Night Shift
Night Shift
Product Description
Product overview
Stratia Night Shift is a science-first retinol night cream formulated to visibly smooth, firm, and brighten skin while you sleep. Its 0.15% encapsulated retinol — wrapped in a protective lipid sphere — delivers vitamin A deep into the dermis with significantly less irritation than traditional formulas. Fortified with a trio of ceramides, panthenol, and Centella asiatica, this rich yet non-greasy cream strengthens the skin barrier at the same time it drives cellular turnover, making it one of the most beginner-friendly retinol products on the market.
Encapsulated Retinol Technology
0.15% retinol is sealed inside a microscopic wax lipid sphere, protecting it from degradation and releasing it deeper in the skin for better bioavailability and dramatically reduced surface irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYEncapsulated Retinol Technology
0.15% retinol is sealed inside a microscopic wax lipid sphere, protecting it from degradation and releasing it deeper in the skin for better bioavailability and dramatically reduced surface irritation.
Triple Ceramide Barrier Complex
Ceramides NP, AP, and EOP — combined with phytosphingosine and cholesterol — rebuild and maintain the natural lipid matrix of the skin barrier, reducing moisture loss and increasing resilience.
Centella Asiatica (Cica) Calming
Hydrolyzed Centella asiatica extract provides clinically-studied anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and antioxidant support, directly countering the potential redness from retinol use.
Marula & Squalane Nourishment
Plant-derived squalane and marula (Sclerocarya birrea) seed oil deliver antioxidant-rich, deeply emollient hydration without clogging pores — keeping the formula rich but non-greasy overnight.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Hydration
A humectant and skin-soother that draws moisture to the skin surface, reduces inflammation and accelerates tissue repair — particularly valuable alongside active retinol.
Collagen Stimulation & Cell Turnover
Retinol stimulates new collagen production in the dermis, increases epidermal cell turnover to fade dark spots, and thickens the epidermis — working visibly on fine lines, texture, and tone over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENight Shift contains retinol, a vitamin A derivative. All retinoids — including OTC retinol — are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risk to the developing fetus. Stratia explicitly advises against use during these periods.
Night Shift contains several fatty acids and emollients (stearic acid, oleic-acid-rich marula oil, cholesterol, Helianthus annuus seed oil) that may feed Malassezia yeast. Those with active fungal acne should patch test carefully or consider an alternative.
Rated 2/5 overall. Squalane (0/5) and dimethicone are non-comedogenic. Marula oil is moderately comedogenic (3–4/5) but at a relatively low concentration in the formula. Most users report no breakouts with this product.
All Stratia products are completely free from added fragrance, alcohol, and essential oils, making Night Shift significantly less likely to trigger contact dermatitis or sensitivity reactions.
Formulated without any animal-derived ingredients. The cholesterol in the ceramide complex is confirmed by Stratia to be plant-derived. No animal testing performed by Stratia or its suppliers.
Retinol increases photosensitivity and degrades in UV light. Night Shift must be used only in your evening routine. Always apply SPF 30+ the following morning to protect skin and prevent degradation of results.
Night Shift uses methylparaben and propylparaben as preservatives. These are among the most thoroughly studied preservative systems in cosmetics and are considered safe at the concentrations used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
Encapsulation of the retinol plus a robust soothing complex (ceramides, panthenol, cica, allantoin) makes this one of the most tolerable retinol products available. Ideal for retinol beginners and reactive skin types when introduced gradually.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinol (Encapsulated) 0.15%Proven
The hero active: a fat-soluble vitamin A derivative that is the gold standard in anti-aging skincare. Encapsulation inside a lipid sphere stabilizes this notoriously fragile molecule and allows it to penetrate deeper before releasing, reducing surface irritation compared to free retinol at the same concentration.
- Mechanism: Converted in skin to retinaldehyde then to retinoic acid, which binds to nuclear retinoid receptors to regulate gene expression
- Anti-aging: Stimulates type I collagen synthesis, reverses UV-induced collagen degradation, reduces fine lines and wrinkles (Kafi et al., Archives of Dermatology, 2007)
- Cell turnover: Accelerates epidermal cell turnover, fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Moisture: Increases glycosaminoglycan concentration for improved skin hydration and plumpness
- Encapsulation advantage: Lipid sphere delivery improves stability, reduces trans-epidermal water loss during conversion, lowers irritation threshold
Ceramide Complex (NP + AP + EOP) ~0.35–0.80% eachProven
A complete skin-identical ceramide trio that mirrors the natural lipid composition of the stratum corneum. Combined with phytosphingosine and cholesterol, this forms a complete multi-lamellar membrane repair system — the same approach used in dermatologist-recommended products like CeraVe and Avène.
- Ceramide NP: Maintains water permeability barrier; deficiency associated with eczema and atopic dermatitis
- Ceramide AP: Regulates keratinocyte differentiation and desquamation; found at highest levels in the upper stratum corneum
- Ceramide EOP: Crucial linker ceramide that anchors lamellar bodies to corneocytes; most depleted in dry skin conditions
- Phytosphingosine: Sphingoid base precursor to ceramide synthesis; also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Cholesterol: Completes the 3:1:1 ceramide:cholesterol:fatty acid ratio needed for optimal barrier function (Elias, 2005)
Hydrolyzed Centella Asiatica Extract Functional LevelProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, Centella asiatica is one of the most extensively researched soothing botanicals in dermatology. The hydrolyzed form improves skin penetration of its active triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid).
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits NF-κB pathway and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α)
- Collagen synthesis: Asiaticoside and madecassoside stimulate collagen I and III synthesis in fibroblasts
- Wound healing: Accelerates re-epithelialization and reduces scar formation
- Antioxidant: Scavenges reactive oxygen species to protect against UV-induced oxidative damage
Squalane 3–5% est.Proven
A fully saturated, plant-derived (typically olive or sugarcane) emollient that is structurally identical to the squalane naturally produced by human sebaceous glands. One of the best-tolerated moisturizing oils in skincare — non-comedogenic, non-sensitizing, and highly stable.
- Emolliency: Fills intercellular spaces in the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss
- Comedogenic rating: 0/5 — universally non-pore-clogging
- Antioxidant: Acts as a scavenger of singlet oxygen radicals at the skin surface
Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil 2–4% est.Proven
Cold-pressed from the seeds of the African marula fruit, this deeply nourishing oil is rich in oleic acid (~70%) and palmitic acid, with notable levels of antioxidant tocopherols and phenolic compounds.
- Emolliency: High oleic acid content deeply conditions and softens skin overnight
- Antioxidant: Rich in vitamin E and polyphenols that neutralize free radicals
- Fast absorption: Despite richness, absorbs rapidly without greasy residue
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1–3% est.Proven
A provitamin that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. Acts simultaneously as a humectant, emollient, and skin-repair agent — an ideal partner ingredient for active formulas containing retinol.
- Humectancy: Draws water from the dermis to the epidermis, increasing stratum corneum hydration
- Wound repair: Promotes fibroblast proliferation and accelerates re-epithelialization
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness, itching, and irritation in compromised skin
- Well-tolerated: Non-sensitizing, suitable for even the most reactive skin types
Allantoin ~0.5% est.Proven
A naturally occurring compound found in comfrey root that is synthesized for cosmetic use. One of the most effective skin-softening and soothing actives available at low concentrations.
- Keratolytic: Softens and smooths rough skin by promoting healthy desquamation
- Soothing: Reduces irritation, redness, and discomfort — directly counteracts retinol sensitization
- Wound healing: Stimulates cell proliferation and tissue repair
Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract Trace LevelPromising
An extract from the hop plant used in Night Shift for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Helps preserve formula integrity and provides secondary benefit against surface microbial imbalance.
- Antimicrobial: Humulone and lupulone compounds inhibit gram-positive bacteria
- Antioxidant: Flavonoids and phenolic acids scavenge free radicals
32 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Squalane, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Panthenol, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone, Hydrolyzed Centella Asiatica Extract, Retinol, Allantoin, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Cera, Propanediol, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINENight Shift replaces your regular evening moisturizer — apply it as the last (or second-to-last) step of your PM routine. Do not layer another moisturizer on top unless your skin is very dry. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart on Clean, Dry Skin
Complete your PM cleansing routine. Pat skin gently dry and allow it to air for 30 seconds. Applying retinol to damp skin increases absorption and may increase the risk of irritation for beginners.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount (approximately 0.25ml) onto your fingertips. This is sufficient to cover the entire face. Using more does not increase efficacy and may raise irritation risk.
Warm Between Fingers and Press In
Gently warm the cream between your fingertips for 5 seconds, then press and smooth evenly across cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. Avoid the immediate eye area and lips.
Build Frequency Gradually
Begin with 1–2 nights per week for the first 2–3 weeks. Increase to 3–4 nights per week in weeks 3–6. Once your skin has fully acclimated (no redness, peeling, or tightness), you may use nightly. Stratia recommends nightly use as the end goal.
Apply SPF the Next Morning
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning is non-negotiable while using Night Shift to protect results and prevent UV-induced damage.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You are new to retinol and want a beginner-friendly formula
- You want anti-aging benefits (fine lines, collagen, texture) without harsh irritation
- You have dry or sensitive skin that struggles with standard retinol products
- You want to replace your evening moisturizer with an active treatment
- You want a fragrance-free, science-backed formulation with no marketing fluff
- You are working on post-acne marks, uneven skin tone, or dullness
- You want a more affordable alternative to prescription-strength retinoids
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- You have severe or cystic active acne (a prescription retinoid may be more appropriate)
- You are already using prescription tretinoin or a strong retinoid (0.5%+)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) that is currently active
- You are using multiple strong exfoliating actives (AHAs, BHAs) at the same time
- You are seeking a high-percentage retinol formula (0.5–1%) for accelerated results
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich cream base with squalane, marula, and ceramides provides deep overnight nourishment. Dry skin types often find this one of the few retinol products that does not cause further dehydration or flaking.
An ideal nighttime all-in-one: moisturizer, retinol treatment, and barrier support in a single step. Normal skin types acclimate quickly and can typically reach nightly use within 4–6 weeks.
Works well across different zones. Some very oily T-zones may find it slightly rich, but dimethicone helps balance sebum feel. The non-greasy finish avoids congestion in oilier areas.
Described by users as "deeply moisturizing but non-greasy." Retinol's pore-tightening and sebum-regulating effects benefit oily skin long-term. Some oily skin types prefer lighter retinol serum formats.
Specifically praised by reviewers with reactive skin. Encapsulated retinol plus cica, allantoin, and panthenol make this one of the most tolerated retinol products for sensitive skin types when introduced gradually.
Retinol normalizes keratinization and may help prevent pore clogging. However, oleic-acid-rich marula oil may not suit all acne-prone skin. Low comedogenic rating (2/5) means most users are unaffected.
Results timeline
MONTH 4–6Immediate Softness & Hydration
Ceramides, squalane, and panthenol begin reinforcing the moisture barrier from night one. Most users notice softer, more comfortable skin within the first week regardless of retinol effects.
90% noticedImproved Texture & Early Glow
Retinol begins accelerating cell turnover — dull, rough surface cells are replaced faster. Users frequently report a brighter, smoother complexion and reduced appearance of clogged pores by the end of week 4.
70% noticedVisible Dark Spot Fading & Pore Refinement
Accelerated desquamation begins to visibly fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun spots. Pore appearance is minimized. Many users report they need less foundation or concealer at this stage.
65% noticedFine Line Reduction & Firmer Skin
Retinol-stimulated collagen production becomes measurable. Fine lines and surface wrinkles are visibly softened. Skin feels denser, bouncier, and more resilient. Results compound with continued consistent use.
55% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Encapsulated retinol dramatically reduces irritation vs. free retinol
- Genuinely nourishing cream base — works as a standalone night moisturizer
- Complete ceramide NP + AP + EOP complex for superior barrier repair
- Completely fragrance-free, alcohol-free, essential oil-free
- Excellent value at $30 for a retinol + ceramide night cream
- Suitable for retinol beginners and sensitive skin types
- Transparent formulation philosophy from science-first brand
- Vegan, cruelty-free, made in Los Angeles
Criticized
- Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- 0.15% retinol may be too low for experienced retinol users seeking faster results
- Marula oil content may not suit all fungal-acne or oleic-acid-sensitive skin types
- Results require consistent 3–6 month commitment before full anti-aging effects appear
- 50ml tube packaging makes gauging remaining product difficult
- Requires introduction period — can't be used nightly from day one
- Limited availability outside the US (mainly direct from Stratia or Amazon)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares encapsulated retinol and a ceramide complex (NP, AP, EOP), both fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin. CeraVe uses a lighter serum texture vs Night Shift's cream — good for oily skin. Lacks marula oil and centella asiatica, making it less luxurious but slightly more fungal-acne safe.
A classic drugstore retinol night cream at a similar price point. Contains 0.1% retinol (Accelerated Retinol SA formula) and hyaluronic acid, but lacks ceramides and the rich soothing complex. More accessible globally but potentially more irritating due to fragrance in some variants.
Higher free retinol concentration (0.2%) in a minimal squalane base — much more affordable but significantly more irritating as free retinol. No ceramides, no barrier repair ingredients, no centella. Best for those who have already tolerated retinol and want a stripped-back active-only formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.10%
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Retinol is an inherently unstable molecule — once opened, use within this window for full potency and efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in bathrooms with high heat and humidity. Some users refrigerate their retinol products to extend stability — this is optional but beneficial.
Tube packaging with a screw-on cap. Minimizes air exposure compared to open-mouth jars, helping protect the encapsulated retinol from degradation. Note: squeeze tube makes it difficult to judge remaining product.
Yes — 50ml (1.7 fl oz) is compliant with TSA carry-on liquid rules (under 100ml/3.4 fl oz). Tube packaging is leak-resistant and travel-safe.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Stratia Night Shift is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains retinol, a vitamin A derivative. All retinoids — including over-the-counter retinol — are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic risk (risk of developmental harm to the fetus). Stratia explicitly states on their website and product page: "Night Shift is NOT recommended for those who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding." If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and seeking anti-aging or skin-brightening benefits, consider products with bakuchiol (a plant-based retinol alternative), niacinamide, vitamin C, or azelaic acid, which are considered safer during these periods. Always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before starting any active skincare during pregnancy.
Not fully — use with caution if you have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). Night Shift contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast: stearic acid, oleic acid-rich Sclerocarya birrea (marula) seed oil, Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, cholesterol, and glyceryl stearate are all potential malassezia food sources. If your fungal acne is currently active and severe, consider a formula without these fatty acids. That said, the amounts in Night Shift are moderate, and many users with fungal acne-prone skin have used it without issues. Patch testing for 1–2 weeks before full use is strongly recommended.
Not on the same night. Stratia recommends against mixing Night Shift with other potentially irritating actives like AHAs (glycolic, lactic, mandelic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or additional retinoids. Combining retinol with acid exfoliants significantly increases the risk of irritation, compromised barrier function, and redness. Use vitamin C and AHA/BHA in the mornings or on alternate nights. If you use a vitamin C serum, apply it in your AM routine. If you use an AHA/BHA exfoliant, use it 2–3 nights per week on the nights you are not using Night Shift. Never use both on the same evening, especially when first introducing retinol. Hydrating and occlusive ingredients are fine to layer with Night Shift.
Night Shift is formulated for all skin types, but it is particularly exceptional for dry and sensitive skin. Its rich cream base with ceramides, squalane, marula, and panthenol provides the kind of barrier-strengthening nourishment that makes retinol tolerable for people who have previously struggled with the ingredient. Dry skin types that have been put off retinol by peeling and tightness will find Night Shift a much more comfortable experience. Normal, combination, and mature skin types also fare very well. Very oily skin types may prefer a lighter retinol serum format, though many oily-skin users report Night Shift absorbs without greasiness. It is not recommended for those with active fungal acne as a primary concern.
Results depend on the concern being treated. You will notice softer, more hydrated skin within the first 1–2 weeks from the moisturizing base ingredients alone. Improved skin texture and early brightening typically become visible around weeks 3–4 as retinol accelerates cell turnover. Visible fading of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and pore refinement generally begins around the 2–3 month mark. The most significant anti-aging results — reduction in fine lines, firmer skin from increased collagen — typically require 4–6 months of consistent nightly use. Retinol is a long-term investment: the longer and more consistently you use it, the more profound the cumulative results become. Most dermatologists recommend using a retinol for at least 12 weeks before assessing efficacy.
Night Shift is a night cream, so it belongs exclusively in your PM (evening) routine. It should be applied as the last moisturizing step — after cleansing, toning (if used), and any water-based serums or treatments. It replaces your regular evening moisturizer; you do not need to apply a separate moisturizer on top unless your skin is very dry. Do not use Night Shift in the morning, as retinol degrades in UV light and increases photosensitivity. The next morning, always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher as the final step of your AM routine to protect your skin and the results of your retinol treatment.
Night Shift has an overall comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5, making it low risk for most skin types. Most ingredients are non-comedogenic: squalane (0/5), dimethicone (1/5), glycerin (0/5), and ceramides pose essentially no pore-clogging risk. Sclerocarya birrea (marula) seed oil is the ingredient with the highest potential (rated 3–4/5) due to its high oleic acid content, but it appears at a moderate concentration in the formula. The retinol itself actually helps combat comedones over time by normalizing keratinization and pore cell turnover. The majority of user reviews report no new breakouts, and many users with acne-prone skin report improved skin with continued use.
Night Shift has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Retinol is an unstable active ingredient that degrades with exposure to air, light, and heat — the encapsulation in a lipid sphere significantly improves stability, but the 12-month window ensures you are using the product at optimal potency. To maximize shelf life: store in a cool, dry location away from sunlight; keep the cap tightly closed between uses; consider refrigerating the product (optional, but extends active ingredient stability). At the recommended application of a pea-sized amount nightly, a 50ml tube will typically last 4–6 months when used daily, well within the 12-month PAO window.
Verdict: Stratia Night Shift is one of the best-formulated beginner retinol products on the market at its price point. By combining 0.15% encapsulated retinol with a clinically-relevant ceramide complex (NP + AP + EOP), Centella asiatica, squalane, and panthenol, Stratia has created a product that delivers genuine anti-aging benefits while actively counteracting the irritation and barrier disruption that makes retinol difficult for many people to use consistently. At $30 for 50ml, it represents outstanding value in a product category where many competitors charge significantly more for inferior formulations. The only meaningful limitations are its unsuitability during pregnancy (unavoidable with any retinoid), its low-to-moderate potential concern for active fungal acne, and the relatively gentle 0.15% concentration that experienced retinol users may eventually outgrow. For the vast majority of users — particularly those new to retinol, those with dry or sensitive skin, and anyone seeking a fragrance-free, science-first formulation — Night Shift is an exceptional choice that lives up to its reputation.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil
Humectant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Polydecene
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|