions. If you suffer from pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne) alongside bacterial acne, this topical solution is a safe prescription option to discuss with your dermatologist.
Clindamycin 1% solution can be combined with retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, retinol) — in fact, this is a frequently prescribed combination as retinoids address comedonal acne while clindamycin targets inflammatory lesions. Apply them at different times (e.g., clindamycin in the morning, retinoid at night) to minimize irritation. Combining clindamycin with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is generally fine, as they address different concerns. With AHAs and BHAs: layering multiple actives increases irritation risk given the already high alcohol content. If using chemical exfoliants, apply them at a separate time and start slowly. Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is the most recommended combination partner — always apply BPO and clindamycin at different times of day to prevent potential inactivation and to protect against antibiotic resistance.
This solution is best suited for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types with inflammatory acne (red, swollen pimples). The alcohol-based, oil-free formulation is ideal for oily skin — it absorbs instantly, leaves a matte finish, and does not add grease or clog pores (comedogenic rating: 0/5). It is also excellent for those prone to fungal acne alongside bacterial acne. It is less ideal for dry skin or sensitive skin types due to the high 50% isopropyl alcohol content, which can cause dryness, tightness, and stinging. Dry-skinned users should follow immediately with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer and may wish to use it once daily rather than twice until tolerance builds.
Most users notice initial improvement — particularly in redness and swelling of existing pimples — within the first 1–2 weeks. Meaningful reduction in the number of breakouts typically becomes evident between weeks 4 and 6 with consistent twice-daily application. Full therapeutic benefit is generally assessed at 8–12 weeks, which is the clinical standard for evaluating topical antibiotic efficacy. According to Mayo Clinic guidance and clinical literature, if no improvement is seen after 6 weeks, or if acne worsens, consult your dermatologist to reassess your treatment plan. Consistency is critical — missing applications significantly reduces efficacy.
Apply Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, before serums and moisturizers. The correct order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Clindamycin Solution → Wait 5–10 minutes for full drying → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). The solution should always be applied to clean, dry skin. Do not apply other products on top until the solution is fully dry. If you use benzoyl peroxide, apply it at a completely different time of day (e.g., clindamycin in the PM, BPO in the AM) to avoid potential interaction and to reduce antibiotic resistance development.
No — this product is non-comedogenic and rates 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. None of its 5 ingredients (isopropyl alcohol, water, propylene glycol, clindamycin phosphate, sodium hydroxide) are known to clog pores. The formula contains no oils, waxes, fatty acids, silicones, or any other ingredients associated with pore blockage. In fact, the 50% isopropyl alcohol base is well-known for its de-greasing, pore-clarifying properties. This makes the solution an appropriate choice for acne-prone skin where pore-clogging is a significant concern.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution USP 1% is 12 months. Store at controlled room temperature of 20–25°C (68–77°F) and protect from freezing. Always keep the applicator cap tightly closed when not in use to prevent evaporation of the isopropyl alcohol vehicle and potential concentration changes or contamination. The 30 mL bottle provides approximately a 1-month supply when used twice daily as directed, so the full bottle will typically be used well within its PAO window. The 60 mL bottle provides approximately a 2-month supply. Discard if the solution changes color, develops unusual particles, or smells different from normal.
Verdict: Glasshouse Pharmaceuticals Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution USP 1% is aclinically proven, pharmaceutical-grade prescription antibiotic that delivers real results for mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne. Its standout strength lies in its exceptional formulation purity — just 5 ingredients, zero pore-cloggers, zero fungal-acne triggers, and zero fragrance. For oily and acne-prone skin types, it is among the cleanest, most effective topical antibiotic options on the market. The high isopropyl alcohol content (50%) makes it drying for sensitive and dry skin types, and antibiotic resistance risk means it should always be paired with benzoyl peroxide rather than used as monotherapy. When used correctly as part of a dermatologist-supervised routine — particularly combined with BPO or a retinoid — it is a powerfully effective tool in the fight against acne with decades of clinical evidence to back it up.
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
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Isopropyl Alcohol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Antifoaming Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|