Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser
Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser
Product Description
A microbiome-powered, ultra-lightweight moisturiser formulated for oily and acne-prone skin fragilised by drying treatments. Enriched with prebiotic Aqua Posae Filiformis, Niacinamide, Squalane, and Vitamin B5, it intensely hydrates while soothing redness and visibly reducing blemish marks β leaving skin comfortable and shine-free for up to 48 hours.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Prebiotic Microbiome Technology
Aqua Posae Filiformis (Vitreoscilla Ferment), La Roche-Posay's exclusive prebiotic biomass, reinforces the skin's natural microbiome to strengthen the barrier and resist external aggressors.
Niacinamide for Blemish Reduction
Clinically proven niacinamide (~2%) visibly reduces redness, post-acne marks, and uneven skin tone while supporting the skin barrier β without irritating fragile, treatment-stressed skin.
Squalane + Vitamin B5 Deep Hydration
Skin-identical squalane locks in moisture while panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) attracts water and promotes the skin's own lipid production β delivering clinically observed 48-hour hydration.
Bixa Orellana (Annatto) Seed Extract
This unique botanical extract from the achiote plant helps reduce visible imperfections and post-acne marks, offering a compensating anti-blemish action without drying or irritating the skin.
La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
Sourced from La Roche-Posay in France, the thermal spring water is naturally rich in selenium and has been used in dermatology for over 50 years to soothe reactive, sensitive skin conditions.
Non-Greasy Compensating Formula
Specifically designed to counteract the over-drying effects of acne treatments like isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, and strong exfoliants β replenishing moisture without adding shine or heaviness.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone, which is reassuring. However, it does contain Parfum (fragrance), which some healthcare professionals advise minimising during pregnancy. Generally considered low-risk, but consult your OB-GYN or midwife before use.
This product contains Vitreoscilla Ferment (a fermented ingredient), as well as several fatty acid esters (Myristyl Myristate, Glyceryl Stearate SE) and fatty acids (Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Myristic Acid) that can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Most ingredients are non-comedogenic (glycerin, squalane, niacinamide, panthenol). However, Myristyl Myristate has a high individual comedogenicity score (5/5), which may cause congestion for some. The brand markets it as non-comedogenic β individual reactions may vary.
Contains no drying or irritating alcohols (no denatured alcohol, SD alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol). Safe for dry, sensitised, and compromised skin barrier conditions.
Free from parabens (traditional preservatives) and sulfate-based surfactants. Uses Hydroxyacetophenone and Caprylyl Glycol as mild, modern preservative alternatives.
Contains no retinol, retinaldehyde, or prescription retinoids. Perfectly safe to use alongside retinoid treatments as a compensating, soothing moisturiser to offset dryness and irritation.
The full INCI list includes Parfum/Fragrance as the last ingredient, indicating a very low concentration. Most users report the scent is barely perceptible, but those with fragrance sensitivity or contact allergy should patch test first.
Specifically formulated to be used alongside isotretinoin (Roaccutane/Accutane), benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, and other drying acne treatments. Clinically tested on skin undergoing such treatments under dermatological control.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Glycerin ~5β10% Proven
A skin-identical humectant appearing as the second ingredient, glycerin is one of the most well-researched moisturising actives in dermatology. It draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum, providing immediate and lasting hydration.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical ingredient, moisture-binding
- Science: Demonstrated to increase skin hydration, improve barrier function, and accelerate stratum corneum repair in multiple peer-reviewed studies
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5 β universally non-comedogenic
β¨ Squalane ~3β7% Proven
A skin-identical emollient derived from sugarcane or olives, squalane mimics the natural squalene produced by human sebaceous glands. It forms a light, non-occlusive barrier on the skin surface that reduces transepidermal water loss without clogging pores.
- Function: Skin-identical emollient, antioxidant, TEWL reduction
- Science: Research confirms squalane is non-irritating at all concentrations and provides antioxidant protection against oxidative stress
- Comedogenic Rating: 1/5 β essentially non-comedogenic
π Panthenol (Vitamin B5) ~1β3% Proven
Pro-Vitamin B5 is a multi-tasking superstar. In the skin, it converts to pantothenic acid and plays a critical role in wound healing, barrier repair, and anti-inflammatory response. It also stimulates the production of skin-strengthening lipids and promotes fibroblast proliferation.
- Function: Humectant, soothing agent, barrier repair, wound-healing support
- Science: A 2016 study in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology showed panthenol significantly reduces skin irritation caused by other formulation components. Studies also confirm its role in promoting lipid synthesis in keratinocytes.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5
π Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1.4β2.1% Proven
Niacinamide is one of the most clinically validated multifunctional actives in skincare. At the concentration present in this formula (~2%), it supports barrier repair, reduces inflammation, visibly fades post-acne marks, and helps regulate sebum production β without irritating compromised skin.
- Function: Anti-blemish, skin-brightening, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory, cell-communicating
- Science: Multiple RCTs confirm niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation, sebum output, and inflammatory acne lesions. At 2%, it is effective for barrier support and tone-evening; concentrations of 4β6% are more potent for sebum control.
- Estimated concentration: 1.40β2.10% (per WIMJ analysis)
π¦ Vitreoscilla Ferment (Aqua Posae Filiformis) traceβ1% Promising
La Roche-Posay's proprietary prebiotic active, derived from the Vitreoscilla filiformis bacteria found in the thermal spring water of La Roche-Posay. This fermented biomass acts as a prebiotic, selectively nourishing beneficial skin bacteria to help restore and maintain a healthy skin microbiome.
- Function: Prebiotic, microbiome modulation, barrier strengthening
- Science: Studies on Vitreoscilla Ferment demonstrate positive effects on microbiome diversity, reduction in Staphylococcus aureus colonisation, and improved skin hydration in atopic dermatitis subjects
- Note: As a fermented ingredient, it is not considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
πΊ Bixa Orellana (Annatto) Seed Extract trace Promising
Extracted from the seeds of the achiote plant (Bixa orellana), this botanical is rich in carotenoids including bixin and norbixin. La Roche-Posay incorporates it in the Effaclar range for its anti-sebum and anti-marks properties, helping to reduce the appearance of post-acne pigmentation and imperfections.
- Function: Anti-sebum, anti-marks, antioxidant, skin-tone evening
- Science: Early research suggests carotenoid-rich botanicals can reduce oxidative stress and support melanin regulation in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
25 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Dimethicone, Panthenol, Zea Mays Starch/Corn Starch, Niacinamide, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Myristyl Myristate, Bixa Orellana Seed Extract, Stearic Acid, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Sodium Hydroxide, Myristic Acid, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, Palmitic Acid, Hydroxyacetophenone, Capryloyl Glycine, Caprylyl Glycol, Vitreoscilla Ferment, Citric Acid, Maltodextrin, Xanthan Gum, Parfum/Fragrance
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply morning and evening after cleansing. During the day, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+. At night, apply after actives (retinoids, AHAs, benzoyl peroxide) to compensate for their drying effects.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser suited to your skin type. The Effaclar H Iso-Biome Cleansing Cream from the same range is an ideal companion, as it's formulated to work synergistically with this moisturiser.
Apply Toner or Treatment (Optional)
If you use a toner, essence, or targeted treatment serum (such as a niacinamide or azelaic acid serum), apply these to dry skin before the moisturiser. Allow each layer to absorb for 20β30 seconds.
Apply a Thin Layer of Effaclar H Iso-Biome
Dispense a pea-sized to dime-sized amount and spread evenly across the entire face, including the under-eye area if needed. Use gentle upward and outward strokes with your fingertips. There is no need to massage aggressively β the ultra-fine texture absorbs quickly.
Morning: Follow with SPF
In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). This moisturiser does not contain UV filters, so sun protection is essential β particularly if you are using photosensitising acne treatments like retinoids or AHAs.
Use Twice Daily for Best Results
Apply every morning and evening consistently. Clinical testing of the Effaclar H range has been conducted with twice-daily use. Consistent application for at least 4 weeks is recommended to appreciate the full soothing and barrier-repair benefits.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- Your skin is oily or acne-prone and currently undergoing drying treatments (isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, strong retinoids, or prescription topicals)
- Your skin feels tight, rough, or irritated after your acne skincare routine
- You want a lightweight moisturiser that won't undo your acne-fighting efforts
- You're dealing with post-acne redness or lingering blemish marks
- You need a moisturiser that layers seamlessly under SPF without pilling
- You prefer French pharmacy dermocosmetics backed by clinical testing
- You want prebiotic microbiome support for long-term skin health
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) β the ferment and fatty acid esters will likely trigger breakouts
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin and need a richer, occlusive moisturiser
- You are highly fragrance-sensitive β the formula does contain Parfum
- You are seeking a fully vegan and cruelty-free option (the brand is not certified)
- You need strong niacinamide action at 5β10% for sebum control
- You have a known sensitivity or allergy to Myristyl Myristate
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The ultra-fine, non-greasy texture was engineered specifically for oily skin fragilised by drying treatments. Absorbs in seconds without adding shine or heaviness β the ideal companion for oil-control routines.
Balances beautifully across T-zone and drier cheek areas. Provides adequate hydration without overwhelming oilier zones β a versatile everyday option for combination skin.
Excellent compensating moisturiser for skin stressed by acne treatments. Clinically tested under dermatological control. Note: Myristyl Myristate may cause congestion for a small subset of highly acne-prone individuals β patch test first.
Formulated with a physiological pH and soothing actives (panthenol, thermal spring water, glycerin). However, the presence of fragrance means those with fragrance sensitivity should patch test before committing to full use.
The lightweight texture may not provide sufficient occlusion for very dry or severely dehydrated skin. Those with dry skin may find it works better as a day cream layered under a richer night cream, rather than as a standalone moisturiser.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Soothing & Comfort
Skin feels less tight, dry, and irritated almost immediately. Glycerin and panthenol deliver rapid relief from the discomfort caused by drying acne treatments. The ultra-fine texture absorbs cleanly without the sticky or greasy residue common in richer creams.
~90% noticed soothing reliefImproved Skin Comfort & Reduced Tightness
Consistent twice-daily application restores baseline hydration. Skin texture begins to smooth out; patches of flakiness from retinoid or benzoyl peroxide use become less visible. The barrier begins to recover from treatment-induced compromise.
~75% reported improved comfortVisible Reduction in Redness & Dryness
Niacinamide and the prebiotic complex begin to show more visible skin-calming effects. Redness and irritation decrease noticeably. A clinical study on the Effaclar H range recorded a 64% reduction in skin dryness scores after 4 weeks of use.
~64% reduction in dryness (clinical)Post-Acne Marks Fading
With consistent use, the combined action of niacinamide and Bixa Orellana extract begins to visibly lighten post-acne erythema (red marks) and hyperpigmentation. Skin tone appears more even. Pore appearance may look refined thanks to better sebum regulation.
~60% noticed improved skin toneMicrobiome Rebalancing & Long-Term Barrier Strength
Aqua Posae Filiformis (Vitreoscilla Ferment) works cumulatively to strengthen the skin microbiome, leading to more resilient skin that's less reactive and better equipped to handle ongoing acne treatments. Overall skin comfort and health improve significantly.
~70% reported long-term skin resilienceβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Ultra-lightweight, non-greasy texture ideal for oily skin
- Absorbs fast β no sticky or heavy residue
- Genuinely soothes skin stressed by acne treatments
- Clinically proven 64% reduction in dryness in 4 weeks
- Prebiotic Aqua Posae Filiformis for microbiome health
- Physiological pH β kind to the skin barrier
- Effectively reduces post-acne redness (niacinamide)
- Layers beautifully under SPF without pilling
- Free from parabens, harsh alcohols, and sulfates
- Dermatologically tested on acne treatment skin
β Criticized
- Small 40ml tube feels insufficient for the price
- Contains Parfum (fragrance) β not truly fragrance-free
- Not safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- Myristyl Myristate may cause congestion for some users
- Niacinamide at ~2% is lower than the 5β10% clinical range for sebum control
- Not vegan; not cruelty-free certified
- May not provide enough moisture for very dry or severely compromised skin
- Limited availability in the USA (mainly via international or French pharmacy retailers)
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Shares the lightweight gel-cream texture and non-greasy finish. Key humectants include hyaluronic acid rather than glycerin + panthenol. Lacks Effaclar H's prebiotic complex and niacinamide, but delivers excellent oil-free hydration for acne-prone skin at a fraction of the cost. Widely available. Not FA-safe either.
Contains niacinamide (4%), hyaluronic acid, and three essential ceramides β arguably stronger barrier repair than Effaclar H. The MVE (MultiVesicular Emulsion) technology provides sustained release of actives. However, it lacks the prebiotic technology and Bixa Orellana extract. Fragrance-free β better choice for fragrance-sensitive users.
A lightweight serum-moisturiser hybrid for acne-prone skin. Contains niacinamide, glycerin, and soothing agents. Well-formulated and fragrance-free, but heavier texture and higher price than Effaclar H. No prebiotic component. Better suited to those who want zero fragrance and a brand with transparent formulation philosophy.
π Comparison with Competitors
La Roche-Posay Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser β Featured
~Β£14 / ~$18Bioderma SΓ©bium Hydra Compensating Moisturiser
~£15 / ~$19Avène Cleanance Hydra Soothing Cream
~Β£16 / ~$20Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream (Oil-Free)
~Β£12 / ~$14π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging confirming this. Use the product within 12 months of first opening for optimal efficacy and safety.
Store at room temperature (below 25Β°C / 77Β°F), away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humidity. Do not refrigerate unless advised on packaging β extreme cold can affect the emulsion texture.
Comes in a 40ml aluminium or plastic tube with a screw cap. The tube format is hygienic (minimises product-air contact) and allows controlled dispensing of the amount needed per application.
Yes β at 40ml, it is well within the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on baggage on most airlines (EU, UK, US TSA standards). Place in your clear toiletry bag for security checks.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters β the four main categories of skincare ingredients typically restricted during pregnancy. However, it does contain Parfum (fragrance), which some healthcare professionals advise minimising as a precaution. The fragrance is listed as the last ingredient, indicating a very low concentration. We always recommend consulting your OB-GYN, midwife, or dermatologist before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No β this product is not considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Vitreoscilla Ferment (a fermented ingredient), Myristyl Myristate, Glyceryl Stearate SE (esters), and fatty acids including Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, and Myristic Acid. If you are dealing with fungal acne, look for a moisturiser that is explicitly fungal-acne safe, such as one formulated without ferments, fatty acid esters, and long-chain fatty acids.
Yes β and in fact, this moisturiser was specifically designed to be used alongside such actives. It is an ideal compensating moisturiser for skin that has become dry, irritated, or sensitised from retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene), chemical exfoliants (AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid, BHAs like salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, or other potent acne treatments. Apply your active treatments first and allow them to absorb, then apply Effaclar H Iso-Biome on top. In the morning, always follow with SPF β especially if you are using photosensitising actives.
It is best suited to oily and acne-prone skin types, particularly those currently undergoing drying acne treatments (isotretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, prescription topicals). Combination skin types also respond very well to its balancing formula. It is suitable for sensitive skin as long as fragrance is not a trigger. Those with very dry skin may find it provides insufficient moisture as a standalone product and may need to layer it under a richer night cream. It is not recommended for those with fungal acne.
Soothing and comfort benefits are typically felt within the first 1β3 days of use. Visible reduction in redness, dryness, and irritation is generally reported within 1β2 weeks. Clinical testing on the Effaclar H range demonstrated a 64% reduction in skin dryness scores after 4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Improvements in post-acne marks and skin tone become more noticeable from weeks 6β8 onwards, as niacinamide and the Bixa Orellana extract work cumulatively. For microbiome rebalancing, the full benefit is seen after 2β3 months of consistent use.
Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser is applied as the final step before sunscreen in your AM routine. In your PM routine, it is the last step overall (unless you apply a facial oil on top). The correct order is: Cleanser β Toner or Essence (optional) β Serum or Treatment (retinoid, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, etc.) β Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser β SPF (morning only). Apply to dry skin and allow to absorb before applying sunscreen to prevent pilling.
La Roche-Posay markets the product as non-comedogenic, and it has been clinically tested. The majority of ingredients are rated 0β1 on the comedogenicity scale (glycerin, squalane, panthenol, niacinamide, dimethicone). However, the formula does contain Myristyl Myristate, an emollient that carries an individual comedogenicity score of 5/5 on some reference scales. In practice, comedogenicity is dose- and skin-dependent β many people with acne-prone skin use this product without experiencing breakouts. We assign it an overall rating of 2/5, and always recommend patch testing on your jawline for 1β2 weeks before applying it to your entire face.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser is 12 months, indicated by the open jar symbol on the packaging. With twice-daily use (a pea-sized to dime-sized amount per application), the 40ml tube typically lasts approximately 6β8 weeks of consistent use, well within the 12-month PAO window. Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight, to maintain formula stability and efficacy throughout its lifespan.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser is a standout compensating moisturiser for anyone whose skin is being compromised by heavy-duty acne treatments. Its prebiotic microbiome technology (Aqua Posae Filiformis), combined with squalane, niacinamide, and Vitamin B5, delivers science-backed relief and real, clinically measured results β a 64% reduction in dryness scores in just 4 weeks. The ultra-fine texture absorbs without greasiness, making it a reliable daily companion for oily and combination skin types. The main caveats β a compact 40ml size, the presence of fragrance, and fatty acid esters that disqualify it for fungal acne sufferers β keep it from a perfect score. But for its intended audience (oily, acne-prone skin fragilised by drying treatments), few French pharmacy moisturisers do the job as elegantly and effectively as this one.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|