Ketoconazole Cream 2%
Ketoconazole Cream 2%
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength antifungal cream containing 2% Ketoconazole in a moisturizing aqueous base. Clinically indicated for tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea pedis, tinea (pityriasis) versicolor, cutaneous candidiasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Manufactured by Taro Pharmaceuticals — a generic equivalent to Nizoral Cream with the same active concentration.
Broad-Spectrum Antifungal
Ketoconazole 2% inhibits ergosterol synthesis in fungal cell membranes, effectively clearing Malassezia, Candida, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton species.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad-Spectrum Antifungal
Ketoconazole 2% inhibits ergosterol synthesis in fungal cell membranes, effectively clearing Malassezia, Candida, Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton species.
Moisturizing Cream Vehicle
The aqueous emulsion base with cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol provides skin-softening and barrier-supportive effects alongside the antifungal treatment.
Antioxidant Protection (BHA)
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) acts as a preservative antioxidant, stabilizing the formulation and protecting against oxidative degradation during storage.
Nizoral Generic Equivalent
Taro's formulation is AB-rated by the FDA — meaning it is bioequivalent to brand-name Nizoral Cream 2%, offering the same clinical efficacy at a significantly lower cost.
Minimal Systemic Absorption
Studies show that topical ketoconazole from cream application results in negligible plasma levels (below 2 ng/mL detection threshold), making it locally acting and low-risk for systemic effects.
Clean Excipient Profile
Free from fragrance, parabens, lanolin, dyes, gluten, talc, and nickel — formulated to minimize allergic reactions while delivering the active ingredient effectively.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThere are no adequate well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal studies showed embryotoxicity at high oral doses. Topical use should only occur when the potential benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Consult your OB/GYN before use.
It is unknown whether topical ketoconazole passes into breast milk. Exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before using during breastfeeding.
NOT fungal acne safe as a skincare product. While ketoconazole treats Malassezia-related conditions, the cream base contains Isopropyl Myristate, Polysorbate 60, Polysorbate 80, and Sorbitan Stearate — all known Malassezia triggers. This is a treatment cream, not a preventive skincare product.
Rated 3/5 due to Isopropyl Myristate (rating: 3–5), which is a known pore-clogger. This is a medicated cream designed for spot treatment; avoid using as a daily facial moisturizer on acne-prone skin.
Contains no added fragrances or synthetic dyes — reducing the risk of contact dermatitis and irritation, making it suitable even for reactive skin types when used as directed.
For dermatologic use only. Avoid contact with eyes. If irritation or hypersensitivity occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult a physician.
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients has not been established. Use only under physician supervision in children.
Clinical studies confirm negligible systemic absorption when applied topically per instructions. Hepatic effects seen with oral ketoconazole have not been observed with topical application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSKetoconazole 2%Proven
The active antifungal ingredient. Ketoconazole belongs to the imidazole class and works by inhibiting the fungal cytochrome P450 enzyme lanosterol 14-α-demethylase, blocking the biosynthesis of ergosterol — a critical component of fungal cell membranes. Without ergosterol, the fungal membrane becomes permeable and the organism dies.
- Mechanism: Inhibits ergosterol synthesis → disrupts fungal cell membrane integrity
- Spectrum: Effective against Malassezia furfur, Candida spp., Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum
- Indications: Tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea pedis, tinea versicolor, cutaneous candidiasis, seborrheic dermatitis
- Absorption: Systemic absorption is negligible at the 2% topical concentration; plasma levels remain below the 2 ng/mL detection limit
- Evidence: FDA-approved active ingredient with decades of clinical use; AB-rated bioequivalent to Nizoral 2% Cream
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) TraceProven
An antioxidant preservative used to stabilize the formulation and prevent oxidative degradation of the cream's lipid components. BHA is widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) at concentrations used in topical products. Note: This is the antioxidant BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), NOT the exfoliant BHA (beta-hydroxy acid/salicylic acid).
- Function: Antioxidant preservative — prevents rancidity of fatty excipients (cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, isopropyl myristate)
- Concentration: Used at very low levels (typically 0.001–0.02%) in pharmaceutical creams
- Regulatory status: FDA-approved indirect food additive and pharmaceutical excipient; EWG Skin Deep score: 1–3 depending on concentration
Cetyl Alcohol ~2–5%Proven
A fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and thickener. Despite the name "alcohol," cetyl alcohol does not dry skin — it is a skin-conditioning agent that contributes to the smooth, creamy texture of the formulation and helps deliver ketoconazole evenly across the skin surface.
- Function: Emollient + emulsifier + viscosity builder
- Comedogenic rating: 2 (low-moderate) — unlikely to cause breakouts in most people at this concentration
- Skin benefit: Softens the stratum corneum and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in the treated area
Isopropyl Myristate ~1–5%Proven
A synthetic ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid used as an emollient and skin penetration enhancer. It reduces the greasy feel of the cream and improves spreadability. As a penetration enhancer, it helps ketoconazole reach deeper skin layers where fungal infections reside.
- Function: Penetration enhancer + emollient + texture agent
- Comedogenic rating: 3–5 (high) — one of the most comedogenic cosmetic ingredients; can trigger breakouts in acne-prone individuals
- Pharmaceutical benefit: Enhances ketoconazole delivery into the stratum corneum for improved antifungal efficacy
Polysorbate 60 & Polysorbate 80 ~1–3% eachProven
Nonionic surfactants and emulsifiers that keep the oil and water phases of the cream uniformly blended. They are derived from sorbitol and fatty acids and are widely used in pharmaceutical and food-grade formulations. Both polysorbates are known potential triggers for Malassezia (fungal acne).
- Function: O/W emulsifiers — stabilize the aqueous cream and improve texture uniformity
- Fungal acne note: Both Polysorbate 60 and Polysorbate 80 are Malassezia-feeding esters — identified as fungal acne triggers by Folliculitis Scout analysis
- Safety: Well-tolerated in pharmaceutical formulations; rare contact allergy possible in highly sensitive individuals
Propylene Glycol ~5–15%Proven
A humectant and co-solvent that helps dissolve ketoconazole into the cream base and draws moisture into the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster, extending the shelf life of the formulation.
- Function: Humectant + co-solvent + mild antimicrobial enhancer
- Concentration: Typically 5–15% in pharmaceutical topical creams; at this level, it hydrates effectively
- Sensitivity note: Rare individuals with propylene glycol sensitivity may experience mild stinging or contact dermatitis
Water (Purified) Base (~60–70%)Proven
The primary solvent and continuous phase of the oil-in-water emulsion. Purified water ensures pharmaceutical-grade purity and consistent formulation stability.
- Function: Solvent + aqueous cream base vehicle
- Grade: Purified water (USP grade) as required for pharmaceutical preparations
Sorbitan Stearate (Sorbitan Monostearate) ~1–3%Proven
A nonionic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and stearic acid. Works synergistically with polysorbate 60 and 80 to form a stable oil-in-water emulsion and improve cream spreadability and skin feel.
- Function: Co-emulsifier + stabilizer
- HLB value: Low HLB (4.7) — used in combination with high-HLB polysorbates to achieve optimal emulsion stability
- Fungal acne note: Contains stearic acid ester — classified as a potential Malassezia trigger
Stearyl Alcohol ~2–5%Proven
A long-chain fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and thickening agent. It contributes to the rich, smooth texture of the cream and helps maintain emulsion consistency over time. Like cetyl alcohol, it is not drying despite being classified as an "alcohol."
- Function: Emollient + viscosity modifier + emulsion stabilizer
- Comedogenic rating: 2 (low-moderate)
- Skin effect: Improves skin softness and barrier function; well-tolerated by most skin types
10 ingredients
Ketoconazole 2% (Active) · Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) · Cetyl Alcohol · Isopropyl Myristate · Polysorbate 60 · Polysorbate 80 · Propylene Glycol · Purified Water · Sorbitan Monostearate (Sorbitan Stearate) · Stearyl Alcohol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once daily to clean, dry skin. This is a treatment cream — use only on affected areas for the prescribed duration. Do not layer other actives (retinol, AHAs, BHAs) directly on top.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse the Affected Area
Wash the affected skin with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and rinse thoroughly. Pat completely dry — moisture can dilute the cream and reduce efficacy.
Apply a Thin Layer
Using clean fingertips, apply a thin film of Ketoconazole Cream 2% to the infected area and a small margin of surrounding skin. Do not rub aggressively.
Follow the Treatment Schedule
Apply once daily. Tinea corporis and tinea cruris: treat for 2 weeks. Tinea pedis: treat for 6 weeks. Tinea versicolor: treat for 2 weeks. Seborrheic dermatitis: apply once daily for 4 weeks or until clinical clearing.
Complete the Full Course
Do not stop treatment early even if symptoms improve. Discontinuing early risks recurrence. If no improvement is seen after the treatment period, consult your physician for re-evaluation.
Wash Hands After Application
Unless hands are the area being treated, always wash hands thoroughly after applying to prevent inadvertent transfer to eyes or mucous membranes.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have a physician-diagnosed fungal skin infection (ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot, tinea versicolor)
- You're managing seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff on the scalp or body
- You want a pharmacy-grade Nizoral equivalent at a lower cost
- You have sensitive skin that can't tolerate fragranced antifungal products
- You need a clean-excipient antifungal free of parabens, lanolin, and dyes
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult physician first)
- You want an OTC antifungal without a prescription
- You have highly acne-prone skin and are concerned about Isopropyl Myristate
- You need treatment for nail fungus (requires oral or nail-specific antifungals)
- You are looking for a daily skincare moisturizer or serum — this is a pharmaceutical treatment cream only
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWorks well therapeutically, but the emollient base may feel slightly heavy on very oily skin. Apply a thin layer and allow full absorption before additional products.
The cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and propylene glycol base provides gentle moisturization alongside antifungal treatment — particularly beneficial for dry, flaky fungal skin conditions.
Suitable for combination skin when applied as a targeted spot treatment. Avoid using across the entire face as a routine product due to Isopropyl Myristate content.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free formulation is well-suited for reactive skin. Rare contact sensitivity to propylene glycol is possible — patch test if concerned.
Use with caution on actively acne-prone areas due to Isopropyl Myristate (comedogenic rating 3–5). Effective for treating fungal conditions; not suitable as a daily facial cream for breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
WEEK 6Itch Relief Begins
Most users report a reduction in itching and burning within the first few days of application. The antifungal action begins immediately upon contact with fungal organisms.
~70% noticedVisible Reduction in Redness & Scaling
Redness, flaking, and surface inflammation visibly diminish as Malassezia or dermatophyte populations are suppressed. Clinical improvement is often seen fairly quickly after treatment begins.
~60% noticedSignificant Clearing of Infection
Tinea corporis, tinea cruris, and tinea versicolor cases typically show marked clearing by week 2. Seborrheic dermatitis typically clears within 4 weeks of once-daily use.
~85% noticedFull Resolution (Tinea Pedis)
Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) requires the full 6-week course for complete mycological clearance and to minimize the risk of recurrence. Completing the full treatment period is critical.
~80% noticedRatings by platform
500+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- FDA-approved 2% ketoconazole — identical active to brand-name Nizoral at a fraction of the cost
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dye-free — minimal irritation risk
- Broad-spectrum antifungal effective against multiple fungal species
- Negligible systemic absorption — locally acting with low systemic risk
- Moisturizing cream base soothes dry, flaky skin alongside treatment
- Available in three sizes (15g, 30g, 60g) to match treatment duration needs
- Clinically effective for seborrheic dermatitis, tinea versicolor, and more
Criticized
- Prescription-only — not OTC accessible without a physician visit
- Contains Isopropyl Myristate — high comedogenic rating, not suitable for acne-prone daily use
- NOT fungal acne safe — polysorbate and ester excipients can feed Malassezia on surrounding skin
- Not recommended in pregnancy without explicit physician guidance
- Cream base can feel slightly heavy or occlusive on oily skin
- Tinea pedis requires 6 weeks of treatment — long commitment
- 15g tube may be insufficient for larger treatment areas
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The reference brand that Taro's formulation is generically equivalent to. FDA AB-rated — same active ingredient (ketoconazole 2%), same inactive base. Taro offers identical clinical efficacy at lower cost. Brand loyalty is the only differentiator.
OTC alternative for athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. Clotrimazole 1% has comparable cure rates to ketoconazole 2% for dermatophyte infections in clinical trials. Does not treat seborrheic dermatitis. No prescription needed — widely available at any pharmacy.
OTC miconazole 2% cream effective for skin fungal infections and cutaneous candidiasis. Comparable spectrum to ketoconazole for common dermatophytes but less evidence for seborrheic dermatitis. Available without a prescription.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Lotrimin AF (Clotrimazole 1%)
Monistat Care (Miconazole 2%)
Lamisil AT (Terbinafine 1%)
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening when stored correctly. Check the expiration date printed on the tube — use before the printed date regardless of when opened.
Store at controlled room temperature 20°–25°C (68°–77°F) per USP guidelines. Do not freeze. Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Pharmaceutical-grade aluminum tube with screw cap. Available in 15g, 30g, and 60g tube sizes. Tube format protects the cream from contamination and oxidation.
Yes — the 15g tube is well under the 100ml TSA liquid limit and fits easily in a travel toiletry bag. Ensure the cap is tightly secured to prevent leakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQKetoconazole Cream 2% is classified as a Pregnancy Category C drug. There are no adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal reproduction studies have shown embryotoxicity at high oral doses, though this has not been observed with topical application due to minimal systemic absorption. The cream should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit clearly justifies the potential risk to the fetus. For breastfeeding mothers, it is unknown whether topically applied ketoconazole is excreted in breast milk. Always consult your OB/GYN or healthcare provider before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No — the cream base is NOT considered fungal acne safe for daily skincare use. While ketoconazole itself is an antifungal that treats Malassezia-related conditions (seborrheic dermatitis, tinea versicolor), the excipients in the cream base include known Malassezia food sources: Polysorbate 60, Polysorbate 80, Sorbitan Stearate (a fatty acid ester), and Isopropyl Myristate. Folliculitis Scout analysis identifies 4 potential fungal acne triggers in this formulation. This is designed as a short-duration treatment cream — not a preventive daily skincare product. Use only for the prescribed treatment course as directed by your physician.
As a pharmaceutical treatment cream, it is generally best to avoid layering it with active cosmetic ingredients like retinol, Vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), or exfoliant BHAs (salicylic acid) directly on the same skin area simultaneously. These actives can compromise the skin barrier, increasing sensitivity and the risk of irritation when combined with the prescription cream. Apply ketoconazole to the treatment area and allow it to absorb fully before any other products. If you use actives in your routine, apply them to non-treated areas or at a different time of day. Consult your dermatologist for personalized layering guidance.
The cream formulation is best suited for dry to normal skin types due to its emollient, moisturizing base containing cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and propylene glycol. Those with dry, flaky skin affected by tinea versicolor or seborrheic dermatitis particularly benefit from the hydrating cream vehicle alongside antifungal treatment. For oily or acne-prone skin, use the cream only as a targeted spot treatment on affected areas — the Isopropyl Myristate in the base has a high comedogenic rating (3–5) and can clog pores if applied broadly across oily, breakout-prone skin.
Most users notice itch relief and reduced redness within the first 3–7 days of use. Visible clearing of the infection typically begins within 1–2 weeks. However, the required treatment duration varies by condition: Tinea corporis (ringworm) and tinea cruris (jock itch) — 2 weeks. Tinea versicolor — 2 weeks. Seborrheic dermatitis — 4 weeks (once daily). Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) — 6 weeks. It is critical to complete the full treatment course even if symptoms resolve early, as stopping prematurely increases the risk of recurrence. If no improvement occurs after the treatment period, consult your physician for re-diagnosis.
As a pharmaceutical treatment cream, apply it after cleansing and patting the skin completely dry. Apply a thin layer to the affected area and allow 10–15 minutes for absorption before applying any other products such as a moisturizer or sunscreen. Once daily application is standard — typically in the morning or evening as directed by your physician. Do not apply cosmetic actives (retinol, AHAs, BHAs) directly on top of the treated area at the same time. This is a targeted treatment product, not a full-face moisturizer or serum.
The overall comedogenic rating of this formulation is approximately 3 out of 5, primarily due to Isopropyl Myristate in the base — one of the most comedogenic cosmetic ingredients, rated 3–5 on the comedogenic scale. Cetyl alcohol (rating: 2) and stearyl alcohol (rating: 2) contribute modestly. This means the cream has meaningful pore-clogging potential if applied broadly to acne-prone facial skin over extended periods. As a short-duration pharmaceutical treatment (2–6 weeks, applied only to affected areas), this risk is manageable in most individuals. Avoid using it as a daily full-face moisturizer on acne-prone skin.
Taro Ketoconazole Cream 2% has a shelf life of up to 24 months when stored at the recommended controlled room temperature of 20°–25°C (68°–77°F). Always check the expiration date printed on the tube and do not use the product past that date, regardless of when it was opened. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly capped after each use to prevent contamination and oxidative degradation of the cream.
Verdict: Taro Ketoconazole Cream 2% is a reliable, FDA AB-rated generic equivalent to Nizoral Cream that delivers prescription-strength antifungal therapy at a reduced cost. Its fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dye-free formulation minimizes the risk of contact sensitization, making it a well-tolerated option for the topical treatment of tinea infections, tinea versicolor, cutaneous candidiasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. The moisturizing cream base with cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol adds emollient benefits that support healing in dry, flaky fungal skin conditions. Key limitations to be aware of: the cream base is NOT appropriate for daily cosmetic use on acne-prone skin (Isopropyl Myristate, comedogenic rating 3/5), it is NOT fungal acne safe as a skincare product, and it requires a physician's prescription. Within its intended pharmaceutical use case, this product performs clinically equivalently to its branded counterpart at a fraction of the price.
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
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 |
Ketoconazole
|
|
|
| 0 |
BHA
Masking, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Myristate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|