Low pH Cicamide Facial Cleanser
Low pH Cicamide Facial Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
An ultra-gentle, low-pH gel cleanser enriched with Ceramide NP, Niacinamide, and Centella Asiatica Extract. Formulated without SLS or parabens, it removes excess oil, sunscreen, and daily grime without stripping the skin's natural acid mantle — leaving your face clean, balanced, and barrier-intact. A cult-favourite across Southeast Asia for its remarkable results at an affordable price point.
Low-pH Balanced Formula
Formulated at pH 5.0–5.5, matching the skin's natural acid mantle. This prevents barrier disruption and keeps your skin microbiome healthy — essential for acne prevention and hydration retention.
Texture & feel
SENSORYLow-pH Balanced Formula
Formulated at pH 5.0–5.5, matching the skin's natural acid mantle. This prevents barrier disruption and keeps your skin microbiome healthy — essential for acne prevention and hydration retention.
Ceramide NP + Cholesterol Barrier Support
Ceramide NP is a skin-identical lipid comprising ~50% of the intercellular matrix. Combined with Cholesterol, it actively replenishes moisture-locking barrier lipids even in a rinse-off product.
Niacinamide for Brightening & Pore Care
Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) reduces sebum production, minimises the appearance of enlarged pores, and inhibits melanin transfer to brighten uneven skin tone over time.
Centella Asiatica (Cica) Soothing
Centella Asiatica Extract — famously known as "Cica" — delivers proven anti-inflammatory and wound-healing benefits, making this ideal for post-breakout or reactive skin.
Ultra-Mild SLS-Free Surfactant System
Uses Cocamidopropyl Betaine + Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate — one of the gentlest cleansing duos available. Produces a soft, low-friction lather that cleans thoroughly without stripping.
Exceptional Value for 150 ml
Upgraded to 150 ml with a minimalist formula of just 21 ingredients. A pea-sized amount lathers significantly, making one bottle last 2–3 months for most users — unbeatable for the price.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, high-dose chemical sunscreen actives, or other ingredients of concern during pregnancy. All surfactants and actives are considered safe for prenatal use.
The Low pH version is free from polysorbates, ferments, and problematic fatty acid esters that feed Malassezia. No Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (found in the regular version) here. Confirmed safe by multiple community trackers.
The Low pH reformulation eliminates Methylparaben and Sodium Laureth Sulfate found in the original Cicamide Cleanser. Uses safer, milder alternatives at every step of the formula.
No heavy occlusive oils or waxes. Primary emollients are Hydrogenated Lecithin and Cholesterol — both skin-identical lipids with essentially zero comedogenic potential. Safe for acne-prone skin.
A botanical floral oil contributing a light natural scent. While not a synthetic fragrance, those with severe floral oil sensitivity or known Magnolia family allergies should do a patch test first.
No dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, or drying alcohols. Suitable for users who prefer clean-formulation products or are avoiding silicones for skin-feel or environmental reasons.
Low-pH cleansers are the ideal first step before retinol or acid treatments. Maintaining skin's natural pH pre-treatment maximises the efficacy of your actives in subsequent steps.
Officially tested and certified as dermatologically safe. Indonesian FDA registered (BPOM). Suitable for daily use morning and night, even for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5–8%Proven
The backbone humectant of this formula. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) during and after cleansing. Listed as the 2nd ingredient, confirming meaningful concentration.
- Study (Fluhr et al., 2008): Glycerin was shown to improve skin hydration and barrier function more effectively than many synthetic humectants at equivalent concentrations.
- Mechanism: Acts as an aquaporin activator, enhancing the skin's own water-transport channels.
- Benefit in a cleanser: Counteracts the drying effect of surfactants, leaving skin soft rather than tight post-wash.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine Secondary SurfactantProven
A coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant used as the primary gentle cleanser. Unlike harsh anionic surfactants (SLS), it carries both positive and negative charges at skin pH, drastically reducing irritation potential. Biodegradable and widely recommended for sensitive skin formulations.
- Study (Burnett et al., 2012): High-purity Cocamidopropyl Betaine did not induce allergic reactions — earlier concerns were attributed to impurities in manufacturing, not the ingredient itself.
- Foaming: Generates a soft, creamy micro-foam that cleans thoroughly without disrupting the lipid barrier.
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate Co-SurfactantProven
One of the mildest anionic surfactants available in modern cosmetic chemistry. Unlike SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), DLSS has a larger molecular structure that limits skin penetration, drastically reducing irritation risk. It is used in many baby-safe formulations for this reason.
- CIR Expert Panel: Rated as safe in rinse-off formulations with an excellent tolerability profile, even for compromised skin barriers.
- Key difference from SLES: Lower irritation potential and less likely to cause barrier disruption when used long-term.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–3%Proven
A multifunctional powerhouse. In a cleanser, it provides brief but cumulative contact with skin cells during washing. Niacinamide reduces sebum secretion, inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes (brightening), strengthens the barrier, and has documented anti-inflammatory effects for acne and rosacea.
- Draelos et al. (2006): 2% niacinamide reduced sebum production significantly over 4 weeks.
- Hakozaki et al. (2002): 5% niacinamide decreased hyperpigmentation spots by 35–68% over 8 weeks; lower % still provide visible brightening over time.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD in cells, fuelling DNA repair, collagen production, and barrier lipid synthesis.
Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica) Active ExtractProven
One of the most well-researched botanical actives in Korean and Southeast Asian skincare. Contains key bioactives: asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid — collectively known for anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and collagen-stimulating properties.
- Bylka et al. (2013): Centella Asiatica extract significantly accelerated wound healing and reduced inflammatory cytokine activity in clinical studies.
- Anti-acne: Reduces redness and calms post-inflammatory responses, ideal for breakout-prone skin during cleansing.
Ceramide NP Trace–ActiveProven
A skin-identical ceramide matching the natural lipids found in the stratum corneum's intercellular matrix. Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the "mortar" between skin cells. Even in a rinse-off cleanser, Ceramide NP helps reinforce barrier integrity and reduces transepidermal water loss.
- Skin-identical: NP (non-hydroxy fatty acid/sphingosine) is the most abundant ceramide type in human skin, making it highly biocompatible.
- Research: Regular use of ceramide-containing products has been shown to restore compromised barriers in atopic dermatitis patients (Draelos, 2008).
Michelia Alba Flower Oil BotanicalPromising
An essential oil extracted from the white champaca flower (related to Magnolia). Provides the product's distinctive gentle floral note and contributes antioxidant and mild antimicrobial properties. Listed after Phenoxyethanol, suggesting low concentration for scenting rather than therapeutic effect.
- Antioxidant activity: Contains linalool and methyl eugenol with documented free radical scavenging properties.
Hydrogenated Lecithin + Cholesterol Barrier LipidsProven
A phospholipid-cholesterol duo that closely mimics natural skin barrier lipids. Hydrogenated Lecithin acts as an emollient and delivery agent — its phospholipid structure allows it to fuse with cell membranes, enhancing active ingredient penetration. Cholesterol is an essential barrier component at ~25% of intercellular lipid composition.
- Research: Cholesterol + ceramide + free fatty acid combinations in the physiological ratio (1:1:1) are proven to restore barrier function in compromised skin (Elias et al.).
21 ingredients — Aqua, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Chloride, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Phenoxyethanol, Laureth-2, Michelia Alba Flower Oil, Chlorphenesin, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Dianthus Chinensis Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Propylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Cholesterol, Ceramide NP
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways use as the first step — or second step if double-cleansing after an oil-based cleanser. Because it maintains skin's natural low pH, it primes your skin optimally for acids, vitamin C serums, retinol, or any active that follows.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Wet your face thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid very hot water as it can accelerate barrier disruption and amplify the drying effect of any cleanser.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze a small, pea-to-dime-sized amount onto your fingertips. Less is more — this formula lathers well even with minimal product. Over-using leads to unnecessary surfactant contact time.
Massage Gently for 30–60 Seconds
Work the cleanser into a light lather on damp skin using circular, upward motions. Focus on the T-zone and areas with sunscreen or makeup residue. Avoid aggressive scrubbing — the surfactant system does the work.
Rinse Thoroughly
Remove completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains — especially around the hairline and jawline. Leftover surfactant on skin can cause irritation or milia over time.
Pat Dry & Proceed
Gently pat dry with a clean towel — never rub. Immediately follow with your toner or hydrating step while skin is still slightly damp to lock in the most moisture.
Use Twice Daily (AM & PM)
Safe and gentle enough for twice-daily use. In the morning, it removes overnight sebum and products. At night, use as a second cleanse after an oil cleanser or micellar water if you wore sunscreen or makeup.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or barrier-compromised skin
- You struggle with fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You use exfoliating actives (AHA, BHA, retinol) and need a pH-safe first step
- Your current cleanser leaves skin feeling tight or stripped
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want a verified safe option
- You want a budget-friendly but ingredient-intelligent cleanser
- You have combination to oily skin prone to breakouts
- You wear Korean sunscreens daily and need thorough but gentle removal
Consider alternatives if:
- You wear heavy, full-coverage makeup — double-cleanse with an oil cleanser first
- You have known sensitivity to floral essential oils or Magnolia family plants
- You prefer a rich, creamy cleanser texture over a gel
- You need a cleanser with active exfoliating agents (AHA/BHA)
- You want a fully fragrance-free formula — this contains Michelia Alba Flower Oil
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLow-pH formula effectively dissolves excess sebum and prevents pore congestion without overcleansing. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production with regular use. Zero greasiness after rinsing.
Glycerin and barrier lipids (Ceramide NP, Cholesterol) help counteract cleanser-related dryness. Skin feels clean but not stripped. Follow with a rich moisturizer for best results.
Cleanses the T-zone effectively while preserving moisture in drier cheek areas. The balanced pH prevents the oily rebound response triggered by harsh cleansers. Ideal for daily use.
Dermatologically tested and validated gentle. The DLSS + Cocamidopropyl Betaine surfactant system is one of the mildest available. Centella Asiatica calms reactive skin. Patch test for the floral oil.
Non-comedogenic (1/5), fungal acne safe, and SLS-free. Low pH prevents over-alkalisation that worsens breakouts. Niacinamide controls sebum; Cica reduces post-inflammatory redness. Top pick for acne-prone users.
Low-pH cleansing preserves natural acids that support collagen enzymes. Ceramide NP helps address the natural decline in barrier ceramides with age. Gentle enough for daily use without accelerating skin-barrier aging.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Clean & Soft Feeling
Skin feels clean without that dry, tight sensation associated with conventional foaming cleansers. Micro-lather rinses completely clean with no film. Skin appears calm, slightly hydrated post-wash.
95% noticed immediate difference vs. SLS cleansersReduced Dryness & Post-Wash Tightness
Users with previously stripping cleansers report significantly less rebound oiliness. Skin feels more balanced throughout the day. Existing micro-irritation from harsh previous cleansers begins to calm. Active users notice Cica's anti-redness effect.
82% reported reduced post-wash drynessBrighter Skin Tone & Reduced Tiny Bumps
Cumulative niacinamide contact begins to even skin tone. Users with closed comedones and small texture bumps (particularly on forehead) report visible reduction. Skin barrier strengthening becomes noticeable with fewer flare-ups.
71% noticed brighter, more even skin tonePore Refinement & Consistent Oil Control
With consistent twice-daily use, niacinamide's sebum-regulating effects become measurable. Enlarged pores appear visibly minimised. Skin holds hydration longer between applications. Post-breakout marks fade more quickly compared to alkaline cleanser users.
65% reported improved pore appearanceRatings by platform
82K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
STRONGPraised
- Leaves skin clean but never stripped or tight
- Low pH preserves skin microbiome and barrier integrity
- Fungal acne safe — confirmed by community ingredient trackers
- SLS-free and paraben-free formula (upgrade from regular Cicamide version)
- Niacinamide + Ceramide NP in one affordable cleanser
- Centella Asiatica soothes breakout-prone and reactive skin
- Excellent value — 150 ml lasts 2–3 months
- Dermatologically tested and BPOM registered
- Non-comedogenic; safe for acne-prone skin
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Contains Michelia Alba Flower Oil — not 100% fragrance-free
- Not strong enough to remove waterproof makeup alone
- Limited availability in Western markets (primarily Southeast Asia)
- Active concentrations (niacinamide, ceramide) are likely low for a rinse-off product
- Clear gel tube packaging offers no airless protection
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares the same low-pH positioning with Ceramide NP and a gentle surfactant system. Adds blueberry extract for additional antioxidant support. Comparable price point and similar target audience. Slightly more botanical-focused formula without niacinamide. Excellent alternative if The Originote is unavailable locally.
The gold standard low-pH cleanser that inspired the category. Contains Betaine Salicylate (BHA) for mild pore-clearing effect. Fully fragrance-free. Missing ceramides and niacinamide of The Originote but adds tea tree oil. Better for oily/acne-prone skin needing light exfoliation. Costs 2–3x more for similar size.
Cica-focused low-pH cleanser in solid bar form. Ultra-gentle with Centella Asiatica as the hero ingredient. Fragrance-free. Different format may suit eco-conscious users. Less hydrating than The Originote due to bar format. Lacks Niacinamide and Ceramide NP combination but excels in irritation reduction.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on packaging with "12M" indicated. Discard if colour, consistency, or scent changes noticeably.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms where temperature fluctuates significantly. Room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F) is optimal.
Flexible squeeze tube, 150 ml. Simple twist-cap closure. No airless pump, but gel formula is stable and low-contamination risk given regular use. Tube is easy to control for dosing.
The original 70 ml size is below the 100 ml airline carry-on limit — ideal for travel. The new 150 ml version should be packed in checked luggage or decanted into a travel bottle for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — The Originote Low pH Cicamide Facial Cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, no salicylic acid (only Centella Asiatica extract), no hydroquinone, no chemical UV filters, and no high-risk preservatives. The primary actives — Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, Glycerin, and Centella Asiatica — are all widely used in products recommended for prenatal skincare. The only ingredient worth noting is Michelia Alba Flower Oil (a natural floral oil); if you have extreme sensitivity to essential oils, consult your dermatologist, but this is present at a very low concentration and is not flagged as a concern during pregnancy. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes — the Low pH Cicamide version is fungal acne safe. This is an important distinction from the regular Cicamide Facial Cleanser, which contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride — a fatty acid ester that can feed Malassezia. The Low pH version replaces this with safer alternatives and uses Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate instead of SLES. The formula contains no polysorbates, no ferments, no problematic fatty acid esters, and no oils with high oleic/linoleic ratios that are associated with Malassezia growth. Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Glycerin, and Centella Asiatica are all confirmed fungal acne safe. This cleanser is confirmed FA-safe by SkinSort and community trackers including HolySkinBibles FA checker.
Yes — and in fact, this cleanser is an ideal companion for active ingredient users. A low-pH cleanser (pH 5.0–5.5) is recommended before applying acids (AHA/BHA) and vitamin C serums because it keeps skin's surface pH in the optimal range for these actives to work effectively. High-pH (alkaline) cleansers can temporarily raise skin pH, requiring the skin to buffer back down before acidic actives reach their working pH. Using this cleanser before your vitamin C or exfoliating acids means your actives start working faster. For retinol users: this cleanser is gentle enough not to compromise the barrier before retinol application. Just be sure to wait a few minutes after cleansing before applying pH-dependent actives.
This cleanser is genuinely suitable for all skin types but is especially excellent for: (1) Oily and combination skin — the low-pH, non-stripping formula prevents rebound oiliness common with harsh foaming cleansers. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum over time. (2) Sensitive and reactive skin — the gentle DLSS surfactant system, Cica, and dermatologist-tested formula make it one of the safest daily cleansers for compromised skin. (3) Acne-prone and fungal acne skin — confirmed FA-safe, non-comedogenic (1/5), and free from pore-clogging ingredients. (4) Barrier-damaged skin — Ceramide NP and Cholesterol actively support barrier repair during cleansing. Dry skin users can benefit too, though they may want to layer a richer moisturiser after.
Results follow a predictable timeline with consistent twice-daily use: From the first wash, skin feels noticeably cleaner but softer — lacking the tight, stripped sensation of harsher cleansers. After 1–2 weeks, skin balance improves with less oily rebound and reduced irritation. After 3–4 weeks, cumulative niacinamide contact (even in a rinse-off product) begins to even skin tone, and users with closed comedones and texture bumps on the forehead report visible reduction. After 2–3 months, pore refinement and sustained oil regulation become measurable. Note: as a cleanser, it is not a treatment product — pair it with dedicated actives (serums, toners) for more dramatic results.
This cleanser is always the first step (or second step if double-cleansing). Morning routine: Low pH Cicamide Cleanser → Toner/Essence → Serum → Eye Cream → Moisturiser → Sunscreen. Evening routine (light makeup/sunscreen only): Low pH Cicamide Cleanser → Toner → Treatment Serum → Moisturiser. Evening routine (heavy makeup/waterproof products): Oil Cleanser or Micellar Water → Low pH Cicamide Cleanser → Toner → Treatment → Moisturiser. Because it maintains low skin pH after cleansing, it is the ideal first step before any acid serum, retinol, or vitamin C. Never use it after leave-on actives or as a mid-routine step.
No — this cleanser has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It contains no heavy occlusive oils, no waxes, no high-comedogenic rating ingredients. The emollients used — Hydrogenated Lecithin and Cholesterol — are skin-identical lipids that do not clog pores. Glycerin is rated 0/5 comedogenic. Niacinamide and Ceramide NP are both well-established non-comedogenic ingredients. As a rinse-off product, the risk of comedone formation is inherently lower than leave-on products. This formula is specifically recommended for acne-prone users who need barrier-supporting cleansing without risk of triggering new breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, indicated by the open jar symbol with "12M" on the packaging. For reference, a pea-to-dime-sized amount is all that is needed per wash. The new 150 ml size typically lasts 2–3 months for a single user washing twice daily, making it well within the PAO window. To maximise shelf life: store at room temperature (15–25°C), away from direct sunlight and steam. Close the cap tightly after each use. If the gel changes colour, develops an unusual odour, or becomes watery/separated, discontinue use and replace — though this is uncommon with proper storage.
Verdict: The Originote Low pH Cicamide Facial Cleanser punches well above its price class. Its low-pH, SLS-free, paraben-free formula solves the core problem most budget cleansers create — barrier disruption — while delivering meaningful actives: Niacinamide for brightening and sebum control, Ceramide NP and Cholesterol for barrier reinforcement, and Centella Asiatica for anti-inflammatory soothing. The 150 ml upgrade makes it even better value, easily lasting 2–3 months with twice-daily use. Its only notable limitation is the Michelia Alba Flower Oil for those wanting a fully fragrance-free option, and limited Western market availability. For everyone else — especially oily, combination, acne-prone, sensitive, or fungal-acne-affected skin types — this is one of the most intelligently formulated budget cleansers currently available in Southeast Asia and deserves wider global recognition.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Cleansing, Foaming, Hydrotrope, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|