Great Skin Instant Glow Serum
Great Skin Instant Glow Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, bi-phase serum by Merit Beauty that instantly hydrates and visibly plumps skin with 4 types of Hyaluronic Acid, 2% Niacinamide, and caffeine-rich Cacao Seed Extract — delivering a dewy, healthy glow while brightening tone and reducing redness over time.
4 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multi-molecular weight HA complex targets multiple layers of skin for deep, long-lasting 24-hour hydration from within.
Texture & feel
SENSORY4 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multi-molecular weight HA complex targets multiple layers of skin for deep, long-lasting 24-hour hydration from within.
2% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Clinically proven concentration to visibly brighten skin, refine texture, and support a stronger skin barrier over time.
Cacao Seed Extract
Caffeine-rich antioxidant that stimulates blood flow to help plump skin instantly and protect against environmental stressors.
Japanese Goldthread Root
Coptis Japonica root extract provides potent antioxidant and soothing properties to calm irritation and reduce redness.
Bi-Phase Delivery System
Innovative two-phase formula maximizes bioavailability — essence phase hydrates, emollient phase locks in moisture for an instant glow.
Barrier-Strengthening Formula
Niacinamide and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) work together to reinforce the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and environmental damage.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from ferments, problematic fatty acids, polysorbates, and esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed safe by SkinSort analysis.
Lightweight, oil-free formula rated very low on the comedogenic scale. Clinically tested — 100% of participants found it non-irritating.
Free from fragrances, parabens, sulfates, silicones, and common allergens. 91% top allergen free according to SkinSAFE analysis.
No conflicting actives. Can be safely layered with retinol, Vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. Apply this serum after active treatments to lock in hydration.
Niacinamide can occasionally trigger flushing in rosacea-prone skin. Start with one pump and patch test if you have very reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua)Base
The primary solvent and base of the formula, making up the largest portion of this serum. Water acts as the vehicle for delivering active ingredients into the skin and forms the essence phase of this bi-phase system.
- Role: Universal solvent that dissolves water-soluble actives like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid for optimal delivery
- Function: Creates the lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that makes this serum feel like an essence
PropanediolHydrator
A corn-derived, multi-functional ingredient that softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin. It also works as a penetration enhancer, helping other actives absorb more effectively.
- Source: Plant-derived (corn), biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based propylene glycol
- Function: Acts as humectant, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent that improves product spreadability
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideEmollient
A lightweight emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. Forms the emollient phase of this bi-phase serum, helping to lock in hydration and create the immediate glow effect.
- Source: Derived from coconut and glycerin, resistant to oxidation with a long shelf life
- Function: Creates a protective barrier on the skin that traps moisture in without feeling greasy or heavy
Isononyl IsononanoateSkin Conditioner
A synthetic emollient that gives this serum its silky, velvety feel. Helps improve spreadability and reduces the tackiness that hyaluronic acid can sometimes leave behind.
- Source: Derived from nonanoic acid, a fatty acid found naturally in cocoa and lavender oil
- Function: Creates a smooth, non-greasy film on the skin that enhances the dewy finish without heaviness
1,2-HexanediolPreservative Booster
A multi-functional ingredient that acts as both a humectant and a preservative booster. Helps keep the formula stable and effective while also contributing mild hydrating benefits.
- Function: Enhances the antimicrobial activity of the formula without the use of traditional parabens
- Benefit: Also provides mild moisturizing effects, complementing the hydrating actives
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2%Proven
A powerhouse multitasking active that visibly brightens skin, refines texture, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps regulate oil production. At 2%, it is effective for barrier support and tone evening without causing irritation.
- Clinical evidence: At 2%, shown to improve skin barrier function and even out skin tone; 4-5% concentrations more effective for acne and sebum control
- Mechanism: Increases ceramide production in the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Benefits: Brightening, pore-refining, anti-aging, oil-regulating, and anti-inflammatory properties
Sodium Hyaluronate ~1.3-2%Proven
The classic form of hyaluronic acid — a powerful humectant that attracts and retains up to 1,000x its weight in water. Provides deep hydration to the upper layers of the skin for a plump, dewy appearance.
- Molecular weight: Standard molecular weight for excellent surface hydration and plumping
- Mechanism: Binds water molecules to the skin surface, creating a moisture reservoir that keeps skin hydrated throughout the day
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer ~1.1-1.6%Proven
A cross-linked form of hyaluronic acid that creates a flexible mesh on the skin surface. Provides longer-lasting hydration than standard HA because it resists being washed away or broken down quickly.
- Advantage: Cross-linking extends the moisture-retaining time significantly compared to linear hyaluronic acid
- Texture: Feels less sticky than regular HA while providing extended hydration — contributes to the comfortable wear of this serum
Hydrolyzed Sodium HyaluronateProven
A low molecular weight fragment of hyaluronic acid that can penetrate deeper into the skin than standard HA. Targets the lower layers of the epidermis for hydration from within.
- Mechanism: Smaller molecular size allows it to pass through the stratum corneum and hydrate deeper skin layers
- Benefit: Provides structural hydration that improves skin plumpness and elasticity from within over time
Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate ~0.55-1.35%Proven
An acetylated (oil-loving) form of hyaluronic acid with enhanced skin-binding ability. Adheres to the skin more firmly than standard HA, providing sustained hydration even after washing.
- Advantage: Up to 2x greater moisture retention than regular sodium hyaluronate due to its lipophilic acetyl groups
- Benefit: Creates a longer-lasting moisture film, contributing to the serum's 24-hour hydration claim
Coptis Japonica Root Extract (Japanese Goldthread)Promising
A traditional East Asian botanical known for its potent antioxidant and soothing properties. Rich in berberine, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits for calming irritated skin.
- Active compound: Berberine — a powerful alkaloid with documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
- Benefit: Helps reduce visible redness and soothe skin sensitivity, contributing to a calmer complexion
Theobroma Cacao Seed ExtractPromising
Caffeine-rich cacao extract that helps stimulate microcirculation in the skin for an immediate plumping and energizing effect. Also provides antioxidant protection from environmental stressors.
- Active compound: Naturally high in caffeine and theobromine, both known to improve blood flow to the skin
- Benefit: Promotes instant plumping by boosting microcirculation, giving skin a healthy, flushed appearance
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A pure form of Vitamin E — one of the most well-researched antioxidants in skincare. Protects cell membranes from free radical damage and supports skin barrier repair.
- Function: Neutralizes free radicals, protects lipid barrier, and extends the shelf life of the formulation
- Synergy: Works synergistically with Niacinamide to enhance overall antioxidant defense of the skin
Butylene GlycolHelper
A lightweight humectant and solvent commonly used in skincare to improve ingredient delivery and product texture. Helps dissolve and stabilize other actives in the formula.
- Function: Acts as a penetration enhancer, solvent, and mild humectant that attracts water to the skin
Pentylene GlycolHelper
A multifunctional ingredient that provides light moisturizing effects while also acting as a natural preservative booster. Helps keep the formula fresh without traditional preservatives.
- Function: Mild antimicrobial activity plus humectant benefits — allows the formula to stay paraben-free
EthylhexylglycerinHelper
A skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster derived from glycerin. Improves the feel of the product on skin while enhancing antimicrobial protection.
- Function: Deodorizing and antimicrobial boosting properties; also acts as a mild emollient
Citric AcidpH Adjuster
A naturally occurring acid used to adjust the pH of the formula to skin-friendly levels. Ensures optimal efficacy of the active ingredients, especially niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
- Function: pH buffering agent — keeps the formula at an optimal pH (typically 5.0-6.0) for maximum active ingredient performance
Sodium CitratepH Buffer
The sodium salt of citric acid, working alongside citric acid as a pH buffering system. Ensures the formula remains stable at its ideal acidity over time.
- Function: Chelating agent and pH stabilizer that maintains product integrity throughout its shelf life
DextrinStabilizer
A sugar-based ingredient used to stabilize the product formulation. Can also act as a mild humectant, attracting water to the upper layer of the skin.
- Function: Binding and stabilizing agent that helps maintain the bi-phase formula's consistency and texture
Trisodium Ethylenediamine DisuccinateChelator
A biodegradable chelating agent that binds metal ions in the formula, preventing them from degrading the active ingredients. A safer, eco-friendly alternative to traditional EDTA.
- Function: Prevents oxidation and degradation of sensitive ingredients like Vitamin E and niacinamide by sequestering trace metals
- Eco-benefit: Readily biodegradable — more environmentally friendly than conventional chelating agents like EDTA
20 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isononyl Isononanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract, Tocopherol, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Dextrin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEShake well before use. Apply after cleansing (and active serums, if any) and before moisturizer. Can also be layered over actives to lock in hydration. Works AM & PM.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well
The bi-phase formula separates naturally. Shake the bottle well to combine the essence and emollient phases before each use.
Dispense & Warm
Pump 1-3 times into your palms (oily skin: 1-2 pumps, normal: 2 pumps, dry skin: 3 pumps). Rub hands together to warm the serum.
Press Into Skin
Gently press the serum into your face and neck with both palms. Avoid rubbing — pressing helps the formula absorb more effectively.
Layer or Wear Alone
Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen (AM), or wear alone for a natural glow. Wears beautifully under makeup or as a no-makeup base.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want an instant, natural-looking glow without makeup
- Your skin feels dehydrated, dull, or lacks radiance
- You prefer a minimalist routine with multi-tasking products
- You have sensitive skin and need a fragrance-free, gentle serum
- You want a serum that layers well under makeup
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydrating serum
- You struggle with fungal acne and need an FA-safe option
Consider alternatives if:
- You need intensive anti-aging with high-strength retinol or peptides
- You prefer a matte, shine-free finish
- You want a serum with very high niacinamide concentration (5-10%)
- You need targeted acne treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
- You have severe rosacea that flares with niacinamide
- You prefer a very thick, rich cream texture over lightweight serums
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs instantly with zero residue. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production. Use 1-2 pumps for best results.
4 types of HA provide deep hydration, but very dry skin will benefit from layering a richer moisturizer on top. Use 3 pumps as recommended by the brand.
Perfectly balanced formula that hydrates dry areas without adding shine to oily zones. The bi-phase system adapts well to mixed skin needs.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and clinically tested (100% found it non-irritating). Patch test recommended for rosacea-prone skin due to niacinamide.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and oil-free. Niacinamide helps reduce breakouts and clogged pores. Will not aggravate existing acne.
Multi-weight HA complex plumps fine lines effectively. Reported as #1 anti-aging serum at Sephora. For deeper wrinkles, pair with a retinol treatment.
Results timeline
MONTH 1-2Instant Hydration & Glow
Skin appears plumper, smoother, and visibly more radiant right after application. The bi-phase formula delivers an immediate luminous finish.
100% noticed improved textureCalmer, Brighter Skin
Niacinamide begins to visibly brighten skin tone and smooth texture. Skin feels consistently calmer and more comfortable throughout the day.
97% noticed visibly brighter skinReduced Redness & Even Tone
Visible reduction in redness and more even skin tone as niacinamide and Japanese Goldthread root work to calm inflammation and regulate pigmentation.
97% reported luminous, glowing skinStrengthened Barrier & Lasting Hydration
Skin barrier is noticeably strengthened with improved moisture retention. Overall complexion appears healthier, plumper, and more resilient against environmental stressors.
91% reported more radiant skinRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Delivers an immediate, natural-looking healthy glow
- Ultra-lightweight and absorbs in seconds with zero residue
- Layers perfectly under makeup without pilling
- Clean, minimal ingredient list (only 20 ingredients)
- Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny certified)
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic
- 4 types of HA provide multi-layer hydration lasting 24 hours
- Beautiful, weighty recycled glass packaging
- #1 Anti-Aging Serum at Sephora North America
Criticized
- Requires shaking before each use (bi-phase formula separates)
- Slightly tacky feel before fully absorbing for some users
- 2% niacinamide may not be potent enough for stubborn pigmentation
- Price per ml is higher than some competitor serums
- Very dry skin may need additional moisturizer on top
- Rare cases of niacinamide-triggered flushing in rosacea-prone skin
- Glass bottle is heavy and fragile for travel
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Provides multi-weight hyaluronic acid hydration at a fraction of the price. Lacks the niacinamide, cacao extract, and bi-phase delivery system. Simpler formula, less luxurious texture, no instant glow effect.
Combines hyaluronic acid with niacinamide in a hydrating serum like Merit's. Features green tea antioxidants instead of cacao. More affordable but lacks the bi-phase technology and immediate glow finish.
Drugstore option with hyaluronic acid and ceramides for barrier repair. More clinical and less luxurious — no glow effect, no niacinamide, no antioxidant botanicals. Best for pure hydration needs.
Higher concentration niacinamide (10%) for more aggressive brightening and oil control. Lacks the multi-weight HA complex and glow-boosting botanicals. Better for oily/acne-prone skin on a budget.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed. Keep bottle upright to prevent leaking.
Weighty, semi-translucent recycled glass bottle with pump dispenser. All packaging is 100% recyclable.
Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on limit. Also available in a 15ml travel size. Note: glass bottle is heavier than plastic alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All 20 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and nursing. However, as with any skincare product, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes. This serum has been confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort and ingredient analysis tools. It is free from ferments, problematic fatty acids (C11-C24), polysorbates, and esters that feed Malassezia yeast. The formula's lightweight, oil-free composition makes it one of the few glow serums suitable for fungal acne-prone skin.
Yes. This serum contains no conflicting actives and can be safely combined with retinol, Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHA (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHA (salicylic acid). Merit recommends applying your active serums first, then layering this serum on top to lock in hydration and improve texture over time. The 2% niacinamide is at a gentle concentration that pairs well with all common actives.
This serum is formulated for all skin types including oily, dry, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. It works particularly well for combination and oily skin types due to its lightweight, non-greasy texture. Those with very dry skin may want to use 3 pumps and follow with a richer moisturizer. The brand adjusts application amounts by skin type: 1-2 pumps for oily/combo skin, 2 for normal, and 3 for dry skin.
You will see an immediate improvement in glow and hydration from the very first application. In clinical studies, 100% of participants agreed it improved skin texture right away. After 2 weeks of consistent use, 97% reported visibly brighter skin and a smoother, plumper complexion. By 4 weeks, visible reduction in redness and more even tone were observed. Full barrier-strengthening benefits develop over 1-2 months of regular use.
Apply after cleansing (and toner, if you use one) and before moisturizer. If you use active serums like retinol or Vitamin C, apply those first, then layer this serum on top to lock in hydration. In the morning, follow with moisturizer and sunscreen. It applies like an essence with the strength of a serum and layers beautifully under makeup or wears well on its own.
No. The formula is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 — very low risk of clogging pores. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and has been clinically tested as non-irritating. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly with zero residue. It is also confirmed fungal acne safe, meaning it won't feed the yeast that causes fungal breakouts. Niacinamide in the formula can actually help reduce clogged pores and regulate oil production.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal potency and freshness. The pump dispenser and recycled glass bottle help protect the formula from oxidation and contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The full-size 50ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use (2 pumps per application).
Verdict: Merit Beauty's Great Skin Instant Glow Serum is an exceptionally well-formulated, clean bi-phase serum that delivers on its promise of instant radiance and long-term skin improvement. With a concise 20-ingredient list featuring 4 types of Hyaluronic Acid, 2% Niacinamide, and caffeine-rich Cacao Seed Extract, it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and efficacy. The formula's standout strengths are its fungal acne safety, pregnancy compatibility, and ability to layer flawlessly under makeup — making it a rare serum that truly works for everyone. At $38 for 50ml, it sits at a premium price point but is justified by its innovative bi-phase technology, clinical results, and clean formulation. The only reasons it doesn't earn a perfect 5 are the modest 2% niacinamide concentration (those needing stronger brightening may want more) and the glass packaging that adds weight for travel. Overall, this is an outstanding everyday glow serum worthy of its #1 anti-aging serum ranking at Sephora.
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 2 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isononyl Isononanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antistatic Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|