Gentle Peeling Exfoliant
Gentle Peeling Exfoliant
Product Description
Product overview
A bestselling, budget-friendly physical peeling exfoliant by e.l.f. Cosmetics that uses Microcrystalline Cellulose to gently roll away dead skin cells without harsh chemicals. Enriched with papaya leaf extract, tangerine fruit extract, and licorice root (Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate) to brighten, soothe, and prep skin for better absorption of subsequent skincare. Beloved for its satisfying peel-off texture at an accessible price point.
Physical Peeling Action
Microcrystalline Cellulose forms micro-beads that physically roll away dead skin cells when massaged, revealing smoother skin beneath — no chemical acids needed.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPhysical Peeling Action
Microcrystalline Cellulose forms micro-beads that physically roll away dead skin cells when massaged, revealing smoother skin beneath — no chemical acids needed.
Tangerine & Papaya Extracts
Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract and Carica Papaya Leaf Extract provide antioxidant and mild brightening benefits, complementing the mechanical exfoliation.
Licorice Root Soothing
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (licorice root derivative) helps calm post-exfoliation redness, supports barrier function, and may contribute to a more even skin tone.
Dual Humectant Hydration
Glycerin and Butylene Glycol work together to attract and retain moisture, leaving skin feeling hydrated and balanced rather than stripped after exfoliation.
100% Vegan & Cruelty-Free
Double-certified by both Leaping Bunny and PETA. No animal-derived ingredients, no animal testing — anywhere in the world.
Accessible Luxury Price
Award-winning exfoliation at an everyday price point, making consistent exfoliation accessible without compromising on ingredient quality or brand ethics.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are considered compatible with pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal medical advice.
Free from ferments, fungal-acne-triggering fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and problematic oils. The formula does not feed Malassezia yeast, making it suitable for fungal-acne-prone skin.
No known pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Key ingredients like Propylene Glycol and Glycerin are non-comedogenic. This is a rinse-off product, further reducing the risk of clogged pores.
e.l.f. Cosmetics formulates all products free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, nonylphenol ethoxylates, triclosan, triclocarban, and hydroquinone.
Includes Parfum and associated fragrance components (Benzyl Salicylate, Linalool, Limonene on some versions). Those with fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin should patch-test before full use.
Uses Microcrystalline Cellulose beads for mechanical exfoliation. Unlike AHAs/BHAs, it does not increase photosensitivity, making it suitable for AM or PM use — though SPF during the day is always recommended.
Can generally be layered with Vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid in the same routine. Avoid using on the same day as strong AHA/BHA chemical exfoliants to prevent over-exfoliation.
While the physical exfoliation is gentle, those with compromised, inflamed, or rosacea-prone skin should use with care and limit to once per week initially to gauge skin's tolerance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60–70%Base
The primary base of the formula. Purified water serves as the universal solvent and carrier for all other active and functional ingredients, ensuring even distribution and a fluid, spreadable texture.
- Function: Solvent, carrier, humectant base
- Safety: The gold standard of cosmetic safety — universally tolerated
Propylene Glycol ~5–10%Proven
A multifunctional humectant and solvent that draws moisture to the skin, enhances the texture of the formula, and improves the penetration and delivery of other ingredients into the skin's upper layers.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, skin-conditioning agent
- Safety: Approved and well-studied; safe at cosmetic concentrations up to ~50%
Microcrystalline Cellulose ~5–8%Proven
This is the hero exfoliant in this formula. Plant-derived cellulose particles form gentle micro-beads that physically slough off dead skin cells when massaged across the face. It's a biodegradable alternative to plastic microbeads, forming the signature "peel" texture that users love. The ultra-fine version also acts as a soft-focus mattifying agent.
- Function: Physical exfoliant, mattifying agent, texture enhancer
- Origin: Derived from plant cellulose (wood pulp); fully biodegradable
- Mechanism: Mechanical abrasion removes dead corneocytes from the skin surface
Quaternium-60 ~1–3%Proven
A quaternary ammonium compound that functions as a conditioning agent and emulsifier. It helps bind the formula together, improves texture, and provides a soft, smooth feel on the skin. It also has mild antimicrobial properties that support formula preservation.
- Function: Emulsifier, skin-conditioning agent, viscosity modifier
- Safety: Approved for cosmetic use; considered safe at standard concentrations
Glycerin ~2.1–3.2%Proven
One of the most well-researched and effective humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws water from the deeper dermis and surrounding environment to hydrate the outermost skin layers, prevents trans-epidermal water loss, and supports the skin barrier. This counterbalances any drying effect of exfoliation.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning, barrier support
- Concentration: Estimated 2.1–3.2% based on INCI position analysis
- Research: Extensively studied; effective hydration proven in multiple clinical trials
Butylene Glycol ~1–3%Proven
A lightweight humectant and solvent that hydrates skin, improves product spreadability, and enhances ingredient absorption. Pairs synergistically with glycerin for an effective dual-humectant hydration system.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, absorption enhancer
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and well-tolerated across skin types
Carbomer ~0.5–1%Proven
A thickening and gelling agent that creates the product's creamy, gel-like consistency. While not an active skincare ingredient, it plays a critical role in the texture, stability, and sensory experience of the formula, making it easy to apply and massage in.
- Function: Rheology modifier, thickener, gelling agent
- Safety: Widely used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals; generally non-irritating
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate ~0.85–1.3%Proven
A potassium salt derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). This is a standout active ingredient that provides anti-inflammatory benefits, helps soothe post-exfoliation redness, softens the skin surface, and may contribute to brightening uneven skin tone. Research has shown it can help improve atopic dermatitis-like conditions by calming inflammatory pathways.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, skin-brightening, emollient, barrier support
- Concentration: Estimated 0.85–1.30% based on INCI position
- Research: Studies show ameliorating effect on IL-4/IL-13-induced inflammatory skin models
Carica Papaya Leaf Extract ~0.1–0.5%Promising
Derived from the papaya plant, this extract is rich in antioxidants and has historically been associated with mild enzymatic activity that may support skin renewal. While the leaf extract (rather than fruit extract) has less papain enzyme than the fruit, it provides antioxidant protection and brightening benefits.
- Function: Antioxidant, brightening, skin-conditioning
- Note: Leaf extract differs from fruit extract; enzymatic activity is less pronounced
Citrus Reticulata Fruit Extract (Tangerine) ~0.1–0.5%Promising
Tangerine fruit extract is rich in Vitamin C and flavonoids, delivering antioxidant protection against environmental stressors and contributing to a brightening effect. It also provides the product's pleasant light citrus scent naturally.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin-brightening, toning
- Key components: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), flavonoids, limonene
Caprylyl Glycol ~0.3–0.5%Proven
A multifunctional ingredient used both as a skin-conditioning agent and a preservation booster. When combined with Phenoxyethanol, it forms the popular "Optiphen" preservative system that keeps the product microbiologically safe while also improving skin feel.
- Function: Skin-conditioning, humectant, preservation booster
- Pairing: Works synergistically with Phenoxyethanol as the Optiphen system
Phenoxyethanol ~0.5–1%Proven
A widely-used, well-studied preservative that protects the formula from bacterial and fungal contamination throughout its shelf life. It is paraben-free and considered a safer preservative alternative. Used at up to 1% concentration globally per cosmetic regulations.
- Function: Preservative, antimicrobial
- Safety: Approved worldwide; introduced circa 1950; found naturally in green tea
Ethylhexylglycerin ~0.1–0.3%Proven
A multitasking ingredient that functions as a skin-conditioning agent and a preservation booster, enhancing the efficacy of the overall preservative system. It also has mild antimicrobial properties and improves skin feel.
- Function: Skin-conditioning, preservative booster, antimicrobial
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-comedogenic; widely used in clean beauty formulations
Parfum (Fragrance) traceCaution
A fragrance blend that gives the product its characteristic light citrus scent. Some formulations additionally list individual fragrance components including Benzyl Salicylate, Linalool, Limonene, and Hexamethylindanopyran. While generally safe for most users, fragrance is one of the most common causes of contact dermatitis in cosmetics.
- Function: Fragrance, masking agent
- Note: Not suitable for extremely fragrance-sensitive individuals
14 ingredients · As listed on product and confirmed via EWG Skin Deep & e.l.f. official website:
Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Quaternium-60, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Leaf Extract, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Parfum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to dry face as your cleansing/exfoliation step, 2–3 times per week. Rinse thoroughly before applying toner and subsequent skincare for best absorption.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with a Dry Face
Apply to dry skin — this is key! The peeling action works best on dry skin before wetting. Remove heavy makeup first with a micellar water or cleansing oil if needed.
Dispense a Small Amount
Squeeze a pea- to dime-sized amount of the creamy gel formula onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way — you don't need much for the entire face.
Massage in Circular Motions
Gently massage the product over your face (avoiding the eye and lip area) in small circular motions. You will begin to see the Microcrystalline Cellulose beads rolling up with dead skin — this is normal and part of the process.
Rinse with Warm Water
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing — your skin has just been exfoliated and will be more sensitive.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always follow with a hydrating moisturizer to seal in moisture and support the skin barrier. Your skin will be primed to absorb subsequent products more effectively after exfoliation.
Use 2–3 Times Per Week
Start with once or twice a week and work up to 2–3 sessions per week. Over-exfoliating can compromise the skin barrier, so listen to your skin and adjust frequency accordingly.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want gentle, non-acid-based exfoliation
- You're new to exfoliants and want something low-risk
- You have dry, flaky, dull skin that needs regular resurfacing
- You're sensitive to chemical exfoliants like AHA or BHA
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want a safe option
- You enjoy the tactile, satisfying "peel" experience
- You're on a budget and want an affordable, effective product
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You need deep pore-clearing exfoliation (consider a BHA like salicylic acid)
- You want intensive anti-aging resurfacing (consider a clinical-strength AHA)
- You have active, inflamed, or cystic acne
- You have very reactive, rosacea-prone skin highly sensitive to fragrance
- You prefer chemical (acid-based) exfoliation methods
- You need significant texture correction or hyperpigmentation treatment
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRemoves excess dead skin buildup and surface congestion. Lightweight formula doesn't add grease. The Microcrystalline Cellulose provides a mild mattifying effect, and the rinse-off nature ensures no heavy residue.
This exfoliant was practically made for dry skin — it targets the dead flaky skin cells that make dry skin look dull. Glycerin and Butylene Glycol help hydrate during use. Always follow with a rich moisturizer.
Addresses both dry patches and oily zones effectively without over-stripping. The gentle physical formula is ideal for combination skin where chemical exfoliants might be too harsh in dry areas.
Generally well-tolerated thanks to Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate's soothing properties. However, the presence of Parfum means those with fragrance sensitivity should patch test first. Start with once-weekly use.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and fungal-acne safe. Removes surface buildup that can contribute to breakouts. Avoid using on active, inflamed pimples or open acne lesions to prevent further irritation.
A great maintenance exfoliant that keeps skin smooth, bright, and prepped for better absorption of other skincare. 2–3 times per week is ideal for maintaining that healthy glow.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Smoothness & Brightening
Most users report noticeably softer, smoother skin texture immediately after rinsing. Dullness is visibly reduced as the layer of dead skin is removed, revealing fresher skin underneath. The rolling sensation during massage is satisfying and confirms the exfoliation is working.
~85% noticed immediate smoothnessBrighter, More Even Tone
With 2–3 uses per week, skin begins to look more radiant and even-toned. The combination of exfoliation plus the Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate and botanical extracts starts to address minor dullness and uneven texture. Skincare products applied afterward absorb more effectively.
~70% noticed improved radianceImproved Skin Texture & Clarity
Regular exfoliation clears minor surface congestion and keeps skin fresh. Users report that their skin feels consistently smoother to the touch and appears healthier overall. The licorice extract may start showing mild brightening effects on minor discoloration.
~60% saw texture improvementSustained Glow & Better Product Absorption
Long-term consistent use maintains a healthy skin surface by regularly clearing dead cell buildup. Serums, moisturizers, and treatments applied after exfoliation penetrate more effectively, enhancing the overall performance of your skincare routine. Skin maintains a healthier baseline.
~75% maintained routine useRatings by platform
18K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable (~$10–$13) for the quality delivered
- Immediate visible and tactile results — skin smoother after first use
- Satisfying peel-ball texture that users find enjoyable
- 100% Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Leaping Bunny certified
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe (no retinoids or acid exfoliants)
- Fungal acne safe — no problematic ferments or fatty esters
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin with regular use
- Allure Best of Beauty Award winner
- Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and hydroquinone
- Biodegradable exfoliant (no plastic microbeads)
- Fair Trade Certified manufacturing facility
Criticized
- Contains Parfum — not ideal for extremely fragrance-sensitive skin
- Physical exfoliation is less targeted than chemical AHA/BHA exfoliants
- Not effective for deep pore cleansing or treating blackheads
- The "peel balls" are largely the formula balling up, not purely dead skin
- Some users report nozzle or packaging quality issues
- Results are subtle — those seeking dramatic resurfacing may be disappointed
- Needs to be used on dry skin which some find inconvenient in a routine
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHighly similar physical peeling exfoliant format using Microcrystalline Cellulose (plant stem cell-based). Very comparable exfoliation experience with the same ball-up texture. Slightly pricier but beloved by fans of the same exfoliation style. Both fragrance-inclusive formulas.
A Korean-beauty peeling gel that combines physical exfoliation (cellulose-based) with mild volcanic ash for pore-refining benefits. Slightly more texture-focused, and ideal for those who also want pore care. Different aesthetic but same format. Fragrance may differ.
A more traditional physical scrub using sea kelp and French green clay at a similar price point. Doesn't have the same rolling-ball texture but offers comparable surface exfoliation with clean, vegan-certified ingredients. Good for fans of physical exfoliants who prefer a scrub format.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar PAO symbol (12M) on the packaging. Discard if the texture, scent, or color changes noticeably.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in steamy bathrooms if possible, as heat and humidity can degrade the preservative system over time.
Squeeze tube with nozzle applicator. Tube packaging limits air exposure and helps preserve formula integrity. Ensure the cap is tightly closed after each use.
Yes — at 90 ml / 3.04 fl oz the full-size bottle exceeds airline carry-on limits (100 ml). However, e.l.f. also offers a Mini size (15–30 ml) which is ideal for travel and TSA-compliant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters — all ingredients of concern during pregnancy. It uses Microcrystalline Cellulose for physical (not chemical) exfoliation, which is gentle and non-systemic. The formula is also free from parabens and phthalates. As always, we recommend consulting your OB/GYN or midwife before introducing any new skincare products during pregnancy for personalized medical advice.
Yes — the e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant is considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula is free from fermented ingredients, Malassezia-feeding fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and problematic oils that can trigger fungal acne flare-ups. The main exfoliant (Microcrystalline Cellulose) is an inert plant-based particle that does not feed yeast. The humectants and preservatives used (Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol) are well-established as safe for fungal-acne-prone skin.
You can use this product alongside Vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid in your routine — these are all compatible. However, avoid combining this physical exfoliant with chemical exfoliants (AHAs like glycolic acid, or BHAs like salicylic acid) in the same session, as double-exfoliation can over-strip and compromise the skin barrier. If you use retinol in your routine, use this exfoliant on different days rather than the same day to avoid cumulative irritation. A good general rule: no more than one exfoliation method per skincare session.
The e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant is labeled as suitable for all skin types and performs particularly well for dry, dull, and combination skin where surface dead-cell buildup is most visible. Oily skin types also benefit from its light mattifying effect and surface-clearing action. Sensitive skin users generally tolerate it well, though the presence of Parfum means a patch test is recommended for very reactive skin. It is also fungal-acne safe and pregnancy safe, making it one of the most accessible exfoliant options for a wide range of users.
Most users notice immediate results after the very first use — skin feels noticeably smoother and looks more radiant right after rinsing. For more significant improvements in skin tone, texture, and overall clarity, consistent use 2–3 times per week over 3–4 weeks is recommended. The licorice root extract (Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate) contributes to brightening over time. Unlike chemical exfoliants that require weeks to rebuild new cell layers, the physical peeling action delivers visible surface-level results immediately, making this one of the most instantly gratifying exfoliants available.
This product is used as your exfoliation/cleansing step. Apply it to dry skin at the start of your routine (after removing makeup if needed), massage in circular motions, then rinse. After rinsing and patting dry, follow with your toner, serums, moisturizer, and SPF (if AM). It is best used 2–3 times per week rather than daily. Because it is a rinse-off product with physical (not chemical) exfoliants, it can be used in both AM and PM routines — though many prefer it in their evening routine.
No — the e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula contains no known pore-clogging oils, heavy waxes, or high-comedogenic ingredients. Key ingredients like Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, and Butylene Glycol are non-comedogenic. Additionally, because this is a rinse-off exfoliant, it does not remain on the skin and cannot accumulate in pores. In fact, the exfoliating action of Microcrystalline Cellulose helps clear the surface of dead cells that can contribute to blocked pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for the e.l.f. Gentle Peeling Exfoliant is 12 months. The Optiphen preservative system (Phenoxyethanol + Caprylyl Glycol) along with Ethylhexylglycerin ensures microbiological stability throughout this period. Look for the open-jar PAO symbol on the packaging indicating "12M." Store away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain potency. Discard if you notice changes in color, scent, or texture before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Cosmetics Gentle Peeling Exfoliant is a standout overachiever in the budget skincare space. For just $10–$13, you get an Allure Best of Beauty award-winning physical exfoliant that delivers immediate visible results — softer, brighter, fresher skin from the first use. The minimal 14-ingredient formula is pregnancy safe, fungal-acne safe, low comedogenic (1/5), vegan, cruelty-free, and free from all major problematic cosmetic ingredients. The Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate from licorice root provides genuine soothing and brightening support beyond mere exfoliation. Its main limitation is that it's a surface-level physical exfoliant — for deep pore clearing, anti-aging resurfacing, or hyperpigmentation treatment, you'd need a targeted chemical exfoliant. But as an accessible, satisfying, and skin-kind everyday exfoliant, it's genuinely difficult to beat at this price. A fantastic starting point for anyone new to exfoliation or seeking a gentle, safe option.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Slip Modifier, Viscosity Increasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|