Keep It Clear Acne Foam Cleanser
Keep It Clear Acne Foam Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A doctor-founded, dermatologist-approved 2% salicylic acid foam cleanser that treats and prevents acne while brightening post-breakout marks — without alcohol, fragrance, or a harsh, stripping feel. Powered by a superblend of prebiotic extracts, azelaic acid, tea tree oil, and licorice root, it cleanses deeply yet gently enough for daily use morning and night.
Maximum OTC Salicylic Acid
Formulated with 2% salicylic acid — the highest concentration available without a prescription — to dissolve excess sebum, exfoliate inside pores, and prevent future breakouts at the source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMaximum OTC Salicylic Acid
Formulated with 2% salicylic acid — the highest concentration available without a prescription — to dissolve excess sebum, exfoliate inside pores, and prevent future breakouts at the source.
Prebiotic Microbiome Support
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate (a probiotic extract) feeds the skin's beneficial microbiome, reinforcing the natural barrier and calming inflammation that contributes to acne flares.
Azelaic Acid for Blemish Marks
Azelaic acid reduces post-acne hyperpigmentation and redness, helping fade the dark marks left behind by breakouts for a more even, brighter-looking complexion.
Superfood Botanical Complex
Licorice root brightens, blueberry fruit extract delivers antioxidants, ginger root calms inflammation, and noni fruit (Morinda Citrifolia) provides additional skin-soothing benefits.
Tea Tree Antibacterial Action
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil brings natural antibacterial properties to combat acne-causing bacteria, complementing the chemical exfoliation of salicylic acid.
Hydrates While It Cleanses
Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Algin (from brown algae), and Phospholipids maintain skin hydration and barrier integrity, ensuring skin never feels dry or stripped after cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid (BHA). While low-dose topical salicylic acid in rinse-off cleansers is generally considered lower-risk than leave-on products, many OB-GYNs recommend avoiding it during pregnancy as a precaution. Always consult your doctor before use while pregnant or nursing.
Free from fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The Lactococcus Ferment Lysate is a lysate (dead cell material), not a live ferment, making this cleanser safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No known pore-clogging oils in the formula. The cleansing agents are non-occlusive sulfosuccinates and sulfolaurates. Salicylic acid actively unclogs pores, making this highly suitable for acne-prone and congested skin types.
Formulated without synthetic fragrance or drying alcohols (ethanol, SD alcohol, denatured alcohol), reducing the risk of contact dermatitis and skin barrier disruption for sensitive skin types.
All 28 ingredients are plant-derived or synthetically produced with no animal-derived components. TULA Skincare is a cruelty-free brand that does not test on animals.
Salicylic acid and lactic acid can increase photosensitivity. Apply SPF 30+ every morning, especially when using this cleanser as part of your AM routine. Discontinue if excessive dryness or peeling occurs.
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia) and ginger root extract may cause reactions in highly reactive skin. Patch test recommended before full use. Most users with moderately sensitive skin tolerate this well as it is a rinse-off formula.
Uses gentler SLS-free cleansing agents (Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate) that effectively cleanse without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. No parabens, no silicones.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
The star active ingredient and the maximum concentration available over-the-counter without a prescription. A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve the sebum and dead cell buildup that causes blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne.
- Mechanism: Loosens desmosomes (cell bonds) inside follicles, enabling pores to shed dead cells more efficiently and prevent future clogs.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits arachidonic acid metabolism, reducing redness and swelling around existing blemishes.
- Proven efficacy: FDA-recognized OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2% concentration. Clinically proven to reduce acne lesion counts with consistent use.
Azelaic Acid Low %Proven
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid (found in grains) with multifunctional benefits for acne-prone skin. While present at a lower concentration in this cleanser than in dedicated azelaic acid treatments, it contributes brightening and anti-inflammatory effects to the formula.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks left by pimples).
- Antibacterial: Disrupts the protein synthesis of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the bacterium involved in inflammatory acne.
- Pregnancy note: Considered safer than salicylic acid in pregnancy at prescribed concentrations; present here as a secondary ingredient.
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate PrebioticProven
A probiotic-derived ingredient consisting of lysate (inactivated cell material) from Lactococcus bacteria. This is the signature prebiotic technology behind the TULA brand, designed to nourish the skin's beneficial microbiome and reinforce the skin barrier.
- Microbiome balance: Helps maintain the diversity of beneficial skin bacteria, counteracting the dysbiosis associated with acne-prone skin.
- Barrier support: Stimulates keratinocyte activity and supports production of natural moisturizing factors (NMFs).
- Fungal acne safe: As a lysate (dead material), it does not feed Malassezia yeast — safe for fungal acne-prone individuals.
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil Low %Promising
An essential oil extracted from the Australian tea tree, long used for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. In this rinse-off cleanser, it contributes antibacterial action against acne-causing bacteria without significant sensitization risk.
- Antimicrobial: Terpinen-4-ol (the main active component) disrupts bacterial cell membranes, effective against Cutibacterium acnes.
- Clinical data: A 5% tea tree oil gel has been shown to be as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide for mild-to-moderate acne with fewer side effects.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract Low %Proven
Derived from licorice root, this extract contains glabridin and licochalcone A — two potent compounds with anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. TULA specifically highlights this "superfood" for fading post-breakout marks.
- Glabridin: Inhibits UVB-induced pigmentation by blocking tyrosinase — more potent than kojic acid in some studies.
- Anti-inflammatory: Licochalcone A down-regulates inflammatory cytokine pathways, helping calm active blemish redness.
Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract AntioxidantPromising
Wild blueberry fruit extract is rich in anthocyanins, flavonoids, and vitamin C precursors. In skincare, it serves as a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollution — which can worsen acne and hyperpigmentation.
- Antioxidant capacity: Blueberry extract demonstrates high ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) values, providing meaningful environmental defense.
- Skin protecting: Helps prevent oxidative stress-induced collagen degradation, supporting long-term skin health alongside acne treatment.
Glycerin HumectantProven
A cornerstone humectant that draws water from the atmosphere and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum. Its inclusion is critical in this cleanser to offset the potential drying effects of salicylic acid and ensure skin remains hydrated post-cleanse.
- Water-binding: Holds up to 10× its weight in water; strengthens the skin's natural moisture factor (NMF) complex.
- Barrier repair: Modulates the differentiation of keratinocytes, supporting healthy skin turnover and barrier function.
Hydrolyzed Algin HydratorPromising
A hydrolyzed form of algin (alginate) derived from brown seaweed. It forms a lightweight film on the skin surface that locks in moisture while also providing trace minerals. Its inclusion supports the "non-drying" profile of this formula.
- Film-forming: Creates a moisture-retaining barrier on skin without heaviness or pore-clogging, comedogenic rating 0.
- Mineral-rich: Brown algae delivers iodine, zinc, and polysaccharides that support skin hydration and texture.
Lactic Acid AHAProven
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from fermentation. While present at a lower concentration in this cleanser than in dedicated exfoliant serums, it contributes mild surface exfoliation and additional brightening, working in tandem with the BHA salicylic acid for dual-exfoliant action.
- Surface exfoliation: Breaks bonds between dead corneocytes, accelerating cell turnover and improving skin texture and tone.
- NMF component: At low concentrations, lactic acid acts as a humectant — it is a natural component of the skin's own moisture factors.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract Anti-InflammatoryPromising
Ginger root extract provides 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol — bioactive compounds with documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. These help calm the visible redness and swelling associated with active breakouts.
- COX inhibition: Gingerols inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing pro-inflammatory prostaglandins — similar mechanism to common anti-inflammatory agents.
- Antioxidant: Scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the skin surface, reducing oxidative acne triggers.
28 ingredients
Active: Salicylic Acid 2% · Inactive: Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate, Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Azelaic Acid, Morinda Citrifolia Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Lactic Acid, Hydrolyzed Algin, Glycerin, Citric Acid, Phospholipids, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Glycolate, Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate, Butylene Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis is aStep 1 cleanser — always the first product applied to wet skin. Use AM & PM. Do not layer additional high-dose AHAs or BHAs immediately after without consulting a dermatologist.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash face with lukewarm water — not hot, as heat can increase skin sensitivity and irritation when using active ingredients like salicylic acid.
Pump & Lather
Dispense 1–2 pumps (or 2–3 pumps per Ulta instructions) into your hands. The formula will foam up lightly as you work it between your palms before applying to the face.
Massage Gently for 30–60 Seconds
Apply to face and neck using gentle circular motions. Spend extra time on acne-prone zones (T-zone, chin, jawline). Avoid the eye area. Gentle massage helps the salicylic acid penetrate pores effectively.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with cool or lukewarm water. Ensure no product residue remains, especially around the hairline and jaw. Pat dry gently with a clean towel — do not rub.
Continue Your Routine
Follow immediately with toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for maximum ingredient absorption. Apply SPF every morning. Use daily, both AM and PM for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with regular or hormonal breakouts
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want to fade post-acne dark marks alongside cleansing
- You prefer fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulas
- You follow a microbiome-supportive skincare approach
- You want to avoid harsh, stripping cleansers that leave skin tight
- You are concerned about fungal acne (Malassezia)
- You are a teen or adult with mild to moderate acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You have very dry, flaky, or severely dehydrated skin
- You have a known sensitivity to salicylic acid or tea tree oil
- You have cystic, nodular, or severe acne requiring prescription treatment
- You prefer scented or sensory-driven cleansers
- You are already using a high-strength prescription BHA treatment (risk of over-exfoliation)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid penetrates sebum-filled pores to dissolve excess oil and prevent congestion. Leaves skin feeling clean and balanced without a greasy after-feel.
Specifically formulated for this skin type. The combination of 2% salicylic acid, azelaic acid, tea tree oil, and prebiotics provides comprehensive acne treatment at the cleansing step.
Balances oily zones without over-drying drier areas thanks to glycerin and hydrolyzed algin. Highly popular for T-zone oiliness with normal or dry cheek areas.
May cause extra dryness for already-dehydrated skin types. The glycerin helps, but those with dry skin should start with once-daily use and follow with a rich moisturizer. TULA recommends this even for dry skin, but individual results vary.
Fragrance-free and alcohol-free formulation removes common irritant triggers. However, tea tree oil and dual-acid exfoliation may cause sensitivity in highly reactive skin. Patch test first; start once daily.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Freshness & Cleaner Pores
Skin feels noticeably cleaner and less congested after first use. Foam formula rinses completely without residue. Some users with sensitive skin may notice mild tingling from the salicylic acid — this is normal.
90% noticed cleaner skin after first washInitial Purging & Pore Clarity
Some users may experience a "purging" phase as salicylic acid accelerates the turnover of congestion already forming under the skin. Existing blackheads and whiteheads begin to surface and clear. Stick with it — this is the active working.
70% reported reduced surface congestionFewer New Breakouts
Consistent BHA use begins to show preventative results. New breakout frequency visibly decreases. Skin texture smooths as dead cell buildup is reduced. Redness from existing blemishes starts to calm.
65% reported fewer new pimplesClearer Complexion & Fading Marks
Azelaic acid and licorice root begin visibly fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Skin tone appears more even. Majority of users report significantly improved overall complexion clarity. Product lasts approximately 8–10 weeks at recommended usage.
80% reported noticeably clearer skin at 8 weeksLong-Term Acne Management
With continued use, skin microbiome becomes more balanced thanks to prebiotic extracts. Breakout cycles reduce in frequency and severity. Post-acne marks continue to fade. Many users report using this for 1–3 years as their permanent cleanser.
Loyal users report 3+ year consistent resultsRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum 2% salicylic acid — highest OTC strength available
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free — gentle on sensitive skin
- Doesn't strip or leave skin feeling tight after rinsing
- Dual-action: clears acne AND fades post-breakout marks (azelaic acid + licorice)
- Prebiotic complex supports healthy skin microbiome
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula
- Suitable for all ages including teens
- Doctor-founded brand with clinically effective formulation
- Lasts 8–10 weeks at recommended usage (2x daily)
Criticized
- Higher price point (~$36) vs. drugstore BHA cleansers
- Can be drying for very dry skin types if used twice daily
- Tea tree oil may cause reactions in highly sensitive individuals
- Not recommended during pregnancy without doctor approval
- May not be strong enough for severe cystic or nodular acne alone
- Initial purging phase can concern new users in the first 2–3 weeks
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains 2% salicylic acid plus niacinamide and ceramides for barrier support. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic. Lacks TULA's azelaic acid, licorice brightening complex, and probiotic technology. More basic formula but clinically proven and widely dermatologist-recommended.
Contains 0.5% salicylic acid (lower than TULA's 2%). Gel formula rather than foam. Very gentle and suitable for sensitive skin. Does not include probiotic extracts or the brightening azelaic acid component. Good choice for sensitive skin that can't tolerate full 2% BHA.
Foam format with 2% salicylic acid matching TULA's active concentration at a fraction of the price. Lacks the premium superfood botanicals, azelaic acid, and prebiotic complex. May feel slightly more stripping for dry skin. A solid daily driver for those on a budget.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Face Wash (BPO)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. An expiration date is printed on the back of the product. Use before the printed date for best results and active ingredient potency.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in extremely hot or humid environments (e.g., in a car or near a shower with prolonged steam exposure).
Pump bottle (180 mL / 6.3 fl oz). The pump dispenser ensures hygienic, measured dispensing and minimizes contamination. Each pump delivers an appropriate dose for one cleanse.
The 180 mL full-size bottle exceeds the 100 mL TSA carry-on limit. TULA offers a travel-size version (part of their Clear Skin Starters kit) that is compliant with airline carry-on liquid rules. Full size is ideal for checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe main active ingredient, salicylic acid (2%), is classified as a Pregnancy Category C ingredient. Many OB-GYNs advise avoiding high-concentration salicylic acid during pregnancy, particularly in leave-on products. As a rinse-off cleanser, the absorption is lower than leave-on formulas, but the safety profile during pregnancy remains a caution. TULA states that many customers use their products through pregnancy and nursing but strongly recommends consulting your doctor before use. Until you receive medical clearance, it is safer to switch to a gentle, salicylic-acid-free cleanser during pregnancy.
Yes — this cleanser is considered fungal acne safe. The formula does not contain problematic fatty acids (lauric, palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic in free form), polysorbates, or fermentation-based esters that feed Malassezia yeast. The Lactococcus Ferment Lysate is a lysate (inactivated/dead cell material), not a live ferment, which means it does not provide a food source for Malassezia. Salicylic acid itself has mild antifungal properties. This makes Keep It Clear a suitable cleanser for those managing both bacterial acne and fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) simultaneously.
Yes, with care. As a rinse-off cleanser, the salicylic acid has limited residual contact time, meaning you can generally layer most actives in your follow-up routine. Vitamin C serums can be used after cleansing without issue. Retinol can be used in the PM routine after cleansing — however, if using a high-strength prescription retinoid, consult a dermatologist before stacking with a 2% BHA cleanser to avoid over-exfoliation. Avoid using additional high-strength AHA (glycolic, mandelic) or BHA leave-on products in the same routine if skin feels tight or irritated. When starting out, use once daily and monitor skin response before committing to twice daily use.
Keep It Clear is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — TULA's own recommendation. It is particularly effective for those dealing with blackheads, whiteheads, hormonal breakouts, and post-acne dark marks. Those with combination skin (oily T-zone, drier cheeks) typically see excellent results. Dry skin types may find it slightly drying and should follow with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin types can generally use it given its fragrance-free and alcohol-free formulation, but should patch test first due to tea tree oil and dual-acid content. Not recommended as a sole treatment for severe, cystic, or nodular acne — pair with prescription treatments for severe cases.
Initial cleansing benefits (cleaner, less congested feel) are noticeable from the first use. Acne-clearing results typically become visible within 3–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. A "purging" phase is possible in the first 1–2 weeks as salicylic acid pushes congestion to the surface — this is normal and usually resolves quickly. Meaningful improvements in acne frequency and post-breakout mark fading are typically apparent by weeks 6–8. Community reviews from TULA's website include multiple users who have maintained clear skin after 1–3 years of continued use. For best results, use consistently twice daily and pair with an appropriate moisturizer and daily SPF.
Keep It Clear is always Step 1 — your first cleanse on clean, wet skin. Apply to a damp face, massage for 30–60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly. After cleansing, follow with toner or essence, then serums/treatments, then moisturizer, and SPF in the morning. Do not apply it on top of other skincare products. Use it both morning and night for maximum acne-prevention benefit. It is a rinse-off product and should not be used as a leave-on mask or spot treatment.
No — Keep It Clear has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it is considered non-comedogenic. The cleansing agents (Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate) are not pore-clogging. Notably, the active ingredient salicylic acid is a pore-clearing BHA — it actively works to dissolve the sebum and dead cell buildup that causes blocked pores. There are no heavy oils or waxes in the formula. This cleanser is a strong choice for those specifically concerned about pore congestion, blackheads, and comedonal acne.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. TULA also prints a specific expiration date on the back of the bottle — use before that date for full potency, particularly of the salicylic acid active. At recommended usage (1–2 pumps, twice daily), one 180 mL bottle lasts approximately 8–10 weeks. If you notice a change in smell, texture, or color before the expiration date, discontinue use. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct heat and sunlight to maintain stability.
Verdict: The TULA Keep It Clear Acne Foam Cleanser earns its place as one of the most well-rounded acne cleansers on the market. By combining the maximum OTC concentration of salicylic acid (2%) with a multi-functional botanical complex featuring azelaic acid, prebiotic extracts, licorice root, and tea tree oil — all in a fragrance-free, alcohol-free, sulfate-free base — TULA has created an acne treatment cleanser that works harder than most. It clears breakouts, prevents new ones, brightens post-acne marks, and supports the skin microbiome simultaneously, without sacrificing the comfort of a non-stripping, non-drying formula. The $36 price point is higher than drugstore alternatives, but the premium multi-action formulation, 8–10 week supply per bottle, and the consistently positive multi-platform reviews justify the investment for acne-focused skincare routines.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfolaurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium 2-Sulfolaurate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Cleansing, Foaming, Hydrotrope, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
Perfuming, Antioxidant
|
Hydrating
|