Epidermal Repair
Epidermal Repair
Product Description
Product overview
A therapeutic barrier repair cream formulated with beta glucan and centella asiatica to soothe, protect, and restore compromised or post-procedure skin. Clinically shown to diminish redness and accelerate the skin's natural healing process.
Barrier Restoration
Combines beta glucan and centella asiatica to accelerate the restoration of a compromised skin barrier after procedures or environmental damage.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Restoration
Combines beta glucan and centella asiatica to accelerate the restoration of a compromised skin barrier after procedures or environmental damage.
Redness Reduction
Clinically shown to greatly diminish redness and blotchiness in sensitized, dehydrated, or post-procedure skin.
Soothing Complex
Sodium palmitoyl proline and nymphaea alba flower extract work together to calm irritation and reduce discomfort on compromised skin.
Protective Veil
Forms a silicone-based protective layer over traumatized skin to shield it while the biological healing process takes place underneath.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains ethylhexyl palmitate (a fatty acid ester) and isohexadecane, which can feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with fungal acne.
Rated 2/5 on comedogenic scale. Ethylhexyl palmitate has some pore-clogging potential, but the silicone-based formula is generally non-comedogenic per the brand.
Specifically designed for use after microdermabrasion, laser resurfacing, chemical peels, IPL, and during retinoid therapy. Tested under dermatological control.
No added fragrance, no drying alcohols, no parabens, and no dyes. Minimal risk of irritation on already sensitized skin.
Dimethicone is the second ingredient and creates an occlusive protective layer. Some users may find the silicone feel heavy or may prefer silicone-free options.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Carboxymethyl Beta-GlucanProven
A naturally occurring polysaccharide that promotes epidermal renewal. Beta glucan stimulates tissue granulation, collagen deposition, and accelerated cell turnover to help restore a damaged skin barrier.
- Function: Stimulates renewal of the skin's upper layers and facilitates barrier restoration
- Research: Studies show beta-1,3-glucan promotes wound healing and accelerates tissue repair
- Benefit: Creates a protective film while supporting the skin's natural recovery process
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
A titrated extract of the Asian medicinal herb known as gotu kola. Stimulates collagen synthesis and provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection for stressed or traumatized skin.
- Function: Stimulates synthesis of collagen types I and III by fibroblasts
- Research: Prevents excessive proliferation of connective tissue (keloids, hypertrophic scars)
- Benefit: Creates a hostile environment for bacteria and fungi, protecting sensitive skin
Sodium Palmitoyl Proline + Nymphaea Alba Flower ExtractPromising
A synergistic duo that soothes compromised skin and reduces discomfort. Sodium palmitoyl proline is a lipopeptide that calms inflammation, while white water lily extract provides anti-irritant properties.
- Function: Soothes compromised skin and reduces discomfort and irritation
- Research: The combination helps prevent cell damage and reduce redness synergistically
- Benefit: Targets the inflammatory response that follows cosmetic procedures
Dimethicone 2nd ingredientProven
A high-concentration silicone that forms a breathable protective barrier over the skin. Acts as an occlusive to prevent transepidermal water loss while allowing gases to pass through.
- Function: Creates a protective seal, softens scars, and increases skin elasticity
- Research: Dimethicone-based scar gels are clinically proven to soften and flatten scars
- Benefit: Locks in moisture and shields healing skin from external irritants
Glycerin 3rd ingredientProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration levels. Found at a high concentration in this formula to support dehydrated, compromised skin.
- Function: Attracts water to skin surface, strengthens moisture barrier
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — will not clog pores
- Irritancy: 0 — extremely well tolerated, even on broken skin
20 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, C30-45 Alkyl Dimethicone, Isohexadecane, Dipropylene Glycol, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Magnesium Sulfate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethiconol, Sodium Palmitoyl Proline, Sodium Benzoate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Carboxymethyl Beta-Glucan, Citric Acid, Nymphaea Alba Extract/Nymphaea Alba Flower Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after serums and before heavier moisturizer. During post-procedure healing, it can be used as a standalone moisturizer. Always follow with broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep & Dispense
Once or twice daily, or as needed, dispense a small amount of Epidermal Repair onto clean fingertips. A pea-sized amount is sufficient for the full face.
Apply & Pat
Gently pat the formula onto affected areas. Avoid rubbing or dragging, especially on freshly treated or post-procedure skin. Allow it to absorb for 1–2 minutes.
Follow with SPF
In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+). SkinCeuticals recommends Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 for post-procedure protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You recently had a cosmetic procedure (laser, microdermabrasion, chemical peel, IPL)
- Your skin is sensitized from retinoid therapy or prescription treatments
- You experience redness, blotchiness, or a compromised skin barrier
- You need a fragrance-free, gentle cream for reactive or dehydrated skin
- You want a dermatologist-recommended post-procedure recovery product
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne — this formula contains ethylhexyl palmitate and isohexadecane
- You prefer silicone-free products — dimethicone is the second ingredient
- You have very oily or acne-prone skin — some users report occasional breakouts
- You want a large-volume product — 40ml for ~$90 is a premium price per ml
- You need deep anti-aging treatment — this is a repair cream, not an anti-aging serum
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESDeeply hydrating and occlusive formula provides lasting moisture and barrier protection for dry, dehydrated skin.
Specifically formulated for sensitized skin. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and clinically tested for post-procedure use.
Works well for normal skin during periods of stress, environmental damage, or post-procedure recovery. May feel rich for everyday use.
May feel too occlusive on oily zones if used daily. Best reserved for targeted application on compromised areas or during recovery.
Contains ethylhexyl palmitate which may aggravate acne in some users. Use cautiously or opt for lighter barrier repair products.
Results timeline
WEEK 3–4Instant Soothing Relief
Immediate calming sensation on application. Skin feels protected with a silky, comfortable barrier. No stinging reported even on freshly treated skin.
90% noticed instant comfortVisible Redness Reduction
Noticeable decrease in redness and blotchiness. Post-procedure skin begins to feel less tight and irritated. Skin appears calmer and more even-toned.
75% noticed less rednessBarrier Restoration Underway
Skin feels stronger, less reactive, and more hydrated. Peeling and flaking from procedures diminishes. Redness continues to fade significantly.
80% reported improved skin textureFull Recovery & Renewed Skin
Skin barrier feels fully restored. Complexion appears even, smooth, and healthy. Post-procedure healing is largely complete with minimal to no scarring.
85% achieved full recoveryRatings by platform
450+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional post-procedure recovery — praised by estheticians and dermatologists
- Instantly soothes redness, irritation, and discomfort without stinging
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and alcohol-free — ideal for compromised skin
- Elegant texture — dense cream that absorbs lighter than expected
- Versatile use: post-procedure, retinoid therapy, environmental damage, windburn
- A little goes a long way — small amount covers the entire face
Criticized
- Very expensive — $90 for 40ml (~$2.25/ml) is premium pricing
- Small tube runs out fast during extended healing periods
- Tube packaging wastes product — hard to squeeze out remaining cream
- Contains ethylhexyl palmitate — not suitable for fungal acne
- Some users with oily/acne-prone skin report breakouts
- Not widely available — primarily through dermatologist offices and specialty retailers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also uses centella-derived ingredients (madecassoside) and dimethicone for barrier repair. Adds panthenol (B5) and shea butter. Thicker balm texture, broader multi-purpose use. The closest affordable alternative for post-procedure care.
Lighter gel texture specifically tested post-procedure, post-laser, and post-stitches. Contains 21% glycerin and madecassoside. More similar in intended use but a different formula approach with no beta glucan.
K-beauty option with centella asiatica water as the first ingredient plus zinc oxide. Lighter cream texture, better for oily/acne-prone skin. Lacks beta glucan and the silicone-based protective barrier of the SkinCeuticals formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Squeeze tube (40ml). Tip: cut the tube end to access remaining product.
Yes — 40ml is TSA approved for carry-on bags (under 100ml limit).
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. SkinCeuticals Epidermal Repair does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients in this formula are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, always consult your OB-GYN before adding any new product to your routine during pregnancy.
No. Epidermal Repair contains ethylhexyl palmitate (a fatty acid ester) and isohexadecane, both of which can feed malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe barrier repair product instead.
Yes, and it is specifically designed for this purpose. Epidermal Repair is formulated to soothe skin sensitized by retinoid therapy. It can be applied after retinol or prescription retinoids to calm irritation. It is also safe to layer over vitamin C serums. If using AHA or BHA, apply Epidermal Repair after the acid has absorbed to help soothe and protect the skin. Avoid applying directly on broken or actively peeling skin.
Epidermal Repair is best suited for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types, particularly when the skin is compromised by procedures or environmental damage. It can feel heavy on oily or combination skin for daily use, but works well as a targeted treatment for anyone recovering from laser treatments, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or retinoid irritation.
Most users experience instant soothing relief upon the first application. Visible redness reduction is typically noticed within 2–3 days. Full barrier restoration and healing generally occurs within 2–4 weeks of consistent use, depending on the severity of the skin compromise. Many users describe it as a "liquid bandage" that provides comfort from day one.
Apply Epidermal Repair after cleansing, toning, and serum steps. It sits in the moisturizer position of your routine. During post-procedure healing, it can be used as a standalone moisturizer. If your skin needs additional moisture, layer a heavier cream on top. Always follow with broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning.
The product is labeled non-comedogenic by SkinCeuticals and has an estimated comedogenic rating of 2/5. However, it does contain ethylhexyl palmitate, which has a moderate comedogenic potential (rated 4/5 individually). Most users do not experience breakouts, but those with very oily or acne-prone skin should patch test first. Some reviews do mention occasional breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. A little goes a long way — a pea-sized amount covers the full face. If used once daily, the 40ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for maximum shelf life.
Verdict: SkinCeuticals Epidermal Repair is a highly effective, dermatologist-grade barrier repair cream that excels at soothing and restoring compromised skin after cosmetic procedures. The combination of beta glucan and centella asiatica delivers measurable results in reducing redness and accelerating healing. The main drawbacks are its steep price (~$90 for 40ml) and the presence of ethylhexyl palmitate, which makes it unsuitable for fungal acne and potentially problematic for very acne-prone skin. If budget is a concern, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+ offers a compelling alternative at a fraction of the cost. However, for those seeking a medical-grade post-procedure cream backed by clinical testing and recommended by dermatologists worldwide, Epidermal Repair remains a gold-standard choice.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|