Holy Hydration! Keep Your Balance Toner
Holy Hydration! Keep Your Balance Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, water-based daily toner from e.l.f. Cosmetics' Holy Hydration! line, formulated with Sodium Hyaluronate, Witch Hazel Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, and a blend of Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs) including urea, amino acids, and sugars. Designed to gently remove post-cleanse impurities, restore hydration, and prep skin to better absorb subsequent skincare steps — all at a budget-friendly price point.
Multi-Humectant Hydration
Combines Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, and sugar molecules (Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose) to draw moisture from the air into the skin and lock it in throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMulti-Humectant Hydration
Combines Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, and sugar molecules (Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose) to draw moisture from the air into the skin and lock it in throughout the day.
Witch Hazel + Aloe Soothing Duo
Hamamelis Virginiana Water (Witch Hazel) gently tones and tightens pores while Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract calms redness and irritation, leaving skin refreshed and balanced post-cleanse.
Natural Moisturizing Factor Complex
Includes urea, amino acids (Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Alanine), and Dextrin — key components of the skin's own NMF system that help reinforce the moisture barrier and improve skin texture.
Affordable Luxury Format
Delivers a generous 150 ml bottle packed with proven skincare actives at a fraction of the price of comparable K-beauty or pharmacy toners — making daily use accessible to everyone.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present. However, the formula contains Alcohol (ethanol) as the second ingredient and Parfum (fragrance). Dermatologists generally advise limiting alcohol-based and fragranced toners during pregnancy. Consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use.
The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia. It is considered fungal acne safe. Witch Hazel and Aloe may even help calm fungal acne-related irritation.
No known pore-clogging oils or heavy occlusive ingredients. PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is present in a minor emulsifying role at a low concentration and is not considered comedogenic at typical usage levels in toners.
Double-certified cruelty-free by both Leaping Bunny and PETA. 100% vegan formula — no animal-derived ingredients. Also manufactured in Fair Trade Certified™ facilities.
e.l.f. voluntarily removes over 1,600 EU-restricted ingredients and goes beyond FDA requirements. No parabens, sulfates, phthalates, triclosan, triclocarban, nonylphenol ethoxylates, or hydroquinone.
Alcohol is the second ingredient on the INCI list, which means it's present at a notable concentration. While it contributes to lightweight texture and astringency, it may cause dryness or irritation for those with very dry, compromised, or eczema-prone skin. Patch test recommended.
The formula includes Parfum (listed as the last ingredient, so likely at very low concentration). Fragrance can trigger reactions in highly sensitive or reactive skin types. Those with fragrance allergies or rosacea should patch test first.
A niacinamide derivative that may mildly increase blood circulation and improve the delivery of other actives. Present in low concentrations. Generally well-tolerated, but those with very reactive or rosacea-prone skin should be aware of its vasodilating properties.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) ~0.1–1%Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid — a smaller molecular weight form that can penetrate more effectively than standard HA. Acts as a powerful humectant, drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it visibly plump and hydrated.
- Function: Humectant — holds up to 1,000x its weight in water within the skin layers.
- Benefit: Visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration and improves skin elasticity with consistent use.
- Research: Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm topical HA improves skin hydration, smoothness, and barrier function within 2–4 weeks of regular use.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water ~2–5%Proven
A water-based extract from the bark and leaves of the Witch Hazel plant. Acts as a natural astringent and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to minimize the appearance of pores, remove excess sebum, and soothe irritated skin without being overly drying in water form.
- Function: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant.
- Benefit: Temporarily tightens pores, reduces redness, and controls excess oil, particularly in the T-zone.
- Note: This product uses Witch Hazel Water (aqueous extract), which is gentler than Witch Hazel with alcohol. Tannins and polyphenols provide the antioxidant benefit.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract ~1–3%Proven
One of the most well-researched botanical skin-calming ingredients. Rich in polysaccharides, vitamins (A, C, E), enzymes, and minerals that soothe, hydrate, and support barrier recovery. Particularly effective on irritated, sun-exposed, or post-exfoliation skin.
- Function: Humectant, soothing agent, antioxidant, wound-supportive.
- Benefit: Reduces redness and inflammation, accelerates skin recovery, enhances moisture retention.
- Research: Clinical studies confirm Aloe vera's efficacy in improving skin hydration and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Glycerin ~2–5%Proven
One of the most widely used and well-proven humectants in skincare. Draws moisture from both the air and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum. Also exhibits antimicrobial and antiviral properties and supports wound healing.
- Function: Humectant, emollient, skin-conditioning agent.
- Benefit: Keeps skin soft, plump, and hydrated; strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier with continued use.
- Research: Extensively validated in dermatological literature as safe and effective across all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone.
Urea ~0.5–2%Proven
A key component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), urea is both a humectant and a gentle keratolytic (exfoliant at higher concentrations). At lower toner-level concentrations, it primarily moisturizes, softens rough texture, and supports barrier integrity without causing exfoliation.
- Function: Humectant, NMF component, mild keratolytic at higher concentrations.
- Benefit: Smooths skin texture, supports hydration retention, and helps the skin better absorb subsequent actives.
- Note: At concentrations below 5%, urea behaves purely as a moisturizer — no exfoliation occurs at toner-level doses.
NMF Sugar Complex (Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose) ~0.5–1% combinedPromising
A trio of simple sugars that function as humectants and water-binding agents in the skin. They mimic the composition of the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor, helping the skin retain moisture and stay balanced throughout the day.
- Function: Humectants, NMF-mimicking agents, osmolytes.
- Benefit: Support long-lasting hydration and protect skin cells against osmotic stress.
Amino Acid Complex (Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Alanine) ~trace–0.5% eachPromising
Three non-essential amino acids that serve as building blocks of skin proteins like collagen and elastin. Act as humectants and skin-conditioning agents while also contributing to the skin's NMF. Glutamic Acid additionally helps buffer the formula's pH.
- Function: Humectants, skin-conditioning, pH-buffering (Glutamic Acid), collagen/elastin precursors.
- Benefit: Improve moisture retention, support structural protein synthesis, and contribute to overall skin smoothness.
Hexyl Nicotinate ~tracePromising
A niacinamide (Vitamin B3) derivative and ester that acts as an emollient and mild vasodilator. Increases microcirculation in the skin, potentially enhancing the penetration of other actives. May contribute to a subtle brightening effect over time.
- Function: Emollient, vasodilator, penetration enhancer.
- Benefit: May improve local blood flow and enhance absorption of co-applied actives like Hyaluronic Acid.
28 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Hexyl Nicotinate, Alanine, Dextrin, Urea, Coceth-7, PPG-1-PEG-9 Lauryl Glycol Ether, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Citrate, Disodium EDTA, Benzoic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance (Parfum)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply immediately after cleansing on damp or dry skin. Always follow with moisturizer to seal in hydration — especially important given the alcohol content.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type. Pat your face mostly dry or leave slightly damp — a damp face helps dilute the alcohol content slightly and improves humectant absorption.
Apply to a Cotton Pad
Saturate a cotton pad with a small amount of toner. Alternatively, pour a few drops into your palms for the 7-skin method layering technique, which reduces product waste.
Sweep Over Face & Neck
Using the soaked cotton pad, gently sweep the toner across your face and neck in upward strokes. Avoid the delicate eye area. The toner will remove any remaining traces of cleanser or impurities.
Allow to Absorb (20–30 Seconds)
Let the toner fully absorb before applying your next product. It dries quickly thanks to the lightweight, watery formula — you should not feel any tackiness or residue.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always follow with a moisturizer to lock in the humectants delivered by the toner. Skipping moisturizer after an alcohol-containing toner can lead to moisture evaporation and dryness over time.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin and want a lightweight, non-greasy toner
- You're new to toners and want an accessible, affordable entry-level option
- You want to prep your skin for better serum and moisturizer absorption
- You prefer a vegan, cruelty-free, and clean formula
- You're looking for a non-comedogenic daily toner for acne-prone skin
- You want witch hazel benefits without a heavy astringent toner
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (alcohol may worsen dryness)
- You have eczema, rosacea, or severely compromised skin barrier
- You are fragrance-sensitive or have confirmed fragrance allergies
- You want a completely alcohol-free toner formula
- You are looking for exfoliating actives (AHA/BHA/PHA) in your toner
- You prefer a toner with high-dose niacinamide or brightening actives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice — Witch Hazel controls shine, tightens pores, and the lightweight watery formula won't add any greasiness. Alcohol content suits oily skin well.
Excellent balance — controls oily zones while the humectant complex (HA, Glycerin, NMF sugars) keeps drier areas comfortable and hydrated.
Works well as a daily prep toner. The multi-humectant formula maintains balanced hydration without disrupting normal skin function.
Use with caution. The alcohol (2nd ingredient) may worsen dryness. If using, always follow immediately with a rich moisturizer. May prefer an alcohol-free alternative.
Contains alcohol and Parfum — both potential irritants for reactive skin. Patch test on inner arm for 24–48 hours before full-face application. Aloe and Witch Hazel Water are soothing positives.
Fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic (1/5), and the Witch Hazel helps keep pores clear. Alcohol acts as an antimicrobial agent, reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin surface.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Refreshing & Cleansing Sensation
Upon first application, skin feels immediately refreshed, cooled, and cleaner. The Witch Hazel Water and Aloe create a light tingling sensation followed by a calming effect. Any remaining traces of cleanser or makeup are visibly removed by the cotton pad.
100% noticedImproved Texture & Skin Prep
Skin begins to feel smoother and more receptive to subsequent skincare products. The NMF complex (urea, amino acids, sugars) starts improving the texture of the stratum corneum. Pores may appear slightly less prominent in the T-zone area thanks to Witch Hazel.
~70% noticedBalanced Hydration & Softness
With consistent twice-daily use, most users report a noticeable improvement in skin softness and hydration balance. The Hyaluronic Acid and multi-humectant complex provide cumulative moisturizing benefits, especially when sealed with a moisturizer afterward.
~60% noticedSustained Skin Balance & Routine Optimization
Long-term consistent use helps maintain a well-balanced complexion. Skin becomes better conditioned to absorb active ingredients from serums and moisturizers applied afterward. Those with oily skin see sustained reduction in midday shine.
~50% noticedRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — generous 150 ml bottle at ~$10–12
- Leaves skin feeling instantly refreshed and cleansed
- Lightweight, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing formula
- Witch Hazel visibly tightens pores and reduces T-zone shine
- Impressive multi-humectant NMF complex for the price point
- 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and Fair Trade Certified™
- Free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and 1,600+ restricted ingredients
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Great skin prep — serums and moisturizers layer beautifully on top
Criticized
- Alcohol is the second ingredient — not ideal for dry or sensitive skin
- Contains Parfum — a risk for fragrance-sensitive users
- Open-pour bottle opening wastes product on cotton pads
- Not suitable as a standalone hydrating toner for very dry skin types
- Some users experience dryness and irritation with regular use
- No exfoliating actives (AHA/BHA) for those seeking added skin renewal
- Confusing positioning — marketed as hydrating despite high alcohol content
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Most ingredient-similar dupe with 69% INCI overlap. Contains Aloe and Glycolic Acid (5%) for added exfoliation, plus Witch Hazel and no Parfum. Better for those wanting gentle exfoliation + toning in one step, but at a slightly higher price. Not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20.
A classic witch hazel toner with Aloe vera and Rose Water. No alcohol and fragrance-free option available. Simpler formula without the NMF sugar/amino acid complex but is gentler for sensitive and dry skin types. Much larger bottle for the same price — excellent value.
Alcohol-free and fragrance-free formula with panthenol and allantoin — better suited for sensitive, reactive, or dry skin looking for hydration without astringency. Fewer active ingredients but an extremely gentle profile. Ideal for those who love the e.l.f. concept but can't tolerate alcohol.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizing Lotion Toner
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging to confirm. Use within this timeframe for optimal efficacy and safety of the preservative system (Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol).
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing in humid environments such as shower shelves. Keep lid tightly closed after each use to prevent contamination and evaporation of the alcohol base.
Flat-capped plastic bottle with a standard open-pour opening. Requires cotton pads for application — some users note this leads to product waste. No spray mechanism or pump. Available in 150 ml (full size) and 30 ml (mini travel size).
The 30 ml mini size is TSA-friendly and under the 100 ml airline liquid limit. The full-size 150 ml bottle exceeds TSA carry-on limits — pack in checked luggage or purchase the mini for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula does not contain any classically pregnancy-restricted ingredients such as retinoids, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or hydroquinone. However, the toner contains Alcohol (ethanol) as the second ingredient and Parfum (fragrance). Both are generally advised against or recommended with caution during pregnancy by dermatologists, as alcohol can contribute to barrier disruption and fragrance may cause sensitivities. As with any skincare product during pregnancy or breastfeeding, consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before adding this to your routine. Many pregnant users opt for alcohol-free, fragrance-free toner alternatives for extra precaution.
Yes — this toner is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula does not contain any fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters of fatty acids, polysorbates, plant oils, or other substrates known to feed Malassezia yeast. The Witch Hazel Water and Alcohol content may actually help reduce surface microorganisms. The humectants (Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol) and NMF ingredients are all non-problematic for fungal acne. This makes it an excellent toner option for those managing fungal acne or acne-prone, breakout-prone skin.
Yes, this toner is generally compatible with these actives, but timing and order matter. Apply this toner immediately post-cleanse, then wait for it to fully absorb (30–60 seconds) before layering actives. When using AHA or BHA exfoliants in your routine, consider using them on separate evenings to avoid over-exfoliation, since the alcohol in this toner can enhance penetration. With retinol (Vitamin A) and Vitamin C, apply this toner first as a prep step, then follow with the active and moisturizer. Avoid mixing directly on skin with high-concentration vitamin C actives due to potential pH conflict — allow the toner to dry first.
This toner is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The Witch Hazel Water acts as a gentle astringent to control excess sebum and tighten the appearance of enlarged pores. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding any greasiness. The multi-humectant complex (Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, sugars, amino acids) balances the astringent action with hydration. Dry skin types should use with caution due to the alcohol content, and very sensitive or reactive skin types should patch test first due to both the alcohol and Parfum. People with eczema or rosacea are advised to seek an alcohol-free, fragrance-free alternative.
Results vary by skin type and concern. Most users feel immediate results from the first use — skin feels refreshed, cleaner, and more balanced right away. Pore-appearance improvement from the Witch Hazel is typically noticed within the first 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Hydration improvement and skin texture smoothing (from the NMF complex) become more apparent after 3–4 weeks of twice-daily use. Long-term benefits — such as improved absorption of subsequent skincare products — build over weeks and months of consistent use. Always follow with a moisturizer to maximize and sustain the hydration benefits.
This toner is a Step 2 product in your routine — it goes immediately after cleansing (Step 1) and before serums, essences, and moisturizers. The correct layering order is: Cleanser → This Toner → Serums/Essences → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → SPF (AM only). Apply with a cotton pad or pour into clean palms and press into skin. Wait 20–30 seconds for full absorption before proceeding with your next product. It can be used both morning and evening as part of your daily double-cleanse routine.
No — this toner is considered non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula is free from known pore-clogging oils, heavy waxes, or occlusive butters. PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is present as a minor solubilizer at very low concentrations where it does not exhibit comedogenic properties. The Witch Hazel Water and alcohol content actually help reduce the likelihood of pore congestion. This makes it a good choice for acne-prone skin. As always, individual skin responses vary — if you notice any new breakouts after introducing a new product, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this toner is 12 months. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging — it will show "12M" indicating 12 months of safe use after opening. The preservative system (Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Benzoic Acid) is well-suited for this aqueous alcohol-based formula. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Avoid contaminating the bottle by keeping the cap tightly closed and never pouring unused product back into the bottle from a cotton pad. The 150 ml bottle used twice daily should last approximately 2–3 months, well within the PAO window.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Keep Your Balance Toner delivers impressive value for its price point, offering a well-thought-out multi-humectant formula with Sodium Hyaluronate, Witch Hazel Water, Aloe Extract, and a genuine NMF complex (urea, amino acids, sugars) that goes well beyond typical budget-brand ingredient lists. Foroily, combination, and acne-prone skin types, it excels — refreshing, balancing, and prepping the skin beautifully for subsequent steps. The alcohol-as-second-ingredient is a legitimate concern for dry or sensitive skin users, and the inclusion of Parfum limits its universal appeal. But for its target audience — everyday users seeking an affordable, vegan, cruelty-free daily toner — it consistently delivers. The fact that it's fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and free from 1,600+ restricted ingredients makes it a smart, accessible choice in a crowded toner market.
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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Alcohol
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Masking, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|