Future Formula
Future Formula
Product Description
The Agency Future Formula Rx is a personalized, prescription-strength multi-active cream formulated with up to four dermatologist-selected actives β including tretinoin, azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide β precisely dosed for your unique skin concerns. Prescribed by a licensed dermatology provider after a virtual consultation, this vegan, fragrance-free nightly treatment targets fine lines, acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture in a single, elegantly crafted formula.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Personalized by a Derm Provider
Your formula is prescribed by a licensed dermatology professional after reviewing your selfies and skin goals β not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Prescription-Strength Tretinoin
Contains actual tretinoin (retinoic acid) β the gold-standard retinoid β which works immediately on skin, unlike OTC retinol that requires multi-step conversion.
Multi-Target Formula
Tackles fine lines, acne, dark spots, and uneven texture simultaneously with four synergistic actives in one nightly cream.
Clean & Skin-Responsible
Vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe, fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free. All formulas undergo dermatological testing for safety.
Progressive Potency
Your dermatology provider adjusts active ingredient concentrations over time as your skin builds tolerance and achieves optimal results.
Allure Best of Beauty Winner
Recognized with a 2021 Allure Best of Beauty Breakthrough Award for innovation in personalized prescription skincare.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains tretinoin (a retinoid), which is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use if pregnant or nursing.
The inactive base formula does not contain known Malassezia-feeding fatty acids, ferments, or polysorbates. Considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin types.
The base uses caprylic/capric triglyceride (rating 1-2) and aloe vera. No pore-clogging oils. Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
Initial dryness, redness, flaking, and sensitivity (the "retinol purge") is common during weeks 1β4. Start on alternating nights and always apply SPF 30+ the next morning.
No added fragrances, essential oils, or colorants. Reduces risk of sensitization and irritation, making it appropriate for reactive and sensitive skin types.
Tretinoin increases photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable while using this formula. Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
No animal-derived ingredients and never tested on animals. All Agency formulas are certified reef-safe and environmentally responsible.
This is a prescription product available exclusively through withagency.com after a virtual consultation with a licensed dermatology provider. Not available OTC.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
β‘ Tretinoin 0.025%β0.1% Gold Standard
Tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) is the most clinically validated retinoid available. Unlike retinol, it does not require enzymatic conversion β it binds directly to retinoic acid receptors in skin cells, triggering accelerated cell turnover, collagen synthesis, and comedone clearance. It is FDA-approved for both acne and photoaging.
- Anti-aging: Clinically proven to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and UV-induced photodamage by increasing collagen and glycosaminoglycan production.
- Acne: Normalizes follicular keratinization, unclogs pores, and reduces sebum-driven comedone formation.
- Pigmentation: Accelerates epidermal turnover, dispersing melanin deposits and fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Mechanism: Binds RAR (retinoic acid receptor) alpha and gamma β directly active, unlike retinol which converts through retinal.
πΎ Azelaic Acid 5%β20% Proven
Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in wheat, rye, and barley. In skincare, it is synthesized for stability and potency. It is both FDA-approved (at 15β20%) for rosacea and widely used off-label for acne and hyperpigmentation. Unlike AHAs, it does not increase photosensitivity, making it uniquely daytime-compatible.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, reducing melanin synthesis and fading dark spots and melasma.
- Anti-acne: Kills P. acnes bacteria and reduces keratin buildup in follicles, preventing new comedones.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms reactive skin β particularly beneficial for rosacea and PIH.
- Safe profile: Does not cause photosensitivity. Well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types.
πΈ Tranexamic Acid 3%β5% Proven
Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic lysine analog originally used medically as an antifibrinolytic agent. In skincare, it has emerged as one of the most effective brightening ingredients for stubborn pigmentation and melasma, acting through a different pathway than vitamin C or hydroquinone β making it compatible with sensitive skin.
- Pigmentation: Inhibits UV-induced plasminogen activator in keratinocytes, blocking the signal that triggers melanin overproduction.
- Melasma: Multiple clinical trials show 3β5% topical TXA reduces melasma severity scores comparably to hydroquinone without the irritation risk.
- Complementary action: Works synergistically with niacinamide and azelaic acid for a multi-pathway approach to brightening.
β¨ Niacinamide 4%β10% Proven
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is one of the most versatile and well-researched skincare actives. It operates through multiple mechanisms simultaneously: reducing pore appearance, strengthening the skin barrier, fading dark spots, regulating sebum, and providing antioxidant protection β all while being exceptionally gentle.
- Barrier: Stimulates ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis, reinforcing the epidermal moisture barrier and reducing TEWL.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, reducing visible dark spots over 4β8 weeks.
- Pore appearance: Reduces the look of enlarged pores by improving skin texture and elasticity.
- Sebum regulation: Shown in studies to reduce sebum production by up to 23% at 2% concentration.
πΏ Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Base Soothing
Aloe vera juice forms a calming, hydrating base for the formula. Rich in polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and antioxidants, aloe helps counteract the potential irritation from tretinoin while delivering lightweight moisture and anti-inflammatory benefits to sensitized skin.
- Soothing: Polysaccharides and aloesin reduce redness and inflammation associated with retinoid adjustment.
- Hydration: Humectant properties draw moisture to the skin surface without heaviness or greasiness.
π‘οΈ Tocopheryl Acetate Base Antioxidant
A stable ester form of vitamin E, tocopheryl acetate provides antioxidant defense by neutralizing free radicals. It also serves as a skin-conditioning and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to buffer any irritation from the active ingredients and improve skin softness and resilience.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes lipid peroxidation and UV-generated free radicals, protecting cellular membranes.
- Conditioning: Improves skin texture, suppleness, and barrier integrity when used alongside retinoids.
π§ Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Base Emollient
A lightweight emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin via fractionation. It creates a non-greasy, silky skin feel and acts as a carrier for active ingredients, enhancing penetration. With a comedogenic rating of 1β2, it is well-suited for oily and acne-prone skin.
- Emollience: Fills in micro-cracks in the skin surface, smoothing texture without occluding pores.
- Stability: Highly oxidative-stable carrier that helps preserve the integrity of tretinoin in the formula.
13 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Tretinoin, Azelaic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide
Inactive Base Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Water, Laureth-7, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Tocopheryl Acetate, Triethylene Glycol
Note: Formulas containing tretinoin also include the stabilizing antioxidant Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT). Formulas containing both niacinamide and azelaic acid also contain Propylene Glycol.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use PM only on clean, dry skin. Wait 20β30 minutes after cleansing before applying. Follow with a fragrance-free moisturizer to minimize dryness. Always apply SPF 30+ the next morning.
π How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat dry and wait 20β30 minutes for skin to fully dry β applying tretinoin on damp skin increases absorption and potential irritation.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount (approximately 0.3β0.5g) and gently smooth over your face using your fingertips. Avoid eye contour, nostrils, and corners of the mouth.
Start Slowly β Alternate Nights
Beginners should start with every other night (or every third night for sensitive skin) for the first 2β4 weeks before moving to nightly use. This minimizes the retinization adjustment period.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer after the formula absorbs. For extra comfort, try the "sandwich" technique: moisturizer before and after the formula during your first weeks.
Sunscreen Every Morning β No Exceptions
Tretinoin increases photosensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning without fail. This is critical for both safety and optimizing your results.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have fine lines, wrinkles, or signs of premature aging
- You deal with recurring acne, clogged pores, or post-acne marks
- You have hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or melasma
- You want OTC-beating results with dermatologist oversight
- You prefer a single multi-action formula over multiple serums
- You're committed to a consistent, long-term skincare routine
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin (eczema, rosacea flares) β consult your derm first
- You cannot commit to daily SPF application
- You are not a US resident (service currently US-only)
- You prefer a one-time purchase without a subscription
- You want immediate results β this formula requires 8β12 weeks to show full benefit
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Tretinoin + azelaic acid directly address sebum overproduction and comedone formation. Lightweight base won't add shine. Ideal for oily and breakout-prone skin.
Balances oily zones while niacinamide and aloe support drier areas. Formula absorbs cleanly without greasiness in the T-zone.
Effective but retinization may feel more intense. Use the "sandwich" moisturizer technique and start on alternate nights. Adjust concentration with your derm as needed.
Fragrance-free, dye-free formula is gentler than many Rx tretinoin creams. Your derm can start you on lower concentrations and ramp up progressively.
Tretinoin is the most clinically proven ingredient for reducing wrinkles and reversing photoaging. Ideal as a cornerstone of any mature skin anti-aging routine.
The triple brightening action of tretinoin + azelaic acid + tranexamic acid makes this ideal for dark spots, melasma, PIH, and uneven skin tone β across all skin tones.
π Results Timeline
Adjustment Period ("Retinization")
Skin may experience increased dryness, flaking, redness, and slight purging as cell turnover accelerates. This is normal and expected. Start on alternate nights and moisturize generously.
85% of new users experience some adjustmentTexture Improvement & Early Brightening
Skin texture begins to smooth and refine as tretinoin increases cellular turnover. Early reduction in minor dark spots and improved skin clarity. Breakouts start declining.
~70% notice smoother texture by week 6Visible Reduction in Fine Lines & Spots
Meaningful reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, post-acne marks, and hyperpigmentation. Skin tone becomes noticeably more even. Pores appear tighter. Breakouts significantly reduced.
~65% see significant improvement in 3 monthsLong-Term Skin Transformation
Collagen remodeling and continued cellular turnover yield dramatically improved skin density, firmness, and radiance. Long-term tretinoin use has the strongest evidence base of any topical anti-aging ingredient.
~80% of consistent users report significant long-term improvementβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Prescription-strength tretinoin with derm oversight at an accessible price
- Personalized formula tailored to your specific skin goals
- Multi-active synergy (4 actives in one product)
- Allure Best of Beauty Breakthrough Award winner
- Vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free
- Progressive potency adjustment as skin builds tolerance
- Absorbs quickly without greasy residue
- Strong results reported within 3 months of consistent use
β Criticized
- Requires a subscription β no one-time purchase option
- US-only service; not available internationally
- Adjustment/purging period can last 4β6 weeks
- Daily SPF is mandatory, adding an extra step
- Formula customization means results vary significantly between users
- Some customer service and billing complaints reported
- Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Curology is Agency's sister brand β also a personalized prescription service. Formulas include tretinoin and complementary actives. The main difference: Agency's base formula includes tranexamic acid as a fourth brightening active, while Curology may substitute other actives. Both require a subscription.
A fraction of the cost, but contains OTC retinol β not prescription tretinoin. Retinol must convert through multiple enzymatic steps before becoming active, making it significantly less potent. No personalization, no azelaic acid or tranexamic acid, and no derm oversight. Good starting point for first-time retinoid users.
Similar prescription personalization model with tretinoin. Musely tends to include a wider variety of actives (hydroquinone, kojic acid) and focuses more on brightening. Does not include tranexamic acid by default. More expensive than Agency and a heavier cream texture reported by users.
π Comparison with Competitors
The Agency Future Formula Rx β Featured
$30.00/moCurology Custom Formula
$29.95/moMusely The Face Cream
$49.99/moApostrophe Custom Tretinoin
~$45.00/moπ¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Tretinoin formulas are sensitive to oxidation β use within this timeframe for full potency. Agency ships every 60 days to ensure freshness.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep below 25Β°C (77Β°F). Exposure to light and heat degrades tretinoin β do not store in humid bathrooms.
Opaque tube packaging that minimizes light and air exposure, helping protect the stability of tretinoin and other actives. Dispensed via a sealed crimp tube with cap.
Compact tube size is TSA-compliant for carry-on travel (under 100ml). Note: as a prescription product, carry documentation when traveling internationally.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Future Formula contains tretinoin, a prescription retinoid that is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Systemic retinoids are known teratogens, and while topical use results in minimal systemic absorption, they are still avoided as a precaution. The brand itself states on its website that "tretinoin is not for use during your pregnancy journey." If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, discontinue use and consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist for pregnancy-safe alternatives such as azelaic acid-only or niacinamide-based products.
Yes. The Agency Future Formula is considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The inactive base formula does not contain known Malassezia-feeding ingredients such as fatty acids with carbon chain lengths of C11βC24, esters, ferments, or polysorbates. The formula is also free from oils that are high in oleic or linoleic acid. The base uses caprylic/capric triglyceride (derived from coconut oil, but fractionated to a shorter chain length) which is generally considered safe for Malassezia-prone skin. Additionally, azelaic acid in the formula has some antifungal properties.
Use with caution. Since the Future Formula already contains prescription-strength tretinoin (the strongest retinoid), there is no need to layer additional retinol β doing so will increase irritation without added benefit. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and AHAs/BHAs can be used in your AM routine alongside your evening Future Formula, but avoid applying them the same night as your tretinoin to prevent over-exfoliation and barrier compromise. Niacinamide (already in the formula) and hyaluronic acid are safe to use alongside it at any time. Always consult your Agency dermatology provider before introducing new active ingredients to your routine.
The Future Formula is most suited to oily, combination, acne-prone, hyperpigmented, and mature skin types dealing with fine lines, dark spots, and uneven texture. Because the formula is personalized β your dermatology provider can adjust active concentrations β it can be adapted for dry and sensitive skin types as well, with lower starting concentrations and gradual potency increases. It is not recommended for currently inflamed or compromised skin barriers, open wounds, or eczema/psoriasis flare-ups without dermatological guidance.
Results vary based on your specific formula, skin type, and consistency, but here is a general timeline: Weeks 1β4 are typically an adjustment period with possible dryness or purging. By weeks 4β8, most users notice smoother texture, more even skin tone, and early reduction in breakouts. By months 3β6, significant improvements in fine lines, dark spots, and acne scars become visible. Full collagen remodeling benefits become most apparent after 6β12 months of consistent use. Clinical studies on tretinoin show statistically significant improvements in wrinkle depth and skin tone at 12 weeks, with continued improvement through 6+ months.
The Future Formula should be applied in the PM only, as the third step in your routine: after cleansing and toning (if you use a toner), but before moisturizer and eye cream. Apply on clean, dry skin β wait 20β30 minutes after washing for best tolerance and absorption. Always follow with a fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration and minimize retinoid-associated dryness. The next morning, apply SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step of your AM routine β this is essential with tretinoin use.
No. The Future Formula has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5, making it extremely unlikely to clog pores. The inactive base uses caprylic/capric triglyceride (comedogenic rating: 1), aloe vera (rating: 0), and water-based emulsifiers rather than heavy occlusive oils. Tretinoin and azelaic acid actively work to unclog pores, normalize follicular keratinization, and prevent new comedone formation β the opposite of pore-clogging. This formula is widely used by acne-prone individuals specifically because it addresses pore congestion at its root.
The Future Formula has a recommended Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Since a pea-sized amount is used nightly, one tube typically lasts approximately 60 days β which aligns with Agency's standard 60-day subscription refill cycle. To maximize shelf life: store in a cool, dark location away from heat and humidity (avoid the bathroom), keep the cap tightly closed after each use, and do not expose the formula to direct sunlight. Tretinoin is particularly susceptible to degradation from light and heat, so storage conditions significantly affect potency.
Verdict: The Agency Future Formula Rx is one of the most scientifically robust personalized skincare offerings on the market. By combining prescription-strength tretinoin with azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide in a single dermatologist-prescribed, fragrance-free cream, it offers a comprehensive multi-target approach to acne, aging, and hyperpigmentation that no OTC product can match. The personalized dosing, Allure-award-winning formulation, clean ingredient profile (vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe), and accessible $30/month price point make it exceptional value for a legitimate Rx treatment. The only meaningful drawbacks are the US-only subscription requirement and the standard 4β6 week tretinoin adjustment period. For anyone serious about transformative, evidence-based skincare results under dermatological guidance, the Future Formula is a standout choice.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Tranexamic Acid
Astringent, Skin Conditioning
|
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|