Freeze Frame Peptide Serum Concentrate
Freeze Frame Peptide Serum Concentrate
Product Description
Product overview
A supercharged anti-aging serum from Educated Mess delivering 3 advanced peptide complexes and an energetic booster complex to visibly plump, lift, and firm skin. Formulated with clinically studied peptides Matrixyl, Leuphasyl/Argireline analogs, and the cutting-edge X50 MYOCEPT expression-line complex — this concentrate targets fine lines, loss of firmness, and skin dullness with a science-first approach. Lightweight, silky, and fragrance-free.
3 Advanced Peptide Complexes
Matrixyl (collagen-booster), X50 MYOCEPT (expression-line relaxer), and the HA/Collagen Plumping complex — three synergistic systems targeting different root causes of aging.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3 Advanced Peptide Complexes
Matrixyl (collagen-booster), X50 MYOCEPT (expression-line relaxer), and the HA/Collagen Plumping complex — three synergistic systems targeting different root causes of aging.
Energetic Booster: Neodermyl
Methylglucoside Phosphate + Copper Lysinate/Prolinate recharge aging skin cells and are clinically shown to boost both collagen I/III and elastin production.
Diamond Powder Brightening
Finely milled diamond powder delivers an instant optical brightening effect while also supporting even skin tone for a lit-from-within radiance.
Resveratrol Antioxidant Shield
This potent polyphenol antioxidant helps neutralize free radicals, reduce UV-triggered oxidative damage, and support a more even, radiant complexion.
Targeted Peptide Delivery System
Advanced copolymer shells encapsulate and protect peptides, releasing them precisely where they exert the most benefit — overcoming the classic skin-penetration barrier challenge.
Multi-Humectant Hydration
Glycerin, Acetamidoethoxyethanol (clinically shown to outperform glycerin), and Sodium Hyaluronate work together to deliver deep, long-lasting moisture at multiple skin layers.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, or chemical UV filters. The peptides, humectants, and antioxidants in this formula are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor.
Contains Polysorbate 20, Heptapeptide-15 Palmitate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-50, and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-52 — ingredients with fatty acid components that can feed Malassezia yeast. Those with active fungal acne should exercise caution.
Oil-free formula with no known high-comedogenic oils. Dimethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane are non-pore-clogging. Overall very low risk for acne-prone skin types.
Peptides in this formula are highly stable and unaffected by acidic pH environments. You can safely layer this with vitamin C serums, AHAs, or BHAs — apply acids first, then this serum.
Unlike some peptides, these advanced complexes are stable alongside retinol. Use retinol at night; this serum can be layered before or after in your PM routine.
The Lactic Acid/Glycolic Acid Copolymer provides gentle exfoliation. Very reactive skin types should patch test first. No known common allergens beyond Phenoxyethanol preservative system.
No added fragrance, colorants, parabens, SLS, or lanolin. SkinSAFE-rated 91% free of the top 11 most common skin allergens. Teen Safe and Common Preservative Free.
Provides a light, non-irritating cooling sensation on application. Derived from menthol, it is present at low concentrations and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPalmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) 0.45%–1.05%Proven
The original collagen-boosting peptide — also known as Matrixyl. A KTTKS sequence derived from type I collagen, attached to palmitic acid for enhanced skin penetration. In this formula it is further conjugated with Resveratrol and Diamond Powder in a specialized stability complex to overcome classic delivery challenges.
- Mechanism: Signals fibroblasts to upregulate collagen I, III, and IV, as well as fibronectin production.
- Clinical data: Studies at just 3 ppm (0.0003%) showed wrinkle reduction comparable to 0.07% retinol, with superior tolerability.
- Stability: The resveratrol/diamond powder complex protects it from oxidation and improves skin delivery.
Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-52 + Palmitoyl Heptapeptide-18 (X50 MYOCEPT) 0.001% complexProven
The duo behind the "Freeze Frame" name — a trade-named expression-line targeting complex (X50 MYOCEPT) designed to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial movement. The delivery system uses a copolymer shell that encapsulates the active peptide, tags onto specific receptor sites in skin, and releases the active exactly where it is most needed.
- Mechanism: Targets muscle contraction signaling pathways at the dermal-muscular interface, reducing the appearance of expression lines over time.
- Effective concentration: The pair is effective at an ultra-low 0.001% recommended concentration.
- Brand data: 76.47% of subjects reported softened nasolabial folds in clinical consumer studies.
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-50 + Heptapeptide-15 Palmitate 0.30%–0.85%Promising
A targeted plumping peptide complex working to visibly support skin's own hyaluronic acid and collagen network. The copolymer delivery shell ensures this complex reaches its receptor site effectively, with the peptide on the outside of the shell acting as a "key" that recognizes the site of activity.
- Mechanism: Stimulates glycosaminoglycan (HA) synthesis in the dermis to support skin volume and hydration from within.
- Brand data: 91% of subjects said baseline hydration improved by week 4; 94% by week 12.
- Note: Contains palmitate fatty acid chains — not safe for those with active fungal/Malassezia acne.
Methylglucoside Phosphate + Copper Lysinate/Prolinate (Neodermyl) Active ComplexProven
The "energetic booster" of the formula — a trade-named complex (Neodermyl) combining a pre-activated cellular energy source with copper and essential amino acids. This is one of the very few topical ingredients with published evidence for boosting both collagen AND elastin production simultaneously.
- Collagen: Shown to increase collagen I and III synthesis in fibroblasts.
- Elastin: Notably stimulates elastin production — a rare and significant claim, as few topicals achieve this.
- Copper role: Acts as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase, the enzyme that crosslinks collagen and elastin fibers for structural integrity.
Resveratrol Trace–LowProven
A powerful polyphenol antioxidant found in grape skins, resveratrol protects skin from free radical damage, helps reduce UV-induced oxidative stress, and may contribute to a more even, brighter skin tone. In this formula it is bonded into the Matrixyl delivery complex to also serve as a stability enhancer.
- Antioxidant potency: Shown to be more potent than Vitamin E in some scavenging assays.
- Synergy: Works alongside Copper Lysinate/Prolinate to support overall antioxidant defense and radiance.
Diamond Powder TracePromising
Finely milled synthetic diamond particles with an exceptionally smooth, spherical shape. Primarily acts as a light-diffusing opacifier, providing an instant optical brightening and blurring effect on the skin's surface. Also serves as a carrier component in the Matrixyl stability complex.
- Function: Opacifying agent and light diffuser for an immediate brightening effect.
- Safety: Inert and non-reactive; no safety concerns at cosmetic concentrations.
Acetamidoethoxyethanol 3.40%–5.10%Promising
A next-generation synthetic humectant positioned near the top of the ingredient list, indicating significant concentration. Initial studies suggest it may outperform glycerin as a humectant — attracting moisture to the skin surface for longer while leaving a less sticky, more elegant skin feel.
- Performance: Demonstrated superior sustained hydration versus glycerin in early clinical testing.
- Texture benefit: Products containing it tend to feel lighter and less tacky than glycerin-heavy formulas.
Glycerin 4.10%–6.20%Proven
One of the best-studied and most effective humectants in skincare. Naturally present in healthy skin, glycerin draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum. Also has antimicrobial properties that support the skin barrier.
- Clinical: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Barrier: Supports skin barrier function and has mild antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.15%–0.60%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid — smaller molecular weight allows better penetration vs. plain HA. Can bind up to 1,000x its weight in water, delivering both surface and deeper-layer hydration to plump and support skin volume.
- Penetration: Smaller molecule than high-MW hyaluronic acid, enabling deeper dermal hydration.
- Synergy: Works alongside the peptide complexes to maintain the hyaluronic acid network in skin.
Lactic Acid/Glycolic Acid Copolymer LowPromising
A combined AHA copolymer that serves dual functions: it is part of the targeted peptide delivery system (as the copolymer "shell") and provides mild exfoliation at the skin surface. The combination of lactic and glycolic acid offers a gentler exfoliation profile than pure glycolic acid alone.
- Delivery role: Forms the encapsulating polymer shell that protects and delivers the plumping peptide complex.
- Exfoliation: Contributes mild surface renewal to support radiance and texture improvement.
30 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Acetamidoethoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polysorbate 20, 1,2-Hexanediol, Menthyl Lactate, Resveratrol, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-50, Heptapeptide-15 Palmitate, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-52, Palmitoyl Heptapeptide-18, Diamond Powder, Methylglucoside Phosphate, Copper Lysinate/Prolinate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactic Acid/Glycolic Acid Copolymer, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Hydroxyacetophenone, Glyceryl Caprylate, Phenylpropanol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based toners and lighter serums, before moisturizer. Best used in the AM to leverage the expression-line targeting peptide complex — you make fewer expressions while sleeping, so morning use maximizes its benefit. Can also be used in PM for enhanced firming results.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Apply your toner, essence, or any lightweight water-based serums first to prep the skin and allow better absorption of the peptides.
Dispense 1–2 Pumps
One to two pumps is sufficient for the full face and neck. The concentrate formula is designed to be used in small amounts — more is not necessarily better with peptide serums.
Press & Pat Into Skin
Gently press and pat the serum into skin — avoid tugging or rubbing. Focus on areas of concern: nasolabial folds, forehead lines, and the cheek/jaw area for lifting and firming.
Allow to Absorb (30 sec)
The lightweight serum absorbs quickly — typically within 30 seconds. You'll notice a subtle dewy, slightly plumped appearance immediately from the optical brightening and humectant blend.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Seal in the peptides with your moisturizer. In the AM always finish with SPF 30+ to protect the collagen-building work your peptides are doing.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're seeing early to moderate signs of aging — fine lines, expression lines, mild loss of firmness
- You want a science-backed, fragrance-free anti-aging serum with multiple proven peptides
- You're sensitive to retinol and looking for a gentler firming alternative
- You use injectables and want a topical complement to maintain results between appointments
- You have oily, combination, normal, dry, or sensitive skin types
- You layer multiple actives and need a peptide serum that plays well with others (vitamin C, AHAs, retinol)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — several peptide components are not FA-safe
- You want a budget-priced entry-level peptide product (The Ordinary is better value in that case)
- You prefer heavy, cream-textured serums or are looking for a primary moisturizer
- You need a certified organic or "clean beauty" formulation without synthetic ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight serum absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. The silicones in this formula create a smooth, non-greasy finish that oily skin types will appreciate.
The triple humectant blend (Glycerin, Acetamidoethoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate) delivers meaningful hydration, but dry skin types will want to follow with a rich moisturizer to lock in moisture.
Perfectly balanced texture — hydrates dry zones without overwhelming oily areas. Works harmoniously across different face regions and layers well in multi-product routines.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, and low-allergen profile makes this generally suitable for sensitive skin. The mild AHA copolymer and Menthyl Lactate could occasionally cause sensitivity — patch test first.
Low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and oil-free formula are positives. However, several palmitate-chain peptides and Polysorbate 20 make this NOT safe for Malassezia/fungal acne. For hormonal or comedonal acne it should be fine.
The primary target audience — multiple clinically studied peptides, collagen and elastin boosters, and expression-line targeting make this an excellent choice for anti-aging focused routines.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Optical Brightening & Plump Glow
Diamond powder provides an instant brightening, blurring effect on the skin surface. Humectants begin hydrating immediately for a plumped, dewy appearance right after application.
Instant visible effectImproved Hydration & Skin Feel
Consistent use of the triple humectant blend builds baseline hydration levels. Skin feels softer, more comfortable, and less tight throughout the day. Initial smoothing of rough texture may be noticed.
91% reported improved hydrationVisible Firmness & Early Anti-Aging
The Matrixyl and Neodermyl complexes begin showing measurable results. Skin appears more firm and resilient. Some users report the product "is working" at this stage. Expression lines may appear slightly softer.
94% said product appears to be workingEnhanced Firmness, Texture & Expression Lines
Collagen and elastin stimulation from Neodermyl and Matrixyl become more apparent. Skin texture is noticeably smoother. The X50 MYOCEPT expression-line targeting complex shows increasing softening of dynamic wrinkles.
91% noted improved firmness & smoother textureComprehensive Anti-Aging Transformation
Full benefit of the collagen/elastin rebuilding cycle is visible. Nasolabial folds appear softened. Skin is measurably firmer, more elastic, and better hydrated. Fine lines and expression lines are significantly less visible.
76% reported softened nasolabial foldsRatings by platform
REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 5 clinically studied peptides across 3 distinct complexes targeting different aging mechanisms
- Neodermyl energetic booster shown to stimulate both collagen AND elastin production
- Peptides stable alongside retinol, vitamin C, and AHA/BHA — no compatibility worries
- Fragrance-free, dye-free, paraben-free, oil-free — suitable for sensitive skin
- Advanced copolymer peptide delivery system for maximum efficacy
- Immediate optical brightening from Diamond Powder
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture with a dewy, non-greasy finish
- 30ml bottle lasts up to 4 months with daily use
- Pregnancy-safe ingredient profile
- Transparent, education-forward brand — no marketing fluff
Criticized
- Not fungal acne / Malassezia safe (palmitate peptides + Polysorbate 20)
- Premium price point for a 30ml bottle
- Limited availability — primarily direct-to-consumer via brand website
- Individual peptide concentrations not disclosed on label (ranges available via third-party analysis only)
- Menthyl Lactate cooling effect may be unexpected for first-time users
- Results for expression lines require consistent AM use for best effect
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 7 peptides including Matrixyl 3000 and Copper Peptides. Shares the anti-aging multi-peptide strategy but lacks the X50 MYOCEPT expression-line complex and Neodermyl energetic booster. No diamond powder or AHA delivery system. Much more affordable but a simpler formulation.
A well-formulated, science-forward peptide serum with 6 peptides including Matrixyl and Leuphasyl. Shares the transparent brand philosophy and fragrance-free profile. Lacks Neodermyl, diamond powder, and the proprietary delivery system. Excellent value for the price.
Shares the copper peptide approach and science-forward formulation philosophy. Focuses specifically on copper tripeptide-1 at 1% — a different and arguably more potent form of copper peptide than Copper Lysinate/Prolinate. No expression-line peptides. More expensive but highly regarded in skincare communities.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The Phenoxyethanol + Caprylyl Glycol preservative system provides reliable broad-spectrum protection for up to 12 months.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms — consider a bedroom vanity or dedicated skincare fridge to extend shelf life and protect the Resveratrol antioxidant from oxidation.
Pump bottle. The pump dispenses a controlled amount per press, minimizing air exposure and contamination. Keeps formula fresh and reduces oxidation of sensitive actives.
Yes — 30 mL bottle is within the standard 100 mL carry-on liquid limit for air travel. The pump closure makes it spill-resistant and convenient for travel routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Educated Mess Freeze Frame Peptide Serum Concentrate is considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, chemical UV filters, or other ingredients commonly flagged during pregnancy. The formula is built on peptides, humectants (glycerin, sodium hyaluronate), an antioxidant (resveratrol), and a copper amino acid complex — all of which are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding any new skincare product during pregnancy.
No. The Freeze Frame Peptide Serum Concentrate is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains several ingredients with fatty acid chains that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 20 (lauric acid-derived), Heptapeptide-15 Palmitate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-50, and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-52. If you have active fungal acne, look for an FA-safe alternative such as The Ordinary "Buffet" original formula. If you have regular hormonal or comedonal acne without a fungal component, this serum should generally be fine.
Yes — one of the standout formulation achievements of the Freeze Frame Peptide Serum is the stability of its peptide complexes. The brand confirms that the peptides are highly stable even when combined with typically "tricky" ingredients like vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and retinol. For best results: apply exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) or vitamin C first, wait for absorption, then apply the Freeze Frame serum. If using retinol in your PM routine, apply the Freeze Frame serum before or after depending on your other products' instructions — both approaches work.
Freeze Frame works well for most skin types. It is particularly excellent for oily, combination, and mature/aging skin. Dry skin types will love the hydration but should follow with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin types will generally tolerate it well thanks to the fragrance-free, low-allergen formula — though a patch test is recommended. The main caveat is for those with fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), who should avoid this product. Ideal user: anyone 25+ focused on preventative or active anti-aging, firmness, and plumping.
You'll notice the optical brightening from Diamond Powder immediately upon application. Hydration improvements (softer, plumper skin) are typically felt within the first 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Meaningful anti-aging results — improved firmness, smoother texture, and softened fine lines — typically appear at the 4-week mark, with 94% of clinical study subjects reporting the product appears to be working by week 4. The most significant firming, elastin-related results and expression line softening are seen at the 8–12 week mark with consistent daily use.
Apply Freeze Frame after cleansing, toning, and any lighter water-based serums or essences, but before your moisturizer and SPF. The brand recommends using it in the morning because one of the expression-line targeting peptide complexes (X50 MYOCEPT) works best during daytime hours when you're actively making facial expressions. If you want maximum benefits, you can also use it at night for a double dose of firming and collagen-boosting effects. Apply 1–2 pumps, press gently into skin, allow 30 seconds to absorb, then follow with moisturizer.
Freeze Frame has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 — very low risk for clogging pores. The formula is oil-free, and the main film-forming ingredients are Dimethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane (silicones), which are non-comedogenic. There are no heavy waxes, plant oils, or high-comedogenic fatty acids in the formula. Acne-prone users with regular hormonal or comedonal acne should be able to use this comfortably. The only caveat is for Malassezia/fungal acne specifically (see FA question above).
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Freeze Frame is 12 months. In real-world use, verified buyer Ian reported that the 30ml bottle lasted him approximately 4 months using it daily — suggesting you'd need about 3 bottles per year with once-daily use. If you use it twice daily (AM and PM), expect the bottle to last 6–8 weeks. The pump dispenser minimizes air exposure and contamination, helping maintain the formula's stability throughout its shelf life. Store away from direct sunlight and heat to maximize longevity.
Verdict: The Educated Mess Freeze Frame Peptide Serum Concentrate is one of the most thoughtfully formulated multi-peptide anti-aging serums available outside of professional/medical channels. The combination of three distinct peptide systems — each targeting a different mechanism of aging — alongside the Neodermyl energetic booster (rare for stimulating both collagen AND elastin), the advanced copolymer delivery system, and optical diamond powder brightening puts this product in a class above typical multi-peptide serums. It's fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe, compatible with virtually all other actives, and backed by brand-conducted clinical consumer studies showing meaningful results as early as 4 weeks. The primary drawbacks are the premium price for a 30ml bottle, the lack of FA safety, and limited retail availability. For anyone serious about evidence-based, peptide-driven anti-aging skincare, Freeze Frame is a compelling choice that delivers results.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Acetamidoethoxyethanol
Humectant
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2
Absorbent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|