Face Prime & Protect SPF 40 Tinted
Face Prime & Protect SPF 40 Tinted
Product Description
Product overview
An award-winning 2-in-1 tinted mineral sunscreen and makeup primer by Cotz Skincare — delivering broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection with a silky, oil-free matte finish. Formulated exclusively with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, it reflects UV rays without a white cast while blurring pores and imperfections for skin that looks flawlessly even, with or without makeup.
Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
Titanium Dioxide 8% + Zinc Oxide 3.8% provide proven UVA and UVB protection using only mineral filters — no chemical sunscreen actives whatsoever.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad-Spectrum SPF 40
Titanium Dioxide 8% + Zinc Oxide 3.8% provide proven UVA and UVB protection using only mineral filters — no chemical sunscreen actives whatsoever.
Iron Oxide Tint — No White Cast
CI 77491 (Iron Oxide) imparts a universal sheer tint that neutralizes the mineral white cast and adds light coverage suitable for a wide range of skin tones.
Pore-Blurring Makeup Primer
The silicone base (Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone) creates a smooth, blurred canvas that helps foundation apply evenly and wear longer.
80-Minute Water Resistance
Clinically tested for water resistance up to 80 minutes — suitable for outdoor activities, workouts, and swimming when reapplied as directed.
Reef-Safe Formula
100% free of Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and all other chemical UV filters — certified reef-friendly and safe for ocean ecosystems.
Oil-Free & Non-Comedogenic
Contains no oils or pore-clogging ingredients. Rated comedogenic 1/5 — suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types without causing breakouts.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains only Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide as active UV filters — both are classified as safe by the FDA and are among the only sunscreen actives recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No chemical sunscreens, no retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone.
The formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. All silicone-based inactives are confirmed fungal-acne safe. Verified by independent skincare databases.
Completely fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, and preservative-free. Mineral filters sit on top of skin without penetrating, making this ideal for reactive and sensitized skin types including rosacea-prone skin.
No known pore-clogging ingredients. Silicone-dominant formula is lightweight and does not trap debris in pores. Safe for acne-prone skin; rated 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale.
As the final AM skincare step, this product layers well over antioxidant serums, retinol (used PM), and Vitamin C. Apply active serums first, allow to absorb, then apply this SPF primer last.
The silicone base can pill when layered directly with water-based or heavy oil-based foundations. Allow a 60-second dry-down before applying makeup. Best paired with silicone-based or powder foundations.
100% free of Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, and all chemical UV actives per reef-safety guidelines. Safe to wear in ocean environments and protected marine areas.
The single universal tint uses Iron Oxide (CI 77491) and is designed for a wide range of skin tones. Very fair or very deep skin tones may find the tint slightly mismatched — a setting powder can help customize the finish.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTitanium Dioxide 8%Proven
The primary active UV filter in this formula. Titanium Dioxide works as a physical/mineral barrier that sits on top of the skin and reflects both UVB rays (causing sunburn) and a portion of UVA rays (causing aging and deeper DNA damage). At 8%, this is a high-concentration, clinically effective level for facial sun protection.
- UV protection: Effective against UVB and partial UVA — photostable and does not degrade in sunlight
- Irritancy: Does not penetrate the skin barrier; among the safest actives for sensitive and compromised skin
- Coating: Alumina-coated nanoparticles make them non-nano in the final product for safer, broader coverage
- Regulatory status: FDA-approved Category I sunscreen active; classified safe in pregnancy
Zinc Oxide 3.8%Proven
The secondary active UV filter and the key to true broad-spectrum protection. Zinc Oxide uniquely covers the full UVA spectrum (UVA1 and UVA2), which Titanium Dioxide alone does not fully address. Together, the two actives provide comprehensive protection from photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and UV-induced skin cancer risk.
- Broad-spectrum: Only mineral filter that covers the full UVA range (320–400 nm) including long-wave UVA1
- Anti-inflammatory: Known to soothe irritated skin — particularly beneficial for rosacea and acne-prone complexions
- Non-comedogenic: Rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale; does not clog pores
- FDA status: Category I safe and effective; recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Dimethicone baseProven
A synthetic silicone polymer that forms the backbone of the formula's elegant texture. Dimethicone creates a breathable, non-occlusive barrier on the skin's surface that temporarily fills in fine lines, blurs pores, and provides a smooth, non-greasy feel. It also helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) for light surface hydration.
- Texture: Creates the signature silky, primer-like feel and smooth matte finish
- Barrier: Reduces TEWL without occluding pores — lighter than traditional occlusive oils
- Compatibility: Photostable and does not interact with mineral UV filters
Cyclohexasiloxane & Cyclopentasiloxane baseProven
Volatile silicones (D6 and D5) that act as fast-evaporating carriers in the formula. They give the product its initial silky, weightless feel during application and help distribute all other ingredients evenly across the skin before evaporating and leaving behind the protective layer. This creates the non-greasy, skin-like finish that sets this product apart from heavier SPF creams.
- Evaporation: Both evaporate from skin after application, contributing to the lightweight, non-tacky finish
- Distribution: Help spread pigment (Iron Oxide) and UV filters evenly for consistent coverage
- Safety: Studies confirm D5 (Cyclopentasiloxane) is safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations
Alumina traceProven
Aluminum oxide used to coat the nano-scale Titanium Dioxide particles. This coating technology is critical — it makes the otherwise nano-sized UV filter particles non-nano in the final product, improving safety and increasing adherence to the skin surface. Alumina also contributes mild mattifying and absorbent properties.
- Function: Coats TiO2 nanoparticles to prevent nano penetration and improve photostability
- Mattifying: Mild absorbent properties help control shine and oil on the skin's surface
- Safety: Naturally occurring mineral (corundum); well-tolerated with no known skin sensitization
CI 77491 (Iron Oxide) traceProven
A cosmetic-grade mineral pigment that provides the sheer tint and eliminates the white cast typical of high-percentage mineral sunscreens. Iron Oxide also offers supplemental protection against visible light (HEV/blue light) and may help reduce hyperpigmentation triggered by visible light exposure — a benefit particularly valued by those with melasma.
- Tint: Provides universal sheer coverage suitable for a wide range of skin tones (fair to medium-deep)
- Visible light: Iron Oxides are proven to filter HEV/blue light, complementing UV protection
- Melasma: Research shows iron oxide in tinted sunscreens reduces melasma recurrence versus untinted SPF
Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone basePromising
A silicone-based emulsifier and dispersing agent that helps blend the hydrophilic and silicone-based components of the formula into a uniform, stable product. It improves the spreadability of the formula and ensures even distribution of the UV-filtering minerals across the skin.
- Function: Emulsifier that stabilizes the silicone-dominant formula for smooth, even coverage
- Texture: Contributes to the creamy, easily-spreadable consistency and helps product glide on without dragging
PEG-10 Dimethicone & Hydrogen Dimethicone baseProven
Additional silicone variants that serve as conditioners and emollients in the formula. PEG-10 Dimethicone acts as an emulsifier with mild humectant properties for hair and skin conditioning, while Hydrogen Dimethicone contributes to a smooth, skin-conditioning finish and helps enhance the overall formula stability.
- PEG-10 Dimethicone: Emulsifier with conditioner properties; works best in neutral-pH formulations
- Hydrogen Dimethicone: Emollient silicone that adds smoothness and reduces tackiness
13 ingredients — Active + Inactive
Active: Titanium Dioxide 8%, Zinc Oxide 3.8%
Inactive: Alumina, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, CI 77491 (Iron Oxide), Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone, Hydrogen Dimethicone, PEG-10 Dimethicone
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step of your AM skincare routine. Shake the tube well before each use. Wait 60 seconds after moisturizer before applying. Layer makeup over the top once fully set.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake the Tube Well
Always shake the tube before dispensing. The mineral pigments and silicone carriers can separate slightly on standing — shaking ensures even color distribution and consistent coverage.
Complete Your Skincare First
Finish your cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. Allow your moisturizer to absorb for at least 60 seconds before applying SPF to prevent pilling.
Apply Two Finger Lengths
Dispense approximately two finger lengths of product — this is the FDA-recommended application amount for adequate SPF coverage on the face and neck. Less product = less protection.
Blend Evenly Over Face & Neck
Use your fingertips or a damp beauty sponge to blend evenly outward from the center of the face. Work quickly before the volatile silicones begin to set. Include the neck and décolletage.
Allow to Set — Then Apply Makeup (Optional)
Wait 60–90 seconds for the formula to fully set and develop its matte finish. Then apply powder, foundation, or other makeup as desired — or wear alone for a natural, polished look.
Reapply Every 2 Hours Outdoors
Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure, and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating. Water resistance is 80 minutes — reapply after towel drying even within that window.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a 2-in-1 SPF and makeup primer to simplify your routine
- You have oily or combination skin and want a mattifying SPF
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe mineral sunscreen
- You have sensitive, rosacea-prone, or reactive skin
- You're dealing with melasma and need iron oxide protection vs. visible light
- You want reef-safe, chemical-sunscreen-free protection
- You want light tinted coverage without a full foundation
- You're active outdoors and need water-resistant SPF
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need rich moisturizing SPF (try CōTZ Face Moisture SPF 35)
- You have very fair or very deep skin tones where the single tint shade may not match
- You layer heavy oil-based or water-based products on top (risk of pilling)
- You need a higher SPF — consider CōTZ Flawless Complexion SPF 50
- You prefer a dewy, glowy finish rather than matte
- You need a fragrance in your SPF (this is completely unscented)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe star match. Oil-free, silicone-dominant formula controls shine throughout the day. Users with oily skin report the matte finish rivals dedicated mattifying primers. Won't add greasiness or clog pores.
Controls the T-zone without over-drying drier areas. The silicone base balances across zones and the non-comedogenic formula keeps pores clear in the oilier regions of the face.
Performs flawlessly on normal skin — provides a polished, healthy-looking finish that works alone or under makeup. Lightweight enough for everyday year-round use.
Fragrance-free, oil-free, and preservative-free formula is gentle on reactive skin. Mineral-only filters don't cause stinging. Long-term users with rosacea report reduced flares. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (rated 1/5), fungal acne safe, and oil-free. Zinc Oxide has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help calm breakouts. No pore-clogging ingredients.
Can feel slightly tight on very dry skin due to the matte, oil-free formula and lack of humectants. Apply a rich moisturizer underneath first. May be better paired with CōTZ Face Moisture SPF 35 for very dry skin types.
Results timeline
6 MONTHS+Smooth Matte Finish & Even Skin Tone
From the very first application, users notice a visible blurring of pores and fine lines, a light-coverage tint that evens out skin tone, and a smooth matte finish that eliminates shine. Makeup applies more evenly over the primed surface.
97% notice on first useMakeup Wear Improved & Routine Simplified
After consistent use, makeup holds for longer and requires less product to achieve even coverage. Many users begin wearing CōTZ alone without foundation, finding the tinted coverage sufficient for everyday looks.
85% simplify routinePhotoaging Prevention & Hyperpigmentation Control
With consistent daily broad-spectrum protection, sun-induced hyperpigmentation (dark spots, melasma) is prevented from worsening. Existing UV damage slows in progression. Skin appears more even-toned over time as damage is no longer accumulated daily.
78% report more even skinVisible Anti-Aging & Long-Term Skin Health
Long-term daily SPF users demonstrate measurable reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity compared to non-users. The iron oxide tint also provides supplemental protection against visible light, reducing melasma recurrence — a benefit scientifically documented in dermatology research.
Dermatologically documentedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Truly matte, non-greasy finish — controls oily skin all day
- No white cast despite high mineral percentage (11.8% total actives)
- Iron oxide tint adds visible light / HEV protection
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe — no chemical filters
- Fungal acne safe formula — all silicone base
- Reef-friendly: free of Oxybenzone and Octinoxate
- Doubles as a pore-blurring makeup primer
- 80-minute water resistance for active lifestyles
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, preservative-free
- Excellent for rosacea and sensitive skin — non-stinging mineral formula
- Award-winning formula trusted since 2002
Criticized
- Small 1.5 oz / 42.5 g size runs out quickly with correct application
- Single tint shade — not ideal for very fair or very deep skin tones
- Can pill when layered with certain foundations or water-based products
- Matte finish may not suit those who prefer dewy or luminous skin
- No humectants — may feel tight on very dry or dehydrated skin
- Can feel slightly thick in hot, humid climates
- Price per ounce is relatively high compared to drugstore alternatives
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical formula — Titanium Dioxide 8% + Zinc Oxide 3.8%, same silicone base, same non-nano technology. Lacks iron oxide tint so white cast is possible on deeper skin tones, but adds antioxidants (Tocopheryl Acetate). Slightly larger at 1.75 oz for a better price-per-ounce ratio.
Uses Zinc Oxide 9.0% as the only mineral active plus Niacinamide and Lactic Acid for added skin benefits. More hydrating formula — better for dry to combination skin. However, it contains chemical-adjacent inactive ingredients and a slightly different finish. Available in more tint shades. Popular dermatologist recommendation.
French pharmacy mineral SPF with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide tinted with iron oxides, available in multiple shades for better skin tone matching. Contains antioxidants and a more moisturizing base. Slightly more dewy finish than CōTZ — better for dry skin, but not as matte for oily skin types. 2 fl oz bottle offers more product.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if color, texture, or consistency changes significantly from original.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Do not leave in a hot car or direct sun — heat can degrade the silicone base and mineral pigment consistency. Shake before each use.
Squeeze tube — practical and hygienic. The tube format minimizes air exposure and contamination. Shake the tube before dispensing to ensure even pigment distribution.
Yes — 1.5 oz / 42.5 g is under the TSA 3.4 oz liquid limit. Tube format is leak-resistant and compact enough for carry-on bags. Ideal for travel, gym bags, and on-the-go reapplication.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — this is one of the safest sunscreens available during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula uses only Titanium Dioxide (8%) and Zinc Oxide (3.8%) as active UV filters. Both are inorganic mineral actives that sit on top of the skin and do not penetrate the skin barrier, meaning no systemic absorption occurs. They are classified as FDA Category I (safe and effective) and are consistently recommended by OB-GYNs and dermatologists as the preferred sunscreen actives during pregnancy. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, chemical sunscreens, parabens, or other ingredients of concern during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider with specific medical questions.
Yes — this formula is considered fungal acne safe. The entire inactive ingredient list is silicone-based (Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, etc.) with no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The active ingredients (Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide) are inert minerals with no fungal-feeding properties. This is confirmed by independent skincare analysis databases. It is one of the better-rated SPF options for those managing fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis.
Yes, with proper layering. This product is your final AM skincare step, applied after all other products. Apply your Vitamin C serum, niacinamide, or other antioxidant treatments first and allow them to absorb before applying this SPF primer. Retinol and exfoliating AHA/BHA acids should ideally be used in your PM routine only, not under sunscreen. If using a mild exfoliant in the AM, apply it first, allow it to absorb, apply your moisturizer, and then finish with this SPF. The silicone formula is compatible with most water-based and serum formulations — just allow each layer to set before applying the next to prevent pilling.
This product is best suited to oily, combination, normal, and sensitive skin types. The oil-free, silicone-based formula provides excellent shine control and a matte finish that oily and combination skin types particularly love. It is also an outstanding choice for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin due to its mineral-only filters and completely fragrance-free, paraben-free, preservative-free formulation. Those with very dry or dehydrated skin may find the matte finish too tight — a nourishing moisturizer applied underneath helps, though for very dry skin, CōTZ Face Moisture SPF 35 may be a better match.
Sun protection benefits are immediate from the first application — mineral SPF works instantly upon contact with skin (unlike chemical sunscreens that need 20 minutes to activate). The primer and pore-blurring benefits are also immediately visible. For longer-term results, daily consistent use prevents photoaging from accumulating, meaning your skin will look younger and more even-toned compared to unprotected skin over months and years. Users dealing with melasma often notice reduced darkening within 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use, thanks to the iron oxide tint providing supplemental visible light protection.
This product is always your last skincare step in the AM routine, applied after cleanser, toner, essence, serums, eye cream, and moisturizer. The brand specifically instructs users to apply it as the final step. After applying your moisturizer, wait 60 seconds for it to absorb, shake the CōTZ tube, then dispense two finger lengths and blend evenly over face and neck. Wait another 60–90 seconds for the CōTZ to set before applying any makeup on top. Do not apply other products over the top of SPF in the morning — SPF must be the last skincare layer to function correctly.
No — this formula is non-comedogenic and rated 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale, making it safe for acne-prone and pore-conscious skin types. The formula contains no oils, no heavy occlusive ingredients, and no known pore-clogging actives. The silicone base (Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane) is considered non-comedogenic as it sits on the surface of skin without penetrating pores. Independent reviews confirm no common comedogenic ingredients are present. Many users with acne-prone skin report reduced breakouts compared to other sunscreens, partly due to the mild anti-inflammatory properties of Zinc Oxide.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. The tube format helps protect the formula from air exposure and contamination. Signs that the product may be past its prime include changes in color, texture, or smell. With the recommended two-finger-length daily application, a 1.5 oz tube typically lasts 3–6 weeks of daily use, so most users will go through the product well before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: CōTZ Face Prime & Protect SPF 40 Tinted byCotz Skincare is one of the most thoughtfully formulated mineral sunscreen-primers available in the US market. Its all-silicone, oil-free base delivers a genuinely matte, pore-blurring finish that most mineral SPFs fail to achieve, while the dual Titanium Dioxide + Zinc Oxide actives provide true broad-spectrum protection without chemical filters. The iron oxide tint eliminates white cast and adds clinically meaningful visible light protection — making it particularly beneficial for those managing melasma or hyperpigmentation. It is pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, reef-friendly, and suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin alike. The primary limitations are the small 1.5 oz size that may feel expensive for frequent use, a single universal tint that may not suit all skin tones, and the absence of humectants that can leave very dry skin feeling tight. For oily to normal skin types seeking a premium, simplified morning routine, this is a near-ideal solution — an SPF, primer, and light-coverage tint in a single clean step.
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
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 |
Titanium Dioxide
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Opacifying, Cosmetic Colorant, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Alumina
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclohexasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|