Dapsone Gel 5%
Dapsone Gel 5%
Product Description
Product overview
Taro Dapsone Gel 5% is a prescription-strength topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory gel formulated to treat acne vulgaris in adults and adolescents 12 years and older. Containing 50 mg of dapsone per gram in a lightweight, fast-absorbing gel base, it targets inflammatory lesions without the antibiotic resistance concerns associated with traditional topical antibiotics. A generic equivalent of Aczone® 5%, it delivers the same clinically proven active at a more accessible price point.
Dual-Action Anti-Acne Formula
Dapsone 5% works as both an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, tackling the two key drivers of acne vulgaris simultaneously — bacteria and redness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Anti-Acne Formula
Dapsone 5% works as both an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent, tackling the two key drivers of acne vulgaris simultaneously — bacteria and redness.
No Antibiotic Resistance Risk
Unlike clindamycin or erythromycin gels, dapsone is a sulfone, not a traditional antibiotic, so P. acnes resistance is not a documented concern with this class.
Non-Drying, Gentle Vehicle
The minimal 6-ingredient gel base is designed to minimize irritation. Clinical studies show lower rates of dryness and peeling compared to retinoid-based gels.
Makeup-Friendly Formula
Absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue. Goes smoothly under oil-free moisturizers and foundations — ideal for daily wear on acne-prone skin.
Affordable Generic of Aczone®
Taro's dapsone gel carries an AB therapeutic equivalence rating to Aczone® 5%, meaning identical clinical efficacy at a fraction of the brand-name price.
Clinically Studied Efficacy
Two pivotal randomized controlled trials demonstrated up to 54% reduction in inflammatory lesion counts over 12 weeks vs. vehicle, meeting FDA approval standards.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFDA pregnancy category C. No adequate controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal studies with oral dapsone showed embryocidal effects at very high doses. Use only if potential benefit justifies the risk — always consult your doctor.
Dapsone gel can pass into breast milk. Systemic absorption from the topical gel is approximately 1% of an oral dose, but the manufacturer advises against use while nursing. Discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider.
The formula contains no ferments, polysorbates, fatty acids, esters, or other ingredients known to feed Malassezia. Confirmed fungal acne safe by skinsort.com community analysis.
None of the inactive ingredients are known pore-cloggers. Carbomer, ethoxydiglycol, and methylparaben all score 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency may be at elevated risk for hemolysis. Hemolytic anemia is less likely with topical than oral dapsone, but G6PD patients should be monitored.
Applying benzoyl peroxide immediately after dapsone gel can cause a temporary yellow-orange discoloration of skin and facial hair. Allow dapsone to fully absorb, or use BPO at a different time of day.
Dapsone is not a retinoid and does not increase photosensitivity. Sunscreen is still recommended as part of any acne treatment routine to protect healing skin.
Rare cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported postmarketing. Risk is very low with topical use but increased in combination with certain oxidizing medications. Seek care if you experience blue-gray lips or difficulty breathing.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSDapsone (Active) 5% / 50 mg per gramProven
The star ingredient. Dapsone (4,4'-diaminodiphenylsulfone) is a sulfone compound with dual antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Originally used systemically for leprosy and dermatitis herpetiformis, it was repurposed as a topical acne treatment due to its ability to reduce inflammatory acne lesions with minimal systemic absorption.
- Mechanism: Inhibits dihydropteroate synthase in bacteria; also suppresses neutrophil-driven inflammation at the follicular level.
- Clinical Data: Two pivotal RCTs (Draelos et al., JAAD 2007) showed ~48–54% reduction in inflammatory lesion counts at 12 weeks vs. vehicle.
- Systemic Exposure: Topical 5% gel produces blood levels ~100x lower than a 100 mg oral dose, making systemic side effects rare.
- Resistance: No documented P. acnes resistance to dapsone in topical form, unlike clindamycin or erythromycin.
Carbomer (Carbomer Homopolymer Type C) <1%Proven
A high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid that functions as the primary gelling agent in this formulation. Carbomer creates the characteristic smooth, spreadable gel texture and helps suspend the dapsone drug substance evenly throughout the base. Due to its large molecular size, carbomer has minimal skin penetration and is considered an inert, well-tolerated excipient.
- Function: Gelling agent, viscosity builder, formula stabilizer.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — does not clog pores.
- Safety: Extensively reviewed; considered safe at concentrations up to 1% in leave-on products by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR).
Ethoxydiglycol (Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether) Solvent baseProven
A synthetic solvent also known as DGME (diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, NF). Its primary role is to dissolve dapsone, which is practically insoluble in water, and to carry the active ingredient into the follicular unit where it exerts its effect. Ethoxydiglycol also contributes to the gel's smooth application and quick-dry feel.
- Function: Solvent, penetration enhancer, improves dapsone bioavailability in the formulation.
- Skin Feel: Contributes to fast absorption and the non-greasy finish characteristic of this gel.
- Safety: Approved as a pharmaceutical excipient (NF grade); well-tolerated in topical products at standard concentrations.
Methylparaben <0.1%Proven
A widely used antimicrobial preservative from the paraben family. Methylparaben prevents microbial contamination (bacteria, yeast, mold) to ensure product safety and shelf stability. In pharmaceutical formulations, it is used at very low concentrations — typically 0.05–0.1% — well below concentrations shown to cause sensitization in most individuals.
- Function: Broad-spectrum preservative against gram-positive bacteria, fungi, and mold.
- Concentration: Used at pharmaceutical grade (NF) at levels far below sensitizing threshold.
- Safety Status: Approved by FDA, EMA, and CIR at standard concentrations; ongoing research into estrogenic activity remains inconclusive at typical topical doses.
Water (Purified Water, USP) Base / SolventProven
Purified water, USP grade (United States Pharmacopeia standard), serves as the primary aqueous solvent and vehicle for the gel formulation. It dissolves water-soluble excipients and, together with carbomer and ethoxydiglycol, forms the stable gel matrix that delivers dapsone to the skin.
- Function: Primary solvent, hydration vehicle, base for gel matrix formation.
- Grade: Purified Water USP — pharmaceutical-grade, free from contaminants.
Sodium Hydroxide pH Adjuster (trace)Proven
Also known as lye or caustic soda, sodium hydroxide is used in trace amounts purely to adjust the pH of the finished gel to an optimal range (approximately 6.0–7.0). Proper pH is critical for carbomer to form an effective gel structure and for dapsone to remain chemically stable throughout the product's shelf life.
- Function: pH adjustment, carbomer neutralization/gel formation.
- Final Product: Reacts completely with carbomer and water — no free sodium hydroxide remains in the finished product.
- Safety: At trace pH-adjusting levels, considered non-irritating and safe in finished formulations.
6 ingredients
Active: Dapsone 5% (50 mg/g)
Inactive: Carbomer Homopolymer Type C, Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether (Ethoxydiglycol), Methylparaben, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Dapsone Gel 5% to clean, dry skin before moisturizer. Use AM and PM as directed by your prescriber. Allow to fully absorb before applying benzoyl peroxide to avoid temporary skin discoloration.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Gently wash your face with a mild, non-stripping cleanser. Pat skin dry — do not rub vigorously. Allow skin to cool and dry fully before applying the gel.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze approximately a pea-sized amount (roughly the size of your fingertip) of Taro Dapsone Gel 5% from the tube. This amount is sufficient to cover the full face.
Apply in a Thin Layer
Gently rub the gel in completely over acne-affected areas of the face. A thin, even layer is all that is needed. The gel may appear gritty due to visible dapsone drug particles — this is normal.
Allow to Absorb, Then Moisturize
Wait for the gel to fully absorb (approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute). Follow with an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer. In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Wash Hands Thoroughly
Wash your hands well after application to avoid accidental contact with eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.
Use Twice Daily (AM & PM)
Apply morning and evening as directed by your prescriber. If no improvement is seen after 12 weeks, consult your dermatologist to reassess your treatment plan.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris
- You've tried topical antibiotics but are concerned about resistance
- You want a prescription-strength treatment without retinoid dryness
- Your skin is sensitive and doesn't tolerate benzoyl peroxide well
- You have hormonal acne along the cheeks, jaw, and chin
- You have fungal acne and need an acne treatment that is malassezia-safe
- You wear makeup daily and need a gel that absorbs cleanly under foundation
- You're looking for a more affordable generic alternative to Aczone®
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (discuss with your OB/GYN)
- You have G6PD deficiency (use with extreme caution, monitor closely)
- You are taking oral dapsone or antimalarial medications
- You primarily have non-inflammatory (comedonal) acne — blackheads, whiteheads
- You need an OTC option without a prescription
- You have known paraben hypersensitivity or sensitivity
- You experience no improvement after 12 weeks of consistent use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, water-based gel absorbs instantly with a matte finish. Contains no oils, silicones, or pore-clogging agents. Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types.
This is the primary indication. Targets inflammatory acne lesions (papules and pustules) at their source. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and without antibiotic resistance concerns.
The gel vehicle is well-suited to combination skin — lightweight enough for oily T-zones and gentle enough for drier cheek areas. Can be applied only to affected areas.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and free from harsh actives like AHAs or retinoids. Lower irritation profile than most acne treatments. Those with paraben sensitivity should patch test first.
Does not actively moisturize, but clinical dryness rates are low (16% in studies). Always follow with a good non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain the skin barrier.
Well-tolerated on normal skin types experiencing breakouts. Minimal disruption to skin balance due to the simple, non-stripping gel formula.
Results timeline
3–6 MONTHSCalming of Active Inflammation
Some users notice a reduction in the redness and swelling around existing pimples within the first week. The anti-inflammatory action of dapsone begins working immediately, but visible clearing takes time. Skin may appear slightly drier initially.
~30% noticed early calmingReduction in New Breakouts
By the second to fourth week, many users report that fewer new inflammatory papules and pustules are forming. Existing blemishes begin to flatten. This is the phase where consistent twice-daily use is most critical.
~50% saw fewer new breakoutsMeasurable Lesion Count Reduction
Clinical studies show statistically significant improvement in inflammatory lesion counts by week 8. Users often report noticeably clearer skin and improved skin texture. Some experience a purging-like phase as skin normalizes.
~54% average lesion reduction notedSignificant Acne Clearance
The 12-week mark is the standard clinical endpoint. FDA pivotal trials showed a clinical success rate of approximately 40.5% vs. 32.8% with vehicle. Many users report substantially clearer skin and improved confidence by this stage.
~40% achieved clinical success at 12 weeksLong-Term Maintenance & Sustained Clarity
Long-term safety and efficacy studies (up to 12 months) confirm that dapsone 5% gel maintains its effectiveness and tolerability with continued use. No tachyphylaxis (decreasing effect over time) has been documented.
Sustained efficacy confirmed at 12 monthsRatings by platform
570+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- FDA-approved, clinically proven for acne vulgaris
- No antibiotic resistance concerns unlike clindamycin
- Extremely minimal ingredient list — only 6 ingredients
- Fragrance-free, oil-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free
- Fungal acne safe — no malassezia-feeding ingredients
- Does not bleach clothing or towels (unlike benzoyl peroxide)
- Low irritation profile — less drying than retinoids or AHAs
- Goes on smoothly under makeup and moisturizer
- Affordable generic equivalent to brand-name Aczone®
- Long-term safety confirmed up to 12 months of use
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not available OTC
- Results take 8–12 weeks to fully manifest
- Gritty texture due to visible dapsone drug particles
- May cause temporary yellow/orange discoloration with benzoyl peroxide
- Less effective for non-inflammatory (comedonal) acne
- Contains methylparaben — a concern for paraben-sensitive individuals
- G6PD-deficient patients require special monitoring
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- May cause dryness, erythema, or oiliness/peeling at application site
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Another FDA-approved generic of Aczone® 5% with an identical formulation (same 6 ingredients at the same concentrations). Therapeutically equivalent (AB-rated). The closest true dupe — same active, same inactive base, different manufacturer.
A widely prescribed topical antibiotic gel for acne. Works on a similar antimicrobial principle but uses a true antibiotic (clindamycin) rather than a sulfone. Risk of P. acnes antibiotic resistance with long-term use. Does not contain dapsone. Good for short-term use or in combination with benzoyl peroxide.
A retinoid-based topical available OTC that targets comedones and inflammatory lesions via a different mechanism (retinoic acid receptor agonism). More effective for comedonal acne. More irritating with higher rates of dryness and peeling, especially initially. Does not require combination with BPO and is widely accessible without a prescription.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHSUse within 12 months of opening. Check the expiration date printed on the tube/carton and do not use after this date.
Store at controlled room temperature 20°–25°C (68°–76°F). Excursions permitted between 15°–30°C (59°–86°F). Protect from freezing. Keep away from heat and direct sunlight.
White to pale yellowish gel in a collapsible pharmaceutical tube. Available in 60g and 90g sizes (NDC 51672-1387-3 and 51672-1387-8). Tube closure minimizes oxidation.
The 60g tube is travel-friendly and TSA-compliant (under 100ml). Keep in carry-on at ambient temperature. Do not leave in a hot car or checked luggage in extreme conditions.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTaro Dapsone Gel 5% is classified as FDA pregnancy category C, meaning there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, and it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Animal studies using oral dapsone at very high doses showed embryocidal effects, though these doses were far higher than topical human exposure. For breastfeeding, the manufacturer states the gel should not be used during nursing because dapsone can pass into breast milk, even though topical absorption is approximately 1% of an oral dose. Always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before using any prescription medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes — Taro Dapsone Gel 5% is confirmed fungal acne safe. Its ultra-minimal formula of only 6 ingredients contains none of the substances known to feed Malassezia yeast: no ferments, no polysorbates, no fatty acids (C11–C24), no esters, no oils, and no PEG derivatives. The inactive ingredients (carbomer, ethoxydiglycol, methylparaben, water, and sodium hydroxide) are all malassezia-neutral. This makes it one of the safest prescription acne treatments for those dealing with concurrent fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Dapsone gel 5% can generally be used alongside other skincare actives with some precautions. With benzoyl peroxide: apply them at different times of day (dapsone in the AM, BPO in the PM) because applying BPO directly over dapsone can cause a temporary yellow-orange skin discoloration. With retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, retinol): no direct chemical incompatibility, but using both simultaneously increases the risk of dryness and irritation — start with one and introduce the second slowly. With vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid): no known interactions, but monitor for cumulative irritation. Always discuss combinations with your dermatologist for a personalized plan.
Taro Dapsone Gel 5% is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its water-based gel formula is lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for those prone to breakouts who cannot tolerate heavier formulas. It is also well-tolerated by sensitive skin types due to its fragrance-free, alcohol-free composition and lower irritation profile compared to retinoids or AHA-based treatments. Dry skin types can also use it, but should follow with a good moisturizer to prevent any gel-related dryness.
Most users notice some initial calming of active inflammation within the first 1–2 weeks. Meaningful reduction in lesion count and visible clearing is typically observed between weeks 4 and 8 of consistent twice-daily use. The FDA pivotal clinical trials used a 12-week treatment period as the primary endpoint — this is the standard timeframe for assessing full efficacy. If no improvement is seen after 12 weeks of consistent use, consult your dermatologist to reassess your treatment plan. Do not stop treatment early if results are progressing, as skin continues to improve over the full course.
Apply Taro Dapsone Gel 5% as the first active treatment after cleansing and toning (if used), and before moisturizer and sunscreen. The correct order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Dapsone Gel 5% → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). Allow the gel to absorb fully (about 30 seconds) before layering other products. If you also use benzoyl peroxide, apply dapsone in your morning routine and BPO in your evening routine to prevent the yellow-orange skin reaction that can occur when the two are applied consecutively.
No — Taro Dapsone Gel 5% is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. None of the inactive ingredients (carbomer, ethoxydiglycol, methylparaben, water, sodium hydroxide) are known pore-cloggers. The formula is oil-free and silicone-free, making it safe for acne-prone and pore-sensitive skin. It is specifically designed to treat acne without contributing to pore congestion.
Taro Dapsone Gel 5% should be used within 12 months of opening, and always before the expiration date printed on the tube and carton. Store at controlled room temperature (20°–25°C / 68°–76°F) away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Protect from freezing. Do not store in the bathroom cabinet where temperature and humidity fluctuate. The 60g tube typically lasts 2–3 months with standard twice-daily full-face use; the 90g tube lasts approximately 3–4 months.
Verdict: Taro Dapsone Gel 5% is an excellent, clinically proven prescription acne treatment for those dealing with inflammatory acne vulgaris who want an effective option without antibiotic resistance risk, without the dryness of retinoids, and without the bleaching of benzoyl peroxide. Its ultra-minimal 6-ingredient formula is fungal acne safe, fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic — ticking nearly every box for sensitive, acne-prone skin. As an AB-rated generic of Aczone®, it delivers the same FDA-proven active at a fraction of the brand cost. The main limitations are the prescription requirement, the 8–12 week timeline for results, and caution needed during pregnancy and for G6PD-deficient patients. For anyone whose dermatologist has recommended dapsone gel, the Taro generic is the smart, cost-effective choice.
Browse related
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
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 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|