Cutacnyl 5% Cream
Cutacnyl 5% Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Galderma Cutacnyl 5% Cream is a dermatologist-trusted, pharmacy-grade topical acne treatment formulated with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide — one of the most clinically proven acne-fighting actives available. Developed by Galderma, a global skin health leader, this cream works by releasing oxygen into pores to eliminate acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes), reduce excess sebum, and gently exfoliate dead skin cells. Enhanced with Colloidal Silver for additional antimicrobial action and Sodium Anisate as a natural preservative, it delivers targeted, evidence-based acne control with minimal risk of antibiotic resistance.
Kills Acne Bacteria
5% Benzoyl Peroxide releases oxygen into pores to directly eliminate Cutibacterium acnes bacteria — without triggering antibiotic resistance, unlike topical antibiotics.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne Bacteria
5% Benzoyl Peroxide releases oxygen into pores to directly eliminate Cutibacterium acnes bacteria — without triggering antibiotic resistance, unlike topical antibiotics.
Unclogs & Exfoliates Pores
BPO has mild keratolytic (exfoliating) activity that loosens and removes dead skin cells, helping to clear blocked follicles and prevent new blackheads and whiteheads from forming.
Colloidal Silver Boost
Colloidal Silver provides an additional layer of antimicrobial protection, helping to keep the skin's surface cleaner and potentially extending the antibacterial effect.
Natural Preservation System
Sodium Anisate, derived from anise/fennel, serves as a natural antimicrobial preservative — replacing traditional synthetic preservatives like parabens or phenoxyethanol.
Hydration Support
Glycerin and Propylene Glycol help counteract the inherent drying effect of Benzoyl Peroxide, keeping the skin barrier from becoming overly stripped or tight during treatment.
Galderma Derma Expertise
Formulated by Galderma — the company behind Differin, Cetaphil, and Epiduo — with decades of clinical dermatology research backing every ingredient decision in this cream.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEBenzoyl Peroxide has minimal systemic absorption (~3–5%) and most dermatologists consider it low-risk. However, no large-scale pregnancy-specific trials exist. The AAD recommends concentrations under 5% during pregnancy and advises using leave-on BPO cautiously. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use.
Contains no fatty acids, esters, oils, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe — suitable for those managing pityrosporum folliculitis alongside bacterial acne.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. The formula is oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. Suitable for acne-prone skin without risk of worsening blocked follicles.
Unlike topical antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin), Benzoyl Peroxide works via an oxidative mechanism. Bacteria cannot develop resistance to it, making it suitable for long-term acne management.
Benzoyl Peroxide will bleach fabrics, hair, and coloured towels on contact. Always allow to fully dry before contact with clothing or bedding. Use white pillowcases and towels.
Dryness, redness, and peeling are common during the first 2–4 weeks as skin adjusts. Start with every-other-day application and increase frequency gradually. Always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Confirmed reef safe. Does not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other known reef-damaging chemical UV filters.
BPO may worsen itching and irritation on eczema-affected skin and can trigger rosacea flare-ups. Patch test first and avoid use on actively inflamed eczema or rosacea breakouts.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 5%Proven
The gold-standard OTC acne active, FDA-approved and clinically studied for over 50 years. BPO releases free-radical oxygen directly inside the follicle, creating an environment hostile to Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) bacteria. It also provides mild keratolytic action to shed dead skin cells and reduce sebum within the pore.
- Mechanism: Oxidative killing of anaerobic acne bacteria — no resistance development possible
- Systemic absorption: Only 3–5% absorbed through skin; metabolised to benzoic acid and excreted in urine
- Efficacy: Clinical studies show significant reduction in inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions within 4–8 weeks of twice-daily use
- Concentration: 5% balances maximum efficacy with tolerable irritation risk vs. 2.5% (mild) and 10% (high irritation)
Colloidal Silver tracePromising
Microscopic silver particles suspended in water. Colloidal Silver has well-documented broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, acting as a secondary antibacterial agent that complements BPO's mechanism. Its presence in this formula enhances the cream's overall microbial control on the skin's surface.
- Mechanism: Silver ions disrupt bacterial cell membranes and interfere with enzymatic activity
- Unique to this formula: Not commonly found in standard BPO creams — differentiates Cutacnyl from most competitors
- Safety: At trace cosmetic concentrations, topical colloidal silver is considered safe; not for internal use
Glycerin emollientProven
A humectant that draws moisture from the air into the skin, helping to offset the drying effects inherent to Benzoyl Peroxide treatment. Glycerin also has scientifically validated antimicrobial and antiviral properties, contributing to the formula's overall infection-control profile.
- Role: Humectant — attracts and binds water in the stratum corneum
- Benefit here: Counteracts BPO-induced transepidermal water loss, reducing flaking and tightness
- Source: Typically plant-derived (soybean or palm)
Carbomer baseProven
A synthetic polymer used as a thickening, gelling, and stabilising agent. Carbomer gives the cream its smooth, spreadable consistency and helps suspend BPO particles evenly throughout the formula, ensuring consistent active delivery with every application.
- Function: Rheology modifier — controls viscosity and texture of the finished product
- Safety: Well-established cosmetic ingredient with excellent safety record across all skin types
Methacrylic Acid/Styrene/VP Copolymer film-formerProven
A synthetic film-forming polymer that helps stabilise the BPO in the cream matrix and may contribute to controlled, sustained release of the active ingredient on the skin surface. It also contributes to the smooth skin-feel and helps the cream adhere to skin without excessive residue.
- Function: Film-former and stabiliser for active ingredient dispersion
- Benefit: Potentially supports more even, prolonged BPO activity on the skin surface
Sodium Anisate preservativeProven
A natural salt derived from anise (fennel). Sodium Anisate functions as a natural antimicrobial preservative, replacing synthetic preservatives like parabens. It keeps the formula stable and free from microbial contamination throughout its shelf life, making this formula notably clean from a preservative standpoint.
- Source: Derived from anisic acid found in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and anise (Pimpinella anisum)
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated; considered a cleaner, low-irritation alternative to traditional preservatives
Poloxamer 182 emulsifierProven
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier that helps blend the water and oil-soluble components of the formula into a stable, homogeneous cream. Poloxamers are biocompatible and widely used in pharmaceutical formulations due to their excellent safety and skin tolerability.
- Function: Emulsifier and solubiliser — stabilises the cream emulsion
- Fungal acne: Confirmed fungal acne safe — does not feed Malassezia yeast
Propylene Glycol humectantProven
A small molecule humectant and solvent that attracts water into the skin and enhances the penetration of active ingredients. Works synergistically with glycerin to maintain skin hydration during BPO treatment, helping to offset dryness without clogging pores.
- Function: Humectant + penetration enhancer
- Note: High concentrations can irritate sensitive skin; at typical formulation levels, well-tolerated
12 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide, Carbomer, Methacrylic Acid/Styrene/Vp Copolymer, Sodium Anisate, Water, Glycerin, Poloxamer 182, Propylene Glycol, Colloidal Silver, Sodium Hydroxide, Acetic Acid, Acid Yellow 73 Sodium Salt
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning on clean, dry skin. Always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to minimise BPO-induced dryness. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as BPO increases photosensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser and pat completely dry. BPO should be applied to dry skin to reduce the risk of irritation and to maximise its stability on the skin surface.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a small pea-sized amount and apply a thin, even layer to the affected areas — forehead, chin, cheeks, or wherever breakouts occur. Avoid the eye area, lips, and nostrils. Less is more: a thin layer is more effective and less irritating than a thick application.
Allow Full Absorption
Wait approximately 60 seconds for the cream to fully absorb before applying other products. This prevents dilution of the active and reduces the risk of product pilling.
Follow With Moisturizer
Apply a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free moisturizer to counteract BPO dryness. This step is essential, especially in the first 4 weeks. Look for moisturizers containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid.
Use SPF Every Morning
Benzoyl Peroxide increases photosensitivity. Apply SPF 30+ every morning as the final step of your AM routine, even on cloudy days, to protect skin and prevent post-acne hyperpigmentation.
Build Up Gradually
Start with every other day application for the first 1–2 weeks. Once skin has adjusted and tolerance is established, progress to once daily (PM recommended), then twice daily if needed and tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne (papules, pustules)
- You've tried other topical treatments without success
- You have oily or combination acne-prone skin
- You want to avoid antibiotic resistance
- You also deal with fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis)
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean-formula derma products
- You're following a dermatologist-recommended acne regimen
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or severely sensitive / reactive skin
- You have active eczema or rosacea breakouts
- You're pregnant and prefer a confirmed-safe alternative (consult your doctor first)
- You need a product to target post-acne dark spots or PIH (consider niacinamide or azelaic acid instead)
- You primarily deal with non-inflammatory comedones (blackheads/whiteheads) — retinoids may be more effective
- You travel frequently and need a large-size tube
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. BPO directly targets excess sebum and bacteria. Oil-free, matte-finish formula won't contribute to shine or greasiness. Best skin type for this product.
Works very well. Apply to T-zone and breakout-prone areas only. The glycerin and propylene glycol help maintain hydration in drier zones.
Precisely formulated for this skin type. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and targeting the root bacterial cause of breakouts. A cornerstone treatment for acne management.
Effective for spot treatment of occasional breakouts. Start with every-other-day use and always moisturise after to prevent over-drying of otherwise balanced skin.
Use with extra caution. BPO is inherently drying. Pair with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturizer and limit to every-other-day use. A 2.5% BPO formula may be a better starting point.
Patch test is mandatory. The formula is fragrance-free and preservative-clean, which helps. However, 5% BPO can cause redness and stinging on reactive skin. Start very slowly and avoid broken skin.
Results timeline
MONTHS 3–6Adjustment & Initial Response
Some initial dryness, mild redness, or peeling may occur as skin adjusts to BPO. This is a normal purging-type response. Reduce frequency if irritation is significant. Some users notice existing spots appearing slightly more prominent during this phase.
~70% experience some drynessBacterial Reduction & First Clearance
Active bacteria counts in follicles begin to drop significantly. New inflammatory lesions (papules/pustules) should start appearing less frequently. Existing breakouts reduce in size and redness more quickly. Most users notice measurable improvement by week 4.
~60% see visible reduction in active lesionsSignificant Acne Clearance
Clinical trials with BPO 5% show significant reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions by week 8. Skin texture begins to improve. Pore-clogging is reduced. Consistency of application is key during this window.
~75% notice major improvement by week 8Maintenance & Skin Refinement
With continued use, breakouts are largely controlled and preventative. Some users transition to maintenance use (3–4x per week) at this stage. Post-acne marks may begin to fade, aided by the exfoliating action of BPO. Skin appears clearer and more even-toned overall.
~85% achieve long-term breakout controlRatings by platform
REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven 5% BPO active — no resistance possible
- Unique Colloidal Silver addition for extra antimicrobial action
- Completely fragrance-free and paraben-free
- Fungal acne (Malassezia) safe — rare for an acne cream
- Natural Sodium Anisate preservation system (no synthetic preservatives)
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula
- Made by Galderma — trusted global dermatology brand
- Reef safe formulation
- Effective for both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne
- Clean, simple 12-ingredient list
Criticized
- Can cause dryness, redness and peeling — especially at first
- Bleaches fabrics, towels, and hair on contact
- Not the best choice for very dry or highly sensitive skin
- Small 40g tube — short duration of use for full-face application
- Does not address post-acne hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice
- Increases photosensitivity — requires daily SPF use
- Limited availability outside Europe / pharmacy channels
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The closest dupe — also a Galderma product with 5% BPO. Shares 10 ingredients with Cutacnyl 5% Cream. Fungal acne safe, fragrance-free, and reef safe. Gel texture instead of cream — better for very oily skin. Widely available at UK and European pharmacies.
Another Galderma-family product with 5% BPO. Shares the core BPO active with additional Carbomer, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, and Propylene Glycol. Fragrance-free and fungal acne safe. Widely available globally including Australia and the US. Gel rather than cream texture.
A much lower BPO concentration (2.5% vs 5%) making it significantly gentler and better for sensitive or dry skin starting out. Excellent for those who find 5% BPO too irritating. Very affordable price point. Lacks the Colloidal Silver and Sodium Anisate premium of Cutacnyl. Widely available globally.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Paula's Choice Clear Regular Strength (BPO 2.5%)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard after this period as BPO potency degrades over time, reducing efficacy against acne bacteria.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat (below 25°C / 77°F). Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Aluminium tube with screw cap — protects BPO from light and air oxidation which would degrade the active ingredient. Hygienic and precise for application.
Yes — 40g tube is under the 100ml liquid restriction for carry-on luggage. Tube format is compact and leak-resistant for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl Peroxide has minimal systemic absorption (approximately 3–5% through the skin) and is metabolised to benzoic acid, a common food additive, before being excreted in urine. Most dermatologists and the AAD consider BPO relatively low-risk during pregnancy when used in concentrations of 5% or lower. However, no large-scale, pregnancy-specific clinical trials have been conducted. The AAD recommends leaving BPO on the skin for as short a time as possible during pregnancy (i.e., wash-off or short-contact use) and preferring concentrations under 5%. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before continuing or starting Cutacnyl 5% Cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. There is no data on BPO transfer into breast milk.
Yes — Cutacnyl 5% Cream is confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. This makes it one of the few acne treatments suitable for people who deal with both bacterial and fungal acne simultaneously. This is a notable advantage over many moisturising acne creams that contain ingredients like polysorbate 80, fatty alcohols, or plant oils.
Use with caution when layering with other actives. Retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene): avoid applying both at the same time — BPO can oxidise and inactivate retinoids, and the combination significantly increases irritation risk. Use one in the AM and the other in the PM, or on alternating nights. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid): similarly, BPO can oxidise Vitamin C and reduce its efficacy — separate use by AM/PM is recommended. AHA/BHA exfoliants: combining with glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid in the same routine step is not recommended as over-exfoliation and barrier damage can result. Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated alongside BPO and can help with redness and post-acne marks. When introducing Cutacnyl, simplify your routine first and reintroduce other actives gradually once skin has adjusted.
Cutacnyl 5% Cream is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. These skin types tolerate BPO well, and the formula's oil-free, matte-finish properties are particularly well-matched to those with excess sebum production. Normal skin can also benefit when using it for targeted spot treatment. Dry and sensitive skin types can use this product but should proceed with extra caution: start with every-other-day use, apply a generous non-comedogenic moisturizer after, and consider starting with a lower-strength BPO (2.5%) first. Avoid use on actively irritated eczema or rosacea-affected areas.
Results vary by individual, but here is a general timeline based on clinical BPO 5% data and user experience: Weeks 1–2: skin adjustment period — some dryness and initial response is normal. Weeks 2–4: new breakouts should start appearing less frequently; existing spots clear faster. Weeks 4–8: significant reduction in both inflammatory (papules, pustules) and non-inflammatory (blackheads) lesions — this is the key clinical window. Months 3–6: long-term maintenance and near-clearance for many users. Consistency is critical — BPO only works while it is being used. Stopping treatment typically leads to breakout recurrence within weeks.
Cutacnyl 5% Cream should be applied as a treatment step after cleansing and toning, and before serums and moisturizer. The full recommended routine order is: (1) Gentle Cleanser → (2) Toner (optional) → (3) Cutacnyl 5% Cream (on dry skin) → (4) Wait 60 seconds to absorb → (5) Serum (optional) → (6) Non-comedogenic Moisturizer → (7) SPF 30+ (AM only). The moisturizer step after Cutacnyl is essential, not optional, as BPO is inherently drying. In the PM routine, you can omit SPF but always apply moisturizer.
No — Cutacnyl 5% Cream is non-comedogenic with a comedogenicity rating of 1 out of 5. The formula is completely oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, Benzoyl Peroxide actively helps to unclog pores by exfoliating dead skin cells (keratolytic action) and reducing sebum within the follicle. The absence of oils, silicones, and fatty esters also confirms its suitability for acne-prone skin without risk of worsening blocked pores.
Cutacnyl 5% Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After this time, the Benzoyl Peroxide active degrades and its antibacterial potency decreases, reducing the treatment's effectiveness against acne-causing bacteria. For optimal results, always replace the product within 12 months of opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat (below 25°C), as heat and light accelerate BPO degradation. The aluminium tube packaging helps protect the formula from oxidation.
Verdict: Galderma Cutacnyl 5% Cream is a highly effective, pharmacy-trusted acne treatment that delivers the gold standard of OTC acne care — 5% Benzoyl Peroxide — in a clean, fragrance-free, fungal-acne-safe cream format. What sets it apart from generic BPO products is the addition of Colloidal Silver for enhanced antimicrobial action and a natural Sodium Anisate preservation system. The 12-ingredient formula is deliberately minimal, free from parabens, silicones, oils, and synthetic fragrances. It is ideal for oily and combination acne-prone skin and works best as part of a consistent, twice-daily regimen supported by a non-comedogenic moisturizer and daily SPF. The primary limitations are the inherent drying effect of 5% BPO (manageable with proper moisturization), the risk of fabric bleaching, and a tube size (40g) that may not last long for full-face users. Overall, Cutacnyl 5% Cream represents exceptional value in the derma-pharmacy acne treatment category and is worthy of its reputation among dermatologists worldwide.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Methacrylic Acid/Styrene/Vp Copolymer
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Anisate
Antimicrobial, Flavoring Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|