Glow Serum (Vitamin C + Niacinamide + Arbutin + HA + Ferulic Acid)
Glow Serum (Vitamin C + Niacinamide + Arbutin + HA + Ferulic Acid)
Product Description
Product overview
A brightening powerhouse serum by Soul Apothecary that combines five clinically-studied actives — 8% Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), 3% Niacinamide, 1% Alpha-Arbutin, 1% Sodium Hyaluronate, and 0.5% Ferulic Acid — to visibly fade dark spots, defend against free radicals, deeply hydrate, and promote a luminous, even complexion. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and free from fragrance, parabens, and silicones.
Brightens & Fades Dark Spots
8% L-Ascorbic Acid combined with 1% Alpha-Arbutin and 3% Niacinamide creates a triple-action brightening effect that targets hyperpigmentation from multiple angles simultaneously.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBrightens & Fades Dark Spots
8% L-Ascorbic Acid combined with 1% Alpha-Arbutin and 3% Niacinamide creates a triple-action brightening effect that targets hyperpigmentation from multiple angles simultaneously.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
The synergistic trio of Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid (0.5%), and Niacinamide provides superior free-radical defense. Ferulic Acid stabilizes Vitamin C and doubles its photoprotective benefits.
Deep Hydration & Plumping
Sodium Hyaluronate (1%) penetrates deeply to attract and retain moisture, visibly plumping fine lines and keeping skin supple throughout the day.
Clean, Minimal Formula
Only 14 ingredients — no fillers, no fragrance, no silicones, no parabens. Every ingredient serves a purpose, making this a focused, results-driven serum suitable for even sensitive skin.
Science-Backed Concentrations
Active levels are disclosed on the label — rare for a budget-friendly brand. Formulated at evidence-based concentrations shown effective in peer-reviewed clinical studies.
Multi-Concern Formula
Simultaneously addresses brightening, anti-aging, hydration, pore refinement, and barrier support — replacing the need for multiple single-active serums in your routine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, or chemical sunscreens. All actives — Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Arbutin, Hyaluronic Acid, Ferulic Acid — are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your OB-GYN before starting new skincare.
Confirmed free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The formula is listed on Soul Apothecary's Malassezia Safe collection and verified by multiple ingredient-checking platforms.
No comedogenic oils in the formula. Glycerin (rating 0) and Butylene Glycol (rating 0/1) are humectants that do not clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, EU allergen-free, alcohol-free. Low irritation potential. However, L-Ascorbic Acid at 8% may cause slight tingling on very reactive skin — patch test recommended.
Using L-Ascorbic Acid at low pH alongside retinol may cause irritation. Use Vitamin C in the AM and retinol in the PM, or on alternating nights, to avoid over-sensitization.
Combining with exfoliating acids in the same routine step may increase irritation risk. If using AHAs or BHAs, apply them in your PM routine and the Glow Serum in your AM routine.
Vitamin C is a daytime antioxidant that works synergistically with sunscreen. Always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning for best results and to protect treated skin.
L-Ascorbic Acid can oxidize and turn orange/brown when exposed to light, air, or heat. The tinted bottle helps protect stability. Store properly and discard if color changes significantly.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSL-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 8%Proven
The gold-standard form of Vitamin C and the most biologically active. At 8%, this concentration is clinically effective for brightening, antioxidant protection, and collagen stimulation without excessive irritation. It's the most studied topical antioxidant in dermatology.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin synthesis, fading dark spots and evening skin tone with consistent use.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals from UV radiation and pollution to prevent photoaging and collagen breakdown.
- Collagen synthesis: Clinically proven to stimulate collagen production at concentrations of 5–20%, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Stability: Stabilized by Ferulic Acid (0.5%) in this formula, which has been shown to double its photoprotective ability.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 3%Proven
One of the most versatile and well-researched skincare actives available. At 3%, Niacinamide effectively supports the skin barrier, reduces redness, and helps fade discoloration. It's water-soluble, stable, and compatible with nearly all other skincare ingredients.
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide synthesis, strengthening the skin's moisture barrier and improving overall skin health.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer between melanocytes and keratinocytes, reducing the appearance of dark spots.
- Anti-inflammatory: Shown to reduce redness and inflammation in conditions like acne and rosacea.
- Pore refinement: Regular use at 2–5% concentration has been shown to visibly minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
Alpha-Arbutin 1%Proven
Derived from the bearberry plant, Alpha-Arbutin is a stable and gentle skin-brightening agent. It targets the second step of melanin production by inhibiting the activity (not synthesis) of the tyrosinase enzyme, working synergistically with Vitamin C for comprehensive depigmentation.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase activity to slow melanin formation — complementary to Vitamin C which inhibits tyrosinase synthesis.
- Efficacy: More effective than Beta-Arbutin and considered safer than hydroquinone for long-term use.
- Gentle: Low irritation profile; suitable for sensitive skin types. Well-tolerated in clinical studies.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) 1%Proven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid with a smaller molecular weight that penetrates deeper into the skin compared to standard HA. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, providing intense, lasting hydration and visibly plumping fine lines.
- Humectant: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, maintaining optimal hydration levels.
- Penetration: Smaller molecular size than HA allows deeper penetration into the dermis for more effective moisturization.
- Plumping: Fills in fine lines and improves skin elasticity with consistent use, giving a visibly younger appearance.
Ferulic Acid 0.5%Proven
A plant-derived phenolic antioxidant naturally found in the bran of oats, rice, and wheat. At 0.5%, Ferulic Acid plays a critical dual role: it stabilizes the unstable L-Ascorbic Acid formula and independently provides antioxidant and UV-protective benefits.
- Vitamin C stabilizer: A landmark 2005 study found 0.5% Ferulic Acid doubles the photoprotection of a 15% Vitamin C + 1% Vitamin E solution and prevents Vitamin C oxidation.
- Antioxidant: Independently scavenges free radicals, protecting against UV-induced skin damage and premature aging.
- Synergy: The combination of Vit C + Ferulic Acid is considered the gold standard antioxidant pairing in modern cosmetic science.
Glycerin ~5–8%Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Naturally present in skin, Glycerin attracts and retains moisture in the upper layers of skin, supporting the formula's hydrating effects alongside Sodium Hyaluronate.
- Humectant: A 2016 study found Glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and Hyaluronic Acid in certain formulations.
- Barrier function: Helps restore and maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Skin-identical: Naturally occurring in skin, making it exceptionally well-tolerated across all skin types.
14 ingredients
Water, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Arbutin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Ferulic Acid, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, toned skin before moisturizer. Use AM and/or PM. Always follow with SPF 30+ in the morning. Avoid mixing with AHAs/BHAs or retinol in the same routine step.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat skin dry — leave slightly damp for enhanced absorption of the serum's humectants.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a toner or essence, apply first and allow it to fully absorb before proceeding. A hydrating, pH-balanced toner pairs especially well with this serum.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Pump or drop 2–3 drops of the Glow Serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way — avoid using too much to prevent pilling under moisturizer.
Press & Pat onto Skin
Gently press and pat the serum onto face and neck. Avoid rubbing vigorously. Focus on areas with dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines for targeted results.
Allow to Absorb (30–60 seconds)
Wait for the serum to fully absorb before layering your moisturizer. The lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue.
Seal with Moisturizer + SPF
Lock in the serum with your favorite moisturizer. In the AM, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect treated skin and maximize the antioxidant benefits of Vitamin C.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or uneven skin tone
- You want an affordable, multi-benefit brightening serum
- You prefer a clean, minimal ingredient list
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want safe actives
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) and need FA-safe options
- You want antioxidant protection to use alongside SPF
- You're new to Vitamin C and want an approachable concentration
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a higher Vitamin C concentration (15–20%) for advanced photoaging
- Your skin is extremely sensitive or reactive to L-Ascorbic Acid
- You're looking for a richer, emollient serum for very dry skin
- You need a retinol-based anti-aging formula for deep wrinkles
- You prefer vitamin C derivatives (MAP, AA2G) for ultra-sensitive skin
- You want a formula with added Vitamin E for extra antioxidant layering
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel-serum texture absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production with continued use.
Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate provide solid hydration, but very dry skin types may want to layer with a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top.
Balances beautifully across different facial zones — hydrates dry areas without overloading the T-zone. An ideal choice for combination skin types.
Fragrance-free and EU allergen-free formula reduces irritation risk. Patch test recommended — 8% L-Ascorbic Acid may cause initial tingling on very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and free from pore-clogging ingredients. Niacinamide helps reduce blemishes while Vitamin C fades post-acne marks.
Vitamin C stimulates collagen, Hyaluronic Acid plumps fine lines, and antioxidants defend against further photoaging. Pair with a richer moisturizer for drier mature skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Instant Hydration & Glow
Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin begin hydrating the skin immediately. Most users notice a dewy, more radiant complexion within the first few applications as the humectants draw moisture to the surface.
~90% noticedSmoother Texture & Reduced Redness
Niacinamide begins showing its barrier-strengthening and anti-inflammatory effects. Skin texture becomes visibly smoother and redness or minor irritation starts to diminish with regular use.
~75% noticedVisible Brightening & Dark Spot Fading
The Vitamin C + Arbutin + Niacinamide triple-action brightening complex starts delivering visible results. Existing dark spots begin to fade and overall skin tone appears more even and luminous.
~65% noticedSignificant Hyperpigmentation Reduction
With consistent AM + PM use and daily SPF, significant improvement in hyperpigmentation, post-acne marks, and overall skin clarity is achievable. Collagen-stimulating effects of Vitamin C contribute to firmer-looking skin.
~55% noticedRatings by platform
350+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Disclosed active concentrations on label (rare for budget brand)
- Multi-benefit formula targets brightening, hydration & anti-aging at once
- Clean 14-ingredient list — no unnecessary fillers
- Fungal acne safe and pregnancy safe
- Ferulic Acid stabilizes Vitamin C for better shelf stability
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture with no greasy residue
- Affordable price point vs. similar formulas from premium brands
- Tinted bottle protects Vitamin C from light degradation
Criticized
- L-Ascorbic Acid may cause initial tingling on very sensitive skin
- 8% Vitamin C may be insufficient for severe sun damage (higher % needed)
- Smaller sizes (15ml, 30ml) frequently sell out
- Limited retail availability — mainly direct website and select platforms
- L-Ascorbic Acid is inherently unstable and can oxidize over time
- Niacinamide at 3% is on the lower end of optimal (4–5% is ideal)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Matches on Vitamin C concentration (8%) and includes higher Alpha-Arbutin (2% vs 1%). Lacks Ferulic Acid as stabilizer and does not include Niacinamide. More targeted formula but less multi-benefit.
Contains 15% Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid + Vitamin E — the gold-standard antioxidant trio. Higher Vit C concentration with similar Ferulic Acid stabilization. More expensive but may be more effective for advanced photoaging cases.
Contains 20% L-Ascorbic Acid with Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E — ideal for those wanting a stronger Vitamin C dose. Does not include Niacinamide or Arbutin. Can be more irritating due to higher active concentration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESoul Apothecary Glow Serum
Skinceuticals C E Ferulic
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use consistently for best results and check for color change (orange/brown tint indicates Vitamin C oxidation).
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration is optional but can extend Vitamin C stability and freshness.
Tinted/opaque dropper or pump bottle (varies by size) designed to protect light-sensitive L-Ascorbic Acid from UV degradation and oxidation.
Yes — all sizes (15ml, 30ml, 50ml) are under the 100ml TSA/carry-on liquid limit. The 15ml size is especially convenient for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Soul Apothecary Glow Serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, no hydroquinone, no salicylic acid, and no chemical UV filters. All five key actives — Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), Niacinamide, Alpha-Arbutin, Sodium Hyaluronate, and Ferulic Acid — have favorable safety profiles for pregnant and nursing individuals. The brand also lists this product in its Pregnancy Safe collection. That said, we always recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing new skincare during pregnancy.
Yes — the Soul Apothecary Glow Serum is confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fermented ingredients, no fatty acids, no esters, and no polysorbates that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. It is verified safe by multiple ingredient analysis platforms including SkinSort and is listed in Soul Apothecary's own Malassezia Safe product collection. This makes it a great choice for those dealing with fungal acne or who are prone to breakouts triggered by fungal-feeding ingredients.
You can use all of these actives in your routine, but it's best to avoid combining them in the same routine step. The Glow Serum's L-Ascorbic Acid works at a low pH that can conflict with retinol and exfoliating acids when applied together, increasing the risk of irritation. The recommended approach: use the Glow Serum in your AM routine with SPF, and save retinol or AHAs/BHAs for your PM routine. Alternatively, alternate evenings between the two. Niacinamide in the formula is highly compatible with all these actives.
The Glow Serum is suitable for all skin types, but performs particularly well for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin thanks to its lightweight, fast-absorbing gel-serum texture and non-comedogenic formula. It also works well for normal skin seeking brightening and antioxidant protection. Dry skin types will benefit from the hydrating Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin, though pairing with a richer moisturizer is recommended. Sensitive skin users should patch test first due to the 8% L-Ascorbic Acid, which can cause mild initial tingling.
Results vary by skin concern: hydration improvements and a radiant glow are often noticeable within the first 1–2 weeks. Smoother texture and reduced redness (from Niacinamide) typically become apparent around weeks 3–4. Visible brightening and fading of dark spots usually takes 6–8 weeks of consistent daily use. Significant hyperpigmentation reduction and improved skin clarity generally requires 3 months or more. For best results, use AM and PM and always follow with SPF 30+ in the morning — sunscreen is essential to protect against new pigmentation forming.
The Soul Apothecary Glow Serum is a thin, water-based serum and should be applied after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer and sunscreen. Morning routine: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Glow Serum → Moisturizer → SPF 30+. Evening routine: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Glow Serum → Moisturizer (or facial oil on top). The general layering rule is thinnest to thickest — serums go before creams and oils. Do not apply over or under exfoliating acids or retinol in the same routine step.
No — the Glow Serum has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it is non-comedogenic and highly unlikely to clog pores. The formula contains no oils, waxes, or high-rated comedogenic ingredients. The humectants used (Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate) are all rated 0–1 on the comedogenicity scale. Niacinamide (3%) in the formula actively helps regulate sebum and reduce pore appearance with continued use. It is safe for acne-prone skin and is verified fungal acne safe as well.
The Soul Apothecary Glow Serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat to preserve stability — especially the light-sensitive L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C). The tinted bottle is designed to protect the formula from UV degradation. If the serum turns a noticeably orange or dark brown color, this indicates Vitamin C oxidation and the product should be replaced, as oxidized Vitamin C is less effective. Refrigeration is optional but can help extend freshness.
Verdict: The Soul Apothecary Glow Serum is an impressive, science-informed brightening serum from the Philippines that punches far above its price point. By combining five clinically-proven actives — 8% L-Ascorbic Acid, 3% Niacinamide, 1% Alpha-Arbutin, 1% Sodium Hyaluronate, and 0.5% Ferulic Acid — in a clean 14-ingredient formula, it delivers multi-benefit results that typically require multiple separate serums. The fact that active concentrations are disclosed on the label is a rare and commendable transparency for a brand at this price tier. It earns extra points for being confirmed pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free. The only caveats are that the Vitamin C at 8% and Niacinamide at 3% sit on the conservative end of optimal for advanced concerns, and L-Ascorbic Acid requires proper storage to maintain stability. For anyone seeking an effective, accessible, and well-formulated brightening serum — especially for oily, combination, acne-prone, or FA-sensitive skin — the Soul Apothecary Glow Serum is a standout recommendation.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Arbutin
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant, Bleaching
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|