Episoft AC
Episoft AC
Product Description
A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer with microencapsulated SPF 30 sunscreen specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Combines hydration and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection in one dermatologist-recommended formula that leaves no white cast and helps prevent post-acne hyperpigmentation.
โจ Texture & Feel
Microencapsulated Sunscreen
Unique encapsulation technology prevents UV filters from clogging pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
Broad Spectrum Protection
SPF 30 PA++++ shields against both UVA rays (aging) and UVB rays (burning) for comprehensive sun defense.
Anti-Hyperpigmentation
Helps prevent and reduce post-acne dark spots by protecting skin from UV-induced melanin production.
45% Hydration Boost
Clinically shown to elevate skin hydration levels while replenishing the skin's natural moisture barrier.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Oxybenzone and Octinoxate - chemical UV filters that may cross the placental barrier and have been detected in breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride which has anti-fungal properties against Malassezia. No fermented ingredients or problematic fatty acids.
Dermatologically tested formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Will not clog pores or cause acne breakouts.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. Suitable for reactive and sensitive skin types.
Contains Oxybenzone and Octinoxate which are banned in Hawaii and some regions due to potential coral reef impact.
Safe to use with retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and other acne treatments. Apply sunscreen as final step in your AM routine.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
โ๏ธ Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) UVB Filter
A widely-used organic UV filter that absorbs UVB rays (280-320nm) to protect skin from sunburn and DNA damage.
- Protection: Effective UVB absorption, prevents sunburn
- Texture: Helps create lightweight, elegant formulations
๐ก๏ธ Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone) UVA/UVB Filter
A chemical UV filter providing protection against both UVA and UVB rays, commonly used in sunscreens since 1978.
- Broad Spectrum: Absorbs both UVA (320-400nm) and UVB rays
- Photostability: Helps stabilize other UV filters like Avobenzone
๐ Avobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane) UVA Filter
The gold standard UVA filter providing excellent protection across the entire UVA spectrum (310-400nm).
- UVA Protection: Peak absorption at 360nm, covers UVA1 and UVA2
- Anti-Aging: Protects against photoaging caused by UVA rays
๐ง Glycerin Humectant Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, more effective than hyaluronic acid in some studies.
- 2016 Study: Found to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Barrier Support: Antimicrobial and antiviral properties support wound healing
๐ฅฅ Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient
Derived from coconut oil, this lightweight emollient softens skin and prevents moisture loss without clogging pores.
- Fungal Acne Safe: Contains only C8 and C10 fatty acids which Malassezia cannot metabolize
- Anti-Fungal: Studies show it inhibits Malassezia growth
๐ Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Soothing
A precursor to Vitamin B5 that provides deep hydration and helps soothe irritated, acne-treated skin.
- Wound Healing: Promotes skin regeneration and repair
- Hydration: Penetrates deeply to hydrate from within
13 ingredients
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Benzophenone-3, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Propanediol, Propylene Glycol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Panthenol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Disodium EDTA
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply as the last step in your AM routine. This product functions as both moisturizer and sunscreen, so no separate SPF needed. Reapply every 2-3 hours for continuous protection.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Complete your morning skincare routine including toner and serums.
Apply Generously
Take about a pea-sized amount (or two finger lengths) and dot it across your face, neck, and ears.
Blend Evenly
Gently massage in upward circular motions until fully absorbed. Don't forget hairline and jawline.
Wait Before Makeup
Allow 5-10 minutes for the product to set before applying makeup. Works well as a makeup base.
Reapply Regularly
Reapply every 2-3 hours when outdoors, or after swimming/sweating for continuous protection.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone or blemish-prone skin
- You need a moisturizer + SPF combo product
- You experience post-acne dark spots or hyperpigmentation
- You want a fragrance-free, non-irritating formula
- You have combination to oily skin
- You're on acne treatments (retinoids, BPO, etc.)
- You want pharmaceutical-grade quality at affordable price
- You prefer products without white cast
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You need higher SPF protection (SPF 50+)
- You have very oily skin and prefer matte finish
- You need reef-safe sunscreen for ocean activities
- You prefer mineral/physical sunscreens only
- You need extended water resistance (80+ minutes)
- You're sensitive to chemical UV filters
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight formula but may feel slightly dewy. Very oily skin types may prefer a matte-finish alternative.
Provides excellent hydration with 45% moisture boost. Perfect as a moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid.
Ideal balance of hydration without heaviness. Adapts well to different face zones.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologically tested. Soothes rather than irritates.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, won't trigger breakouts.
๐ Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration & Protection
Skin feels moisturized and protected. No white cast, comfortable lightweight feel throughout the day.
95% noticed immediate hydrationReduced Irritation & Skin Comfort
Skin adjusts to the formula. Those using acne treatments notice less dryness and irritation from medications.
80% reported reduced skin sensitivityImproved Skin Texture
Consistent use shows improvement in overall skin texture and reduced appearance of post-acne marks.
70% saw clearer, more even skinVisible Hyperpigmentation Reduction
Sun protection prevents new dark spots while existing post-acne hyperpigmentation begins to fade.
65% noticed lighter dark spotsโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Dermatologist recommended and prescribed
- No white cast - works on all skin tones
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Doesn't cause acne breakouts
- Works well under makeup
- Helps with post-acne dark spots
- Fragrance-free and gentle
- Affordable pharmaceutical-grade product
- 2-in-1 moisturizer and sunscreen
โ Criticized
- Can feel greasy on extremely oily skin
- Only SPF 30 (some prefer SPF 50+)
- Tube packaging hard to squeeze at end
- Contains chemical UV filters
- Not pregnancy/breastfeeding safe
- Not reef-safe formula
- May need powder to reduce shine
- Requires reapplication every 2-3 hours
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar non-comedogenic formula with higher SPF 50 protection. Oil-free gel texture may suit very oily skin better. Contains Niacinamide for added acne benefits.
More affordable option with similar SPF level. Gel-based formula for oily skin. May not provide as much hydration for dry skin types.
Higher SPF with matte finish. Contains Helioplex technology for photostability. Less moisturizing - may need separate moisturizer underneath.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Episoft AC SPF 30 (This Product)
โน639/75gRe'equil Ultra Matte Dry Touch SPF 50
โน645/50gRe'equil Oxybenzone-Free SPF 50
โน395/50gCetaphil PRO Oil Absorbing SPF 30
โน899/50ml๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check expiry date on packaging - typically 24-36 months from manufacture when sealed.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep below 30ยฐC (86ยฐF). Do not refrigerate.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Opaque packaging protects UV filters from light degradation.
Yes, 75g size is under 100ml TSA limit. Suitable for carry-on luggage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No, Episoft AC is NOT recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) and Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate), which are chemical UV filters that can cross the placental barrier and have been detected in breast milk. These ingredients have shown potential endocrine-disrupting properties in some studies. Pregnant and nursing mothers should opt for mineral sunscreens containing only Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide as active ingredients.
Yes! Episoft AC is fungal acne (malassezia) safe. It contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, which is made of C8 and C10 fatty acids that Malassezia yeast cannot metabolize - in fact, studies show these fatty acids have anti-fungal properties against Malassezia. The formula is free from fermented ingredients, problematic fatty acids (C11-C24), polysorbates, and other malassezia-triggering ingredients. It's an excellent sunscreen choice for those dealing with fungal acne.
Yes, Episoft AC is compatible with most active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. In fact, using sunscreen is essential when using these actives as they can increase sun sensitivity. Apply your actives first (retinol at night, vitamin C in the morning), let them absorb, then apply Episoft AC as your final morning step. The gentle, fragrance-free formula helps soothe skin that may be sensitized by active treatments.
Episoft AC is best suited for acne-prone, combination, dry, and sensitive skin types. It was specifically formulated for acne-prone skin with its non-comedogenic, microencapsulated sunscreen technology. Those with dry or combination skin appreciate the 45% hydration boost. However, people with very oily skin who prefer a completely matte finish may want to consider alternatives like Re'equil Ultra Matte or use a mattifying powder over Episoft AC.
Results timeline varies by concern: Immediate (Day 1) - you'll notice hydration and protection with no white cast. Week 1-2 - reduced irritation, especially if using acne treatments. Week 4-6 - improved skin texture and prevention of new dark spots. Month 2-3 - visible reduction in existing post-acne hyperpigmentation. Consistent daily use is key for best results, especially for anti-pigmentation benefits.
Episoft AC should be the LAST step in your morning skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serums, and any spot treatments. Since it's a moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid, you don't need a separate moisturizer or sunscreen in the morning. Wait 5-10 minutes after application before applying makeup. Episoft AC is designed for daytime use only - use a separate moisturizer without SPF for your nighttime routine.
No, Episoft AC will not clog pores. It has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is certified non-comedogenic. The microencapsulated sunscreen technology is specifically designed to prevent UV filters from settling into pores. Key ingredients like Glycerin (comedogenic rating: 0) and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (comedogenic rating: 0-1) are proven safe for acne-prone skin. It's dermatologically tested and doesn't cause acne breakouts.
Episoft AC has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This means you should use the product within 12 months of first opening it. The sealed product typically has a shelf life of 24-36 months from manufacture date (check expiry on packaging). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain effectiveness. Don't use if the texture, color, or smell has changed.
Verdict: Episoft AC is an excellent dermatologist-recommended moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Its microencapsulated SPF 30 formula provides reliable broad-spectrum protection without clogging pores or triggering breakouts. The fragrance-free, paraben-free formulation makes it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin. While it excels for combination, dry, and acne-prone skin types, those with very oily skin may prefer a matte-finish alternative. The main drawbacks are its chemical UV filters (not pregnancy-safe or reef-safe) and lower SPF compared to some competitors. Overall, it offers outstanding value for pharmaceutical-grade quality at an affordable price point, making it a solid choice for daily sun protection during acne treatment.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 6 |
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Benzophenone-3
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 2 |
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|