Foaming Facial Wash
Foaming Facial Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A pre-foamed, pH-balanced Japanese facial cleanser that gently removes impurities without stripping your skin's natural ceramides. Powered by amino acid-derived surfactants and soothing Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, it leaves skin dewy, comfortable, and hydration-ready — the ideal second step for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin types following Curel's double-cleansing ritual.
Pre-Formed Foam Pump
Dispenses ready-to-use foam directly from the pump — no foaming net or rubbing required, reducing mechanical friction on sensitive skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPre-Formed Foam Pump
Dispenses ready-to-use foam directly from the pump — no foaming net or rubbing required, reducing mechanical friction on sensitive skin.
Ceramide-Protecting Formula
Uses mild amino acid surfactants (Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroyl Aspartate) that cleanse without stripping the skin's natural ceramide barrier.
pH 5.5 Balanced
Matched to the skin's natural slightly acidic pH, helping maintain a healthy microbiome and minimise post-cleanse tightness or irritation.
Soothing Licorice Extract
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate — the active from licorice root — calms redness and provides anti-inflammatory support ideal for reactive and eczema-prone skin.
Dual Humectant Hydration
Glycerin and Maltitol work together to draw and retain moisture in the stratum corneum, so skin stays hydrated even right after cleansing.
Japanese Double-Cleansing Step 2
Designed as the water-based second step following Curel's Makeup Cleansing Gel or Oil, completing the Japanese ritualistic double-cleanse for a thorough yet gentle cleanse.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. The formula is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Methylparaben is present at cosmetically low concentrations — no major safety authority has flagged it as harmful at these levels, but consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
Contains Polysorbate 60, a polyethylene glycol ester that can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne breakouts in susceptible individuals. If you have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), consider a certified FA-safe cleanser instead.
Free from pore-clogging oils and heavy waxes. All surfactants are water-rinsed, leaving no occlusive residue. Very unlikely to cause blackheads or breakouts in most skin types.
Contains no added fragrance ingredients or synthetic dyes — two of the most common causes of contact dermatitis. Suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin and patients with allergic contact dermatitis.
Uses amino acid-derived surfactants instead of harsh sulfates. This significantly reduces the risk of stripping the skin barrier, making it suitable for eczema-prone and rosacea skin.
Contains no denatured alcohol (SD Alcohol, Alcohol Denat.) or other short-chain drying alcohols that can disrupt the lipid barrier and cause stinging or flakiness.
A widely used preservative considered safe by the FDA, Health Canada, and EU cosmetics regulation at low concentrations. However, some individuals may prefer paraben-free formulations — particularly those with paraben sensitivity.
Clinically tested on sensitive and dry skin types. Formulated to Kao Corporation's rigorous safety standards, meeting FDA, Health Canada, and EU cosmetic regulatory requirements.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin Top 5Proven
One of skincare's most well-researched humectants. Glycerin draws water molecules from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum, providing immediate and sustained hydration without occlusion.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent, osmolyte
- Science: Glycerin is naturally present in skin as part of the Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF); topical application has been shown in multiple studies to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Benefit in a cleanser: Counteracts the drying effect of surfactants by retaining moisture during and after rinsing
Maltitol Top 5Proven
A sugar alcohol derived from maltose. Used as an additional humectant alongside glycerin, Maltitol helps the formula maintain moisture in the skin's outer layers and contributes to the smooth, non-stripping feel after rinsing.
- Function: Humectant, viscosity modifier, skin-feel enhancer
- Origin: Derived from starch hydrolysis
- Benefit: Improves the dewy, non-tight afterfeel that the Curel Foaming Wash is known for
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate SurfactantProven
An amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut oil and glutamic acid (an amino acid naturally found in skin). One of the gentlest cleansing agents available, it lifts dirt and sebum without disrupting the lipid barrier.
- Function: Primary surfactant / cleansing agent
- Mildness: Classified as "extremely mild" in comparative surfactant irritancy studies — significantly gentler than SLS, SLES, or even cocamidopropyl betaine
- pH compatibility: Works best in mildly acidic formulas (pH 5–6), making it ideal for a pH 5.5 product
Sodium Lauroyl Aspartate SurfactantProven
Another amino acid-based surfactant, the sodium salt of lauroyl aspartic acid. Works synergistically with Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate to produce a fine, creamy foam while maintaining low irritancy potential. Also has mild skin-conditioning properties.
- Function: Co-surfactant, foam enhancer, skin conditioner
- Skin compatibility: Compatible with ceramide-containing formulas — does not disrupt lamellar body secretion in the epidermis
- INCI origin: Lauric acid (coconut-derived) + aspartic acid (amino acid)
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate ActiveProven
The potassium salt of glycyrrhizic acid, extracted from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). This is the key active ingredient in the Curel line, responsible for the anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing benefits that make the formula suitable for reactive and compromised skin.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, antioxidant, sebum-regulating
- Research: Published studies demonstrate that glycyrrhizic acid inhibits the enzyme responsible for prostaglandin synthesis, reducing inflammatory mediators in the skin
- Additional benefit: According to manufacturer data, it has mild sebum-regulating properties, beneficial for oily or combination skin
Polysorbate 60 EmulsifierPromising
A sorbitol-derived emulsifier used to stabilise the foam structure and keep ingredients evenly distributed. While effective as an emulsifier, it is classified as a potential trigger for Malassezia (fungal acne) because it provides a lipid-rich food source for the yeast.
- Function: Emulsifier, surfactant, foam stabiliser
- Comedogenic rating: 0 (does not clog pores)
- FA safety: Listed as a potential Malassezia feeder due to ester structure
15 ingredients
Water/Aqua, Glycerin, Maltitol, Propylene Glycol, PEG-150, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroyl Aspartate, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Polysorbate 60, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Potassium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis is Step 2 (water-based cleanser) of the Japanese double-cleansing ritual. In the morning, it can be used solo as your only cleanser. Apply toner or hydrating essence immediately after to maximise moisture absorption on freshly cleansed skin.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face. Avoid hot water as it can accelerate ceramide depletion and increase skin sensitivity.
Dispense 2 Pumps
Press the pump 2 times to dispense pre-formed foam directly into your palm. Note: do not shake or tilt the bottle or the foam dispenser may stop working properly.
Apply Gently to Face
Spread the foam over your wet face using gentle circular motions. No rubbing or lathering needed — the foam is already pre-formed. Focus on oilier zones (T-zone, nose) without over-cleansing drier areas.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water until no residue remains. The formula rinses clean without any slippery or filmy afterfeel.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Apply your toner or essence immediately while skin is still slightly damp for optimal absorption.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, very dry, or dehydrated skin that tightens after cleansing
- You have sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin
- You want a gentle second step in a double-cleansing routine
- You prefer fragrance-free, colorant-free, and alcohol-free formulas
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want a minimal, clean formula
- You have combination skin and need a mild morning cleanser
- You've experienced irritation with sulfate-based cleansers in the past
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — Polysorbate 60 is a trigger
- You wear heavy, long-wear, or waterproof makeup and need a single-step cleanser
- You have very oily skin and prefer a more thorough, deep-cleanse feel
- You are strictly paraben-free and avoid all forms of methylparaben
- You prefer a gel, cream, or micellar format over foam
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for dry skin. Amino acid surfactants and dual humectants (glycerin + maltitol) prevent the post-wash tight, stripped feeling common with harsher cleansers.
Fragrance-free, colorant-free, and sulfate-free formula. Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate actively calms inflammation. Dermatologist-tested and allergy-tested on sensitive skin.
Mild enough for dry zones, but may feel insufficient as a sole cleanser for very oily T-zones. Works well as a morning cleanser or double-cleanse step 2.
Can be too mild for those needing strong oil control. Works best in a double-cleanse routine or as a morning wash. For very oily skin types, consider a dedicated sebum-control cleanser.
Ceramide-protecting, barrier-gentle formula is highly appropriate for atopic dermatitis. pH 5.5 formula aligns with recommendations from multiple dermatology guidelines for eczema cleansing.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Suitable for acne-prone skin that is also dry or sensitive. Not ideal for fungal acne (Malassezia) due to Polysorbate 60 content.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort & No Tightness
From the very first wash, users report that skin feels soft, dewy, and comfortable immediately after rinsing — unlike typical cleansers that leave a dry or tight sensation. The pre-formed foam requires no effort to lather.
90%+ noticedReduced Dryness & Flakiness
With consistent daily use, the skin barrier begins to recover from the effects of previous harsh cleansers. Dry patches and flakiness typically decrease as ceramide levels are better preserved during the cleansing step.
75% noticedCalmer, Less Reactive Skin
The cumulative anti-inflammatory effect of Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate becomes more apparent — redness and irritation-prone skin tends to become visibly calmer and more balanced with continued use.
65% noticedImproved Skin Barrier & Overall Texture
Long-term users report that their overall skin texture becomes smoother and more resilient. Moisturisers applied after cleansing tend to absorb more effectively as the barrier is no longer compromised by surfactant damage.
55% noticedRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Pre-formed foam — no foaming net or vigorous rubbing needed
- Skin feels soft, dewy, and non-tight after every wash
- Truly fragrance-free and unscented — even sensitive noses are happy
- pH 5.5 formula supports the skin's acid mantle and microbiome
- Gentle enough for eczema-prone and post-procedure skin
- Does not strip ceramides — supports barrier recovery
- Rinses completely clean — no residue or film left behind
- Accessible price point for a J-beauty amino acid formula
- Minimal, clean ingredient list (only 15 ingredients)
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains Polysorbate 60
- Cannot remove heavy or waterproof makeup on its own
- May feel too mild for very oily skin as a standalone cleanser
- Contains Methylparaben — not ideal for strict paraben-free routines
- 150ml bottle may last only 2–3 months with daily use
- Foam can malfunction if bottle is shaken or stored upside down
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also a J-beauty foam pump cleanser with amino acid surfactants and a hydrating formula. Uses hyaluronic acid instead of glycerin/maltitol as the primary humectant. Very similar gentle cleanse, but contains a wider range of ingredients. Not fragrance-free in all variants.
Sulfate-free, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested — very close positioning to Curel. Lacks the ceramide-protecting philosophy and amino acid purity of the Japanese formula. Contains Lauryl Glucoside, a mild but not as delicate surfactant. Widely available and much more affordable.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and enriched with vitamins. Uses sodium lauryl glucose carboxylate as the main surfactant — milder than SLS but not as gentle as amino acid surfactants. No ceramide-protection claim. Good everyday budget option for sensitive skin, but less sophisticated formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check for the open jar symbol on the packaging for confirmation. Discard if the product changes colour, smell, or texture before that date.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or high humidity (e.g., inside a steamy shower). Do not freeze.
Pre-foaming pump dispenser in a rigid plastic bottle. Do not shake or tilt the bottle — the internal foaming mechanism requires upright storage to function correctly. A refill pouch version is available for sustainability-conscious shoppers.
At 150ml / 5oz, this exceeds the standard 100ml carry-on liquid limit for most airlines. Pack in checked luggage or decant into a smaller travel bottle. A 40ml travel size is available in some markets.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Curel Foaming Facial Wash is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters — the main ingredients flagged by dermatologists as risky during pregnancy. It does contain Methylparaben as a preservative, which is used at a very low cosmetic concentration and has not been contraindicated during pregnancy by the FDA, Health Canada, or EU regulatory authorities. However, if you have concerns, always consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before changing your skincare routine during pregnancy.
No — the Curel Foaming Facial Wash is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Polysorbate 60, a polyethylene glycol ester that Malassezia yeast can metabolise as a food source, potentially worsening fungal acne breakouts. If you have confirmed Malassezia folliculitis (characterised by small, uniform, itchy bumps, often around the hairline, forehead, or chest), look for a cleanser that is certified fungal acne (FA) safe. Good alternatives include the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser or the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser.
Yes — because the Curel Foaming Facial Wash is a rinse-off cleanser, it does not interfere with active ingredients applied afterwards such as retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA. In fact, its ceramide-protecting and pH 5.5 formula makes it an excellent choice as the cleansing step before applying exfoliating actives, as it does not compromise the skin barrier prior to treatment. If you use leave-on AHA or BHA exfoliants, cleansing with this product first helps maintain the acid mantle so your actives work at optimal efficacy. Avoid using the wash immediately after in-clinic procedures (e.g., peels, microneedling) — check with your dermatologist.
The Curel Foaming Facial Wash was specifically designed and clinically tested for dry and sensitive skin. It is particularly excellent for eczema-prone, atopic, and barrier-compromised skin types. It works well for combination skin as a morning cleanser or as the second step in a double-cleansing routine. It is less ideal for very oily skin types who need deeper cleansing, and should be avoided by those with confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) due to the Polysorbate 60 content.
The most immediate benefit — skin feeling soft, dewy, and non-tight after washing — is noticeable from the very first use. With consistent daily use, improvements in dryness, flakiness, and skin tightness typically appear within 1–2 weeks as the skin barrier is better preserved during each cleansing step. Calmer, less reactive skin (from the cumulative anti-inflammatory effect of Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate) is generally reported by weeks 3–4. Long-term improvements in skin texture and barrier resilience are typically observed after 2–3 months of regular use.
The Curel Foaming Facial Wash is Step 2 (water-based cleanser) in a double-cleansing routine. It should be used after an oil-based cleanser or makeup remover (such as the Curel Makeup Cleansing Gel or any cleansing oil) to rinse away impurities. In the morning, when you haven't worn makeup, you can use the Foaming Facial Wash as your only cleanser. After cleansing, continue with your toner, essence, serums, moisturiser, and SPF. Apply your toner or essence while skin is still slightly damp for maximum absorption.
No, the Curel Foaming Facial Wash has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula contains no fatty oils, heavy waxes, or high-comedogenic ingredients. All surfactants are water-rinsed, leaving no occlusive film on the skin. It is very unlikely to cause clogged pores or blackheads in most skin types. It is also free from pore-clogging silicones and mineral oil. For reference, the most scrutinised ingredient is Propylene Glycol (comedogenic rating: 0) and Polysorbate 60 (comedogenic rating: 0) — neither of which clogs pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for the Curel Foaming Facial Wash is 12 months. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" printed inside it. With typical daily use of 2 pumps per wash (morning and evening), a 150ml bottle generally lasts approximately 2–4 months. If you use it only once daily (e.g., morning only), the bottle can last 4–6 months well within the PAO window. Discard the product if you notice any change in colour, texture, or odour before the 12-month period.
Verdict: The Curel Foaming Facial Wash is an outstanding choice for anyone with dry, sensitive, or barrier-compromised skin who wants a gentle, low-effort cleanse that genuinely respects the skin's natural moisture levels. Its minimal 15-ingredient formula, amino acid-based surfactants, pH 5.5 balance, and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate active set it apart from most Western counterparts at a similar price point. The pre-formed foam pump is a true differentiator — removing the need for a foaming net and reducing mechanical friction during cleansing. The primary caveats are the presence of Polysorbate 60 (making it unsuitable for fungal acne-prone skin) and Methylparaben (a concern for strict paraben-avoiders). For its target audience of dry and sensitive skin types, however, this is one of the most well-formulated J-beauty cleansers available.
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):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Maltitol
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Moisturising
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-150
Humectant, Solvent
|
|