Deep Relief Acne Treatment
Deep Relief Acne Treatment
Product Description
Product overview
Murad Deep Relief Acne Treatment is a maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid leave-on treatment that targets deep, painful under-the-surface acne. Formulated with an invisible film-forming polymer that acts like a liquid pimple patch, amino acid technology to fight C. acnes bacteria, and plant-derived phytosteroids to soothe redness—all without a prescription.
Max-Strength Salicylic Acid 2%
The highest OTC concentration of BHA penetrates deep into clogged pores, dissolving sebum and dead skin cells to clear and prevent breakouts at their source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMax-Strength Salicylic Acid 2%
The highest OTC concentration of BHA penetrates deep into clogged pores, dissolving sebum and dead skin cells to clear and prevent breakouts at their source.
Invisible Liquid Pimple Patch
A film-forming polymer dries as a transparent second skin over blemishes, locking actives in place for extended penetration and accelerated healing.
Amino Acid Technology
Precisely targets C. acnes bacteria responsible for triggering severe inflammatory acne, helping to reduce bacterial overgrowth without disrupting the skin microbiome.
Plant-Derived Phytosteroids
Natural phytosterols from botanical sources mimic the soothing action of cortisone, visibly reducing redness and inflammation without the side effects of steroid treatments.
Ground Cherry (Physalis) Extract
Clinically proven botanical from Physalis Pubescens fruit juice that supports a clearer, healthier-looking complexion and aids in overall blemish recovery.
Menthyl Lactate Cooling Relief
Delivers an instant cooling sensation upon application, providing soothing comfort to painful, swollen deep acne bumps and reducing the perception of discomfort.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid, a BHA that most dermatologists advise avoiding in leave-on products during pregnancy. Consult your physician before use.
Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lecithin, Phytosterols, and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Formula is designed for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to clog pores when used as directed as a spot treatment.
Max-strength salicylic acid may cause dryness, peeling, or irritation in some users. Patch test first and reduce frequency if skin becomes sensitive.
Free from parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, mineral oil, oxybenzone, and sulfates (SLS & SLES). Gluten-free and cruelty-free certified.
Do not use alongside prescribed acne medications. Combining with other BHA/AHA exfoliants or retinoids may increase irritation. Use with caution.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve the mix of sebum and dead skin cells that cause blockages. At 2%, this is the maximum strength allowed in OTC acne treatments.
- Mechanism: Exfoliates inside the pore lining, unclogs comedones, and has mild anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Clinical evidence: Extensive research supports 2% salicylic acid for reducing acne lesion count and preventing new breakouts.
- FDA status: Classified as an active drug ingredient in OTC acne products at 0.5–2% concentration.
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
One of the most effective humectant moisturizers in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin, helping to maintain hydration and support the skin barrier.
- Function: Humectant that prevents the formula from being overly drying, balancing out the exfoliating action of salicylic acid.
- Research: Glycerin is recognized as a safe and effective moisturizing agent with decades of clinical evidence.
Phytosterols ModeratePromising
Plant-derived sterols that act as natural phytosteroids, mimicking the anti-inflammatory action of cortisone. They help visibly reduce redness and soothe inflamed blemishes without the side effects of steroid injections.
- Source: Derived from botanical sources; acts as the product's natural alternative to cortisone shots.
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory, barrier-repairing, and soothing properties that calm painful deep acne bumps.
Albatrellus Confluens Extract LowPromising
A mushroom-derived extract that is part of Murad's proprietary amino acid technology. It targets the C. acnes bacteria that triggers severe inflammatory acne.
- Mechanism: Antimicrobial peptide complex that selectively targets acne-causing bacteria without broad-spectrum antibiotic action.
- Clinical backing: Part of Murad's proprietary blend shown in consumer studies to reduce breakout severity.
Physalis Pubescens Fruit Juice Low-ModeratePromising
Ground cherry extract that is clinically proven by the brand to support a clearer, healthier complexion. Rich in withanolides and antioxidants that help calm skin.
- Source: Extracted from the fruit of the Physalis pubescens plant (ground cherry/husk tomato).
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory and skin-conditioning properties that support acne recovery.
Urea LowProven
A natural moisturizing factor (NMF) found in healthy skin. At low concentrations, it acts as a powerful humectant and mild keratolytic, helping to soften and hydrate skin.
- Function: Moisturizes and helps with gentle exfoliation of dead skin cells, supporting the action of salicylic acid.
- Science: Urea makes up about 7% of the skin's natural moisturizing factors and regulates epidermal function.
Yeast Amino Acids LowPromising
Part of the amino acid technology complex that targets harmful C. acnes bacteria. Amino acids from yeast help regulate the skin's microbiome and support barrier repair.
- Mechanism: Antimicrobial peptides that selectively target acne-causing bacteria responsible for deep, inflammatory breakouts.
- Benefit: Helps reduce bacterial overgrowth while supporting healthy skin flora.
Allantoin LowProven
A well-established soothing and skin-conditioning agent derived from the comfrey plant. Known for its ability to calm irritation and promote skin recovery.
- Function: Soothes irritation, promotes cell regeneration, and helps keep skin soft and smooth.
- Safety: Very well tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and compromised skin.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) LowProven
Pure Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that provides significant protection against UV-induced free radical damage and supports skin healing.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, supports wound healing, and helps prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.
- Evidence: Decades of research confirming photoprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Trehalose LowPromising
A natural sugar with potent water-binding properties that helps maintain skin hydration. Acts as a moisture reservoir, preventing the drying effects of active acne treatments.
- Function: Humectant and cell protectant that helps skin retain moisture even when exposed to drying acne actives.
- Benefit: Stabilizes skin proteins and prevents dehydration-induced irritation.
Betaine LowProven
A sugar beet-derived amino acid derivative that acts as an osmolyte, helping to control cell-water balance and protect the skin from environmental stress.
- Function: Osmoprotectant that maintains hydration balance, protecting skin cells from drying out during acne treatment.
- Source: Naturally derived from sugar beets; well-tolerated across all skin types.
Menthyl Lactate LowProven
A cooling agent that provides an instant soothing sensation upon application, helping to relieve the discomfort and pain associated with deep, inflamed acne bumps.
- Function: Provides a cooling, calming effect without the harshness of menthol, reducing the perception of pain from deep blemishes.
- Benefit: Immediate sensory relief that makes the treatment experience more comfortable.
Pullulan LowPromising
A polysaccharide that forms the invisible film-forming barrier on the skin's surface. This is the key ingredient behind the "liquid pimple patch" technology.
- Mechanism: Creates a breathable, transparent film that locks active ingredients against the blemish for extended contact time and deeper penetration.
- Benefit: Holds salicylic acid and other actives in place longer, improving treatment efficacy.
Dimethyl Isosorbide Low-ModerateProven
A penetration enhancer that helps active ingredients like salicylic acid reach deeper layers of the skin where deep acne bumps originate.
- Function: Boosts the delivery and bioavailability of active ingredients by carrying them through the skin barrier.
- Benefit: Particularly useful for treating under-the-surface acne that standard topical treatments struggle to reach.
Polylysine LowPromising
An antimicrobial peptide that helps control bacterial growth on the skin's surface, working alongside the amino acid technology to target acne-causing organisms.
- Function: Natural preservative with antimicrobial properties that also supports acne-fighting action.
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated and considered safe for topical use.
36 ingredients
Salicylic Acid 2%, Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Behenyl Alcohol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Physalis Pubescens Fruit Juice, Albatrellus Confluens Extract, Urea, Yeast Amino Acids, Trehalose, Taurine, Inositol, Betaine, Allantoin, Polylysine, Tocopherol, Pullulan, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lecithin, Phytosterols, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Menthyl Lactate, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Silica, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and PM as a spot treatment on clean, dry skin. Apply before moisturizer and let the invisible film dry completely before layering other products. Always follow with SPF during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash face with a gentle cleanser (Murad recommends their Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser). Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
Apply Treatment
Dip a clean cotton swab into the bottle and apply directly to affected areas. You can also dispense onto a cotton round or fingertip. Target only active blemishes.
Let It Dry
Allow the product to dry completely and form its invisible film barrier. Do not rinse off—this is a leave-on treatment that works like a liquid pimple patch.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with your preferred moisturizer. In the morning, always apply a broad-spectrum SPF as salicylic acid increases sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You suffer from deep, painful, under-the-surface acne or cystic breakouts
- You experience hormonal acne along the jawline, chin, or cheeks
- You want a prescription-strength alternative without visiting a dermatologist
- You prefer a spot treatment that stays in place and works while you sleep
- You need something that reduces redness and swelling quickly
- You have oily, combination, or balanced skin prone to breakouts
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains 2% salicylic acid)
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia)—formula contains potential triggers
- You have extremely dry or sensitive skin that reacts to BHA
- You are looking for a full-face treatment, not a spot treatment
- You are currently using prescribed acne medications
- You are on a tight budget—the product is $46 for 1 fl oz
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid dissolves excess sebum and the lightweight serum absorbs without adding shine or greasiness.
Works well as a spot treatment on oily, breakout-prone zones without affecting drier areas of the face.
Effective for occasional deep breakouts. Formula includes glycerin and urea to prevent excessive drying.
May cause localized dryness or flaking at the application site. Follow with a rich moisturizer and limit use to once daily.
The 2% salicylic acid and menthyl lactate may irritate reactive skin. Patch test first and start with once-daily use.
Specifically designed for this skin type. Targets deep inflammatory acne, hormonal breakouts, and painful cystic blemishes.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Soothing & Reduced Pain
The cooling menthyl lactate provides instant comfort. The invisible film locks actives against the blemish. Many users report reduced swelling and pain within the first few applications.
70% noticed reduced discomfortVisible Reduction in Redness & Size
Salicylic acid begins to unclog pores and break down the deep blockage. Blemishes start to flatten and redness visibly decreases. The phytosteroids calm inflammation.
82% saw breakouts less redBreakouts Healing & Prevention
Consistent use leads to faster breakout resolution and fewer new deep blemishes forming. The amino acid technology reduces C. acnes bacterial overgrowth.
85% reported fewer new breakoutsClearer, Calmer Complexion
In Murad's 8-week clinical study with 33 participants (ages 17–32), the majority reported significantly calmer, clearer skin with less frequent deep acne episodes.
88% agreed acne bumps were calmerRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Rapidly reduces size and pain of deep, cystic breakouts—many users see results within 1–3 days
- Invisible film technology holds actives in place like a liquid pimple patch
- Max-strength 2% salicylic acid with proven acne-fighting efficacy
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture that works under makeup
- Cooling sensation provides immediate comfort on painful bumps
- Dermatologist-developed with clean, cruelty-free formulation
- HSA/FSA eligible—can be purchased with pre-tax health funds
Criticized
- Expensive at $46 for just 1 fl oz—poor cost-per-ounce value
- Can cause dryness, peeling, or flaking with daily use on some skin types
- Small bottle runs out quickly if used on multiple breakout areas
- Bottle design makes precise application difficult for some users
- Not suitable for fungal acne or use during pregnancy
- Some reviewers with mature skin found it too drying without adequate moisturizer
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 2% salicylic acid concentration in a larger 4 oz bottle. Liquid exfoliant for full-face use rather than spot treatment. Lacks the film-forming patch technology and phytosteroid soothing complex but offers excellent BHA value.
![Effaclar Duo [+] SPF 30](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0907/5028/8215/files/pg5xsf6ex00znkgwq00ls4pgcrl7.jpg?v=1774942416)
Combines salicylic acid with niacinamide and LHA for acne treatment. Full-face cream rather than a spot treatment. Larger 1.35 oz tube at a lower price point. No invisible film technology but includes anti-mark actives.
Same 2% salicylic acid at a fraction of the price. Simple formula without the amino acid technology, phytosteroids, or film-forming patch. Great for those who want straightforward BHA without the bells and whistles.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dermalogica Deep Acne Liquid Patch
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta On The Spot
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed to preserve the active ingredients.
Glass bottle with open-top design for cotton swab dipping. No pump or dropper—dispense by dipping applicator directly into the bottle.
Yes, 1 fl oz (30ml) is under the 100ml TSA carry-on liquid limit. Compact glass bottle fits easily in a travel toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This product contains 2% salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that most dermatologists advise against using in leave-on formulations during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While small amounts of topical salicylic acid are generally considered lower risk than oral forms, this is a leave-on treatment at the maximum OTC concentration. Murad does not provide specific pregnancy guidance for this product. Consult your physician or OB-GYN before using any salicylic acid product during pregnancy or nursing.
No. The formula contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (a fatty acid ester), Lecithin, Phytosterols, and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (a ferment). While salicylic acid itself can be beneficial for fungal acne, the overall formula is not considered Malassezia-safe. If you have confirmed fungal acne, look for treatments without these types of ingredients.
Use with caution. This treatment already contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), so layering additional BHA or AHA exfoliants on the same areas may cause excessive dryness, peeling, or irritation. If using retinol, alternate nights or apply them to different areas of the face. Vitamin C serums can generally be used at a different time of day. Murad advises not using this product alongside prescribed acne medications. If in doubt, introduce one active at a time and monitor your skin's tolerance.
This treatment is best suited for oily, combination, and balanced skin types that are prone to deep, inflammatory breakouts. It is specifically designed for cystic acne, hormonal acne, and painful under-the-surface bumps. Users with dry or sensitive skin may still benefit but should apply less frequently and always follow with a rich moisturizer to prevent excessive dryness. Patch test before full use if you have reactive skin.
Many users report reduced pain and swelling within 1–3 days of first application. In Murad's clinical study with 33 participants (ages 17–32), 82% saw breakouts become less red and 88% agreed acne bumps were calmer after 8 weeks of consistent use. Individual results vary depending on acne severity, skin type, and consistency of use. For deep cystic acne, allow at least 2–4 weeks for significant visible improvement.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before serums and moisturizer. Use it as step 3 in your routine: Cleanser → Toner → Deep Relief Treatment (spot application) → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Apply with a clean cotton swab directly onto blemishes, let the invisible film dry completely, then continue with the rest of your routine. Use both AM and PM for best results.
The product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is specifically designed for acne-prone skin. It contains salicylic acid which actively unclogs pores. While it includes some fatty alcohols (cetyl, stearyl, behenyl) which are sometimes flagged, these are present at low concentrations and serve as emollients to prevent the formula from being overly drying. Used as directed as a spot treatment, it is unlikely to cause new comedones.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 1 fl oz bottle typically lasts several weeks to a few months depending on how many breakout areas you treat and how frequently you apply. Since this is a spot treatment (not full-face), the bottle tends to last longer than other acne products of the same size. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed for maximum shelf life.
Verdict: Murad Deep Relief Acne Treatment is a premium, dermatologist-developed spot treatment that delivers on its promise for deep, painful acne. The combination of max-strength 2% salicylic acid, innovative liquid pimple patch technology, amino acid antibacterial complex, and soothing plant-derived phytosteroids makes it a standout in the acne treatment category. Clinical results and overwhelmingly positive user reviews confirm its effectiveness for cystic and hormonal breakouts. The main drawbacks are the premium price ($46/oz) and its unsuitability for fungal acne or use during pregnancy. For those battling stubborn, under-the-surface acne who want a prescription-grade alternative, this is one of the best options available.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|