Healing Ointment
Healing Ointment
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed, petrolatum-based healing ointment that combines 46.5% occlusive petrolatum with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid — creating an unmatched moisture-sealing formula for cracked, chafed, and severely dry skin. The original (old) formulation is notably preservative-free, making it exceptionally gentle for even the most reactive or compromised skin barriers.
Occlusive Moisture Lock
Petrolatum at 46.5% is the most effective occlusive agent in skincare, forming a water-repellant film that seals in moisture and shields damaged skin for up to 8 hours continuously.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOcclusive Moisture Lock
Petrolatum at 46.5% is the most effective occlusive agent in skincare, forming a water-repellant film that seals in moisture and shields damaged skin for up to 8 hours continuously.
Ceramide Barrier Complex
Three essential ceramides (NP, 3 & AP) at clinically meaningful concentrations replenish the skin's natural lipid matrix, actively rebuilding compromised barriers and reducing transepidermal water loss.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration
Natural (non-hydrolyzed) hyaluronic acid in the old formula attracts water molecules to the skin's surface and works synergistically with the petrolatum layer to deliver and retain deep hydration.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
A proven anti-inflammatory and wound-healing ingredient that soothes irritated and cracked skin while providing its own humectant and emollient action to speed recovery.
Preservative-Free Old Formula
Unlike the reformulated version, the original formulation contains no Phenoxyethanol or Ethylhexylglycerin — ideal for hyper-reactive, post-procedure, or eczema-compromised skin requiring the cleanest possible barrier support.
Multi-Area Versatility
Dermatologist-approved for face, lips, hands, feet, elbows, knees, cuticles, and as a last-step overnight "slugging" occlusive layer to seal in your full evening skincare routine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAll ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, essential oils, or chemical sunscreens. Petrolatum is one of the most widely recommended ingredients for pregnant skin. Always consult your OB/GYN for personalized guidance.
Contains Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, a C12 fatty acid ester that may theoretically feed Malassezia yeast in leave-on applications. The petrolatum and mineral oil base are FA-safe, but those with active or severe fungal acne may prefer a pure petrolatum alternative. Patch testing is recommended.
Officially non-comedogenic per CeraVe and dermatologist development standards. Key occlusives — petrolatum (0), mineral oil (0–1), paraffin (0), ozokerite (0–1) — carry the lowest possible comedogenic ratings. Suitable for most skin types including acne-prone when used sparingly.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association (NEA). Free from fragrance, dyes, and lanolin — three of the most common contact allergens for reactive and eczema-prone skin. Dermatologists frequently recommend this as a first-line barrier repair for atopic dermatitis.
The original formulation contains no added preservatives (Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, or parabens). The petrolatum base is naturally antimicrobial, making preservatives unnecessary in this formula. This makes it one of the cleanest choices for compromised or allergy-prone skin.
CeraVe is owned by L'Oréal, which conducts animal testing where required by law (e.g., for Chinese market compliance). The product formula itself contains no obvious animal-derived ingredients; however, Cholesterol may be derived from animal or plant sources depending on the batch.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPetrolatum 46.5% ActiveProven
The gold-standard occlusive in dermatology, petrolatum (also known as petroleum jelly) is the primary active ingredient in CeraVe Healing Ointment. By forming a semi-solid water-repellant film on the skin's surface, it physically prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) — the most effective moisture-retention mechanism available in topical skincare.
- Mechanism: Creates an occlusive layer that mimics the stratum corneum's natural barrier, reducing TEWL by up to 98% when applied at sufficient thickness.
- FDA Classification: Recognized as a safe and effective OTC skin protectant at concentrations of 30–100%; this formula uses 46.5%.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0/5 — one of the very few heavy occlusive ingredients scientifically confirmed non-comedogenic in clinical settings.
- Uses: Healing minor cuts, burns, chapped lips, cracked heels, dry elbows and knees, post-procedure wound care, and as a "slugging" final layer.
Ceramide Complex (NP + 3 + AP) ~5.0–7.4% CombinedProven
The three essential ceramides in this formula — Ceramide NP (2.1–3.1%), Ceramide AP (1.5–2.3%), and Ceramide 3 — are naturally occurring skin lipids that make up approximately 50% of the skin's outer barrier. Topical ceramide replenishment has been clinically demonstrated to restore barrier function in dry and eczema-prone skin.
- Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3): Most abundant ceramide in the stratum corneum; critical for water retention and barrier organization.
- Ceramide AP: Supports structural integrity of lamellar bodies within the skin's lipid matrix, reducing inflammation and sensitivity.
- Phytosphingosine (0.1–0.5%): A ceramide precursor that promotes synthesis of natural ceramides and has mild antimicrobial activity against surface bacteria.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show topical ceramide formulations significantly reduce TEWL and improve barrier function scores in patients with atopic dermatitis within 2–4 weeks.
Hyaluronic Acid (Non-Hydrolyzed) Low–ModerateProven
In the old formulation, CeraVe used non-hydrolyzed (standard) Hyaluronic Acid — a naturally occurring polysaccharide that can bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It serves as a humectant, drawing water from the environment and the deeper dermis to hydrate the uppermost skin layers before the petrolatum layer seals everything in.
- Old vs New Formula: The reformulated product uses Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (lower molecular weight) for potentially better penetration. The old formula uses standard HA, which primarily acts on the skin's surface.
- Synergy: Paired with petrolatum, HA is highly effective — the occlusive layer traps the moisture drawn in by HA, maximizing hydration retention.
- Safety: No known interactions with medications or other skincare actives. Safe for all skin types, including pregnant women and newborns.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) LowProven
Panthenol is the alcohol form of Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5). It is converted to Pantothenic Acid by the skin and has a dual action as both a humectant (attracting water) and an emollient (softening skin surface). It is widely studied for its wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-barrier-supporting properties.
- Wound Healing: Multiple clinical studies confirm panthenol accelerates epidermal wound healing by stimulating fibroblast proliferation and accelerating epithelialization.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation, particularly relevant for eczema and post-procedure skin.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0/5 — completely non-comedogenic.
Dimethicone Low–ModerateProven
A silicone-based emollient and skin protectant that fills in micro-gaps on the skin surface, leaving a smooth, soft finish. In combination with petrolatum, it contributes additional occlusive protection while reducing the heavy, waxy feel typical of pure petrolatum formulas.
- Function: Skin protectant (OTC category), emollient, and texture modifier.
- Benefit: Reduces the greasiness associated with pure petrolatum-only products, making application more comfortable.
- Note: Dimethicone can cause pilling when layered over certain water-based serums — apply ointment as the absolute last step to avoid this.
19 ingredients total (1 Active + 18 Inactive)
Active Ingredient: Petrolatum 46.5%
Inactive Ingredients: Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Paraffin, Ozokerite, Dimethicone, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Ceramide NP, Ceramide 3, Ceramide AP, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Panthenol, Water, L-Proline, Xanthan Gum
Note: The old formulation does NOT contain Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pantolactone, or Tocopherol — key differences from the current (new) 22-ingredient reformulation.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways apply as the absolute last step in your PM routine. The occlusive petrolatum layer will block absorption of any products applied on top. Not recommended for daytime use under SPF — the thick, glossy finish can interfere with sunscreen formulation and cause SPF pilling. Excellent as an overnight "slugging" layer to maximize the efficacy of your full evening routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle, effective cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and oil. Since this ointment is occlusive, it will lock in whatever is beneath it — clean skin is essential. Ensure you remove the ointment fully from the previous night before re-cleansing.
Apply Your Full Routine Underneath
Complete all other steps — toner, serums, treatments, and moisturizer — before applying the ointment. Allow each layer to absorb for 30–60 seconds before proceeding to ensure the products are properly delivered into the skin.
Scoop with a Clean Spatula (Tub Packaging)
To maintain product hygiene in the tub format, always use a clean spatula or cotton swab to scoop out product — never your fingers directly. This prevents contamination of the remaining product and extends its useful life.
Apply a Thin Layer Over Target Areas
Warm a small amount between your fingertips to soften it, then press and smooth a thin layer over dry, cracked, or compromised areas — or across the entire face for slugging. Less is more: a thin, even layer is just as effective as a thick one and far more comfortable to sleep in.
Use as Needed — Best as an Overnight Treatment
Apply nightly for dry or eczema-prone skin, or as needed for spot treatment of chapped lips, cracked knuckles, or dry cuticles. The ointment works throughout the night, so morning application is generally not necessary unless targeting a specific non-facial body area.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have very dry, cracked, or chafed skin on the face or body
- You suffer from eczema, atopic dermatitis, or chronic dry skin conditions
- You need a last-step evening occlusive for your "slugging" routine
- You want a fragrance-free, lanolin-free, dye-free healing ointment
- Your skin barrier is compromised from harsh weather, over-exfoliation, or medical procedures
- You need targeted relief for cracked heels, chapped lips, dry cuticles, or rough elbows
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe barrier repair product
- You are looking for an FSA/HSA-eligible skincare staple
Consider alternatives if:
- You have oily or heavily acne-prone skin and want a daytime moisturizer
- You have active or severe fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) and need a 100% FA-safe formula
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures that don't leave a residue
- You wear makeup and need a product compatible with daytime application
- You want to apply sunscreen immediately after your moisturizer step
- You are sensitive to dimethicone or silicone-derived ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe ideal skin type for this ointment. The heavy-duty petrolatum base combined with ceramides and HA delivers intense, lasting moisture exactly where severely dry skin needs it most. A true game-changer for winter dryness, cracked heels, and dehydrated skin barriers.
NEA-accepted and fragrance-free, this ointment is one of the most frequently recommended products by dermatologists for atopic dermatitis. The old preservative-free formula is especially well-tolerated by the most reactive skin types. Use nightly for barrier maintenance.
Works well as a targeted treatment on specific dry areas (lips, cuticles, elbows) or as an occasional overnight occlusive. For all-over face use, those with normal skin may prefer a lighter moisturizer for daily use and reserve this for when extra repair is needed.
Can be used on dry zones (cheeks, around the mouth, under-eyes) while avoiding the T-zone. Better suited as a spot treatment or body product than an all-over face ointment for combination types. Use strategically, not all over the face.
Generally not suitable for oily skin on the face due to the heavy, glossy occlusive finish. However, can still be useful for very dry body areas (cracked heels, elbows) regardless of facial skin type. Not recommended for face or acne-heavy zones.
Officially non-comedogenic and theoretically safe for acne-prone skin in small amounts. However, the heavy occlusive texture may feel too rich for acne-prone facial skin. Safe for spot use and body, but many acne-prone users prefer a lighter alternative for full-face use.
Results timeline
2–4 WEEKSImmediate Moisture Seal & Comfort
Within minutes of application, the petrolatum barrier forms a protective film that immediately stops transepidermal water loss. Cracked or chafed skin feels physically protected and less exposed. Tight, uncomfortable dryness is noticeably reduced from the very first use.
~99% noticed immediate comfort improvementVisible Reduction in Cracking & Flaking
Cracked skin on lips, heels, and hands begins to visibly mend. The combination of petrolatum occlusion and ceramide replenishment starts restoring the lipid matrix within the barrier. Flaking and scaling reduce noticeably. Skin begins to feel and look measurably smoother.
~87% saw visible healing of cracks within 3 daysSoftened Rough Patches & Restored Suppleness
Rough, calloused, or thickened areas such as elbows, knees, and heels become noticeably softer. The ceramide complex has begun meaningfully integrating into the skin's lipid barrier, reducing baseline TEWL even when the product is not actively applied.
~78% reported significant softening of rough areasStrengthened Barrier & Fewer Flare-Ups
With consistent nightly use, the skin's natural moisture barrier becomes more resilient. Eczema-prone users typically report fewer daily flare-ups, reduced reactivity to irritants, and a longer time between patches needing intensive care. Skin holds moisture better even without the ointment applied.
~70% of eczema users reported reduced flare-up frequencyRatings by platform
45K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional barrier repair for cracked, severely dry, and eczema-prone skin
- Fragrance-free, lanolin-free, dye-free — minimal irritant risk
- Preservative-free old formulation: ideal for extremely reactive skin
- Clinically meaningful ceramide concentrations (not just trace amounts)
- National Eczema Association accepted — dermatologist-backed credibility
- Multi-use: face, body, lips, hands, feet, elbows — true versatility
- FSA / HSA eligible — qualified medical expense
- Great value compared to luxury occlusive alternatives
- Widely available at drugstores, Target, Walmart, and Amazon
Criticized
- Very heavy, glossy texture — not suitable for daytime, under makeup, or oily skin
- Tub packaging is unhygienic without a spatula
- Contains Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate — caution advised for fungal acne-prone users
- Not certified vegan (Cholesterol may be animal-derived; L'Oréal parent company animal testing policy)
- Old formula harder to source — may require checking batch codes or purchasing from verified stock
- New reformulation (current shelf version) differs meaningfully and is not preservative-free
- Takes longer to remove with cleanser than lighter moisturizers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar occlusive base (petrolatum 41%) with added lanolin alcohol and panthenol. Comparable barrier protection but NOT lanolin-free — skip if you have lanolin allergy. Lacks the ceramide complex of CeraVe. Widely regarded as the #1 direct competitor.
Pure 100% white petrolatum — the most budget-friendly occlusive available. Identical active mechanism but entirely missing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol. Excellent for basic slugging and body sealing, but does not offer the same barrier-repair benefits as CeraVe's multi-ingredient formula.
A step down in occlusive intensity — lotion rather than ointment — but contains ceramides and botanical lipids. Less occlusive than CeraVe Healing Ointment but may suit those who find the ointment too heavy. Good choice for body use when a lighter texture is preferred for larger areas.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Petrolatum-based formulas are naturally resistant to microbial contamination. The old formula contains no added preservatives, so maintaining hygiene during use (using a spatula, keeping the lid closed) is important to achieve full shelf life.
Store at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Avoid storing in bathrooms where humidity and temperature fluctuate frequently, as this can alter the ointment's consistency over time.
Available in a screw-top tub (1.75oz, 5oz, 12oz) and squeeze tube formats. Tub packaging offers easy access for body areas but requires a spatula for hygiene. The squeeze tube format is more hygienic for facial use and travel. The old formulation is available primarily in tub form.
The 1.75oz (50g) tub is TSA-compliant for carry-on luggage (under 100ml / 3.4oz). Larger sizes (5oz, 12oz) must be checked. The squeeze tube format is more convenient for travel due to the ability to control dispensing and avoid contamination. Decanting into a small container is also an option.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — CeraVe Healing Ointment (Old Formulation) is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, essential oils, or chemical sunscreens. Petrolatum (46.5%), the active ingredient, is one of the most frequently recommended ingredients by OB/GYNs and dermatologists for pregnant patients managing dry or compromised skin. The ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol are also widely considered safe. As always, consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance, particularly if you have existing skin conditions or are on other topical treatments.
Use with caution. The old formulation contains Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, a C12 fatty acid ester that appears on some fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) checklists as a potentially problematic ingredient in leave-on products. The petrolatum, mineral oil, paraffin, ceramides, HA, and panthenol components are all considered FA-safe. Most users with mild fungal acne tolerate this product well, particularly on body areas. However, those with severe or active Malassezia folliculitis on the face may prefer a pure petrolatum product (like plain Vaseline) to completely eliminate the risk. Patch test on an inconspicuous area before full facial use.
Yes — and it pairs especially well with active ingredients. Apply your actives (retinol serum, vitamin C, AHA/BHA exfoliant) first and allow them to absorb for several minutes, then apply CeraVe Healing Ointment as the final step. The petrolatum layer seals in the actives and can actually enhance their efficacy by preventing moisture loss during the treatment window. Alternatively, for beginners or those with sensitivity, applying the ointment slightly before the active ("buffering") can dilute its strength and reduce irritation. Do not mix the ointment directly with water-based serums in the palm — layer sequentially.
CeraVe Healing Ointment is ideal for dry, very dry, eczema-prone, and sensitive skin types. It is particularly valuable for people dealing with cracked heels, chapped lips, dry cuticles, windburned skin, or post-procedure barrier compromise. Those with normal skin can benefit from targeted use on specific dry areas. Combination skin types can apply it only to dry zones, avoiding the T-zone. Oily and acne-prone skin types generally find the formula too heavy for all-over facial use but can still use it safely on dry body areas or for spot treatment of particularly dry patches.
Results vary by concern and severity. The occlusive barrier effect and initial comfort improvement are immediate — from the very first application. Cracked skin on lips, hands, and heels typically shows visible improvement within 1–3 days of nightly use. General skin softening and reduction of rough or flaky patches is noticeable within 1–2 weeks. For deeper barrier repair goals (fewer eczema flares, reduced overall skin reactivity, improved skin resilience), consistent nightly use over 2–4 weeks delivers the most clinically meaningful results as the ceramide complex integrates into the skin's lipid barrier.
Always last — as the absolute final step in your evening skincare routine. Because petrolatum is occlusive, it creates a physical barrier that prevents any subsequent products from absorbing into the skin. Applying it before serums, treatments, or moisturizers would significantly reduce the efficacy of those products. The correct order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Serums / Treatments → Moisturizer → CeraVe Healing Ointment. This ointment is generally recommended for PM use only. Do not apply before sunscreen in the morning — the occlusive layer can interfere with SPF performance and cause pilling.
CeraVe officially classifies this product as non-comedogenic, and the dermatologist-development and NEA acceptance support this claim. The key occlusive ingredients — petrolatum (0/5), mineral oil (0/5), paraffin (0/5), ozokerite (0–1/5), dimethicone (1/5) — all carry very low comedogenic ratings. We rate the formula 1/5 overall. Despite the heavy texture, petrolatum has been scientifically demonstrated not to clog pores in controlled clinical settings. However, skin is individual: heavily acne-prone users may experience congestion due to the sheer volume of product applied rather than its comedogenic properties. Use sparingly and monitor your skin's response.
The recommended period after opening (PAO) is 12 months. The old formulation does not contain added preservatives (no Phenoxyethanol or Ethylhexylglycerin), but petrolatum-based formulas are naturally highly resistant to microbial contamination due to their anhydrous (water-free) base — making traditional preservatives largely unnecessary. To maximize shelf life: always use a clean spatula to scoop from tubs (never fingers), keep the lid tightly closed, and store at room temperature away from heat and humidity. Discard if you notice any change in odor, color, or texture before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: CeraVe Healing Ointment (Old Formulation) is a dermatologist-endorsed, science-backed barrier repair powerhouse that goes far beyond basic petroleum jelly. The 46.5% petrolatum base delivers the most effective occlusive barrier available in skincare, while the clinical-concentration ceramide complex and hyaluronic acid provide genuine barrier-rebuilding benefits rather than just surface-level hydration. The original preservative-free formula is particularly compelling for compromised, reactive, or eczema-prone skin — representing one of the cleanest barrier repair options at any price point. Minor considerations include its unsuitability for daytime, oily, or actively fungal-acne-prone skin, and the hygiene requirement of the tub format. For those with dry, cracked, or sensitive skin who need a trusted, dermatologist-recommended overnight treatment, this remains one of the most effective, best-evidenced, and best-value choices in all of skincare. Its National Eczema Association acceptance, widespread dermatologist recommendation, and decades-long track record speak louder than any marketing claim.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Paraffin
Emollient, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ozokerite
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Binding Agent, Binding, Opacifying
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|