Metronidazole Gel 0.75%
Metronidazole Gel 0.75%
Product Description
Product overview
Taro Metronidazole Gel 0.75% is a prescription-strength topical antibiotic gel formulated to treat the inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea. Containing 7.5 mg of metronidazole per gram in a lightweight, clear gel base, it delivers targeted anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action with minimal systemic absorption — making it one of the most established topical rosacea therapies available in generic form.
Clinically Proven Anti-Inflammatory
Metronidazole 0.75% has decades of clinical use and FDA-cleared efficacy for reducing inflammatory papules and pustules associated with rosacea.
Texture & feel
SENSORYClinically Proven Anti-Inflammatory
Metronidazole 0.75% has decades of clinical use and FDA-cleared efficacy for reducing inflammatory papules and pustules associated with rosacea.
Minimal Systemic Absorption
Topical application yields serum concentrations approximately 100x lower than a single 250mg oral tablet, ensuring localized action with excellent tolerability.
Hydrating Gel Base
The carbomer gel matrix with propylene glycol provides light moisture and a smooth, non-greasy application experience suitable for rosacea-sensitive skin.
Free from Fragrances & Dyes
The minimalist 8-ingredient formula is designed to minimize irritation risk — no added fragrances, dyes, or unnecessary actives that can trigger rosacea flares.
Established Generic Formulation
Taro's generic version matches the innovator MetroGel formulation exactly, offering the same active ingredient at significantly reduced cost for patients.
Antimicrobial & Anti-Oxidant Action
Metronidazole disrupts bacterial DNA replication and exhibits potent free-radical scavenging activity, addressing oxidative stress implicated in rosacea pathology.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEMetronidazole crosses the placental barrier rapidly. Topical absorption is minimal (~100x less than oral), but no adequate human studies exist for topical use during pregnancy. Use only if clearly necessary and under physician supervision. Avoid in the first trimester when possible.
Oral metronidazole is excreted in breast milk. Topical metronidazole yields very low systemic levels, but caution is still advised. Discuss with your healthcare provider before use while breastfeeding.
The formula contains no fatty acids, fermented ingredients, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Metronidazole Gel 0.75% is considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No oils or high-comedogenic ingredients are present. Carbomer and propylene glycol have low comedogenic ratings. This gel is unlikely to clog pores.
Contains both methylparaben and propylparaben as preservatives. Individuals with known paraben hypersensitivity should avoid this formulation — it is listed as a contraindication in the prescribing information.
Metronidazole Gel has been reported to cause tearing of the eyes. Do not apply near the eye area. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Per the prescribing information, cosmetics may be applied after application of metronidazole gel — wait for the gel to fully absorb before layering other products.
Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole — use with care in patients with a history of blood dyscrasia. Inform your prescribing physician of any relevant medical history.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMetronidazole 0.75% (7.5 mg/g)Proven
The sole active ingredient and the cornerstone of this formulation. Metronidazole is a synthetic nitroimidazole antibiotic and antiprotozoal agent with well-established efficacy in the treatment of rosacea. Its exact mechanism of action in rosacea is not fully understood, but involves anti-inflammatory effects, free-radical scavenging, and possible action against Demodex mites associated with rosacea pathology.
- Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial DNA synthesis via disruption of the DNA double helix; also scavenges reactive oxygen species that contribute to rosacea inflammation.
- Absorption: Maximum serum concentration after 1g topical application is ~66 ng/mL — approximately 100x lower than a 250mg oral tablet. Serum levels are below detection limits in most patients.
- Clinical Evidence: Approved by the FDA for topical treatment of inflammatory papules and pustules of rosacea. Efficacy demonstrated in multiple randomized controlled trials over decades of use.
- Concentration: 0.75% (7.5 mg per gram of gel). The 0.75% strength is the first-line generic option; 1% formulations are also available.
Propylene Glycol Humectant / SolventProven
A multifunctional ingredient that acts as a humectant (draws moisture to the skin), solvent (helps dissolve and stabilize metronidazole), and penetration enhancer. It is one of the primary functional excipients in this gel, contributing to the smooth texture and skin-feel.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent. Helps keep the gel stable and the skin hydrated.
- Skin feel: Provides a lightweight, slightly emollient application experience without greasiness.
- Safety: Well-tolerated at typical cosmetic/pharmaceutical concentrations. Very rarely can cause contact sensitization in sensitive individuals.
Carbomer (Carbomer 940) Gelling AgentProven
A high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid used to create the gel's distinctive texture. Carbomer 940 thickens the formula, provides a smooth, spreadable consistency, and helps suspend and stabilize the active ingredient evenly throughout the product.
- Function: Thickener, gelling agent, and emulsion stabilizer. Creates the characteristic clear gel texture.
- Penetration: Due to its large molecular size, carbomer has minimal skin penetration and is considered inert — it stays on the surface and does not interfere with the active ingredient.
- Typical concentration: Most pharmaceutical gels use 0.5–2% carbomer.
Disodium EDTA Chelating AgentProven
Disodium EDTA (edetate disodium) is a chelating agent that binds to metal ions (calcium, magnesium, iron) that may be present from water, packaging, or air. By deactivating these ions, it prevents them from destabilizing the formulation, enhancing product shelf life and antimicrobial efficacy.
- Function: Chelating agent and preservative potentiator. Stabilizes the formula against metal ion contamination.
- Bonus benefit: Disodium EDTA is a mild penetration enhancer — it can help other ingredients, including metronidazole, absorb more effectively into the skin.
- Counteracts hard water: Binds to minerals in hard water, maintaining formula integrity.
Methylparaben PreservativeProven
A short-chain paraben ester used as a broad-spectrum preservative. Methylparaben is one of the most widely studied cosmetic and pharmaceutical preservatives, preventing microbial growth (bacteria, fungi, yeast) and extending product shelf life.
- Function: Antimicrobial preservative. Effective against a broad range of bacteria and fungi.
- Regulatory status: Approved for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals globally at concentrations up to 0.4% (individual) and 0.8% (combined parabens).
- Safety note: This product is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to parabens.
Propylparaben PreservativeProven
A longer-chain paraben ester that works synergistically with methylparaben to provide enhanced broad-spectrum preservation. The combination of methyl- and propylparaben at low concentrations is a well-established pharmaceutical preservation system.
- Function: Antimicrobial preservative, particularly effective against mold and yeast.
- Synergy: Used alongside methylparaben for comprehensive microbial protection at lower individual concentrations than would be required alone.
Sodium Hydroxide pH AdjusterProven
Sodium hydroxide (lye) is used in very small quantities to adjust the pH of the finished gel to the optimal range for both metronidazole stability and skin tolerance. The skin's natural pH is slightly acidic (4.5–5.5), and proper pH adjustment ensures the product is effective and comfortable to use.
- Function: pH buffer/adjuster to optimize formula stability and skin compatibility.
- Used in trace amounts: At the concentrations used in finished formulations, sodium hydroxide is safe and non-irritating — it neutralizes to form harmless salts.
Water (Purified Water) Base / SolventProven
Purified water is the primary vehicle for this gel formulation, serving as the solvent in which all other ingredients are dissolved or dispersed. The use of purified (not tap) water ensures freedom from contaminants and minerals that could destabilize the formulation.
- Function: Solvent, carrier, and base for the gel system.
- Quality standard: USP-grade purified water used to ensure pharmaceutical-grade purity.
8 ingredients — Metronidazole, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Carbomer 940, Disodium EDTA (Edetate Disodium), Propylene Glycol, Water (Purified Water / Aqua), Sodium Hydroxide
Active Ingredient: Metronidazole USP 0.75% (7.5 mg/g). All other ingredients are inactive excipients.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to cleansed, dry skin before moisturizer. Cosmetics may be layered on top after the gel has fully absorbed. Most commonly applied once or twice daily as prescribed.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse the Treatment Area
Wash the affected areas of the face gently with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Pat dry thoroughly before application — applying to damp skin can dilute the gel and affect absorption.
Apply a Thin Film
Squeeze a small, pea-sized amount onto a fingertip. Apply and gently rub in a thin film to the affected areas of the face as directed by your physician. A little goes a long way — resist the urge to over-apply.
Avoid the Eye Area
Do not apply near the eyes, inside the nose or mouth, or on any mucous membranes. If accidental contact with the eyes occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
Let Absorb, Then Layer
Allow the gel to fully absorb into the skin (approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute). You may then apply moisturizer, sunscreen, and cosmetics as normal. For AM use, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Use Consistently as Prescribed
Apply once or twice daily as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not skip applications — consistent daily use is key to achieving optimal results. Most patients see meaningful improvement after 3–9 weeks of regular use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have been diagnosed with papulopustular rosacea by a dermatologist
- You experience inflammatory bumps, papules, or pustules on the face
- You prefer a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient prescription treatment
- You have oily, combination, or rosacea-prone skin that reacts to heavy formulas
- You are looking for a cost-effective generic alternative to brand-name MetroGel
- You want a well-studied, FDA-cleared rosacea therapy
- Your skin is fungal acne-prone and you need a safe prescription option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to metronidazole or parabens
- Your primary rosacea symptom is diffuse redness (erythema only) — metronidazole is less effective for this subtype
- You are pregnant (especially first trimester) — discuss risk/benefit with your physician
- You are seeking an over-the-counter (OTC) solution — this product requires a prescription
- You have a history of blood dyscrasia — requires extra medical oversight
- You need treatment for telangiectasia (visible broken blood vessels) — metronidazole does not address this
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free gel formula absorbs quickly without adding shine, greasiness, or heaviness. Ideal for oily rosacea-prone skin.
The propylene glycol provides light hydration but may not be sufficient alone for very dry skin. Follow with a gentle, rosacea-friendly moisturizer.
The balanced, non-oily gel texture suits combination skin well — lightweight enough for the T-zone while still conditioning drier areas.
Specifically designed for rosacea-prone sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, dye-free minimal formula minimizes irritation risk. Patch test still recommended.
Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe. Note that this is indicated for rosacea papules/pustules, not acne vulgaris — confirm your diagnosis before use.
Results timeline
ONGOING MAINTENANCEImmediate Soothing Effect
Many patients report a cooling, calming sensation immediately upon application. Some notice a slight reduction in the intensity of burning or itching sensations associated with an active rosacea flare within the first few days.
~40% noticed early soothingEarly Reduction in Papules and Pustules
Initial reduction in the number and severity of inflammatory bumps begins. Redness may start to decrease in the treated areas. Some patients with moderate rosacea report significant improvement within the first week of consistent twice-daily use.
~55% see early improvementMeaningful Visible Improvement
The majority of patients experience a significant reduction (50–75%) in inflammatory lesion count. Erythema (redness) associated with the papulopustular component typically improves. Skin texture begins to normalize and look clearer.
~70% report significant improvementContinued Progressive Improvement
Clinical trial data shows continued improvement through 9–15 weeks of treatment. Inflammatory lesion counts continue to decline. Some patients require 2.5–3 months to see maximum benefit — patience and consistency are essential.
~85% achieve meaningful lesion reductionLong-Term Rosacea Management
Metronidazole gel is typically used as a long-term management therapy, not a cure. Continued use helps suppress flares and maintain clearer skin. Discontinuation often leads to gradual return of symptoms.
Best results with ongoing useRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Decades of clinical use with well-established safety and efficacy for rosacea
- Highly cost-effective generic — significantly cheaper than brand-name MetroGel
- Fragrance-free, dye-free minimal formula ideal for reactive, sensitive skin
- Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel that layers well under makeup and moisturizer
- Very low systemic absorption — essentially localized topical treatment
- FDA-approved with proven clinical trial data
- Broad insurance and Medicare coverage as a generic medication
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not available over the counter
- Results require significant patience (6–12+ weeks for full effect)
- Does not address background erythema (persistent redness) of rosacea
- Does not treat telangiectasia (visible blood vessels)
- Contains parabens — contraindicated for paraben-sensitive individuals
- Some users experience initial dryness, skin tightness, or mild stinging
- Clinical trials show azelaic acid (Finacea) may be superior for erythema reduction
- May cause eye tearing if product migrates near the eye area
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe innovator product from Galderma — identical active ingredient (metronidazole 0.75%) and virtually identical formulation. Taro's generic is bioequivalent and FDA-approved. The main difference is price and brand recognition, not clinical performance.
Contains a higher concentration of metronidazole (1%) in a cream rather than gel vehicle. The cream base may suit drier skin types better, while the gel is preferable for oily/combination skin. Both are FDA-approved for rosacea.
A different active ingredient (azelaic acid 15%) with complementary efficacy. Clinical studies show Finacea may be superior to metronidazole 0.75% for erythema reduction, while both are effective for papules and pustules. A good alternative if metronidazole is not tolerated or if redness is the primary concern.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Soolantra (Ivermectin 1% Cream)
Mirvaso Gel (Brimonidine 0.33%)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard the tube if the product changes color, consistency, or odor.
Store at 20°–25°C (68°–77°F) — USP Controlled Room Temperature. Excursions permitted between 15° and 30°C (59°–86°F). Do not freeze. Keep away from heat and direct sunlight.
Aluminum tube with screw cap. Available in 5g (physician sample), 30g, and 45g sizes. Aluminum construction protects the formula from light and air degradation.
The 30g tube is under the TSA 100ml liquid limit and is travel-friendly. Keep at controlled room temperature during travel — do not leave in a hot car or checked baggage in extreme heat.
Frequently asked questions
FAQPregnancy use requires caution. Metronidazole crosses the placental barrier rapidly. There are no adequate, well-controlled studies on the use of topical metronidazole in pregnant women. The good news is that topical absorption is extremely low — approximately 100x less than oral metronidazole — minimizing systemic exposure. However, because oral metronidazole has shown carcinogenic activity in some animal studies, topical metronidazole should only be used during pregnancy when clearly necessary and under direct physician supervision. Avoid use in the first trimester if possible. For breastfeeding, oral metronidazole is excreted in breast milk, though topical levels are minimal. Consult your healthcare provider for a personalized risk-benefit assessment.
Yes — Taro Metronidazole Gel 0.75% is considered fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, fermented ingredients, plant oils, polysorbates, or fatty acid esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast (the organism responsible for fungal acne / pityrosporum folliculitis). All 8 ingredients — metronidazole, carbomer, propylene glycol, disodium EDTA, methylparaben, propylparaben, water, and sodium hydroxide — are free from Malassezia-feeding components. If you have fungal acne-prone skin alongside rosacea, this is a compatible treatment option.
In principle, metronidazole gel can be combined with other topical actives, but caution is advised for rosacea-prone skin since many actives can trigger or worsen flares. Retinoids (tretinoin, retinol): Avoid combining at the same time of day — use one in the AM and one in the PM. Both can be sensitizing and using together may increase irritation. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): Generally compatible, though potent vitamin C serums can irritate rosacea skin. Use separately and introduce slowly. AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid): AHAs can exacerbate rosacea sensitivity — use with caution and only as directed by your dermatologist. BHAs (salicylic acid): May be irritating for rosacea skin. Always consult your prescribing physician before adding new actives to your routine when treating rosacea.
Taro Metronidazole Gel 0.75% is best suited for oily, combination, and sensitive/rosacea-prone skin types. The lightweight, non-greasy gel formulation is particularly ideal for oily or combination skin because it absorbs quickly without leaving residue. Dry skin types can use it too, but will likely need a good moisturizer applied after the gel to offset any potential drying effect. It is specifically formulated and indicated for rosacea-prone skin — this is its primary target population.
Results vary by individual, but clinical data and patient experience suggest the following general timeline: Some patients with active moderate-to-severe rosacea report visible improvement as early as days 4–7. However, the average time to meaningful, noticeable improvement is 3–6 weeks of consistent daily use. Maximum benefit is typically achieved after 9–15 weeks of treatment. A significant proportion of patients need to wait 2.5–3 months to fully assess the treatment's effectiveness. Consistency is critical — skipping applications significantly slows results. If you see no improvement after 8–10 weeks of twice-daily use, contact your dermatologist to discuss adjusting your treatment plan.
Metronidazole gel should be applied to clean, dry skin as the first treatment step — after cleansing (and optional toner), but before moisturizer, sunscreen, or cosmetics. The correct order is: Cleanser → (Optional Toner) → Metronidazole Gel → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM) / Cosmetics. Per the prescribing information, cosmetics may be applied after the gel has fully absorbed. Allow approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute for the gel to absorb before layering other products. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, as sun exposure is a known rosacea trigger.
No — Taro Metronidazole Gel 0.75% is non-comedogenic with a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula contains no oils, waxes, fatty acids, or heavy emollients known to clog pores. Carbomer (the gelling agent) has minimal skin penetration and is considered inert. Propylene glycol is a lightweight humectant with a comedogenic rating of 0. Metronidazole itself has no comedogenic properties. This gel is unlikely to cause or worsen breakouts and is considered safe for acne-prone and pore-sensitive skin types.
Taro Metronidazole Gel 0.75% has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store at controlled room temperature (20°–25°C / 68°–77°F) after opening. Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly capped when not in use to prevent contamination and drying. Discard the product if it changes color, develops an unusual odor, or changes texture before the 12-month mark. The 45g tube, when used twice daily for rosacea treatment, typically lasts 2–4 months depending on the number of treatment areas and amount applied per use.
Verdict: Taro Metronidazole Gel 0.75% is a highly reliable, cost-effective prescription treatment for papulopustular rosacea with decades of clinical evidence behind it. As a generic bioequivalent to MetroGel, it offers the same proven active ingredient at a fraction of the brand-name cost, making it the first-line choice for many dermatologists and patients seeking affordable rosacea management. The lightweight, fragrance-free gel formulation suits oily and combination skin types particularly well, and its non-comedogenic, fungal-acne-safe profile adds versatility for patients with multiple skin concerns. The primary limitations are the need for a prescription, the fact that results require genuine patience (6–12 weeks), and limited efficacy for the erythema component of rosacea. For patients whose rosacea is characterized primarily by inflammatory bumps, pustules, and papules, this product delivers meaningful, clinically validated results with a favorable safety and tolerability profile.
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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Metronidazole
|
|
|
| 4 |
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 7 |
Propylparaben
Perfuming, Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|