ExfoliKate® Intensive Pore Exfoliating Treatment
ExfoliKate® Intensive Pore Exfoliating Treatment
Product Description
Product overview
Kate Somerville's #1 best-selling facial treatment — a clinic-inspired triple-action exfoliator that combines AHA, BHA, enzymatic, and physical exfoliation in one 2-minute treatment to visibly smooth texture, minimize pores, and reveal a radiant, glowing complexion. Allure Best of Beauty Award winner loved by estheticians and celebrities alike.
Triple-Action Exfoliation
Combines physical (silica), chemical (lactic acid + salicylic acid), and enzymatic (papaya, pineapple, pumpkin enzymes) exfoliation in a single 2-minute treatment — no other step needed.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Action Exfoliation
Combines physical (silica), chemical (lactic acid + salicylic acid), and enzymatic (papaya, pineapple, pumpkin enzymes) exfoliation in a single 2-minute treatment — no other step needed.
Clinically Proven Results
Independent clinical study: 97% showed highly significant improvement in pore appearance after just one use. 100% saw improvement in skin texture and fine lines after 4 weeks.
Soothing Skin Conditioners
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, honey (Mel), and vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) work alongside the exfoliants to calm, smooth, and soften skin so it never feels stripped or raw.
Preps Skin for Better Absorption
By removing the layer of dead cells, ExfoliKate dramatically improves the penetration of serums and moisturizers applied after treatment, amplifying your entire routine.
Hollywood's "Two-Minute Facial"
Cult favorite used by Kate Somerville's celebrity clients for over 18 years. Available in three sizes from trial to full size to accommodate all routines and budgets.
Fermented Pumpkin Extract
Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract offers pre-biotic-like activity that supports skin renewal while naturally delivering enzymes and peptides for enhanced brightening.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Retinyl Palmitate (a retinoid). Both are advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN before use and consider pregnancy-safe alternatives.
Contains Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, and Glycine Soja Oil — all ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil rates 2/5 comedogenically. Cetearyl Alcohol also rates 2. Most other key ingredients are non-comedogenic. Overall risk is low for most skin types, but those extremely prone to clogged pores should patch-test.
Formula includes Cinnamal, Eugenol, Limonene, Linalool — listed EU fragrance allergens derived from the essential oils (bergamot, lavender, patchouli, rose geranium). Those with fragrance sensitivity should patch test first.
Denatured alcohol is present, which may cause dryness or irritation for those with compromised barriers or very sensitive skin. Not recommended for use more than twice weekly.
Kate Somerville does not test finished products or ingredients on animals. No animal testing by suppliers or third parties. Products not sold where animal testing is required by law.
Formulated without sulfates (SLS/SLES), parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, mineral oil, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclosan, and triclocarban.
Mild tingling and temporary flushing is expected due to the AHA/BHA actives. For sensitive skin, limit contact time to under 1 minute and use once per week. Discontinue if persistent burning or irritation occurs.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSLactic Acid ~5–10%Proven
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from the fermentation of lactose. One of the gentlest AHAs, lactic acid chemically exfoliates by breaking down the bonds between dead surface skin cells, improving texture, tone, and luminosity. Also helps stimulate ceramide production for a stronger skin barrier.
- Mechanism: Dissolves desmosomes (intercellular bonds) to release dead corneocytes from the skin surface.
- Clinical benefit: Shown to reduce fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and rough texture with regular use.
- pH dependency: Most effective at a pH of 3–4; effective concentration in this formula estimated at 5–10%.
Salicylic Acid 0.5–2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, blackheads, and comedones. Also possesses anti-inflammatory properties due to its structural similarity to aspirin. FDA-recognized OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2%.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble — penetrates through sebum into the pore lining to exfoliate from within.
- Benefit: Reduces blackheads, minimizes pore appearance, controls excess oil, and calms inflammation.
- Concentration: Listed at position 14 in INCI — estimated at 0.5–1.5% in this formula.
Silica ~3–5%Proven
A naturally occurring mineral that acts as a gentle physical exfoliant in this formula. Unlike polyethylene microbeads (now banned in many countries), silica is a safe, environmentally-friendly mechanical exfoliant that buffs away dead skin cells loosened by the chemical and enzymatic actives.
- Function: Spherical silica particles physically scrub the skin surface, complementing the chemical exfoliation.
- Safety: Non-toxic, non-comedogenic, and biodegradable. Rated 0 on comedogenic scale.
Bromelain (Pineapple Enzyme) & Papain (Papaya Enzyme) trace–1%Proven
Proteolytic enzymes sourced from pineapple (Bromelain) and papaya (Papain/Carica Papaya Fruit). These enzymes selectively digest and dissolve the keratin proteins that hold dead skin cells together, providing enzymatic exfoliation that is gentler than acids and ideal for brightening dull complexions without irritation.
- Mechanism: Protease enzymes cleave peptide bonds in keratin proteins, dissolving the dead cell layer naturally.
- Benefit: Brightens complexion, improves radiance, and enhances the effect of the AHA/BHA actives.
- Synergy: Activated by warmth — using in the shower with steam enhances enzyme activity per Kate Somerville's tip.
Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract tracePromising
A fermented pumpkin extract produced via Lactobacillus fermentation. The fermentation process breaks down pumpkin into bioavailable nutrients including vitamins A, C, E, and zinc, as well as naturally occurring enzymes and peptides that support skin renewal and brightening.
- Benefit: Delivers antioxidant vitamins and renewal-supporting enzymes in a bioavailable fermented form.
- Note: Ferment extracts are typically used at low concentrations for their functional benefits.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder trace–1%Proven
Powdered form of aloe vera juice, a time-tested soothing ingredient. Rich in polysaccharides, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, aloe vera calms redness and irritation caused by the exfoliating actives, helping the skin feel comfortable immediately after treatment.
- Key action: Anti-inflammatory polysaccharides (acemannan) soothe post-exfoliation irritation.
- Bonus: Provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores.
Mel (Honey) traceProven
Natural honey is a humectant, emollient, and natural antimicrobial. It draws moisture to the skin, helps smooth texture, and offers gentle antibacterial activity. In this formula it works alongside aloe and vitamin E to prevent over-drying from the exfoliating actives.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin's upper layers.
- Antimicrobial: Contains hydrogen peroxide and defensin-1, offering mild antibacterial properties helpful for acne-prone skin.
Retinyl Palmitate traceProven
The ester form of vitamin A (a retinoid), retinyl palmitate is the mildest retinoid used in cosmetics. It is converted in skin to retinol and then retinoic acid, supporting cell turnover, collagen synthesis, and reduction of fine lines over time. At the concentration used here it provides anti-aging support without the irritation associated with prescription retinoids.
- Function: Converted to retinol → retinaldehyde → retinoic acid in skin, activating RAR receptors for anti-aging benefits.
- Safety note: Retinyl palmitate is the least potent retinoid but is still a retinoid — avoid during pregnancy.
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil (Bergamot) traceProven
Cold-pressed bergamot essential oil contributes the characteristic citrusy-herbal scent of ExfoliKate and provides antioxidant benefits. It also contains limonene (listed separately in the INCI), which is a naturally occurring fragrance allergen in the EU. The oil itself has known photosensitizing properties if used in UV-exposed leave-on products, but since ExfoliKate is a rinse-off treatment, risk is minimal.
- Antioxidant compounds: Linalool, limonene, bergapten — neutralize free radicals.
- Caution: Bergapten (in non-FCF bergamot) can cause photosensitivity in leave-on applications; rinse-off use reduces this risk.
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) traceProven
The stable ester form of vitamin E, a powerful fat-soluble antioxidant. Tocopheryl acetate protects skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, supports skin barrier repair, and provides emollient conditioning to keep skin soft and smooth after exfoliation.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) that cause premature aging.
- Emollient: Helps restore lipid barrier after exfoliation, preventing moisture loss.
38 ingredients
Water, Lactic Acid, Silica, Glycine Soja Oil, Pectin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carica Papaya Fruit, Ceteareth-20, Cetyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Salicylic Acid, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Alcohol Denat., Sorbic Acid, Cinnamal, Mel, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Eugenol, Potassium Sorbate, Limonene, Linalool, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Beta-Carotene, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Bromelain, Papain, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil, Acetic Acid, Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Aniba Rosaeodora Wood Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, CI 75810
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 1–2 times per week only (AM or PM). Apply to clean, wet skin. Do not combine with other exfoliants on the same day. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser on a wet face. Pat skin slightly — leaving it damp is ideal as the moisture helps activate the enzymatic exfoliants in the formula.
Apply a Thin, Even Layer
Dispense a pea-sized to dime-sized amount and apply a thin, even layer across the face (avoid the eye area and lips). Massage in gentle circular motions for approximately 30 seconds to activate the physical exfoliant (silica).
Leave On for Up to 2 Minutes
Allow the mask to work for up to 2 minutes. You may feel mild tingling — this is normal and indicates the AHA/BHA actives are working. For sensitive skin, start with 60 seconds and build up tolerance over time.
Rinse Thoroughly & Pat Dry
Rinse completely with lukewarm water (avoid hot water, which can increase irritation). Gently pat dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Skin should feel immediately smoother and look more radiant.
Continue Your Routine
Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer. Your skin will absorb subsequent products more effectively after exfoliation. If using in the AM, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher — AHAs and BHAs increase UV sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin with visible pores
- You want spa-quality exfoliation at home in 2 minutes
- You struggle with blackheads, dullness, or uneven texture
- You want a treatment that delivers immediate, visible results
- You have acne-prone skin (without active fungal acne)
- You want to improve absorption of your other skincare products
- You are looking for an anti-aging exfoliant for fine lines and crow's feet
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid + retinyl palmitate)
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have extremely sensitive, eczema-prone, or rosacea skin
- You have a broken or compromised skin barrier (active breakouts, wounds)
- You are allergic to fragrance allergens (cinnamal, eugenol, limonene, linalool)
- You are looking for a daily exfoliant — this is a weekly treatment only
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSalicylic acid penetrates oily pores to clear blackheads and reduce shine. The triple-action formula significantly minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores common in oily skin types.
Works beautifully across different zones — BHA targets the oily T-zone while aloe, honey, and vitamin E soothe drier cheek areas. A versatile choice for combination skin.
Ideal weekly treatment for maintaining smoothness, radiance, and preventing pore buildup. Normal skin tolerates the formula well and sees consistent, glowing results.
Lactic acid and soothing ingredients help dry skin, but the alcohol denat. may feel drying. Keep treatment time to 1 minute and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Use once per week maximum.
Use with caution — the combination of AHA, BHA, fragrance, and alcohol can provoke irritation. Kate recommends mixing with the Goat Milk Cleanser to dilute potency. Always patch test and start at 60 seconds or less.
Salicylic acid clears clogged pores and reduces blackheads. Honey offers mild antimicrobial benefits. Highly effective for comedonal acne and blackheads — but not for fungal acne.
Results timeline
AFTER 4 WEEKSImmediate Smoothness & Glow
Most users notice an immediate improvement in skin texture — skin feels silky smooth to the touch and looks more luminous and radiant directly after rinsing. Pores appear visibly tighter.
94% noticed improvement in texturePore Refinement & Clarity
After 2–4 uses, blackheads begin to diminish and pore congestion visibly reduces. Skin tone becomes more even and dull, flaky patches clear up. Makeup applies more smoothly.
97% showed significant pore improvementTexture Transformation & Brightening
Continued use delivers noticeable improvements in overall skin texture, tone uniformity, and brightness. Rough, bumpy skin becomes consistently smooth. Fine lines around the eye area begin to soften.
100% showed improvement in skin textureAnti-Aging & Full Transformation
In the independent clinical study, 100% of participants saw highly significant improvement in the appearance of crow's feet, fine lines, and wrinkles. Skin appears younger, smoother, and more refined overall.
100% crow's feet improvement (clinical study)Ratings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instant, visible smoothing results after just one use
- Clinically proven efficacy backed by independent study
- Unique triple-action (physical + chemical + enzymatic) approach
- Pores visibly minimized after just 2 minutes
- Improves absorption of subsequent skincare products
- Allure Best of Beauty Award winner — widely recognized by experts
- Cult favorite with 18+ years of loyal customers
- Available in three sizes (trial, regular, and value)
- Cruelty-free formula, free from major harmful chemicals
Criticized
- High price point ($85 for 2 oz / $42.50 per oz)
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not safe for fungal acne (Malassezia) sufferers
- Contains multiple fragrance allergens (cinnamal, eugenol, limonene, linalool)
- Contains Alcohol Denat. — potentially drying for dry/sensitive skin
- Limited to 1–2x weekly use — not suitable as a daily exfoliant
- Strong herbal/citrus scent can be off-putting for some users
- Some users experience tingling, flushing, or temporary redness
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains glycolic acid, salicylic acid (from willow bark), and fruit enzymes — a similar multi-acid + enzymatic approach. Vegan and cruelty-free. Without the same lactic acid concentration or retinyl palmitate anti-aging component. Available via Beauty Pie membership, reducing cost significantly.
Shares the pumpkin enzyme approach with 10% glycolic acid and aluminum oxide crystals for physical exfoliation. Excellent pore-clearing and brightening results. More affordable than ExfoliKate but without lactic acid or the specific silica physical exfoliation. One of the most recommended alternatives by estheticians.
Delivers high-concentration chemical exfoliation (glycolic, lactic, tartaric, citric acids + salicylic acid). Extremely affordable but much more potent — requires 10 minutes, not 2, and carries higher risk of irritation. No physical or enzymatic exfoliation. Not suitable for beginners or sensitive skin. For experienced acid users only.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEKate Somerville ExfoliKate®
Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother™ Microdermabrasion Scrub
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if color, texture, or scent changes significantly, or if the formula separates.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in hot, steamy bathrooms — keep capped tightly. Refrigeration is not required but can extend freshness of the enzymatic actives.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap (travel size 0.5 oz); screw-cap jar (2 oz and 5 oz). The jar packaging exposes product to air with each use — use a clean spatula to avoid contamination and bacterial growth.
Yes — the 0.5 oz (15 mL) travel size is well under the 100 mL TSA liquid limit, making it ideal for carry-on travel. Perfect for maintaining your routine away from home.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo — ExfoliKate is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula contains two ingredients that are advised against during pregnancy: Salicylic Acid (a BHA that can be absorbed through the skin in high concentrations) and Retinyl Palmitate (a vitamin A derivative / retinoid). While the concentrations in this rinse-off formula are relatively low, most dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend avoiding retinoids and high-concentration salicylic acid altogether during pregnancy as a precaution. Please consult your healthcare provider before use, and consider a pregnancy-safe enzyme-only or physical exfoliant alternative.
No — ExfoliKate is not safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains several ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast, including: Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, and Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil. If you suspect fungal acne, look for a dedicated fungal acne-safe exfoliant with a simpler ingredient list — ideally one containing only salicylic acid or glycolic acid without ferment extracts, fatty alcohols, or oils that can feed Malassezia.
Since ExfoliKate already contains AHA (lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid), you should not use it on the same day as other exfoliating acids — this risks over-exfoliation, irritation, and barrier damage. On non-ExfoliKate days, you can use your regular retinol, vitamin C, or AHA/BHA products. Do not layer another retinol product on top of ExfoliKate on treatment days, as it already contains retinyl palmitate. Vitamin C serums can be used after ExfoliKate on treatment days (once skin has been rinsed) as the freshly exfoliated surface enhances vitamin C penetration. Build up tolerance slowly and listen to your skin.
ExfoliKate is best suited for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types. Those with oily or combination skin see the most dramatic pore-clearing and shine-control results from the salicylic acid. Normal skin sees excellent texture refinement and radiance. Dry skin can benefit but should limit application to 60 seconds and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin should approach with caution — start with a shorter application time and consider mixing a small amount with the Kate Somerville Goat Milk Cleanser to dilute potency. Those with rosacea, eczema, or active skin conditions should avoid this product or consult a dermatologist.
Results are impressively fast with ExfoliKate. Most users notice immediately smoother skin after the very first use — the independent clinical study showed 94% saw highly significant improvement in skin texture after just one application. Pore refinement becomes more noticeable after 2–4 uses (1–2 weeks). After 4 weeks of consistent twice-weekly use, 100% of clinical study participants saw improvement in the appearance of crow's feet, fine lines, and wrinkles. For best results, use twice per week and follow with a full skincare routine including moisturizer and SPF.
ExfoliKate replaces your regular cleanser step as a second cleanse / treatment step. Use it on clean, wet skin — after your initial face wash. Apply, massage for 30 seconds, leave on for up to 2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. After rinsing, continue your routine: toner → serum → moisturizer → SPF (if AM). It can be used morning or night, but if used in the morning, sunscreen is absolutely essential as AHAs and BHAs increase UV photosensitivity. Use it 1–2 times per week — not daily. Do not combine with other exfoliants on the same day.
ExfoliKate has a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5. The formula does contain Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil (rated 2) and Cetearyl Alcohol (rated 2), but these are present in relatively small amounts and the formula is a rinse-off treatment — meaning most residue is washed away before it can settle into pores. Crucially, the salicylic acid in ExfoliKate is itself a pore-clearing agent, which actively works against comedone formation. The product is not marketed as comedogenic, and the vast majority of users — including those with oily and acne-prone skin — do not report pore-clogging issues. Patch test if you have extremely comedone-prone skin.
ExfoliKate has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Since it is used only 1–2 times per week and you need only a small pea-to-dime-sized amount per application, a 2 oz jar should last approximately 6–9 months with regular use — well within the PAO window. The 5 oz size is a good value for consistent users. Store in a cool, dry place; if using the jar packaging, always use a clean spatula to prevent contamination. Discard if you notice any significant change in color, texture, or odor before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: Kate Somerville's ExfoliKate® Intensive Pore Exfoliating Treatment is one of the most effective at-home exfoliating treatments available, earning its legendary cult status through genuinely impressive, clinically-backed results. The unique triple-action formula — combining physical (silica), chemical (lactic acid + salicylic acid), and enzymatic (papaya, pineapple, pumpkin) exfoliation — delivers an unmatched breadth of exfoliating action in just 2 minutes. It deserves its Allure Best of Beauty Award and its reputation as "Hollywood's Two-Minute Facial." The primary caveats are the premium price, the presence of fragrance allergens and alcohol that limit suitability for very sensitive skin, and its contraindication during pregnancy and for fungal acne sufferers. For oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin seeking visibly smoother texture, refined pores, and a radiant glow — this is a standout performer that justifies every penny.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 0 |
Glycine Soja Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
Pectin
Emulsion Stabilising
|
|