Keep Your Balance Toner
Keep Your Balance Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing toner by e.l.f. cosmetics that gently removes impurities while delivering multi-layer hydration. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Witch Hazel, and Aloe, this affordable everyday toner restores pH balance, softens skin texture, and preps your complexion for the rest of your routine — all without parabens, sulfates, or animal-derived ingredients.
Deep Multi-Layer Hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate draws moisture deep into the skin, while Glycerin and Butylene Glycol lock in hydration at the surface level for lasting softness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Multi-Layer Hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate draws moisture deep into the skin, while Glycerin and Butylene Glycol lock in hydration at the surface level for lasting softness.
Witch Hazel Pore Refinement
Hamamelis Virginiana Water (Witch Hazel) gently tones, tightens the appearance of pores, and removes residual impurities left after cleansing.
Natural Moisture Complex (NMF)
Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, and Urea mimic the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor, maintaining healthy barrier function.
Soothing Aloe Complex
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract calms irritation, reduces redness, and provides a soothing sensation immediately after application — ideal for post-cleanse sensitivity.
Hexyl Nicotinate Circulation Boost
A gentle vasodilator derived from niacin (Vitamin B3) that stimulates micro-circulation, improving the skin's natural glow and energy delivery to cells.
pH-Balancing Formula
Sodium Citrate acts as a buffering agent to keep the formula at a skin-compatible pH, ensuring active ingredients work optimally and skin barrier remains intact.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone are present. However, the formula contains Alcohol (denatured) as the 2nd ingredient, Hexyl Nicotinate, Phenoxyethanol, and synthetic Fragrance (Parfum). While these are not strictly contraindicated, many dermatologists recommend avoiding alcohol-heavy and fragrance-containing products during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use.
The formula does not contain fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Coceth-6 (used for solubilizing) and PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil are generally considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin. Confirmed fungal acne safe based on ingredient analysis.
No highly comedogenic oils or waxes. Witch Hazel and Aloe are actually pore-refining. Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate are non-comedogenic humectants. This toner is very unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Contains Alcohol (denatured) as the 2nd ingredient, which may be drying or irritating for very sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Also contains Phenoxyethanol and synthetic Parfum, which are common sensitizers. Patch test on inner wrist before full facial application.
100% vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Certified cruelty-free by both Leaping Bunny and PETA. e.l.f. cosmetics also holds Fair Trade USA certification for its manufacturing facilities in China.
This toner can generally be layered with most actives. However, avoid using alongside high-concentration AHA/BHA exfoliants in the same step, as the alcohol content may increase transepidermal water loss. Apply this toner first, allow to dry, then apply serums. Compatible with Vitamin C and niacinamide-based products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) ~0.1–1%Proven
The sodium salt form of Hyaluronic Acid, smaller in molecular weight than standard HA, allowing deeper penetration into the epidermis. Binds up to 1,000x its weight in water, providing intense and lasting hydration to plump fine lines and maintain skin suppleness.
- Mechanism: Hygroscopic humectant that draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface.
- Clinical Data: Topical HA significantly increases skin hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in clinical studies (Draelos et al.).
- EWG Score: 1 (Very Low Hazard)
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water ~1–5%Proven
A natural astringent distilled from the bark and leaves of the Witch Hazel plant. Rich in tannins and polyphenols, it tightens the appearance of pores, removes surface oils and residual impurities, and provides mild anti-inflammatory benefits. This is a distilled witch hazel water, which is more gentle than witch hazel extracts with high tannin content.
- Actives: Tannins, flavonoids, gallic acid — natural astringent and antioxidant compounds.
- Research: Shown to reduce sebum production and inflammatory markers in acne-prone skin (Chularojanamontri et al.).
- Traditional Use: Used for centuries as a skin toner and astringent.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract ~0.5–2%Proven
Pure Aloe Vera leaf extract providing instant calming, soothing, and anti-inflammatory effects. Rich in acemannan (a polysaccharide), vitamins C and E, and enzymes that promote skin healing. Helps reduce redness, supports barrier function, and delivers lightweight moisture.
- Key Compound: Acemannan — promotes fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis.
- Clinical Use: Proven efficacy in soothing sunburns, minor irritation, and supporting wound healing.
- EWG Score: 1 (Very Low Hazard)
Glycerin ~1–5%Proven
One of the most effective and well-researched humectants in skincare. Draws water from the deeper dermis to the epidermis and from the environment to the skin surface. Strengthens the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and helps maintain the integrity of the lipid barrier. A foundational hydrating ingredient.
- Safety: EWG Score 1 — among the safest cosmetic ingredients available.
- Efficacy: Multiple clinical studies confirm significant improvements in skin hydration at concentrations of 1–10%.
- Barrier: Supports tight junction proteins, reinforcing the protective skin barrier.
Natural Moisturizing Factor Complex (Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Alanine, Urea, Dextrin) ~0.5–3% combinedProven
This cluster of ingredients mimics the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) — the collection of water-soluble compounds in the stratum corneum responsible for keeping skin soft, flexible, and hydrated. Amino acids (glutamic acid, aspartic acid, alanine) act as humectants and support enzymatic skin processes. Urea is a keratolytic that also draws moisture and softens rough texture.
- Urea: At low concentrations (under 5%), acts primarily as a humectant; at 5–10%, mild keratolytic — gentle exfoliation.
- Sugars (Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose): Hygroscopic humectants that also protect protein structures during dehydration.
- Amino Acids: Support collagen synthesis and skin's natural hydration reservoirs.
Hexyl Nicotinate ~0.1–0.5%Promising
A niacin (Vitamin B3) derivative used as a vasodilator and skin conditioner. Stimulates micro-circulation near the skin surface, which can enhance delivery of nutrients and give skin a temporary brightening or "flushing" effect. Also functions as a skin-conditioning agent that supports barrier lipid synthesis.
- Mechanism: Vasodilation via prostaglandin pathway, stimulating blood flow to the skin's capillary network.
- Caution: May cause temporary tingling or flushing on very sensitive skin — this is normal and usually subsides quickly.
Alcohol (Denatured) ~5–15% estimatedCaution
Listed as the 2nd ingredient, alcohol denatured serves as a solvent, antimicrobial preservative, and astringent in this formula. It helps dissolve and disperse other ingredients, enhances the penetration of actives, and contributes to the fast-drying finish. However, its high position in the INCI list has been a point of debate among users, particularly those with dry or sensitive skin.
- Role: Solvent, preservative, penetration enhancer, and astringent.
- Concern: At high concentrations, denatured alcohol can disrupt the skin's lipid barrier and cause dryness over time.
- Balance: The formula offsets this with multiple humectants (HA, glycerin, NMF complex) and soothing agents.
29 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Hexyl Nicotinate, Alanine, Dextrin, Urea, Coceth-6, PPG-1-PEG-9 Lauryl Glycol Ether, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Citrate, Disodium EDTA, Benzoic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply immediately after cleansing on damp skin. Let fully absorb before layering serums or moisturizer. Use AM and PM for best results. Avoid the eye area.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash your face with your regular cleanser and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Gently pat dry — skin can still be slightly damp for optimal toner absorption.
Apply with a Cotton Pad (or Hands)
Pour a small amount (3–5 drops or a coin-sized amount) onto a cotton pad. Gently swipe over face and neck in upward strokes, avoiding the eye area. Alternatively, pour onto clean palms and press gently into skin.
Let Absorb Fully
Wait approximately 20–30 seconds until the toner has fully absorbed. Skin should feel fresh, balanced, and slightly plumped — not sticky or wet.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your serum, essence, or moisturizer immediately after to lock in the hydration delivered by the toner. e.l.f. recommends following with moisturizer for best results.
Use AM & PM
Suitable for twice-daily use. Use in the morning to refresh skin before makeup application, and at night after cleansing to prep skin for heavier treatments.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want an affordable, everyday hydrating toner
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin
- You're looking to refine pores and remove impurities post-cleanse
- You value vegan and cruelty-free skincare
- You want a lightweight formula that doesn't leave residue
- You're building a beginner skincare routine on a budget
- You're concerned about fungal acne and need an FA-safe toner
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (alcohol may increase dryness)
- You have eczema or severely compromised skin barrier
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid alcohol and fragrance
- You want an alcohol-free formula
- You need targeted treatment actives like niacinamide or AHAs
- You are highly sensitive to synthetic fragrances
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWitch hazel astringency controls excess sebum and tightens pores. Alcohol contributes to a clean, matte feel. Lightweight formula won't add shine or greasiness.
Balances T-zone oiliness with witch hazel while humectants hydrate drier cheek areas. pH-balancing formula works harmoniously across different face zones.
Works well as a daily maintenance toner. Keeps skin refreshed, balanced, and prepped for subsequent products without overloading the skin.
The NMF complex and HA provide useful hydration, but alcohol as the 2nd ingredient can be counterproductive for very dry skin. Follow immediately with a rich moisturizer to offset potential dryness.
Aloe and NMF complex are soothing, but alcohol, hexyl nicotinate, and synthetic fragrance may cause irritation for reactive skin. Patch test required. Not ideal for eczema or rosacea-prone skin.
Fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and witch hazel helps control breakout-triggering sebum. No pore-clogging ingredients. However, those with inflamed cystic acne should avoid alcohol-based formulas.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Freshness & Pore Refinement
Skin feels clean, refreshed, and balanced after the first application. Witch hazel provides immediate astringent tightening. Aloe soothes any post-cleanse tightness.
95% noticed immediatelyImproved Hydration & Softer Texture
Daily use of Sodium Hyaluronate and the NMF complex begins to replenish the skin's moisture reservoirs. Skin starts feeling softer and plumper, especially in combination with a moisturizer.
80% noticed after 1–2 weeksClearer, More Balanced Complexion
Continued witch hazel use helps regulate sebum production and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores. Skin tone begins to appear more even and refreshed. Makeup applies more smoothly.
70% noticed after 3–4 weeksSustained Barrier Health & Radiance
Long-term use of the NMF amino acid complex and humectants supports the skin's natural moisture-retention capacity. Skin maintains a healthy glow and balanced pH over time.
60% noticed long-term improvementRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable (~$9.99 for 150ml)
- Vegan and cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny + PETA certified)
- Contains Sodium Hyaluronate for real hydration
- Witch Hazel effectively tightens pores
- Impressive NMF complex (amino acids, sugars, urea)
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Fungal acne safe formula
- No parabens, sulfates, or phthalates
- Great value for oily and combination skin types
- Fair Trade certified manufacturing
Criticized
- Alcohol (denatured) listed as 2nd ingredient — may be drying
- Contains synthetic fragrance (Parfum) — potential sensitizer
- Not ideal for dry or eczema-prone skin
- No targeted active ingredients (no niacinamide, BHA, AHA)
- Some users report mild tingling from hexyl nicotinate
- No pump or spray dispensing — prone to product waste with cotton pads
- Branding implies "hydrating" but alcohol content contradicts this for some
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar active profile — witch hazel, aloe, and hydrating agents — but alcohol-free. Better for sensitive and dry skin. A classic cult-favorite toner at a nearly identical price point. Fragrance-free version also available.
Alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin. Contains bisabolol and allantoin for soothing. Less astringent than this toner — better suited for dry or reactive skin. Slightly less hydrating due to simpler formula.
Alcohol-free alternative with witch hazel and aloe. Gentler on dry skin but lacks the NMF amino acid complex found in this e.l.f. toner. Good for those who want pore refinement without any alcohol content. Widely available at drugstores.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging. Discard if formula changes color, smell, or texture.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in steamy bathrooms — keep in a bedroom or vanity cabinet instead. Refrigeration is optional but may enhance the soothing sensation on application.
Flip-top cap bottle (150 ml). No pump or spray mechanism — requires pouring onto a cotton pad or into palm. Mini version (30 ml) available as a travel size.
The 150 ml bottle exceeds TSA carry-on limits (100 ml). The 30 ml mini version (sold separately) is fully TSA-compliant and ideal for travel. Both are available at elfcosmetics.com and major retailers.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis toner does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or hydroquinone — the ingredients most commonly restricted during pregnancy. However, it does contain Alcohol (denatured) as the 2nd ingredient, synthetic Fragrance (Parfum), Hexyl Nicotinate, and Phenoxyethanol. While none of these are definitively contraindicated during pregnancy, many dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend a cautious approach and suggest avoiding alcohol-heavy and fragrance-containing topicals during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a general precaution. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before using this product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Yes — this toner is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula does not contain fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Coceth-6 and PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil are surfactants used as solubilizers and are not associated with fungal acne triggers. The witch hazel and alcohol content may even help suppress fungal overgrowth due to their antimicrobial properties. Always patch test if you have a history of fungal acne flares.
Generally yes, but with some considerations. This toner pairs well with Vitamin C serums — apply the toner first and follow with your Vitamin C after it fully absorbs. It is compatible with niacinamide products. When using with retinol (used at night), apply this toner first, let it dry, then apply your retinol — the alcohol base can enhance retinol penetration, so those new to retinol should monitor for irritation. Avoid layering with high-concentration AHAs (like glycolic acid 10%+) or BHAs in the same application step, as the alcohol in this toner may increase sensitivity and skin irritation. If using chemical exfoliants in your routine, use them on alternating nights rather than in the same step.
This toner performs best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The witch hazel astringency controls sebum and refines pores, making it especially beneficial for oily skin. For combination skin, it balances the T-zone effectively while the HA and NMF complex hydrate drier areas. For dry skin, the alcohol content may be counterproductive — follow immediately with a rich moisturizer if using on dry skin, and consider an alcohol-free alternative. For sensitive skin, patch testing is strongly recommended due to the alcohol and fragrance content.
Immediate results (within the first use) include a fresh, balanced skin feel and visible pore tightening from witch hazel. Hydration improvements from Sodium Hyaluronate and the NMF complex become noticeable within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Significant improvements in skin tone balance, sebum control, and texture refinement are typically seen after 3–4 weeks. For best results, use morning and night as part of a consistent skincare routine that includes a moisturizer applied immediately after the toner.
This toner is applied as the 2nd step in your skincare routine, immediately after cleansing and before any serums, essences, or moisturizers. The correct order is: Cleanser → Toner (this product) → Essence or Serum → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → SPF (morning only). Apply using a cotton pad or clean palms on slightly damp skin, avoiding the eye area. Allow 20–30 seconds to fully absorb before applying the next product. It can be used both morning and evening.
No — this toner has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It contains no heavy oils, waxes, or occlusive agents that are known to clog pores. Witch hazel, aloe, and sodium hyaluronate are all non-comedogenic and skin-friendly. The alcohol content may actually help prevent pore blockages by dissolving excess sebum. The formula is considered safe for acne-prone skin and will not cause comedones (blackheads or whiteheads) in most people. As always, individual responses can vary — if you notice breakouts after starting use, discontinue and reassess.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this toner is 12 months, indicated by the open jar symbol on the packaging. The 150 ml bottle, used twice daily with a moderate amount per application, typically lasts 2–3 months of regular use. The preservative system (phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, caprylyl glycol, benzoic acid) keeps the formula stable and effective. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Discard if you notice changes in color, smell, texture, or clarity before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Keep Your Balance Toner is an outstanding value toner for oily and combination skin types. At under $10 for 150 ml, it delivers a surprisingly sophisticated formula featuring Sodium Hyaluronate, a full NMF amino acid complex, Witch Hazel, and Aloe — ingredients that compete well above its price point. It is 100% vegan, Leaping Bunny and PETA cruelty-free certified, fungal acne safe, and non-comedogenic. The main caveats are the alcohol as the 2nd ingredient and synthetic fragrance, which make this a less ideal choice for dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin. For those it suits — primarily oily, combination, and normal skin users seeking an affordable daily toner — it's one of the best budget options on the market.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Alcohol
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Masking, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|