Copper Peptide
Copper Peptide
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically advanced, fragrance-free anti-aging serum by Theramid (Niche Beauty Lab, Spain) featuring 3% pure Copper Tripeptide-1 — one of the highest concentrations on the market — combined with a potent 13% multi-peptide complex including growth factors, biomimetic peptides, Bifida Ferment Lysate, and Sodium Hyaluronate to stimulate collagen synthesis, firm skin, and visibly reduce wrinkles and signs of aging.
3% Pure Copper Tripeptide-1
Among the highest concentrations available in any retail copper peptide serum. Clinically studied GHK-Cu analog that stimulates collagen and elastin production, neutralizes free radicals, and accelerates skin repair processes.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3% Pure Copper Tripeptide-1
Among the highest concentrations available in any retail copper peptide serum. Clinically studied GHK-Cu analog that stimulates collagen and elastin production, neutralizes free radicals, and accelerates skin repair processes.
13% Multi-Peptide Complex
Six biomimetic and growth-factor peptides — Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2, Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2, Sh-Oligopeptide-1 (EGF), Sh-Oligopeptide-2 (IGF-1), and Sh-Polypeptides 1, 9 & 11 — work synergistically to firm, smooth, and renew.
Bifida Ferment Lysate
Inspired by the iconic Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair formula, this probiotic-derived ingredient powerfully protects against UV-induced damage, reinforces the skin barrier, and deeply hydrates.
Dual Hydration System
Sodium Hyaluronate draws water into the upper skin layers while Betaine and Glycerin bind and retain moisture for long-lasting suppleness without heaviness or greasiness.
Vegan & Clean Formula
Completely free from fragrances, oils, parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols. Developed at a skin-friendly pH of 5.0–6.0. Vegan certified and not tested on animals.
NeoclairPro + Progeline Technology
The formula incorporates Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2 (Progeline), a peptide clinically shown to combat signs of premature aging, restore cell activity to youthful levels, and measurably increase skin elasticity and firmness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. The formula contains Bifida Ferment Lysate and growth-factor peptides (EGF, IGF-1) whose safety during pregnancy has not been definitively established. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone are present. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains Bifida Ferment Lysate (a ferment), Lecithin (a fatty acid ester), and Hexyl Laurate — all ingredients that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. Those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis should avoid this product.
The formula is primarily silicone-based (Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane) with no high-comedogenic oils. Dimethicone is non-comedogenic and forms a breathable barrier. Overall pore-clogging risk is very low.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, and oil-free. pH of 5.0–6.0 matches the skin's natural acid mantle. Well-tolerated by reactive skin types, though a patch test is always recommended when introducing new actives.
Contains Sh-Oligopeptide-1 (EGF — Epidermal Growth Factor), which stimulates cell proliferation. Those with active psoriasis, a history of skin cancer, or high skin cancer risk factors should consult a dermatologist before use.
The brand explicitly advises against combining with AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids in the same application step, as these can destabilize the peptide complex. Use peptides and retinoids on separate evenings or at different times of day.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCopper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) ~3%Proven
The hero active of this serum. Copper Tripeptide-1 (also known as GHK-Cu) is a naturally occurring copper complex with decades of clinical research behind it. It is one of the most extensively studied peptides in dermatology, known for stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, promoting wound healing, acting as a potent antioxidant, and supporting the skin's natural repair mechanisms.
- Collagen Stimulation: Clinically demonstrated to upregulate collagen types I, II, and III production in dermal fibroblasts.
- Antioxidant Action: Chelates free copper ions that can catalyze oxidative damage; neutralizes reactive oxygen species.
- Wound Healing: Promotes angiogenesis and nerve growth, accelerating the repair of damaged skin tissue.
- Concentration: At 3%, this is among the highest concentrations found in any commercially available retail serum.
Bifida Ferment Lysate ~2–4%Proven
A probiotic-derived ingredient consisting of lysed Bifidobacterium cells. It is the same key ingredient found in Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair and is backed by significant clinical and manufacturer research. It potently protects against UV-induced DNA damage, strengthens the skin barrier, hydrates the stratum corneum, and has documented antioxidant properties.
- UV Protection: Shown in manufacturer studies to protect skin DNA from UV-induced damage.
- Barrier Repair: Reinforces the skin's protective barrier function and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms skin reactivity and reduces visible redness.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.5–1%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid, with a smaller molecular weight that allows for deeper penetration into the epidermis compared to standard hyaluronic acid. It is one of the most effective humectants in skincare, capable of holding up to 1000 times its weight in water, providing immediate and sustained hydration.
- Deep Humectancy: Penetrates into the stratum spinosum to hydrate from within, not just at the surface.
- Plumping Effect: Temporarily reduces the appearance of fine lines by increasing skin water content.
- Biocompatible: Naturally present in human skin; extremely well-tolerated by all skin types.
Betaine ~1–3%Proven
A naturally derived amino acid trimethylglycine sourced from sugar beets. Betaine functions as both an effective humectant and an osmoprotectant, helping cells maintain their water balance under environmental stress. It has documented skin-soothing properties and helps reduce irritation potential of active ingredients in the formula.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains water in the uppermost layers of the skin.
- Osmoprotectant: Stabilizes proteins and cellular membranes under stress conditions.
- Soothing: Helps reduce irritation and sensitivity when combined with actives.
Sh-Oligopeptide-1 (EGF) + Sh-Oligopeptide-2 (IGF-1) ~0.3–0.7%Promising
Sh-Oligopeptide-1 is Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and Sh-Oligopeptide-2 is Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). Both are potent cell-signaling proteins that stimulate fibroblast proliferation, promote skin renewal, and support wound healing. These are among the most advanced and costly actives in skincare formulation.
- Cell Proliferation: EGF binds to receptors on keratinocytes and fibroblasts, triggering cell division and renewal.
- Collagen Support: IGF-1 upregulates collagen and elastin gene expression in dermal fibroblasts.
- Science Status: Promising with positive in-vitro and some in-vivo data; more large-scale human trials are needed.
Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2 (Progeline) ~0.20–0.80%Promising
A synthetic peptide that targets Progerin — a truncated form of Lamin A protein associated with accelerated skin aging and reduced cell vitality. Manufacturer data claims it can help restore cell activity to that of a younger cell, and increase skin elasticity, firmness, and reduce skin sagging.
- Anti-Progerin: Inhibits Progerin expression, which increases dramatically in aging skin cells.
- Firming Effect: Documented to improve skin elasticity parameters in clinical settings.
- Unique Target: Addresses a cellular aging pathway not targeted by most other peptides.
Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 + Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 ~0.30–0.85%Promising
Two biomimetic peptides that complement the copper peptide core. Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 targets melanin synthesis pathways to support an even skin tone. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 stimulates hyaluronic acid synthesis in the dermis and improves the cohesion between epidermal layers, enhancing firmness.
- Hyaluronic Acid Boost: Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 promotes endogenous HA production in dermal cells.
- Tone Evening: Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 modulates tyrosinase activity to help reduce pigmentation irregularities.
Cyclopentasiloxane + Dimethicone + Cyclohexasiloxane ~5–12%Proven
A trio of silicone-based ingredients that form the emollient backbone of the formula. They provide a silky, non-greasy texture, improve spreadability, reduce transepidermal water loss without occlusion, and create the serum's signature smooth, quick-absorbing feel. Dimethicone also temporarily fills fine lines for an immediate smoothing visual effect.
- Skin Barrier: Creates a breathable film that reduces TEWL without blocking pores.
- Texture Agent: Responsible for the luxurious, non-tacky application experience.
- Comedogenic Risk: All three rate 0–1 on the comedogenic scale.
34 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Betaine, Copper Tripeptide-1, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2, Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2, Sh-Oligopeptide-1, Sh-Oligopeptide-2, Sh-Polypeptide-1, Sh-Polypeptide-11, Sh-Polypeptide-9, Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, Bacillus/Folic Acid Ferment Filtrate Extract, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Hexyl Laurate, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Lecithin, Acetyl Glutamine, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Dextran, Disodium EDTA, Acetic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on clean, dry skin. Follow with moisturizer to seal in actives. Use AM and PM. Do NOT layer with AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids in the same step.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Begin with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat skin dry with a clean towel — the formula absorbs best on slightly dry skin.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a hydrating toner or essence, apply it first and allow it to absorb fully before proceeding. Avoid toners with AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C in the same routine step.
Dispense 2–3 Pumps
Press the airless pump 2–3 times to dispense the appropriate amount of serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply with Circular Massage
Smooth the serum across the face, neck, and décolleté using gentle circular massage movements. Allow 30–45 seconds for full absorption before proceeding to the next step.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your usual moisturizer to lock in the peptides and hydrating actives. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Frequency: Twice Daily
Use morning and evening for best results. Copper peptides are stable and beneficial in both AM (paired with antioxidants + SPF) and PM (cell repair is most active at night) routines.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You are 30+ and targeting early to advanced signs of skin aging
- You want a high-concentration copper peptide serum without the high-street price
- Your skin is losing firmness, elasticity, or shows sagging
- You have dull, uneven, or post-procedure skin that needs regeneration
- You are building a science-backed, fragrance-free anti-aging routine
- You want a vegan, cruelty-free, oil-free formula
- You are post-microneedling or after laser and need a peptide recovery serum
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis
- You have active psoriasis or elevated skin cancer risk
- You want to pair with retinoids or acids in the same routine step
- You prefer a water-based serum with no silicones
- You have a known sensitivity to Phenoxyethanol preservatives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal canvas for the full peptide complex. Absorbs quickly and delivers visible firming results without any heaviness.
Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, and Dimethicone work together to deliver rich hydration and lock in moisture. Follow with a nourishing moisturizer for best results.
Oil-free and non-comedogenic. The silicone base may feel slightly occlusive for very oily skin types, but it does not add shine or clog pores.
Balances effortlessly across zones. The lightweight emulsion texture provides targeted hydration without overloading the T-zone.
Fragrance-free and low-irritation profile at pH 5.0–6.0. Patch test recommended. The growth-factor peptides are potent — introduce gradually.
Specifically formulated for 30+ skin. The combination of GHK-Cu, EGF/IGF-1 growth factors, and Progeline addresses multiple aging pathways simultaneously.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Hydration & Radiance Boost
The humectant complex (Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine, Glycerin) begins working immediately. Skin feels more plump, soft, and supple within the first few applications. The silicone base provides an immediate smoothing and glow effect.
~90% noticedTexture Refinement & First Firming Signals
Bifida Ferment Lysate begins strengthening the skin barrier. Skin surface texture feels smoother and more refined. Early users report reduced skin dullness and a more even skin tone starting around week 3.
~70% noticedVisible Firming & Fine Line Reduction
The copper peptide and growth factor complex begins to show measurable results in collagen production. Fine lines appear visibly reduced, and skin begins to feel firmer and more elastic to the touch. Wrinkle depth noticeably decreases.
~60% noticedSignificant Anti-Aging Transformation
With consistent twice-daily use, the full benefit of the 3% copper peptide and 13% peptide complex becomes visible. Skin appears younger, firmer, and more resilient. Users report significant improvement in sagging, loss of elasticity, and expression lines.
~50% noticed significant changeRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally high 3% Copper Tripeptide-1 concentration — rare at retail level
- Comprehensive 13% multi-peptide complex including real EGF and IGF-1 growth factors
- Completely fragrance-free, paraben-free, and vegan certified
- Fast-absorbing, non-greasy, satin finish that layers well under moisturizer
- Visible hydration improvement from the first week of use
- pH 5.0–6.0 is optimal for peptide stability and skin compatibility
- Airless pump packaging protects active ingredients from oxidation
- Works beautifully as a post-procedure (microneedling, laser) recovery serum
Criticized
- Small 30ml size feels inadequate for twice-daily use over a full month
- Not safe for fungal acne (Malassezia) due to ferment and Lecithin content
- Silicone-heavy base may not appeal to those who prefer 100% water-based serums
- Growth factors (EGF/IGF-1) are contraindicated for some skin conditions
- Cannot be combined with retinoids or acids in the same routine step
- Results require 4–8 weeks of consistent use — not an overnight fix
- Price-per-ml is high compared to some competitor peptide serums
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Water-based serum with 1% copper peptides (vs 3%) and multi-peptide complex. Simpler base formula without growth factors (no EGF/IGF-1) or Bifida Ferment Lysate. Significantly lower peptide concentration but well-studied and widely available. Good entry-level option for those new to copper peptides.
High-concept copper peptide serum from Brandon Truaxe's NIOD line. Features 2% copper peptide complex in a sophisticated water-based delivery system. Does not include growth factors or ferments (safer for fungal acne). More expensive than Theramid but widely respected in the skincare community for copper peptide delivery.
Multi-peptide booster designed to be mixed with other products. Contains multiple peptide types but no copper peptides, no growth factors, and no ferments. More flexible routine integration and considered a step down in active concentration compared to Theramid's specialized formula. Excellent for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate growth factors.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1
SkinCeuticals Tripeptide-R Neck Repair
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The airless pump packaging significantly extends stability by limiting exposure to air and light.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Refrigeration is optional but can extend the potency of growth-factor peptides (EGF/IGF-1). Keep away from children.
Airless pump bottle (30ml). The airless mechanism prevents oxidation of copper peptides and maintains formula integrity throughout use. Each pump dispenses a pre-measured dose.
Yes — the 30ml size is under the 100ml TSA/airline liquid limit and is ideal for carry-on travel. The secure airless pump prevents leakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters — the most commonly restricted ingredients during pregnancy. However, it does contain growth-factor peptides including Sh-Oligopeptide-1 (EGF) and Sh-Oligopeptide-2 (IGF-1), as well as Bifida Ferment Lysate. The systemic absorption of topically applied growth factors is minimal, but their safety during pregnancy has not been definitively studied or confirmed. As a precaution, always consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before introducing new skincare actives during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No — Theramid Copper Peptide is not considered safe for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis / Malassezia). The formula contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Bifida Ferment Lysate (a ferment), Lecithin (a fatty phospholipid ester), and Hexyl Laurate (a fatty acid ester). All three are known triggers for fungal acne flare-ups. If you are prone to fungal acne, we recommend considering a simpler copper peptide serum without ferments or fatty esters, such as The Ordinary "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1% or NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1.
Not in the same routine step. The brand explicitly advises against combining this serum with retinoids (retinol, retinal, tretinoin) or exfoliating acids (AHAs like glycolic/lactic acid, BHAs like salicylic acid) in the same application. Combining these can destabilize the peptide complex and reduce overall efficacy. For retinoids, use on alternating evenings. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) at low pH can also interfere with copper peptide stability — if you use both, apply vitamin C in the morning and copper peptides in the evening, or use a buffered vitamin C derivative that is less reactive.
Theramid Copper Peptide is formulated for all skin types, with particular benefits for normal, dry, combination, and mature (30+) skin. It is excellent for anti-aging-focused routines, post-procedure recovery skin, and dull or dehydrated complexions. It is oil-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for oily skin too, though those with very oily skin may find the silicone-emulsion base slightly heavy. It is not recommended for those with fungal acne or active psoriasis. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to the potent growth-factor complex.
Most users notice improved hydration, radiance, and skin softness within the first 1–2 weeks. These effects come from the humectant complex (Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine, Glycerin) and the barrier-supporting Bifida Ferment Lysate. Visible firming, wrinkle reduction, and improved elasticity — the results driven by the copper peptide and growth-factor complex — typically become noticeable after 6–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Maximum collagen-remodeling results are usually seen after 3–4 months of continued use. Consistency is key — skipping applications significantly slows results.
Apply Theramid Copper Peptide as your serum step, after cleansing and any toner or essence, but before eye cream and moisturizer. The general layering order is: Cleanser → Toner/Essence (optional) → Theramid Copper Peptide → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → SPF (morning only). As a serum, it should go on before heavier creams and oils. Do not apply after retinoids or acids in the same routine — use on separate evenings or at different times of day.
No — Theramid Copper Peptide has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is oil-free and based primarily on non-comedogenic silicones (Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane), all of which rate 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. There are no pore-clogging oils or waxes in the formula. The Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate emulsifier has a moderate comedogenic potential rating, but at the concentration present in this formula (as a minor emulsifier), its real-world pore-clogging risk is negligible for most users. The product is suitable for acne-prone skin types as long as fungal acne is not a concern.
Theramid Copper Peptide has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The airless pump bottle helps significantly extend this shelf life by preventing the formula from being exposed to air and light, which can degrade copper peptides and growth factors over time. If you use 2–3 pumps twice daily, the 30ml bottle should last approximately 4–6 weeks. For best potency, store the bottle in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Optional: storing in the refrigerator can further help preserve growth-factor stability.
Verdict: Theramid Copper Peptide by Niche Beauty Lab (Spain) is a genuinely impressive, science-forward anti-aging serum that stands out in a crowded peptide market. Its 3% Copper Tripeptide-1 concentration is among the highest commercially available, and the supporting cast of EGF and IGF-1 growth factors, Bifida Ferment Lysate, and six additional biomimetic peptides makes this one of the most comprehensive anti-aging peptide formulations at its price point. The fragrance-free, vegan, and pH-balanced formula is well-constructed and suitable for a broad range of skin types and ages 30+. Key limitations include its unsuitability for fungal acne-prone skin due to the ferment and fatty ester content, the cannot-combine restriction with retinoids and acids, and the relatively small 30ml bottle size for the price. For those who can tolerate the formula and are committed to consistent twice-daily use, Theramid Copper Peptide delivers visible anti-aging results that rival products costing two to three times more.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|