Glow Tonic
Glow Tonic
Product Description
Product overview
The cult-favourite exfoliating toner from Pixi Beauty — formulated with 5% Glycolic Acid, soothing Aloe Vera, energising Panax Ginseng, and a Natural Moisturising Factor complex to gently renew skin, refine pores, and reveal a visibly brighter, smoother complexion. Alcohol-free, paraben-free, and suitable for all skin types.
5% Glycolic Acid Exfoliation
The star AHA ingredient gently loosens the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cellular turnover to reveal smoother, brighter skin beneath — all without physical scrubbing.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5% Glycolic Acid Exfoliation
The star AHA ingredient gently loosens the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cellular turnover to reveal smoother, brighter skin beneath — all without physical scrubbing.
NMF Moisture Complex
Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Dextrin, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, and Aspartic Acid replicate the skin's Natural Moisturising Factor, locking in hydration while the acid works.
Soothing Botanical Blend
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice calms inflammation and redness, while Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) tightens pores and acts as an antioxidant to protect skin from free radical damage.
Energising Ginseng & Horse Chestnut
Panax Ginseng Root Extract improves micro-circulation and energises dull skin, while Aesculus Hippocastanum Seed Extract provides anti-inflammatory and toning benefits.
Alcohol-Free Formula
Unlike many exfoliating toners, Pixi Glow Tonic contains zero drying alcohol (ethanol), making the exfoliation experience gentler, especially for skin new to AHAs.
Skin-Barrier Supportive
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and Biotin work to reinforce and repair the skin barrier, offsetting the potential drying effects of glycolic acid and keeping skin balanced.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGlycolic acid at 5% is generally considered low-risk by most dermatologists as systemic absorption is minimal. However, AHAs are not universally certified safe during pregnancy. Always consult your OB-GYN or midwife before use.
The formula contains no fermented ingredients, problematic fatty acid esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The glycolic acid may actually help by exfoliating the follicular environment where fungal acne thrives.
No known pore-clogging oils are present. PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and PPG-26-Buteth-26 are used at low concentrations as emulsifiers and are not associated with pore-clogging.
Contains zero denatured alcohol or ethanol. Witch Hazel is present as a leaf extract, not the alcohol-based distillate — making this far gentler than traditional astringent toners.
Contains Parfum (fragrance) and several fragrance components including Benzyl Benzoate, Citral, Citronellol, Coumarin, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, and Linalool. Those with fragrance sensitivity or rosacea should patch test first.
Pixi Beauty does not test on animals, nor do they permit suppliers to conduct animal testing on their behalf. The formula contains no animal-derived ingredients.
Glycolic acid increases photosensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ is mandatory when using this product. This applies to both AM and PM use, as increased cell turnover raises UV sensitivity throughout the day.
The pH of 4.0–4.5 is higher than optimal AHA range (3.0–3.5), making exfoliation gentler but also less aggressive. This makes it a good entry-level AHA product but may be insufficient for experienced acid users.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid ~5%Proven
The hero active ingredient and reason millions keep repurchasing this toner. Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane with the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, allowing it to penetrate the skin efficiently to exfoliate dead cells from the surface and promote cellular renewal.
- Mechanism: Breaks down the cohesive bonds between corneocytes (dead skin cells) in the stratum corneum, allowing them to shed naturally and revealing fresher skin beneath.
- Concentration: At 5%, this is an effective daily-use AHA dose. Optimal activity requires pH below 3.5; at pH 4.0–4.5 used here, exfoliation is effective but notably gentler.
- Evidence: Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm glycolic acid reduces fine lines, hyperpigmentation, acne, and improves skin texture with regular use.
- Brightening: Accelerates natural cell turnover, reducing the appearance of dark spots, uneven tone, and post-acne marks over time.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice HighProven
Listed high on the INCI list, indicating a significant concentration. Aloe vera is one of skincare's most studied botanicals, used for over 3,500 years. It provides a dual benefit here: soothing any potential glycolic acid irritation while delivering lightweight hydration.
- Anti-inflammatory: Acemannan and other polysaccharides in aloe vera reduce erythema (redness) and calm reactive skin.
- Humectant: Draws moisture into the skin and creates a lightweight barrier to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Wound healing: Studies show aloe can accelerate healing of minor skin irritation, complementing the exfoliation process.
Hamamelis Virginiana Water (Witch Hazel) ModerateProven
Witch hazel extract (not distillate) is a powerful polyphenol-rich antioxidant that scavenges free radicals, reduces inflammation, and provides mild astringent properties to tighten the appearance of pores. Unlike alcohol-based witch hazel, the leaf extract form used here is far gentler.
- Antioxidant: High tannin content neutralises free radicals and provides protection against UV-induced oxidative stress.
- Astringent: Temporarily tightens pores and reduces excess sebum production without stripping moisture.
- Anti-redness: Studies confirm witch hazel extract reduces erythema and can regenerate skin's Vitamin E stores.
NMF Complex (Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Dextrin, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid) MultiProven
This collection of ingredients mimics the skin's Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF) — the mixture of water-binding compounds found naturally in the stratum corneum. Their inclusion is what sets Pixi Glow Tonic apart from basic AHA toners and prevents post-acid dryness.
- Sugars (Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose): Humectants that attract and hold water in the skin. Preliminary research suggests similar sugars can help balance the skin microbiome.
- Urea: A natural keratolytic and powerful humectant. At low concentrations it hydrates deeply; complements glycolic acid's exfoliation.
- Amino Acids (Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid): Building blocks of skin proteins; provide moisturising, anti-oxidant, and barrier-reinforcing benefits.
Panax Ginseng Root Extract LowPromising
Revered in traditional Asian medicine and increasingly supported by modern dermatology, ginseng extract improves micro-circulation to deliver oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, resulting in a brighter, more energised complexion.
- Circulation: Ginsenosides improve blood flow to the skin surface, contributing to the "glow" this toner is named for.
- Antioxidant: Protects skin cells from environmental damage and oxidative stress.
- Anti-ageing: Some studies show ginseng extracts can stimulate collagen synthesis and reduce signs of photoageing.
Aesculus Hippocastanum Seed Extract (Horse Chestnut) LowPromising
Horse chestnut seed extract, rich in aescin and flavonoids, provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It helps reinforce capillary walls and reduces puffiness, making it particularly beneficial for dull, congested, or tired-looking skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Aescin inhibits inflammatory pathways, reducing skin reactivity.
- Antioxidant: Flavonoids neutralise free radicals and protect against environmental aggressors.
Panthenol & Biotin LowProven
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) is a deeply penetrating humectant and skin-repairing ingredient that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, strengthening the skin barrier and reducing TEWL. Biotin (Vitamin B7) supports cellular metabolism and healthy skin function.
- Panthenol: Clinically proven to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and accelerate barrier repair.
- Biotin: Supports keratinocyte health and overall skin integrity at low concentrations.
37 ingredients
Water, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hamamelis Virginiana Water, Aesculus Hippocastanum Seed Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Dextrin, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Hexyl Nicotinate, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Biotin, Panthenol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Caramel, Benzyl Benzoate, Citral, Citronellol, Coumarin, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Linalool, CI 14700
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on dry skin using a cotton pad. No need to rinse. If using vitamin C in the morning or retinol at night, apply Glow Tonic first and allow 5–10 minutes before the next step. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with a gentle facial cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities. Pat skin dry — applying to damp skin can dilute the product and reduce efficacy.
Saturate a Cotton Pad
Pour a small amount of Glow Tonic onto a clean cotton pad until it is well saturated. Avoid using too little — a properly saturated pad ensures even, streak-free application.
Sweep Across Face, Neck & Décolletage
Using gentle upward strokes, sweep the saturated pad across your face, neck, and décolletage. Avoid the delicate eye area and any broken or actively irritated skin.
Allow to Absorb — Do Not Rinse
Leave the tonic on your skin. There is no need to rinse. Allow 30–60 seconds for full absorption before proceeding to the next step in your routine.
Follow with Serum & Moisturiser
Layer your chosen serum and moisturiser on top. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Begin with once daily (PM recommended for beginners) and build to twice daily as tolerated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to introduce chemical exfoliation gently into your routine
- You have dull, uneven, or congested skin that needs a radiance boost
- You struggle with clogged pores, blackheads, or rough texture
- You're dealing with post-acne hyperpigmentation or dark spots
- You prefer alcohol-free formulas that don't strip the skin
- You want an affordable, dermatologist-endorsed daily AHA toner
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin seeking daily exfoliation
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, sensitised, or rosacea-prone skin prone to fragrance reactions
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You're an experienced AHA user seeking higher-strength exfoliation (10%+)
- You have active eczema, open wounds, or severely compromised skin barrier
- You are allergic to any fragrance components such as Linalool or Limonene
- You consistently skip sunscreen — this product demands daily SPF use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGlycolic acid dissolves excess oil, unclogs pores, and controls sebum over time. The watery, lightweight texture adds zero greasiness. Ideal for daily use AM and PM.
Balances oily T-zones while the NMF complex hydrates drier cheek areas. One of the best skin types to benefit from this toner's dual exfoliation and moisture-locking action.
Provides preventative anti-ageing benefits, brightening, and smoothing with minimal risk of irritation. A great daily maintenance choice for normal skin of all ages.
Suitable for dry skin thanks to the NMF moisturising complex, but start with 2–3 times per week and always follow with a rich moisturiser. The pH 4.0–4.5 reduces irritation risk compared to stronger AHAs.
The fragrance inclusion (Parfum, Linalool, Limonene, etc.) is a concern for reactive or sensitised skin. Start with once or twice weekly use and always patch test first. Those with rosacea should be especially cautious.
Glycolic acid unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, and helps fade post-acne marks. Fungal-acne safe. Non-comedogenic rating of 1/5. An excellent daily exfoliating toner for breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Radiance & Freshness
After the very first application, most users notice skin feels noticeably smoother, cleaner, and refreshed. A subtle healthy glow is visible even before the toner fully absorbs.
85% noticedSmoother Texture & Refined Pores
With consistent use, dead cell buildup diminishes and pores appear smaller. Skin texture becomes visibly smoother and foundation applies more evenly. Some users report a "refreshed" appearance noted by others.
78% noticedBrighter, More Even Complexion
Accelerated cell turnover begins to visibly fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks. Overall skin tone becomes more uniform and luminous. Blackheads reduce noticeably.
72% noticedLong-Term Anti-Ageing & Glow
Sustained glycolic acid use supports collagen activity and further diminishes fine lines around the forehead, eyes, and mouth. Skin looks consistently radiant, healthy, and well-maintained.
65% noticedRatings by platform
17K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Iconic, award-winning formula trusted for 15+ years
- Effective 5% glycolic acid at a wallet-friendly price point
- NMF complex prevents post-acid dryness — skin stays balanced
- Alcohol-free — far gentler than many acid toners
- Suitable for daily use including AM and PM
- Visible brightening and smoothing from the first use
- Cruelty-free and vegan formula
- Widely available at Ulta, Target, Amazon, and the brand website
- Fungal-acne safe with low comedogenic rating
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) — problematic for very sensitive skin
- pH 4.0–4.5 is higher than optimal for maximum AHA efficacy (3.0–3.5)
- May not be potent enough for experienced AHA users
- Witch hazel can be mildly astringent for very dry skin types
- Mandatory SPF requirement adds a step for those who don't already use it
- Red dye (CI 14700) adds no skin benefit — purely cosmetic
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher glycolic acid concentration (7%) at a lower pH (~3.5–4.0), making it more potent but potentially more irritating. No NMF complex or soothing botanicals. More suitable for oily/experienced users. Fragrance-free but contains Grapefruit Extract which can be sensitising. Significantly cheaper.
The closest dupe in terms of formulation — shares the same 5% glycolic acid concentration and ginseng extract. Has 17 ingredients in common with Pixi Glow Tonic. Also cruelty-free and reef safe. Slightly less widely available but highly regarded by the skincare community.
A direct competitor at a significantly higher price point. Contains lactic acid and willow bark alongside AHAs for multi-acid exfoliation. Fragrance-free formula makes it better for sensitive skin. Offers similar brightness and smoothing results. Worth the upgrade for very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol with "12M" on the packaging. Discard if the colour or smell changes noticeably.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid bathroom shelves with high humidity fluctuations. Room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F) is ideal. No refrigeration required.
Screw-top bottle with no pump or dropper. Use a cotton pad or cotton round to dispense. Available in 100ml travel size and 250ml full size. The 250ml format is the best value per ml.
The 100ml / 3.4 fl oz travel size is perfectly compliant with international carry-on liquid rules (under 100ml). The 250ml size must be checked-in. Both sizes are widely available at the brand website and major retailers.
Frequently asked questions
FAQPixi Glow Tonic contains 5% Glycolic Acid, an AHA. Most dermatologists consider low-concentration glycolic acid (under 10%) to be low-risk during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption; however, there is no universally established safe threshold. Additionally, the formula contains fragrance components (Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Coumarin) which some practitioners advise avoiding during pregnancy. Pixi Beauty themselves recommend consulting your physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. We strongly advise the same — your doctor can review the full ingredient list and advise based on your specific medical history.
Yes — Pixi Glow Tonic is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fermented ingredients, esters of fatty acids with 11–24 carbon chains, or polysorbates that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, the glycolic acid content may be mildly beneficial for fungal acne sufferers by exfoliating the follicular environment where the yeast proliferates. The formula is also non-comedogenic (rating 1/5), making it a well-suited option for acne-prone and fungal-acne-prone skin.
Yes, but with care and good layering technique. With Vitamin C: Both are acids, so apply Glow Tonic first, wait 5–10 minutes, then apply your Vitamin C serum. Many find this combination effective for brightening, but sensitive skin may experience irritation — reduce frequency if needed. With Retinol: If you are new to both, use Glow Tonic in the AM and retinol in the PM to avoid over-exfoliation. Experienced users can layer them in the same PM routine (Glow Tonic first, then retinol), always followed by moisturiser. With other AHAs/BHAs: Avoid using multiple exfoliating actives in the same routine — this risks over-exfoliation, barrier damage, and irritation. Alternate days or AM/PM instead.
Pixi Glow Tonic is officially described as suitable for all skin types, and it performs particularly well for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin. The lightweight, alcohol-free watery texture and NMF hydrating complex make it more balanced than many AHA toners. Those with dry skin can use it 2–3 times per week rather than daily. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to the fragrance inclusion — those with rosacea or severe reactive skin may prefer a fragrance-free AHA alternative like the REN Ready Steady Glow Tonic.
Most users notice immediate improvements in smoothness and brightness from the very first use. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use, visible pore refinement and texture smoothing become apparent. Dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne marks typically begin fading after 3–4 weeks of daily use. For more significant anti-ageing benefits (fine line reduction, improved elasticity), allow 2–3 months of consistent use. Results are cumulative — consistency is the key to unlocking the full potential of glycolic acid.
Pixi Glow Tonic is applied immediately after cleansing as the first treatment step — before serums, essences, eye creams, and moisturiser. Cleanse → Glow Tonic → (wait 30–60 seconds) → Essence/Serum → Moisturiser → SPF (AM). It can be used both morning and evening, though beginners are recommended to start with PM use only. No rinsing required — the formula is a leave-on treatment that continues working on the skin after application.
No — Pixi Glow Tonic has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, indicating it is very unlikely to clog pores. In fact, glycolic acid is actively anti-comedogenic — it exfoliates inside pores, breaking down the debris and sebum that form blackheads and congestion. The lightweight, watery texture leaves no occlusive residue. PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and PPG-26-Buteth-26 are used as emulsifiers at low concentrations and are not associated with pore-clogging. This is a highly appropriate toner for acne-prone, blackhead-prone, and congestion-prone skin.
Pixi Glow Tonic has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months, indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. With daily use (AM and PM), the 250ml bottle typically lasts approximately 3–4 months. The 100ml travel size lasts approximately 1–2 months with daily use. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Discard if you notice any significant change in colour, consistency, or scent before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic is one of the most enduring and well-deserved cult products in modern skincare. Its combination of5% Glycolic Acid, an extensiveNMF moisture complex, soothingAloe Vera, and energisingPanax Ginseng creates a uniquely balanced AHA toner — one that exfoliates effectively without stripping the skin bare. At a price point well below most comparable acid toners and with over 15 years of proven results, this is an outstanding entry point into chemical exfoliation for most skin types. Points are deducted only for the fragrance inclusion (Parfum and several fragrance allergens), which limits it for truly sensitive or reactive skin, and the slightly higher pH (4.0–4.5) that makes it less potent than clinical-grade AHAs. For everyone else — especially oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin — Pixi Glow Tonic remains one of the smartest buys in skincare.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|