Face Gel Spot Treatment with Benzoyl Peroxide
Face Gel Spot Treatment with Benzoyl Peroxide
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically proven, leave-on medicinal treatment gel for mild facial acne. Powered by 5% Benzoyl Peroxide with AC Microsphere Technology that simultaneously kills up to 95% of spot-causing bacteria in just one week, absorbs excess oil, and releases glycerine to hydrate and soothe — delivering real, fast results for acne-prone skin aged 12 and over.
Kills 95% of Acne Bacteria
The 5% Benzoyl Peroxide active works by releasing free oxygen radicals that destroy Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) — the main bacteria responsible for inflammatory spots, pimples, and pustules — in as little as one week.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills 95% of Acne Bacteria
The 5% Benzoyl Peroxide active works by releasing free oxygen radicals that destroy Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) — the main bacteria responsible for inflammatory spots, pimples, and pustules — in as little as one week.
AC Microsphere Technology
Proprietary microsphere delivery system acts as an intelligent sponge: it absorbs excess sebum from the skin surface while simultaneously releasing glycerine to hydrate and soothe, balancing treatment with comfort.
No Antibiotic Resistance
Unlike antibiotic spot treatments, benzoyl peroxide works by an oxidative mechanism — bacteria cannot develop resistance to it. This makes Acnecide as effective on first use as after months of continuous use.
Targets Blackheads & Whiteheads
With mild keratolytic (exfoliating) action, this gel helps to loosen and remove the plugs that form comedones, reducing both open blackheads and closed whiteheads for clearer pores over time.
Hydrating Formula
Glycerol (glycerin) in the formula helps counteract the typical drying side effects of benzoyl peroxide, keeping skin balanced, comfortable, and less prone to compensatory excess oil production.
Dermatologically Tested
Developed by Galderma — a global dermatology specialist — and clinically validated. This is a regulated medicinal product, held to higher standards of safety and efficacy than standard cosmetic acne creams.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEBenzoyl peroxide has limited systemic absorption (~5%) but the product itself advises consulting a doctor or pharmacist before use if pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Some guidelines classify topical BPO as low-risk in pregnancy, but always confirm with your healthcare provider first.
The formula contains no ferments, fatty acids C11–C24, esters, or polysorbates that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Benzoyl peroxide actually has some antifungal activity. This product is considered safe for fungal acne.
Entirely gel-based with no oils or waxes that could block pores. Propylene glycol (rating 0) and glycerol (rating 0) are both non-comedogenic humectants. This product will not clog pores.
Benzoyl peroxide is a strong oxidising agent that will bleach hair and coloured fabrics including clothing, towels, and pillowcases. Use white or old towels and pillowcases while using this product. Wash hands thoroughly after applying.
Benzoyl peroxide increases skin sensitivity to UV radiation. Avoid prolonged sun exposure while using this product. If sun exposure cannot be avoided, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and apply the gel in the evening.
Do not combine with retinol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or other exfoliating actives simultaneously. Benzoyl peroxide already has exfoliant activity, and stacking actives significantly increases irritation risk. Use at different times or alternate days.
New users should always patch test. Start by applying once every other evening for the first few days, building up to once daily, then twice daily only if well tolerated. Initial mild stinging, redness, or peeling is common as skin acclimates.
Contains no added fragrance, essential oils, or ethanol — common irritants that can exacerbate acne-prone and sensitive skin. The simplified formula focuses purely on active efficacy and skin tolerance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide (as Hydrous Benzoyl Peroxide) 5% w/wGold Standard
The single most evidence-backed topical acne treatment available without a prescription. Benzoyl peroxide works via a dual mechanism: it releases reactive oxygen species that are lethal to anaerobic Cutibacterium acnes bacteria, and provides a mild keratolytic effect that helps clear blocked follicles. Crucially, bacteria cannot develop resistance to it — unlike antibiotics — making it as effective long-term as on day one.
- Mechanism: Releases free radicals that oxidise bacterial cell membranes, killing C. acnes within minutes of application
- Efficacy: Kills up to 95% of spot-causing bacteria in 1 week at 5% concentration
- Keratolytic: Gently exfoliates the stratum corneum, helping to unblock pores and reduce comedone formation
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammatory cytokines associated with papules and pustules
- Resistance-free: No documented cases of bacterial resistance — a significant advantage over topical antibiotics
- Systemic absorption: Approximately 5% is absorbed through intact skin; largely metabolised to benzoic acid
Glycerol (Glycerin) FunctionalProven
A powerful humectant that draws water from the dermis and environment into the outer skin layers. Included specifically to counteract the drying side effects of benzoyl peroxide, helping to maintain the skin's moisture barrier and reduce flaking. Works in synergy with the microsphere delivery system: the microspheres both absorb excess oil and release glycerol in a controlled manner for sustained comfort.
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — completely non-pore-clogging
- Fungal acne safe: Yes — glycerol is not a substrate for Malassezia
- Skin barrier: Strengthens intercellular lipid structure and reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)
Carbomer 940 Gelling AgentFunctional
A cross-linked polyacrylic acid polymer that transforms the liquid formula into a smooth, clear gel with excellent spreadability and skin feel. Neutralised by sodium hydroxide in the formulation to create the characteristic gel matrix. Carbomers are considered non-comedogenic and are widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic gel formulations.
- Function: Thickener, gelling agent, and stabiliser for the BPO active ingredient
- Safety: Well-established pharmaceutical excipient with a long safety record in topical dermatological preparations
Propylene Glycol Solvent / HumectantFunctional
A small molecule solvent and humectant that enhances the penetration of benzoyl peroxide into the follicle and provides mild additional hydration. Helps stabilise the formulation and maintain an even distribution of the active ingredient throughout the gel. Propylene glycol has a comedogenic rating of 0 and is considered safe for acne-prone skin in typical concentrations.
- Comedogenic rating: 0
- Penetration enhancer: Improves transdermal delivery of BPO into the pilosebaceous unit where C. acnes bacteria reside
Acrylates Copolymer Film-FormerFunctional
A synthetic polymer used as a film-forming agent and secondary stabiliser in the gel matrix. Contributes to the smooth, non-tacky finish of the product after application and helps the formula remain evenly distributed on skin. Works with Carbomer 940 to create the gel's characteristic lightweight, fast-setting texture.
- Texture role: Imparts a smooth, non-greasy, non-tacky afterfeel to the gel
- Stability: Helps maintain emulsion and active ingredient stability across a range of temperatures
Docusate Sodium SurfactantFunctional
A mild anionic surfactant and wetting agent used in pharmaceutical formulations to improve the dispersion of the hydrous benzoyl peroxide throughout the gel matrix. Ensures homogenous distribution of the active ingredient for consistent dosing with each application. Used in tiny amounts solely for formulation stability.
- Function: Pharmaceutical dispersing agent and wetting agent for BPO particles
Disodium Edetate (EDTA) Chelating AgentFunctional
A chelating agent that neutralises trace metal ions (typically from water) that would otherwise oxidise and destabilise the benzoyl peroxide active ingredient. Used in tiny amounts (typically ~0.1%) to extend the product's shelf life and maintain potency of the BPO throughout the tube's period of use.
- Function: Preservative potentiator and BPO stabiliser — prevents metal-catalysed degradation
11 ingredients
Hydrous Benzoyl Peroxide (equivalent to Benzoyl Peroxide 5% w/w), Docusate Sodium, Disodium Edetate, Poloxamer 182, Carbomer 940, Propylene Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerol, Colloidal Anhydrous Silica, Sodium Hydroxide, Purified Water.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, dry skin before moisturiser. Use sunscreen every morning — benzoyl peroxide increases UV sensitivity. Do not layer with retinol, AHAs, or BHAs in the same routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash the affected area with a mild, non-stripping cleanser and lukewarm water. Gently pat skin completely dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Applying to damp skin can intensify irritation.
Start Slow (First 2 Weeks)
New users: apply a thin layer to affected areas once daily, in the evening only, on alternate days for the first 2–3 days. This allows your skin to build tolerance. Never start with twice-daily use.
Apply a Thin Layer
Squeeze a pea-sized amount and spread a thin, even layer over all affected areas of the face — not just individual spots. Avoid the eyes, corners of the nose, mouth, and neck. Wash hands thoroughly immediately after.
Step Up Gradually
If no significant irritation occurs after 2–3 days, increase to once daily every day. After a further week of good tolerance, you may apply twice daily (morning and evening) if desired and recommended by your pharmacist.
Follow with Moisturiser + SPF
Always follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to offset any dryness. In the morning, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step — benzoyl peroxide makes skin more sensitive to sun damage.
Protect Your Fabrics
Allow the gel to dry completely before contact with pillowcases, towels, or clothing. Benzoyl peroxide will bleach coloured fabrics on contact. Use old or white pillowcases and towels during the course of treatment.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne — papules, pustules, and active spots
- You have blackheads or whiteheads (comedonal acne) on the face
- Previous antibiotic treatments have stopped working or caused resistance
- You want a fast-acting, clinically proven OTC option without a prescription
- Your skin is oily or combination and you want a matte-finish treatment
- You are aged 12 or over and want a pharmaceutical-grade gel
- You prefer a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe cystic or nodular acne — see a dermatologist for prescription treatment
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — consult your doctor before use
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin — BPO may be too drying even with moisturiser
- You have a known allergy to benzoyl peroxide or any listed excipients
- You have acne on your back or chest (the Face Gel is formulated for facial use only)
- You are already using prescription retinoids — combining is not recommended without medical guidance
- You have sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin — the irritation risk is high
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe AC Microsphere Technology actively absorbs excess sebum while the matte gel finish adds no shine whatsoever. BPO's sebostatic properties help regulate oil production over time — ideal for oily, breakout-prone skin.
Works well for combination types: targets oily, acne-prone zones (T-zone, chin) while the glycerol content helps prevent excessive drying of drier areas. Start slowly and moisturise the drier zones well.
This is the primary target skin type. Clinically proven to reduce the bacteria load on acne-prone skin, prevent new breakouts, and clear existing spots. No antibiotic resistance means continued efficacy with long-term use.
Suitable for occasional spot treatment on normal skin experiencing breakouts. Use sparingly on spot areas only and follow with a good moisturiser to prevent over-drying of surrounding clear skin.
Can be used with caution. Start on alternate evenings only and always follow with a rich, non-comedogenic moisturiser. Dry skin is much more prone to peeling and irritation from BPO. A 2.5% BPO version may be better tolerated.
5% BPO can be too potent for reactive or sensitive skin types. Always patch test first and introduce extremely gradually. Consider starting with the 2.5% strength Acnecide variant. Avoid if you have rosacea or eczema.
Results timeline
WEEKS 5–12Initial Adjustment Period
Some users experience mild stinging, tightness, and slight redness during the first few applications — this is normal as skin adjusts to the active ingredient. You may notice a tingling sensation. Do not increase frequency during this phase. Keep skin well moisturised.
Very common — follow the graduated introductionVisible Reduction in Bacteria & New Spots
Clinically, benzoyl peroxide at 5% can reduce C. acnes populations by up to 95% within the first week of regular use. Many users notice existing spots becoming less inflamed and red, and fewer new breakouts forming. Skin may peel slightly — this is keratolytic action at work.
~70% notice reduced new spots in Week 1Active Spots Clearing, Pores Less Congested
By weeks 2–4, most users report a clear reduction in the number and severity of spots. Blackheads and whiteheads begin to loosen and clear. Skin feels less oily throughout the day. Some initial dryness or flaking subsides as skin acclimates — continue with moisturiser routine.
~80% see meaningful improvement by Week 4Sustained Clearance & Prevention
With consistent twice-daily use, the majority of users achieve significantly clearer skin by the 12-week mark. Ongoing use prevents recurrence by maintaining low bacteria levels and keeping pores clear. If no improvement is seen by week 12, consult a pharmacist or doctor for alternative treatment options.
~85% achieve noticeable clearance by 12 weeksRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven active at the optimum 5% concentration
- Works in as little as 1 week for many users
- No risk of antibiotic resistance — effective long-term
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, minimal formulation
- Fungal acne safe — suitable for fungal and bacterial acne
- Non-comedogenic (rating 0/5) — won't clog pores
- AC Microsphere Technology hydrates while treating
- Dermatologically tested pharmaceutical-grade product
- Widely available at Boots, Superdrug, Amazon UK
- Affordable compared to prescription alternatives
Criticized
- Bleaches hair, towels, pillowcases, and coloured clothing
- Initial irritation, peeling, and redness very common
- Increases photosensitivity — mandatory SPF use required
- Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding without medical advice
- Not compatible with retinol, AHAs, BHAs in same routine
- Small 15g tube runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- 5% strength can be too strong for dry or sensitive skin
- For facial use only — different product needed for back/chest
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Boots own-brand 5% BPO gel with a very similar formulation and mechanism. The main difference is the absence of Acnecide's AC Microsphere Technology, making it slightly more drying. Equally effective at killing acne bacteria, but slightly less comfortable for sensitive skin. Great value alternative available without prescription.
Different active (azelaic acid vs BPO) but targets acne via a different mechanism — inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and has anti-inflammatory, anti-comedogenic, and skin-evening properties. Gentler, safe in pregnancy (low doses), no bleaching risk. Does not kill bacteria as rapidly as BPO but better tolerated by sensitive skin with less irritation potential.
A retinoid-based OTC acne treatment (adapalene) that works by normalising skin cell turnover and preventing comedone formation rather than killing bacteria. More effective for blackheads and whiteheads; less rapid for inflamed spots. No bleaching risk. Cannot be combined with Acnecide — use one or the other. Prescription-strength results at OTC accessibility.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAcnecide Face Gel 5% BPO
Paula's Choice Clear Regular Strength 2.5% BPO
![Effaclar Duo [+] SPF 30](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0907/5028/8215/files/pg5xsf6ex00znkgwq00ls4pgcrl7.jpg?v=1774942416)
Clearasil Ultra Rapid Action 10% BPO Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if you notice any changes in colour, texture, or smell, or if the product appears separated or less effective.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze — freezing destabilises the benzoyl peroxide and gel matrix. Keep out of reach of children.
Collapsible aluminium or plastic tube (15g or 30g). The tube format helps protect the benzoyl peroxide active from oxidation and light degradation. Squeeze from the bottom upwards for most efficient use.
Yes — the 15g tube is well under the 100ml cabin baggage liquid limit and is TSA/airport security compliant. Place in a sealed clear bag to protect other items from potential bleaching contact.
Frequently asked questions
FAQAcnecide Face Gel is not automatically contraindicated in pregnancy, but the product instructions specifically advise that if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or are breastfeeding, you must consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product. Benzoyl peroxide has approximately 5% systemic absorption through intact skin and is largely converted to benzoic acid. Some dermatologists consider low-strength topical BPO as relatively low risk when other treatments have failed, but this is a clinical decision. Do not use without medical guidance during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes — Acnecide Face Gel is considered safe for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis / malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains none of the ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast: no fermented ingredients, no fatty acids in the C11–C24 chain range, no esters, and no polysorbates. Furthermore, benzoyl peroxide has documented antifungal properties alongside its antibacterial activity, making this product potentially beneficial for those dealing with both fungal and bacterial acne simultaneously.
Not in the same routine step. Acnecide's product leaflet explicitly advises against using retinol, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or physical exfoliants at the same time as Acnecide treatments, as benzoyl peroxide already exerts a keratolytic/exfoliant action. Combining these significantly raises the risk of over-exfoliation, severe irritation, and barrier damage. If you wish to use a retinoid or acid in your routine, use it on alternate evenings or at a different time of day, and consult your pharmacist for guidance. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) may also be oxidised and inactivated by BPO — apply them at different times if you choose to use both.
Acnecide Face Gel is best suited to oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its gel formulation adds no greasiness, and the AC Microsphere Technology actively absorbs excess sebum throughout the day. It can be used with care on normal skin for spot treatment. It is less suitable for dry skin or sensitive skin types due to the high drying and irritation potential of 5% benzoyl peroxide — those with drier or more reactive skin may want to consider the 2.5% Acnecide variant, or consider alternative actives such as azelaic acid. It is not recommended for rosacea-prone skin.
Clinical data and user reports show that benzoyl peroxide at 5% can kill up to 95% of spot-causing bacteria within the first week of regular use. Many users notice existing spots becoming less inflamed and fewer new spots forming within 7–14 days. More significant clearing of established acne — including blackheads, whiteheads, and reducing post-acne redness — typically takes 4–8 weeks of consistent use. If you see no improvement after 12 weeks of use as directed, the leaflet and UK guidelines recommend consulting your pharmacist or doctor for further advice, as some forms of acne may require prescription treatment.
Apply Acnecide Face Gel as the treatment step, after cleansing and any toner, and before your moisturiser. Apply to clean, completely dry skin — wet skin significantly increases irritation risk. The full recommended order is: (1) Gentle cleanser, (2) Toner if used, (3) Acnecide Face Gel — thin layer to all affected areas, (4) Let absorb fully before applying (5) Non-comedogenic moisturiser, and (6) Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning. Do not apply other actives (retinol, acids) in the same routine session.
No. Acnecide Face Gel has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5 — it will not clog pores. The formula is entirely gel-based, containing no oils, waxes, or emollients that contribute to comedone formation. The key functional ingredients — propylene glycol (0/5), glycerol/glycerin (0/5), and carbomer (0/5) — are all rated non-comedogenic. In fact, benzoyl peroxide itself has anti-comedogenic properties, helping to clear blocked follicles. This product is dermatologically tested and clinically suitable for acne-prone, pore-clogging-sensitive skin.
Acnecide Face Gel has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After this point, the benzoyl peroxide active may begin to degrade and become less effective. The product should be stored below 25°C and must not be frozen. The 15g tube used once daily across the face will typically last approximately 4–6 weeks; the 30g tube lasts proportionally longer. Always check the batch number and expiry date printed on the packaging. If the product changes colour, texture, or smell, or the gel appears separated, do not use it.
Verdict: Acnecide Face Gel Spot Treatment with 5% Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the most effective, affordable, and scientifically validated OTC acne treatments available in the UK. Developed by Galderma — a global dermatology company — and held to pharmaceutical standards, it delivers the clinically optimal 5% BPO concentration alongside the comfort-enhancing AC Microsphere Technology, which sets it apart from cheaper generic BPO gels. It kills up to 95% of acne bacteria in one week without any risk of antibiotic resistance, making it suitable for long-term maintenance as well as acute breakouts. The fragrance-free, alcohol-free, 11-ingredient formula is non-comedogenic (0/5) and fungal acne safe. The main limitations are the bleaching risk to fabrics, the potential for initial irritation (especially at 5% for sensitive skin), and the caution required during pregnancy. For oily, combination, or consistently acne-prone skin in adults and teenagers aged 12+, this remains a go-to, hard-to-beat option at its accessible price point.
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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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Anisate
Antimicrobial, Flavoring Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Poloxamer 182
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|