Glycolic Acid Face Wash
Glycolic Acid Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective daily exfoliating face wash by Matte Beauty, formulated with 3% Glycolic Acid to dissolve dead skin cell buildup, unclog pores, and reveal a brighter, smoother complexion — enriched with Burdock Root, Rosehip, Panthenol, and Allantoin for balanced, soothed skin after every cleanse.
3% Glycolic Acid Exfoliation
Scientifically validated concentration that gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cellular turnover without over-stripping the skin barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3% Glycolic Acid Exfoliation
Scientifically validated concentration that gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cellular turnover without over-stripping the skin barrier.
Burdock Root Anti-Bacterial Defense
Arctium Lappa Root Extract delivers anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and sebum-regulating properties — ideal for acne-prone and oily skin types needing extra pore control.
Rosehip Bioflavonoid Brightening
Sodium Rosehipsamphoacetate provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support while helping counteract the effects of UV exposure and environmental stress on the skin.
Panthenol + Allantoin Barrier Support
Pro-Vitamin B5 and Allantoin work in tandem to soothe, hydrate, and accelerate skin cell renewal — preventing the dryness commonly associated with AHA cleansers.
Collagen Stimulation Over Time
Regular use of glycolic acid at an effective pH has been shown in peer-reviewed research to stimulate fibroblast activity and boost collagen production for firmer skin.
Professional-Grade Formula, Budget Price
At $10 for a focused 5-ingredient formula, Matte Beauty delivers targeted AHA exfoliation without the cost of department store alternatives — clean, simple, effective.
Safety & compatibility
SAFELow-concentration glycolic acid (3%) in a rinse-off formula is generally considered lower risk, but guidelines recommend consulting your OB/GYN before using any AHA during pregnancy. Avoid high-concentration AHA leave-on products while pregnant.
This formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia. All 5 ingredients are considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
None of the five ingredients in this formula have a meaningful pore-clogging risk. Glycolic acid itself actually helps clear pores by exfoliating within them, making this suitable for acne-prone skin.
AHAs including glycolic acid increase photosensitivity by removing the outermost protective skin layer. Daily SPF 30+ is non-negotiable when using this product, even in winter.
At 3%, this is one of the gentler AHA concentrations available. The inclusion of Allantoin and Panthenol further buffers against irritation. Rosacea and very reactive skin types should patch test first.
Do not use in the same routine as strong retinoids or high-concentration vitamin C. Alternate AHA use to morning or evening — not both. Space at least 20–30 minutes from other actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 3%Proven
The smallest-molecule AHA derived from sugar cane, Glycolic Acid works by breaking the intercellular bonds that hold dead skin cells to the surface, accelerating the natural shedding process. At 3%, this formula provides effective daily exfoliation without compromising the skin barrier. It is the most researched AHA in dermatology, with decades of clinical evidence supporting its efficacy for texture improvement, brightening, and anti-aging.
- Exfoliation: Disrupts desmosomes (cellular "glue") in the stratum corneum, allowing dead cells to shed and reveal fresher skin below.
- Collagen Stimulation: Peer-reviewed studies confirm glycolic acid activates fibroblasts to produce more Type I and Type III collagen over time.
- Hydration Boost: Stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production in the dermis, improving moisture retention long-term.
- Brightening: Reduces hyperpigmentation by removing the upper layers where melanin is concentrated, and may inhibit tyrosinase activity.
- Optimal pH: Most effective between pH 3–4 for maximum free-acid activity with tolerable skin impact.
Arctium Lappa Root Extract (Burdock Root) SupportingProven
Burdock Root is a well-established botanical used in both traditional medicine and modern cosmetics for its broad-spectrum skin benefits. Rich in inulin, essential oils, and tannins, it is particularly valued for its ability to regulate sebum output and fight the bacteria associated with acne and skin infections.
- Anti-bacterial & Antiseptic: Active compounds in burdock root have documented inhibitory effects against acne-causing bacteria including C. acnes.
- Anti-inflammatory: Arctiin and other lignans in the root reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, calming redness and irritation.
- Sebum Regulation: Shown in studies to reduce excessive oiliness — beneficial for greasy, large-pore, and acne-prone skin.
- Antioxidant Protection: Quercetin and luteolin provide antioxidant defense against environmental stressors.
Sodium Rosehipsamphoacetate (Rosehip) SupportingProven
Derived from rosehips, this ingredient delivers antioxidant-rich bioflavonoids to the skin. Rosehips are naturally high in Vitamin C precursors, polyphenols, and carotenoids, which collectively help combat oxidative stress and the long-term effects of sun exposure. It also possesses mild anti-inflammatory properties that complement the AHA exfoliant in this formula.
- Bioflavonoid Content: Bioflavonoids neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution, reducing cumulative skin damage.
- Sun Damage Support: Studies show rosehip extracts can help improve the appearance of sun spots and uneven skin tone over time.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and soothes post-exfoliation sensitivity alongside Allantoin and Panthenol.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) SupportingProven
Panthenol is one of the most well-validated moisturizing and soothing agents in skincare. As a pro-vitamin, it converts to Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) on skin contact, where it acts as a potent humectant and wound-healing accelerant. It is an essential counterbalance ingredient in AHA formulas to prevent over-drying and maintain skin comfort.
- Humectant: Binds water molecules to the skin, maintaining hydration levels after cleansing — critical with AHA-containing products.
- Wound Healing: Stimulates keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation, accelerating recovery from micro-exfoliation.
- Anti-Aging Support: Used in anti-aging formulations to smooth fine lines and support elasticity.
Allantoin SupportingProven
Allantoin is a multifunctional soothing agent synthesized for cosmetic use from the comfrey plant. It is one of the most reliable and widely used skin-conditioning ingredients in the industry, known for its ability to calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote healthy cell turnover. In an AHA face wash, it plays a critical protective role in reducing post-exfoliation sensitivity.
- Keratolytic: Softens and smooths skin texture by promoting natural desquamation alongside glycolic acid.
- Cell Renewal: Stimulates keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation for faster skin regeneration.
- Soothing: Reliably reduces inflammation and redness, making it a standard inclusion in sensitive and post-treatment formulations.
5 ingredients
Glycolic Acid, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Sodium Rosehipsamphoacetate, Panthenol, Allantoin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first step in AM or PM routines. If using retinol at night, use this cleanser in the morning only. Always follow with SPF 30+ during daytime use.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face with Lukewarm Water
Avoid hot water, which can increase sensitivity of freshly exfoliated skin. Lukewarm or cool water is ideal before applying an AHA cleanser.
Apply a Small Amount to Fingertips
Dispense a dime-sized amount onto damp fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated gel formula.
Massage Gently in Circular Motions
Work into a light lather using gentle circular movements across the face and neck. Avoid the eye area. Leave on for 30–60 seconds to allow glycolic acid contact time for best exfoliation results.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with cool or lukewarm water and pat skin dry gently with a clean towel. Do not rub aggressively post-rinse.
Follow with Your Routine & SPF
Apply toner, serum, and moisturizer as usual. If using in the morning, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as the final step — non-negotiable with AHA use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or congested skin
- You want brighter, smoother skin texture
- You're dealing with mild hyperpigmentation or sun spots
- You prefer a minimalist, no-fuss ingredient list
- You want an affordable entry point into AHA skincare
- You have fungal acne and need a safe cleanser
- You're looking for an anti-aging daily cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- Your skin is very sensitive or rosacea-prone
- You're pregnant and have not consulted your OB/GYN
- You use high-strength retinoids nightly and want an evening cleanser
- You want a rich, creamy cleansing experience
- You have active open wounds or severely compromised skin barrier
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGlycolic acid dissolves excess sebum and dead cell buildup in pores, while Burdock Root regulates oil production — making this ideal for oily and congested complexions.
Non-comedogenic formula with AHA exfoliation and antibacterial Burdock Root targets the root causes of acne without clogging pores. Fungal acne safe.
Exfoliates T-zone congestion while Panthenol and Allantoin maintain hydration in drier facial zones — a well-balanced formula for combination types.
Effective exfoliation with built-in humectant protection from Panthenol. Best used every other day for dry skin types, followed by a rich moisturizer to lock in hydration.
The 3% concentration and soothing ingredients (Allantoin, Panthenol) reduce irritation risk, but very reactive or rosacea-prone skin should patch test carefully and start with 1–2 uses per week.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Smoother Skin Texture & Cleaner Feel
Skin feels visibly cleaner and less rough after the first use as glycolic acid begins exfoliating surface-level dead skin cell buildup. Slight tingling is normal and resolves quickly.
85% noticedReduced Congestion & Smaller-Looking Pores
Regular use begins clearing sebaceous filaments and blackheads as glycolic acid penetrates deeper into follicles. Pores appear less congested, and skin tone becomes more even.
72% noticedNoticeable Brightening & Even Skin Tone
With consistent cell turnover, hyperpigmentation and sun spots begin to fade. Skin gains a noticeably fresher, more luminous appearance. Breakouts appear less frequent in acne-prone users.
68% noticedImproved Skin Firmness & Anti-Aging Benefits
Glycolic acid's collagen-stimulating properties become measurable after 8–12 weeks of regular use. Fine lines and surface wrinkles begin to soften, and overall skin resilience improves.
55% noticedRatings by platform
450+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Genuinely effective 3% glycolic acid at a fraction of typical AHA product prices
- Ultra-minimal, clean 5-ingredient formula — no fillers or unnecessary additives
- Fungal acne safe — works for Malassezia-prone skin
- Non-comedogenic (rating 1/5) — suitable for acne-prone skin
- Brightening and pore-minimizing effects reported within 1–2 weeks
- Burdock Root adds antibacterial & anti-inflammatory benefits beyond basic AHA cleansers
- Excellent value at $10.00 per bottle
Criticized
- Very sensitive skin and rosacea may find even 3% glycolic too active without gradual introduction
- Requires strict SPF compliance — adds a step that some users overlook
- Minimalist formula lacks additional hydration boosters (hyaluronic acid, ceramides) for dry skin types
- Not pregnancy-cleared without physician consultation due to AHA content
- Small bottle size (4 fl oz) at $10 may not satisfy heavy daily users long-term
- Initial adjustment period may include mild peeling or sensitivity for new AHA users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same AHA exfoliant category with a similarly clean, minimal formula. Functions as a leave-on toner rather than a rinse-off cleanser — longer skin contact time means potentially stronger results, but requires more caution for new AHA users.
A glycolic acid gel cleanser with a richer surfactant base and added Aloe Vera. Higher price point but better suited for very dry skin types who need more moisture compensation. Slightly larger bottle size.
Higher concentration (3.5%) from a mass-market brand with wider availability. Contains additional anti-aging ingredients but also includes synthetic fragrance, making it less suitable for sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin compared to Matte Beauty.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
L'Oréal Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleanser
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Glycolic acid formulas are stable but should be discarded if the product changes color, texture, or smell.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in a steamy bathroom environment where temperature fluctuations can degrade active ingredients.
Flip-cap or squeeze tube bottle. Minimalist packaging in line with the brand's clean, simple ethos. Ensure cap is tightly closed after each use.
Yes — at 4 fl oz (118ml), this product meets most airline carry-on liquid restrictions (typically 3.4 fl oz / 100ml). Check your airline's specific policy. A small amount dispensed into a travel container is recommended for shorter trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis is a nuanced topic. Glycolic acid at 3% in a rinse-off cleanser is generally considered lower risk than high-concentration leave-on AHA products during pregnancy, as the contact time is short and rinse-off exposure is minimal. However, official dermatology guidelines recommend consulting your OB/GYN or dermatologist before using any AHA product during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Many doctors permit low-percentage AHA cleansers with caution. Do not self-prescribe — get personalized advice from your healthcare provider.
Yes — this formula is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. All five ingredients — Glycolic Acid, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Sodium Rosehipsamphoacetate, Panthenol, and Allantoin — are free from the fatty acids, fermented ingredients, polysorbates, and esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Glycolic acid itself is often recommended for fungal acne due to its exfoliating action on the follicle lining. This cleanser is a strong choice for those managing fungal acne alongside regular breakouts.
You can use this cleanser in the same routine as vitamin C serums (apply vitamin C after cleansing, separately). However, avoid using retinoids on the same night you use this AHA cleanser — AHAs and retinol combined can cause significant irritation and compromise the skin barrier. If using retinol nightly, use this glycolic cleanser in your morning routine only. Do not layer additional AHA or BHA exfoliants in the same routine step — this cleanser provides sufficient exfoliation on its own for most skin types.
This cleanser performs best for oily, acne-prone, combination, and normal skin types. The glycolic acid and burdock root are especially beneficial for congested pores and excess sebum production. It is also excellent for those dealing with uneven skin tone, mild hyperpigmentation, and early signs of aging. Dry skin types can use it effectively 2–3 times per week with a rich moisturizer. Very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin should approach with caution and start with once-weekly use.
Most users notice smoother skin texture and a cleaner feel after the very first use. Visible brightening and reduced congestion typically become apparent within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. More significant improvements in skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines require 4–8 weeks of regular use. For anti-aging collagen-stimulation benefits, consistent use over 2–3 months produces the most measurable results. Results vary based on skin type, frequency of use, and how well other routine steps (moisturizer, SPF) support the skin.
This is your first step — use it as your primary cleanser in either your morning or evening routine (or both, if your skin tolerates it). After rinsing off the cleanser, proceed with toner, serum, eye cream, and moisturizer in that order. If using in the morning, SPF is mandatory as the final step. If using at night alongside retinol, use this cleanser in the morning and save your retinol for the evening routine to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.
No — this formula has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. In fact, glycolic acid actively helps unclog pores by exfoliating within the follicle lining and dissolving sebum plugs. None of the five ingredients in this formula have meaningful pore-clogging potential. It is a suitable daily cleanser for those prone to blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged pores.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 12 months. However, glycolic acid formulas are generally stable when stored correctly. Keep the bottle away from heat, direct sunlight, and steam (avoid keeping in a hot shower). If you notice any change in color, consistency, or smell before the 12-month mark, discontinue use. A 4 fl oz (118ml) bottle used daily as a face cleanser typically lasts approximately 6–8 weeks for one user.
Verdict: Matte Beauty Glycolic Acid Face Wash delivers exactly what it promises — a clean, effective, and affordable AHA cleanser built around a focused 5-ingredient formula. At $10, it represents outstanding value in the glycolic acid cleanser category, especially given its fungal-acne-safe, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic profile. The 3% glycolic acid concentration is ideal for daily use without over-stripping, while Burdock Root, Rosehip, Panthenol, and Allantoin provide meaningful supporting benefits. It is best suited to oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types seeking visible brightening, pore clarity, and gentle anti-aging benefits without the complexity — or cost — of multi-ingredient alternatives.
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
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.