Custom Cleanser
Custom Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A truly personalized, AI-powered gel cleanser by Prose — crafted from 15 million+ possible formula combinations to match your exact skin type, goals, and environment. Formulated at a low pH to support a healthy skin barrier, preserve hydration, and gently cleanse without stripping. Dermatologist co-developed, vegan, cruelty-free, and made fresh to order in Brooklyn, NY.
AI-Personalized Formula
Over 15 million possible formula combinations. Your cleanser is built from your unique skin consultation — no two formulas are exactly alike.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAI-Personalized Formula
Over 15 million possible formula combinations. Your cleanser is built from your unique skin consultation — no two formulas are exactly alike.
Low pH Barrier Support
Formulated at a skin-friendly low pH to preserve the acid mantle, support the microbiome, and prevent post-cleanse dryness or tightness.
Hydration-Preserving Surfactants
Amino acid-based and glucoside surfactants (Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Decyl Glucoside) cleanse effectively without depleting the skin's natural moisture.
Barrier-Boosting Actives
Xylitol + Xylitylglucoside + Anhydroxylitol (the XyliGlucan complex) clinically shown to strengthen barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss.
Niacinamide for Clarity
Vitamin B3 brightens uneven tone, minimizes pore appearance, controls sebum, and provides anti-inflammatory benefits — even in a rinse-off format.
Made Fresh to Order
Bottled in Brooklyn, NY, on-demand. No sitting in a warehouse for months — your formula ships fresh with maximum ingredient potency.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All surfactants and actives are considered safe for use during pregnancy and nursing. Always consult your OB-GYN if in doubt.
The formula is free from fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia. All surfactants present (glucosides, sarcosinates, taurates) are fungal-acne compatible in rinse-off format.
Every ingredient in the Prose skincare line is vetted to be non-comedogenic. No pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Safe for acne-prone and congested skin.
Clinically tested on sensitive skin (22 subjects, 4-week study). Over 90% reported skin felt clean, smooth, and soft without dryness or irritation. Free of the top 10 common allergens.
As a rinse-off cleanser with no AHAs, BHAs, or strong actives of its own, it is safe to use before applying retinol, vitamin C serums, or other potent actives in your routine.
Hexylene Glycol is present at a low concentration typical for rinse-off formulas. It is generally well-tolerated, though those with very reactive skin may wish to patch test first.
No parabens, phthalates, BPA, BHT, PFAS, benzophenone, or triclosan. Certified Teen SAFE by SkinSAFE standards.
No animal-derived ingredients. Never tested on animals. Certified cruelty-free. Packaged in BPA-free recyclable plastic made with 50% post-consumer recycled materials.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60–70%Base
The primary solvent and vehicle for all active ingredients. High-purity water ensures formula stability, smooth application, and optimal ingredient delivery to the skin surface.
- Function: Solvent, carrier, hydration vehicle
- Position: First ingredient — highest concentration in formula
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate 3–8%Proven
A mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. Provides gentle, effective cleansing and foam enhancement while being significantly gentler than traditional sulfates. Helps condition the skin during cleansing.
- Source: Coconut-derived amino acid surfactant
- Benefit: Reduces irritation potential vs. SLS by up to 70%
- Fungal Acne: Safe in rinse-off format
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate 2–5%Proven
An amino acid-based (sarcosine-derived) surfactant that cleanses, foams, and emulsifies while maintaining skin's natural moisture levels. Confirmed non-irritating and non-sensitizing in safety assessments up to 15% in rinse-off products.
- Source: Coconut-derived amino acid (sarcosine) surfactant
- pH Compatibility: Works best at low/acidic pH — perfect for barrier-support formulas
- Safety: Confirmed non-irritating at rinse-off concentrations (CIR Expert Panel)
Glycerin 2–5%Proven
One of the most well-researched humectants in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin, prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and supports the skin microbiome. Keeps skin feeling soft and plump even after cleansing.
- Mechanism: Binds water molecules via hydrogen bonding in the stratum corneum
- Clinical: Reduces TEWL and improves skin hydration measurably within 30 minutes
- Microbiome: Supports beneficial Staphylococcus epidermidis colonization
Decyl Glucoside 1–4%Proven
A plant-derived (typically corn and coconut) non-ionic surfactant known for its exceptional mildness. Frequently used in baby and sensitive-skin products. Biodegradable, EWG-certified safe, and compatible with virtually all skin types.
- Origin: Corn glucose + coconut fatty alcohol
- Certifications: Ecocert and COSMOS approved natural ingredient
- Irritation: Among the lowest-irritation surfactants — comparable to plain water at use levels
Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate 1–3%Proven
An amino acid-derived (taurine-based) surfactant from oleic acid. Provides exceptional skin feel, creamy lather, and acts as a mild emulsifier. Helps the cleanser rinse off completely without leaving residue. A hallmark ingredient of Prose's "gentle cleanse" claim.
- Class: Acyl taurate — among the mildest anionic surfactant families
- Benefit: Synergizes with Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate for enhanced mildness
Xylitylglucoside + Anhydroxylitol + Xylitol 0.5–2% combinedProven
The XyliGlucan Complex — three synergistic sugars that together mimic the skin's natural "aquaporin" water channels, strengthen tight junctions, and clinically reduce TEWL. Published studies show measurable improvements in barrier function and hydration within 4 weeks.
- Clinical: Peer-reviewed studies show barrier reinforcement comparable to ceramide treatments
- Mechanism: Upregulates aquaporin-3 expression in keratinocytes
- Source: Birch tree-derived xylitol derivatives
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1–2%Proven
One of the most versatile and well-researched skincare actives. Even at lower concentrations in a rinse-off formula, niacinamide contributes anti-inflammatory, sebum-regulating, and antioxidant effects. Enhances ceramide synthesis for long-term barrier benefit.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits transfer of melanosomes; reduces redness and blotchiness
- Barrier: Stimulates ceramide and fatty acid synthesis in epidermis
- Acne: Comparable to 4% erythromycin in reducing inflammatory lesions (published trial)
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) 0.5–1%Proven
A precursor to pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) that penetrates deeply into the epidermis and converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. Provides moisturizing, soothing, and wound-healing benefits. Helps reduce post-cleanse tightness and supports barrier recovery.
- Mechanism: Binds water in the stratum corneum; accelerates epithelialization
- Sensitivity: Anti-irritant — shown to reduce stinging and burning sensation
Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract 0.1–0.5%Promising
A natural AHA-containing extract from lemon fruit, providing gentle brightening and mild exfoliation from naturally occurring citric acid. Rich in vitamin C and bioflavonoids with antioxidant properties. Contributes to the cleanser's ability to even skin tone with regular use.
- Actives: Contains citric acid, hesperidin, vitamin C precursors
- Benefit: Brightening, mild exfoliation, antioxidant protection
Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi Mushroom) Stem Extract 0.1–0.3%Promising
Extract from Reishi mushroom (the "mushroom of immortality"), rich in beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids. Provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-softening benefits. Highlighted by Prose as a key differentiating ingredient for fine line support.
- Beta-glucans: Stimulate collagen production and wound healing
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and reduces oxidative stress in skin cells
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α)
Polylysine 0.05–0.2%Promising
A naturally fermented antimicrobial peptide derived from Streptomyces albulus. Functions as a gentle, broad-spectrum preservative and has mild anti-acne properties by inhibiting Cutibacterium acnes proliferation without disrupting the beneficial skin microbiome.
- Function: Natural preservative + mild antimicrobial peptide
- Safety: Used in food preservation globally — very low irritation potential
- Acne: Inhibitory activity against C. acnes at low concentrations
27 ingredients
Water, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Disodium Coco-Glucoside Citrate, Citric Acid, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Chloride, Xylitylglucoside, Hexylene Glycol, Capryloyl Glycine, Niacinamide, Anhydroxylitol, Sodium Coco-Glucoside Tartrate, Arginine, Sodium Benzoate, Xylitol, Propanediol, Glucose, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum Stem Extract, Panthenol, Polylysine, Pantolactone
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse twice daily — morning and evening. Always the first step. Apply to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse with lukewarm water. Follow immediately with your serum and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for best hydration results.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it strips the skin's natural oils and disrupts the acid mantle. A gentle stream works best.
Dispense and Apply
Pump 1–2 pumps of cleanser into wet palms. Work into a light lather, then apply to face with gentle circular motions. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Massage for 30–60 Seconds
Spend at least 30 seconds massaging the cleanser into your skin. This ensures thorough removal of makeup, SPF, sebum, and environmental pollutants. The formula is effective at dissolving light-to-medium makeup.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm or cool water until no product remains. The low-pH formula helps preserve your acid mantle during rinsing. A cool water final rinse can help close pores.
Pat Dry and Follow Up
Gently pat — do not rub — with a clean, soft towel. Immediately follow with your Prose Custom Serum and Moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a truly personalized cleanser formulated for your skin type and goals
- Your skin gets tight, dry, or irritated after cleansing with standard face washes
- You have sensitive, acne-prone, or barrier-compromised skin
- You prefer fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and clean formulas
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want a safe, vetted formula
- You're prone to fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) and need a safe daily cleanser
- You use potent actives (retinol, AHAs) and need a non-disruptive cleanser base
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a heavy-duty makeup remover — pair with a separate micellar water or cleansing balm for full-coverage makeup
- You prefer a rich, creamy lather experience over a lightweight gel
- You want an off-the-shelf product available immediately at a store
- You have a very specific known allergy and need to review every possible formula variation before purchase
- Budget is a primary concern — drugstore alternatives exist at lower price points
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAmino acid and glucoside surfactants cut through excess sebum effectively without over-stripping, helping balance oil production over time rather than triggering rebound oiliness.
Glycerin, Panthenol, and the XyliGlucan barrier complex work together to prevent moisture loss during cleansing. Skin feels soft and comfortable — not tight — after rinsing.
Balanced formula addresses oilier zones without dehydrating drier patches. The AI personalization particularly excels at dialing in the right formula for combination skin's competing needs.
Clinically tested on sensitive skin. Free from the top allergens including fragrances, sulfates, and harsh preservatives. Fragrance-free option available. Patch test recommended for highly reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and contains Niacinamide + Polylysine for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial support. Ideal daily base for acne management routines.
Reishi mushroom extract and barrier-strengthening XyliGlucan complex address early signs of aging. For advanced anti-aging concerns, pair with a dedicated Prose Custom Serum containing bakuchiol or peptides.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediately Cleaner, Softer Skin
Even after the first wash, skin feels cleaner and softer without the tight, stripped sensation of traditional cleansers. Makeup, SPF, and sebum are effectively removed with no residue left behind.
95% noticed softer skin immediately (clinical study)Reduced Post-Cleanse Dryness
The barrier-supporting surfactant blend begins showing its advantage over standard cleansers — skin feels balanced throughout the day with less compensatory oil production. Redness and irritation from cleansing decrease noticeably.
90%+ reported skin felt clean, smooth, and non-dry (4-week study)Measurable Barrier Strengthening
The XyliGlucan complex begins to demonstrate its clinically backed barrier-repair effects. Reduced transepidermal water loss, more even moisture distribution, and a healthier skin texture become evident. This aligns with the average 28-day skin cycle.
86% noted reduced oily residue; improved makeup-free appearanceBrighter Tone, Clearer Complexion
Niacinamide and Lemon Fruit Extract begin delivering visible brightening and pore-minimizing effects. Skin tone appears more even, inflammatory breakouts decrease, and the overall complexion looks healthier with consistent twice-daily use.
82%+ report more even complexion and reduced blemishes (Prose clinical data)Ratings by platform
24K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Truly personalized AI-driven formula — adapts to your unique skin profile
- Leaves skin feeling clean without tight, stripped sensation
- Clinically tested on sensitive skin with strong safety record
- Fungal-acne safe and pregnancy-safe formula
- XyliGlucan barrier complex clinically strengthens skin over 4 weeks
- Niacinamide + Lemon Extract deliver visible brightening with continued use
- Made fresh to order — maximum ingredient potency
- CEW Award winner (2024) — recognized by industry experts
- Sustainable: carbon-neutral brand, recyclable PCR packaging
- Co-developed with dermatologists and cosmetic chemists
Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives ($24.65+)
- Made-to-order means 13–20 day lead time before first shipment
- Gel texture may not satisfy those who prefer cream or balm cleansers
- Not available in stores — online only with consultation required
- May not sufficiently remove heavy, waterproof makeup alone
- Subscription management dashboard can be unintuitive (reported by some users)
- Occasional ingredient shortages can delay orders
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares the gentle, non-stripping philosophy and barrier-supportive ceramide + hyaluronic acid complex. Lacks personalization and advanced actives like Niacinamide and XyliGlucan, but is an excellent fragrance-free, non-comedogenic daily cleanser at a fraction of the price.
French pharmacy formulation with a very comparable gentle-cleanse profile. Contains Niacinamide, is fragrance-free, and has an excellent sensitive-skin track record. Lacks the XyliGlucan barrier complex and personalization, but widely available and dermatologist-recommended.
Ultra-minimal formula ideal for very reactive, allergy-prone, or eczema-compromised skin. Completely fragrance-free, dye-free, and preservative-minimized. More basic than the Prose formula — lacks actives like Niacinamide, Reishi, or the XyliGlucan complex — but an outstanding safety profile for the most sensitive skin types.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Function of Beauty Custom Face Cleanser
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The formula contains Sodium Benzoate + Polylysine as a dual-preservation system effective for 12 months post-opening with proper storage.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid storing in a steamy shower environment to maintain preservative efficacy.
BPA-free pump bottle (150 mL). Made with 50% post-consumer recycled plastic. The pump dispenser keeps the formula hygienic and prevents contamination. Fully recyclable curbside.
At 150 mL (5.07 fl oz), the standard bottle exceeds TSA liquid limits. Transfer to a travel-size bottle (under 100 mL) for carry-on compliance. Available for checked baggage as-is.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Prose Custom Cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, retinyl palmitate), salicylic acid above safe concentrations, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All surfactants (Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Decyl Glucoside) and actives (Niacinamide, Panthenol, Glycerin, XyliGlucan complex) are on the approved safety list for pregnancy. As always, consult your obstetrician or midwife if you have specific concerns about individual ingredients.
Yes — this formula is fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The cleanser contains no fermented ingredients, oils, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or other substrates that feed Malassezia yeast. All surfactants present — amino acid-based and glucoside types — have been verified safe for fungal-acne prone skin in rinse-off format. Niacinamide and Polylysine additionally provide antimicrobial support. This makes the Prose Custom Cleanser an excellent choice for anyone managing pityrosporum folliculitis or fungal-acne-prone skin as part of their routine.
Absolutely. The Prose Custom Cleanser is a rinse-off formula with no strong exfoliating acids, high-potency retinoids, or vitamin C that would conflict with other actives. It is the ideal first step before applying retinol, L-ascorbic acid vitamin C serums, AHA (glycolic, lactic) or BHA (salicylic acid) treatments. The low-pH formula actually helps set your skin at an optimal acidic pH before applying pH-dependent actives like vitamin C (most effective below pH 3.5). Simply cleanse, rinse, and layer your active-containing serum or treatment as the next step.
The Prose Custom Cleanser is formulated to work well for all skin types — including oily, dry, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone. The AI personalization process tailors the exact formula composition (surfactant blend ratios, active ingredient selection, texture) to your specific skin type and goals. Clinical testing was conducted specifically on sensitive skin, where it received excellent results. It is particularly well-suited for those who have struggled to find a cleanser that doesn't leave their skin feeling tight, dry, or irritated.
Many users notice improved skin feel — less tightness, better softness — from the very first use. For measurable barrier and hydration improvements, Prose recommends at least 4 weeks of consistent use, which corresponds to one full skin cell turnover cycle (approximately 28 days). The XyliGlucan barrier complex shows documented efficacy at the 4-week mark. For brightening effects from Niacinamide and Lemon Fruit Extract, expect to see visible improvements in skin tone and clarity after 8–12 weeks of regular twice-daily use. Consistency is key — use morning and evening without skipping.
The Prose Custom Cleanser is always the first step in your skincare routine — both morning and evening. In the morning: Cleanser → Toner/Essence (optional) → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. In the evening: Cleanser (or double-cleanse if wearing heavy makeup/SPF) → Toner/Essence → Treatment Serum (retinol, vitamin C, etc.) → Moisturizer. Apply to damp skin, massage for 30–60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Apply your next products while skin is still slightly damp to maximize absorption and hydration retention.
No — the Prose Custom Cleanser is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). Prose explicitly states that every ingredient in their skincare line is vetted to be non-comedogenic before inclusion. The formula contains no heavy waxes, occlusive oils, or high-rating comedogenic emollients. It is safe for acne-prone, congested, and pore-sensitive skin types. The Niacinamide content additionally helps regulate sebum production and minimize pore appearance with regular use, further supporting clear skin.
The Prose Custom Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within 12 months for best results and full preservative efficacy. The formula uses a dual preservation system (Sodium Benzoate + Polylysine) that maintains safety and potency for the full 12-month window when stored correctly. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving the bottle open for extended periods or storing in a humid shower environment, as this can compromise the preservative system over time.
Verdict: The Prose Custom Cleanser stands apart in a crowded market by delivering genuine, AI-powered personalization backed by sound cosmetic chemistry. The combination of amino acid and glucoside surfactants creates an exceptionally gentle cleansing experience, while the XyliGlucan barrier complex, Niacinamide, Reishi mushroom extract, and Panthenol provide meaningful active-ingredient benefits beyond basic cleansing. Clinically tested on sensitive skin and confirmed safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal-acne prone individuals, it's one of the most comprehensively vetted cleansers available. The main trade-offs are the premium price point and made-to-order lead times — but for those who have struggled to find a cleanser that truly works for their specific skin, the personalization alone justifies the investment.A top pick for sensitive, acne-prone, or barrier-compromised skin.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 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 |
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate
Emulsifying
|
|