Hyalu-Cica First Ampoule
Hyalu-Cica First Ampoule
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, ultra-watery "Step 0" first ampoule powered by 92% Madagascar Centella Asiatica extract and a 5-layer hyaluronic acid complex. Applied immediately after cleansing, it delivers an instant surge of deep hydration, calms sensitivity, strengthens the skin barrier, and supercharges absorption of every subsequent skincare step.
5-Layer Hyaluronic Acid System
Five distinct molecular weights of HA — including Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, and Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid — penetrate skin at different depths to deliver multi-level, long-lasting moisture retention.
Texture & feel
SENSORY5-Layer Hyaluronic Acid System
Five distinct molecular weights of HA — including Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, and Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid — penetrate skin at different depths to deliver multi-level, long-lasting moisture retention.
92% Madagascar Centella Asiatica
Sourced exclusively from Madagascar and cultivated across 17 controlled regions, this high-concentration cica extract soothes inflammation, reinforces the skin barrier, and promotes natural skin recovery.
COMPARAX™ Fine-Particle Technology
SKIN1004's proprietary delivery system breaks actives into ultra-fine particles that penetrate deep into the skin rapidly — providing immediate relief from post-cleanse tightness and dryness.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
A multitasking powerhouse that visibly minimizes pores, smooths uneven texture, gently brightens dullness, and supports the skin's natural lipid barrier — adding anti-aging and brightening benefits to the formula.
Birch Sap & Ivy Extract
Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (birch sap) is rich in minerals and amino acids that deeply hydrate and firm. Hedera Helix (ivy) extract tightens and tones, helping to visibly refine the look of pores.
Step 0 Booster Concept
Designed to be used immediately after cleansing — before toner — to prevent moisture evaporation and prime the skin so every subsequent product (toner, serum, cream) absorbs more effectively and delivers better results.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. The formula relies on Centella Asiatica, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide — all widely considered safe for topical use during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine.
Contains Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, an ester-based emollient that Malassezia yeast can potentially feed on. If you have active fungal acne (folliculitis), patch test carefully or opt for a fully FA-safe alternative. Most other ingredients are FA-safe.
This water-based, oil-free ampoule is rated 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. Key ingredients like hyaluronic acid, centella extract, and glycerin are all non-pore-clogging, making it suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Completed dermatologist-led skin irritation testing and is certified safe for sensitive skin. Free from artificial fragrances, parabens, harsh sulfates, and drying alcohols. The 92% Centella Asiatica base actively reduces inflammation and redness.
Free from denatured alcohol (alcohol denat.), SD alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol — common culprits of dryness and irritation. Safe for daily use on compromised or reactive skin without risk of barrier disruption.
The product carries a light, pleasant scent that comes entirely from its botanical ingredients (Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Ocimum Sanctum, etc.) rather than artificial fragrance additives. Highly fragrance-sensitive users should still patch test.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica Extract 92%Proven
The cornerstone of the entire formula, present at an exceptionally high 92% concentration. Sourced exclusively from SKIN1004's own certified cultivation farms across 17 regions in Madagascar, this extract contains four key bioactive compounds — asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid (collectively known as centellosides) — that deliver powerful anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and barrier-fortifying benefits.
- Anti-inflammatory: Centellosides inhibit inflammatory pathways and reduce redness, making it ideal for reactive, acne-prone, and post-procedure skin.
- Barrier Repair: Stimulates glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis including hyaluronic acid in the skin, strengthening the extracellular matrix and improving barrier integrity.
- Collagen Stimulation: Asiaticoside has been shown in peer-reviewed studies to promote collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines over time.
- Soothing: Traditionally used for centuries in Southeast Asian medicine for wound healing and eczema relief — now clinically validated for dermatological use.
5-Layer Hyaluronic Acid Complex Multi-weight HAProven
The formula incorporates three distinct HA forms — Sodium Hyaluronate (100.5ppm, high molecular weight), Hyaluronic Acid (500ppb, medium molecular weight), and Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (500ppb, low molecular weight) — working in concert with butylene glycol and glycerin to provide a multi-depth hydration cascade from the surface to deeper epidermal layers.
- Sodium Hyaluronate (High MW): Sits on the skin surface, forming a moisture-trapping film that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and leaves skin feeling immediately plump and soft.
- Hyaluronic Acid (Medium MW): Penetrates into the upper epidermal layers, binding water within the stratum corneum for hours-long hydration.
- Hydrolyzed HA (Low MW): The smallest fragments penetrate deepest into the skin to deliver hydration where it matters most and support the skin's own HA production.
- Water-holding capacity: HA can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water — making even trace concentrations impactful for skin plumpness and elasticity.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Est. 2–5%Proven
Listed as the third ingredient, niacinamide appears at a meaningful concentration within the formula. This water-soluble vitamin is one of the most extensively studied skincare actives, offering a wide spectrum of dermatological benefits that complement the hydrating and soothing action of the Centella and HA complex.
- Barrier Strengthening: Increases ceramide and fatty acid synthesis in the skin's outer layers, directly improving skin barrier integrity and reducing moisture loss.
- Brightening: Inhibits the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes, gradually fading hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone with consistent use.
- Pore Minimizing: Clinically shown to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and improve skin texture with 8–12 weeks of regular use.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines, making it beneficial for acne-prone and rosacea-affected skin.
Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (Birch Sap) Trace–LowPromising
Korean white birch sap is a natural, mineral-rich hydrating agent that has been used in traditional East Asian wellness practices. It replaces or supplements water in the formula, bringing along its own profile of amino acids, polysaccharides, and minerals that enhance skin conditioning and hydration beyond plain water.
- Rich in amino acids: Birch sap contains a variety of free amino acids that function as natural moisturizing factors (NMFs), helping the skin maintain optimal water content.
- Mineral content: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc contribute to a soothing, nourishing effect on the skin surface.
- Antioxidant properties: Contains betulin and betulinic acid, natural antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental free radical damage.
Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract Trace–LowPromising
Common ivy extract is a botanical ingredient with a long history in European herbal medicine, prized for its toning, firming, and anti-inflammatory properties. In the context of this ampoule, it contributes to the overall soothing effect and helps visibly refine pore appearance through mild astringency.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains hederacoside C and alpha-hederin, bioactive saponins with documented anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Skin toning: Mild astringent properties help temporarily tighten and firm skin, contributing to the fresh, toned feeling after application.
- Pore refinement: Helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores when used consistently as part of a hydration-first routine.
34 ingredients
Centella Asiatica Extract (92%), Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Water, Hydroxyacetophenone, Carbomer, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tromethamine, Sodium Hyaluronate (100.5ppm), Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Propanediol, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Prunus Domestica Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Anastatica Hierochuntica Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Hyaluronic Acid (500ppb), Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (500ppb), Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Rhodiola Rosea Root Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply immediately after cleansing — before toner — to prevent post-wash moisture evaporation and maximize the absorption of every step that follows. Compatible with all skincare actives.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Complete your cleansing step (single or double cleanse). Pat skin gently with a clean towel — skin should still feel slightly damp. Do not wait; apply the ampoule within a few seconds of drying to lock in residual moisture.
Dispense 2–4 Drops
Squeeze 2–4 drops of the ampoule into the palm of your hand, or directly onto fingertips. For first-time use, start with 2 drops and increase as needed. A little goes a long way — the ultra-watery texture spreads easily across the entire face and neck.
Apply & Pat In
Press and spread evenly across your face and neck using gentle pressing motions. Pat — do not rub — to encourage rapid absorption and avoid mechanical irritation, especially on reactive or sensitized skin. Pay extra attention to dry or tight areas.
Layer Your Routine
Once fully absorbed (within 10 seconds), continue immediately with your toner, essence, serum, and moisturizer. The pre-hydrated skin will absorb subsequent actives more efficiently, amplifying the results of your entire skincare routine.
Use Morning & Evening
Safe and effective for twice-daily use. In the morning, follow with SPF. In the evening, pair with any treatments or richer night creams. Consistent daily use delivers progressive improvements in skin hydration, barrier strength, and overall radiance over time.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels tight, dry, or uncomfortable immediately after cleansing
- You have sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone skin that needs gentle soothing
- You want to boost the effectiveness of your existing skincare products
- You're looking for a hydrating first step that works under oily skin without feeling greasy
- Your skin barrier is compromised (post-procedure, seasonal dryness, over-exfoliation)
- You prefer minimal, lightweight textures that absorb instantly with no residue
- You want K-beauty formulation quality at an accessible price point
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — the ester content may aggravate it
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin and need a heavier, occlusive moisturizer as your sole hydrator
- You're allergic or highly sensitive to any botanical extract in the formula
- You're seeking a targeted treatment product (exfoliant, retinol, or vitamin C serum)
- You want a fully fragrance-free formula — the natural botanical scent may be a concern
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESUltra-lightweight and oil-free — absorbs in seconds without adding any shine or greasiness. Provides hydration without disrupting the skin's oil balance. Ideal as a standalone first hydration step before lightweight moisturizers or SPF.
Delivers a welcome rush of instant hydration and locks in moisture immediately after cleansing. However, very dry skin types will likely need a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top to seal in the hydration and prevent TEWL throughout the day.
A top-rated skin type match for this ampoule. The watery texture hydrates dry zones without overwhelming oily areas. The Step 0 concept helps balance the entire face so subsequent serums and creams absorb evenly across all zones.
The 92% Centella Asiatica base is perfectly suited for calming sensitivity, reducing redness, and soothing reactive flare-ups. Free from artificial fragrance, alcohol, and harsh preservatives. Dermatologist-tested specifically for sensitive skin use.
Non-comedogenic (1/5 rating) and free from pore-clogging oils. The anti-inflammatory cica and niacinamide can help calm active breakouts. Caution advised for fungal acne sufferers due to the presence of one ester ingredient — always patch test first.
The multi-weight HA complex plumps fine lines and improves elasticity over time. Centella Asiatica's ability to stimulate collagen synthesis adds long-term anti-aging benefits. Best paired with a dedicated retinol or peptide serum for comprehensive anti-aging results.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Hydration & Comfort
Within seconds of application, skin feels noticeably more comfortable, plump, and hydrated. Post-cleanse tightness disappears immediately. The skin surface feels smoother and more receptive to the next skincare steps.
96% noticed immediate hydration boostImproved Skin Texture & Radiance
Consistent twice-daily use begins to visibly improve skin texture and overall glow. Skin appears more dewy and luminous throughout the day. Early reduction in dryness-related dullness and flakiness is commonly reported.
80% reported improved glow by week 2Calmer, More Balanced Skin
The Centella Asiatica complex begins to demonstrate its full soothing benefits — redness and sensitivity are visibly reduced. Skin tone appears more even. The barrier begins to strengthen, with skin holding moisture more effectively throughout the day.
75% noticed reduced redness and sensitivityStrengthened Barrier & Niacinamide Brightening
The cumulative effects of niacinamide (brightening, pore minimizing), hyaluronic acid (long-term plumpness), and centella (collagen stimulation) become fully apparent. Skin looks visibly brighter, pores appear refined, and fine lines are subtly softened. The skin barrier handles environmental stressors more resiliently.
65% reported visible brightening and pore refinementRatings by platform
7K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised By Users
- Instant, noticeable hydration from first use
- Extremely lightweight — zero greasiness or residue
- Absorbs in seconds, no waiting time needed
- Visibly calms redness and sensitivity
- Non-comedogenic — safe for oily and acne-prone skin
- Great value: 100ml bottle lasts 2–3 months with daily use
- Works beautifully under all skin types and textures
- Niacinamide adds bonus brightening over time
- Improves the performance of all subsequent skincare steps
Commonly Criticized
- Not fully fungal-acne safe — contains one ester ingredient
- Very dry skin may need additional occlusive moisturizer
- Contains a mild natural scent (from botanicals, not artificial fragrance)
- Active ingredient concentrations (HA forms) are quite low in ppm/ppb
- 50ml size feels small for the price compared to the 100ml option
- Not a targeted treatment — no exfoliation or retinol benefits
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A focused hydration essence built on 96% natural Betaine solution with Sodium Hyaluronate. Simpler, cleaner formula with fewer botanical extracts compared to the Hyalu-Cica Ampoule. Lacks the 92% Centella Asiatica and COMPARAX technology but delivers solid, watery hydration at a lower price point. Ideal for minimalists.
A comparable first-step hydrating toner powered by black rice extract, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Good botanical profile and the niacinamide content is a strong overlap. Lacks the high-concentration Centella Asiatica but is fully fungal-acne safe — making it the better option for FA sufferers who want a similar effect.
The most affordable dupe option. Contains HA at multiple molecular weights (2%) plus vitamin B5 (panthenol) for barrier support. Much simpler formula — no Centella Asiatica, no niacinamide, no botanicals. Works well as a stand-alone HA serum but lacks the soothing, brightening, and Step 0 priming concept of the Hyalu-Cica Ampoule.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging indicating "12M." Use within this period for optimal efficacy and safety.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in the bathroom where humidity and temperature fluctuate. Refrigerating the ampoule (optional) can enhance the soothing, cooling sensation on application — particularly beneficial for reactive or post-sun skin.
Flexible squeeze bottle with a narrow nozzle tip for precise dosing and minimal product waste. The 100ml bottle provides an ergonomic grip, while the 50ml size is compact and easy to handle. Note: the bottle is not airless, so tighten the cap firmly after each use.
The 50ml size is carry-on friendly (under the 100ml liquid limit for most international airlines). The 100ml bottle must be placed in checked luggage when flying. Both sizes are lightweight and leak-resistant with the nozzle cap securely fastened.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Hyalu-Cica First Ampoule is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters, which are the key ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The primary actives — Centella Asiatica (92%), hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and botanical extracts — are all widely regarded as safe for topical application during this period. That said, every pregnancy is different, and we always recommend consulting your OB-GYN or midwife before adding any new skincare product to your routine while pregnant or nursing.
Use with caution if you have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, an ester-based emollient that Malassezia yeast can potentially use as a food source, which may aggravate fungal acne breakouts in susceptible individuals. The vast majority of other ingredients in the formula — including Centella Asiatica, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and the botanical extracts — are FA-safe. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider doing a patch test first or opting for a fully FA-safe alternative like the COSRX Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner, which contains a similar high-concentration cica base without ester ingredients.
Yes — this ampoule is highly compatible with most skincare actives. As a Step 0 hydration and barrier-priming product, it's designed to be used before your actives, so it sets up the skin to tolerate and absorb treatments more efficiently. The Centella Asiatica base actually helps buffer potential irritation from retinol and chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs). A note on niacinamide + vitamin C: at high concentrations, these two can theoretically interact, but at the concentrations found in a first ampoule, this is rarely a practical issue. Apply the ampoule first, let it absorb, then apply your actives as part of your normal routine.
This ampoule is formulated for all skin types, but it particularly excels for oily, combination, sensitive, and reactive skin. Oily skin types love the ultra-lightweight, non-greasy texture. Combination skin benefits from the balanced hydration it provides across both oily and dry zones. Sensitive skin thrives on the high-concentration Centella Asiatica, which actively calms redness and irritation. Dry skin types will find it beneficial as a priming step but may need a heavier moisturizer layered on top, especially in colder months. The only skin type that should exercise extra caution is those with active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) due to one ester-based ingredient in the formula.
You'll notice immediate hydration and comfort from the very first application — post-cleanse tightness disappears within seconds. For visible texture improvements and a dewy glow, most users report noticeable results within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Soothing of redness and sensitivity typically becomes apparent within 2–4 weeks. The brightening effects of niacinamide and the collagen-stimulating benefits of centella require longer-term consistent use — expect to see meaningful improvement in skin tone, pore appearance, and fine lines after 6–12 weeks of regular use.
This ampoule is designed to be used as Step 0 — meaning it goes immediately after cleansing and before your toner. The concept behind Step 0 is that freshly cleansed skin is rapidly losing moisture to the air (transepidermal water loss), and applying this ampoule within seconds of drying your face stops that moisture loss in its tracks. Your full routine order should be: Cleanser → Hyalu-Cica First Ampoule (Step 0) → Toner → Essence/Serum → Moisturizer → SPF (morning). The pre-hydrated skin state significantly boosts the absorption and effectiveness of everything you layer on top.
No — the Hyalu-Cica First Ampoule is rated 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale, making it very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is water-based and entirely oil-free. The primary ingredients — Centella Asiatica extract, hyaluronic acid forms, niacinamide, birch sap, and botanical extracts — are all non-comedogenic. It has been officially tested and certified as non-comedogenic by the brand. This makes it a safe choice for acne-prone and oily skin types. The one area of caution is for those specifically managing fungal acne (Malassezia), not traditional comedonal acne — see the FA FAQ above for more details.
The period after opening (PAO) is 12 months, as indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging marked "12M." In terms of practical use: the 100ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use (using 2–3 drops per application). The 50ml bottle lasts approximately 1–1.5 months. Store with the cap tightly closed in a cool, dry location — not in a steamy bathroom. Optional: refrigerating the ampoule extends freshness and adds a pleasant cooling sensation. Discard if you notice any significant change in color, texture, or smell before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The SKIN1004 Hyalu-Cica First Ampoule is one of the smartest, most well-executed K-beauty first ampoules available at its price point. The 92% Madagascar Centella Asiatica base — sourced from SKIN1004's own certified farms — sets it apart from generic centella products, delivering genuine anti-inflammatory and barrier-repairing benefits. The 5-layer hyaluronic acid system provides multi-depth hydration that keeps skin plump throughout the day, while niacinamide adds meaningful brightening and pore-minimizing benefits over time. The Step 0 concept is not marketing fluff — priming the skin immediately post-cleanse genuinely improves the performance of every subsequent skincare step. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist-tested, it works beautifully across all skin types. The only caveats are the fungal acne caution (due to one ester ingredient) and the need for an additional moisturizer for very dry skin. At approximately $19 for 100ml, it offers exceptional value for a K-beauty ampoule built on a science-backed, high-quality formulation.
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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 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|