Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36
Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing chemical sunscreen powered by Jeju Green Tea, Centella Asiatica (Cica), and Sunflower Seed Oil — delivering invisible broad-spectrum SPF 36 protection with a fresh, dewy-glow finish and zero white cast. The perfect everyday face sunscreen for all skin tones.
Broad Spectrum UVA + UVB Protection
Triple-filter system (Avobenzone 2.5% + Homosalate 7% + Octisalate 4.3%) defends against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays, with Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene as a photostabilizer to keep Avobenzone effective longer.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad Spectrum UVA + UVB Protection
Triple-filter system (Avobenzone 2.5% + Homosalate 7% + Octisalate 4.3%) defends against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays, with Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene as a photostabilizer to keep Avobenzone effective longer.
Jeju Green Tea Antioxidant Complex
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract sourced from Jeju Island deliver powerful polyphenol antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and help calm post-sun skin stress.
Cica (Centella Asiatica) Soothing
Centella Asiatica Extract soothes visible redness and irritation, making this formula gentle enough for reactive and sensitive-leaning skin types seeking daily sun protection.
Sunflower Seed Oil Nourishment
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil delivers lightweight linoleic-rich moisture without greasiness, reinforcing the skin barrier and contributing to the signature dewy, non-sticky finish.
Invisible, No White Cast Finish
Polymethylsilsesquioxane and Cyclopentasiloxane create a silky, blendable texture that disappears on all skin tones. In brand testing, 86% of participants reported zero white cast after a single use.
Makeup-Compatible, No Pilling
The Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 network provides a smooth, stable base that layers seamlessly under foundation or tinted moisturizer without balling up or pilling throughout the day.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. This is a chemical (organic) sunscreen containing Homosalate (7%), Avobenzone (2.5%), and Octisalate (4.3%). In-vitro studies have shown Homosalate may have weak estrogenic activity. While no proven harm in real-world conditions, many OBGYNs recommend opting for mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Not considered fungal-acne safe. Contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, and fatty alcohols (Cetyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol). Those with active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) should choose a mineral sunscreen with a simpler ingredient list.
Free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate — the two UV filters most associated with coral reef damage. This product meets the requirements to be sold in Hawaii-compliant areas (excluding Maui County, which bans all chemical UV filters).
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The formula is predominantly water-based and uses non-pore-clogging silicones and lightweight polymers. While fatty alcohols are present, they appear lower on the ingredient list. Most reviewers with acne-prone skin report no breakouts from regular use.
Preserved with Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin — a widely accepted, well-tolerated system. Also free from phthalates, mineral oil, and coal tar. No formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
Contains Fragrance/Parfum, Limonene, and Linalool — all listed EU allergens at concentrations requiring declaration. Those with fragrance-sensitive or highly reactive skin should patch test before full-face application. The scent is described as mild and fades quickly after application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane) 2.5%Proven
The gold-standard UVA filter available in the United States and globally. Avobenzone is the only broadly accessible chemical filter with full UVA1 and UVA2 coverage (310–400 nm, peak at 360 nm), essential for preventing photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and long-term UV-related skin damage.
- Protection Range: Full UVA1 + UVA2 spectrum (310–400 nm)
- Max US Permitted Concentration: 3% (this formula uses 2.5%)
- Photostability: Stabilized by Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene and Butyloctyl Salicylate in this formula
- Regulatory Status: FDA-approved in the US; globally approved
Homosalate 7.0%Proven
A UVB filter (295–315 nm) and the highest-concentration active in this formula. Its primary value in this formulation is as a liquid solvent that helps dissolve and stabilize Avobenzone and other solid UV filters, improving the overall cosmetic elegance and SPF efficiency of the blend.
- Protection Range: UVB (295–315 nm, peak at 306 nm)
- Max US Permitted Concentration: 15% (this formula uses 7%)
- Key Role: Solubilizes solid filters; broadens SPF coverage
Octisalate (Ethylhexyl Salicylate) 4.3%Proven
A secondary UVB filter that broadens the formula's UVB absorption range and also acts as an Avobenzone solubilizer and photostabilizer. It has an excellent safety profile, is non-irritating, and contributes to the lightweight, non-greasy skin feel of the final formula.
- Protection Range: UVB (280–320 nm, peak at 306 nm)
- Max US Permitted Concentration: 5% (this formula uses 4.3%)
- Safety Profile: Low irritation potential; widely used in facial sunscreens
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract ~trace–1%Proven
Innisfree's signature Jeju Island Green Tea Extract is rich in EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and other polyphenolic antioxidants. It neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollutants, provides gentle calming properties, and supports the skin barrier.
- Key Actives: EGCG, epicatechin, catechins, quercetin
- Benefits: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing
- Source: Jeju Island, South Korea — Innisfree-exclusive cultivation
Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica) ~trace–1%Promising
Cica has become a cornerstone of K-beauty for its powerful soothing and barrier-repairing properties. Centella Asiatica contains asiaticoside, madecassoside, and asiatic acid, which collectively calm redness, support wound healing, and strengthen the skin's protective barrier against environmental stressors.
- Key Actives: Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Asiatic Acid, Betulinic Acid
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, barrier-strengthening, redness-reducing
- Clinical Support: Used in wound care and post-procedure skincare worldwide
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil ~trace–0.5%Proven
A lightweight, linoleic acid-rich oil that nourishes without comedogenic risk. Sunflower seed oil reinforces the ceramide barrier and delivers a subtle dewy glow to the skin. Paired with Sunflower Seed Oil Unsaponifiables (phytosterols, squalene) for enhanced barrier protection.
- Fatty Acid Profile: ~65–75% linoleic acid (omega-6), ~15–20% oleic acid
- Comedogenic Rating: 0–1 (non-comedogenic)
- Benefits: Emollient, barrier-supporting, anti-inflammatory
Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene ~1–3%Proven
A photostabilizer marketed as an alternative to Octocrylene. It prevents Avobenzone from degrading when exposed to UV light, dramatically extending the effectiveness of UVA protection throughout the day. It also acts as an emollient and SPF booster, improving the overall formulation elegance.
- Primary Function: Photostabilizer for Avobenzone
- Also Functions As: SPF booster, emollient, Zinc Oxide/TiO2 dispersant
- Safety: Well-tolerated; no significant endocrine or photoreactivity concerns identified
41 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.5%, Homosalate 7.0%, Octisalate 4.3%.
Inactive Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Cetyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Phenoxyethanol, Propanediol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Octyldodecanol, Fragrance/Parfum, Xanthan Gum, Centella Asiatica Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, T-Butyl Alcohol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Linalool, Ethylhexylglycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Opuntia Coccinellifera Fruit Extract, Orchid Extract, Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract, Citric Acid, Limonene, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways apply sunscreen as the final step in your morning routine — after moisturizer and before makeup. Let your moisturizer absorb fully (about 60 seconds) before applying to prevent pilling.
How to use
HOW TO USEComplete Your AM Skincare Routine
Apply your cleanser, toner, serum, eye cream, and moisturizer first. Allow each layer to absorb before proceeding to the final step.
Use the Three-Finger Method
Squeeze a generous amount onto three fingers — approximately 1/3 to 1/2 a teaspoon. This is the amount needed to achieve the labeled SPF 36 protection on the face alone.
Apply Evenly to Face and Neck
Spread the sunscreen evenly across your face, neck, and ears in small, gentle motions. Gently pat with your fingertips for better absorption and to avoid disturbing underlying layers.
Wait Before Sun Exposure
Allow the sunscreen to set for at least 15 minutes before stepping outdoors. Chemical sunscreens require time to form a protective film and begin absorbing UV radiation.
Reapply Every 2 Hours
Reapply throughout the day, especially after sweating, swimming, or towel drying. For reapplication over makeup, use a setting-spray sunscreen or powder SPF as a touch-up method.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a lightweight daily SPF that doubles as a skincare step
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin prone to sunscreen shine
- You prefer invisible sunscreens that work on deeper skin tones
- You love K-beauty skincare with skin-nourishing botanicals
- You're looking for an accessible, budget-friendly everyday SPF
- You wear makeup and need a no-pill sunscreen base
- You prefer a dewy, natural-glow finish rather than matte
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your OB; consider mineral SPF)
- You are dealing with active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis)
- You have fragrance sensitivity or react to Limonene/Linalool
- You need high-SPF protection for prolonged outdoor activities (choose SPF 50+)
- You live in Maui County, Hawaii (chemical UV filter restrictions apply)
- You prefer a completely matte finish with no dewy sheen
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The lightweight lotion texture, dewy finish, and balanced hydration work flawlessly on normal skin without feeling too heavy or too dry.
Lightweight formula balances well across oily T-zones and drier cheeks. Fast absorption prevents the greasy buildup that heavier SPFs cause in combination zones.
Provides hydration via Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, and Sunflower Seed Oil, but very dry skin may need a richer moisturizer underneath. Works best as a final layer over a hydrating cream.
Absorbs without leaving a greasy residue. The dewy finish may amplify shine by midday for very oily skin types — setting with a translucent powder or blotting throughout the day helps manage this.
Cica and Green Tea provide soothing benefits, but the presence of fragrance (Parfum, Limonene, Linalool) may trigger reactions in highly reactive or fragrance-intolerant skin. Patch testing is strongly recommended.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and the vast majority of acne-prone reviewers report no new breakouts. Note: not suitable for active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) due to fatty acid ester content.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Instant UV Protection & Glow
Immediately upon application, the formula creates an invisible protective shield against UVA and UVB rays. Skin looks fresh, hydrated, and has a natural luminous glow without the appearance of wearing sunscreen.
86% saw no white cast (brand study, 30 women)Comfortable Daily Habit Established
The lightweight, fast-absorbing texture makes applying SPF feel like an effortless step. Skin feels balanced, neither dried out nor over-greasy. Makeup wearers notice seamless layering with no pilling or disruption of their makeup routine.
Most users adapt to the texture within 3–5 daysVisible Brightness & Even Tone
Consistent daily SPF use begins to prevent new UV-induced hyperpigmentation and dark spots from forming. Existing discoloration may appear lighter as sun exposure is significantly limited. Green Tea antioxidants contribute to a more even, radiant complexion.
~70% of consistent SPF users notice reduced new dark spots within 4–6 weeksLong-Term Photoprotection Benefits
Continuous daily sunscreen use is the most evidence-backed intervention for slowing premature photoaging, including fine lines, loss of elasticity, and UV-triggered pigmentation. Broad-spectrum protection from Avobenzone specifically targets UVA aging rays, the primary driver of visible skin aging.
Dermatologists agree: daily SPF is the #1 anti-aging skincare stepRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Truly invisible — no white cast on all skin tones
- Lightweight, lotion-like texture absorbs quickly
- Beautiful natural dewy-glow finish
- Layers seamlessly under makeup without pilling
- Skin-beneficial botanicals (Green Tea, Cica, Sunflower Oil)
- Free from Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Parabens
- Accessible price point for a Sephora-stocked SPF
- Works well on deeper/darker skin tones
- Smell is mild and fades quickly after application
Criticized
- Only SPF 36 — below SPF 50 recommended for extended outdoor time
- Contains Fragrance (Parfum, Limonene, Linalool) — not ideal for reactive skin
- Not fungal-acne safe
- Chemical sunscreen — not ideal during pregnancy without OB guidance
- Can feel sticky if applied over a heavy moisturizer too quickly
- 50ml bottle feels small relative to price
- Dewy finish may amplify shine on very oily skin
- Not water-resistant — requires reapplication after sweating
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A K-beauty chemical sunscreen with a similarly lightweight, near-invisible finish and no-white-cast formula. Offers stronger SPF 50 protection, is fragrance-free in its original formula, and provides a comparable dewy-natural finish. Slightly more watery in texture. Great swap for those seeking higher protection at a lower price.
A classic drugstore chemical sunscreen with higher SPF 45 and a matte dry-touch finish. Lacks the K-beauty botanicals (Green Tea, Cica) and delivers a drier, less dewy feel. Does not leave white cast. Widely available and affordable for everyday use. Better for oily skin due to the matte finish.
A K-beauty SPF with similar lightweight texture, no white cast, and skin-nourishing actives (Vitamin E, Niacinamide). Offers upgraded SPF 50 broad spectrum protection. More suitable for those wanting both sun protection and skin brightening benefits. Very similar price point with arguably better SPF coverage.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEInnisfree Daily UV Defense SPF 36
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Once opened, use within 12 months for maximum SPF efficacy and freshness. UV filters can degrade over time even when stored properly.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid leaving in a hot car or direct sunlight, as heat accelerates the degradation of UV filters — particularly Avobenzone.
Squeeze tube (50ml / 1.69 fl oz). Hygienic dispensing with minimal air exposure. Tube packaging helps preserve formula stability compared to jar formats. Travel size also available.
Yes — 50ml is under the TSA 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage. The squeeze tube format is secure and leak-resistant. A 1.69 fl oz travel bottle is also sold separately.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product warrants caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains chemical UV filters — specifically Homosalate (7%), which in-vitro studies have shown may have weak estrogenic activity. While no definitive harm in humans has been established under real-world conditions, many OBGYNs and dermatologists recommend switching to mineral-based sunscreens (containing only Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide) during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid (as an active), or hydroquinone — but the chemical UV filter content is the primary concern. Please consult your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or nursing.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate (fatty acid esters), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, and fatty alcohols including Cetyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Alcohol, and Behenyl Alcohol. If you are experiencing active fungal acne, choose a mineral-based sunscreen with a minimal, fungal-acne-vetted ingredient list. Popular fungal-acne-safe alternatives include ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Daily Sun Gel SPF 50 and some mineral-only formulas.
Yes — this sunscreen is the last step in your morning routine and is generally compatible with all AM skincare actives. However, keep these points in mind: (1) Retinol should primarily be used at night, as sunscreen alone isn't sufficient to prevent retinol-related photosensitivity — so retinol use makes daily SPF even more essential. (2) Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) works synergistically with sunscreen and is fine to layer underneath. (3) AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) increase photosensitivity — daily SPF is non-negotiable when using these actives, and the SPF 36 in this formula provides a good baseline. Always apply actives first and allow them to absorb before layering your sunscreen.
This sunscreen performs best on normal and combination skin types, which benefit most from the lightweight texture and natural dewy finish. Dry skin types will enjoy the added hydration from Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, and Sunflower Seed Oil, but may need a richer moisturizer underneath. Oily skin types can use it comfortably, though midday shine may increase due to the dewy finish — setting with a powder or blotting film helps. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to the fragrance content. It is not ideal for those with active fungal acne.
UV protection begins immediately upon application (after allowing 15 minutes for chemical filters to fully activate). For visible skin benefits, consistent daily use over 4–8 weeks typically yields a more even skin tone, reduced new sun spots, and a prevention of further UV-induced damage. The antioxidant botanicals (Green Tea, Cica, Vitamin E/Tocopherol) support the skin's environmental defense immediately, though their visible cumulative effects build over weeks of consistent use. Sunscreen is primarily a preventative product — its most important results are the damage, aging, and pigmentation you won't develop over time.
This sunscreen goes at the very end of your morning skincare routine — after cleanser, toner, serums, eye cream, and moisturizer, and before any makeup. Apply it as the final skincare step to ensure the UV filters sit on top of the skin surface where they can effectively absorb UV radiation. Using it before your moisturizer would dilute and disrupt the UV filter film. If you reapply over makeup during the day, use a setting-spray SPF or SPF powder on top rather than reapplying the lotion directly.
This formula carries a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, considered very low-risk. The majority of its ingredients — including the chemical UV filters, silicones (Cyclopentasiloxane, Polymethylsilsesquioxane), and water — are non-comedogenic. Fatty alcohols (Cetyl, Arachidyl, Behenyl) are present but appear lower in the formula where concentrations are minimal. The vast majority of user reviews from acne-prone individuals do not report new breakouts. However, individual skin responses vary, so patch testing on the jaw or neck before full-face use is always advisable for those with breakout-prone skin.
Once opened, use within 12 months (12M PAO). After this period, the UV filters — particularly Avobenzone — may have degraded, reducing the product's effective SPF protection even if it looks and smells unchanged. To maximize shelf life: store at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight, keep the tube tightly sealed between uses, and avoid exposing the product to extreme temperatures (like leaving it in a hot car). At the recommended daily application of about 1/3 teaspoon, a 50ml tube should last approximately 3–4 months with consistent daily use on the face only.
Verdict: The Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36 is an excellent everyday chemical sunscreen for those seeking a lightweight, K-beauty-infused formula that deliversinvisible broad-spectrum protection with a beautiful natural dewy finish — especially standout for medium and deeper skin tones who struggle to find white-cast-free SPF. The inclusion of Jeju Green Tea, Centella Asiatica, and Sunflower Seed Oil transforms a straightforward sunscreen into a genuineskincare-sunscreen hybrid. At ~$18 for 50ml from Sephora, it offers strong value in the prestige SPF category. The main trade-offs to consider: SPF 36 falls below the SPF 50 recommended for extended outdoor activities, the formula contains fragrance (limiting suitability for reactive skin), and it is not fungal-acne or pregnancy-safe without medical guidance. For an indoor-to-light-outdoor daily SPF on normal, combination, or dry skin types, however, this remains one of the most wearable and beautifully formulated options accessible at a mid-tier price point.
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Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|