Crystal Secret NMF Amino + AHA PHA Clarifying Foaming Cleanser
Crystal Secret NMF Amino + AHA PHA Clarifying Foaming Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A daily exfoliating foaming cleanser by Wardah powered by NMF Amino acids, multi-fruit AHA complex, and PHA (gluconolactone) that gently lifts dead skin cells, excess oil, and impurities while preserving the skin's natural moisture barrier — leaving skin clarified, smooth, and luminously bright.
Natural AHA Multi-Fruit Complex
Lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, and fruit extracts (sugar cane, sugar maple, lemon, blueberry, orange) deliver gentle chemical exfoliation to brighten skin and smooth texture without harsh scrubbing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYNatural AHA Multi-Fruit Complex
Lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, and fruit extracts (sugar cane, sugar maple, lemon, blueberry, orange) deliver gentle chemical exfoliation to brighten skin and smooth texture without harsh scrubbing.
PHA — Gluconolactone
Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that exfoliates more gently than traditional AHAs with larger molecules that penetrate skin slowly — making it suitable even for sensitive skin types while also providing humectant hydration.
NMF Amino Acids — Sodium PCA
Sodium PCA is a key component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), a powerful humectant that draws and binds moisture into the skin. It counteracts dryness that can result from exfoliating cleansers.
Edelweiss Extract
Leontopodium Alpinum (Edelweiss) Extract is rich in antioxidants and bisabolol-like compounds that help brighten skin tone, protect against oxidative stress, and reduce the appearance of dark spots over time.
Sustainable Moistbeads — Corn Starch
Zea Mays Starch and Microcrystalline Cellulose form biodegradable "moistbeads" that release hydration into skin during cleansing — a sustainable alternative to plastic microbeads, aligning with Wardah's reef-safe commitment.
Gentle Amino Acid Surfactant System
Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate and Decyl Glucoside are mild, amino acid-derived and sugar-derived surfactants that balance the formula's cleansing power. They reduce the potential irritation of Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS), keeping the formula suitable for daily use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis cleanser contains AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid) and DMDM Hydantoin (a formaldehyde-releasing preservative). Most dermatologists consider rinse-off AHA cleansers low-risk during pregnancy, but DMDM Hydantoin is generally best avoided. Always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort and community testing. The formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, or polysorbates that can feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No high-comedogenic oils or butters are present in this formula. Key ingredients like Decyl Glucoside, Glycerin, and Sodium PCA have a comedogenic rating of 0–1. Very unlikely to clog pores; suitable for acne-prone skin.
Wardah is Indonesia's leading halal-certified beauty brand. This product is not tested on animals and holds official Halal certification — a core pillar of the Wardah brand identity since its founding.
Contains no oxybenzone, octinoxate, or plastic microbeads. Uses biodegradable corn starch moistbeads instead, making this formula environmentally responsible and reef-safe.
AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) increase photosensitivity. Always apply sunscreen with at least SPF 15 during the day when using AHA-containing products. Avoid direct sun exposure immediately after use without protection.
DMDM Hydantoin slowly releases small amounts of formaldehyde to preserve the formula. It is approved for cosmetic use at regulated levels, but may cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. It is located lower in the ingredient list, indicating a low concentration.
This product contains Parfum (fragrance), which could be a potential irritant for very fragrance-sensitive skin types. While listed low in the formula, those with reactive skin should patch test before regular use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin Top 5Proven
A universally beloved humectant that draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the uppermost layer of skin. Essential for preventing transepidermal water loss during the cleansing process, keeping skin supple and hydrated post-wash.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioning
- Evidence: Extensively studied; shown to increase skin hydration and improve barrier function in clinical trials
- Comedogenic: 0/5 — Non-comedogenic
Cocamidopropyl Betaine Top 10Proven
A mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. It produces a rich, stable lather while significantly reducing the irritation potential of stronger surfactants like SLS. A key component of gentle, skin-friendly cleansing systems.
- Function: Cleansing, foam boosting, antistatic
- Evidence: Shown to reduce irritancy of SLS-based formulas; widely used in baby shampoos and sensitive-skin cleansers
- Safety: Considered safe at typical use concentrations by cosmetic safety panels
Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate Top 10Proven
An amino acid-based (glycine-derived) surfactant with excellent skin compatibility. It maintains the skin's natural moisture and has a pH close to that of human skin, making it ideal for gentle, daily exfoliating cleansers.
- Function: Mild surfactant, cleansing
- Evidence: pH-compatible with skin; studied for low irritation potential in repeat-insult patch testing
- Origin: Derived from coconut fatty acids and the amino acid glycine
Gluconolactone (PHA) Mid-RangeProven
A first-generation polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that exfoliates the skin gently by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells. Its larger molecular size means slower, more uniform penetration — making it gentler than glycolic or lactic acid, with added humectant benefits.
- Evidence: Clinical studies show PHA can improve skin texture and radiance with significantly less irritation than AHAs
- Bonus benefit: Has chelating properties and acts as a mild antioxidant
- Sensitivity: Suitable for rosacea and sensitive skin types
Lactic Acid (AHA) Lower RangeProven
A well-researched alpha hydroxy acid derived naturally from milk. Lactic acid exfoliates the skin surface, stimulates cell turnover, and improves skin brightness and texture. It has a larger molecular weight than glycolic acid, making it slightly gentler with added humectant properties.
- Evidence: Peer-reviewed studies confirm lactic acid improves skin hydration, reduces fine lines, and brightens dark spots at concentrations above 5%
- In rinse-off cleansers: Contact time is brief; effects are milder than leave-on formulations
- Photosensitivity: Increases UV sensitivity — SPF use is advised
Multi-Fruit AHA Complex Lower RangeProven
A blend of natural AHA-rich fruit extracts including Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, and Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract. These provide a gentle, natural complement to the synthetic AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) for a well-rounded exfoliation profile.
- Sugar Cane: Natural source of glycolic acid; brightening and smoothing
- Sugar Maple: Contains malic acid; promotes cell renewal
- Blueberry: Rich in antioxidants and anthocyanins; anti-aging
- Lemon: Contains citric acid; pH balancing and brightening
Sodium PCA (NMF Amino) Mid-RangeProven
Sodium PCA is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid, one of the most abundant components of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). It is an exceptionally powerful humectant — more hygroscopic than glycerin — that helps maintain skin hydration throughout the cleansing process.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioning
- NMF Component: Naturally found in skin at ~12% of total NMF content
- Evidence: Demonstrated superior moisture-binding capacity vs glycerin in comparative studies
Leontopodium Alpinum (Edelweiss) Extract Lower RangePromising
Edelweiss flower extract from the alpine plant is rich in phenolic compounds, leontopodic acids, and chlorogenic acid — potent antioxidants that help neutralize free radical damage. It also contains compounds with skin-brightening and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidant: High DPPH free radical scavenging activity demonstrated in in-vitro studies
- Brightening: Leontopodic acids studied for inhibiting melanin synthesis pathways
- Skin conditioning: Helps soothe minor inflammation and redness
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) Lower RangeProven
A stabilized ester form of Vitamin E, one of the most well-studied antioxidants in skincare. It protects skin cells from oxidative stress, supports the skin barrier, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties. In a cleanser, it helps condition the skin during and after washing.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin conditioning
- Evidence: Extensive peer-reviewed research confirms skin protective and barrier-supporting activity
- Stability: Acetate ester form is more stable than pure tocopherol in formulas
41 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Acrylates Copolymer, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Sodium PCA, Potassium Cocoate, Sodium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Parfum, DMDM Hydantoin, Gluconolactone, Zea Mays Starch, Mannitol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Mica, Citric Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Leontopodium Alpinum Extract, Malic Acid, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Tartaric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Acer Saccharum Extract, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, CI 77891, CI 77499
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM & PM as the first step of your routine. Because it contains AHAs, always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 15+ sunscreen after morning use. If you use other AHA/BHA leave-on treatments (toner, serum), consider starting with this cleanser only and adding actives gradually to avoid over-exfoliation.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face & Hands
Splash your face with lukewarm water to prepare the skin. Dispense a small amount (about a 10-cent coin size) of the cleanser onto your wet palms.
Lather & Apply
Work the product between your palms with water to create a rich, creamy foam. Gently apply to your face using soft, circular upward motions. Avoid the eye area.
Massage for 30–60 Seconds
Massage gently over the entire face for 30 to 60 seconds to allow the AHA/PHA actives to work on the skin surface and the surfactants to lift impurities. Do not scrub aggressively — the AHAs do the exfoliating work.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water until no foam remains. Pat skin dry gently with a clean towel — do not rub. Proceed immediately with your toner or next skincare step.
Apply Sunscreen (Morning Use)
Because AHAs increase photosensitivity, always complete your morning routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 15 or higher. This is especially important on days when you use this cleanser.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin
- You want gentle daily chemical exfoliation without a separate step
- You deal with dull, uneven skin tone or rough texture
- You're new to AHAs and want a low-commitment introduction
- You have fungal acne and need a confirmed-safe cleanser
- You want a halal-certified and cruelty-free option
- You're looking for a budget-friendly brightening cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (due to DMDM Hydantoin and AHAs)
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin that is fragrance-intolerant
- You already use a potent leave-on AHA/BHA treatment daily (risk of over-exfoliation)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free formulas
- You want a high-concentration AHA treatment (rinse-off actives are milder)
- You have a known allergy to formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAHA exfoliants help unclog pores and regulate excess sebum. The surfactant system effectively removes oil and impurities without leaving a greasy film. Ideal for oily skin types.
Balances the T-zone while conditioning drier cheek areas. NMF amino acids and glycerin prevent the dry patches from becoming overly tight. A well-rounded formula for combination concerns.
Confirmed non-comedogenic (rating 1/5) and fungal acne safe. AHAs help prevent dead cell buildup that leads to breakouts. Gentle enough for daily use without disrupting the skin barrier.
Sodium PCA and glycerin help maintain moisture, but dry skin types may want to follow with a richer moisturizer. AHAs can temporarily increase dryness if the skin barrier is compromised — start with PM use only.
Works seamlessly for normal skin looking to maintain clarity and brightness. The AHA/PHA blend provides a maintenance-level exfoliation to keep skin consistently smooth and luminous.
PHA (gluconolactone) is the gentlest exfoliant in the formula, but Parfum and DMDM Hydantoin may cause reactions in very reactive skin. Patch test first. Consider PM use initially and monitor skin response carefully.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSImmediate Cleansing Clarity
Skin feels thoroughly clean, fresh, and non-tight after rinsing. The mild lather effectively removes makeup residue, sunscreen, and daily impurities. Skin may appear slightly more luminous immediately due to removal of dull surface buildup.
95% notice clean, non-stripped feelingSmoother Texture & Reduced Congestion
Regular AHA exfoliation begins to visibly refine skin texture. Pores appear less congested, minor blackheads may start to improve, and the skin surface feels noticeably smoother to the touch.
70% notice improved textureBrighter, More Even Skin Tone
With consistent use, AHAs and the edelweiss extract work cumulatively to visibly brighten the complexion, reduce the appearance of post-acne dark spots (PIH), and improve overall skin clarity. Fine lines around the forehead may appear softer.
65% notice visible brighteningSustained Clarity & Anti-Aging Benefits
Long-term use of AHAs has been clinically shown to support collagen production and reduce superficial signs of aging. Skin tone becomes more consistently even, with significantly reduced dullness and improved post-blemish recovery speed.
55% notice long-term anti-aging benefitsRatings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 2-in-1 cleansing and exfoliation in a single step
- Fungal acne safe — confirmed by ingredient analysis
- Halal-certified and cruelty-free
- Non-comedogenic formula (rating 1/5)
- NMF Amino (Sodium PCA) prevents post-wash tightness
- Biodegradable moisturebeads — reef safe and eco-conscious
- Multi-fruit AHA complex for natural exfoliation boost
- Edelweiss extract for antioxidant brightening
- Budget-friendly price point for an AHA+PHA cleanser
- Suitable for twice-daily use (AM and PM)
Criticized
- Contains Parfum — not suitable for fragrance-intolerant skin
- DMDM Hydantoin (formaldehyde-releasing preservative) is a concern for some users
- Caution recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- AHAs increase photosensitivity — mandatory SPF use required
- 100 mL bottle is relatively small for twice-daily use
- SLS present — though offset by amino acid surfactants, may still be drying for very dry/compromised skin
- Not suitable for those with severe formaldehyde sensitivity
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Identified by SkinSort as the closest ingredient match with 59% ingredient overlap and 15 shared ingredients. Both contain AHA and Vitamin E. Lacks the PHA gluconolactone and the dedicated NMF amino acid system, but is a serviceable affordable alternative for basic AHA cleansing.
The most community-liked alternative according to SkinSort. Uses BHA (salicylic acid 1%) instead of multi-fruit AHA — better for oily/acne-prone skin with active breakouts. Also contains gluconolactone (PHA) like the Wardah version. Lower-pH formula may be more effective for pore-focused concerns.
Malaysian brand with a comparable PHA + exfoliant formula. Both are fungal acne safe and suitable for sensitive skin, with 8 shared key ingredients. Lacks the multi-fruit AHA complex and edelweiss brightening benefits, but is a solid alternative with a similarly mild surfactant system.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Neogen Dermalogy Real Fresh Foam Cleanser (Green Tea)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the open jar symbol on the packaging for the exact PAO indicated by Wardah.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid bathroom environments where temperature fluctuations could affect the AHA actives and preservative system.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap (100 mL). Hygienic dispensing that protects the formula from contamination and oxidation. The opaque packaging helps protect light-sensitive actives.
Yes — 100 mL meets the standard travel liquid limit (100 mL / 3.4 fl oz) for carry-on luggage. Suitable for travel without decanting.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This cleanser contains AHAs (lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid) and DMDM Hydantoin — a formaldehyde-releasing preservative. Most dermatologists consider rinse-off AHA cleansers relatively low-risk during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption, but DMDM Hydantoin is generally best avoided as a precaution. Always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If approved, restrict use to evenings and always follow with sunscreen in the morning.
Yes — this cleanser is confirmed fungal acne (malassezia) safe. The formula contains no fermented ingredients, Malassezia-feeding fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or triglycerides that are known to exacerbate fungal acne. The surfactant system (Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Decyl Glucoside) and all other ingredients have been vetted and are safe for fungal acne-prone skin. This is one of its most praised attributes by the skincare community.
Yes, but carefully. This cleanser already contains AHAs (lactic acid, glycolic acid) and PHA (gluconolactone), so layering additional leave-on AHA/BHA exfoliants may cause over-exfoliation, redness, and irritation. If you use a retinol or retinoid at night, avoid using this cleanser immediately before — use it in the morning instead, or alternate nights. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is generally compatible as a follow-up serum, though both vitamin C and AHAs can lower skin pH; monitor for any sensitivity. Always introduce new active combinations slowly and patch test first.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, acne-prone, and normal skin types. The AHA/PHA exfoliants effectively address congestion, enlarged pores, uneven texture, and dullness. It is also suitable for those dealing with post-acne dark spots (PIH) and early signs of aging. Dry and sensitive skin types can use it, but should start slowly (once daily in the evening) and closely monitor for signs of irritation or over-dryness. Very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin types should patch test before full-face use.
Results vary by concern. You should feel immediate improvement in skin cleanliness and smoothness from the very first use. Visible improvement in skin texture typically begins within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Brightening effects and reduced dark spot appearance generally become noticeable after 4–8 weeks of regular use. For long-term anti-aging and significant PIH reduction, consistent use of 8–12 weeks is recommended. Remember that as a rinse-off product, the actives have less contact time than leave-on treatments, so patience is key — results are gentler but cumulative.
This cleanser is always the first step in your skincare routine — both morning and evening. Apply it to wet skin, massage gently for 30–60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly before proceeding with the rest of your routine (toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, sunscreen). In the morning, always follow your routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 15+ sunscreen as AHAs increase photosensitivity. Do not use additional exfoliating toners or serums directly after this cleanser without allowing skin to recover, especially when first starting out.
No — this cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it highly unlikely to clog pores. The formula contains no high-comedogenic oils, butters, or waxes. Key ingredients including Decyl Glucoside (rating 0), Glycerin (rating 0), Sodium PCA (rating 0), and the amino acid surfactants are all non-comedogenic. In fact, the AHA actives in this formula actively help prevent pore congestion by exfoliating away dead skin cells that can trap sebum and lead to breakouts. It is a strong choice for acne-prone and pore-conscious skin types.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — meaning the product remains effective and safe to use for one year after you first open it, provided it is stored correctly. Store the tube in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving it in a hot, steamy bathroom. Do not use the product if you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell that differ significantly from when it was first opened. The 100 mL tube size, when used twice daily, typically lasts approximately 2–3 months — well within the 12-month PAO window.
Verdict: The Wardah Crystal Secret NMF Amino + AHA PHA Clarifying Foaming Cleanser is an impressive, well-formulated daily exfoliating cleanser that punches well above its budget-friendly price point. Its dual AHA + PHA exfoliation system — anchored by a natural multi-fruit AHA complex, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and the gentle PHA gluconolactone — delivers genuine clarifying and brightening benefits over consistent use. The inclusion of Sodium PCA as the NMF hero ingredient intelligently counterbalances potential dryness from exfoliation. Halal-certified, cruelty-free, fungal acne safe, reef safe, and non-comedogenic, it checks nearly every modern skincare criteria box. The main considerations are the presence of Parfum and DMDM Hydantoin (a formaldehyde-releasing preservative), which make it less ideal for very sensitive, fragrance-reactive, or pregnant users. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin seeking a single-step brightening and clarifying cleanse, this is an excellent value-driven choice from Indonesia's most trusted halal beauty brand.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|