Moisturising Cream for Dry Skin & Eczema
Moisturising Cream for Dry Skin & Eczema
Product Description
Product overview
E45 Moisturising Cream is a clinically proven, dermatologist-recommended emollient that forms a protective occlusive barrier to lock in moisture and relieve dry, flaking, chapped, and eczema-prone skin. Trusted by healthcare professionals for over 70 years, this fragrance-free, non-greasy formula is suitable for the whole family — including babies from 1 month old — and can be used on face, body, and hands daily.
Occlusive Moisture Lock
White soft paraffin (14.5%) and liquid paraffin (12.6%) form a physical barrier on skin to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping severely dry skin hydrated for hours.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOcclusive Moisture Lock
White soft paraffin (14.5%) and liquid paraffin (12.6%) form a physical barrier on skin to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping severely dry skin hydrated for hours.
Hypoallergenic Lanolin (Medilan®)
Uses a specially purified form of lanolin — Medilan® — that removes allergenic components, providing superior emolliency with a reduced risk of lanolin allergy versus standard lanolin.
Whole-Family Safe
Clinically tested and safe for adults, children, and babies from just 1 month old. Used in hospitals and recommended by GPs, dermatologists, and pharmacists throughout the UK.
Clinically Proven Efficacy
Proven to treat flaking, chapped, and sunburned skin, as well as eczema, dermatitis, ichthyosis, and certain dry cases of psoriasis. Recognised as a licensed medical emollient in the UK.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGenerally considered safe to use topically during pregnancy. Contains parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben) — while low-dose topical paraben exposure is regarded as safe by regulatory bodies, some prefer paraben-free products during pregnancy. Consult your midwife or GP if concerned. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present.
Contains Lanolin Wax — a fatty acid-rich ingredient that can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger or worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). Avoid if you're prone to fungal acne, particularly on chest and back.
Paraffin (white soft paraffin) has a comedogenic rating of 0–1, but lanolin wax and cetyl alcohol are rated 2–4. The overall formula is moderately comedogenic — use with caution on acne-prone facial skin. Better suited to body, hands, and very dry facial areas.
Completely fragrance-free and dye-free. Dermatologically tested. Suitable for very sensitive and reactive skin types. Patch test recommended for latex or wool alcohol allergy sufferers.
Formulated specifically for eczema, atopic dermatitis, ichthyosis, and psoriasis. Licensed as a medical emollient in the UK. Free from known eczema irritants such as fragrance, dyes, and essential oils.
Contains methyl hydroxybenzoate (methylparaben) and propylparaben as preservatives. Regulatory bodies including the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety consider these safe at the concentrations used in cosmetics. Those preferring paraben-free formulas may wish to choose an alternative.
As with all paraffin-containing emollients, there is a fire risk from product residue on fabrics. Do not smoke or go near naked flames when using or immediately after applying. Wash fabrics regularly to reduce build-up.
Contains no topical corticosteroids. Can be used daily long-term as a standalone emollient or alongside prescription steroid treatments as directed by a healthcare professional.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSParaffin (White Soft Paraffin) 14.5%Proven
White soft paraffin is the primary active ingredient and key occlusive agent in E45 Cream. At 14.5% it forms a semi-solid wax layer on the skin surface that physically prevents water from evaporating through the skin (TEWL), making it highly effective for severely dry, cracked, and eczema-affected skin.
- Function: Occlusive emollient — prevents transepidermal water loss
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0–1 — considered non-comedogenic at standard concentrations
- Clinical use: Used in licensed dermatological preparations throughout the UK and Europe
- Evidence: Widely studied; occlusive agents have strong clinical evidence for managing dry skin conditions and eczema
Paraffinum Liquidum (Light Liquid Paraffin) 12.6%Proven
Light liquid paraffin (mineral oil) is the second active ingredient. In its highly purified pharmaceutical grade, it acts as both an emollient and occlusive, spreading over the skin to soften the stratum corneum and lock in hydration. It is extremely well-tolerated and non-sensitising.
- Function: Emollient + occlusive — softens and smooths skin surface
- Purity: Pharmaceutical grade (Ph. Eur.) — highly refined, low irritation potential
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0 — non-comedogenic
- Safety: Extensively studied; WHO and EU regulatory authorities consider pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil safe for topical use
Lanolin Wax (Anhydrous Lanolin — Medilan®) 1%Proven
Lanolin is a natural wax derived from sheep's wool sebum. E45 uses Medilan® — a specially purified, hypoallergenic form — which removes the sensitising components responsible for most lanolin allergies. At 1%, it provides superior moisturising and skin-softening properties, closely mimicking the skin's own lipids.
- Function: Emollient + humectant — softens skin and binds moisture
- Special grade: Medilan® removes sensitising allergens from standard lanolin
- Barrier mimicry: Structurally similar to human skin lipids, supporting barrier repair
- Allergy note: Rare sensitivity still possible in lanolin-allergic individuals — patch test recommended
Glyceryl Stearate ~2–4%Promising
An emulsifier and emollient formed from glycerin and stearic acid. It stabilises the oil-in-water emulsion of the cream, preventing separation, while also softening the skin surface and contributing to a smooth, spreadable texture.
- Function: Emulsifier + emollient
- Comedogenicity: Rated 1 — very low risk
- Derived from: Vegetable oils (often palm or soy) or synthetic sources
Cetyl Alcohol ~1–3%Proven
Despite its name, cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol — not a drying alcohol. It acts as an emollient and co-emulsifier, thickening the formula and helping stabilise the cream while softening the skin. It is derived from coconut or palm oil.
- Function: Emollient + emulsion stabiliser + thickener
- Comedogenicity: Rated 2 — low to moderate, generally well-tolerated
- Safety note: May cause contact dermatitis in rare sensitive individuals (noted in the product SmPC)
Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate ~0.5–1%Promising
A mild anionic surfactant and emulsifier that helps blend the water and oil phases of the cream. Used at very low concentrations in emollients, though some sensitive skin communities consider it a potential mild irritant in wash-off products (less of a concern in leave-on creams).
- Function: Emulsifier / surfactant
- Concentration in this product: Very low (leave-on formulation)
Carbomer ~0.2–0.5%Proven
A polyacrylate polymer used as a thickener and gelling agent. It gives the cream its smooth, spreadable texture and helps maintain a stable emulsion across temperature changes. Extremely well-tolerated, even on sensitive skin.
- Function: Thickener / rheology modifier
- Safety: Very low irritation potential; widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations
Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate (Methylparaben) + Propylparaben ~0.1–0.2%Proven
Two parabens used as broad-spectrum preservatives to protect the formula from microbial contamination and extend shelf life. The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has confirmed these are safe at the concentrations used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
- Function: Preservative system — prevents mould and bacterial growth
- Regulatory status: Approved by EU, UK, and US regulatory bodies at concentrations used here
- Allergen note: May rarely cause delayed allergic reactions — discontinue use if rash develops
12 ingredients — Active: Paraffin 14.5%, Paraffinum Liquidum 12.6%, Lanolin Wax (Medilan®) 1%. Inactive: Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Carbomer, Methyl Dihydroxybenzoate (Methylparaben), Propylparaben, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Water (Aqua).
Sodium Hydroxide and Citric Acid are used as pH adjusters to ensure skin-compatible pH levels (~5.5).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAs an occlusive emollient, E45 Cream should be applied as the last or second-to-last step in your routine (before SPF in the morning). Apply to damp skin after bathing for maximum moisture retention. Can be used 2–3 times daily or as needed.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash affected skin with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser or E45's own Emollient Wash Cream. Pat skin dry with a soft towel — do not rub. Leave skin slightly damp for best results.
Apply Liberally
Scoop or pump an adequate amount of E45 Cream and apply to affected areas. Use a smooth, downward stroking motion in the direction of hair growth to reduce the risk of folliculitis.
Massage Until Absorbed
Gently massage into skin until the cream is absorbed (approximately 1–2 minutes). The cream should leave skin feeling soft and slightly waxy — not greasy. Avoid rubbing too vigorously on inflamed eczema skin.
Repeat 2–3 Times Daily
Apply 2–3 times daily or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. For best results, apply immediately after bathing and before bed. During an eczema flare, apply more frequently to maintain moisture lock.
Apply Sunscreen in AM (if using on face)
If applying to the face during the day, follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. The occlusive base of E45 Cream creates an excellent primer layer beneath SPF for enhanced skin protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have very dry, flaking, or cracked skin on the body or hands
- You suffer from eczema, dermatitis, ichthyosis, or psoriasis
- You need a fragrance-free, dye-free emollient for sensitive skin
- You want a clinically proven, pharmacist-recommended moisturiser
- You are looking for a whole-family cream safe for babies (1 month+)
- You need an everyday body moisturiser for chronically dry skin
- You want a budget-friendly, large-format emollient cream
- You need a steroid-free option for daily long-term use
Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) — lanolin is not safe
- You have confirmed lanolin or wool alcohol allergy
- You want a non-comedogenic facial moisturiser for oily or acne-prone skin
- You prefer paraben-free formulations (e.g. during pregnancy)
- You require hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or active anti-aging ingredients
- You want a vegan-certified product (contains lanolin from sheep)
- You need a lightweight lotion rather than a thick cream
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for very dry and severely dehydrated skin. The high paraffin content creates a long-lasting occlusive barrier that significantly reduces moisture loss and restores skin softness.
Clinically proven for eczema. A licensed medical emollient recommended by dermatologists and GPs specifically for atopic dermatitis and dry-phase eczema management.
Fragrance-free and dermatologically tested. Suitable for most sensitive skin types. Patch test recommended if you have a known lanolin, cetyl alcohol, or paraben sensitivity.
Can feel heavy for normal or combination skin types. Better suited to dry areas of the body (elbows, heels, hands) rather than all-over facial use. A lighter lotion may be preferable.
Not recommended for oily or acne-prone skin. The thick, occlusive texture can feel too heavy, and lanolin wax is not fungal acne safe. The moderate comedogenic rating (3/5) may clog pores.
Results timeline
4–8 WEEKSImmediate Soothing & Softening
Skin feels immediately softer, less tight, and more comfortable. The occlusive barrier locks in existing moisture on contact. Redness and irritation from dryness are visibly reduced.
95% noticed immediate comfortReduced Flaking & Scaling
With regular twice-daily application, visible flaking and scaling noticeably decreases. Skin texture begins to smooth out. Itching associated with dry skin or mild eczema is reduced.
80% noticed reduced flakingSignificantly Improved Skin Texture
Consistent use produces visibly smoother, softer skin. Clinically, results in visible dryness reduction are observed within 2 weeks of daily use. Eczema patches typically calm significantly with regular emollient therapy.
75% noticed visible improvement at 2 weeksSustained Skin Barrier Improvement
Long-term daily use supports maintenance of the skin's moisture barrier. Eczema flare frequency typically reduces with consistent emollient use. Skin remains softer, more resilient, and less reactive to environmental triggers.
70% reported sustained barrier improvementRatings by platform
38K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven and dermatologist-recommended for 70+ years
- Excellent relief for severe dryness, eczema, and dermatitis
- Completely fragrance-free and dye-free
- Safe for whole family including babies (1 month+)
- Highly cost-effective — available in large economy sizes
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing for a thick cream
- Available on NHS prescription in the UK
- Widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets, and online
- Very few ingredients — minimal irritant potential
Criticized
- Contains parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben)
- Not vegan — contains lanolin from sheep
- Not fungal acne safe — lanolin feeds Malassezia
- Moderately comedogenic (3/5) — not ideal for acne-prone or oily skin
- Pump packaging can clog or malfunction
- No added humectants (e.g. glycerin, hyaluronic acid) — primarily occlusive, not hydrating
- Fire risk with paraffin residue on fabrics — requires fabric care
- Some users report skin becoming dependent — dryness returns quickly if discontinued
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar paraffin-based emollient formula. Contains white soft paraffin and liquid paraffin at comparable concentrations. Also fragrance-free and dermatologically tested. A close UK pharmacy alternative often prescribed alongside steroid creams. Slightly different preservative system (no parabens in some versions).
Oat-based lotion with lighter texture than E45 Cream. Contains colloidal oatmeal for soothing properties. Paraben-free. A good alternative for sensitive and eczema-prone skin preferring a lighter lotion formula. Less occlusive than E45 — may need more frequent reapplication for very dry skin.
Another UK pharmacy emollient cream based on white soft paraffin and liquid paraffin. Available on NHS prescription. Fragrance-free and suitable for eczema and dry skin. Contains no lanolin — better choice for lanolin-allergic individuals. Slightly lighter texture than E45.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEE45 Moisturising Cream — Featured
Diprobase Emollient Cream (Bayer)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the jar or tube symbol on the packaging for the PAO symbol (e.g. 12M). Use within this period for full efficacy and safety.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not freeze. Keep the lid firmly closed between uses to prevent contamination.
Available in a white plastic tub (50g, 125g, 350g, 500g) or pump dispenser (500g). The tub is hygienic when used with a clean spatula. Pump dispenser is more hygienic for daily family use.
Available in 50g tube — suitable for hand luggage (under 100ml liquid restriction). The 50g size is ideal for travel, gym bags, or desk use. Larger tubs (350g, 500g) are not travel-approved for carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQE45 Moisturising Cream is generally considered safe to use topically during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen agents — the ingredients most commonly flagged as unsafe in pregnancy. However, the formula does contain two parabens (methylparaben and propylparaben) as preservatives. While major regulatory bodies including the EU and UK consider parabens safe at the concentrations used in cosmetics, some individuals prefer to avoid them during pregnancy as an extra precaution. If you are concerned, speak to your midwife, GP, or pharmacist before use. The active emollient ingredients (paraffins, lanolin) are widely used in pregnancy-safe products and present no known risks.
No — E45 Moisturising Cream is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Lanolin Wax (Medilan® anhydrous lanolin), which is a fatty acid-rich ingredient known to feed and promote the growth of Malassezia yeast — the organism responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you are prone to fungal acne, particularly on the chest, back, or shoulders, you should avoid E45 Cream on these areas. Consider Diprobase Emollient Cream or another lanolin-free emollient as an alternative. E45's lotion formulations also contain lanolin — check the specific product INCI list carefully.
Yes, you can use E45 Cream alongside active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA — but the order and timing matters. E45 is a thick occlusive emollient, meaning it should typically be applied as the last or near-last step in your routine, after serums and treatments. Applying E45 before actives will create a barrier that reduces their absorption and efficacy. For retinol and AHA/BHA users with dry or sensitive skin, applying E45 Cream after (not before) your actives helps seal in hydration and reduces irritation. Avoid mixing E45 directly with vitamin C serums as the low-pH environment of acidic actives may affect formula stability.
E45 Moisturising Cream is best suited for dry, very dry, eczema-prone, and sensitive skin types. It excels on body skin, particularly for conditions like eczema, dermatitis, ichthyosis, psoriasis, and chronically dry areas such as elbows, heels, and hands. It is less suitable for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin — the thick occlusive texture and moderately comedogenic rating (3/5) make it too heavy for these skin types, particularly on the face. Normal skin types may find it too rich for all-over daily use, though it works well as a targeted treatment for dry patches.
Results are quick with E45 Cream. Skin feels softer and more comfortable from the very first application, with immediate reduction in tightness and discomfort. Visible improvements in flaking, scaling, and roughness are typically noticeable within 1–3 days of twice-daily use. Clinically, significant visible improvement in dry skin appearance is generally observed within 2 weeks of regular daily use. For eczema management, consistent use as part of an emollient therapy routine typically reduces flare frequency and severity over 4–8 weeks. Continued daily use is key — symptoms often return if the emollient is stopped, as E45 manages rather than cures underlying dryness conditions.
As an occlusive emollient, E45 Cream should be applied as the final or second-to-last step in your routine (before SPF in the morning). The correct order is: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Serum/Treatment → E45 Cream → Sunscreen (AM). Apply to slightly damp skin after bathing or washing for maximum moisture retention — the occlusive layer helps seal in water absorbed during cleansing. In the evening, E45 can be the last step after all other products. For eczema management, apply 2–3 times daily and always after bathing, which is when skin is most receptive to emollient therapy.
E45 Moisturising Cream has a moderate comedogenic rating of approximately 3/5, primarily due to lanolin wax (rated 2–4 on the comedogenic scale) and cetyl alcohol (rated 2). The paraffin actives themselves are rated 0–1 (non-comedogenic). This means E45 Cream is not ideal for use on oily, acne-prone, or pore-sensitive facial skin — it may contribute to clogged pores or breakouts in these individuals. For body use on non-acne areas it is generally well-tolerated. If you have acne-prone skin but need an emollient for a dry skin condition, consider a lanolin-free, lower-comedogenicity alternative such as Diprobase Cream or a ceramide-based moisturiser.
E45 Moisturising Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use within 12 months for full safety and efficacy. Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. When using a tub, use a clean spatula or washed hands to prevent contamination, which can reduce the product's effective lifespan. The pump dispenser format is inherently more hygienic for family use. The 500g tub typically lasts 2–3 months when used 2–3 times daily on the whole body, making it excellent value for long-term dry skin management.
Verdict: E45 Moisturising Cream is a time-tested, clinically proven British pharmacy classic that delivers exactly what it promises: effective, long-lasting moisture relief for dry, eczema-prone, and sensitive skin. Its simple, high-concentration paraffin and Medilan® lanolin formula has been trusted by dermatologists, GPs, and families for over 70 years — and for good reason.It excels as a body emollient for severe dryness and eczema, offering exceptional value in large economy sizes and availability on NHS prescription. However, it falls short for those seeking a modern, ceramide-enriched, paraben-free, or vegan formulation, and is not recommended for oily, acne-prone, or fungal-acne-sensitive skin. If you have chronically dry skin or an eczema-related condition and want a clinically backed, no-frills emollient at a great price point, E45 Cream remains one of the best options available in the UK.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Paraffin
Emollient, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lanolin
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skinprotectant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate
Cleansing, Foaming, Surfactant
|
|