Clotrimazole Cream 1%
Clotrimazole Cream 1%
Product Description
Product overview
Taro Clotrimazole Cream USP 1% is a clinically proven, broad-spectrum antifungal treatment formulated to eliminate athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and related fungal skin infections. With a pharmaceutical-grade vanishing cream base, it absorbs quickly without a greasy residue, delivering targeted relief from itching, burning, scaling, and cracking associated with fungal conditions.
Broad-Spectrum Antifungal
Clotrimazole 1% inhibits fungal ergosterol synthesis, effectively treating dermatophytes, Candida species, and Malassezia furfur — the organism linked to fungal acne and tinea versicolor.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad-Spectrum Antifungal
Clotrimazole 1% inhibits fungal ergosterol synthesis, effectively treating dermatophytes, Candida species, and Malassezia furfur — the organism linked to fungal acne and tinea versicolor.
Pharmaceutical-Grade Vanishing Base
The specially formulated cream base "vanishes" into skin on contact, delivering the active ingredient efficiently without leaving a white cast or heavy residue behind.
Clinically Proven Efficacy
FDA-approved OTC antifungal with documented efficacy across athlete's foot (4 weeks), ringworm (4 weeks), and jock itch (2 weeks) at twice-daily application.
Minimal Ingredient Formula
Only 7 ingredients — a lean, pharmaceutical formulation that minimizes unnecessary fillers, fragrance, parabens, dyes, and potential irritants.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEClotrimazole topical is assigned FDA Pregnancy Category B. Clinical trials in second and third trimester showed no fetal harm. Systemic absorption from topical use is minimal. Widely considered safe throughout pregnancy. Avoid use in the first trimester unless clearly necessary.
Topical clotrimazole is not expected to result in significant maternal systemic absorption, posing little risk to nursing infants. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine approves topical clotrimazole for nipple/breast candidiasis. Wash hands after application and avoid baby contact with treated areas.
This formula contains Polysorbate 60 and Sorbitan Stearate — both esters that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). Do not apply to acne-prone facial skin.
Cetearyl Alcohol (cetostearyl alcohol) and Cetyl Esters Wax both carry a comedogenic rating of 2–3. Not recommended for facial use or acne-prone skin. This is a body/foot antifungal treatment, not a facial product.
No chemical interactions with retinol, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), AHAs, or BHAs when used on separate body areas. This cream is intended for fungal-affected body skin, not the face.
Not for ophthalmic use. Not effective on scalp or nails. Keep away from eyes and mucous membranes. Discontinue if excessive irritation, redness, or blistering occurs and consult a healthcare provider.
Contains no topical corticosteroids or antibiotics. Pure antifungal action without the thinning effects of corticosteroids or antibiotic resistance concerns.
Free of the top 11 most common skin allergens per Mayo Clinic Research. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, lanolin-free, nickel-free, gluten-free, soy-free, propylene glycol-free.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSClotrimazole 1%Proven
The active ingredient and star of this formulation. Clotrimazole is a synthetic imidazole antifungal that works by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis in fungal cell membranes, causing the membrane to become permeable and the fungal cell to die (fungistatic at low concentrations, fungicidal at higher). It targets a broad spectrum including Trichophyton rubrum, Candida albicans, and Malassezia furfur.
- Mechanism: Blocks lanosterol 14α-demethylase enzyme, depleting ergosterol from fungal cell membranes
- Spectrum: Dermatophytes (T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes), Candida spp., Malassezia furfur, Epidermophyton floccosum
- Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption from topical application; primarily acts locally
- Approved Uses: Athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm (tinea corporis), cutaneous candidiasis
- Concentration: 10 mg per gram (1%) — FDA-approved OTC concentration
Cetostearyl Alcohol (Cetearyl Alcohol) excipientProven
A fatty alcohol blend (cetyl + stearyl alcohols) used as an emollient and emulsion stabilizer. Unlike drying alcohols (ethanol), cetearyl alcohol conditions skin, provides a smooth texture, and helps the cream spread evenly. It is the structural backbone of this vanishing cream base.
- Function: Emollient, emulsifying agent, viscosity controller
- Skin Feel: Imparts creamy, non-greasy texture; aids spreadability
- Comedogenic Rating: 2–3/5 — moderate pore-clogging potential
- Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS); well-tolerated by most skin types
Cetyl Esters Wax (Candelilla Wax Esters / Synthetic Spermaceti) excipientProven
A waxy emollient composed of cetyl palmitate and related esters, historically used in pharmaceutical creams to build body and structure. It provides the characteristic smooth, velvety texture of this vanishing cream and helps it melt on contact with skin warmth.
- Function: Emollient wax, texture builder, skin-feel modifier
- Origin: Synthetic ester wax (palmitate esters); cruelty-free alternative to spermaceti
- Comedogenic Rating: 2/5 — mild pore-clogging potential
- Pharmaceutical Use: Standard excipient in USP antifungal cream formulations
2-Octyldodecanol excipientProven
A branched-chain fatty alcohol used as an emollient and solvent. It enhances the spreading characteristics of the cream and helps dissolve the active ingredient clotrimazole into the base uniformly. It has a low irritancy profile and is well-tolerated.
- Function: Emollient, solubilizer for clotrimazole, texture modifier
- Skin Feel: Light, non-greasy; improves cream spreadability
- Comedogenic Rating: 3/5 — moderate; may clog pores on facial skin
- Safety: Well-established pharmaceutical excipient with low sensitization potential
Polysorbate 60 excipientProven
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier that keeps oil and water phases blended in the cream, preventing separation. It improves product stability and helps distribute the active ingredient evenly throughout the formula. Polysorbate 60 is derived from sorbitol and fatty acids.
- Function: Emulsifier, surfactant, solubilizer
- Stability: Maintains homogeneous emulsion throughout product shelf life
- Malassezia Safety: NOT safe — polysorbates are fatty acid esters that can feed Malassezia yeast
- Comedogenic Rating: 3/5 — moderate
Sorbitan Stearate (Sorbitan Monostearate) excipientProven
A co-emulsifier (the lipophilic counterpart to Polysorbate 60) that works alongside polysorbate to create and stabilize the oil-in-water emulsion of this cream. It is an ester of sorbitol and stearic acid and imparts smooth, uniform application.
- Function: Co-emulsifier (lipophilic), cream stabilizer
- Paired with: Polysorbate 60 in classic HLB-balanced emulsification system
- Malassezia Safety: NOT safe — stearic acid ester can feed Malassezia
- Comedogenic Rating: 3/5 — moderate pore-clogging potential
Benzyl Alcohol 1%Proven
A pharmaceutical-grade preservative used at 1% concentration to prevent microbial contamination of the cream during its shelf life. It is an aromatic alcohol (distinct from drying fatty alcohols) that functions as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative and also provides mild local anesthetic properties that may contribute to itch relief.
- Function: Preservative, antimicrobial agent
- Concentration: 1% — standard pharmaceutical preservative level
- Safety: Considered safe at concentrations up to 5% by dermatological standards
- Note: Not a fragrance alcohol; distinct from ethanol/denatured alcohol
7 ingredients · Active + 6 Inactive
Active: Clotrimazole 1% (10 mg/g)
Inactive: Benzyl Alcohol (1%), Cetostearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Esters Wax, 2-Octyldodecanol, Polysorbate 60, Purified Water, Sorbitan Monostearate
Ingredients listed per official FDA label (NDC 51672-2002). Also known as: Cetearyl Alcohol = Cetostearyl Alcohol · Cetyl Esters Wax = Synthetic Spermaceti / Candelilla Wax Esters · Sorbitan Monostearate = Sorbitan Stearate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply a thin layer to the affected area and surrounding skin twice daily (morning and evening). For athlete's foot, use for 4 weeks. For jock itch, use for 2 weeks. For ringworm, use for 4 weeks. Continue full course even if symptoms improve early.
How to use
HOW TO USEOpen the Tube
Unscrew the cap and use the pointed end of the cap to puncture the inner foil seal before first use. This ensures tamper-evident integrity.
Cleanse and Dry the Affected Area
Wash the infected skin with mild soap and water. Pat completely dry — fungi thrive in moist environments, so thorough drying is critical for treatment success.
Apply a Thin Layer
Gently massage a thin layer of cream into the affected area and the surrounding 1-inch margin of healthy skin. For athlete's foot, pay special attention to spaces between toes.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and evening (every 12 hours) for best results. Do not apply more than directed — more cream does not mean faster results.
Complete the Full Course
Athlete's foot and ringworm: use daily for 4 weeks. Jock itch: use daily for 2 weeks. Do not stop treatment early when symptoms improve — incomplete treatment leads to relapse. Consult a doctor if no improvement after the full course.
Supportive Hygiene
For athlete's foot: wear well-fitting, ventilated shoes and change socks daily. For jock itch: keep the groin area clean and dry; wear loose-fitting underwear. Wash hands thoroughly after each application.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have athlete's foot, jock itch, or ringworm
- You need an affordable, proven OTC antifungal
- You are pregnant and need a safe antifungal option
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas
- You want a non-greasy, fast-absorbing cream
- You are breastfeeding and need topical antifungal treatment
- You need treatment for tinea versicolor on the body
- You have sensitive skin prone to fragrance reactions
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) on your face — the emulsifiers feed Malassezia
- You want treatment for nail fungus — not effective on nails
- You want treatment for scalp fungus — not effective on scalp
- You need a faster treatment — terbinafine (Lamisil) may work in less time for athlete's foot
- You have severe or deep skin infections requiring oral antifungal therapy
- You have known hypersensitivity to imidazole antifungals
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSmooth vanishing cream base absorbs well on normal body skin. Effective antifungal treatment with minimal irritation risk.
Cetearyl alcohol and cetyl esters wax provide mild emollient benefit. The cream adds a small degree of moisture to dry, cracked skin around fungal infections.
Non-greasy finish makes it well-tolerated on oily body skin. However, the moderate comedogenic rating means it is not ideal for oily, acne-prone facial skin.
Fragrance-free formula is well-tolerated by most sensitive skin types. Benzyl alcohol at 1% may very rarely cause mild irritation — patch test first if highly reactive.
NOT recommended for acne-prone facial skin. Polysorbate 60, sorbitan stearate, and cetearyl alcohol carry moderate comedogenic ratings and Malassezia-feeding potential. Suitable for body use only.
Despite the antifungal active, the base contains Polysorbate 60 and Sorbitan Stearate — known Malassezia feeders. Not suitable for fungal acne-prone facial or chest skin.
Results timeline
AFTER TREATMENTInitial Itch & Burning Relief
Clotrimazole begins inhibiting fungal growth from the first application. Many users notice a reduction in itching and burning sensations within the first few days as fungal activity is suppressed.
~60% noticed relief within 3 daysVisible Improvement in Redness & Scaling
Redness, flaking, and peeling typically begin to resolve as the fungal population diminishes. Jock itch (tinea cruris) may show significant improvement by the end of week 2.
~75% see visible improvement by week 2Full Clearance of Infection
Complete resolution of athlete's foot and ringworm typically requires the full 4-week course. Skin texture, color, and integrity return to normal as the fungal infection is eliminated.
~85% clear by week 4 with consistent usePrevention of Recurrence
Completing the full course — even after symptoms resolve — is critical to prevent relapse. Good hygiene practices (dry feet, clean socks, breathable footwear) help prevent re-infection.
~70% remain clear at 8 weeks with good hygieneRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven FDA-approved antifungal active
- Completely fragrance-free formula
- No parabens, dyes, lanolin, gluten, or SLS
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe (Category B)
- Non-greasy vanishing cream texture
- Very affordable — often $5–10 per tube
- Broad-spectrum — treats multiple fungal conditions
- Minimal 7-ingredient formula
- Tamper-evident seal for safety
- Available OTC without prescription (1 oz)
Criticized
- Contains Polysorbate 60 — NOT fungal acne safe
- Moderate comedogenic rating (3/5) — not for face
- Requires 4-week treatment for athlete's foot and ringworm
- Not effective on nail or scalp fungus
- Fungistatic (inhibits growth) vs. fungicidal (kills fungus) — terbinafine may clear faster
- Benzyl alcohol may irritate very sensitive skin in rare cases
- Small tube sizes may require multiple purchases for full treatment
- Not for ophthalmic use — cannot treat eyelid fungal infections
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical formulation with the same 1% clotrimazole active. Same USP-grade inactive ingredient base. Available in 1 oz tube at most pharmacies. Excellent value alternative to Taro at a lower price point.
Another direct generic equivalent with Clotrimazole 1% USP. Same active ingredient, similar vanishing cream excipient base. Available OTC at major retailers. Virtually interchangeable with Taro for body fungal infections.
The original brand-name clotrimazole cream. Same 1% clotrimazole active — Taro is essentially a generic version. Lotrimin may have slightly different inactive ingredients and better brand recognition, but Taro provides equivalent clinical efficacy at a lower cost.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Lamisil AT Cream (Terbinafine 1%)
Lotrimin Ultra (Butenafine 1%)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the expiration date printed on the tube — do not use after the expiry date.
Store at 20°–25°C (68°–77°F) [USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Avoid excessive heat and freezing. Keep tube tightly capped when not in use.
Collapsible aluminum or plastic tube with tamper-evident foil inner seal. Available in 15 g, 30 g, 45 g, and 90 g (2 × 45 g) sizes.
Yes — 1 oz (30 g) tube is under the 100 ml / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on liquid limit. Fits in quart-size bag for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — clotrimazole topical is assigned FDA Pregnancy Category B, meaning animal studies showed no fetal harm and clinical trials in the second and third trimesters did not associate it with fetal risk. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Most healthcare providers consider it safe throughout pregnancy, with extra caution in the first trimester. For breastfeeding, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine approves topical clotrimazole even for nipple/areola thrush treatment. Wash hands after applying and prevent baby contact with treated skin areas. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No — despite clotrimazole itself being active against Malassezia furfur, this specific formulation contains Polysorbate 60 and Sorbitan Monostearate (Sorbitan Stearate) — both fatty acid esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Applying this product to fungal acne-prone facial or chest skin may worsen pityrosporum folliculitis. This is a body antifungal treatment and should not be used as a facial fungal acne remedy. For fungal acne on the face, look for formulations using only Malassezia-safe emulsifiers.
Yes — there are no known direct chemical interactions between topical clotrimazole and retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (lactic acid, glycolic acid), or BHAs (salicylic acid). However, this cream is a body/foot antifungal treatment and is not intended for facial use. If you are using retinoids or exfoliating acids on infected body skin, apply them at separate times (e.g., clotrimazole in the morning, retinol at night) and avoid applying them on the same broken or irritated skin areas simultaneously to minimize irritation risk.
This cream is suitable for normal, dry, and oily body skin types. It works well for most skin types on the body (feet, groin, torso). However, it is NOT recommended for acne-prone or fungal acne-prone facial skin due to its moderate comedogenic rating (3/5) and the presence of Malassezia-feeding emulsifiers (Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Stearate). It is fragrance-free and free from common allergens, making it well-tolerated by most sensitive skin types for body use.
Most users notice a reduction in itching and burning within 3–7 days of starting treatment. However, visible clearing of the skin (resolution of redness, scaling, and rash) typically takes 1–2 weeks. Complete clearance of athlete's foot and ringworm requires the full 4-week treatment course. Jock itch typically clears in 2 weeks. It is critical to continue using the cream for the full recommended duration even if symptoms improve — stopping early is the most common cause of relapse. If no improvement occurs after 4 weeks for athlete's foot or 2 weeks for jock itch, consult a healthcare provider.
As a pharmaceutical antifungal treatment, it fits into a medical treatment step rather than a standard skincare routine. The recommended sequence for infected body areas is: (1) Cleanse and thoroughly dry the affected area, (2) Apply a thin layer of clotrimazole cream to the affected skin and surrounding margin, (3) Allow to absorb fully before covering with clothing or socks, (4) For athlete's foot, wear breathable, well-ventilated footwear after application. It is applied twice daily — morning and evening. It is not typically layered under other skincare products on treated areas.
The formula has an overall comedogenic rating of approximately 3/5 due to the presence of Cetostearyl Alcohol (rating 2–3), Cetyl Esters Wax (rating 2), 2-Octyldodecanol (rating 3), and Polysorbate 60 (rating 3). This means it has moderate pore-clogging potential and is NOT recommended for acne-prone or pore-sensitive facial skin. On body skin (feet, legs, torso, groin), comedogenicity is less of a concern for most people. This product is a pharmaceutical treatment for fungal skin infections and is not designed or intended for facial skincare use.
The product should be used within 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Always check the expiration date printed on the tube and do not use the product after that date. Store at controlled room temperature between 20°–25°C (68°–77°F). Keep the tube tightly capped when not in use and avoid exposure to extreme heat, cold, or direct sunlight. For athlete's foot (4-week treatment), a standard 1 oz (30 g) tube applied twice daily to a typical affected area should provide enough product for one full treatment course.
Verdict: Taro Clotrimazole Cream USP 1% is ahighly reliable, affordable, and clinically proven antifungal treatment for athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and related body fungal infections. Manufactured by Taro Pharmaceuticals in Canada and distributed in the USA, it delivers the same active ingredient (clotrimazole 1%) as the name-brand Lotrimin AF at a fraction of the price. Itsminimal 7-ingredient, fragrance-free, paraben-free formula makes it an excellent choice for those with fragrance sensitivities or who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The main caveats are its moderate comedogenic rating and Malassezia-feeding emulsifiers — making it strictly a body treatment, not suitable for facial or fungal-acne-prone skin. For those treating body fungal infections, Taro Clotrimazole Cream 1% representsexceptional value and proven efficacy in a clean, no-frills pharmaceutical package.
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
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 |
Sorbitan Stearate
Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 60
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Candelilla Wax Esters
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|