Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid
Product Description
Product overview
Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a concentrated, ultra-pure hydrating serum formulated with just five clean ingredients. Powered by Sodium Hyaluronate — a molecule that binds up to 1,000 times its weight in water — this fragrance-free, vegan serum plumps fine lines, restores skin elasticity, and delivers long-lasting moisture without oils, parabens, or fillers.
Intense Deep Hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate penetrates the skin's surface to draw moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers, creating a lasting "hydration sandwich" effect for visibly plumper, softer skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYIntense Deep Hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate penetrates the skin's surface to draw moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers, creating a lasting "hydration sandwich" effect for visibly plumper, softer skin.
Anti-Aging & Fine Line Reduction
Consistent use helps fill the space between skin cells with moisture, reducing the visibility of fine lines and crow's feet while restoring youthful suppleness and elasticity.
Ultra-Clean 5-Ingredient Formula
No fillers, no dilution — Asterwood Naturals uses the fewest ingredients possible to maximize potency. Every component serves a functional purpose, backed by clinical studies.
Clinically-Backed Formulation
Developed in collaboration with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessica Farahi, ensuring the formula meets rigorous clinical skincare standards and delivers on its hydration promises.
Layering & Routine Friendly
Water-based and oil-free — this serum layers seamlessly with vitamin C serums, retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and moisturizers without pilling, greasiness, or interference.
Universally Gentle Formula
Free of the top 11 most common allergens (as rated by Mayo Clinic Research via SkinSAFE). Rated 91% allergen-free — safe for sensitive, reactive, and allergy-prone skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Hyaluronic acid is considered safe during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider before changing your routine during pregnancy.
Confirmed fungal acne safe. Contains no fermented ingredients, polysorbates, fatty acids, or esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Completely oil-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Will not clog pores — suitable for acne-prone skin. No occlusive oils or waxes in the formula.
Safe to layer with vitamin C serums, retinol, AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHAs (salicylic acid), niacinamide, and peptide serums. Apply Asterwood HA first on damp skin, then follow with actives.
100% vegan formula — Sodium Hyaluronate is plant-derived, not animal-sourced. Never tested on animals. Free of any animal by-products.
Contains no oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-damaging UV filters. The minimal, clean formula has a low environmental impact.
Phenoxyethanol (preservative) may occasionally cause sensitivity in very reactive skin. Brand recommends testing on the neck before full facial application.
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant — it draws moisture from its surroundings. Applying to dry skin in low-humidity environments can paradoxically pull moisture from deeper skin layers. Always apply to damp skin or follow immediately with a moisturizer.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~95%+Base
Purified, deionized water serves as the primary solvent and carrier for all active ingredients. As the first listed ingredient, it constitutes the largest portion of the formula — ensuring a lightweight, non-greasy texture that spreads easily and absorbs quickly into skin.
- Function: Universal solvent, ingredient delivery vehicle, texture base
- Quality: Purified and deionized to remove impurities and minimize irritation risk
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — does not clog pores
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) Key ActiveProven
The star ingredient — Sodium Hyaluronate is the sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid, a molecule naturally found in skin, joints, and connective tissue. It is a powerful humectant capable of binding up to 1,000 times its own weight in water. As the second ingredient in the formula, it is present at a high, concentrated level — making this a true HA-forward serum rather than a diluted treatment.
- Humectant Power: Binds up to 1,000x its weight in water, drawing moisture into the skin
- Molecular Action: High-molecular-weight HA forms a protective moisture barrier on the skin surface; lower-weight HA penetrates deeper layers for internal hydration
- Clinical Evidence: Defined as a potent humectant in the Journal of Dermatologic Therapy — demonstrated to significantly improve skin hydration, elasticity, and smoothness with consistent topical use
- Skin-Identical: Naturally present in human skin and tissues — unlikely to cause allergic reactions
- Source: Vegan — plant-derived via microbial fermentation, not from rooster combs
Phenoxyethanol <2%Proven
A globally approved, widely used synthetic preservative that protects the formula from bacterial and microbial contamination. Present at less than 2% (label-confirmed), Phenoxyethanol is the current industry standard for safe, paraben-free preservation. It offers excellent thermal stability and works across a broad pH range (3–10), making it ideal for HA serums.
- Safety Profile: Approved for use up to 1% worldwide (EU, FDA, INCI standard) — this formula is confirmed at <2% combined preservative blend
- Paraben-Free Alternative: Widely used to replace parabens while maintaining equivalent antimicrobial efficacy
- Thermal Stability: Stable when heated up to 85°C; functions across pH 3–10
Benzoic Acid <2%Promising
A naturally occurring organic acid used as a secondary preservative, primarily effective against fungi and yeasts. In cosmetics, it is used as part of a multi-component preservative system alongside Phenoxyethanol and Dehydroacetic Acid. Ecocert and Cosmos-approved — commonly found in natural and clean beauty formulations. At <2% concentration, it functions solely as a preservative with no active skin-treatment effect.
- Function: Antifungal preservative, antimicrobial agent
- Certification: Ecocert and Cosmos approved — recognized as a natural, safe preservative
- Effective Concentration: Active at low concentrations (0.1–0.6%), minimizing any potential for irritation
Dehydroacetic Acid <2%Promising
A gentle, Ecocert-approved preservative that works primarily against fungi and mold, complementing the antibacterial action of Phenoxyethanol. Part of the "Geogard" preservative family, Dehydroacetic Acid is popular in natural and clean skincare for its gentle efficacy and low irritation potential. It is not sufficient as a stand-alone preservative, making the combination preservative approach in this formula well-designed for safety and efficacy.
- Function: Antifungal preservative, mold inhibitor
- Certification: Ecocert and Cosmos approved — popular in natural skincare formulations
- Synergy: Works synergistically with Phenoxyethanol and Benzoic Acid for broad-spectrum preservation
5 ingredients — Water (Aqua), Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid
Note: Some Amazon listings also include Sodium Hydroxide (a pH adjuster) as a 6th ingredient used to optimize the formula's pH for stability and skin compatibility.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to damp skin after toning — before other serums and before moisturizer. Always seal with a moisturizer to lock in the hydration drawn in by HA. Use morning and/or night.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prepare
Gently wash your face with a mild cleanser and warm water. Pat skin until slightly damp — do not fully dry. Applying to damp skin is key for maximum HA absorption and hydration locking.
Dispense & Warm
Apply 2–4 drops into your palm (dropper bottle) or 1–2 pumps (pump bottle). Gently rub palms together to warm the serum slightly — this helps even distribution.
Apply to Face & Neck
Press and gently massage the serum onto your face and neck using upward motions. A little goes a long way — avoid tugging or rubbing aggressively. Allow 30 seconds to absorb.
Layer Actives (Optional)
If using vitamin C, retinol, AHAs, or BHAs in your routine, apply them after the HA serum has been absorbed. HA creates an optimal hydrated base for actives to work effectively.
Seal with Moisturizer
Always follow with a moisturizer or facial oil to seal in the moisture attracted by HA. Skipping this step — especially in dry climates — can cause HA to draw moisture out of deeper skin layers.
Use AM & PM for Best Results
Apply twice daily — morning and night — for fastest, most visible results. In the morning, finish with SPF. Consistent daily use over 4–8 weeks delivers the most noticeable improvements.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want pure, concentrated hydration without unnecessary additives
- You have dry, dehydrated, or dull skin that needs moisture replenishment
- You're building a minimalist or sensitive-skin-friendly routine
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe hydrating serum
- You struggle with fungal acne and need a safe humectant serum
- You want an affordable everyday hydration base to layer under actives
- You are looking for a fragrance-free, allergen-free serum
- You want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet over time
Consider alternatives if:
- You want multi-action treatment (brightening, acne-fighting, anti-aging peptides) in one product
- You live in an extremely dry climate and cannot layer a moisturizer on top
- You are looking for a rich, occlusive cream-based moisturizer
- You want immediate dramatic skin transformation — HA hydration is gradual and cumulative
- You prefer a thicker gel or cream texture over a watery serum
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine, greasiness, or heaviness. Provides hydration without triggering excess sebum production.
Deeply replenishes moisture in dehydrated skin. For best results on very dry skin, layer a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top to seal in HA's hydrating benefits.
Balances hydration beautifully across different facial zones — delivering moisture to dry patches while keeping oilier areas light and non-greasy.
Fragrance-free and rated 91% allergen-free by Mayo Clinic Research standards. Patch test recommended before full application. Very rarely, Phenoxyethanol may cause mild reaction in reactive skin.
Comedogenic rating of 0 — will not clog pores. Fungal acne safe. Oil-free and free of all pore-clogging ingredients. Ideal for acne-prone skin needing hydration without breakout risk.
Highly effective at plumping fine lines, crow's feet, and nasolabial folds with consistent use. HA is a key molecule that naturally declines with age — replenishing it topically visibly restores a more youthful appearance.
Results timeline
WEEK 6–8Immediate Hydration & Plumping
Skin feels noticeably softer, more supple, and plumped from the very first application. Surface dehydration is addressed immediately — skin looks dewier and more refreshed.
~90% noticedReduced Tightness & Improved Texture
Dryness and tightness after cleansing diminish significantly. Skin texture begins to feel smoother, and fine surface lines caused by dehydration become less visible.
~80% noticedVisible Fine Line Reduction
Consistent daily use leads to visibly reduced fine lines — especially around the eyes (crow's feet) and mouth (nasolabial folds). Skin elasticity and bounce begin to improve as deeper layers are continuously hydrated.
~70% noticedLong-Term Hydration, Radiance & Elasticity
Significant improvements in skin radiance, smoothness, and firmness. Dark spots may begin to lighten (secondary benefit of improved barrier function and cell turnover). Dermatologists have noted impressive results with consistent users.
~60% noticedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
STRONGPraised
- Ultra-clean, minimal 5-ingredient formula with no fillers
- Noticeable plumping and hydration from first use
- Excellent value — one of the most affordable HA serums on the market
- Completely fragrance-free and hypoallergenic (91% allergen-free)
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (0/5)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Layers seamlessly with all other actives (vitamin C, retinol, AHAs, BHAs)
- Visible reduction in fine lines and crow's feet with consistent use
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and reef-safe
- Oprah Editor's Choice recognition
- Available in multiple sizes (1 oz to 8 oz)
- 100% money-back guarantee from Asterwood Naturals
Criticized
- Slight tackiness / tightening sensation — must follow with moisturizer
- No multi-action benefits (no vitamin C, peptides, or niacinamide included)
- Dropper applicator can be messy and inconsistent in dosing
- In very dry/low-humidity climates, may need a richer occlusive moisturizer on top
- Minimal ingredient formula may feel too simple for users wanting an all-in-one treatment serum
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical formula — Water + Hyaluronic Acid + Phenoxyethanol. Same minimalist approach, similar concentration, and comparable texture. Almost indistinguishable from Asterwood in terms of hydrating effect. Also fragrance-free and vegan.
A well-known minimalist HA serum with multiple molecular weights of HA plus added Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) for extra soothing. Slightly more complex formula — Asterwood has fewer ingredients for those avoiding all additives. Both are fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
A more complex formula that combines HA with vitamin C, vitamin B5, and botanical extracts. Better for those wanting multi-action hydration and brightening but with more ingredients — less suitable for those prioritizing minimal, clean formulas or fungal acne safety.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Asterwood Naturals confirms on product labeling and Amazon listings that the serum can be used for up to 12 months after opening.
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in humid bathroom environments — a bedroom nightstand or vanity shelf is ideal. Do not freeze.
Available in dropper bottle (1 oz and 2 oz sizes) and pump bottle (4 oz and 8 oz sizes). Pump bottle is more hygienic and reduces contamination risk for larger sizes.
Yes — the 1 oz (30 ml) size is TSA-compliant and well under the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. Ideal for travel skincare kits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum is considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) is a naturally occurring molecule in the body and is widely regarded as safe for topical use during pregnancy. The preservatives (Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid) are present at very low concentrations (<2%) and are not classified as pregnancy hazards at cosmetic use levels. As always, consult your OB/GYN or midwife before making changes to your skincare routine during pregnancy.
Yes — Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum is confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, fermented ingredients, or other compounds known to feed Malassezia yeast. With only 5 ingredients — Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, and Dehydroacetic Acid — there is nothing in this serum that triggers fungal acne flare-ups. It is also listed as fungal acne safe on SkinSort and other ingredient analysis platforms.
Yes — this serum is fully compatible with all major actives. Asterwood Naturals specifically states it works well with vitamin C serums, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid), and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs like salicylic acid). In fact, applying this HA serum to damp skin first creates an optimal hydrated base that helps actives absorb more effectively and may reduce potential irritation from strong exfoliants or retinoids. Apply the HA serum first, let it absorb briefly, then follow with your actives.
Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum is suitable for all skin types. It is especially well-suited to oily, combination, and acne-prone skin because it is completely oil-free and non-comedogenic (rating 0/5). Dry and mature skin types benefit greatly from its intense humectant hydration — though very dry skin should always follow with a heavier moisturizer to seal in moisture. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate this formula well due to its 5-ingredient, allergen-free composition, though a patch test is recommended. It is also excellent for aging skin looking to reduce fine lines, crow's feet, and loss of elasticity.
Many users notice immediate plumping and softness within the first 1–3 days of use. Surface dehydration is addressed almost instantly. For meaningful improvements in fine lines, skin texture, and elasticity, consistent daily use over 4–8 weeks is recommended. Some reviewers have reported their dermatologists commenting on notably fewer fine lines in the crow's feet area with consistent use over several weeks. Dark spot lightening and skin radiance improvements typically emerge after 6–8 weeks of twice-daily use. Results are cumulative — the more consistently you use it, the better the long-term hydration benefits.
Apply Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid after cleansing and toning, before other serums, and before your moisturizer. The key rule: apply to slightly damp (not soaking wet) skin to maximize HA's moisture-attracting effect. The routine order is: Cleanser → Toner → Asterwood HA Serum (on damp skin) → Other Serums (vitamin C, retinol, actives) → Moisturizer → SPF (morning only). Always seal with a moisturizer — this is critical for HA to work properly, as it locks in the moisture HA has attracted. Without an occlusive layer on top, HA can draw moisture out of deeper skin layers in dry environments.
No — Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum is completely non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is 100% oil-free and contains no waxes, heavy emollients, or occlusive ingredients that are known to clog pores. Sodium Hyaluronate itself is a water-soluble molecule that does not block pores. This serum is safe for acne-prone, congestion-prone, and pore-sensitive skin. It is also fungal acne safe, making it one of the cleanest options available for breakout-prone individuals seeking hydration without risk.
Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This is confirmed on both the brand's website and Amazon product listings. To maximize shelf life, store the serum in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid introducing contaminants into the bottle — do not touch the dropper tip to your face. The 8 oz pump bottle is particularly well-designed for hygiene, reducing air and bacterial exposure compared to a dropper. Discard if the serum changes color, smell, or consistency before the 12-month period ends.
Verdict: Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum delivers exactly what it promises — pure, concentrated, fuss-free hydration. Its ultra-minimal 5-ingredient formula makes it one of the cleanest HA serums on the market, and its exceptional value (starting at ~$13.99) makes it accessible to all budgets. The serum is pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free — checking nearly every clean beauty box available. Consistent users report meaningful reductions in fine lines, crow's feet, and nasolabial folds over 4–8 weeks, with some even earning dermatologist praise. The main caveats: a slight tackiness that requires a moisturizer on top, a single-action formula (HA only) that won't replace a full anti-aging regimen, and a dropper applicator that some find messy. For anyone seeking an affordable, no-nonsense hydration serum that pairs well with any routine and suits all skin types — Asterwood Naturals Hyaluronic Acid is a highly recommended, standout choice.
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
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 0 |
Benzoic Acid
Masking, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dehydroacetic Acid
Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|