Hyseac SOS Paste
Hyseac SOS Paste
Product Description
Product overview
A concentrated overnight spot treatment paste by Uriage that targets individual blemishes using the power of zinc oxide, green clay (Illite), schist (shale) oil extract, and salicylic acid. Formulated to accelerate the natural maturation and disappearance of pimples while Uriage Thermal Water soothes surrounding skin — clinically shown to reduce blemish size by 56% and limit skin marks by 86% after 7 days of use.
Overnight Blemish Accelerator
Acts from the very first night by accelerating the natural maturation of pimples so they resolve faster. A white, bandage-like paste that clings to the spot and delivers actives directly to the blemish.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOvernight Blemish Accelerator
Acts from the very first night by accelerating the natural maturation of pimples so they resolve faster. A white, bandage-like paste that clings to the spot and delivers actives directly to the blemish.
Zinc Oxide + Green Clay (Illite) Duo
Zinc oxide absorbs excess sebum, soothes inflammation, and provides mild antibacterial action. Illite (green clay) draws out impurities and excess oil with powerful adsorption properties.
Schist (Shale) Oil Extract
Sodium PG-Sulfonate — derived from schist/shale oil — acts as the "drawing" agent in the formula, similar to ichthammol. Helps bring deep blemishes to a head to speed resolution.
Uriage Thermal Water
Rich in minerals and trace elements, Uriage's signature thermal water provides local soothing action to calm redness and irritation around blemishes as the active ingredients work.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
A proven oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates pores to exfoliate, unclog, and prevent future breakouts. Works synergistically with zinc and clay for enhanced anti-acne action.
Clinically Studied Results
Dermatologically tested clinical study on 21 volunteers: blemish size reduced by 56% and post-blemish marks limited by 86% after 7 days. 91% of users reported imperfections disappeared faster.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). While topical use in small amounts for spot treatment is generally considered low risk, high-concentration or widespread salicylic acid use is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use. Zinc oxide used topically is generally considered safe.
Confirmed fungal acne safe by Skincarisma analysis. The formula does not contain fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for pityrosporum folliculitis-prone skin.
Officially certified non-comedogenic by Uriage. Despite containing Cera Alba (beeswax, rated 0-2) and Octyldodecanol, the formula is designed for spot application only, minimizing pore-clogging risk on surrounding skin.
Free from common allergens, fragrances, harsh alcohols, parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types. Dermatologically tested and controlled.
Do not layer on top of retinol or vitamin C. As an overnight spot treatment, apply directly to blemishes after your serum layer. The salicylic acid may interact with strong actives if combined — use on spot areas only.
Contains salicylic acid (BHA) itself. Avoid applying over a separate AHA/BHA exfoliant on the same spot to prevent over-exfoliation. Safe to use rest of the routine with an exfoliant on non-treated areas.
This product is hydrolipidic and will NOT rinse off with water alone. It must be removed the next morning using a tissue or cotton pad before washing your face. This is by design — it ensures the formula stays on the spot all night.
Contains Cera Alba (beeswax), which is an animal-derived ingredient. This product is NOT certified vegan. It is suitable for vegetarians but not vegans.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSZinc Oxide ~25–30%Proven
Listed as the first ingredient (highest concentration), zinc oxide is the star active in this formula. A mineral multi-tasker that absorbs excess sebum, acts as a mild antimicrobial against acne-causing bacteria, soothes inflammation, and supports wound healing. Also provides mild UV-filtering action as a physical sunscreen agent.
- Sebum Control: Zinc ions inhibit lipase activity in sebaceous glands, reducing sebum production at the blemish site.
- Antimicrobial: Demonstrated inhibitory action against Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) in peer-reviewed studies.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) locally in acne lesions.
- Wound Healing: Zinc supports keratinocyte migration and collagen synthesis to reduce post-acne marks.
- Safety: Regulatory agencies globally classify zinc oxide as non-toxic; it does not penetrate intact skin.
Illite (Green Clay) ~10–15%Proven
Illite is a naturally occurring phyllosilicate clay mineral widely used in dermatology for its powerful adsorption properties. As the fourth ingredient listed, it plays a major role in the formula's ability to draw impurities, toxins, and excess sebum from within the pore to the skin's surface — accelerating the blemish maturation process.
- Adsorption: Illite's layered structure and large surface area allow it to physically bind and absorb sebum, toxins, and bacteria from the pore.
- Purifying: Pulls comedonal content toward the surface, explaining the paste's ability to "ripen" pimples overnight.
- Mineral-rich: Contains potassium, magnesium, and silicon — supportive micronutrients for skin barrier function.
Sodium PG-Sulfonate (Schist / Shale Oil Extract) ~3–5%Proven
Sodium PG-Sulfonate is the INCI name for the shale (schist) oil sulfonate that Uriage highlights as a key active. This ingredient is functionally similar to ichthammol (ammonium bituminosulfonate) — a classic dermatology drawing agent. It works by softening the skin around a blemish to draw the contents outward, and has mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Drawing Action: Like ichthammol, sulfonate compounds soften keratin and promote egress of comedonal content.
- Antimicrobial: Mild antibacterial properties against acne-causing microorganisms.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces local redness and swelling around deep, painful blemishes.
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5–2%Proven
The final ingredient in the list, salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates into the pore lining to dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together — preventing future comedones from forming. It also has proven anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial properties.
- Keratolytic: Breaks down keratin plugs within follicles, unclogging blackheads and whiteheads.
- Oil-soluble: Penetrates sebum-filled pores where water-soluble acids cannot reach.
- Anti-inflammatory: Salicylate compounds inhibit arachidonic acid pathway, reducing redness and swelling.
- Antimicrobial: Bacteriostatic activity against C. acnes at concentrations above 0.5%.
Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides ~8–12%Promising
The second ingredient by concentration. This polyglyceride ester mixture is derived from vegetable fatty acids and glycerol. In this formula, it serves as the primary emollient/carrier phase — creating the thick, pasty texture that allows the formula to adhere to the spot overnight. It is also a skin-conditioning agent that prevents the surrounding skin from becoming over-dried.
- Texture Agent: Creates the characteristic thick paste consistency that stays on blemishes overnight without running.
- Emollient: Softens skin around the blemish, supporting ingredient penetration.
- Skin Barrier: Linoleic and linolenic acid components help maintain the lipid barrier of surrounding healthy skin.
Aqua / Water (Uriage Thermal Water) ~10%Proven
Uriage's signature thermal spring water — sourced from the French Alps and unique in its balanced mineral composition. It contains bicarbonates, calcium, magnesium, and trace elements including zinc and copper. Clinically documented soothing and skin-strengthening properties distinguish it from regular purified water.
- Soothing: Uriage Thermal Water has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in clinical studies — reducing skin reactivity scores.
- Mineral-rich: Natural zinc and copper content provides additional antimicrobial and healing benefit.
- Hydrating vehicle: Carries water-soluble actives and provides local hydration to counterbalance the drying effect of clay and BHA.
Cera Alba (Beeswax) ~2–4%Proven
Cera Alba is natural beeswax — a complex mixture of esters, fatty acids, and hydrocarbons. In this formula it serves as a consistency agent and occlusive, helping the paste maintain its thick texture and adhere to the blemish site throughout the night. It creates a gentle barrier that prevents the active ingredients from evaporating or rubbing off.
- Film-former: Creates the bandage-like adherence effect that keeps actives in contact with the blemish.
- Comedogenic rating: 0–2 — relatively low risk when used in spot treatment applications.
- Anti-inflammatory: Beeswax contains naturally occurring anti-inflammatory compounds (triacontanyl palmitate).
4-Terpineol (Tea Tree Component) ~0.5–1%Proven
4-Terpineol is the primary bioactive component of tea tree oil — and the ingredient responsible for tea tree oil's well-documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects against acne. Unlike using full tea tree oil (which contains potential allergens), using isolated 4-Terpineol is a more refined approach offering the benefits without the sensitization risk of the full oil.
- Antimicrobial: Demonstrated activity against C. acnes at low concentrations — comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide in some studies with fewer side effects.
- Anti-inflammatory: Suppresses histamine-induced skin responses and reduces cytokine activity in acne lesions.
- Wound healing: Supports faster resolution of inflamed lesions by moderating the inflammatory cascade.
15 ingredients
Zinc Oxide, Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides, Aqua (Water/Eau), Illite, Talc, Tridecyl Trimellitate, Octyldodecanol, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Steareth-2, Sodium PG-Sulfonate (Sodium Shale Oil Sulfonate), Disteardimonium Hectorite, 1,2-Hexanediol, Propylene Carbonate, 4-Terpineol, Salicylic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as thelast step of your evening routine — directly on blemishes after moisturizer. It is a spot treatment, not a full-face product. Do not apply sunscreen on top. Remove with a tissue the next morning before cleansing.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil from your face. Pat skin dry completely — do not apply to damp skin.
Complete Your Full Routine First
Apply your toner, serums, and moisturizer as normal. Hyseac SOS Paste goes on last — after all other products — directly on top of blemishes.
Apply a Small Amount Directly to Each Blemish
Using a clean fingertip or a cotton swab, take a small dot of paste and apply it directly onto the pimple, covering it completely. Press gently so it adheres. Apply only to blemishes — this is not a full-face treatment.
Leave on All Night
Allow the paste to work overnight. It is normal for some transfer to occur on your pillowcase — consider using a dark or old pillowcase. Do not rinse with water — the formula is hydrolipidic and water-resistant by design.
Remove Gently in the Morning
Wipe off the paste with a clean tissue or cotton pad first, then proceed with your regular morning cleanse. Do NOT attempt to wash it off with water alone — it will not fully rinse clean.
Repeat if Needed
For persistent blemishes, reapply the following night. Most users see significant results within 1–3 nights. For best results use up to 7 consecutive nights on a stubborn spot.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You get occasional pimples, whiteheads, or inflamed spots
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want a fast-acting overnight spot treatment
- You prefer a fragrance-free, dermatologically tested formula
- You have sensitive or reactive skin that can't tolerate benzoyl peroxide
- You need a compact spot treatment for travel or emergencies
- You have fungal acne and need a safe spot treatment
- Teenagers and adults dealing with hormonal breakouts
Consider alternatives if:
- You have widespread cystic acne requiring full-face treatment
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first due to salicylic acid)
- You are vegan (contains beeswax — Cera Alba)
- You need a daytime treatment (designed for overnight use only)
- You have a known allergy to bee products
- You are looking for a product that can be rinsed off easily with water
- You want something for blackheads across a large area (use a BHA toner instead)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin. Zinc oxide and Illite clay actively absorb sebum at the blemish site. The thick paste controls oil overnight without disrupting the rest of the face routine.
Spot-application means it only targets oily/acne-prone zones. The formula won't over-dry drier areas. Widely praised by combination skin users as a precise targeted treatment.
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and free from harsh alcohols make this well-tolerated by sensitive skin. Uriage Thermal Water adds soothing properties. Patch test on a small area first if very reactive.
Primary target skin type. Non-comedogenic certification, BHA (salicylic acid), zinc, clay, and schist extract specifically address the acne cycle — from existing pimples to preventing new ones forming.
Can be used for occasional spot treatment, but dry skin types may find the clay-based formula slightly drying around the spot area. Apply a rich moisturizer to the face before dotting on the paste.
Results timeline
WEEK 2+Redness Reduction & Spot Softening
The zinc oxide and 4-Terpineol begin soothing inflammation from the first application. Many users report visible reduction in redness and swelling by the following morning, with the spot feeling softer and less painful.
78% noticed overnight reduction in rednessBlemish Maturation Accelerated
The schist oil extract and green clay combination draws impurities to the surface. Whiteheads may come to a head and begin to resolve. Deep, painful spots feel less inflamed. The blemish typically begins to flatten and shrink.
91% users noticed faster disappearance (7-day study)Significant Size Reduction
Clinical data shows 56% reduction in blemish size after 7 days. The spot is typically flattened and in the healing/drying phase. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is limited — the formula's zinc component supports mark prevention.
56% reduction in blemish size (clinical study, 7 days)Mark Limitation & Skin Clarity
The formula limits the appearance of post-blemish marks by 86% according to clinical data. The salicylic acid component helps prevent clogging in the same pore after healing. Continued use on new spots maintains clearer skin over time.
86% limitation of post-blemish marks (clinical study)Ratings by platform
19+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Works from the very first night — visible redness reduction by morning
- Clinically proven results (56% blemish size reduction in 7 days)
- Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic — suitable for sensitive skin
- Confirmed non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe
- Multi-action formula: clay, zinc, BHA, schist oil, and terpineol
- Compact 15g jar — perfect for travel and emergency use
- French pharmacy heritage with Uriage Thermal Water inclusion
- Free from parabens, silicones, sulfates, and harsh alcohols
- Limits post-blemish marks by 86%
Criticized
- Very thick paste — doesn't dry down, transfers to pillowcases
- Must be wiped off with tissue in the morning (not water-rinseable)
- 15g jar is small and can deplete faster than expected
- Less effective on deep cystic nodules vs. surfacing spots
- Contains beeswax (not vegan-friendly)
- Salicylic acid requires caution during pregnancy
- Packaging jar means repeated finger-dipping (hygienic concerns)
- Can leave a white/green residue visible on skin if too much is applied
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
French pharmacy spot treatment with salicylic acid and niacinamide. Lighter gel texture vs. the thick clay paste of Uriage SOS. Less "drawing" action but better for daily use. Does not contain zinc oxide or green clay.
Hydrocolloid patches draw out fluid from surfacing pimples while protecting from bacteria and picking. Very different mechanism (physical vs. active ingredient), but similarly effective for whiteheads. No BHA or clay, much more affordable.
Another French pharmacy brand spot treatment with salicylic acid and zinc. Gel-cream texture is lighter than Uriage's paste. Fewer clay ingredients but includes niacinamide for post-acne mark prevention. Comparable overall efficacy.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Avène Cleanance Expert Spots
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol (12M) on the packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C (77°F). Keep away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Store upright with lid securely closed.
15g glass/plastic jar with screw-on lid. Consider using a clean spatula or cotton swab for hygienic application to avoid contaminating the product with fingers.
Yes — 15g jar is well under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel kits and emergency spot treatment on-the-go.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis requires caution. The formula contains salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally not recommended for widespread use during pregnancy. However, for spot application on individual blemishes — using a small amount on an isolated area — the systemic absorption is minimal and many healthcare providers consider this low risk. The zinc oxide and clay components are considered safe topically during pregnancy. That said, always consult your OB-GYN or midwife before using any product with salicylic acid during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant and need a spot treatment, consider a benzoyl peroxide-free, BHA-free alternative such as sulfur-based treatments, which are generally regarded as safer during pregnancy.
Yes — Uriage Hyseac SOS Paste is confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe by Skincarisma's analysis. The formula does not contain fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, fermented ingredients, or other Malassezia-feeding compounds. The salicylic acid (BHA), zinc oxide, and 4-Terpineol components actually have antimicrobial activity that may be beneficial against fungal acne. This makes it one of the safer French pharmacy spot treatments for those managing both bacterial and fungal acne simultaneously.
Since Hyseac SOS Paste is a spot treatment applied as the final step of your evening routine, you can use your other actives (retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA serums) on the rest of your face as normal — just avoid direct overlap on the same spot. Do not apply retinol or a separate AHA/BHA treatment directly on top of or underneath where you are applying the paste, as this can cause over-exfoliation, irritation, or reduce the efficacy of both products. The paste itself contains salicylic acid (BHA), so layering another BHA product on the same blemish is unnecessary. Apply your broader actives first, let them absorb, apply moisturizer, then dot the SOS paste on individual spots last.
Uriage Hyseac SOS Paste is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The entire Hyseac line is formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin, and the SOS Paste reflects this with its sebum-absorbing clay and zinc base. Sensitive skin types who experience occasional breakouts will also benefit — the fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula is gentle enough for reactive skin. It is less suited to dry skin as a primary treatment, though dry skin types with occasional spots can still use it sparingly. It is officially certified non-comedogenic by Uriage, so even those prone to milia or clogged pores can use it safely on spots.
Many users report seeing a visible difference in redness and spot size after just the first night of application. Clinical data from Uriage's own study (21 volunteers, 7 days, dermatological control) shows a 56% reduction in blemish size and 86% limitation of post-acne marks after 7 days of daily application. For fast-emerging whiteheads, 1–2 nights is typically sufficient. For deeper, more inflamed spots, 3–5 nights of consecutive application is recommended. The formula is not designed for long-term all-face use — it is an SOS (emergency) treatment to be used reactively on active blemishes as they appear.
Hyseac SOS Paste is applied as the very last step in your evening (PM) skincare routine — after your cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. Apply it directly on top of individual blemishes as a spot treatment, not all over the face. It is designed for evening use only. In the morning, remove the paste using a tissue or cotton pad (do not try to rinse with water alone — the formula is hydrolipidic). Then proceed with your normal morning routine including SPF. Do not apply this paste in the morning under makeup or sunscreen.
No — Uriage Hyseac SOS Paste is officially certified non-comedogenic by the brand and has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. While it contains Cera Alba (beeswax), which has a comedogenic rating of 0–2 depending on the source, the concentration and application context (spot use only, rinsed in the morning) means pore-clogging on surrounding skin is very unlikely. The Illite clay and zinc oxide ingredients are actually comedolytic (help clear pores), and the salicylic acid exfoliates within the pore. The formula has been tested under dermatological control and is appropriate for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Uriage Hyseac SOS Paste is 12 months, indicated by the open-jar symbol with "12M" on the packaging. Given that it is a spot treatment used in small amounts on individual blemishes (not all over the face), a single 15g jar can last anywhere from several months to over a year depending on frequency of use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. As it comes in a jar, always use a clean fingertip or preferably a cotton swab to prevent introducing bacteria into the product, which can shorten its useful life.
Verdict: The Uriage Hyseac SOS Paste is one of the most thoughtfully formulated French pharmacy spot treatments available. Its multi-mechanism approach — combining zinc oxide for sebum control and anti-inflammation, Illite clay for deep extraction, schist oil sulfonate for drawing action, 4-Terpineol for targeted antimicrobial activity, and salicylic acid for pore exfoliation — addresses blemishes from multiple angles simultaneously. Backed by genuine clinical data (56% blemish reduction in 7 days, 86% mark limitation), it outperforms single-active spot treatments in both speed and completeness of results. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic profile makes it unusually accessible for sensitive skin, and its fungal acne safety adds further versatility. The thick, non-rinseable paste texture is the primary drawback — it requires tissue removal in the morning and can transfer to bedding — but this is the very property that keeps the actives working all night. For anyone with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin looking for a clinically proven, fast-acting overnight spot corrector from a trusted dermatology brand, this is a highly recommended essential.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides
Emollient, Surfactant, Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Binding
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Illite
Abrasive, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Anticaking Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Talc
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier
|
|