Cloud Surf Water Cream Moisturizer
Cloud Surf Water Cream Moisturizer
Product Description
Product overview
A light-as-air water cream moisturizer that quenches and rebalances normal-to-combination skin without any stickiness or heaviness. Powered by Hibiscus Extract, Celery Seed Extract, and Lilac Extract, it minimizes pores, controls excess oil, and leaves your face looking naturally smooth and nourished — all at an accessible price point that punches way above its weight.
Hibiscus Sebum Control
Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract helps regulate excess oil production, keeping combination skin balanced throughout the day without over-drying.
Texture & feel
SENSORYHibiscus Sebum Control
Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract helps regulate excess oil production, keeping combination skin balanced throughout the day without over-drying.
Celery Seed Pore Minimizer
Apium Graveolens (Celery) Extract acts as a natural pore-refining ingredient, visibly tightening the appearance of enlarged pores for a smoother canvas.
Lilac Extract Mattifier
Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Extract mattifies the complexion and helps equalize skin tone — particularly beneficial for acne-prone or uneven-textured skin.
Multi-Humectant Hydration
A triple-humectant system of Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, and Fructose draws moisture deep into skin layers, delivering lasting hydration without the greasy residue of heavier creams.
Ashwagandha Root Adaptogen
Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) Root Extract provides antioxidant and adaptogenic benefits, helping to shield skin from environmental stressors and support a healthy glow.
Vitamin E Antioxidant Shield
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) protects skin from free radical damage, supports lipid barrier integrity, and enhances overall resilience against oxidative stress.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, hydroquinone, or salicylic acid. Contains Phenoxyethanol at cosmetic-safe levels. Generally considered low-risk, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains Sorbitan Isostearate (isostearic acid base), Cetearyl Alcohol (fatty alcohol), and Glyceryl Stearate — all of which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger fungal acne breakouts.
Completely fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free of common sensitizers. The gentle botanical blend and absence of harsh actives make this suitable for reactive skin types.
Key emollients score low on comedogenicity scales. Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides rate 0–1, Glyceryl Stearate rates 1–2, and no high-rated pore-cloggers are present in significant quantities.
Contains no conflicting acids or active ingredients. Safe to layer under or after retinol. Use retinol first on dry skin, then apply Cloud Surf as a moisturizing buffer to minimize irritation.
No oxidizing ingredients that would degrade Vitamin C serums. Apply Vitamin C serum first, wait 60 seconds, then layer Cloud Surf on top for optimal absorption.
Contains trace Citric Acid (pH adjuster only, not active exfoliation). Safe to use in the same routine as AHA/BHA exfoliants — apply exfoliant first, allow to absorb, then moisturize with Cloud Surf.
Free of hormone-disrupting chemicals, phthalates, bisphenols, and PFAS compounds. Formulated with younger, developing skin in mind — a hallmark of the Bubble Skincare brand philosophy.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5–8% est.Proven
The MVP humectant of Cloud Surf. As the 3rd ingredient by weight, Glycerin is present at a meaningful concentration — drawing water from the atmosphere into the skin and holding it there. It works at the surface and within the deeper epidermal layers thanks to its low molecular weight.
- Mechanism: Binds water molecules via hydrogen bonding, increasing skin hydration at the stratum corneum.
- Study (2016): Glycerin was shown to outperform hyaluronic acid and AHAs as a humectant in controlled trials on dry skin.
- Barrier function: Supports ceramide synthesis pathways and improves skin barrier integrity over time with consistent use.
Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides ~4–7% est.Proven
Derived from coconut oil and glycerin, this ultra-light emollient is what gives Cloud Surf its signature "air-cream" texture. Unlike raw coconut oil, it is non-comedogenic, highly stable against oxidation, and acts as a carrier that helps other actives penetrate more efficiently.
- Texture role: Creates a silky, non-greasy slip without leaving occlusive residue — ideal for oily/combo skin.
- Stability: Highly resistant to rancidity; extends shelf life without the need for additional antioxidant preservatives.
- Comedogenic rating: 0–1 — virtually non-pore-clogging despite being coconut-derived.
Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract trace–low est.Promising
A naturally astringent botanical extract rich in organic acids and anthocyanins. Hibiscus helps regulate sebaceous activity, making it particularly useful for oily and combination skin that experiences midday shine. Often called "nature's botox" for its mild exfoliating and firming properties.
- Sebum control: Organic acids (malic and citric) provide mild regulation of oil gland activity without stripping moisture.
- Antioxidant: Rich in anthocyanins that neutralize free radicals generated by UV and pollution exposure.
- Research status: Promising in vitro data; in-vivo clinical studies are ongoing as of 2024.
Apium Graveolens (Celery Seed) Extract trace–low est.Promising
Highlighted by Bubble as the hero pore-minimizing ingredient. Celery seed extract contains phthalides and flavonoids with anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm redness and visibly tighten the look of pores — particularly effective when skin is prepped and hydrated.
- Pore minimizing: Supports temporary tightening of the skin's surface texture, especially beneficial as a makeup primer base.
- Anti-inflammatory: Phthalide compounds reduce redness and irritation associated with enlarged or congested pores.
- Positioning: Bubble markets this as a "double-acting gel-based pore minimizer" in their official product copy.
Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Extract trace–low est.Promising
A botanical extract derived from lilac blossoms, used for its skin-tone-equalizing and mattifying properties. Particularly valued in formulations targeting combination and acne-prone skin, where it helps create a more uniform, balanced complexion.
- Mattifying: Helps absorb surface oil and reduce the appearance of shine, contributing to the product's semi-matte finish.
- Tone equalization: Antioxidant flavonoids help address minor discoloration and redness in acne-prone skin.
- Synergy: Works in concert with Hibiscus and Celery Seed Extract to form a botanical sebum-balancing complex.
Biosaccharide Gum-4 trace–low est.Promising
A fermented gum derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol), functioning as both an emollient and a film-former. It creates a breathable, protective film on the skin surface that locks in hydration while contributing to the product's signature "floofy" sensory texture.
- Emollient film: High molecular weight allows it to create a comfortable veil on skin that aids moisture retention.
- Source: Biotechnology-derived (fermentation of sorbitol); vegan and clean manufacturing process.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) trace est.Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin lipids from oxidative damage, strengthens the natural skin barrier, and improves product stability. It supports the overall health of the stratum corneum and works synergistically with other antioxidants in the formula.
- Free radical defense: Neutralizes reactive oxygen species generated by UV, pollution, and metabolic activity.
- Barrier support: Integrates into lipid layers of the skin to improve barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss.
- Comedogenic rating: 2–3 — present in small amounts; combined with lightweight formula base, net comedogenic impact remains low.
28 ingredients
Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Glycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate, Isododecane, Maltodextrin, Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Extract, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract, Withania Somnifera Root Extract, Apium Graveolens (Celery) Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fructose, Sorbitan Isostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Tocopherol, Polylysine, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Cloud Surf as your final moisturizing step before SPF in the morning. At night, use it as your last step. Can also double as a primer — apply and allow 60 seconds to set before makeup.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, freshly cleansed skin. Pat dry gently — do not rub. Leaving skin slightly damp (not wet) can boost the humectant absorption of Cloud Surf.
Apply Serums First
If using actives (Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid serums), apply these before Cloud Surf. Wait 30–60 seconds for each layer to absorb fully.
Pump 1–2 Presses
Dispense 1–2 pumps into clean fingertips. For most users, 1 pump is sufficient for full-face coverage. Use 2 pumps for a more hydrating effect in drier conditions or seasons.
Warm & Press Into Skin
Warm the product between your palms for 2–3 seconds, then press gently into the face using upward motions. Avoid rubbing, which can pill the product. Work from center outward.
Allow to Absorb (AM) — Then SPF
In the morning, give Cloud Surf 60 seconds to fully set before applying sunscreen. As a primer, it creates a smooth, hydrated base that helps foundation sit evenly and last longer.
Use Morning & Night
Safe and effective for twice-daily use. The lightweight formula won't cause congestion with consistent daily use. Ideal year-round, but especially suited to warmer months or humid climates.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin that craves hydration without shine
- Your current moisturizer feels too heavy, greasy, or pilling under makeup
- You want to minimize the appearance of pores and balance skin tone
- You're looking for a budget-friendly moisturizer under $20 that feels premium
- You wear makeup daily and need a hydrating primer-moisturizer hybrid
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean formulas free from parabens and silicones
- You're a teenager or young adult just building your skincare routine
- You want a formula safe to layer with serums, retinol, or Vitamin C
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severely dry or dehydrated skin that needs a rich, occlusive cream
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You need a moisturizer with built-in SPF protection
- You're looking for clinical concentrations of active ingredients like retinol or niacinamide
- You live in a very cold or dry climate and need heavy barrier repair support
- Your skin is extremely sensitive to polysorbate-family emulsifiers (Sorbitan Isostearate)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe lightweight, oil-free formula hydrates without adding shine. Hibiscus and Lilac Extract actively work to regulate sebum and mattify — a rare combination at this price point. Ideal for oily skin that still needs moisture.
This is the primary target skin type. Cloud Surf balances oily T-zones while providing adequate hydration to drier cheek areas — precisely what combination skin needs without over-moisturizing any zone.
A perfect everyday moisturizer for normal skin — hydrating enough to maintain comfort, light enough to never feel excessive. Works beautifully in warm months or humid climates when heavier creams feel oppressive.
Provides light-to-medium hydration. Those with very dry or dehydrated skin may find Cloud Surf insufficient on its own and may need to layer it over a Hyaluronic Acid serum or follow with a richer occlusive at night.
Fragrance-free and free of common irritants. The botanical extracts are present at low concentrations unlikely to cause reactions. Patch test recommended for highly reactive skin; a small number of users have reported sensitivity to Phenoxyethanol.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5), oil-free, and enriched with anti-inflammatory botanicals. Appropriate for most acne types. However, those with confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) should avoid due to Sorbitan Isostearate.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Smoothing & Hydration Surge
Within seconds of application, the whipped water-cream texture melts into skin leaving an immediate soft, plump sensation. Pores appear visibly refined and skin feels balanced — not tight, not greasy. Perfect canvas for makeup.
95% noticed in brand trial (n=19)Balanced Oil Production
With consistent twice-daily use, Hibiscus and Lilac extracts begin to show visible sebum regulation. Midday shine is noticeably reduced in most combo/oily skin users. Skin feels comfortable from morning to evening without blotting.
~80% report reduced midday shineImproved Skin Texture & Pore Appearance
Celery Seed Extract and the multi-humectant system work together to improve overall skin texture. Pores appear visibly smaller, skin surface feels smoother to the touch, and complexion looks more even and refreshed.
~70% notice pore refinementLong-Term Hydration Balance
Sustained use supports a well-hydrated, sebum-balanced skin barrier. Tocopherol and adaptogenic Ashwagandha Root Extract accumulate antioxidant benefits over time, contributing to a healthier, more resilient complexion with a natural glow.
~65% report overall skin improvementRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional lightweight, "floofy" texture that feels like nothing on the skin
- Absorbs in seconds — no waiting time, no tackiness
- Completely fragrance-free and free of common irritants
- Noticeably reduces midday shine for oily and combo skin
- Excellent makeup primer — creates a smooth, hydrated base
- Airless pump bottle prevents contamination and waste
- Outstanding value under $20 for the quality of formulation
- Works beautifully in layered routines with serums and actives
- Botanically-powered with science-backed humectants
Criticized
- NOT fungal acne safe — contains Sorbitan Isostearate and Cetearyl Alcohol
- Too light for severely dry or dehydrated skin types
- Small 50ml size may run out in 4–6 weeks with twice-daily use
- Active ingredient concentrations not disclosed on packaging
- Rare reports of sensitivity reactions (primarily Phenoxyethanol)
- Limited availability outside the US (no international shipping from brand site)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Both are lightweight water-gel/water-cream formulas for normal-to-combo skin. Hydro Boost uses Hyaluronic Acid as its hero ingredient (vs. botanical extracts in Cloud Surf). Lacks pore-minimizing botanicals but delivers comparable hydration. Widely available everywhere.
A creamy-light moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Peptides. Slightly richer than Cloud Surf, making it better for dry skin but potentially heavier for oily types. Contains fragrance components, so less ideal for sensitive skin. Excellent value.
A dermatologist-recommended lightweight lotion that is fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin. Less elegant texture compared to Cloud Surf's whipped feel and doesn't include pore-minimizing botanicals, but is universally tolerated and very budget-friendly per ounce.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEBubble Cloud Surf (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The airless pump design significantly extends usable life by minimizing air exposure and contamination compared to jar-style packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in steamy bathrooms — a bedroom shelf or vanity is ideal. Keep below 25°C (77°F) to preserve botanical extract activity.
Airless pump bottle (50ml full size; 30ml mini travel size available). The airless mechanism prevents oxidation and contamination — no spatulas or fingers in the product. Dispenses a precise, controlled amount with each press.
The 30ml mini (1 fl oz) is TSA carry-on compliant. The full-size 50ml (1.7 fl oz) also falls under the 100ml liquid limit for most international carry-on rules. Airless pump is leak-resistant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCloud Surf does not contain the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy — no retinoids (retinol, retinaldehyde, tretinoin), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no oxybenzone or avobenzone (chemical sunscreen filters). This makes it considerably safer than many face moisturizers during pregnancy. The formula does contain Phenoxyethanol as a preservative, which is classified as safe at cosmetic use levels by the EU and FDA, though some overly cautious sources flag it. Overall, Cloud Surf is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy, but as with all skincare during pregnancy, we recommend consulting your OB/GYN or midwife before adding new products to your routine.
No — Bubble Cloud Surf is NOT considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Sorbitan Isostearate, which has an isostearic acid base that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne. It also contains Cetearyl Alcohol (a fatty alcohol) and Glyceryl Stearate (an ester), both of which are debated ingredients for FA-prone users. If you have confirmed fungal acne, we strongly recommend choosing an FA-safe alternative. Consider Neutrogena Hydro Boost (original formulation) or products specifically vetted through the HF (Holy Snails) fungal acne filter for your moisturizer step.
Yes — Cloud Surf is compatible with all major active ingredients. With retinol: apply retinol first to clean, dry skin, wait 20–30 minutes, then apply Cloud Surf on top to act as a hydrating buffer and reduce irritation. With Vitamin C: apply Vitamin C serum first, allow 60 seconds to absorb, then follow with Cloud Surf. With AHAs/BHAs: use your exfoliant first (evening, 2–3x per week), allow to absorb for 5–10 minutes, then apply Cloud Surf as your moisturizer. The trace Citric Acid in Cloud Surf is a pH adjuster only and not an active exfoliant — it will not conflict with your exfoliating acids. Cloud Surf does not contain niacinamide, which means no compatibility concerns with Vitamin C formulas sensitive to that combination.
Cloud Surf is officially designed for normal-to-combination skin, and it truly excels there. Oily skin types will also find it ideal — the Hibiscus, Lilac, and Celery Seed Extract complex actively works to control sebum and minimize pores. Those with normal skin will enjoy it year-round as a reliable everyday moisturizer. Dry skin can use it, but may find the hydration insufficient as a standalone moisturizer in drier seasons or climates — layering over a Hyaluronic Acid serum or following with a heavier night cream is recommended. Very dry or dehydrated skin should consider Bubble's Slam Dunk moisturizer instead, which is formulated for deeper moisture needs.
Results vary by concern. Immediate texture improvement and hydration are felt within seconds of the first application. Oil control and reduced shine typically become noticeable within the first week of consistent twice-daily use. Pore refinement and improved skin texture develop over 2–4 weeks. Longer-term benefits from the antioxidant ingredients (Tocopherol, Ashwagandha, clover flower) accumulate over 6–8 weeks of consistent use. In Bubble's own internal user trial with 19 participants over 2 weeks, 95% agreed their skin felt hydrated without extra shine.
Cloud Surf is applied as your moisturizer step — the second-to-last step in your routine, directly before sunscreen in the morning. The order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Essence or Serum → Eye Cream → Cloud Surf → Sunscreen (AM only). At night: Cleanser → Toner → Treatments/Serums → Eye Cream → Cloud Surf (last step). Importantly, Cloud Surf can also double as a makeup primer. After applying Cloud Surf, wait 60 seconds for it to set, then proceed with foundation or BB cream. It creates a smooth, hydrated base that helps makeup adhere and last longer.
Cloud Surf has a low overall comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5, making it generally non-pore-clogging for most users. The primary emollients — Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (0–1/5) and Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (1/5) — are among the lightest and least comedogenic available. Cetearyl Alcohol rates 2/5 and Glyceryl Stearate rates 1–2/5, both at levels unlikely to cause breakouts when present at typical cosmetic concentrations. The formula is also fragrance-free and oil-free, further reducing pore-clogging risk. Most acne-prone users report no new breakouts — in fact, the sebum-regulating botanicals actively help keep pores clear. If you are extremely acne-prone, a patch test on your jawline for 1 week before full-face use is always a good idea.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Bubble Cloud Surf is 12 months. The airless pump bottle design is a major advantage here — because the product is never exposed to air or fingers (unlike jar packaging), the preservative system is under much less stress, and the formula's potency is maintained throughout its shelf life. In practical terms, with twice-daily use (1–2 pumps each time), a 50ml bottle lasts approximately 4–6 weeks. The 30ml travel size lasts about 3–4 weeks with the same usage frequency. Always check for changes in color, smell, or texture as signs of expiry — any significant change means it's time to replace.
Verdict: Bubble Cloud Surf Water Cream Moisturizer is one of the most impressive drugstore-priced moisturizers available for normal-to-combination skin. Its cloud-like whipped texture, zero-greasiness, and thoughtful botanical complex — Hibiscus for sebum control, Celery Seed for pore minimization, Lilac for mattifying — make it genuinely effective and not just clever marketing. At under $20 for a cleanly formulated, fragrance-free, primer-compatible moisturizer powered by real botanical actives and a solid humectant system, it significantly punches above its weight class. The main caveats: it is not safe for fungal acne, and very dry skin types should look elsewhere (or layer heavily). But for its intended audience of oily, normal, and combination skin users, it's a near-perfect everyday hydrator that belongs in any practical routine.
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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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|