Mugwort Water Gel Moisturizer
Mugwort Water Gel Moisturizer
Product Description
Product overview
A feather-light water gel moisturizer powered by Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris), Centella Asiatica, and Panthenol — specially formulated for acne-prone, oily, and sensitive skin. Delivers deep hydration while calming redness, soothing breakouts, and strengthening the skin barrier without clogging pores or leaving a heavy film.
Mugwort Anti-Inflammatory Power
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract delivers potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, visibly calming redness and soothing active breakouts from first use.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMugwort Anti-Inflammatory Power
Artemisia Vulgaris Extract delivers potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, visibly calming redness and soothing active breakouts from first use.
Centella Asiatica Barrier Repair
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production and helps restore the skin barrier, reducing sensitivity and post-acne redness.
Multi-Layer Hydration System
Combines Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Betaine, and Beta-Glucan for layered hydration that keeps skin plump without heaviness.
Natural Antibacterial Complex
Tea Tree Leaf Oil and Portulaca Oleracea Extract work synergistically to combat acne-causing bacteria and reduce future breakouts naturally.
Probiotic Skin Microbiome Support
Lactobacillus/Soymilk Ferment Filtrate helps balance the skin's microbiome, promoting a healthier, more resilient complexion over time.
Oat & Allantoin Soothing Duo
Avena Sativa Kernel Extract and Allantoin together calm irritation, reduce surface inflammation, and accelerate skin cell renewal for faster healing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGenerally considered low risk, but contains essential oils (Lavender, Tea Tree, Peppermint). These oils are generally advised with caution during the first trimester. Consult your healthcare provider before use if pregnant or nursing.
Confirmed fungal acne safe. Free from fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and other ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Very low pore-clogging potential. Water-gel base with no heavy oils or waxes. Suitable for oily, acne-prone, and congestion-prone skin types.
No conflicting actives. The soothing Centella, Allantoin, and Panthenol content actually helps buffer potential retinol-induced irritation when layered appropriately.
No ingredients that conflict with niacinamide or vitamin C. Safe to use in the same routine. Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate may complement brightening effects.
Suitable for use after chemical exfoliants. Allantoin and Panthenol help support post-exfoliation skin recovery and reduce post-peel sensitivity.
Contains Lavender Oil, Tea Tree Oil, and Peppermint Oil at low functional concentrations. Patch test recommended for very reactive or rosacea-prone skin.
Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. Formula does not contain ingredients harmful to coral reef ecosystems.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSArtemisia Vulgaris Extract (Mugwort) ~3–5%Proven
The hero ingredient and brand namesake. Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) is a traditional medicinal herb rich in flavonoids, artemisinin, and terpenes. It delivers powerful antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory activity, and antibacterial effects that directly target the root causes of acne-related inflammation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines; visibly calms angry, red breakouts
- Antioxidant: Protects skin cells from UV-induced and environmental oxidative damage
- Traditional use: Widely used in Korean, Chinese, and Indian medicine for skin healing
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — does not clog pores
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract (Cica) ~2–4%Proven
A beloved skin-repairing botanical from Southeast Asia. Rich in Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, and Asiatic Acid — actives that stimulate collagen synthesis, promote wound healing, and encourage the skin to naturally produce hyaluronic acid for lasting hydration.
- Barrier repair: Asiaticoside boosts fibroblast activity and supports epidermal regeneration
- Hydration: Promotes endogenous hyaluronic acid production in the dermis
- Scar healing: Multiple studies confirm improved healing of post-acne marks and minor wounds
- Anti-redness: Reduces visible capillary dilation and calms reactive skin
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1–3%Proven
One of the most evidence-backed humectants in skincare. Panthenol penetrates deeply into skin layers, converts to Pantothenic Acid (a critical component of healthy skin), and acts as both a humectant that attracts water and an emollient that locks it in. Known for accelerating wound healing and reducing post-acne redness.
- Humectant: Attracts and binds water molecules in the stratum corneum
- Wound healing: Stimulates tissue regeneration; shown to accelerate recovery from skin damage
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces skin irritation and supports recovery post-exfoliation or breakout
Beta-Glucan ~0.5–1%Proven
A next-generation hydrating polysaccharide derived from oats or yeast that outperforms hyaluronic acid in some skin penetration studies. Beta-Glucan forms a protective mesh on skin, activates skin immunity (Langerhans cells), and delivers long-lasting moisture without any occlusive heaviness.
- Deep hydration: Penetrates below the surface to hydrate skin layers that HA sometimes cannot reach
- Immune support: Activates cutaneous immune defense; helps skin fight environmental stressors
- Anti-aging bonus: Stimulates collagen synthesis and reduces the appearance of fine lines over time
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular weight, allowing superior skin penetration compared to standard HA. Capable of holding up to 1,000× its weight in water, Sodium Hyaluronate delivers immediate surface plumping and deep dermal hydration simultaneously.
- Instant plumping: Visibly reduces dehydration lines within 30 minutes of application
- Deep penetration: Smaller molecule size reaches the dermis for lasting moisture
- Barrier support: Reinforces the natural moisture retention capacity of the skin
Avena Sativa Kernel Extract (Oat) ~0.5–1%Proven
Colloidal oat extract is one of the most clinically documented skin-soothing ingredients available. Rich in avenanthramides — unique polyphenols with potent anti-itch, anti-redness, and anti-inflammatory properties. Ideal for calming post-breakout irritation and sensitized skin.
- Anti-itch: Avenanthramides inhibit histamine release and calm reactive skin responses
- Antioxidant: Protects against UV-induced inflammation and oxidative stress
- FDA-recognized: Colloidal oatmeal is officially recognized as an OTC skin protectant
Lactobacillus / Soymilk Ferment Filtrate ~0.5–1%Promising
A probiotic ferment filtrate derived from Lactobacillus fermentation of soymilk. Rich in amino acids, peptides, and bioactive compounds that support the skin's microbiome balance, strengthen barrier function, and provide mild brightening effects.
- Microbiome balance: Promotes beneficial bacteria on skin surface, suppressing acne-causing strains
- Brightening: Fermentation process yields compounds with mild tyrosinase-inhibiting properties
- Barrier fortification: Amino acid content supports ceramide production pathways
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root) ~0.1–0.3%Proven
The potassium salt of glycyrrhizic acid extracted from licorice root. One of the most effective anti-inflammatory and brightening agents in cosmetic science — significantly more stable than raw glycyrrhizin and known to inhibit melanin production, making it effective for fading post-acne dark spots.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits phospholipase A2 enzyme, reducing prostaglandin-mediated inflammation
- Dark spot reduction: Mild tyrosinase inhibition helps fade PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
- Soothing: Widely used in dermatological treatments for eczema and sensitive skin conditions
Portulaca Oleracea Extract (Purslane) ~0.5–1%Promising
Purslane is one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids and contains high levels of melatonin, betalain pigments, and vitamins C and E. Studies show it has excellent antioxidant activity and can soothe UV-induced skin damage and inflammation.
- Antioxidant: Among the highest ORAC values of any plant; neutralizes free radicals effectively
- Soothing: Shown to reduce UV-induced erythema and TEWL in clinical studies
- Omega-3 content: Supports barrier lipid synthesis and reduces inflammation pathways
Allantoin ~0.2–0.5%Proven
A classic skin-conditioning ingredient derived from comfrey root (synthetically produced for cosmetic purity). Allantoin is keratolytic at higher concentrations, but in typical cosmetic use at 0.1–2%, it excels as a skin soother, cell renewal stimulator, and protective moisturizer.
- Cell renewal: Promotes desquamation of dead skin cells, improving texture over time
- Wound healing: Accelerates re-epithelialization; reduces healing time of minor skin damage
- Moisture retention: Protects skin from environmental stressors and transepidermal water loss
29 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Betaine, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, 1,2-Hexanediol, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Propylene Glycol, Panthenol, PEG/PPG-14/7 Dimethyl Ether, Allantoin, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Lactobacillus/Soymilk Ferment Filtrate, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Glyceryl Caprylate, Mentha Piperita Oil, Beta-Glucan
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final hydrating step before SPF in the morning. At night, use after serums and before any occlusive treatment if needed. Works as a standalone moisturizer for oily/combination skin in both AM and PM routines.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a clean face. Use the Acnaway Mugwort Gel Facial Wash or your preferred gentle cleanser to remove all makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat skin dry — do not rub.
Apply Toner (Optional but Recommended)
For best results, apply a hydrating or balancing toner first to prep the skin and enhance absorption. Allow to absorb for 30 seconds before the next step.
Dispense a Small Amount
Scoop a pea-to-grape-sized amount (approximately 0.3–0.5g) of the water gel using clean fingers or the spatula included. A little goes a long way — overapplication may lead to slight pilling with some sunscreens.
Warm Between Palms
Gently press the product between your palms to warm it slightly. This helps the gel melt into the skin faster and distributes active ingredients more evenly.
Pat — Don't Rub — Onto Face and Neck
Use gentle pressing and patting motions across the entire face and neck. Avoid aggressive rubbing to preserve the delicate gel texture and maximize absorption. Allow 20–30 seconds to fully absorb.
Use Twice Daily — AM and PM
For best results, apply morning and evening consistently. In the morning, always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+. At night, this gel works as a complete standalone moisturizer for most oily to combination skin types.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin
- You experience frequent breakouts and inflammation
- You want a lightweight moisturizer that won't congest pores
- Your skin is reactive, red, or easily sensitized
- You're looking for fungal acne safe hydration
- You're building a budget-friendly Indonesian skincare routine
- You want mugwort + cica in a single step
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin needing rich occlusive moisture
- You are highly sensitive to essential oils (tea tree, lavender, peppermint)
- You are in the first trimester of pregnancy (essential oils caution)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free formulations
- You need SPF protection in your moisturizer
- You require ceramide-based barrier repair
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe water-gel base absorbs instantly without adding shine or clogging pores. Tea Tree and Mugwort actively reduce sebum-related breakouts. Top choice for oily skin types.
Specifically formulated for acne skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and loaded with anti-inflammatory actives. Calms active breakouts while preventing new ones.
Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Provides adequate hydration to drier zones without over-moisturizing the oily areas. Ideal for warm/humid climates.
Centella, Allantoin, and Beta-Glucan make this very calming. However, the essential oils (lavender, tea tree, peppermint) may irritate very reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Patch test first.
Provides light to moderate hydration suitable for mild dryness. Very dry skin may require a heavier cream layered on top, especially in cold or dry climates.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Soothing & Hydration
Immediate cooling and calming sensation upon application. Skin feels visibly less tight, and active redness begins to reduce. Oily skin users notice a balanced, non-greasy moisture level throughout the day.
92% noticed reduced tightnessReduced Inflammation & Breakout Calming
Consistent use of Mugwort + Tea Tree + Cica begins to visibly shrink active breakouts and reduce surrounding redness. Skin texture starts to improve with regular cell-renewal support from Allantoin.
78% noticed calmer breakoutsSmoother Texture & Reduced Pores
Continued use shows measurable improvement in skin surface smoothness. Post-acne marks begin to fade slightly due to Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate and Centella Asiatica. Pore appearance becomes less prominent.
65% noticed smoother skinFade Post-Acne Marks & Barrier Strengthening
Long-term use of Beta-Glucan, Panthenol, and Centella visibly reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The skin barrier becomes more resilient, and flare-up frequency decreases noticeably.
58% noticed faded post-acne marksRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight and fast-absorbing water gel texture
- Genuinely calms active breakouts and reduces redness quickly
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Excellent value — affordable price point for ingredient quality
- No harsh alcohols, parabens, or silicones
- Works well layered under sunscreen without pilling
- Suitable for humid tropical climates
- Contains multiple clinically studied actives (Cica, HA, Beta-Glucan, Allantoin)
Criticized
- Small 30g size may not last long with twice-daily use
- Open jar packaging is less hygienic than a pump or tube
- Contains essential oils — not fully fragrance-free
- May not provide enough moisture for dry or very dehydrated skin
- Some users reported initial purging during the first 1–2 weeks
- Caution advised during pregnancy due to essential oil content
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Centella Asiatica-focused lightweight gel with a soothing and anti-blemish focus. Fewer ingredients overall but the Cica concentration is higher. Less complete multi-active formula but excellent for strictly Cica-focused users. Slightly higher price per ml.
Indonesian brand alternative with hyaluronic acid and ceramide focus. More barrier-repairing but lacks the mugwort, tea tree, and probiotic actives. Better for dry skin types; Acnaway performs better for acne-prone users. Larger size for the price.
Korean brand targeting acne-prone skin with AHAs, BHAs, and tea tree. Exfoliating focus makes it different in function but overlaps in target audience. Better for active exfoliation routines; Acnaway is more gentle daily hydration. Not suitable for those avoiding exfoliants.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within 12 months of first opening for optimal efficacy and safety. Discard if the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Ideally kept below 25°C (77°F). Can be stored in the refrigerator for an extra cooling and soothing effect when applied.
Comes in an open jar format (30g). Use a clean spatula or scoop to maintain hygiene. Avoid introducing water or contaminants into the jar to extend shelf life.
Yes — the 30g size is under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on airline travel. Compact and lightweight for on-the-go skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe product does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide — the ingredients most strictly restricted during pregnancy. However, it contains three essential oils: Lavandula Angustifolia Oil (Lavender), Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree), and Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint). Essential oils are generally advised with caution during the first trimester and some healthcare providers recommend avoiding them throughout pregnancy. The concentrations in this formula are low, but we always recommend consulting your OB-GYN or midwife before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes — this product is confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. It does not contain fatty acids, esters derived from problematic fatty acids, polysorbates, or other Malassezia-feeding ingredients that are commonly found in moisturizers. The Lactobacillus/Soymilk Ferment Filtrate is also confirmed safe — fermented filtrates in this form do not feed Malassezia yeast. The Glyceryl Caprylate in the formula is used as a preservative booster and at cosmetic concentrations does not pose a significant fungal acne risk. This makes the Acnaway Mugwort Water Gel one of the most suitable moisturizers available for fungal acne-prone skin types.
Yes, this moisturizer is compatible with all three. With retinol: apply retinol first, wait 20–30 minutes, then layer this gel on top — the Panthenol, Centella, and Allantoin will help buffer irritation. With Vitamin C: there are no conflicting ingredients; apply Vitamin C serum first, then this moisturizer. With AHA/BHA: this gel makes an excellent post-exfoliant moisturizer, as its soothing actives (Allantoin, Cica, Beta-Glucan) support skin recovery. Avoid using directly at the same time as high-concentration acids if your skin is very sensitive — always apply acid first, let it absorb, then moisturize.
This product was specifically formulated for acne-prone and oily skin types, which is reflected in its water-gel base, non-comedogenic formula, and anti-acne active complex (Mugwort, Tea Tree, Centella). It is also excellent for combination skin, especially in warm or humid climates where heavy moisturizers feel uncomfortable. Sensitive skin can benefit from the soothing actives, though the presence of essential oils means a patch test is strongly recommended. Dry and very dry skin types may find this insufficient as a standalone moisturizer and may need to layer a heavier cream or facial oil on top.
Results vary by concern. Soothing and hydration benefits are immediate — most users notice reduced redness and a more comfortable skin feel within the first few applications. For breakout reduction and calming of active acne, expect visible improvement within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Skin texture smoothing and pore refinement typically become noticeable by weeks 3–4. For fading post-acne dark spots and hyperpigmentation, allow 6–12 weeks of consistent use, as this is a gradual process supported by Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate and Centella Asiatica rather than a dedicated brightening treatment.
This moisturizer is applied as your final hydrating step before SPF in the morning. In the evening, it follows your serum or essence and serves as your last skincare step (unless you use a sleeping mask or occlusive). The correct routine order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence/Serum (optional) → Acnaway Mugwort Water Gel Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). For acne treatment routines, apply spot treatments before the moisturizer. If using retinol, apply retinol first and allow it to absorb before applying this gel. This product is appropriate for both AM and PM use.
No — this moisturizer has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The water-gel base is free from heavy oils, butters, and waxy emollients that are most associated with pore clogging. The key humectants (Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine, Panthenol) are all rated 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. None of the botanical extracts (Mugwort, Centella, Oat, Aloe) have meaningful comedogenic potential. This formula was specifically designed to be used on acne-prone skin, making pore safety a core formulation priority.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, meaning the product remains safe and effective for up to 12 months from the date you first open the jar. The 30g jar used twice daily (AM + PM) with a recommended amount of approximately 0.3–0.5g per application will typically last 1–2 months. To extend shelf life: always use a clean spatula rather than fingers, keep the lid tightly closed when not in use, store away from heat and direct sunlight, and consider refrigerating it. Discard the product if you notice any change in color, smell, or texture before the 12-month period is up.
Verdict: The Acnaway Mugwort Water Gel Moisturizer is a remarkably well-formulated product for its ultra-affordable price point. Packaging an impressive roster of clinically relevant actives — Mugwort, Centella Asiatica, Panthenol, Beta-Glucan, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, and a probiotic ferment — into a lightweight, fast-absorbing, fungal-acne-safe gel formula demonstrates serious formulation intent. For oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types — particularly in warm, humid climates — this is an outstanding daily moisturizer. The accessible Indonesian price point makes it one of the best value-for-actives moisturizers in the Southeast Asian beauty market. Minor drawbacks include the small 30g jar size, open-jar packaging, and the presence of three essential oils that may not suit all sensitive skin users. Overall, highly recommended for anyone building an effective acne-focused or calming skincare routine on a budget.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Arginine
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
|