Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A watery, essence-like toner powered by 77% Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) Extract — Korea's most loved soothing ingredient. Formulated with 7 types of hyaluronic acid and 11 EWG Green Grade botanicals, it calms redness, restores the skin barrier, and delivers lightweight hydration without a trace of fragrance or irritation. The #1 bestselling facial toner on Amazon.
77% Heartleaf Extract
The highest concentration of Houttuynia Cordata Extract available in a toner — clinically studied for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that visibly calm redness and breakouts.
Texture & feel
SENSORY77% Heartleaf Extract
The highest concentration of Houttuynia Cordata Extract available in a toner — clinically studied for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that visibly calm redness and breakouts.
7 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, and four advanced HA derivatives penetrate at multiple skin depths for comprehensive, long-lasting hydration.
Mildly Acidic pH 5.5–6.0
Optimized to match skin's natural pH, helping to restore balance after cleansing, support the acid mantle, and improve absorption of subsequent skincare steps.
Cica Complex (Centella Asiatica)
Centella Asiatica Extract delivers madecassoside and asiaticoside — proven wound-healing and barrier-strengthening compounds that reduce sensitivity and repair damaged skin.
11 EWG Green Grade Botanicals
Every active ingredient — chamomile, purslane, grape fruit, burdock root, mushroom extract, chaste tree — is rated EWG Green, meaning no known harmful effects and food-grade safety standards.
Zero Harsh Additives
Completely free from fragrance, essential oils, drying alcohols, parabens, silicones, sulfates, and common allergens. Safe for daily use by even the most reactive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All ingredients are plant-derived humectants and botanical extracts considered safe during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal guidance.
Formula contains no fatty acids, polysorbates, fermented actives, or Pityrosporum-feeding esters. Glycerin, betaine, and panthenol are all confirmed fungal-acne safe. Safe to use on active malassezia folliculitis.
No oils, waxes, or pore-clogging emollients. The watery, oil-free formula has been non-comedogenic tested and is suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Free from added fragrance, essential oils, and the top common contact allergens. Rated 91%+ top allergen free by independent testing. Suitable for reactive and rosacea-affected skin.
Contains no drying alcohols (ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, denatured alcohol). The formula uses skin-friendly solvents like 1,2-Hexanediol and Butylene Glycol at safe concentrations.
When combining with retinol or tretinoin, apply this toner first and allow it to absorb. Its panthenol and centella content help buffer retinoid irritation without deactivating the active.
Safe to layer before or after low-concentration exfoliating acids. The mildly acidic pH (5.5–6.0) will not deactivate AHAs or BHAs and may even slightly enhance their activity.
No animal-derived ingredients. Anua is a certified cruelty-free Korean skincare brand that does not test on animals and does not sell in mainland China (which mandates animal testing).
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHouttuynia Cordata (Heartleaf) Extract 77%Proven
The undisputed hero of this formula. At 77%, Heartleaf Extract is the highest-concentration active ingredient in any mainstream K-beauty toner. Sourced from Korean-grown heartleaf, it delivers powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity directly to sensitized, breakout-prone skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Rich in flavonoids (quercetin, apigenin, rutin) that inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines, calming visible redness and swelling.
- Antimicrobial: Studies show houttuynia cordata extract inhibits the growth of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the primary acne-causing bacteria.
- Antioxidant: Polysaccharides and polyphenols in the extract neutralize free radicals, protecting skin from environmental stressors.
- Hydrating: Polysaccharides act as humectants, drawing and retaining moisture in the skin's upper layers.
7-Type Hyaluronic Acid Complex Multi-weightProven
The updated formula features seven distinct forms of hyaluronic acid — each with a different molecular weight — enabling hydration to be delivered at the surface, mid-layer, and deeper levels of the epidermis simultaneously for comprehensive moisture retention.
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Low molecular weight HA; penetrates deeper into the stratum corneum for internal hydration.
- Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid: Smallest fragments for rapid surface absorption and plumping.
- Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate: Super HA with 2× the moisture retention of standard HA; forms a flexible film on skin.
- Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate: Cationic HA with improved skin adhesion, especially effective over time.
- Potassium Hyaluronate: Salt form of HA; improves spreadability and skin compatibility.
- Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: Crosslinked HA for sustained-release, long-lasting hydration effects.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) HumectantProven
Panthenol converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, supporting lipid synthesis, strengthening the skin barrier, and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It has both humectant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for post-active skin recovery.
- Barrier repair: Stimulates keratinocyte proliferation and supports natural lipid production for a stronger skin barrier.
- Anti-inflammatory: Clinically shown to reduce irritation caused by other ingredients, including fragrance and chemical actives.
- Comedogenicity: 0 — completely non-pore-clogging.
Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica) SoothingProven
One of the most clinically-validated soothing ingredients in dermatology. The centella in this formula contains key triterpenoids — madecassoside, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid — known for wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and collagen-stimulating effects.
- Wound healing: Madecassoside accelerates the repair of damaged skin barrier and micro-injuries from active acne.
- Collagen synthesis: Stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen types I and III, helping fade acne scars over time.
- Anti-irritant: Reduces redness and discomfort associated with sensitive and reactive skin conditions.
Glycerin + Betaine HumectantsProven
This duo forms the hydration backbone of the formula. Glycerin is one of the most effective humectants known to cosmetic science, while betaine — derived from sugar beets — adds additional moisture-drawing capacity with a notable skin-softening and anti-inflammatory benefit.
- Glycerin: Binds up to 10× its weight in water; supports skin barrier function by increasing water content of the stratum corneum.
- Betaine: Osmolyte that stabilizes skin cells under stress (heat, pollution, UV), reducing oxidative damage in addition to hydrating.
24 ingredients
Heartleaf Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract (77%), Purified Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Isopentyldiol, Panthenol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Centella Asiatica Extract, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, Phellinus Linteus (Mushroom) Extract, Portulaca Oleracea (Purslane) Extract, Matricaria (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Vitex Agnus-Castus (Chaste Tree) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Potassium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply immediately after cleansing on damp skin for maximum absorption. For a toner mask, soak two cotton pads and leave on for 3–5 minutes as an instant hydration boost.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove sunscreen, makeup, and impurities. Pat skin with a clean towel — leave slightly damp for best toner absorption.
Dispense & Apply
Shake the bottle gently, then pour a quarter-sized amount into your palms or onto a cotton pad. The formula is thin and watery — a little goes a long way.
Press & Pat Into Skin
Gently press and pat the toner into your face and neck using your hands. Avoid rubbing — patting increases absorption and reduces irritation. Work from center outward.
Layer for Extra Hydration (Optional)
For an extra hydration boost, apply 2–3 successive layers in the 7-skin method. Each layer should be fully absorbed before the next is applied. Ideal for dry skin days or post-exfoliation skin.
Toner Mask Technique (Optional)
Soak two cotton pads thoroughly and press onto forehead, cheeks, and chin for 3–5 minutes. Remove and follow immediately with serum and moisturizer. Use 2–3 times per week for intensive calming.
Follow with Serum & Moisturizer
Continue your routine with essence, serum, and a moisturizer. Because this toner is a lightweight humectant, always seal with an occlusive or emollient to lock in the hydration it delivers.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin is sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone
- You struggle with acne, breakouts, or post-acne inflammation
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy daily toner
- You use retinol or chemical exfoliants and need a soothing buffer
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) or are FA-safety conscious
- You want to layer products using the 7-skin method
- You have oily or combination skin that can't tolerate heavy products
Consider alternatives if:
- You need active exfoliation — this toner does not contain AHAs or BHAs
- You have very dry skin and need rich, emollient hydration from your toner
- You are looking for brightening from niacinamide or vitamin C in your toner step
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or growth factors in toner form
- You prefer thicker, gel-like or milky toner textures
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCompletely oil-free and water-based — absorbs instantly without adding any shine or heaviness. Helps regulate excess sebum appearance over time thanks to the astringent properties of heartleaf and burdock root.
Seven types of hyaluronic acid deliver meaningful hydration, but the formula lacks emollients and occlusives. Very dry skin users should follow with a rich moisturizer or facial oil to seal in hydration. The 7-skin layering method helps.
The ideal skin type for this toner. The watery formula hydrates dry patches without overloading oily zones. pH-balancing properties help regulate the T-zone while soothing drier areas of the face simultaneously.
This toner was essentially designed for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, allergen-free, low-irritation formula with panthenol, centella, and chamomile soothes reactive skin. Rated 91%+ allergen-free by independent labs.
Non-comedogenic tested, fungal-acne safe, and heartleaf's documented antimicrobial activity directly targets acne-causing bacteria. Centella asiatica accelerates post-acne healing and fades marks over time.
The 7-HA complex supports plumpness and hydration, and centella asiatica stimulates collagen synthesis. However, mature skin needing dedicated anti-aging actives will want to layer targeted serums after this toner.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Soothing & Redness Reduction
Most users report noticeably calmer skin, reduced flushing, and relief from tightness within the first few applications. The 77% heartleaf extract starts working immediately to suppress inflammation at the skin surface.
89% noticed calmer skin within 3 daysImproved Hydration & Balanced Oil-Moisture
Skin begins to feel consistently softer and more hydrated throughout the day. The pH-balancing effect helps normalize sebum production in the T-zone. Breakout frequency begins to decrease for acne-prone users.
82% reported improved hydration at 2 weeksSmoother Texture & Fewer Breakouts
Continued use reveals a smoother, more even skin surface. Bumpy texture related to congestion and sebum plugs begins to improve. Existing breakouts heal faster with less post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
76% saw smoother texture at 4 weeksClearer, More Even-Toned Complexion
With consistent daily use, users report a noticeably clearer complexion, reduced visible pores, and a more even skin tone. Centella asiatica's collagen-stimulating effect contributes to gradual fading of acne scars and an overall healthier skin barrier.
71% reported significantly clearer skin at 2 monthsRatings by platform
17K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extraordinary 77% heartleaf concentration — highest on market
- 7 types of hyaluronic acid for deep, layered hydration
- Completely fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Generous 250ml size at an accessible price ($23)
- Works perfectly as a retinol buffer toner
- Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, pregnancy safe
- Noticeable results for sensitive and acne-prone skin
- #1 bestselling toner on Amazon — widespread community validation
- Fast-absorbing; no sticky or greasy residue
Criticized
- Insufficient on its own for very dry or dehydrated skin
- Hard plastic bottle requires shaking to dispense (no squeeze)
- Mild formula may feel too gentle for those used to active-heavy toners
- Some users with highly reactive skin reported initial stinging (likely 1,2-Hexanediol sensitivity)
- No exfoliating, brightening, or dedicated anti-aging actives
- Results are gradual — expect 3–4 weeks for visible improvement
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Centella-focused watery toner with a similar soothing, lightweight profile. Lower active concentration (no single dominant extract at 77%) but strong madecassoside and asiaticoside content. Equally fragrance-free and FA-safe. Best for those who want a pure cica focus without heartleaf.
One of the most popular drugstore-accessible K-beauty toners. Uses centella asiatica water as its main base instead of heartleaf, delivering comparable soothing benefits. Thinner texture, smaller 150ml bottle, but significantly lower price. Ideal as a starter option before committing to Anua.
Green tea and centella-based toner with a similar fragrance-free, calming philosophy. 200ml size and comparable pH range. Less concentrated in terms of a single hero active, but a well-rounded botanical formula with antioxidant-rich green tea extract. Good alternative for those looking for broader antioxidant benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Calming Toner
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The formula contains 1,2-Hexanediol as a preservative booster, which ensures stability throughout this period. Discard if color, smell, or texture changes.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving in hot environments (car, bathroom with steam). Refrigerating is optional but can enhance the cooling and soothing sensation on application.
Clear rigid plastic bottle with a snap-open disc cap. Because the plastic is firm, shake the bottle to dispense product rather than squeezing. Hygienic and spill-resistant for daily bathroom use.
The full 250ml bottle exceeds airline carry-on liquid limits (100ml). Available in a 30ml mini size which is fully TSA/airport compliant. The main bottle is ideal for checked luggage or home use.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical UV filters, and no essential oils or fragrance compounds that are typically flagged as concerns during pregnancy. All 24 ingredients are plant-based extracts, humectants, or standard cosmetic preservation agents at safe concentrations. As always, every pregnancy is different, and we recommend consulting your obstetrician or midwife before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Yes — this toner is fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fatty acids (C11–C24), no polysorbate esters, no fermented actives, and no Pityrosporum yeast-feeding ingredients. Key ingredients like glycerin, betaine, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and all botanical extracts are considered FA-safe by the community and leading ingredient analysis tools. The Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is widely recommended in fungal-acne communities as a go-to daily toner.
Yes, and it's actually one of the best toners to pair with these actives. With retinol or tretinoin: apply the Heartleaf Toner first and allow it to fully absorb. The panthenol and centella asiatica content helps buffer irritation and support barrier recovery, making retinol more tolerable — a technique sometimes called "buffering." With vitamin C: apply the toner first, wait, then apply your vitamin C serum. There are no ingredient interactions to worry about. With AHAs and BHAs: apply the toner after exfoliating, or use it as a calming step between actives to reduce post-exfoliation sensitivity. The mildly acidic pH (5.5–6.0) is compatible with and will not deactivate most acid actives.
This toner was specifically designed — and performs best — for sensitive, acne-prone, and oily-to-combination skin. The oil-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula won't aggravate breakouts or trigger redness, while the 77% heartleaf extract actively reduces inflammation and antimicrobial activity targets acne bacteria. Combination and oily skin types see excellent results. It works well for dry skin too, especially when layered using the 7-skin method, though those with very dry skin may want a heavier moisturizer to follow. Mature skin can benefit from the hydration and centella collagen support, but will want to pair it with dedicated anti-aging actives.
Most users notice soothing effects — reduced redness, calmer skin, less tightness — within the first 1–3 applications. Meaningful hydration improvements typically show by the end of week 1–2 with twice-daily use. For clearer skin and reduced breakout frequency, expect 3–4 weeks of consistent daily use. Longer-term benefits like improved skin texture, fewer enlarged pores, and faded acne marks from centella's collagen-stimulating effect are generally visible after 6–8 weeks. The toner works most effectively as a consistent part of a daily routine rather than occasional use.
Apply this toner as Step 2 in your routine — immediately after cleansing, before any serums, essences, or moisturizers. For maximum absorption, apply to skin that is still slightly damp from cleansing. You can use it in the morning (AM) and evening (PM). In the morning, follow with serum, moisturizer, and SPF. In the evening, follow with any treatment actives (retinol, acids), then serum and moisturizer. It can also be used in the 7-skin layering method — apply 2–3 thin layers, each fully absorbed before the next, for an intensive pre-serum hydration boost.
No — the Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, the lowest possible score. The formula contains zero oils, waxes, or fatty-acid-rich emollients that commonly clog pores. Every ingredient — including the humectants (glycerin, betaine, hyaluronic acid), the botanical extracts, and the preservatives — has a comedogenicity rating of 0 or 1. The product has been tested and certified non-comedogenic, and is widely used by members of the acne-prone and oily skin communities without triggering breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for the Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is 12 months. The formula uses 1,2-Hexanediol and Disodium EDTA as preservative boosters to maintain stability and prevent microbial contamination throughout this period. For a 250ml bottle used twice daily (approximately 2–3ml per use, twice per day), expect the bottle to last roughly 6–8 weeks with generous application. If you use the toner for cotton pad masks or multiple layers, the bottle will go faster. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat, to maximize shelf life.
Verdict: The Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner earns its status as the #1 bestselling facial toner on Amazon — not through hype, but through a genuinely smart, science-backed formula. At 77% Houttuynia Cordata Extract, it delivers more heartleaf per drop than virtually any competitor. The updated 7-type hyaluronic acid complex adds meaningful multi-depth hydration, while panthenol and centella asiatica provide real barrier repair benefits. It is fragrance-free, fungal-acne safe, pregnancy safe, and non-comedogenic — a rare combination of safety credentials that makes it uniquely accessible. Its greatest strength is also its niche: it excels at calming, soothing, and hydrating, making it the ideal daily toner for anyone with sensitive, acne-prone, or reactive skin. It won't replace your actives, but as a daily foundation for a calm, balanced complexion, it is genuinely difficult to beat at this price point.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|