Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser
Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
Korea's viral 3-in-1 artisan cleanser — hand-kneaded 7,200 times and low-temperature fermented for 72 hours. One silky mochi scoop removes makeup, gently exfoliates with rice powder, and clears pores without stripping your skin's moisture barrier. Clinically tested to improve 7 visible skin factors, including blackhead reduction, pore refinement, and smoother texture.
3-in-1 Multitasker
Works as a daily cleanser, mild physical exfoliator, and a wash-off clay mask — all in one jar. Skip double cleansing on most days.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3-in-1 Multitasker
Works as a daily cleanser, mild physical exfoliator, and a wash-off clay mask — all in one jar. Skip double cleansing on most days.
72-Hour Fermentation Process
Low-temperature fermentation preserves the vitamins and minerals in every botanical ingredient without damaging them with heat.
Kneaded 7,200 Times by Hand
Traditional artisan kneading creates the signature stretchy mochi texture and enhances the bioavailability of each extract in the formula.
Clinically Proven Results
Independently tested by the Korean Institute of Dermatological Sciences to improve 7 skin factors — including 11% blackhead reduction and 12% moisture boost.
No Distilled Water — Pure Botanical Base
Water is replaced by 30+ plant extracts including rice water, green tea, centella asiatica, and witch hazel, maximising every drop of formula.
Ultra-Gentle Surfactant Trio
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, and Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate — all coconut-derived, biodegradable, and rated among the mildest cleansing agents available.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, the formula contains Fragrance (Parfum) and Hexyl Cinnamal, which are potential sensitisers. Consult your OB or midwife before use during pregnancy.
Contains Coconut Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, and Olive Oil — known Malassezia triggers in leave-on products. However, as a rinse-off cleanser, contact time is brief and community consensus rates the risk as very low. At least one verified reviewer specifically noted no fungal acne flares.
The formula is dominated by rinse-off surfactants with a very short skin-contact time. Key oils (jojoba, sunflower) score 0–2. Practically non-comedogenic for a cleanser.
Hypoallergenic tested and non-irritation tested by Arencia. No harsh alcohols, SLS, SLES, parabens, or silicones. Those with extreme fragrance sensitivity should patch test first.
As a cleanser, it is fully compatible with all actives. Wash it off completely before applying any leave-on treatments. No interactions to worry about.
All ingredients are plant-derived or synthetically produced. No animal-derived components. Arencia does not conduct animal testing.
The formula includes Fragrance and Hexyl Cinnamal. Those with a confirmed fragrance allergy or contact dermatitis should patch test or choose a fragrance-free alternative.
No pore-clogging ingredients in a rinse-off format. Contains anti-bacterial tea tree extract and pore-clarifying witch hazel and kaolin clay. Clinically tested for acne and blemish improvement.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSOryza Sativa (Rice) Powder Top 10Proven
The star ingredient. Finely milled rice powder provides gentle physical micro-exfoliation while simultaneously depositing brightening antioxidants (Vitamin E, ferulic acid) onto the skin surface. Used in Korean beauty rituals for centuries, it polishes away dead skin cells and absorbs excess sebum without the micro-tears associated with coarser physical scrubs.
- Function: Mild physical exfoliant, sebum absorber, skin brightener
- Antioxidants: Rich in Vitamin E (tocopherol) and ferulic acid — both proven free-radical scavengers
- Clinical result: Contributes to 6.8% improvement in skin texture per Arencia's clinical study
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — completely non-comedogenic
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract Top 15Proven
A North American botanical powerhouse loaded with hamamelitannins, catechins, and gallic acid. Witch hazel acts as an astringent to temporarily tighten pore appearance, a vasoconstrictor to reduce redness, and an antioxidant to protect against environmental stress. Its antibacterial properties make it particularly effective for acne-prone and oily skin types.
- Functions: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, vasoconstrictor
- Key actives: Hamamelitannin, gallic acid, catechins, proanthocyanidins
- Research: Studies show witch hazel reduces sebum production by up to 25% in oily skin types
- Pore benefit: Temporarily reduces visible pore size by tightening skin proteins
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Powder + Extract Top 20Proven
Green tea appears twice in this formula — as both a finely milled powder (contributing gentle physical exfoliation) and as a liquid extract (delivering EGCG and other catechins). This dual format maximises antioxidant delivery, soothes inflammation, and provides mild UV-damage mitigation alongside the cleansing process.
- Key active: EGCG (Epigallocatechin-3-gallate) — most studied tea polyphenol
- Functions: Antioxidant, soothing, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, mild sebum regulation
- Research: EGCG has been shown to reduce sebum production in oily skin and inhibit inflammatory pathways linked to acne (Journal of Investigative Dermatology)
Centella Asiatica Extract Trace–LowProven
A K-beauty superstar known as "tiger grass." Centella provides madecassoside and asiaticoside compounds that accelerate wound healing, strengthen the skin barrier, calm redness, and reduce post-breakout scarring. It is one of the most clinically validated soothing botanicals in modern skincare.
- Key actives: Madecassoside, asiaticoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid
- Functions: Barrier repair, wound healing, soothing, collagen synthesis support
- Research: Clinically shown to improve skin barrier integrity and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) Primary SurfactantProven
The primary cleansing agent in this formula. SCI is derived from coconut oil and is classified as one of the mildest surfactants available in cosmetic formulation. It produces a rich, creamy lather without disrupting the skin's acid mantle or stripping natural ceramides — making it ideal for daily use even on sensitive and compromised skin types.
- Origin: Coconut oil-derived, biodegradable
- pH compatibility: Works optimally between pH 5.5–7.5 — skin-friendly range
- Advantage: Does not cause the "squeaky clean" stripping sensation of SLS-based cleansers
- Fungal acne: Not shown to feed Malassezia yeast in studies
Sodium Hyaluronate LowProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid — smaller molecules than standard HA, enabling deeper penetration into the skin's upper layers. While present in a rinse-off formula, it temporarily boosts surface hydration during cleansing and contributes to the non-drying "just-washed" feeling reviewers frequently praise.
- Function: Humectant — attracts and holds up to 1,000x its weight in water
- Penetration: Sodium salt form (lower molecular weight) penetrates epidermis more effectively than high-MW HA
- Clinical result: Contributes to the 12% increase in skin moisture noted in Arencia's clinical data
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract TraceProven
A globally recognised antibacterial and antimicrobial extract. Tea tree's active terpinen-4-ol inhibits the growth of Cutibacterium acnes (the acne-causing bacterium) without causing the dryness or irritation associated with benzoyl peroxide at therapeutic concentrations. Its presence reinforces the formula's acne-fighting position.
- Key active: Terpinen-4-ol — primary antimicrobial compound
- Function: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal
- Research: Meta-analysis (JAMA Dermatology, 2013) confirms tea tree extract reduces acne lesion count by ~34% vs placebo
Kaolin Clay Top 15Proven
A fine white clay that acts as the "mask" component of this 3-in-1 formula. Kaolin adsorbs excess sebum and surface impurities from pore openings without over-drying the skin. Unlike bentonite clay, kaolin is considered suitable for normal to sensitive skin types due to its gentler absorption profile.
- Function: Sebum adsorption, pore decongestion, mild exfoliation
- Advantage over bentonite: Less aggressive oil absorption — preserves some skin moisture
- Application tip: Allow to sit 3–5 minutes on dry skin to fully activate the clay cleansing benefit
41 ingredients — No distilled water; the aqueous base is replaced by botanical extracts.
Glycerin, Water, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Seed Meal, 1,2-Hexanediol, Coconut Acid, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Cellulose, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder, Sodium Isethionate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Propanediol, Sodium Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Dextrin, Fragrance, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Butylene Glycol, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Dipropylene Glycol, Lupinus Albus Seed Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Adansonia Digitata Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 2 (second cleanse) for a full double-cleanse, or alone as a single cleanse on light-makeup days. For a deeper clean, leave on for 3–5 minutes as a clarifying mask before rinsing.
How to use
HOW TO USEScoop a Small Amount
Use the included spatula to scoop a small, coin-sized amount (roughly 0.5–1g). A little goes a long way — start with less than you think you need. The 120g jar typically lasts 2–3 months with daily use.
Lather with Water in Your Palms
Add a few drops of water and rub your palms together to activate the mochi texture. It will transform into a soft, pillowy foam. Add more water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
Massage Gently onto Skin
Apply to damp face and massage in gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on oily areas, pores, and areas with blackheads. Avoid the eye contour and lip area.
Rinse Thoroughly with Lukewarm Water
Rinse completely with lukewarm (not hot) water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with your toner or essence while skin is slightly damp.
Optional: Clay Mask Mode
For a deeper cleanse 2–3 times per week, apply a thin layer to dry skin. Leave on for 3–5 minutes. Wet your hands and massage in circular motions before rinsing. This activates the kaolin clay and maximises blackhead removal.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads and congested pores
- You want to skip or reduce double cleansing
- You're looking for a gentle everyday exfoliating cleanser
- You love the ritual feel of Korean artisan beauty products
- You want a cleanser that also works as a weekly face mask
- You prioritise botanical, natural-derived formulas
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a confirmed fragrance allergy or contact dermatitis
- You require a strictly fragrance-free formula
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs a cream cleanser
- You are strictly fungal-acne-safe and concerned about Coconut Acid or Olive Oil
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid all fragranced products
- You prefer a pump or tube format for hygiene reasons
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPurpose-built for oily skin. Rice powder, witch hazel, kaolin clay, and green tea synergistically control sebum, decongest pores, and reduce shine — without the tight, stripped feeling that harsh cleansers cause.
Balances well across facial zones — effectively cleanses the T-zone without over-drying drier cheek areas. The glycerin base ensures hydration is maintained across the entire face.
Clinically tested for visible blackhead and blemish improvement. Tea tree extract, witch hazel, and kaolin clay target congestion at the source, while centella asiatica and sodium hyaluronate support healing and the barrier.
Hypoallergenic tested and free from sulfates, parabens, and harsh alcohols. However, the presence of fragrance means those with very reactive or contact-dermatitis-prone skin should patch test before full use.
The formula is gentle enough but the exfoliating action and mild astringency from witch hazel may not suit very dry or chronically dehydrated skin. Follow immediately with a hydrating toner and a rich moisturiser. Some dry-skinned reviewers find it works better as a 2–3x weekly treatment than a daily cleanser.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Softness & Brightness
Most users report noticeably softer, smoother skin texture after just one use. The rice powder physical exfoliation buffs away surface dead cells immediately, revealing a brighter, cleaner complexion.
~85% noticed immediate texture improvementVisible Blackhead Reduction
With daily use, pore congestion begins to visibly clear. The combination of kaolin clay, witch hazel, and gentle physical exfoliation loosens sebaceous filaments and superficial blackheads. Clinical data supports an 11% reduction in blackhead count within the first few weeks.
~70% noticed pore improvement within 1 weekSkin Texture & Tone Evening
Continued use refines skin texture (clinical: 6.8% improvement), reduces roughness, and begins to even skin tone. Green tea antioxidants and rice brighteners contribute to a more luminous complexion. Skincare product absorption is enhanced as the skin surface is consistently kept clear.
~65% reported improved skin texture and toneSustained Clarity & Hydration Balance
Long-term users report a sustained improvement in skin clarity, reduced frequency of breakouts, and a stable moisture balance. Centella asiatica supports ongoing barrier repair. Skin microbiome health improves from the botanical-rich, non-stripping cleanse.
~78% report continued improvement at 2 monthsRatings by platform
931+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Unique, satisfying mochi texture makes cleansing enjoyable
- Genuinely effective at removing blackheads and congestion
- Leaves skin soft, not stripped — even daily users love it
- 3-in-1 versatility: cleanser, exfoliator, and clay mask
- 120g jar lasts 2–3 months — great value per use
- Clinically tested — not just marketing claims
- 30+ botanicals with real functional benefit
- No harsh alcohols, SLS, SLES, parabens, or silicones
Criticized
- Contains fragrance — not suitable for confirmed fragrance-allergic skin
- Colour and texture may vary batch to batch (natural ingredients)
- 50g travel size is expensive per gram vs the 120g
- Not ideal for very dry or dehydrated skin as a daily cleanser
- Jar packaging requires a spatula — less hygienic than pump
- Contains Coconut Acid & Olive Oil — strict FA followers should be aware
- Some found exfoliation too mild for severe blackhead buildup
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Fragrance-free foam cleanser with botanical extracts and gentle amino-acid surfactants. Maintains skin pH and provides a similar non-stripping, post-wash softness. Lacks the physical exfoliation component of the rice powder and does not double as a clay mask, but is a strong choice for fragrance-sensitive skin.
A K-beauty cult classic with a pH-balanced gel formula and tea tree oil. Very affordable and gentle, but lacks the physical exfoliation, clay mask functionality, or the breadth of botanical extracts found in the Arencia. Better for minimal-ingredient enthusiasts or those on a tight budget.
A Western botanicals-forward foaming cleanser with a whipped texture. Contains green tea, spinach, and papaya enzyme. Lacks the rice powder exfoliation and mochi sensory experience, and does not double as a clay mask. Comparable price point with a different sensory profile.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Note: colour may gradually shift over time — this is normal for naturally derived formulas without artificial colorants. The change does not affect efficacy or safety.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high heat. Avoid leaving in a steamy bathroom if possible — the botanicals are best preserved at consistent, moderate temperatures. Refrigerating is optional but can preserve freshness.
Wide-mouth glass-like jar with a spatula included. Jar format is designed to be repurposed after the cleanser is finished — aligned with Arencia's eco-friendly philosophy. Always use the spatula to maintain hygiene.
The 50g (1.76oz) size is under 100ml and fully compliant with international carry-on liquid restrictions. The 120g jar exceeds airline limits and must be packed in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters — the main ingredients typically restricted during pregnancy. However, it does contain Fragrance (Parfum) and Hexyl Cinnamal, which are potential sensitisers. While using it as a rinse-off product greatly reduces any systemic absorption risk, we always recommend consulting your OB-GYN or midwife before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you prefer a completely fragrance-free alternative during this period, consider the beplain Mung Bean Cleansing Foam or Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser.
The formula contains Coconut Acid (a fatty acid), Glyceryl Stearate, and Olive Fruit Oil — ingredients that can theoretically feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne in leave-on products. However, as a rinse-off cleanser, contact time is brief (30–60 seconds to 5 minutes maximum), which dramatically reduces any real-world risk. At least one verified iHerb reviewer with fungal-acne-prone skin specifically noted no flares after use. The K-beauty community broadly considers this product as low-risk for fungal acne in its rinse-off form. Strict fungal-acne followers who prefer zero risk should choose a cleanser without fatty acids or plant oils.
Absolutely yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, it is fully compatible with all actives — retinoids, Vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. It is used before any leave-on products, so there is zero interaction risk. In fact, regular gentle exfoliation from the rice powder may actually improve the penetration and efficacy of your subsequent active treatments by keeping the surface of the skin clear. Always rinse the cleanser completely before applying your actives.
It performs best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — the target demographic the formula was clinically tested against. Its sebum-regulating actives (witch hazel, kaolin, green tea), physical exfoliation (rice powder, almond seed meal), and antibacterial components (tea tree) all work synergistically for these skin types. It can work well for normal and mildly sensitive skin, though patch testing is recommended. For very dry or chronically dehydrated skin, the exfoliation and clay components may be too active for daily use — in that case, limiting use to 2–3 times per week is advisable.
Many users notice softer, smoother skin texture from the very first use due to the rice powder physical exfoliation. Visible blackhead reduction and pore improvement are typically reported within the first 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. According to Arencia's independent clinical study conducted by the Korean Institute of Dermatological Sciences, measurable improvements in skin texture (6.8%), moisture (12%), and blackhead count (11%) were documented. More comprehensive results — including sustained clarity, reduced breakout frequency, and improved skincare absorption — are typically noticeable after 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use.
This cleanser belongs at Step 2 of your routine — after an optional oil-based first cleanse (if double cleansing) and before all leave-on products including toner, essence, serum, moisturiser, and SPF. For morning routines, it can be used as your sole cleanse step. For evening routines after wearing makeup or SPF, you may want to precede it with a cleansing oil or balm for a true double cleanse, though many reviewers find it removes light makeup on its own effectively.
It is rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale — effectively non-comedogenic. The key oils present (jojoba, sunflower) score 0–2 individually, and the formula's dominant ingredients are rinse-off surfactants rather than leave-on emollients. In fact, the formula is designed to decongest pores through kaolin clay, witch hazel, and physical exfoliation rather than clog them. Arencia's clinical testing confirms pore decongestion as one of the 7 measurable skin improvements. The rinse-off nature of the formula means even the higher-rated oils (olive oil, coconut acid) do not remain on skin long enough to cause comedone formation in most users.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 120g jar typically lasts 2–3 months with daily use when proper product amounts are used (coin-sized scoop). A common mistake is using too much — the mochi texture lathers significantly, so a small amount goes a long way. Always use the included spatula rather than fingers to prevent contamination. Store in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving in a hot or steamy bathroom to maximise shelf life. Note that slight colour changes in the cleanser are normal and expected — the natural botanical ingredients oxidise gently over time without affecting product safety or efficacy.
Verdict: The Arencia Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser earns its viral status by delivering genuine, clinically supported results through a uniquely crafted artisan formula. The 72-hour fermented, 7,200-times hand-kneaded mochi cleanser is one of the most versatile and effective daily cleansers in the K-beauty market — functioning as a cleanser, exfoliator, and clay mask in a single jar. The 30+ botanical formula, gentle coconut-derived surfactants, and independent clinical testing set it apart from most competitors at the price point. It earns its highest marks for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types who will see measurable improvements in blackheads, pore appearance, and skin texture within weeks. The only meaningful caveats are the presence of fragrance (limiting it for the most sensitive users) and moderate suitability for very dry skin. At approximately $19–$23 for a 120g jar that lasts 2–3 months, the cost-per-use is genuinely competitive. A well-deserved addition to any targeted pore-care or anti-congestion skincare routine.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal
Abrasive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Hair Conditioning
|
|