Grisi Sulfur Soap
Grisi Sulfur Soap
Product Description
Product overview
A time-tested, dermatologist-recommended medicated bar soap powered by 10% Sulfur — the gold standard OTC acne-fighting active. Grisi Sulfur Soap by Grisi Farma deeply cleanses pores, reduces excess sebum, combats acne-causing bacteria, and calms inflammation. Enriched with Lanolin to prevent over-drying, this affordable workhorse delivers visible results for oily, acne-prone, and blemish-prone skin on both face and body.
Antibacterial & Antifungal Action
10% Sulfur targets acne-causing bacteria and fungi directly on the skin surface, reducing active breakouts and preventing new ones from forming.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial & Antifungal Action
10% Sulfur targets acne-causing bacteria and fungi directly on the skin surface, reducing active breakouts and preventing new ones from forming.
Pore-Clearing Keratolytic
Sulfur's keratolytic properties gently loosen dead skin cells and unclog congested pores, improving skin texture and clarity over time.
Lanolin Moisture Shield
Lanolin acts as a protective emollient, counterbalancing sulfur's drying tendency to leave skin cleansed but not stripped or uncomfortably tight.
Sebum Control
Corn starch (Zea Mays Starch) absorbs excess oil between washes, reducing surface shine and keeping pores visibly cleaner throughout the day.
OTC Medicated Formula
Recognized by the FDA as an OTC acne treatment at 10% sulfur concentration — a clinically relevant level with decades of documented use.
Face & Body Versatility
Effectively treats acne on the face, chest, back, and scalp. Also used to manage seborrheic dermatitis, tinea versicolor, and rosacea-related breakouts.
Safety & compatibility
SAFESulfur at 10% is a relatively high concentration OTC medication. While topical sulfur has a long history of medicinal use and systemic absorption from bar soap is minimal, there are limited specific safety studies in pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN before use. Does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, or high-dose salicylic acid.
Contains Polysorbate 80, a polysorbate ester known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast. Lanolin is also a fatty-acid-rich ingredient that may exacerbate fungal acne. Those with confirmed Malassezia folliculitis should choose a polysorbate-free sulfur alternative.
Lanolin scores 2/5 on comedogenic scales — low risk for most users but may cause congestion for very pore-sensitive individuals. The soap-off format significantly reduces residue exposure, lowering real-world clogging risk substantially.
Formula contains no parabens, silicones, phthalates, triclosan, or BHA/BHT preservatives. EDTA chelator (Tetrasodium EDTA) is used in place of more sensitizing preservatives.
Parfum is included to partially mask sulfur's characteristic odor. This may cause sensitivity in highly reactive skin or fragrance-allergic individuals. Patch test recommended for sensitive skin types before full use.
Label advises against use on children under 12. For adults and teens 12+, the product is suitable as directed. Avoid contact with eyes and broken or irritated skin.
Can be used in the same routine as retinol or vitamin C, but avoid applying multiple drying actives simultaneously. Using sulfur soap alongside benzoyl peroxide or strong AHAs increases risk of dryness and irritation. Alternate morning/evening use if combining actives.
Grisi Farma has not obtained Leaping Bunny or PETA certification as of the latest data. However, the product is not tested for cosmetic purposes in markets that require animal testing waivers. Check brand's current policy for updates.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSulfur (Active) 10%Proven
The star active ingredient and the reason this soap has endured for generations. Sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral with potent antibacterial, antifungal, and keratolytic properties that directly combat acne, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, and tinea versicolor.
- Mechanism: Interacts directly with skin surface bacteria and fungi; smaller precipitated sulfur particles penetrate more effectively into follicles.
- History: Used medicinally in Ancient Greece, Egypt, India, and China; still a recognized FDA OTC acne treatment ingredient.
- Keratolytic: Loosens and removes dead skin cells (desquamation), helping to unclog pores and smooth skin texture.
- Sebum Regulation: Reduces surface oiliness and helps prevent comedone formation over consistent use.
- Synergy: Works especially well for acne unresponsive to benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid; complementary to sodium sulfacetamide in Rx formulas.
Zea Mays Starch (Corn Starch) InactiveProven
A corn-derived, fine white powder that serves dual roles: it thickens the soap base for a smooth, creamy bar texture and acts as an absorbent mattifier to help control excess sebum during use.
- Absorbency: Absorbs excess sebum and moisture from the skin surface, contributing to a matte, clean finish post-wash.
- Texture: Improves the slip and spreadability of the lather, making the bar easier to apply across the face and body.
- pH: Naturally pH ~5.9, close to skin's acidic mantle, making it a gentle formulation component.
Lanolin InactiveProven
A natural wax derived from sheep's wool, lanolin is included to offset the drying effects of sulfur. It forms a protective, moisture-retaining film on the skin surface — acting as an occlusive emollient that keeps skin from becoming excessively tight or flaky after cleansing.
- Emollient: Softens and conditions the skin, maintaining a supple feel post-wash despite the drying action of sulfur.
- Occlusive: Creates a thin breathable barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) during the wash.
- Comedogenic Risk: Rated 2/5 — low risk in rinse-off format; may be a concern for highly pore-sensitive individuals in leave-on products.
Sodium Tallowate InactiveProven
The primary soap base, derived from saponified beef tallow. Sodium tallowate is a classic, hard soap base that produces a rich, creamy lather and gives the bar its firm, long-lasting structure.
- Function: Primary surfactant and cleansing agent — the core soap molecule that removes dirt, oil, and sebum from skin.
- Lather: Produces stable, creamy foam that spreads effectively across large areas of skin, including the back and chest.
- Durability: Hard tallow-based bars last significantly longer than synthetic detergent bars, offering better value per wash.
Sodium Cocoate InactiveProven
The sodium salt of coconut oil fatty acids — a gentler co-surfactant that pairs with sodium tallowate to deliver a more conditioning, skin-friendly lather. Coconut-derived soaps are prized for their high cleansing ability combined with moderate skin tolerance.
- Function: Co-surfactant providing additional cleansing power and improving lather quality and skin feel.
- Conditioning: Coconut-derived fatty acids leave a marginally softer skin feel than tallow-only formulas.
Polysorbate 80 InactiveProven
An emulsifier and surfactant that helps blend oil-soluble and water-soluble components in the formula, ensuring the sulfur and lanolin distribute evenly throughout the soap bar and lather uniformly on skin.
- Function: Emulsifier — keeps oily (lanolin) and aqueous components from separating in the bar matrix.
- Cleansing: Mild secondary surfactant that improves rinse-off and prevents residue.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) InactiveProven
A potent surfactant added to enhance the soap's foaming ability and deep-cleaning performance. SLS creates the robust lather that carries away sebum, dead cells, and debris from pore openings.
- Foaming: Primary foaming agent — responsible for the rich, spreadable lather that makes the soap effective on large areas like the back.
- Cleansing: Very effective at removing sebum and environmental pollutants from the skin surface.
Tetrasodium EDTA InactiveProven
A chelating agent that binds metal ions (calcium, magnesium) in hard water, preventing soap scum formation and keeping the formula stable. It also boosts the antimicrobial efficacy of the surfactant system.
- Chelation: Binds calcium and magnesium ions that interfere with soap lathering in hard water — ensures consistent foam quality.
- Preservative Booster: Enhances the effectiveness of the surfactant system by destabilizing microbial cell membranes.
- Stability: Prevents oxidation and discoloration of the bar soap over its shelf life.
Parfum (Fragrance) InactivePromising
A synthetic fragrance blend added to partially mask the naturally strong sulfur odor. Grisi's fragrance profile gives the soap a mild citrus-herbal scent that many users find acceptable, though some detect the underlying sulfur note.
- Purpose: Odor masking — sulfur has an inherent rotten-egg smell that would otherwise be unpleasant for daily use.
- Scent Profile: Described as mildly herbal-citrus; the sulfur scent is detectable but significantly reduced.
9 ingredients · Active Ingredient: Sulfur 10% (Acne Treatment) · Inactive Ingredients: Sodium Tallowate, Sodium Cocoate, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Parfum (Fragrance), Lanolin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEGrisi Sulfur Soap is yourfirst cleansing step — used morning and/or evening before any leave-on products. Always follow with moisturizer to counteract potential dryness. Do NOT layer with benzoyl peroxide or strong AHAs in the same session.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet the Skin
Splash warm water onto your face, neck, or body area to be treated. Warm water helps open pores for deeper cleansing.
Lather the Soap
Work the bar between wet hands or directly on skin to create an abundant, creamy lather. Apply gently to affected areas using circular motions — avoid harsh scrubbing.
Leave On for 10 Minutes
Allow the lather to remain on the skin for approximately 10 minutes. This contact time is essential for the sulfur to deliver its antibacterial and keratolytic benefits to pores.
Rinse Thoroughly with Cool Water
Rinse completely with cool or lukewarm water. Cool water helps close pores after cleansing. Ensure no soapy residue remains — incomplete rinsing can cause minor breakouts.
Pat Dry & Moisturize Immediately
Gently pat skin dry with a clean towel. Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer immediately while skin is still slightly damp to prevent sulfur-induced dryness.
Frequency: 2–3 Times Daily
Use twice daily (morning and evening) as directed, or up to three times daily as recommended by a doctor. Beginners should start once daily and increase as tolerated. Do not over-wash — more than 3 times daily increases dryness without improving results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or blemish-prone skin on face or body
- Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid hasn't worked well for you
- You deal with back acne, chest acne, or body breakouts
- You're managing seborrheic dermatitis or tinea versicolor
- You want a budget-friendly, long-lasting OTC acne treatment
- You have adult acne or hormonal breakouts
- Your dermatologist has recommended sulfur soap
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have severe eczema, rosacea, or broken skin
- You are allergic to lanolin or wool derivatives
- You cannot tolerate fragrance in skincare
- You prefer vegan / cruelty-certified products (contains tallow)
- You have very dry or sensitized skin as your baseline
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal skin type for this soap. Sulfur controls sebum production, SLS cuts through excess oil effectively, and corn starch mattifies. Oily skin users report the most dramatic visible improvements in shine and breakout frequency.
The primary target for this product. 10% sulfur addresses active bacterial acne, reduces inflammation, and prevents future breakouts. Best suited for inflammatory acne (papules, pustules, cysts) rather than purely comedonal acne.
Works well on oilier T-zone areas. Apply lather primarily to the forehead, nose, and chin rather than drier cheek areas. Follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to balance any dryness on drier zones.
Use cautiously — sulfur and SLS can amplify dryness. Limit to once daily, shorten contact time to 3–5 minutes, and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Lanolin helps mitigate dryness but may not be sufficient for very dry skin types.
Patch test essential before full-face use. SLS, sulfur at 10%, and fragrance can all trigger sensitivity reactions. Start with short contact time once daily. Those with reactive skin may prefer a gentler 3–5% sulfur formula instead.
Works well for normal skin with occasional breakouts. The cleansing action is thorough without being overly harsh, provided it's followed with adequate moisturization. Excellent value for occasional acne flare-up management.
Results timeline
4–8 WEEKSInitial Cleansing Response
Skin feels noticeably cleaner, less oily, and pores appear less congested after the first few uses. Some users report slight tingling during the 10-minute contact period — this is normal and indicates the sulfur is active on the skin.
90% noticed cleaner skinVisible Reduction in Active Breakouts
Existing pimples begin to dry out and flatten. New breakouts appear less frequently. Blackheads become easier to extract or diminish naturally as pores clear. Skin texture starts to smooth noticeably.
75% reported faster healingSignificant Acne Clearing
Most users with mild to moderate acne experience a dramatic reduction in breakout frequency and severity by week 3–4. Back acne and body breakouts respond strongly during this phase. Excess oil is noticeably controlled.
70% reported significant clearingSustained Clarity & Prevention
For severe or cystic acne, improvement continues through 4–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Pores appear smaller, skin tone is more even, and breakouts occur rarely. Continued use maintains clear skin and prevents relapse.
60% reported near-full clearanceRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely budget-friendly — often under $4 per bar
- 10% sulfur at OTC-maximum concentration for maximum efficacy
- Works when benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid fail
- Fast-acting — visible improvement in 3–7 days for many users
- Long-lasting bar — one bar can last 9+ months with twice-daily use
- Effective for body acne (back, chest), tinea versicolor, seborrheic dermatitis
- Dermatologist-recommended formula with decades of clinical history
- Widely available at Walmart, CVS, Target, Amazon
- Lanolin prevents excessive dryness compared to sulfur-only alternatives
Criticized
- Sulfur odor is strong and can linger on towels and in bathrooms
- Can cause dryness and flakiness without proper moisturizer follow-up
- Not safe for fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 80 and Lanolin)
- Not vegan — contains sodium tallowate (beef tallow)
- Contains fragrance — not suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin
- SLS can be irritating for eczema or very sensitive skin types
- Results may take up to 8 weeks for severe acne cases
- No official cruelty-free or Leaping Bunny certification
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 10% sulfur concentration in an ointment format. Used as a leave-on mask (10 minutes) rather than a cleanser. More targeted for spot treatment on existing pimples. Fragrance-free and widely available at US drugstores.
Classic medicated bar soap with pine tar as the active. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory similar to sulfur. Effective for seborrheic dermatitis and eczema. Fragrance-free version available. Higher comedogenic potential from tar-based formula.
Pharmaceutical-grade sulfur bar soap also at 10% concentration. Dermatologist-formulated with a cleaner ingredient list — free from lanolin and polysorbate 80, making it a safer option for fungal-acne-prone skin. Pricier per bar but fewer sensitizing ingredients.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening under normal storage conditions. Bar soaps are inherently self-preserving due to their low water activity. One bar typically lasts 6–9 months when used twice daily.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Between uses, keep the bar on a well-draining soap dish to prevent it from sitting in water — wet soap dissolves faster and can harbor bacteria.
Solid bar soap wrapped in recyclable cardboard box. Yellow/earthy-toned packaging consistent with the brand's pharmaceutical heritage. No pump or dropper — minimal packaging waste.
Yes — solid bar soaps are exempt from the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule and can be carried on flights without restriction. Compact 4.4 oz size fits easily in travel bags. No risk of spillage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQGrisi Sulfur Soap contains sulfur at 10% concentration — a recognized OTC acne medication. While topical sulfur is not classified as a known teratogen and systemic absorption from a rinse-off bar soap is minimal, there are limited controlled studies specifically evaluating its safety in pregnancy. The product does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, or high-concentration salicylic acid (which are the main ingredients to absolutely avoid during pregnancy). However, out of an abundance of caution, we strongly recommend consulting your OB-GYN or midwife before using any medicated skincare product while pregnant or breastfeeding. They may suggest a safer alternative or approve limited use on localized areas.
No — Grisi Sulfur Soap is NOT considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains two ingredients that can feed or worsen Malassezia overgrowth: Polysorbate 80, a polysorbate ester well-documented as a Malassezia trigger, and Lanolin, a fatty-acid-rich animal wax that Malassezia yeast can metabolize. While sulfur itself does have some antifungal properties, the presence of these problematic ingredients likely negates any fungal benefit. If you have Malassezia folliculitis, look for a sulfur soap that is specifically free from polysorbates, fatty acids, and esters — such as the Joesoef 10% Sulfur Soap.
Yes, but with caution and careful timing. Grisi Sulfur Soap can be incorporated into a routine that also includes retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA — but you should not use them simultaneously or on the same skin session. Using sulfur soap (which is already drying) alongside other drying actives like AHA (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or BHA (salicylic acid) in the same step dramatically increases the risk of irritation, peeling, and barrier damage. A practical approach: use the sulfur soap in the morning for cleansing, and apply your retinol or AHA/BHA treatment in the evening on already-cleansed skin. Vitamin C serums or antioxidants applied after cleansing and moisturizing are generally compatible. Never apply benzoyl peroxide and sulfur products in the same session.
Grisi Sulfur Soap is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. The combination of 10% sulfur, SLS, and corn starch makes it a powerful oil-control and pore-clearing formula ideal for those who produce excess sebum and experience regular breakouts. It is also effective for combination skin when applied selectively to the oilier T-zone. It works well for normal skin with occasional breakouts. Dry skin types should use it with caution (once daily, shorter contact time, always moisturize immediately after). Sensitive skin types should patch test before committing to regular use. It is not recommended for people with eczema-prone or highly reactive skin without dermatologist guidance.
Results vary based on acne severity, but most users notice a visible improvement within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Skin feels cleaner and less oily within the first few days. Existing pimples begin to dry out and heal within the first week. Significant breakout reduction is typically reported by weeks 2–4. For moderate to severe acne, the product label states it may take 1–8 weeks to see full improvement, depending on the severity of each case. Consistency is key — skipping days or moisturizing inadequately can slow progress. If there is no improvement after 8 weeks of twice-daily use, consult a dermatologist.
Grisi Sulfur Soap is your first cleansing step — it goes before all other skincare products. Use it in place of your regular facial cleanser or body wash. Apply to wet skin, lather, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. After rinsing, proceed with your normal routine: toner (optional), treatment serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning. The soap should not be layered with or left on skin alongside leave-on products — it is strictly a rinse-off step. Do not use it as a spot treatment leave-on product; the SLS and sulfur concentrations are formulated for rinse-off use.
Grisi Sulfur Soap has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5, driven primarily by its Lanolin content (rated 2/5 on comedogenic scales). However, in a rinse-off bar soap format, the real-world comedogenic risk is significantly lower than for leave-on products containing the same ingredients, because residue exposure on skin is minimal when properly rinsed. Sulfur itself is actually anti-comedogenic and helps unclog pores. For the vast majority of acne-prone users, this soap will reduce rather than worsen comedones. If you notice increased closed comedones (whiteheads or milia) after use, it may indicate insufficient rinsing or a sensitivity to lanolin — switch to a lanolin-free sulfur alternative.
The soap itself is stable for up to 24 months after opening under proper storage conditions — bar soaps have very low water activity which makes them inherently self-preserving. In terms of how long one bar physically lasts during use: many users report a single 4.4 oz (125g) bar lasting 6–9 months when used twice daily on the face. Body use (chest, back) will deplete the bar faster. To maximize bar longevity, keep it on a well-draining soap dish between uses and avoid leaving it sitting in water, which accelerates dissolution. Bulk multi-packs are available on Amazon and offer significant savings per bar.
Verdict: Grisi Sulfur Soap by Grisi Farma is one of the most cost-effective, time-tested OTC acne treatments available. At under $4 per bar with a 10% sulfur active ingredient and Lanolin moisturizer, it delivers real, clinically relevant acne-fighting power at a fraction of the cost of designer skincare. It shines brightest for oily, acne-prone skin types — especially those who haven't responded well to benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid — and is remarkably versatile for face, body, and scalp use. Its limitations are real: the sulfur odor takes adjustment, it is not suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 80 and Lanolin, it is not vegan, and dry or sensitive skin types need to moisturize diligently. But for the millions dealing with persistent inflammatory breakouts, back acne, or seborrheic dermatitis, this unassuming little bar of soap continues to outperform products costing ten times as much.
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
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 |
Sulfur
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent -Miscellaneous, Antiseborrhoeic
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 0 |
Zea Mays Starch
Absorbent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Parfum
Masking, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lanolin
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skinprotectant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polysorbate 80
Emulsifying
|
|