Liquid Balancer
Liquid Balancer
Product Description
A lightweight pre- and postbiotic balancing toner by Nø Cosmetics — the German G-Beauty brand — formulated to strengthen the skin microbiome, calm redness, and restore barrier harmony. Free from fragrance, alcohol, parabens, and silicones, the Liquid Balancer works at the intersection of science and clean beauty to keep skin calm, balanced, and hydrated every day.
✨ Texture & Feel
Pre- & Postbiotic Microbiome Support
Inulin, Fructooligosaccharides, and Lactobacillus Ferment nourish and rebalance the skin's natural microbiome, preventing irritation and improving skin resilience over time.
Bifida Ferment Lysate — Barrier Strengthener
A star probiotic ingredient used in iconic serums worldwide. Clinically shown to reinforce the skin barrier, reduce trans-epidermal water loss, and visibly calm reactive skin.
Black Tea & Beetroot Antioxidant Complex
Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment and Beta Vulgaris Root Extract provide antioxidant protection, help even skin tone, and soothe inflammation with natural polyphenols.
Multi-Humectant Hydration System
Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Fructose, and Potassium Lactate work together to draw and lock moisture into all layers of the skin.
Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Palmitate) Brightening
A lipid-soluble form of vitamin C providing antioxidant protection and contributing to a brighter, more even complexion with consistent daily use.
SymCalmin (Avena Sativa) Anti-Itch & Redness Relief
Avena Sativa Leaf Extract (trade name SymCalmin) is clinically proven to reduce itchiness by up to 65% and redness by 50% in a double-blind study over 4 weeks at 2% concentration.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider if in doubt.
Does not contain fatty acid esters, polysorbates, oils, or other fermentable lipids known to feed Malassezia. Confirmed fungal-acne safe by community analysis on SkinSort and INCIDecoder.
Oil-free formula with zero comedogenic oils or waxes. Propylene Glycol and Glycerin are both rated 0 on the comedogenic scale. Excellent choice for acne-prone and pore-conscious skin.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free, and EU allergen-free. Dermatologically tested and manufactured under ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified conditions in Germany.
Propylene Glycol and Lactic Acid appear in the formulation. While generally well tolerated, individuals with very reactive rosacea or eczema-prone skin should patch test before full application.
This toner is water-based and free from strong acids. It is generally safe to layer with vitamin C serums, niacinamide, peptides, and retinol products. Use before potent exfoliating acids for best results.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🦠 Bifida Ferment Lysate ~3–5% Proven
A postbiotic extract derived from Bifida bacteria fermentation. One of the most researched probiotic ingredients in skincare, famously used in Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair. It significantly strengthens the skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and improves the skin's ability to repair UV-induced damage.
- Function: Skin barrier repair, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
- Research: Multiple clinical studies confirm improvement in skin texture, hydration, and reduction of fine lines with consistent use
- Benefit: Mimics the skin's own microflora to restore balance and resilience
🌱 Inulin + Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) ~1.4–2.5% Proven
Two powerful prebiotic ingredients derived from chicory and agave plants. Inulin selectively promotes the growth of beneficial skin bacteria while inhibiting harmful microbes. FOS acts as a humectant drawing moisture to the skin while also demonstrating antioxidant properties in emerging research.
- Inulin source: Chicory root, naturally occurring fructose polysaccharide
- FOS source: Blue agave plant; found naturally in bananas, onions, and garlic
- Study: Topical application of inulin shown to reduce colonization of harmful bacteria on skin surface
🍵 Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment ~2–4% Promising
A fermented black tea extract (similar to kombucha) combining yeast and bacterial fermentation to produce a complex postbiotic rich in organic acids, enzymes, and antioxidants. Supports the skin microbiome, helps lock in moisture, and contributes to a more even-toned complexion.
- Mechanism: Fermentation boosts bioavailability of antioxidant polyphenols from black tea
- Benefit: Antioxidant protection, moisture retention, microbiome support
🫐 Beta Vulgaris Root Extract (Beetroot) ~0.5–1% Promising
Beetroot extract is a natural moisturizer rich in betalains (antioxidant pigments), vitamins, and minerals. According to manufacturer data, it can increase the concentration of natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) in the upper skin layers, delivering both immediate and long-term hydration while soothing visible redness.
- Source: Beta Vulgaris root (common beetroot)
- Benefit: Natural colorant, antioxidant, NMF booster, anti-redness
🧫 Lactobacillus Ferment ~0.6–1.4% Proven
A postbiotic probiotic ferment with anti-acne and microbiome-balancing properties. Research shows it kills harmful bacteria and supports a healthy balanced microflora. Studies comparing it to salicylic acid found Lactobacillus ferment reduced acne lesion size and redness faster than the well-known BHA.
- Trade name: Leucidal Liquid SF (also serves as a natural preservative)
- Study: Outperformed salicylic acid in speed of acne lesion reduction in comparative research
- Benefit: Anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, microbiome support
🌾 Avena Sativa Leaf Extract (SymCalmin) ~2–3% Proven
A purified anti-irritant and anti-itch molecule that copies the active ingredient (Avenanthramides) from oat — one of nature's most well-known soothing plants. Under the trade name SymCalmin, this ingredient has been clinically validated in a double-blind study.
- Study design: Double-blind, 40 participants, 4-week duration
- Result: 2% SymCalmin reduced itchiness by 65% and redness by 50%
- Benefit: Anti-itch, anti-irritant, calming for sensitive and reactive skin
💎 Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid (SymCalmin base) ~0.1% Proven
The active synthetic molecule behind the SymCalmin complex, designed to mimic the soothing activity of oat-derived Avenanthramides. Works to calm inflammation, reduce redness, and relieve itchiness at the cellular level.
- Mechanism: Inhibits histamine release and inflammatory mediators
- Benefit: Anti-itch, anti-irritant, calming
✨ Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C) ~0.1–0.5% Promising
A lipid-soluble ester form of vitamin C offering antioxidant protection. While less potent than pure L-ascorbic acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate provides free-radical neutralization, supports collagen synthesis, and contributes to a brighter complexion at a level well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
- Stability: Lipid-soluble; more stable than pure ascorbic acid in water-based formulas
- Benefit: Antioxidant, mild brightening, anti-aging support
26 ingredients
Water, Propylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment, Inulin, Fructooligosaccharides, Beta Vulgaris Root Extract, Maltodextrin, Lactobacillus Ferment, Fructose, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Avena Sativa Leaf Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment Lysate Filtrate, Cellulose, Cellulose Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Potassium Lactate, Sodium Hydroxide
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply directly after cleansing on clean, slightly damp skin. Use morning and evening. This toner prepares the skin for the rest of your routine, boosting absorption of serums and moisturizers applied afterward.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse Your Skin
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove impurities and makeup. Pat your face dry with a clean towel, leaving skin slightly damp for better toner absorption.
Dispense & Apply
Apply a few drops (3–5 drops) directly onto fingertips or pour a small amount onto a cotton pad. Gently press and pat the product into your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Do not rub.
Allow to Absorb
Wait 20–30 seconds for the toner to fully absorb before applying your next skincare step. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky or greasy residue.
Continue Your Routine
Follow with your serum, moisturizer, and SPF (in the AM). The Liquid Balancer enhances the absorption of products applied afterward, making it an ideal first step after cleansing.
Use Daily — AM & PM
For best microbiome-balancing results, use twice daily: morning and evening. Consistent daily use is key to seeing improvements in skin texture, redness, and overall balance within 4–8 weeks.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone skin
- Your skin microbiome feels disrupted or "off balance"
- You're prone to breakouts and want a gentle, non-stripping toner
- You prefer a minimalist, fragrance-free clean beauty routine
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe option
- You follow a fungal acne safe skincare regimen
- You want a G-Beauty toner that's vegan and cruelty-free
- You have combination or oily skin prone to excess sebum
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You're looking for strong chemical exfoliation (AHA/BHA toner)
- You need high-potency vitamin C brightening above 10%
- You prefer a thick, richly textured essence format
- You want a hydrating toner with hyaluronic acid as the hero
- You have confirmed propylene glycol sensitivity
- You're seeking a dedicated anti-aging or retinol product
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Oil-free, lightweight formula helps rebalance sebum production via microbiome support. Will not add shine or clog pores (comedogenic rating: 1/5).
Multiple humectants (glycerin, fructose, potassium lactate) provide meaningful hydration. For very dry skin, follow with a richer moisturizer for optimal results.
Balances both oily T-zones and drier areas simultaneously through microbiome rebalancing. Lightweight texture suits combination skin perfectly.
Fragrance-free, EU allergen-free, and dermatologically tested. SymCalmin (Avena Sativa) clinically reduces redness and itchiness. Top choice for reactive skin.
Fungal acne safe. Lactobacillus Ferment has been shown to reduce acne lesions faster than salicylic acid. Non-comedogenic and supports a healthy skin microbiome.
A great all-round daily toner to maintain microbiome health, support skin barrier integrity, and add a layer of antioxidant protection each morning and evening.
📈 Results Timeline
Immediate Calming & Soothing
Skin feels refreshed, less irritated, and noticeably calmer after the first few applications. Redness from daily irritants and sensitivity begins to reduce thanks to SymCalmin and Bifida Ferment Lysate.
85% noticedImproved Hydration & Barrier Function
Skin feels more plump and hydrated throughout the day. The multi-humectant complex begins visibly improving skin texture and reducing the feeling of tightness after cleansing.
78% noticedFewer Breakouts & Microbiome Rebalancing
Prebiotic and postbiotic ingredients start reshaping the skin's microbiome ecosystem. Breakout frequency begins to decrease and skin texture becomes noticeably smoother and more even.
65% noticedBrighter, More Even Complexion
Antioxidant ingredients (Black Tea Ferment, Beetroot, Ascorbyl Palmitate) contribute to a visibly more even, radiant-looking skin tone. Redness and inflammation are noticeably reduced with consistent daily use.
58% noticed⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Clinically calming SymCalmin reduces redness and itching by up to 65%
- Comprehensive pre- and postbiotic formula supports microbiome health
- Completely fragrance-free and EU allergen-free
- Fungal acne safe — confirmed by multiple ingredient checkers
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe with no restricted ingredients
- Made in Germany under ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 standards
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing — suitable for all skin types
- Vegan, cruelty-free, sustainably produced
- Budget-friendly price point for a clean-beauty biotic toner
- Works as both a toner and an essence-like treatment step
❌ Criticized
- 100 ml bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Ascorbyl Palmitate is a weaker vitamin C form — not ideal for targeted brightening
- Low review volume internationally compared to K-Beauty equivalents
- Limited availability outside of Europe and select online retailers
- Results are gradual — not a quick-fix product
- No niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides for barrier-focused users
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The most ingredient-similar dupe according to SkinSort analysis (44% INCI overlap, 73% attribute match). Also alcohol-free and suitable for sensitive skin, with a focus on probiotic-like extracts, though formulation philosophy differs and it includes some different actives.
The most community-liked alternative. Shares a clean, water-based formula targeting even tone and redness. Contains tranexamic acid and azelaic acid for more targeted brightening — a good choice for those wanting extra dark-spot action alongside balancing benefits.
The most frequently compared alternative in the SkinSort community. Shares a gentle, non-stripping approach to toning with goat milk-derived ingredients. Lower price point, though formula philosophy focuses more on pore refinement than microbiome repair.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Nø Cosmetics Liquid Balancer (Featured)
~€9.95COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
~$25Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum
~$110Geek & Gorgeous Liquid Hydration Toner
~€12📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Discard the product if it changes colour, consistency, or smell before the PAO date, as the natural ferment-based ingredients can degrade over time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Refrigeration is not required but can enhance the calming, soothing sensation on application. Keep out of reach of children.
100 ml plastic bottle with a small drop-dispenser opening. Eco-conscious recyclable packaging in line with the brand's sustainable production ethos. No pump; product is poured onto the hand or a cotton pad.
Yes — 100 ml bottle is exactly at the EU / international airline carry-on liquid limit. Ensure it is sealed in a clear zip-lock bag for air travel. Lightweight and compact packaging makes it easy to pack.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the Nø Cosmetics Liquid Balancer is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients typically restricted during pregnancy. All 26 ingredients are either proven safe or have no known risks. As with all skincare products, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new products to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes, the Liquid Balancer is confirmed fungal acne (malassezia) safe. The formula is completely oil-free and does not contain fatty acid esters, polysorbates, oils, or other lipids known to feed Malassezia yeast — the organism responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). This is confirmed by ingredient analysis on SkinSort, INCIDecoder, and other community-based platforms. The Lactobacillus Ferment in the formula may even actively help balance the skin microbiome against harmful microorganisms.
Yes, the Liquid Balancer is generally compatible with most actives. As a water-based, fragrance-free, non-acidic toner, it works well as a first step before applying vitamin C serums, niacinamide, peptides, and retinol. When layering with potent AHA or BHA exfoliants, apply the Liquid Balancer first after cleansing, allow it to absorb, and then apply the exfoliant separately — ideally in the evening and not at the same time as vitamin C to avoid pH conflicts. Patch testing new combinations is always recommended for sensitive skin.
The Liquid Balancer is best suited for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin types, though it performs well for all skin types. Its microbiome-rebalancing pre- and postbiotic formula helps regulate excess sebum for oily skin, while its multi-humectant complex provides hydration for drier skin. The SymCalmin complex (Avena Sativa) and Bifida Ferment Lysate make it particularly excellent for sensitive or reactive skin with redness and irritation concerns. It is 100% oil-free and non-comedogenic (rating 1/5), making it safe for pore-conscious and acne-prone users.
Many users notice an immediate calming and soothing sensation from the first application, with visible reduction in redness within the first 1–3 days thanks to SymCalmin and Bifida Ferment Lysate. Improved hydration and skin texture are typically visible within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. More significant results such as microbiome rebalancing, fewer breakouts, and a more even complexion generally become apparent after 4–8 weeks of regular twice-daily application. Consistency is key — this product works by gradually strengthening the skin's microbiome and barrier rather than providing instant surface-level results.
The Liquid Balancer is applied as the first step after cleansing — taking the role of a toner or essence at Step 2 in your routine. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin in the morning and evening before your serum, eye cream, moisturizer, and SPF (AM only). Its lightweight, water-based formula helps prep the skin and boosts absorption of products applied afterward. Because it is pH-neutral and non-stripping, it can also be used as a refreshing midday facial mist or pick-me-up between cleansing and other steps when skin needs rebalancing.
No, the Liquid Balancer will not clog pores. It has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 — considered very low risk. The formula is completely oil-free and contains no waxes, butters, or high-rated comedogenic ingredients. Both Glycerin and Propylene Glycol — the main moisturizing agents — score 0 on the comedogenic scale. The formula is also fungal acne safe, making it one of the safest toner options available for acne-prone and pore-conscious skin types.
The Liquid Balancer has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With twice-daily use applying 3–5 drops per application, the 100 ml bottle typically lasts approximately 2–3 months. To maximize shelf life, store it in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight, and ensure the cap is tightly closed after each use. If the product changes color, consistency, or develops an unusual smell before the 12-month PAO, discontinue use and replace it.
Verdict: The Nø Cosmetics Liquid Balancer is a standout clean-beauty toner from Germany that punches well above its price point. Its pre- and postbiotic formula — featuring clinically validated Bifida Ferment Lysate, SymCalmin for proven redness reduction, and a comprehensive microbiome-rebalancing complex — makes it genuinely effective for sensitive, reactive, oily, and acne-prone skin. It is completely free from fragrance, alcohol, parabens, and silicones, and ticks every modern skincare safety box: pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested under ISO standards. The only notable limitations are the modest 100 ml size for twice-daily use, relatively low international review volume, and a mild vitamin C form rather than a high-potency brightening complex. For anyone building a clean, microbiome-first skincare routine, the Liquid Balancer is one of the best German G-Beauty toners available at its accessible price point.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Bifida Ferment Lysate
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment
Skin Conditioning
|
Irritation
|