Max. Strength Acne Medication
Max. Strength Acne Medication
Product Description
Product overview
up&up Maximum Strength Acne Medication is a no-frills, dermatologist-tested 10% benzoyl peroxide gel that targets acne-causing bacteria at the source. With just 7 ingredients and a fragrance-free, minimalist formula, it's a budget-friendly alternative to Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 that works fast to reduce pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads — all for a fraction of the price of name-brand competitors.
Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria
10% benzoyl peroxide releases oxygen into pores to destroy Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for inflammatory acne — with no known resistance.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne-Causing Bacteria
10% benzoyl peroxide releases oxygen into pores to destroyCutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for inflammatory acne — with no known resistance.
Fast-Acting Spot Treatment
Visible reduction in pimple size and redness within 24 hours when used as a targeted spot treatment on active breakouts.
Minimalist 7-Ingredient Formula
Stripped-down, no-nonsense formulation: no fragrance, no dyes, no parabens, no sulfates, no essential oils — just the active and its stabilizers.
Drugstore-Price Dupe
Target's house-brand answer to Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 and Neutrogena Rapid Clear — typically 3–4x cheaper with an almost identical formula.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or ferments that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for closed-comedone and fungal acne sufferers.
All 7 ingredients rate 0 on the comedogenic scale — no pore-clogging oils, butters, or silicones.
Benzoyl peroxide is generally considered acceptable during pregnancy in limited spot-treatment use, but 10% is the highest OTC concentration — consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist first.
Benzoyl peroxide will permanently bleach towels, pillowcases, clothing, and dyed hair on contact. Use white linens and wash hands thoroughly after application.
BPO oxidizes retinoids and L-ascorbic acid, deactivating them. Either use on alternating nights/AM-PM, or choose one at a time.
Always follow up with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day. BPO makes skin more vulnerable to UV-induced irritation and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
10% is the strongest OTC concentration and can trigger redness, burning, peeling, or flare-ups in reactive skin types. Start with 2.5% or 5% if unsure.
Unlike topical antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide has no documented bacterial resistance after decades of use — making it a long-term reliable acne treatment.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 10%Proven
The active ingredient and star of the show. A maximum-strength, FDA-approved OTC acne medication that releases oxygen into pores, killing the anaerobicC. acnes bacteria responsible for inflammatory breakouts. Also has mild keratolytic (exfoliating) properties that help clear clogged pores.
- Mechanism: Generates free-radical oxygen inside follicles, destroyingC. acnes bacteria within hours of application.
- Clinical evidence: The American Academy of Dermatology lists benzoyl peroxide as a first-line therapy for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris.
- No resistance: Research confirms BPO has shown no bacterial resistance development, unlike topical antibiotics.
- Metabolism: Absorbed through skin and converted into benzoic acid (a common food preservative), then excreted in urine.
- Concentration note: Studies show 2.5% and 5% work nearly as well as 10% with far less irritation — consider lower strength for full-face application.
Carbomer ~0.5–1%Proven
A synthetic high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid used to create the gel's signature clear, non-sticky texture. Acts as a thickener and stabilizer with no skin activity of its own.
- Function: Thickens water-based formulas into stable, clear gels.
- Safety: Considered inert; minimal skin penetration due to large molecular size.
- Common use: Found in most drugstore and clinical gel-based acne products and serums.
Disodium EDTA <0.2%Proven
A chelating agent that binds metal ions (like iron and copper) to prevent them from destabilizing the formula. Helps preserve the benzoyl peroxide's potency and extends shelf life.
- Function: Stabilizes the formula and supports preservative efficacy.
- Concentration: Typically used at well under 0.2% — classed as a cosmetic stabilizer, not an active.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose ~1–2%Proven
A plant-derived cellulose polymer (also known as HPMC or hypromellose). Forms a thin, flexible, breathable film on the skin that helps the benzoyl peroxide stay in contact with the spot for longer — improving efficacy.
- Film-forming: Creates a flexible occlusive layer that maintains BPO contact with the skin surface.
- Origin: Semi-synthetic, derived from plant cellulose.
- Also used in: Eye drops, oral medications, and ophthalmic formulations — well-tolerated by sensitive tissue.
Laureth-4 ~1%Proven
A non-ionic emulsifier and solubilizer that helps keep the benzoyl peroxide evenly dispersed in the water-based gel base. Also aids penetration of the active into pores.
- Function: Emulsifier — keeps oily and water-based ingredients evenly mixed.
- Note: A polyethylene glycol derivative; not a polysorbate, so it remains fungal-acne safe.
Sodium Hydroxide pH adjusterProven
Commonly known as lye. Used in trace amounts to neutralize the acidic carbomer and bring the formula to a skin-compatible pH. Fully reacted in the finished product — not present in free form.
- Function: pH adjuster; balances the formula to a skin-friendly range.
- Final concentration: Negligible in finished product; neutralized during manufacture.
Water (Aqua) ~85%+Proven
The solvent and base of the gel. Water makes up the majority of the formula, creating the lightweight, non-greasy texture and allowing the other ingredients to disperse evenly.
- Function: Carrier/solvent — vehicles the benzoyl peroxide to the skin.
- Grade: Purified/USP grade as required for OTC drug products.
7 ingredients — one of the shortest ingredient lists in the entire acne treatment category.
Active: Benzoyl Peroxide 10%
Inactive: Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Laureth-4, Sodium Hydroxide, Water
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to dry, clean skin before serums and moisturizer so it can penetrate. Let it absorb 1–2 minutes before layering. Use at night if possible — daytime use requires diligent SPF.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser and pat completely dry. BPO applied to damp skin increases irritation risk.
Start Slow
Begin with one application daily (ideally at night). If well tolerated after 1 week, gradually increase to 2–3 times daily as needed.
Apply a Thin Layer
Dab a pea-sized amount directly onto pimples, whiteheads, or affected areas. Avoid eyes, lips, and nostrils. Less is more — thick layers don't work better.
Wait & Layer
Allow 1–2 minutes to absorb before applying moisturizer. A ceramide-rich or panthenol moisturizer helps offset dryness.
Wash Hands & Protect Fabrics
Rinse hands thoroughly after application — residual product will bleach towels, pillowcases, and clothing on contact.
Always Use SPF
BPO increases photosensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, even if using the product only at night.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have inflammatory, red, pustular acne or whiteheads
- You want a fast-acting spot treatment on a budget
- You have oily or combination skin that tolerates actives well
- You struggle with fungal acne / closed comedones (this is fungal-acne safe)
- You prefer minimalist, fragrance-free formulas
- You want a Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 dupe for a fraction of the price
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive, reactive, or rosacea-prone skin (start with 2.5%)
- You have very dry or barrier-damaged skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding without clearance from your doctor
- You're already using retinoids, vitamin C, or AHAs (risk of deactivation or over-irritation)
- Your acne is hormonal, cystic, or nodular (see a dermatologist for Rx treatment)
- You need broader anti-acne action (try salicylic acid or adapalene)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Gel texture, matte finish, and sebum-regulating action make this a top pick for oily, acne-prone skin.
Use only as a spot treatment and always layer with a rich ceramide moisturizer. 10% may be too drying for full-face use on dry skin.
Apply to oily zones and breakout areas only (T-zone, chin, jawline). Avoid dry patches on cheeks.
10% is the highest OTC strength and can trigger irritation, redness, and peeling. Patch test first or opt for a 2.5% alternative.
Targets the root cause of inflammatory acne. Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe.
Likely to trigger flare-ups, burning, and flushing. Consider azelaic acid or metronidazole instead.
Results timeline
6–12 WEEKSVisible Reduction in Pimple Size & Redness
Existing inflammatory pimples begin to shrink and lose redness as BPO oxygenates the follicle and kills bacteria overnight.
~70% notice overnight spot improvementPurge Phase & Initial Dryness
Mild dryness, tightness, or peeling is common. Some users report a brief "purge" as existing clogs come to the surface.
~50% experience temporary drynessNoticeably Clearer Skin
Inflammatory breakouts reduced; fewer new pimples forming; whiteheads and pustules resolving faster.
~80% see clear improvementFull Results & Maintenance
Peak improvement achieved. Continue use to prevent recurrence. Post-acne marks (PIE/PIH) begin to fade as new breakouts stop forming.
~85% report significant long-term clearanceRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable (~$3.69–$5 for 1 oz)
- Clinically proven maximum-strength 10% BPO
- Fast results — often visible within 24 hours
- Fragrance-free and minimalist 7-ingredient formula
- Fungal-acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Identical formula to Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10
- No bacterial resistance like antibiotics
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Criticized
- Can cause significant dryness and peeling
- Too harsh for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- Permanently bleaches towels, sheets, and dyed fabrics
- Increases sun sensitivity — SPF mandatory
- Only 1 oz size available
- Can deactivate retinoids and vitamin C if layered
- Plain, unfancy packaging (no pump, small tube)
- Only sold at Target (in-store or online)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Identical active ingredient and nearly identical inactive ingredients (Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, HPMC, Laureth-4, Sodium Hydroxide, Water). Functionally the same product at a similar price point.
The original product up&up is designed to copy. Almost identical formula with the addition of benzyl alcohol as a preservative. 2–3x the price for essentially the same effect.
Walmart's house-brand equivalent. Same active, nearly identical inactive list, same price range. Choice usually comes down to which store you shop at.
A lower-strength (4%) wash-off format that's gentler for whole-body or full-face use. Better for those who can't tolerate leave-on 10%, but less potent for spot treatment.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Benzoyl peroxide is prone to oxidation and loses potency over time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat (below 40°C / 104°F). Keep cap tightly closed.
Squeeze tube with narrow nozzle — hygienic, easy to dispense pea-sized amounts, and minimizes product oxidation.
Yes — 1 oz (28.3g) is well under TSA's 3.4 oz / 100ml carry-on liquid limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide is considered one of the safer topical acne treatments for pregnancy and breastfeeding when used on limited areas — only about 5% is absorbed through the skin, and it's metabolized into benzoic acid (a common food additive). However, 10% is the highest OTC concentration, so most dermatologists recommend a lower strength (2.5%) or limited spot-treatment use during pregnancy. Always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before starting any new acne product while pregnant or nursing. When breastfeeding, avoid applying it anywhere on the chest or breast area to prevent accidental infant ingestion.
Yes — this product is fungal-acne safe. None of the 7 ingredients feed Malassezia yeast: there are no fatty acids (longer than C10), esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients. Benzoyl peroxide itself actually has antifungal properties and is sometimes used to help manage fungal acne flare-ups. The minimalist formula makes it one of the cleaner choices for sufferers of closed comedones, malassezia folliculitis, and pityrosporum folliculitis.
Use with caution. Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize and deactivate retinol and L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) if layered directly — the two cancel each other out. The safest approach is to alternate: use BPO in the morning and retinol at night, or use them on separate days. Adapalene (Differin) is the exception — it's chemically stable with BPO and they work well together. AHAs and BHAs can be layered with BPO but significantly increase dryness and irritation, so introduce one at a time and always moisturize well. When in doubt, separate actives by 12 hours.
Oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types get the best results — especially those with inflammatory pimples, whiteheads, and fungal-acne-safe concerns. The lightweight gel absorbs quickly, leaves a matte finish, and targets breakouts without clogging pores. Dry, very sensitive, and rosacea-prone skin should approach with caution or choose a lower 2.5% or 5% concentration, as 10% can cause significant dryness, peeling, and flushing.
Individual pimples often show visible reduction in size and redness within 24 hours — benzoyl peroxide works fast on inflammatory acne. For meaningful improvement in overall breakout frequency and severity, expect 2–4 weeks of consistent nightly use. Peak results typically appear at 6–12 weeks. Continued maintenance use is important — stopping BPO usually leads to acne returning within a few weeks, since it suppresses (not permanently eliminates) bacterial populations in the follicle.
Apply to clean, dry skin after cleansing (and toning, if you use one) and before serums and moisturizer. Dab a pea-sized amount directly onto spots or affected areas, wait 1–2 minutes for it to absorb, then follow with a gentle moisturizer to buffer dryness. Best used at night so it doesn't interact with daytime sunscreen or makeup. If used in the AM, always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ — BPO significantly increases photosensitivity.
No — this product is non-comedogenic. All 7 ingredients rate 0 on the comedogenic scale. There are no oils, butters, silicones, or heavy emollients that could trap sebum or bacteria in pores. In fact, benzoyl peroxide actively helps unclog pores through mild keratolytic action, making it ideal for blackheads, whiteheads, and closed comedones.
12 months after opening (12M PAO). Benzoyl peroxide is sensitive to heat, light, and air — it oxidizes and loses potency over time. Always store with the cap tightly closed, below 40°C/104°F, and away from direct sunlight. If the gel changes color (turning yellowish or brown), thickens unusually, or develops an off smell, discard it. For best results, use within 6–9 months of opening while potency is highest.
Verdict: up&up Maximum Strength Acne Medication is a near-perfect example of what house-brand drugstore skincare can be: a clinically proven, FDA-regulated active at the highest OTC concentration, in a minimalist 7-ingredient formula, at a quarter of the cost of the name-brand original it's designed to copy. For anyone with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin battling inflammatory breakouts, whiteheads, or fungal acne, this is one of the best value-for-money spot treatments on the market. The 10% concentration is powerful — some sensitive users will find it too drying — but used thoughtfully as a targeted spot treatment with proper moisturizer and daily SPF, it delivers results within days. Not suitable for rosacea, very dry skin, or pregnancy without medical clearance, and a hard pass if you layer it with retinol or vitamin C. Otherwise, a no-brainer budget staple.
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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 0 |
Laureth-4
Emulsifying, Masking
|
|