Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum
Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum
Product Description
Product overview
Like a big drink of water for your skin — esmi Skin Minerals' award-winning Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum delivers triple-action hyaluronic acid that clinically increases skin hydration by 25% within just 2 hours. This quick-absorbing, lightweight gel serum fights dehydration from the inside out, plumping fine lines, minimising pores, and revealing a radiant, healthy glow. Perfect for all skin types, ages, and entirely vegan and cruelty-free.
Triple-Action Hyaluronic Acid
Wide-spectrum HA at multiple molecular weights hydrates across all skin layers simultaneously, holding up to 1000x its weight in water for lasting plumpness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Action Hyaluronic Acid
Wide-spectrum HA at multiple molecular weights hydrates across all skin layers simultaneously, holding up to 1000x its weight in water for lasting plumpness.
+25% Hydration in 2 Hours
Clinically demonstrated to increase skin hydration levels by 25% within just two hours of application — visible results you can feel immediately.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Regulates sebum flow, minimises pores, evens skin tone, and reinforces the skin barrier — making this serum a true multi-tasking powerhouse.
Clean & Consciously Formulated
100% vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harsh alcohols, parabens, silicones, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Aloe Vera & Allantoin Complex
Botanical soothing agents calm inflammation, reduce redness, and accelerate skin healing while reinforcing moisture retention throughout the day.
Eye-Area Safe
Gentle enough to apply around the delicate eye area morning and night — no need for a separate eye serum, making it a true skincare multitasker.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen actives. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and allantoin are all considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always confirm with your healthcare provider.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids C11–C24, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. All 10 ingredients are safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Completely oil-free and water-based. None of the ingredients are known to clog pores. Safe for acne-prone, oily, and congestion-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and free from common irritants. Formulated with soothing allantoin and aloe vera to minimise reaction risk on reactive skin types.
Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide both complement retinol use. Applying this serum before retinol can help buffer potential irritation and dryness.
Water-based, pH-flexible formula layers well under Vitamin C serums and AHA/BHA treatments. Apply this hydrating serum before actives for best results.
No animal-derived ingredients or by-products. Not tested on animals at any stage of production or sourcing. Australian made with environmentally conscious practices.
The signature blue color comes from CI 42090, a synthetic colorant that gives the serum its distinctive appearance. It does not affect skin and is used in minimal amounts. Patch test recommended for extremely reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60%+Base
The primary base and largest constituent of this formula. Cosmetic-grade purified and deionized water acts as a solvent, delivering all water-soluble active ingredients deep into the skin. Ensures stable formulation and optimal texture.
- Function: Solvent, delivery vehicle for water-soluble actives
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — completely non-comedogenic
Glycerin ~5–10%Proven
One of the most effective humectants known to science. Naturally present in healthy skin, glycerin draws moisture from the air and deeper skin layers into the epidermis. Studies show it outperforms AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a pure humectant. Plant-derived in this formula.
- Mechanism: Binds water molecules, improving stratum corneum hydration
- Research: 2016 comparative study showed glycerin superior to HA as a stand-alone humectant
- Skin barrier: Increases ceramide synthesis for a stronger, healthier barrier
- Comedogenicity: 0/5
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–5%Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar with decades of clinical research behind it. At the concentration used here (~2–5%), niacinamide supports skin barrier repair, reduces blemishes, evens skin tone, minimises pore appearance, and regulates sebum production. It also helps repair UV-induced DNA damage.
- Anti-acne: Reduces sebum secretion and breaks the inflammatory cascade of blemish formation
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer for a more even, luminous complexion
- Anti-aging: Boosts collagen synthesis and improves skin elasticity over 6+ weeks
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide and fatty acid production within the stratum corneum
Hyaluronic Acid ~1–2%Proven
The hero ingredient. A naturally occurring polysaccharide found in skin, joints, and eyes, HA can bind up to 1,000 times its own weight in water. This formula uses triple-action (multi-molecular-weight) hyaluronic acid, working at different skin depths — surface, mid-layer, and deeper — for comprehensive, long-lasting hydration and visible plumping of fine lines.
- High-MW HA: Forms a moisture-sealing film on the skin surface; acts as osmotic pump for deeper penetration
- Low-MW HA: Penetrates into the epidermis for deeper hydration and anti-inflammatory support
- Clinical result: +25% skin hydration within 2 hours (brand clinical data)
- Anti-inflammatory: Mid-weight HA supports wound healing and reduces redness
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract ~1–3%Promising
Derived from the inner leaf gel of the aloe vera plant, this extract is rich in polysaccharides, vitamins A, C, and E, amino acids, and enzymes. It provides immediate soothing relief, reduces redness and inflammation, and acts as a secondary humectant. Its high water content delivers a cooling sensation on application.
- Soothing: Contains compounds that reduce skin inflammation and calm reactive skin
- Humectant: Polysaccharides mimic natural skin carbohydrates, supporting hydration retention
- Antioxidants: Vitamins A, C, E neutralise environmental free radical damage
Allantoin ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A classic skin-soothing and cell-renewal ingredient sourced from the comfrey plant (or produced synthetically). Allantoin softens and smooths the skin, helps repair the skin barrier, and promotes healthy cell turnover. It is extremely gentle and ideal for calming irritated or stressed skin.
- Keratolytic: Promotes gentle exfoliation of dead skin cells without irritation
- Anti-irritant: Calms skin inflammation and sensitisation reactions
- Barrier repair: Accelerates skin healing and promotes cell longevity
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 ~0.5–1%Functional
A modern synthetic polymer that creates the serum's smooth, lightweight gel texture. It forms a breathable, flexible film on the skin and helps active ingredients stay suspended evenly throughout the formula. Provides sensory elegance without the heaviness of traditional thickeners like carbomer.
- Function: Gelling agent, texture enhancer, emulsion stabiliser
- Benefit: Contributes to the fast-absorbing, non-sticky finish
Phenoxyethanol ≤1%Functional
A globally approved cosmetic preservative that protects the formula from bacterial and microbial contamination throughout its shelf life. Used at the internationally regulated maximum of 1% or below. Considered one of the gentler preservative options in modern cosmetics.
- Safety: Approved by EU, FDA, and TGA at ≤1% concentration
- Spectrum: Effective against gram-positive, gram-negative bacteria and some yeasts
Caprylyl Glycol ≤1%Functional
A multifunctional ingredient that works as both a secondary preservative booster and a skin conditioning agent. Caprylyl glycol enhances the antimicrobial activity of phenoxyethanol, allowing both to be used at lower concentrations. It also provides additional skin-softening and moisturising benefits.
- Function: Preservative booster, humectant, skin conditioner
- Benefit: Contributes to smoother, softer skin texture post-application
CI 42090 (FD&C Blue No. 1) TraceColorant
A synthetic blue colorant responsible for the serum's signature sky-blue tint. Used in trace amounts purely for visual aesthetics and product identification. CI 42090 is water-soluble, approved for cosmetic use globally, and does not interact with skin biology or affect product performance.
- Function: Cosmetic colorant only — no skin benefit or harm
- Safety: Approved by EU Cosmetics Regulation and TGA for topical use
10 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Aloe Vera) Extract, Allantoin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, CI 42090
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply on slightly damp skin after cleansing or toning. Always follow with a moisturiser or face oil to seal in hydration. Use morning and/or evening.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat skin dry, leaving it slightly damp — this helps hyaluronic acid absorb more effectively.
Dispense a Pearl-Sized Amount
Use the dropper to dispense a small pearl-sized amount onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula — resist the urge to over-apply.
Apply to Face & Neck
Gently press and massage the serum into the face and neck using upward, outward motions. Can also be applied carefully around the delicate eye area.
Allow to Absorb
Let the serum absorb for 30–60 seconds. The lightweight gel texture absorbs almost instantly, leaving no sticky residue — perfect for layering under makeup.
Seal with Moisturiser or Face Oil
Always follow with a moisturiser or face oil (such as esmi's 24K Gold Nourishing Oil) to lock the hydration in. Hyaluronic acid needs an occlusive layer on top to prevent moisture from evaporating.
AM Routine: Apply SPF
In the morning routine, finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Protecting hydrated skin from UV damage is essential for maintaining long-term skin health and radiance.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin feels tight, dull, or dehydrated
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy hydration boost
- You have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (serum-safe formula)
- You have sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin
- You want to layer hydration under actives like retinol or vitamin C
- You're looking to minimise fine lines and plump skin
- You prefer vegan and cruelty-free beauty products
- You want an eye area-safe hydrating serum
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need rich, emollient moisturisation (pair this serum with a heavier cream)
- You need exfoliation or targeted acne treatment — this serum is hydrating, not exfoliating
- You want strong anti-ageing actives like retinol or peptides as your primary serum (this is hydration-focused)
- You are allergic to synthetic blue dyes (CI 42090)
- You are sensitive to phenoxyethanol preservatives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, water-based formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Niacinamide actively regulates sebum production over time — a dual benefit for oily skin.
Delivers effective hydration but is not emollient-rich enough as a stand-alone product for very dry skin. Pair with a richer moisturiser or face oil on top for best results.
Lightweight gel consistency balances across both oily T-zones and drier cheeks seamlessly. Hydrates where needed without overloading oily areas.
Fragrance-free and free from common irritants. Allantoin and aloe vera actively soothe reactive skin. Gentle enough for rosacea-prone skin — patch test recommended for those with extreme sensitivity.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, and oil-free. Niacinamide targets breakouts and pore size. Multiple reviewers noted it was the first intensely hydrating serum that didn't trigger breakouts.
Excellent for plumping fine lines and improving skin elasticity. For deeper anti-ageing concerns, consider pairing with esmi's Ageless Hyaluronic Serum (AM/PM split routine) for peptide and antioxidant benefits.
Results timeline
12+ WEEKSInstant Hydration Surge
Skin feels immediately plumper, softer, and more supple. The triple-action hyaluronic acid begins binding moisture across multiple skin layers from the first application.
95% noticed increased hydrationImproved Skin Texture & Glow
Regular use visibly improves skin radiance and texture. Dullness decreases and the complexion takes on a healthy, dewy glow. Skin feels consistently more comfortable throughout the day.
88% reported improved skin radianceFine Lines & Pore Minimisation
Sustained hydration helps plump fine lines from within. Niacinamide begins visibly minimising pore appearance and refining skin tone. Skin feels resilient and balanced.
80% saw smoother, more even skinBarrier Repair & Tone Evenness
With consistent use, niacinamide's barrier-repairing and brightening benefits become more pronounced. Blemish scars and hyperpigmentation begin to fade. Skin barrier function is strengthened.
75% noticed improvement in skin tone evennessLong-Term Elasticity & Resilience
Sustained hydration and niacinamide work together to improve skin elasticity and firmness. Long-term users report their skin "holds" hydration better and appears consistently healthier overall.
91% would recommend to a friendRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
STRONGPraised
- Fast-absorbing, weightless gel texture
- Instant plumping and hydration boost
- Clinically proven +25% hydration in 2 hours
- Safe for all skin types including acne-prone
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fungal acne safe (malassezia-safe)
- Zero comedogenic rating (0/5)
- Fragrance-free — no irritation for sensitive skin
- Eye-area safe — replaces a separate eye serum
- Layers beautifully under makeup
- Compatible with retinol, AHA, BHA, and vitamin C
- Australian made, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Award-winning formula (Best In Beauty 2024)
- 91% of testers would recommend to a friend
- Clean ingredient list with only 10 ingredients
Criticized
- Premium price ($65 AUD / 30ml) for a minimalist formula
- Must be followed by a moisturiser — not a stand-alone product for very dry skin
- Niacinamide concentration (~2%) may be lower than needed for advanced brightening or sebum control
- Contains a synthetic blue dye (CI 42090) — unnecessary for some clean beauty purists
- No targeted anti-ageing actives like peptides or retinol
- Small 30ml bottle may run out quickly for heavy daily users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The closest dupe in terms of core function. Features 2% multi-weight hyaluronic acid with Vitamin B5 (panthenol) for enhanced hydration. Lacks niacinamide and allantoin. More watery texture, slightly tacky finish. No blue dye. Great value but less skin-tone evening and barrier-repair benefit.
Pairs hyaluronic acid with ceramides and vitamin B5 for barrier-strengthening hydration. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Does not contain niacinamide. Slightly thicker texture, similar fast absorption. Better suited to dry or barrier-compromised skin. Widely available at pharmacies.
A well-known hyaluronic acid-powered water gel with proven hydration credentials. More of a moisturiser-serum hybrid. Contains dimethicone (silicone) which some users prefer to avoid. Lacks niacinamide and allantoin. Not strictly fungal acne safe. Great for dehydrated normal-to-oily skin as an affordable alternative.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within this window for optimal efficacy and product safety. Note the date you open the bottle.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Some users choose to keep it in a skincare fridge for a refreshing application — this is fine and may extend shelf life slightly.
Glass dropper bottle with pipette applicator. Allows precise dispensing and hygienic application. Keep the dropper clean — avoid touching it directly to skin to prevent contamination.
The 30ml size is within the 100ml carry-on liquid limit in most countries, making it travel-friendly. A 12ml mini size is also available from esmi for shorter trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (retinol, retinyl palmitate), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical sunscreen actives — all of which are the ingredients of concern during pregnancy. The key actives — hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, aloe vera, glycerin, and allantoin — are widely regarded as pregnancy-safe. As always, we recommend confirming with your OB/GYN or midwife before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Yes — the esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. None of its 10 ingredients contain fatty acids in the C11–C24 chain, fermented ingredients, polysorbates, or esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. All ingredients — water, glycerin, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera extract, allantoin, polyacrylate crosspolymer-6, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, and CI 42090 — have been assessed as safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Yes — this serum pairs beautifully with all of these actives. Apply the esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum first (as a thinner, water-based product) and allow it to absorb, then apply your active serum on top. Using a hydrating serum before retinol can actually help buffer potential irritation and dryness — several reviewers noted using this serum before their retinol with great results. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is compatible with all of these actives and can even enhance their tolerability. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF after using any AHAs or BHAs the night prior.
The esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is suitable for all skin types and ages, but it is especially ideal for oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. Its oil-free, water-based, lightweight formula hydrates without adding grease or triggering breakouts. For very dry or mature skin, it works best when layered under a richer moisturiser or face oil to lock in the hydration. The formula is also eye-area safe, making it versatile for all facial zones.
Hydration results are immediate — skin feels noticeably plumper and softer within 2 hours of first application (clinically demonstrated +25% hydration improvement). Visible improvements in skin radiance and texture are typically noticed within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. For niacinamide's brightening, pore-minimising, and barrier-repairing benefits, expect to see meaningful changes at the 4–8 week mark, as these changes occur at a cellular level. Anti-ageing effects on fine lines and elasticity may take 6–12 weeks of consistent use to fully develop.
Apply the esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum as step 3 in your routine — after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturisers, face oils, and sunscreen. The general rule is thinnest to thickest: water-based serums go on first, followed by treatments, then moisturiser, then oils. Critically, always finish with a moisturiser or face oil on top to seal in the hyaluronic acid's moisture — without an occlusive layer on top, HA can actually draw moisture from the skin rather than the environment in very dry conditions. This serum can be used both morning and evening.
No — the esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It is entirely oil-free and water-based, with no ingredients known to clog pores. It is safe for acne-prone, oily, and congestion-prone skin types. Niacinamide in the formula actually works to actively reduce pore appearance and regulate sebum production over time. Multiple users with breakout-prone skin have noted it was the first intensively hydrating serum they could use without triggering blemishes.
The esmi Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within 12 months for optimal efficacy and product safety. The glass dropper bottle and preservative system (phenoxyethanol + caprylyl glycol) help maintain stability throughout this period. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the dropper clean to avoid contamination. A 12ml mini size is also available for those who want to try before committing to the full 30ml bottle.
Verdict: The esmi Skin Minerals Hyaluronic Hydrating Serum is a genuinely impressive, clean, and consciously formulated hydration serum that delivers on its promises. The triple-action hyaluronic acid formula — backed by clinical data showing +25% hydration in 2 hours — combined with skin-repairing niacinamide, soothing aloe vera, and gentle allantoin, makes this far more than a one-trick moisturising serum. Its 10-ingredient list is clean, effective, and transparent. Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, fungal acne, and a comedogenic rating of 0/5, it ticks virtually every safety box. The lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture works beautifully across all skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin. The main consideration is price — at $65 AUD for 30ml, it sits at the premium end for a minimalist formula — but for those who want Australian-made, vegan, award-winning skincare that genuinely hydrates and supports the skin barrier, it earns its place as a daily essentia.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Soothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylyl Glycol
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Humectant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
CI 42090
Colorant, Cosmetic Colorant
|
|