+M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel
+M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A next-generation daily foaming gel cleanser for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The +M formula is powered by La Roche-Posay's breakthrough Phylobioma technology — Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Pericarp Extract — which targets excess sebum and visibly reduces imperfections by rebalancing the skin microbiome. Paired with Zinc PCA and the brand's signature selenium-rich Thermal Spring Water, this soap-free, pH-balanced cleanser purifies deeply without stripping or over-drying.
Phylobioma Microbiome Technology
The new Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Pericarp Extract rebalances skin's microbiome ecosystem to target excess sebum and visibly reduce imperfections — La Roche-Posay's latest scientific breakthrough.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPhylobioma Microbiome Technology
The new Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Pericarp Extract rebalances skin's microbiome ecosystem to target excess sebum and visibly reduce imperfections — La Roche-Posay's latest scientific breakthrough.
Zinc PCA (Zinc Pidolate)
The zinc salt of L-pyrrolidone carboxylate regulates sebum production, exerts antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria, and reduces excess oil and shine throughout the day.
La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
Sourced in the town of La Roche-Posay, France, this unique spring water is rich in selenium (a natural antioxidant) and trace minerals. It soothes, softens, and anti-irritates skin during cleansing.
pH-Balanced at 5.5
Formulated to match skin's natural slightly-acidic pH, preserving the protective acid mantle. Unlike alkaline soaps that disrupt the barrier, this gel leaves the microbiome environment intact.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or high-risk chemical actives. A rinse-off formula with minimal absorption risk. Broadly considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Note: contains light fragrance — those with fragrance sensitivities may wish to confirm tolerance.
Free from long-chain fatty acids (C11–C24), problematic esters, polysorbates, and ferment-based ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe by multiple skin analysis databases including SkinSort and SkinSignal.
Dermatologist-tested under a non-comedogenicity protocol. Contains no pore-clogging oils, heavy emollients, or high-comedogenic-rated ingredients. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Extensively tested under dermatological control for sensitive skin tolerance. The thermal spring water and mild amphoteric surfactant (Coco-Betaine) system helps minimize irritation potential.
While tolerated by most users, those with extreme fragrance sensitivities or confirmed fragrance allergies should patch test before full use. The fragrance level is light and is a rinse-off formula.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (not SLS) is a milder surfactant considered safe in cosmetic rinse-off products. Those with very dry or compromised-barrier skin may find twice-daily use slightly drying; in that case, once daily is recommended.
Does not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-harmful sunscreen filters. Confirmed reef-safe formula.
La Roche-Posay is part of the L'Oréal Group, which sells in markets requiring animal testing by law (China). The brand is not certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny or PETA. Not vegan certified.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSZinc PCA (Zinc Pidolate) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of L-pyrrolidone carboxylate (L-PCA) — a natural component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor. It is the star active in the Effaclar range and the key differentiating ingredient that sets this cleanser apart from basic foaming washes. It works on multiple levels: regulating sebocyte activity to reduce sebum output, inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase (an enzyme linked to androgen-driven oil production), and exerting antimicrobial activity against Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis.
- Sebum Regulation: Inhibits 5α-reductase and androgen-mediated sebocyte activity, reducing excess oil production at the source.
- Antimicrobial: Zinc ions disrupt bacterial membrane integrity, providing mild anti-acne activity even in a rinse-off formula.
- Humectant: The PCA component is a natural humectant that supports skin's moisture balance during cleansing.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Zinc has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties, helping calm redness associated with blemishes.
Punica Granatum Pericarp Extract (Phylobioma) ProprietaryPromising
The newest hero ingredient in the +M formula — this pomegranate peel extract is the foundation of La Roche-Posay's Phylobioma microbiome science. The pericarp (the outer skin/rind of the pomegranate fruit) is exceptionally rich in polyphenols, ellagitannins (including punicalagin), and ellagic acid. These compounds have demonstrated strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. In the context of the Effaclar +M formula, Phylobioma targets the microbiome imbalances associated with oily and blemish-prone skin, helping to reduce excess sebum at the microbiome level.
- Polyphenol Content: Among the richest plant sources of ellagitannins and punicalagin, potent antioxidant compounds.
- Microbiome Modulation: Selectively inhibits sebum-triggering microbial species while supporting a balanced skin flora.
- Anti-Seborrhoeic: Studies indicate pomegranate extract reduces lipogenesis in sebocytes, directly addressing root causes of oily skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (IL-1β, TNF-α), helping calm blemish-related inflammation.
Coco-Betaine ~2–5%Proven
An amphoteric (zwitterionic) surfactant derived from coconut oil and betaine. Unlike primary anionic surfactants like SLES, Coco-Betaine carries both positive and negative charges and is notably gentler on the skin barrier. It serves as a foam booster and conditioner, working synergistically with SLES to improve foam quality while simultaneously reducing SLES's potential for irritation. It's the reason the Effaclar gel produces a rich, creamy lather despite being soap-free.
- Mildness Enhancer: Well-documented to reduce the cytotoxicity and irritation potential of anionic surfactants when combined in the same formula.
- Foam Quality: Produces denser, more stable foam compared to SLES alone, improving sensory experience and cleansing coverage.
- Antistatic & Conditioning: Leaves a slight conditioning effect on skin post-rinse, contributing to the non-tight feel.
Citric Acid pH adjusterProven
A naturally occurring AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) that serves dual roles in this formula. Primarily it acts as a pH adjuster to maintain the formula's optimal 5.5 pH, but at the concentration used here it also provides a very mild exfoliant effect — helping dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells on the surface. It additionally acts as a chelating agent, binding metal ions that could otherwise destabilize the formula or trigger oxidation.
- pH Regulation: Maintains formula at pH 5.5, matching skin's natural acid mantle and supporting microbiome health.
- Mild Exfoliation: As an AHA, gently promotes skin cell turnover, helping to prevent clogged pores and dullness.
- Chelating Agent: Binds metal ions, improving product stability and preventing rancidity over time.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant new to the +M formula vs. the classic version. Tocopherol (Vitamin E) neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure, pollution, and metabolic processes. In a cleanser, it primarily functions as a formula-stabilizing antioxidant, protecting the other active ingredients from oxidative degradation during shelf life, while also providing skin-conditioning benefits during contact time.
- Antioxidant Protection: Scavenges reactive oxygen species, protecting both the formula and the skin from oxidative stress.
- Formula Stability: Prevents oxidation of sensitive components, extending the product's effective shelf life.
- Skin Conditioning: Even in a rinse-off product, tocopherol contributes to a soft, non-stripped feel post-wash.
20 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, PEG-8, Coco-Betaine, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Punica Granatum Pericarp Extract, Zinc PCA, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Maltodextrin, Pentylene Glycol, Tocopherol, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum/Fragrance
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEStep 1 in both AM and PM routines · Use as first cleanser or double-cleanse after an oil/balm cleanser · Follow with Effaclar Duo+M for enhanced anti-blemish results
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face (not hot — hot water can strip the barrier and increase dryness). Wet hands as well.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense a small amount (about hazelnut-sized) of the clear gel onto wet palms. A little goes a long way with this high-foam formula.
Build a Lather & Massage
Rub hands together to build a rich foam, then apply to the face in gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone and any oily or blemish-prone areas. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water — make sure no residue remains, especially around the hairline and jawline. The formula rinses clean without a slippery after-feel.
Pat Dry Gently
Pat skin dry with a clean, soft towel — do not rub, as rubbing can irritate post-cleanse skin. Proceed immediately to the rest of your routine while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want a gentle cleanser that won't strip or over-dry
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe daily wash
- You struggle with fungal acne / Malassezia-related breakouts
- You prefer fragrance-minimal French pharmacy formulas
- You want to support your skin's microbiome balance
- You're a teenager or adult dealing with hormonal oiliness
- You're building an Effaclar system routine (Duo+M, Serozinc)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (may feel tight)
- You require a completely fragrance-free formula
- You need a medicated BHA/salicylic acid cleanser for severe acne
- You prefer sulfate-free cleansers (contains SLES)
- You need a cleanser to remove heavy waterproof makeup (double-cleanse first)
- You're looking for a certified cruelty-free or vegan product
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is the target skin type. Zinc PCA and Phylobioma directly address root causes of excess sebum. Leaves skin clean, matte, and balanced without the rebound oiliness that stripping cleansers can cause.
Excellent for the oily T-zone while remaining gentle enough for normal or slightly dry cheek areas. The pH-balanced formula prevents over-stripping drier zones.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, with zinc's antimicrobial activity targeting acne-causing bacteria. Works well as part of a complete acne management routine.
Dermatologically tested on sensitive skin with good tolerability. The thermal spring water soothes irritation. Caveat: contains light fragrance — extremely fragrance-reactive skin types should patch test first.
Designed for oily and combination skin — dry skin types may find it slightly drying, especially with twice-daily use. If you have dry skin, use once daily in the evening only and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Cleansing Effect
Skin feels visibly cleaner, lighter, and less greasy immediately after the first wash. Pores appear less clogged. The gel-to-foam action removes surface sebum, dirt, and impurities efficiently. No purging period expected as this is a non-active rinse-off cleanser.
98% noticed cleaner skin after first useReduced Oiliness Throughout the Day
With consistent use, the zinc PCA begins to modulate sebocyte activity. Skin stays less oily throughout the day, reducing midday shine. Some users report a more even skin texture as dead cell buildup is gently addressed by the citric acid component.
~72% reported less midday oilinessFewer Breakouts, Clearer Complexion
The antimicrobial and microbiome-rebalancing effects of Zinc PCA and Phylobioma become more apparent. Reduced bacterial load and sebum levels mean fewer active breakouts. Skin tone begins to appear more even and radiant.
~65% reported reduction in new breakoutsSustained Microbiome Balance
Long-term use of the Phylobioma technology supports a stable skin microbiome, making skin more resilient to oily flare-ups triggered by stress, humidity, or hormonal shifts. Skin consistency improves — fewer dramatic variations in oil production across the month.
~58% reported more stable skin month-to-monthRatings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Innovative Phylobioma microbiome technology (+M formula)
- Zinc PCA effectively controls excess oil and shine
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores or cause breakouts
- Confirmed fungal acne safe
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- pH-balanced at 5.5 — respects the acid mantle
- Soap-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free, oil-free
- Rich, satisfying lather without stripping
- Excellent value in the 400ml size
- Trusted French pharmacy brand with decades of dermatological research
- Works well as part of the full Effaclar system
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) — not truly fragrance-free
- Contains SLES — not ideal for sulfate-free skincare adherents
- Not suitable for dry skin as a twice-daily cleanser
- No salicylic acid or BHA for deeper exfoliation in pores
- Tube packaging can be difficult to extract last drops
- Not certified cruelty-free (L'Oréal Group)
- May require double-cleansing to remove waterproof makeup
- Phylobioma ingredient concentrations not disclosed
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Rated the top ingredient dupe by SkinSignal with a 93% ingredient match. Shares Sodium Laureth Sulfate, PEG-8, Coco-Betaine, and Zinc PCA. Mixa is also a L'Oréal brand, so the manufacturing standards are comparable. Slightly simpler formula without Phylobioma and Tocopherol, but great for a fraction of the price.
A popular K-beauty alternative targeting the same oily/acne-prone skin demographic. Lower pH (5.0–6.0), tea tree oil for antimicrobial activity, but a different surfactant system (Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Laureth-8 Sulfate). Fungal acne safe, fragrance-free version available. Less foam-heavy than the Effaclar gel. Good for those avoiding SLES.
A truly fragrance-free, soap-free foaming cleanser with a mild surfactant system. Shares several base excipients with the Effaclar gel. Lacks Zinc PCA and Phylobioma, but ideal for those who want a non-stripping, fragrance-free gentle cleanser from a pharmacy brand at a lower price point. Better suited to combination-to-dry skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol (12M) on the tube. Discard if color changes, scent alters significantly, or texture separates.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving in humid environments like steamy showers for extended periods.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap. Available in 200ml and 400ml sizes. The tube packaging is hygienic as it minimizes air contact with the formula compared to jar packaging.
Yes — the 200ml size is ideal for travel and meets most airline liquid regulations for carry-on (check TSA/IATA rules for your route). The 400ml is better for at-home use.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the +M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains none of the actives flagged as concerning during pregnancy: no retinoids, no salicylic acid (BHA), no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreen filters, and no benzoyl peroxide. It is a rinse-off formula, which further minimizes the already-low absorption risk of its ingredients. The only minor caveat is the light fragrance (Parfum) — while safe at this concentration in a rinse-off product, those with fragrance sensitivities during pregnancy may wish to patch-test first. Always confirm with your healthcare provider or dermatologist if you have specific concerns during pregnancy.
Yes — the +M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is confirmed fungal acne safe. It is free from the ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast: no long-chain fatty acids (C11–C24), no problematic fatty acid esters, no polysorbates, no ferment-based ingredients, and no high-risk oils. This has been verified by multiple skin analysis databases including SkinSort and SkinSignal, both of which flag it as "free from fungal acne supporting components." This makes it one of the better-suited cleansers for those dealing with Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne) alongside regular comedonal acne.
Yes — as a rinse-off cleanser, the +M Effaclar gel is fully compatible with all actives in your skincare routine including retinol, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic, mandelic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), niacinamide, peptides, and benzoyl peroxide. Because it rinses off the skin, the cleanser itself doesn't create interaction risks with leave-on actives applied afterward. In fact, using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser like this before applying actives helps maintain the ideal skin pH for those actives to perform optimally. If you're using the Effaclar Duo+M (which contains LHA), using this gel cleanser first is specifically recommended by La Roche-Posay as the first step in the Effaclar system.
The +M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — including sensitive skin within those categories. It was specifically formulated for skin that produces excess sebum and is prone to blemishes, blackheads, and enlarged pores. It is also suitable for teenagers dealing with hormonal oiliness. It is not ideal for dry or very dry skin types, as the cleansing system (which includes SLES) may feel slightly drying with regular twice-daily use. If you have dry skin with occasional breakouts, consider the La Roche-Posay Toleriane or Cicaplast lines, or use this gel once daily in the evening only.
Results vary by skin type and concern. For most users: skin feels cleaner and less greasy from the very first wash. Reduced mid-day oiliness typically becomes noticeable after 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Fewer breakouts and a clearer complexion are generally observed after 3–4 weeks as the zinc PCA and Phylobioma effects accumulate. Sustained microbiome balance and more consistent skin behavior are reported after 2–3 months of regular use. Keep in mind that a cleanser alone cannot fully resolve moderate-to-severe acne — for best results, pair it with the rest of the Effaclar system (Effaclar Duo+M, Serozinc) or other appropriate treatments.
The +M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is always Step 1 in your skincare routine — it is a cleanser. Use it morning and/or evening as the very first step, before any other products. In the morning, apply it to wet skin, lather, rinse, then follow with toner (optional), serum, moisturizer, and SPF. In the evening, if you wear makeup or sunscreen, consider using a micellar water or oil cleanser first (double-cleansing method), then follow with the Effaclar gel as your second cleanse. After cleansing, proceed with your treatment serums, eye cream, and moisturizer. La Roche-Posay specifically recommends following it with Effaclar Duo+M and finishing with Anthelios SPF in the morning.
No — the +M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. La Roche-Posay has carried out formal non-comedogenicity testing on acne-prone skin for this product. The formula contains no known pore-clogging oils, heavy emollients, waxes, or butters. All surfactants and ingredients are water-soluble and rinse off completely, leaving no residue behind. It is one of the most widely recommended cleansers for acne-prone skin by dermatologists precisely because of its zero pore-clogging risk.
The +M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months — look for the open jar icon printed on the tube with "12M." The 200ml tube, when used twice daily, typically lasts approximately 2–3 months depending on usage amount. The 400ml size provides roughly 4–5 months of regular use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Discard if the gel changes color, develops an unusual smell, or the texture separates — these are signs of formula degradation. The tube packaging helps preserve shelf life by reducing air exposure compared to jars.
Verdict: The La Roche-Posay +M Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel earns its place as one of the most trusted daily cleansers for oily and acne-prone skin — and the +M upgrade makes a strong product even stronger. The addition of Phylobioma technology (Punica Granatum Pericarp Extract) elevates the classic formula by targeting sebum at the microbiome level, not just on the surface. Paired with the proven Zinc PCA, pH 5.5 balance, and La Roche-Posay's soothing Thermal Spring Water, this is a scientifically credible, broadly compatible cleanser that checks nearly every box: pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and gentle enough for sensitive skin. The only two deductions from a perfect score: it contains fragrance (ruling it out for the most sensitive skin), and it includes SLES, which the sulfate-free crowd will want to note. For anyone with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin who wants a dermatologist-trusted French pharmacy cleanser backed by microbiome science — this is a near-ideal starting point for your routine.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-8
Humectant, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Hexylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Surfactant, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Emulsifying
|
|