Medicated Acne Pads - Sensitive
Medicated Acne Pads - Sensitive
Product Description
Product overview
Stridex Medicated Acne Pads – Sensitive are alcohol-free, pre-soaked cleansing pads from drugstore brand Stridex, formulated with 0.5% salicylic acid (BHA) plus aloe vera and witch hazel water to gently exfoliate, unclog pores, and treat mild-to-moderate acne without the burn or redness of traditional astringent toners. The lower active strength and added skin soothers make this version ideal for dry, easily irritated, or sensitive skin types looking for a no-rinse on-the-go acne treatment.
Gentle BHA Exfoliation
0.5% salicylic acid penetrates oil-clogged pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin and blackheads without the burn of stronger formulas.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle BHA Exfoliation
0.5% salicylic acid penetrates oil-clogged pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin and blackheads without the burn of stronger formulas.
Aloe + Witch Hazel Soothers
Decolorized aloe leaf juice and witch hazel water calm redness while the BHA works, making the formula tolerable for reactive skin.
100% Alcohol-Free
Unlike most drugstore acne toners that rely on 25–40% alcohol, Stridex uses water as the base — no stinging, no defensive oil rebound.
No-Rinse Convenience
Pre-soaked single-use pads mean no measuring, no cotton rounds. Swipe, toss, move on with your routine — perfect for travel and gym bags.
Cult-Favorite Affordability
Around $0.05–$0.10 per pad, this is one of the cheapest dermatologist-grade BHA treatments on the market and a long-time SkincareAddiction reddit favorite.
Multi-Zone Use
Safe for face, neck, chest, back and shoulders — ideal for body acne ("bacne") and breakout-prone hairlines that creams can't easily reach.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical salicylic acid at 0.5% is generally considered low-risk, but most OB-GYNs and dermatologists recommend pausing BHA products during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Contains no fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those battling pityrosporum folliculitis.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. The water-based, oil-free formula will not clog pores even on very oily, congestion-prone skin.
Do not layer with retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or AHAs in the same routine — risk of severe irritation, peeling and barrier damage.
Do not use if you have a known aspirin or salicylate allergy. Always patch-test on the inner arm for 24 hours before facial use.
BHAs increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory to prevent sunburn, dark spots and accelerated aging.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to dive deep into pores and dissolve the sebum-and-dead-skin plugs that cause blackheads, whiteheads and inflammatory acne. The gentler 0.5% concentration is FDA-approved for acne treatment and well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
- FDA OTC Monograph: Salicylic acid is officially classified as an acne treatment drug at concentrations of 0.5–2%.
- Clinical evidence: Multiple studies show 0.5–2% salicylic acid significantly reduces acne lesions, sometimes matching benzoyl peroxide in efficacy.
- Anti-inflammatory: Salicylic acid is structurally related to aspirin and calms redness and swelling around active pimples.
- No photosensitivity build-up: Unlike AHAs, BHA does not cumulatively increase sun sensitivity.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice HighProven
Decolorized aloe vera juice is one of the highest-listed inactive ingredients here, providing anti-inflammatory, wound-healing and hydrating benefits to offset any drying effect from the salicylic acid.
- Polysaccharides: Contains acemannan and other compounds shown in studies to accelerate skin repair and calm post-acne redness.
- Hydration: Acts as a humectant to attract water into the upper layers of skin without occluding pores.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water MidPromising
Distilled witch hazel water provides mild astringent and anti-inflammatory action via tannins and polyphenols, helping tighten the look of pores and reduce surface oil.
- Tannin content: Roughly 8–12% tannins in raw witch hazel give it pore-tightening and anti-redness effects.
- Stridex formulation: Uses witch hazel water rather than tincture, so it provides botanical benefits without added alcohol.
Menthol LowFunctional
Provides the signature cooling, tingly sensation that signals the pad is working. Menthol has mild antimicrobial activity but is primarily a sensorial ingredient.
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate & Ammonium Xylenesulfonate MidFunctional
Surfactants that act as cleansing agents and hydrotropes — they help solubilize the salicylic acid in water and lift away surface dirt, sweat and excess oil from the skin.
Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin LowFunctional
A modern preservative duo that prevents bacterial and fungal growth in the water-soaked pads. Ethylhexylglycerin also acts as a mild skin conditioner.
- Safety profile: Both are EU-approved at use levels and considered low-risk by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel.
Citric Acid & Sodium Borate TraceFunctional
pH adjusters that bring the formula to the slightly acidic 3–4 range required for salicylic acid to remain in its active, exfoliating form.
- pH science: Salicylic acid works best below pH 4. Above pH 4 it becomes neutralized and loses much of its exfoliating power.
Tetrasodium EDTA & Simethicone TraceFunctional
EDTA chelates trace metals to keep the formula stable and effective. Simethicone is an anti-foaming agent that prevents bubbling on the skin.
Fragrance (Parfum) LowCaution
A light cosmetic fragrance is added to mask the surfactant scent. Combined with menthol, this gives Stridex its iconic medicinal-cool smell.
14 ingredients
Active: Salicylic Acid 0.5% (w/w).
Inactive: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Decolorized), Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Ammonium Xylenesulfonate, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance (Parfum), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Menthol, Phenoxyethanol, Purified Water, Simethicone, Sodium Borate, Tetrasodium EDTA.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as a chemical exfoliating step right after cleansing on dry skin. Wait 5–10 minutes before applying water-based serums to allow the BHA to work at the correct pH.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash your face with a gentle, low-pH cleanser and pat dry. Stridex needs clean, oil-free skin to penetrate pores effectively.
Swipe One Pad
Take a single pad and gently wipe across the entire affected area in a thin, even layer. Avoid the eye area, lips and any broken skin.
Let It Dry (or Rinse After 30 Min)
Air-dry for at least 5 minutes before next step. For sensitive skin, rinse with cool water after 20–30 minutes — the BHA has done its job by then and you avoid prolonged surfactant contact.
Build Frequency Slowly
Start with once daily (or every other day). After 1–2 weeks of no irritation, increase to twice daily if needed. If peeling occurs, scale back.
Always Follow With Moisturizer + SPF
Apply a barrier-supporting moisturizer (look for ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin). In the morning, finish with SPF 30+ — non-negotiable when using BHAs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-moderate acne, blackheads, or clogged pores
- You have sensitive or dry skin that reacts to stronger 2% BHAs
- You want a no-rinse, on-the-go acne treatment
- You deal with body acne (chest, back, shoulders)
- You're looking for a budget-friendly dermatologist-recommended BHA
- You're new to chemical exfoliation and want a low-risk starting point
- You suffer from fungal acne and need a yeast-safe formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severe cystic or nodular acne (see a dermatologist)
- You're allergic to aspirin or salicylates
- You have rosacea, eczema, or active perioral dermatitis
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult OB-GYN first)
- You already use prescription retinoids or benzoyl peroxide
- You prefer fragrance-free or menthol-free formulations
- You want a stronger 2% BHA — try Stridex Maximum Strength instead
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively cuts through excess sebum and unclogs pores, but oily skin types may benefit more from the 2% Maximum Strength version for stronger exfoliation.
The 0.5% strength plus aloe makes it the most dry-skin-friendly Stridex variant, but always follow with a rich moisturizer to prevent flaking.
The sweet spot for this product. Mild enough for dry cheeks, effective enough for an oily T-zone and clogged nose pores.
Specifically formulated for sensitive skin with aloe and witch hazel, but contains menthol and fragrance — patch-test if you're highly reactive or have rosacea.
A holy-grail treatment for mild-to-moderate acne — non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and clinically proven active at an entry-level concentration.
Helpful for adult acne and clogged pores in mature skin. Use sparingly (every other day) and pair with hydrating, antioxidant-rich serums to support the barrier.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Cooling & Cleansing
Skin feels noticeably cooler and smoother right after use. Surface oil and dead skin cells are visibly lifted onto the pad.
~92% noticePossible Initial Purge
Some users experience a short purge as clogged pores clear out. Existing whiteheads come to the surface and resolve faster than usual.
~40% noticeSmoother Texture, Fewer Blackheads
Skin texture improves visibly — fewer bumps along the jawline, smaller-looking pores on the nose, and reduced blackhead density.
~75% noticeSignificant Drop in Active Acne
New pimples form less frequently. Existing breakouts resolve faster, and post-acne marks begin to fade thanks to gentle ongoing exfoliation.
~70% noticeClear, Even-Toned Maintenance
Long-term users report sustained acne control with fewer cystic flare-ups. Skin tone looks more even and luminous, especially on body areas like chest and back.
~65% noticeRatings by platform
17K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically effective at clearing mild-to-moderate acne
- Gentle 0.5% strength tolerated by sensitive skin
- Completely alcohol-free — no stinging burn
- Aloe and witch hazel calm post-acne redness
- Cult favorite on Reddit's SkincareAddiction
- Excellent for body acne (back, chest, shoulders)
- Extremely affordable — about $0.05–$0.10 per pad
- Pre-soaked, no-mess, travel-friendly format
- Fungal-acne safe (no Malassezia-feeding ingredients)
- HSA/FSA eligible as an FDA-approved OTC drug
Criticized
- Contains menthol — irritating for very reactive skin
- Added fragrance is a potential allergen
- Sulfate surfactants can be drying with daily use
- Can feel tingly or sting on broken skin
- Single-use disposable pads create waste
- 0.5% may be too mild for severe oily/cystic acne
- Not recommended during pregnancy
- Pads on top of jar can dry out if not stored properly
- Strong medicinal scent disliked by some users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESNearly identical 0.5% salicylic acid pad format at a similar price. Less aloe content, slightly more drying without witch hazel water.
2% salicylic acid in pad form — stronger active but typically contains alcohol, making it harsher on sensitive or dry skin.
Wash-off format with stronger 2% BHA, plus ceramides and niacinamide. Less convenient than pads but better for the moisture barrier.
Liquid 2% BHA you apply with cotton — stronger and fragrance-free, but you control the dose. No menthol cooling sensation.
2% salicylic acid pads with witch hazel. Stronger and slightly more fragranced than Stridex Sensitive. Not alcohol-free.
Cult-favorite leave-on liquid BHA with green tea. Much gentler base but 7× the price per ml. Better for sensitive skin who can budget for it.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStridex Sensitive
Stridex Maximum (2% BHA)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. As an OTC drug product it also carries a printed expiration date — do not use after that date.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep the lid tightly closed to prevent the pads from drying out. Do not use if seal is broken.
Resealable plastic jar with foil seal. Notched lid design for easy single-pad removal. Recyclable in most municipal programs.
Yes — pre-soaked pads are TSA carry-on friendly under the 100 ml liquid rule and require no spillable bottle.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical salicylic acid at 0.5% is generally considered low-risk because very little is absorbed systemically, but most OB-GYNs and dermatologists still advise pausing all BHA products during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Safer pregnancy alternatives include azelaic acid (15–20%) and glycolic acid in low concentrations. Always consult your healthcare provider before continuing or starting any acne treatment while pregnant or nursing.
Yes. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty alcohols (C11–C24), esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Salicylic acid itself is actually beneficial for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) because it helps unclog the follicles where the yeast thrives. This makes Stridex Sensitive one of the safer drugstore options for those battling fungal acne alongside regular acne.
Use caution. Stridex is itself a BHA, so do not stack it with another BHA, AHA, or benzoyl peroxide in the same routine — risk of severe irritation. With retinol or tretinoin, alternate nights (Stridex AM, retinoid PM) rather than layering. With vitamin C, apply Stridex first, wait 15–20 minutes, then layer L-ascorbic acid — but most sensitive skin types do better keeping vitamin C on alternate days. When combining actives, always reduce frequency and watch for redness, peeling, or stinging.
It is best for combination, dry, or sensitive skin with mild-to-moderate acne, blackheads, or clogged pores. The 0.5% salicylic acid plus aloe and witch hazel makes it the gentlest option in the Stridex line. Very oily skin or stubborn cystic acne may need the 2% Maximum Strength version. Skin with rosacea, eczema, or active perioral dermatitis should avoid it due to the menthol and fragrance content.
Most users notice smoother texture and fewer blackheads within 2–3 weeks of consistent use. A meaningful reduction in active breakouts typically appears at the 4–6 week mark, which corresponds to one full skin cell turnover cycle. Some experience a brief purge during the first 1–2 weeks as clogged pores clear out — this is temporary. Long-term acne control and faded post-acne marks become visible by month 2–3 with daily use.
Use Stridex right after cleansing on dry skin, before any toner, serum, or moisturizer. Wait at least 5 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for maximum efficacy) before applying water-based serums to allow the BHA to work at its proper acidic pH. Always finish your routine with a hydrating moisturizer. In the morning, end with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ — non-negotiable when using BHAs because salicylic acid can increase short-term photosensitivity.
No. Stridex Sensitive has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 — extremely unlikely to clog pores. The water-based, oil-free formula contains no comedogenic ingredients, and salicylic acid is itself a pore-clearing active. Many users specifically rely on it to dissolve existing blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and clogged pores around the nose, chin, and forehead. It is also widely used on the chest, back, and shoulders to prevent body acne ("bacne").
Stridex Sensitive has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. As an FDA-regulated OTC drug, the jar also carries a printed expiration date — do not use the product past that date even if pads still appear moist. To maximize shelf life, keep the lid tightly closed at all times and store away from direct heat or sunlight. If pads dry out before then, the salicylic acid may have crystallized and the product loses efficacy — discard and replace.
Verdict: Stridex Medicated Acne Pads – Sensitive remain one of the most cost-effective, dermatologist-respected acne treatments at the drugstore. The 0.5% salicylic acid + aloe + witch hazel combination delivers reliable results for mild-to-moderate acne, blackheads, and body breakouts on combination, dry, and most sensitive skin types — all without alcohol's burn or stinging. The fragrance, menthol and sulfate surfactants are the formula's weak points and can irritate the most reactive skin or rosacea-prone users. For everyone else, it's a budget hero that punches well above its price and earns its cult-favorite reputation on Reddit's SkincareAddiction.An excellent first BHA, a forever staple for body acne, and a smart pick for sensitive skin needing a gentler entry into chemical exfoliation.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
Hydrotrope, Surfactant, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|