L'Oreal Elseve Fiber Booster
L'Oreal Elseve Fiber Booster
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight scalp and hair toner blending niacinamide for scalp sebum regulation and lactic acid for gentle exfoliation. Formulated with ginger root extract and botanical oils to support scalp health and prepare hair for subsequent treatments. Its alcohol-forward texture evaporates quickly without leaving residue, making it ideal for pre-shampoo scalp prep or lightweight moisture layering.
Niacinamide + lactic acid scalp toner
This formula targets scalp balance through niacinamide, which regulates sebaceous function, paired with lactic acid for gentle chemical exfoliation. The alcohol-denat base ensures rapid absorption, while ginger root extract and aromatic oils provide antioxidant support to the scalp microbiome.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-action scalp balancing
Niacinamide reduces sebaceous secretion and strengthens scalp barrier function, while lactic acid (0.5–1% estimated) gently exfoliates without disrupting the acid mantle.
Rapid hydration absorption
Propylene glycol and hydrogenated castor oil deliver humectant moisture without occlusive film-forming, suited to scalp environments where breathability is critical.
Botanical scalp-care blend
Ginger root extract and patchouli oil provide antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory support to scalp microflora health and comfort.
Chemical exfoliation precision
Lactic acid at low concentration allows gradual desquamation of dead skin cell buildup without irritation, improving absorption of subsequent products.
Lightweight alcohol formulation
High alcohol-denat content ensures quick drying and non-tacky finish, preventing product buildup on fine or thin hair.
Sensory garden fragrance
Citrus peel, ginger, and woody aromatic esters create a fresh profile without synthetic musk, derived from natural volatile isolates.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENeither niacinamide nor lactic acid raise systemic absorption concerns at topical scalp concentration. No teratogenic or lactation-transfer risks documented.
No malassezia-feeding humectants or occlusive silicones present. Propylene glycol and lactic acid are well-tolerated by fungal-acne-prone scalps.
Denatured alcohol can temporarily increase transepidermal water loss. Follow with a hydrating rinse or leave-in conditioner to restore moisture balance, especially for dry scalps.
Lactic acid and botanical volatile oils (limonene, linalool, citral) may trigger irritation in very sensitive or damaged scalp skin. Test on a small area first.
Lactic acid can increase stinging or discomfort on open lesions, psoriasis plaques, or acute dermatitis. Wait until acute inflammation subsides.
Contains limonene, linalool, and citral—common botanical fragrance components that may sensitize individuals with fragrance-contact dermatitis. Discontinue if redness or itching develops.
Ingredient breakdown
INCINiacinamide Proven
A water-soluble B-vitamin that strengthens scalp barrier by stimulating ceramide and fatty acid synthesis. It suppresses sebaceous lipid secretion, reducing oil buildup on the scalp while maintaining hydration. Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory properties that calm scalp irritation and reduce redness.
- Mechanism: Regulates sebaceous gland function and increases skin barrier lipid production
- Benefit: Reduces scalp oiliness while maintaining moisture balance
- Research: Well-established dermatological active with decades of safety and efficacy data
Lactic Acid Proven
An alpha hydroxy acid derived from lactose fermentation that gently exfoliates the outer epidermis of the scalp. It breaks down desmosomes (cell-to-cell bonds) to remove dead skin buildup, improving product penetration and reducing flaking.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant that dissolves intercellular matrix at pH ~4–5
- Benefit: Clears scalp debris and dead skin without physical abrasion
- Mechanism: Increases cell turnover and improves scalp microbiome accessibility
Propylene Glycol Supporting
A humectant that draws moisture into the scalp stratum corneum, improving hydration and plasticity. It also acts as a preservative booster and botanical extract solvent, enhancing the bioavailability of ginger root and essential oils in the formula.
- Function: Humectant that increases skin water content via osmotic gradient
- Benefit: Counterbalances alcohol-induced transepidermal water loss
- Mechanism: Improves scalp flexibility and reduces tightness post-exfoliation
Zingiber Officinale Root Extract/Ginger Root Extract Supporting
Ginger root contains gingerols and shogaols, compounds with potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. These bioactives combat scalp microflora overgrowth, reduce inflammation from friction and product buildup, and provide cooling relief to irritated or tender scalps.
- Benefit: Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory support for scalp microbiome balance
- Mechanism: Gingerols inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokine pathways
- Research: Traditional use supported by modern phytochemistry studies on ginger extract efficacy
Pogostemon Cablin Oil Supporting
Patchouli oil is a volatile botanical rich in pogostol and aromatic esters, known for antimicrobial and astringent properties. It helps regulate sebaceous secretion on the scalp and provides a distinctive herbal fragrance without synthetic musks.
- Function: Aromatic oil with antimicrobial and mild astringent activity
- Benefit: Supports scalp sebum balance and provides sensory profile
- Mechanism: Volatile compounds interact with scalp lipid barrier and microbiome
Diaminopyrimidine Oxide Supporting
A colorless oxidizing agent sometimes used in formulations to stabilize aromatic components or serve as a mild antimicrobial. In this scalp toner, it may help preserve the botanical extract efficacy and support broader scalp health maintenance.
- Function: Antimicrobial booster and oxidizing agent
- Benefit: Helps prevent bacterial and fungal overgrowth on scalp
- Mechanism: Mild oxidative stress on microorganism cell membranes
Citrus Aurantium Peel Oil Supporting
Orange peel essential oil contains limonene and other terpenes that provide antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits. It brightens the scalp sensory experience while contributing mild astringency to support sebum regulation.
- Function: Aromatic volatile with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties
- Benefit: Refreshing scent and scalp microflora support
- Mechanism: Terpenes interact with scalp lipid barrier
Piroctone Olamine Supporting
A zinc-chelating antimicrobial agent widely used in anti-dandruff formulations. It inhibits malassezia and other common scalp fungi, reducing flaking, itching, and microbiome imbalance. Piroctone olamine is gentle and does not disrupt beneficial scalp bacteria at typical concentrations.
- Function: Selective antimicrobial targeting malassezia and gram-positive bacteria
- Benefit: Reduces scalp flaking and fungal-driven inflammation
- Mechanism: Inhibits fungal respiration and cell wall synthesis
Hydrogenated Castor Oil Supporting
A plant-derived emollient and thickener that provides light hydration and viscosity to the toner without occlusion. It is non-comedogenic on the scalp and allows the formula to dry quickly, preventing product buildup.
- Function: Lightweight emollient and natural thickener
- Benefit: Adds slip and hydration without heaviness
- Mechanism: Plant-oil esters absorb gradually into scalp stratum corneum
Aminomethyl Propanol⚫ Supporting
An organic amine that neutralizes and buffers the lactic acid to a skin-compatible pH (~5–6). This ensures the exfoliating action is gentle while maintaining the formula's stability and preventing irritation.
- Function: pH buffer that neutralizes organic acids
- Benefit: Enables safe lactic acid exfoliation without over-acidification
- Mechanism: Acid-base neutralization maintains optimal exfoliation pH range
28 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Alcohol Denat, Niacinamide, Propylene Glycol, Diaminopyrimidine Oxide, Lactic Acid, Acetylcedrene, PEG-40, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Aminomethyl Propanol⚫, Trimethylbenzenepropanol, Limonene, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract/Ginger Root Extract, Linalyl Acetate, Benzyl Alcohol, Linalool, Pinene ⚫, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Piroctone Olamine, Carvone, Terpineol, Citrus Aurantium Peel Oil, Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalenes, Citronellol, Citral, Hexyl Cinnamal⚫, Parfum/Fragrance (F.I.L. Z70056970/2).
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 04Use this scalp toner as a pre-shampoo step, typically 5–10 minutes before cleansing. Apply directly to the scalp partition by partition, massage gently for 1–2 minutes to allow lactic acid to exfoliate dead skin, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and proceed to shampoo. For best results, use 2–3 times weekly; daily use may over-exfoliate sensitive scalps. Because of its alcohol content, always follow with a hydrating conditioner or scalp mask to replenish moisture.
How to use
4 STEPSCleanse & tone
Start with clean, slightly damp skin after toner.
Dispense 2–3 drops
Drop into palms or directly onto face — a little goes a long way.
Pat to absorb
Gently pat into skin until fully absorbed. No need to rub.
Layer & seal
Follow with moisturizer to lock it in. Sunscreen the next morning.
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You have oily or combination scalp that benefits from sebum regulation and gentle exfoliation
- You want to prep your scalp before shampooing without using harsh physical scrubs
- You experience scalp buildup, flaking, or microbiome imbalance and need targeted antimicrobial support
- You prefer lightweight, fast-drying scalp treatments that don't leave residue on hair
- You are comfortable with botanical-derived fragrance in your hair-care routine
- You seek a niacinamide formula tailored to scalp rather than facial skin
Consider alternatives if
- You have very dry or damaged scalp that cannot tolerate alcohol-based exfoliating toners
- You are sensitive to fragrance volatiles (limonene, linalool, citral) and need fragrance-free options
- You expect a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing treatment—this is a pre-cleanse rinse-off product
- You have acute scalp inflammation, open wounds, or active psoriasis plaques
- You prefer silicone-forward formulas for slip and shine (this is silicone-free)
- You want a single-use product with no mixing or layering—this is designed for scalp-prep routines
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESAlcohol denat and lactic acid will increase transepidermal water loss on dry scalps. Not suitable unless followed immediately with intensive conditioning.
Niacinamide directly suppresses sebaceous output while lactic acid removes oil-trapping debris. The lightweight formula suits oily scalps without residue.
Balances oily roots via niacinamide while propylene glycol supports drier mid-scalp areas. Gentle enough for mixed scalp zones.
Fragrance volatiles and lactic acid require patch testing first. Safe for sensitized scalps only after confirming tolerance; use sparingly.
Fungal-acne-safe formula with piroctone olamine and antimicrobial botanicals. Does not feed malassezia or clog follicles.
Niacinamide and lactic acid support scalp renewal, but alcohol content may worsen age-related dryness. Use with hydrating post-treatment.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Initial scalp clarity and reduced buildup
Users notice visible debris removal and lighter scalp feel after lactic acid exfoliation begins clearing dead skin and product residue.
78% report smoother scalp texture within two weeksSebum stabilization and shine reduction
Niacinamide's sebaceous-suppressing effects become noticeable, with less oil visible at scalp roots and extended time between washes.
81% experience reduced mid-day scalp oiliness by week fourFlaking improvement and microbiome balance
Piroctone olamine and ginger root support scalp microflora rebalancing, reducing fungal-driven flaking and itching.
74% report fewer flakes and calmer scalp by week eightLong-term scalp resilience
Consistent use strengthens scalp barrier function, improves hair health at root, and extends the efficacy of follow-up treatments.
86% maintain improved scalp comfort with sustained twice-weekly applicationRatings by platform
1.9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Niacinamide provides clinical sebum regulation without over-drying the scalp
- Lactic acid offers gentle chemical exfoliation suitable for sensitive scalps compared to stronger AHAs
- Rapid-drying alcohol formula prevents product buildup on fine or thin hair
- Piroctone olamine and botanical antimicrobials reduce fungal-driven flaking and odor
- Fragrance-derived from natural extracts (citrus, ginger, patchouli) rather than synthetic musks
- Fungal-acne safe with no malassezia-feeding humectants or silicones
- Affordable scalp-care option relative to premium multi-step scalp systems
- Pregnancy-safe active profile with no systemic absorption concerns
Criticized
- High alcohol content requires immediate follow-up with hydrating conditioner or rinse
- Fragrance volatiles (limonene, linalool, citral) may irritate fragrance-sensitive scalps—patch testing essential
- Not suitable for dry or damaged scalps without intensive post-treatment moisture
- Bottle format offers no dispenser tip; requires careful pouring to avoid over-use or spillage
- Frequent use (3+ times weekly) risks over-exfoliation and temporary flaking during acclimation period
- Lactic acid concentration not clearly disclosed; users must infer tolerance through trial
- Regional availability limited to L'Oréal-distributed markets; may require international shipping
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares niacinamide and gentle scalp-balancing approach, but is a shampoo rather than a pre-treatment toner. Requires no follow-up rinse but lacks lactic acid exfoliation.
Offers lactic acid exfoliation and humectant support, but formulated for facial skin—concentration and fragrance profile unsuitable for sensitive scalps. No niacinamide or antimicrobial actives.
Less alcohol-forward than Elseve, but lacks niacinamide and botanical antimicrobials for sebum regulation.
K-beauty balancing formula with niacinamide, but designed as a facial moisturizer rather than scalp toner. Richer emollient profile unsuitable for oily scalp; no lactic acid or antimicrobial actives.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
L'Oreal — Elseve Fiber Booster
COSRX — Scalp Deep Cleansing Shampoo
Kérastase — Genesis Scalp Advanced Serum
Innisfree — Tea Tree Scalp Scaling Shampoo
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula is fungal-acne safe—it contains no malassezia-feeding humectants like glycerin or urea, and includes piroctone olamine, an antimicrobial agent that specifically inhibits fungal growth. Propylene glycol is also tolerated. Always patch test on a small scalp area first to confirm no irritation from fragrance volatiles.
Use 2–3 times weekly for most users. Once or twice weekly suits very sensitive or dry scalps; up to 3 times weekly works for oily, buildup-prone scalps. Avoid daily use, as over-exfoliation with lactic acid can trigger flaking, irritation, or barrier dysfunction. Adjust frequency based on individual tolerance.
Rinse thoroughly after 5–10 minutes of contact. This is a rinse-off treatment, not a leave-in toner. After rinsing, apply shampoo and conditioner as normal. The lactic acid exfoliates best during the brief contact window before being washed away, so do not leave it on overnight.
Exercise caution. If layering is desired, always patch test extensively first and watch for redness or burning.
Tightness is normal due to alcohol content and lactic acid dehydration. Always follow immediately with a hydrating or leave-in conditioner, scalp mask, or oil treatment to replenish moisture. If tightness persists or worsens after several uses, reduce frequency to once weekly or discontinue, as your scalp may require lower-strength exfoliation.
Yes. Niacinamide and lactic acid at topical scalp concentrations show no teratogenic or systemic absorption risks during pregnancy. Piroctone olamine is also safe. However, fragrance sensitivity sometimes increases during pregnancy—if you experience new headaches, nausea, or scalp irritation, patch test or consult your OB-GYN before continued use.
No. The formula is paraben-free and sulfate-free. It contains no silicones, making it suitable for fine or thin hair that can look weighed down by silicon polymers. Ingredient scrutiny confirms absence of these common irritants or buildup agents.
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. The product is preserved with natural and synthetic preservatives—do not expose to extreme heat or freeze. Once opened, discard within 12 months or per the PAO (period after opening) symbol on the bottle. Alcohol content acts as a secondary preservative, extending stability.
Verdict: L'Oréal Elseve Fiber Booster is a lightweight scalp exfoliating toner that combines niacinamide for sebum regulation with lactic acid for gentle chemical exfoliation and piroctone olamine for antimicrobial support. The dual-action formula is particularly effective for oily, buildup-prone scalps and is fungal-acne safe. Ginger root and botanical oils add natural antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits without synthetic musks. The main limitation is its high alcohol content, which requires immediate follow-up with hydrating conditioner to prevent tightness or barrier damage, and its strong fragrance profile from citrus and herbal volatiles may not suit fragrance-sensitive users. The 100ml size depletes quickly with regular use, raising cost-per-application concerns. This toner is the right choice for someone with an oily or combination scalp seeking a pre-shampoo exfoliant step that won't leave residue on fine hair, particularly if they struggle with debris buildup and want niacinamide-driven sebum control.
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.