Milky Piggy CER-100 Collagen Ceramide Coating Protein Treatment
Milky Piggy CER-100 Collagen Ceramide Coating Protein Treatment
Product Description
Product overview
The Elizavecca Milky Piggy CER-100 Collagen Ceramide Coating Protein Treatment is a viral K-Beauty hair repair mask formulated with pig-derived collagen, Ceramide NP, hydrolyzed silk, keratin, and a powerhouse of protein extracts to deeply nourish, strengthen, and restore shine to damaged, over-processed, and frizzy hair — all for a fraction of luxury salon treatment prices.
Pig Collagen Coating Technology
Pig-derived collagen (Gelatin/Hydrolyzed Collagen) forms a protective coating layer over each strand, sealing in moisture and smoothing the cuticle for immediate softness and shine.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPig Collagen Coating Technology
Pig-derived collagen (Gelatin/Hydrolyzed Collagen) forms a protective coating layer over each strand, sealing in moisture and smoothing the cuticle for immediate softness and shine.
Ceramide NP Barrier Repair
Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3) mimics the natural lipid structure of hair, rebuilding the internal lipid layers that are stripped by heat styling, bleaching, and chemical processing.
Triple Protein Strengthening
Hydrolyzed Wheat, Corn, and Soy Proteins (10 ppm each) penetrate the hair shaft to reinforce weakened bonds, reduce breakage, and restore elasticity to over-processed hair.
6-Herb Oriental Botanical Complex
A unique blend of Cornus Officinalis, Rehmannia Glutinosa, Dioscorea Japonica, Alisma Orientale, Paeonia Suffruticosa, and Poria Cocos — inspired by Traditional Korean herbal medicine — nourishes the scalp and improves hair resilience.
Vegetable & Antioxidant Extract Blend
Broccoli, celery, cabbage, rice, carrot, tomato, and turnip extracts deliver vitamins and antioxidants directly to the hair fiber, helping protect against oxidative stress from styling and environmental damage.
Silk & Keratin Smoothing
Hydrolyzed Silk and Hydrolyzed Keratin coat and fill gaps in the hair cuticle, creating a natural-looking smooth texture, reducing frizz, and adding a reflective, salon-worthy shine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Parfum (fragrance) and Amodimethicone, which are generally considered low-risk topical ingredients when used as a rinse-off hair treatment. No retinoids, hydroquinone, or salicylic acid are present. However, as a precaution, always consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains Gelatin and Hydrolyzed Collagen, which are protein/amino acid-based ingredients that could theoretically feed Malassezia yeast if residue contacts facial skin. Use carefully if you are prone to fungal acne and avoid letting the rinse-off treatment linger on the face/chest/back. As a rinse-off product, the risk is lower than leave-in formulas.
Preserved with Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, and Sodium Dehydroacetate — no parabens detected in the formula.
Free from SLS, SLES, and other sulfate-based cleansing agents. Safe for color-treated and chemically processed hair.
Key conditioning agents (Behentrimonium Chloride, Dimethicone) are low on the comedogenic scale. Rinse-off format further minimizes any risk of pore-clogging if applied correctly only to hair.
Contains Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, and Hydrolyzed Corn Protein. Those with known grain or soy protein sensitivities should perform a patch test before full use.
The formula contains pig-derived collagen (Gelatin, Hydrolyzed Collagen). Not suitable for vegans or those with religious dietary restrictions around pork-derived ingredients.
High in multiple protein sources (keratin, silk, wheat, soy, corn, collagen). Overuse may cause protein overload, especially for low-porosity hair — leading to stiffness or brittleness. Use weekly or bi-weekly, not daily.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBehentrimonium Chloride Top 3Proven
A quaternary ammonium conditioning agent that adsorbs onto negatively charged hair fibers, neutralizing static charge and providing slip, detangling, and softness. One of the most effective rinse-off conditioners available, particularly beneficial for chemically damaged hair.
- Function: Cationic conditioner, antistatic, emulsifier
- Mechanism: Ionically bonds to damaged cuticle sites, reducing friction and improving combability
- Evidence: Widely studied in hair cosmetic science; standard in premium conditioners and masks
Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3) 10 mgProven
Ceramide NP is a skin-identical lipid that makes up approximately 50% of the intercellular cement in both skin and hair cuticle layers. It restores the lipid barrier stripped away by bleaching, heat, and chemical processing, improving moisture retention, strength, and elasticity.
- Source: Synthetic or plant-derived (structurally identical to natural ceramides)
- Research: Studies confirm ceramides reduce hair breakage and improve surface smoothness after chemical damage
- Concentration: 10 mg per 100 ml formula
Hydrolyzed Collagen 100 ppmProven
Chemically fragmented collagen protein (derived from bovine or porcine sources) that acts as a film-forming humectant on hair strands. Its small molecular weight allows partial penetration into the cortex, improving moisture binding, flexibility, and tensile strength while reducing brittleness.
- Source: Pig-derived (characteristic of this Milky Piggy formulation)
- Effect: Fills gaps in damaged cuticle, improves hair's water-binding capacity
- Concentration: 100 ppm disclosed on packaging
Hydrolyzed Silk Mid-rangeProven
Silk proteins broken down to small peptides and amino acids that adsorb onto hair fibers, filling surface irregularities for a smooth, shiny, luxurious feel. Known as a humectant that helps hair retain moisture while providing a lightweight protective coating.
- Key Amino Acids: Serine, glycine, alanine — naturally found in hair keratin
- Benefit: Adds shine, reduces frizz, improves combability, protective film-former
- Source: Bombyx mori (silkworm) cocoon protein
Panthenol (Provitamin B5) Mid-rangeProven
Panthenol penetrates both the cortex and the cuticle of the hair shaft, binding moisture into the fiber and converting to pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) once absorbed. It plumps the hair shaft, improves elasticity, reduces breakage, and adds natural-looking body and shine.
- Research: Multiple clinical studies confirm panthenol significantly improves hair tensile strength and moisture retention
- Dual Action: Works as both a humectant and a cuticle-smoothing agent
Hydrolyzed Keratin Mid-rangeProven
Keratin is the primary structural protein of hair. Hydrolyzed keratin uses peptide fragments small enough to partially penetrate the hair cuticle, replacing lost keratin from chemical and heat damage. It improves strength, reduces porosity, and increases elasticity.
- Mechanism: Fills protein gaps in damaged cuticle through ionic and hydrogen bonding
- Benefit: Reduces breakage, smoothes cuticle surface, improves manageability
6-Herb Oriental Complex Mid-rangePromising
A Traditional Korean Medicine-inspired blend: Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Alisma Orientale Tuber Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, and Poria Cocos Sclerotium Extract. These six herbs are used in traditional medicine to tonify the kidneys and liver, which in Korean herbal tradition are associated with hair health.
- Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, scalp-soothing
- Traditional Use: Widely used in Korean herbal formulations for scalp health and hair vitality
Amodimethicone + Dimethicone Top 6Proven
Two silicone-based conditioning polymers. Amodimethicone is an amino-modified silicone that selectively deposits on damaged areas of the hair fiber, providing targeted repair and frizz control. Dimethicone creates a smooth, non-greasy coating over the entire strand that reflects light for shine.
- Amodimethicone: Preferentially bonds to damaged/positively-charged sites — smarter conditioning than regular silicones
- Dimethicone: Thermal protection, frizz control, cuticle sealing
Vegetable Botanical Extracts Lower rangePromising
A multi-extract complex including Daucus Carota (Carrot — β-carotene, Vitamin A precursor), Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli — glucosinolates, sulforaphane), Apium Graveolens (Celery — vitamins C & K), Brassica Oleracea Capitata (Cabbage), Oryza Sativa (Rice — inositol, ferulic acid), Brassica Rapa (Turnip), Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato — lycopene), and Illicium Verum (Star Anise — antioxidants).
- Function: Antioxidant, vitamin delivery, UV-protective properties
- Rice Extract: Ferulic acid protects against photooxidative damage to hair color
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) Mid-rangeProven
A stable form of Vitamin E that provides antioxidant protection to hair fibers, preventing lipid peroxidation caused by UV radiation and heat styling. It also contributes to softness and shine of the hair shaft.
- Function: Antioxidant, free radical scavenger, emollient
- Benefit: Protects hair color longevity, reduces oxidative damage from bleaching
46 ingredients
Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Amodimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Citric Acid, Isopropyl Alcohol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Dimethicone, Trideceth-12, Panthenol, Parfum, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caramel, Butylene Glycol, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Alisma Orientale Tuber Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Poria Cocos Sclerotium Extract, Ceramide NP, Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Silk, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Gelatin, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Phenoxyethanol, Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica Extract, Apium Graveolens Extract, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Brassica Oleracea Capitata Juice, Oryza Sativa Extract, Brassica Rapa Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit, Illicium Verum Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after shampooing on towel-dried damp hair. For deeper conditioning, cover with a shower cap during the 5–20 minute wait time. Use 1–2 times per week — avoid daily use to prevent protein overload.
How to use
HOW TO USEShampoo Your Hair
Wash hair thoroughly with your preferred shampoo. For best results, consider using the Elizavecca CER-100 shampoo from the same line to prime hair for maximum treatment absorption.
Towel Dry Until Damp
Gently squeeze out excess water with a towel. Hair should be damp but not dripping — excess water dilutes the formula and reduces effectiveness. Do not blow-dry before applying.
Apply the Treatment
Scoop an appropriate amount (a dime to quarter size for medium hair, more for long/thick hair) and distribute evenly from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the scalp to prevent oiliness. Gently comb through for even coverage.
Leave On 5–20 Minutes
Leave on for a minimum of 5 minutes. For deeper treatment, cover hair with a shower cap or wrap in a warm towel to allow heat to open the cuticle and enhance penetration. Leave up to 20 minutes for very damaged hair.
Rinse Thoroughly with Warm Water
Rinse completely with lukewarm or cool water. Cool water helps seal the hair cuticle for extra shine. Ensure all product is rinsed — residue can cause buildup or scalp heaviness.
Style as Normal
Gently blot dry and style as usual. Results are immediately noticeable — hair will feel softer, look shinier, and be noticeably easier to detangle and manage. Use 1–2 times per week.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your hair is damaged from bleaching, dyeing, or color treatments
- You use heat styling tools regularly (flat iron, curling wand, blow dryer)
- Your hair feels dry, brittle, or prone to breakage
- You experience frizz and lack of manageability
- You want salon-quality results at an affordable price
- You have curly or wavy hair that needs moisture and definition
- You're looking for an Olaplex alternative that's budget-friendly
- Your hair is coarse, thick, or high-porosity
Consider alternatives if:
- You are vegan or avoid pork-derived ingredients (contains pig collagen)
- You have low-porosity hair prone to protein overload (hair may feel stiff)
- You have soy, wheat, or corn protein sensitivities
- You prefer a fully fragrance-free hair product
- You need a bond-repair treatment (CER-100 coats; Olaplex No. 3 rebuilds bonds)
- You have very fine, limp hair that needs volume over moisture
Hair type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is the primary target of CER-100. Ceramide, collagen, keratin, and silk proteins directly address the porosity and structural damage caused by bleach and chemical processing.
Glycerin, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, and the multi-protein complex bind moisture into the fiber and smooth the cuticle. Frizz is visibly reduced after the first use, with silky soft results.
Beloved in the curly hair community. Reduces frizz while adding definition and bounce. Many curly hair users report improved curl pattern after consistent use.
Sulfate-free and safe for color-treated hair. Ceramides and Tocopheryl Acetate help protect and extend color vibrancy. Gentle enough to use between salon visits.
Rich cream texture effectively penetrates coarse, thick strands that require more intensive conditioning. Leave on for the full 20 minutes with a heat cap for best results.
Multiple protein sources may cause protein overload for fine or low-porosity hair, leading to stiffness or dryness. Use sparingly (once every 2–3 weeks) and follow with a moisture-focused conditioner.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3 (ONGOING USE)Immediate Softness & Shine
Hair feels noticeably softer to the touch right after rinsing. Frizz is visibly reduced and the surface takes on a healthy, reflective shine. Detangling becomes significantly easier.
~90% noticedReduced Breakage & Improved Manageability
Multi-protein complex begins rebuilding structural integrity. Hair snapping during brushing decreases. Curly hair types notice improved curl definition and reduced frizz even on second-day hair.
~75% noticedRestored Elasticity & Cuticle Repair
Ceramide NP and keratin deposits accumulate in the hair shaft, visibly improving the overall condition of chemically processed or heat-damaged hair. Hair stretches before breaking (improved elasticity).
~65% noticedSustained Health & Long-Term Repair
Consistent weekly use maintains the collagen-ceramide coating on the hair shaft. Color-treated hair retains vibrancy longer. Users report needing fewer professional deep-conditioning treatments when using CER-100 weekly.
~55% noticedRatings by platform
41K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — delivers salon-quality results at $7–$10
- Noticeable softness and shine after just the first use
- Viral TikTok & Amazon bestseller with 37,000+ five-star Amazon ratings
- Unique pig collagen + ceramide + 6-herb formula not found in competitors
- Works well on curly, wavy, damaged, and color-treated hair types
- Sulfate-free and paraben-free — safe for treated hair
- Only requires 5 minutes — convenient for busy routines
- Genuine K-Beauty innovation from Elizavecca, a 20+ year brand
Criticized
- Not vegan — contains pig-derived collagen and gelatin
- 100 ml tube is small and runs out quickly for long/thick hair
- Contains Parfum — not ideal for fragrance-sensitive users
- Multiple protein sources can cause protein overload for fine or low-porosity hair
- Not a true bond-repair treatment — does not rebuild disulfide bonds like Olaplex
- Silicone-containing formula may require periodic clarifying shampoo use
- Protein concentration (100 ppm) is relatively modest
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains hydrolyzed wheat protein and a multi-protein complex for strengthening, but lacks ceramide NP, pig collagen, and the unique Oriental herbal complex. Good quick-fix for light damage, but not as comprehensive.
Shares the keratin and silicone-based conditioning approach. Lacks ceramide and collagen components. Widely available at drugstores. Works well for frizz control but less effective for serious protein-deficient damage.
Another K-Beauty option with humectant-heavy formula and botanical extracts. Does not contain ceramide or pig collagen, but provides excellent moisture retention and is fully vegan-friendly — better choice for vegan users.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEElizavecca CER-100
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the PAO symbol (open jar icon) on the packaging. Discard if texture, color, or scent changes noticeably before the 12-month mark.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in a steamy shower permanently — repeated humidity exposure can reduce shelf life and compromise the formula. A bathroom cabinet is ideal.
Squeeze tube (100 ml). No pump or airless mechanism — squeeze from the bottom to maximize product usage. The iconic pink tube with the Milky Piggy character is recognizable worldwide.
Yes — 100 ml / 3.38 fl oz is the exact TSA carry-on liquid limit. Fits in a standard quart-sized toiletry bag for air travel without checked luggage concerns.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Ceramide Coating Protein Treatment does not contain any of the primary ingredients considered unsafe during pregnancy (no retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreen filters). It contains Parfum (fragrance) and silicone-based conditioners, which are generally considered low-risk in rinse-off formulas. However, because it contains pig-derived collagen (Gelatin, Hydrolyzed Collagen) and the formula includes Phenoxyethanol at standard cosmetic concentrations, we always recommend consulting your OB/GYN or midwife before introducing any new hair product during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The rinse-off nature of this product significantly limits systemic absorption.
The CER-100 is a rinse-off hair treatment, which significantly reduces the risk compared to leave-on products. However, it does contain Gelatin and Hydrolyzed Collagen — amino acid-rich ingredients that could theoretically feed Malassezia yeast if the rinse water containing these ingredients contacts acne-prone areas like the face, chest, or upper back. If you are prone to fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), rinse the product completely from your hair before letting water run over your face, neck, and back. Lean forward when rinsing. Do not use this as a scalp treatment or leave-in product.
Yes, and many users combine CER-100 with bond-repair treatments for complementary benefits. Olaplex No. 3 and K18 work at a molecular level to rebuild disulfide bonds within the hair cortex, while CER-100 works at the cuticle and surface level with protein coating and ceramide barrier repair. A popular approach: use Olaplex or K18 first (per their instructions), then follow with CER-100 as a weekly maintenance mask once bond repair has been performed. Avoid using multiple high-protein treatments back-to-back in the same wash session, as this can lead to protein overload — especially for fine or low-porosity hair types.
CER-100 delivers the most dramatic results on damaged, bleached, chemically processed, dry, and frizzy hair. It is particularly loved by curly and wavy hair communities for defining curl pattern while reducing frizz. Color-treated hair benefits from its sulfate-free formula and antioxidant extracts that help preserve color vibrancy. It works well for coarse and thick hair types. Fine or low-porosity hair users should use it sparingly (once every 2–3 weeks maximum) to avoid protein overload, which can cause temporary stiffness or brittleness.
Most users notice immediate results after the very first use — hair feels softer, looks shinier, and is easier to detangle right after rinsing. This is primarily due to the conditioning agents (Behentrimonium Chloride, Amodimethicone, Dimethicone) and Panthenol. Deeper structural improvements from the ceramide and protein complex accumulate over 2–4 weeks of consistent once or twice-weekly use. For significantly damaged or bleached hair, noticeable reduction in breakage and improved elasticity typically becomes evident within 2–4 weeks of regular use.
The CER-100 Protein Treatment is applied after shampooing, on towel-dried (damp, not dripping wet) hair. Apply from mid-lengths to ends, leave on for 5–20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. It replaces or supplements your regular conditioner — you don't need to apply a separate conditioner after using CER-100 as it provides significant conditioning on its own. Use it 1–2 times per week as a treatment step, not as a daily conditioner. If you use a separate bonding treatment (Olaplex, K18), apply that first per its instructions, then follow with CER-100 in the same wash session.
The CER-100 has a low comedogenic rating (approximately 1/5) based on its key ingredients. Behentrimonium Chloride and Dimethicone are low on the comedogenic scale. As a rinse-off product intended for hair, the risk of pore clogging is minimal when used correctly. To minimize any risk of body acne or facial breakouts, ensure you rinse the product completely from your hair and avoid letting the rinse water linger on your face, chest, or back. People with acne-prone scalps should apply only to mid-lengths and ends — not directly to the scalp.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Elizavecca CER-100 is 12 months (12M). The 100 ml tube should last approximately 1–2 months with once or twice-weekly use for medium-length hair, and around 3–4 weeks for long or thick hair requiring larger amounts per application. Store the tube in a cool, dry location away from steam and direct sunlight to preserve the formula and maximize shelf life. The product is preserved with Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, and Ethylhexylglycerin — a broad-spectrum preservation system designed to maintain stability for the full 12-month period after opening.
Verdict: The Elizavecca Milky Piggy CER-100 Collagen Ceramide Coating Protein Treatment is one of the most impressive value-for-money hair treatments available anywhere. At around $7–10 for 100 ml, it delivers a genuinely complex, science-backed formula combining Ceramide NP, pig-derived Hydrolyzed Collagen (100 ppm), six different protein extracts (silk, keratin, wheat, corn, soy, and oat), a unique Traditional Korean herbal botanical complex, and intelligent silicone-based conditioners — a combination you would expect to find in a $35–$75 salon treatment. The viral TikTok and Amazon fame is entirely deserved. Immediate visible improvement in softness, shine, and frizz after just one use, with cumulative cuticle repair and moisture retention benefits building over weeks of consistent use. It is not a bond-rebuilder in the Olaplex/K18 sense, but as a protein-coating, ceramide-repairing, moisturizing weekly treatment, it is outstanding.Best for: damaged, frizzy, curly, bleached, and color-treated hair that needs intensive nourishment, shine, and manageability at an accessible price point.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Behentrimonium Chloride
Preservative
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Amodimethicone
Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|