Even Tone Super Glow Serum
Even Tone Super Glow Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A potent brightening and antioxidant serum powered by 10% L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) and 2% Kojic Acid, formulated to visibly reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging — while evening skin tone for a lit-from-within super glow. Ideal for diverse skin tones and melanin-rich complexions.
10% L-Ascorbic Acid (True Vitamin C)
The gold-standard form of Vitamin C at an effective 10% concentration. Brightens, reduces dark spots, and boosts collagen production for firmer, younger-looking skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY10% L-Ascorbic Acid (True Vitamin C)
The gold-standard form of Vitamin C at an effective 10% concentration. Brightens, reduces dark spots, and boosts collagen production for firmer, younger-looking skin.
2% Kojic Acid Brightening Complex
A proven melanin-inhibitor derived from fungi that exfoliates dead skin buildup and visibly reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and uneven tone.
Ferulic Acid + Vitamin E Antioxidant Shield
Ferulic acid stabilizes and amplifies the power of Vitamin C and Vitamin E (Tocopherol), creating a synergistic antioxidant trio for maximum free-radical defense.
Alpha-Arbutin + Azelaic Acid Spot Correction
Alpha-arbutin gently inhibits tyrosinase activity to prevent dark spot formation, while azelaic acid tackles post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from blemishes.
Sodium Hyaluronate + Panthenol Hydration
Sodium hyaluronate (small-molecule HA) penetrates deeper to plump and hydrate, while panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) softens and soothes the skin barrier.
Glutathione + Green Tea Antioxidants
Glutathione is a master antioxidant that brightens from within, while Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract delivers polyphenols to calm inflammation and protect against UV-induced damage.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. Contains Retinyl Palmitate (a retinoid derivative), which is generally advised to avoid during pregnancy. The serum also contains Kojic Acid — consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use.
Not considered safe for fungal acne. Contains Polysorbate 20, Laureth-23, and Glycerin — ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast. Those with fungal acne should choose an alternative serum.
Certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. The formula is fully vegan with no animal-derived ingredients.
Extremely low pore-clogging potential. Key actives like Ascorbic Acid, Niacinamide, and Sodium Hyaluronate have a comedogenic rating of 0. Generally safe for acne-prone skin.
The 10% Ascorbic Acid (L-AA) concentration may cause tingling or mild irritation on sensitive or compromised skin. Start with once daily application and build up tolerance gradually.
Vitamin C, Kojic Acid, and Alpha-Arbutin can increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory when using this serum to protect results and prevent further dark spots.
Contains Retinyl Palmitate, a mild retinoid ester. While weaker than retinol, some research suggests using retinoid-containing products at night to minimize any UV interaction.
Developed specifically for diverse and melanin-rich skin tones by aesthetician Rachel Roff. Free from harsh bleaching agents like hydroquinone — uses gentle, skin-safe brighteners instead.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAscorbic Acid (L-Ascorbic Acid / Vitamin C) ~10%Proven
The most bioavailable and research-backed form of Vitamin C. At 10%, this concentration is clinically effective for brightening, antioxidant defense, and collagen stimulation — without the extreme irritation of higher concentrations.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin synthesis and fade existing dark spots.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV and pollution, preventing premature aging.
- Collagen synthesis: Essential cofactor for collagen production; helps improve skin firmness and elasticity.
- Synergy: Combined with Ferulic Acid and Tocopherol (Vit E) in this formula for 8x enhanced antioxidant efficacy.
Kojic Acid ~2%Proven
A naturally derived brightening agent (from fermented rice and fungi) clinically proven to inhibit tyrosinase and reduce the formation of melanin. At 2%, it's one of the most effective concentrations for hyperpigmentation.
- Mechanism: Chelates copper ions required for tyrosinase activity, preventing melanin production at the source.
- Exfoliation: Mild exfoliating effect removes dead skin buildup to reveal brighter skin underneath.
- Dark spot fading: Clinically shown to improve the appearance of melasma, post-acne marks, and sun damage.
Alpha-Arbutin ~1–2%Proven
A stable, gentle skin-brightening compound derived from the bearberry plant. Alpha-Arbutin is widely considered safer and more stable than beta-arbutin or hydroquinone for daily use on all skin tones.
- Tyrosinase inhibition: Slowly inhibits melanin production without the cytotoxic effects of hydroquinone.
- Stability: Alpha form is significantly more stable than beta-arbutin and more effective at lower concentrations.
- Combination effect: Works synergistically with Vitamin C and Kojic Acid to tackle hyperpigmentation through multiple pathways.
Ferulic Acid ~0.5%Proven
A plant-derived phenolic antioxidant that is particularly famous in skincare for its ability to stabilize and boost Vitamins C and E while providing its own photoprotective and skin-brightening benefits.
- Antioxidant synergy: Studies show ferulic acid doubles the photoprotection of Vitamins C and E (from 4-fold to 8-fold).
- Stabilizer: Helps prevent oxidation of L-Ascorbic Acid, extending the serum's active potency.
- Photoprotection: Approved as a sunscreen ingredient in Japan at concentrations up to 10%.
Azelaic Acid low %Proven
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid (found in grains) with multi-functional benefits: brightening, anti-inflammatory, and gentle exfoliation. Particularly effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase and reduces formation of post-blemish dark marks.
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and is one of few brighteners that is pregnancy-safe (at low concentrations in rinse-off products — check with your doctor for topical leave-on use).
- Gentle exfoliation: Normalizes keratinocyte turnover without significant irritation.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–5%Proven
One of the most versatile and well-tolerated actives in skincare. Niacinamide works across multiple skin concerns simultaneously, making it an ideal partner ingredient for Vitamin C and brightening actives.
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide and fatty acid production in the skin, strengthening the moisture barrier.
- Pore appearance: Reduces visible pore size with consistent use over 8–12 weeks.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, reducing dark spot appearance.
- Anti-aging: Reduces fine lines and improves skin elasticity per clinical studies.
Glutathione tracePromising
Often called the "master antioxidant," glutathione is a tripeptide naturally produced by the body. As a topical ingredient, it supports skin brightness and helps neutralize oxidative stress.
- Brightening mechanism: Shifts melanin production toward lighter pheomelanin and away from darker eumelanin.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) and regenerates other antioxidants like Vitamin C.
- Note: Topical absorption of glutathione is limited; oral forms have stronger evidence, but topical use alongside other actives adds meaningful antioxidant support.
Euterpe Oleracea (Açaí) Fruit Extract tracePromising
Açaí berry extract is one of the most antioxidant-rich botanicals known, containing anthocyanins, polyphenols, and omega fatty acids that support skin radiance and protection against environmental damage.
- ORAC value: Açaí has one of the highest ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) scores of any fruit, making it a potent free-radical scavenger.
- Skin conditioning: Fatty acids help soften and nourish skin while polyphenols contribute to anti-inflammatory effects.
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract traceProven
Rich in EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and other catechins, green tea extract is one of the most studied botanical antioxidants. It calms inflammation, protects against UV-induced damage, and supports an even complexion.
- Anti-inflammatory: EGCG is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that reduces redness and irritation.
- Photoprotection: Provides complementary UV protection alongside daily SPF use.
Sodium Hyaluronate low %Proven
The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid with a smaller molecular weight than standard HA, allowing it to penetrate more deeply into the skin layers for superior hydration, plumping, and moisture retention.
- Holds moisture: Capable of retaining up to 1,000x its weight in water, providing lasting hydration without greasiness.
- Plumping effect: Temporarily fills in fine lines and improves skin fullness with consistent use.
Retinyl Palmitate tracePromising
A mild retinoid ester (ester of retinol and palmitic acid) that must convert to retinol and then to retinoic acid in skin. Much gentler than retinol or tretinoin, with limited but real anti-aging activity.
- Cell turnover: Supports mild cell renewal, helping to fade dark spots over time.
- Anti-aging: Weakest form of topical retinoid; contributes to the overall anti-aging efficacy of the formula alongside stronger actives.
25 ingredients
Water, Methylpropanediol, Ascorbic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Laureth-23, Kojic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin, Azelaic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Diethanolamine, Ethoxydiglycol, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Ferulic Acid, Glutathione, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Phenoxyethanol, Retinyl Palmitate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Triethanolamine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing/toning on dry skin. Allow to fully absorb (~30 sec) before layering moisturizer. Always follow with SPF 30+ in the AM. Shake well before use.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities. Follow with your preferred toner to balance skin pH — a balanced pH helps Vitamin C serums perform optimally.
Shake Well
Shake the bottle gently before each use. The serum contains actives that benefit from even distribution. Note the color can naturally vary from light yellow to amber — this is normal.
Apply 4–6 Drops
Dispense 4–6 drops into your palm or directly onto fingertips. Smooth evenly over your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Use gentle pressing motions rather than rubbing.
Allow Full Absorption
Wait approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute for the serum to fully absorb before applying additional products. Do not layer other strong actives (retinol, AHAs) on top in the same routine.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with your moisturizer to lock in actives and hydration. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30 or higher — this is essential when using brightening actives to protect results.
Frequency: 1–2x Daily
Use once or twice daily. If new to Vitamin C serums or have sensitive skin, start with once daily (AM recommended) and gradually increase to twice daily as your skin acclimates.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or post-acne marks (PIH)
- You want to brighten dull, uneven skin tone
- You're looking for a Vitamin C serum formulated for melanin-rich/darker skin tones
- You want to address sun damage and early signs of aging
- You're seeking a vegan, cruelty-free, and clean formula
- You have oily, normal, or combination skin looking for a non-greasy glow
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (due to Retinyl Palmitate and Kojic Acid)
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — contains polysorbates and glycerin
- You have very reactive or rosacea-prone skin sensitive to acids
- You need a high-potency retinoid for significant wrinkle correction (use a dedicated retinol)
- You prefer a fragrance-absolutely-zero formula (contains natural citrus oil)
- You need a larger bottle — 0.5 fl oz runs out quickly for twice-daily use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, fast-absorbing serum won't add shine or clog pores. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum. Azelaic Acid addresses post-acne PIH effectively. Non-comedogenic formula rated 1/5.
Balances beautifully across T-zone and drier areas. The multi-active formula addresses both oily zone concerns and dry patch hydration needs simultaneously.
Ideal candidate. All brightening and anti-aging benefits without specific barrier concerns. Delivers the luminous, even-tone results the formula is designed for.
Sodium Hyaluronate and Panthenol provide hydration but dry skin types should follow with a richer moisturizer. May feel slightly tight at 10% Vitamin C without adequate moisturizing.
Use with care. 10% L-Ascorbic Acid and Kojic Acid may cause initial tingling or redness. Start with once daily use and patch test first. Build up tolerance over 2–3 weeks before going to twice daily.
Specifically formulated for melanin-rich and diverse skin tones. No hydroquinone — uses safe, non-bleaching brighteners. Developed by an aesthetician specializing in skin of color since 2006.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Radiance & Glow
Most users notice an immediate improvement in skin radiance and luminosity after the first few applications. The antioxidant complex gives skin a healthy, lit-from-within glow almost instantly.
80% noticedSkin Texture Improvement
Mild exfoliating action from Kojic Acid and Azelaic Acid begins to refine skin texture. Pores may appear smaller and skin feels smoother to the touch. Some users begin to notice initial fading of lighter spots.
65% noticedVisible Dark Spot Fading
The multi-brightener complex (Vitamin C + Kojic Acid + Alpha-Arbutin + Niacinamide) reaches critical mass. Visible reduction in post-acne marks, sun spots, and areas of uneven pigmentation. Skin tone appears more even overall.
70% noticedSignificant Tone Correction & Anti-Aging
Consistent use reveals significantly more even, brighter, and clearer complexion. Fine lines and early wrinkles appear softened. Users with hyperpigmentation report substantial improvement in dark spot depth and coverage needed with makeup.
60% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective 10% L-Ascorbic Acid at an affordable price point
- Multi-brightener formula tackles dark spots from multiple angles
- Specifically designed for melanin-rich and diverse skin tones
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing — no heavy or greasy residue
- Visible radiance and glow from day one
- Vegan, cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny certified), clean formula
- Fragrance-free formulation (natural citrus from orange peel oil is minimal)
- Accessible in major US retailers (Target, Ulta, Walmart, Amazon)
Criticized
- Small bottle (0.5 fl oz / 15ml) expensive per-ounce for daily use
- Not safe for pregnancy (Retinyl Palmitate) or fungal acne (Polysorbate 20)
- Color variation between bottles can alarm new users
- 10% L-AA may be too potent for very sensitive or reactive skin
- Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil adds a sensitizing risk for some
- Contains Diethanolamine and Triethanolamine — pH adjusters some consider controversial
- Results require consistent 6–8 week commitment to see major dark spot improvement
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin E in a similar brightening serum format. Widely available on Amazon with 100,000+ reviews. Lacks the Kojic Acid + Alpha-Arbutin multi-brightener stack but offers comparable Vitamin C brightening at a lower cost per ounce.
Overlapping actives: Ascorbic Acid (lower at 8%) plus 2% Alpha-Arbutin — targeting the same brightening and dark spot pathways. Fragrance-free and minimalist. Lacks Kojic Acid, Ferulic Acid, and Glutathione. Very affordable option for beginners or those on a strict budget.
Another brand with a long heritage in formulating for melanin-rich and darker skin tones. Targets hyperpigmentation and dark spots at a very accessible price. Different active system (Niacinamide-forward) but shared mission of inclusive skin tone correction.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Due to L-Ascorbic Acid's natural oxidation, aim to use within 3–6 months of opening for peak potency. Discard if serum turns dark brown.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigerator storage (not freezing) can extend Vitamin C stability and is recommended by many dermatologists for L-AA serums.
Dark/amber glass dropper bottle — helps protect light-sensitive Vitamin C from photodegradation. Shake well before each use to ensure even distribution of actives.
Yes — at 0.5 fl oz (15ml), it is well within TSA carry-on liquid limits (under 100ml/3.4 fl oz). The glass dropper bottle is compact for travel; pack upright to prevent leaking.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution and consult your OB/GYN before use. The serum contains Retinyl Palmitate, a mild retinoid ester. Retinoids as a class are generally advised to be avoided during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. It also contains Kojic Acid, which has limited pregnancy safety data. While the concentrations in a topical leave-on serum are low, the safest approach during pregnancy or breastfeeding is to avoid products with retinoid derivatives and consult your healthcare provider. Consider switching to a Vitamin C serum without retinoids for the duration of pregnancy and nursing.
No, this serum is not considered safe for fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). It contains Polysorbate 20, Laureth-23, and Glycerin — ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne breakouts. If you have fungal acne, look for a Vitamin C serum that is specifically formulated without polysorbates, esters, and ferments. The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% is a more fungal-acne-friendly alternative.
Layering this serum with other potent actives requires care. Do not use with another Vitamin C product in the same routine — this is redundant and increases irritation risk. You can use retinol at night while using this serum in the morning, but do not apply them at the same time. AHAs and BHAs (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) should not be layered directly on top of this serum in one routine, as the combination of low-pH Vitamin C and exfoliating acids can cause significant irritation. Instead, use them on alternating evenings or at a different time of day. Always introduce new combinations gradually and monitor your skin's response.
This serum is best suited for normal, oily, combination, and melanin-rich skin types looking to address dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven tone. It was specifically formulated by an aesthetician who specialized in treating diverse and melanin-rich skin tones for over a decade. Dry skin types can use it but should follow with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should proceed with caution, starting with once-daily application and performing a patch test first, as the 10% L-Ascorbic Acid and Kojic Acid combination can cause initial tingling in reactive skin.
You can expect an immediate improvement in skin radiance and glow from the first application — the antioxidant complex gives skin a visible luminosity right away. For visible reduction of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, allow 6–8 weeks of consistent daily use. Significant tone correction and measurable improvement in deep hyperpigmentation typically requires 3 months or more. Skin cell turnover (the mechanism behind dark spot fading) takes approximately 28–40 days per cycle, so patience and consistency are essential. Always pair with daily SPF 30+ to protect your results and prevent new dark spots from forming.
Apply this serum as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing (Step 1) and toning (Step 2), and before moisturizer (Step 4) and SPF (Step 5, AM only). As a general serum/treatment, it goes on clean, slightly damp or dry skin. Allow 30 seconds to 1 minute for full absorption before applying subsequent products. The brand recommends morning use for best results, as Vitamin C provides antioxidant protection against daytime environmental stressors (UV, pollution). You can also use it at night, but morning use is primary.
No, this serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The key active ingredients — Ascorbic Acid, Niacinamide, Alpha-Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Azelaic Acid, and Sodium Hyaluronate — all have comedogenic ratings of 0–1. The formula is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and specifically designed not to clog pores. In fact, Niacinamide may help minimize the appearance of enlarged pores with consistent use. If you have acne-prone skin, this serum is considered a safe and beneficial addition to your routine.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. However, because the serum contains L-Ascorbic Acid (pure Vitamin C), which is inherently unstable and oxidizes over time, we recommend using the product within 3–6 months of opening for maximum potency. You can monitor the serum's freshness by its color: light yellow to amber is normal and effective; dark brown indicates significant oxidation and reduced efficacy. Storing the serum in the refrigerator (not freezer) and keeping it tightly sealed and away from light and air will extend its active life.
Verdict: The Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Super Glow Serum is an impressive, well-formulated brightening serum that punches well above its price point. Its standout strength is the multi-pathway brightening system — combining 10% L-Ascorbic Acid, 2% Kojic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin, Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid, and Glutathione — creating one of the most comprehensive dark spot correction formulas available under $25. Developed specifically for melanin-rich and diverse skin tones, it fills a genuine gap in the market with clean, inclusive formulation. Minor drawbacks include the small bottle size, lack of fungal acne safety, and the need to avoid during pregnancy due to Retinyl Palmitate. For anyone with dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or dull skin — especially those with darker complexions — this serum is a standout value worth trying.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 8 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 9 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 4 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 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|