Finacea Azelaic Acid Foam 15%
Finacea Azelaic Acid Foam 15%
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength 15% azelaic acid hydrophilic foam from LEO Pharma, FDA-approved for the topical treatment of inflammatory papules and pustules of mild-to-moderate rosacea. The light, airy, water-based foam delivers a clinically-proven dicarboxylic acid that calms redness, fights bumps, fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and gently exfoliates without making skin photosensitive.
Treats Papulopustular Rosacea
FDA-approved to reduce inflammatory bumps and pimple-like pustules of mild-to-moderate rosacea, validated in 12-week trials with 1,362 subjects.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTreats Papulopustular Rosacea
FDA-approved to reduce inflammatory bumps and pimple-like pustules of mild-to-moderate rosacea, validated in 12-week trials with 1,362 subjects.
Hydrophilic Foam Vehicle
Light, water-based foam that collapses on contact for easy spreading — designed for rosacea-prone skin that often dislikes thick creams or sticky gels.
Fades Post-Acne Marks
Inhibits tyrosinase to soften post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, and dark spots without bleaching healthy skin like hydroquinone.
Non-Photosensitizing
Unlike AHAs and retinoids, azelaic acid does not increase sun sensitivity — making it a safer daily active for fair, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin.
Pregnancy-Compatible Active
Azelaic acid is one of the few brightening/anti-acne ingredients widely accepted by OB-GYNs and dermatologists during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Layer-Friendly Formula
Plays well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and even mild retinoids — making it easy to slot into existing routines.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEMinimal systemic absorption; azelaic acid is naturally present in human milk. Generally considered safe — but always confirm with your OB-GYN.
Does not cause photosensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ is still recommended, especially for rosacea-prone skin where UV is a major trigger.
About 6% of users report mild burning, stinging, or "pins and needles" — usually fading within the first 1–2 weeks of use.
Isolated reports of skin lightening, especially in deeper skin tones. Monitor and stop if you notice unwanted lightening of healthy skin.
The aerosol can is pressurized with propane/butane/isobutane. Keep away from open flames, do not smoke during application, and do not store above 49°C/120°F.
Postmarketing reports of worsening asthma and rare hypersensitivity. Consult your prescriber if you have severe respiratory conditions.
Can cause eye irritation. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes; rinse thoroughly with water if accidental contact occurs.
Compatible with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and most moisturizers. Use with caution alongside strong AHAs/BHAs or prescription retinoids — alternate AM/PM if irritation occurs.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAzelaic Acid 15%Proven
A naturally-occurring saturated dicarboxylic acid (also produced by skin yeast) that simultaneously fights inflammation, reduces papulopustular lesions, lightens hyperpigmentation, normalizes keratinization, and exhibits antimicrobial activity against acne and rosacea triggers.
- FDA Trial Data: Two 12-week vehicle-controlled trials in 1,362 patients showed significantly greater reduction in inflammatory papules and pustules versus vehicle.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase (pigment enzyme), scavenges reactive oxygen species, and disrupts abnormal keratinocyte proliferation.
- Pigmentation: Studies show 15–20% azelaic acid is comparable to 4% hydroquinone for melasma but with a better safety profile.
Benzoic Acid <1%Proven
A pH-adjusting preservative with mild antifungal action that extends product stability without relying on parabens or formaldehyde donors.
- Function: Inhibits fungal and yeast growth; works synergistically with the acidic pH of the formula.
- Safety: Naturally occurring in cinnamon, cloves, and berries; very low irritation potential at cosmetic concentrations.
Cetearyl Alcohol ~3–5%Proven
A fatty alcohol blend (cetyl + stearyl) used as an emulsifier and emollient. Forms the structural backbone of the foam and helps prevent transepidermal water loss.
- Function: Emulsifies the oil-water phases, thickens the foam, and softens skin's surface barrier.
- Note: "Fatty alcohols" are non-drying — completely different from denatured alcohol/SD alcohol.
Dimethyl Isosorbide ~5–10%Proven
A high-performance cosmetic solvent that acts as a penetration enhancer, helping azelaic acid reach deeper layers of the epidermis where rosacea inflammation occurs.
- Penetration: Improves bioavailability of poorly-soluble actives like azelaic acid without disrupting the skin barrier.
- Tolerance: Considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic at typical use levels.
C10-18 Triglycerides ~3–5%Proven
Medium-chain triglycerides derived from coconut/palm — a lightweight, non-greasy emollient that softens the foam's feel and supports the skin barrier.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0–1 on the comedogenic scale; widely used in non-comedogenic formulations.
- Function: Replaces heavier oils to keep the foam suitable for combination, oily, and acne-prone skin.
Methylcellulose ~1%Proven
A plant-derived viscosity modifier that stabilizes the emulsion and contributes to the foam's silky-light texture.
- Source: Modified plant cellulose; non-toxic and non-irritating.
- Role: Suspends the active and prevents phase separation.
PEG-6 Almond Glycerides ~2%Promising
Emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent (listed in INCI as the mono-/di-glyceride blend in the FDA package insert) that helps disperse the oil phase and adds a soft after-feel.
- Function: Co-emulsifier that smooths the foam application.
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated; almond-derived but processed to remove allergenic proteins.
PEG-40 Stearate ~2%Proven
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier (polyoxyl 40 stearate in the FDA insert) that keeps the water and oil phases of the foam stable and uniform.
- Function: Industry-standard emulsifier in pharmaceutical and cosmetic foams.
- Tolerance: Very low irritation potential; suitable for sensitive skin.
Polysorbate 80 ~1%Proven
A water-soluble surfactant derived from sorbitol and oleic acid that helps disperse the oil phase and stabilize the foam.
- Function: Solubilizer and emulsifier.
- Note: Often discussed in fungal-acne contexts — at this low concentration it is generally well-tolerated by malassezia-prone skin, but very sensitive users should patch-test.
Propylene Glycol ~5–10%Proven
A small-molecule humectant and penetration enhancer that draws water into the stratum corneum and helps deliver azelaic acid more efficiently.
- Function: Humectant + solvent for the active.
- Tolerance: Some users report mild stinging on broken skin; generally well-tolerated otherwise.
Water (Aqua) BaseProven
Purified water forms the hydrophilic continuous phase of the foam — the reason this product feels lighter than oil-based azelaic acid creams.
- Role: Solvent, carrier, and the reason the foam absorbs cleanly.
Sodium Hydroxide traceProven
Used in tiny amounts to neutralize the acidic azelaic acid and adjust the formula to a skin-friendly pH (around 4.8–5.2).
- Function: pH buffer only — no skin contact effect at these levels.
Xanthan Gum ~0.3%Proven
A natural fermentation-derived polysaccharide that thickens and stabilizes the formula.
- Source: Produced by Xanthomonas campestris fermentation.
- Role: Suspends the active and improves the foam's spreadability.
13 ingredients
Azelaic Acid 15%, Benzoic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, C10-18 Triglycerides (Medium-Chain Triglycerides), Methylcellulose, PEG-6 Almond Glycerides (Mono- and Di-Glycerides), PEG-40 Stearate (Polyoxyl 40 Stearate), Polysorbate 80, Propylene Glycol, Water (Purified), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Xanthan Gum. Propellants: Propane, Butane, Isobutane.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply twice daily (morning and evening) on dry, freshly-cleansed skin. Wait until fully absorbed before layering moisturizer or sunscreen. Always finish your AM routine with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash with a very mild, soap-free cleanser. Avoid alcoholic toners, abrasives, and peeling agents. Pat dry with a soft towel.
Shake the Can
Shake well before each use to ensure the foam is properly mixed. Hold the can upright.
Dispense a Small Amount
Press the nozzle to release the smallest amount of foam needed to cover the affected area — about a hazelnut-sized portion for the full face.
Apply a Thin Layer
Gently spread a thin layer over the entire facial area: cheeks, chin, forehead, and nose. The foam will collapse into a light cream.
Wash Hands & Wait
Wash your hands immediately after application. Allow the foam to dry fully (about 1 minute) before layering moisturizer, makeup, or sunscreen.
Repeat Twice Daily
Use morning and evening continuously for at least 12 weeks. Reassess with your dermatologist if no improvement is seen by week 12.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate papulopustular rosacea (bumps + pustules + redness)
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin and dislike heavy creams
- You struggle with adult acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safer brightening/anti-acne option
- Your skin reacts to retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or strong AHAs
- You want a non-photosensitizing daytime active
Consider alternatives if:
- You have ocular, phymatous, or plaque-type rosacea (this is for papulopustular)
- You have very dry, eczema-prone skin that reacts to propylene glycol
- You have severe asthma (rare worsening reported)
- You have a known hypersensitivity to azelaic acid
- You prefer a non-aerosol, non-flammable format (consider Finacea Gel)
- You have a deep skin tone and a history of hypopigmentation reactions
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight water-based foam absorbs cleanly without adding oil or shine — ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
Tolerated well, but a richer ceramide moisturizer afterwards is recommended to prevent any dryness from azelaic acid.
Balances both T-zone oiliness and drier cheeks — the foam format suits combination skin perfectly.
Specifically designed for rosacea — fragrance-free and well-tolerated. Some initial tingling is normal during the first 1–2 weeks.
Non-comedogenic and antibacterial against C. acnes — also fades acne marks. Used off-label for adult acne.
Excellent for hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-acne dark marks; tyrosinase-inhibiting effect rivals 4% hydroquinone.
Results timeline
12+ WEEKSInitial Adjustment Phase
Mild burning, stinging, or "pins and needles" sensation may appear during the first few applications. Skin may feel slightly tight; some users report short-lived redness or dryness.
~30% report initial tinglingBumps Begin to Calm
Inflammatory papules and pustules visibly decrease. Tingling typically subsides. Skin starts to feel smoother, with fewer new breakouts.
~60% see early improvementRedness & Texture Improve
Diffuse redness softens and skin texture becomes more refined. Post-acne marks (PIH) start fading, and pores look smaller.
~70% noticeable redness reductionFull Clinical Effect
Pivotal trials measured peak efficacy at 12 weeks: meaningful reduction in inflammatory lesion counts and Investigator Global Assessment scores versus vehicle.
~75–80% report clear or near-clear skinMaintenance Phase
Continued twice-daily use maintains rosacea control and progressive fading of pigmentation. Reassess with your dermatologist after 12 weeks if results are insufficient.
Long-term control with continued useRatings by platform
82+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- FDA-approved at clinical 15% strength — far beyond OTC azelaic acid (max 10%)
- Lightweight foam absorbs faster than the gel form
- Visibly reduces papules, pustules, and rosacea redness in 8–12 weeks
- Fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma
- Pregnancy- and breastfeeding-compatible per most dermatologists
- Does not cause photosensitivity — safe for daytime use
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free
- Can be worn under makeup once dry
Criticized
- Prescription-only — requires a dermatologist visit
- Expensive without insurance ($175–$600 retail; ~$30–$50 with coupons)
- Short shelf life: discard 8 weeks after opening
- Initial stinging/burning in 6%+ of users
- Aerosol can is flammable — avoid heat and flame
- Aerosol packaging not allowed in airplane carry-on (under standard rules)
- Rare reports of hypopigmentation in deeper skin tones
- May worsen asthma in rare cases
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Cosmetic-grade 10% azelaic acid in a silicone suspension — about two-thirds the strength of Finacea but a fraction of the price. Texture feels gritty and pills under sunscreen, but it's the most accessible OTC option for mild concerns.
10% azelaic acid + 0.5% salicylic acid in a soothing emulsion with allantoin and licorice. More elegant texture than The Ordinary's, but still half the strength of Finacea Foam.
10% azelaic acid in a lightweight cream with niacinamide and adaptogens. Praised for minimal stinging and a smooth, pillable-free finish — best OTC option for sensitive rosacea-prone skin.
FDA-approved generic of Finacea Gel at the same 15% strength. Different vehicle (gel vs foam) and different excipients, but therapeutically equivalent. Cost-Plus Drugs and GoodRx coupons can drop it under $30.
European 20% azelaic acid cream from the same manufacturer. Higher strength, often available without prescription in some EU countries. Cream texture is heavier than the foam.
10% azelaic acid in a hydrating serum with squalane and allantoin. Gentler and easier to layer than The Ordinary's suspension, but lower potency than Finacea.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Soolantra (Ivermectin 1%)
Metrogel (Metronidazole 1%)
Storage & shelf life
2 MONTHSDiscard 8 weeks (2 months) after first use. Unusually short due to the pressurized aerosol format.
Store at 25°C (77°F). Brief excursions allowed between 15–30°C. Never above 49°C/120°F. Keep upright; do not pierce or burn the can.
Pressurized aluminum aerosol can with continuous spray valve, 50g net weight.
Limited — pressurized aerosol cans face restrictions on airplanes and cannot be exposed to high heat. Pack carefully or consider Finacea Gel for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQGenerally yes — azelaic acid is one of the few brightening and anti-acne actives most dermatologists and OB-GYNs feel comfortable with during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Per the FDA prescribing information, azelaic acid is minimally absorbed through the skin and is naturally present in human milk, so topical use is not expected to result in clinically meaningful fetal or infant exposure. That said, prescription decisions during pregnancy should always be made with your healthcare provider, especially given the propellant in the foam.
Mostly yes. Azelaic acid itself has antifungal activity against malassezia and is often recommended for fungal acne. The formula is fragrance-free, oil-free, and ester-free. The one ingredient sometimes flagged in fungal-acne communities is polysorbate 80, which is debated rather than confirmed problematic — and it's used here at a low stabilizing concentration. Most fungal-acne-prone users tolerate Finacea well; very reactive users may prefer Finacea Gel, which has a slightly different excipient list.
Yes — azelaic acid plays well with most actives. With niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides it's a perfect match anytime. With vitamin C, layer azelaic acid on top after vitamin C absorbs, or alternate AM/PM. With retinol or prescription tretinoin, alternate evenings (azelaic AM, retinoid PM) until your skin builds tolerance. With AHAs/BHAs, use them on different days to avoid over-exfoliation. Always finish your AM routine with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Finacea Foam is ideal for oily, combination, and acne- or rosacea-prone skin thanks to its lightweight, water-based foam vehicle. Sensitive skin tolerates it well — the formula is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and SkinSAFE-rated as 91% allergen-free. Dry skin can use it but should layer a richer ceramide moisturizer afterwards. People with deeper skin tones should monitor for any unwanted lightening, as rare hypopigmentation has been reported.
Most users notice early calming of bumps and pustules within 2–4 weeks. Visible reduction in redness and improvement of post-acne pigmentation typically appears between weeks 4 and 8. The pivotal 12-week clinical trials measured peak rosacea improvement at the 12-week mark, with about 75–80% of patients reaching clear or near-clear skin. If you don't see meaningful improvement after 12 weeks, your dermatologist will reassess your treatment plan.
Apply Finacea Foam after cleansing and any hydrating toner, but before serums and moisturizer. The order is: gentle cleanser → hydrating toner (optional) → Finacea Foam (twice daily, on dry skin) → wait ~1 minute → soothing serum (optional) → moisturizer → broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning. Wash hands immediately after application and let the foam absorb fully before layering anything else.
No. Finacea Foam scores 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale and is in fact often used off-label to treat acne. It contains no heavy oils, no high-comedogenicity esters, and no occlusive butters. Azelaic acid itself helps normalize keratinization, which actually unclogs pores rather than blocking them, and it has antibacterial activity against C. acnes (the main acne-causing bacterium).
Finacea Foam should be discarded 8 weeks (2 months) after first use, even if there's still product in the can. This is much shorter than most cosmetics because it's a sterile pharmaceutical aerosol — once the seal is broken, formula stability and microbial safety are only validated for that window. Store at room temperature (around 25°C / 77°F) and never expose the can to temperatures above 49°C/120°F or open flames.
Verdict: Finacea Azelaic Acid Foam 15% from LEO Pharma remains one of the most respected prescription rosacea treatments on the market — a clinically-proven 15% azelaic acid in an unusually elegant water-based foam vehicle. It's well-tolerated, non-photosensitizing, pregnancy-friendly, and uniquely capable of treating bumps, redness, and post-inflammatory pigmentation in one product. The downsides are the prescription requirement, retail cost, and the very short 8-week shelf life after opening. For mild-to-moderate papulopustular rosacea or stubborn adult acne with PIH, it's a top-tier dermatological choice; budget shoppers can start with The Ordinary 10% or Naturium 10% and step up to Finacea if results plateau.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Benzoic Acid
Masking, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
C10-18 Triglycerides
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|