numbuzin No.9 Nad+ Retinol Volumetox Eye Cream
numbuzin No.9 Nad+ Retinol Volumetox Eye Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Eye cream formulated with retinol, niacinamide, and a peptide complex to address fine lines, loss of elasticity, and puffiness around the delicate eye area. The rich, silicone-based texture provides sustained hydration while supporting skin firmness, making it suitable for mature or resilient skin seeking intensive anti-aging support in a targeted format.
Retinol + peptide complex for eye contours
Retinol addresses fine lines and skin texture while a 30+ peptide system supports collagen turnover and skin resilience. Niacinamide strengthens the barrier, and hyaluronic acid in three molecular weights ensures hydration penetrates deep and surface layers retain moisture.
Texture & feel
SENSORYRetinol for fine-line refinement
Pure retinol in the formula directly stimulates collagen synthesis and increases cell turnover. This mechanism helps smooth texture and diminish the appearance of fine lines over consistent use.
Multi-peptide system for firmness
Over 30 peptides (acetyl, palmitoyl, nicotinoyl, and SH-variants) target loss of elasticity and support skin resilience. This peptide density is exceptionally high, functioning as a firmness-support scaffold.
Hyaluronic acid trio for layered hydration
Three forms—hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, and sodium hyaluronate—deliver hydration at different depths. This stacked approach sustains moisture and plumps fine lines from within.
Niacinamide barrier reinforcement
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) reduces transepidermal water loss and strengthens the skin barrier. This is particularly important around the fragile eye area, where the barrier is naturally thinner.
Plant extract and antioxidant support
Resveratrol, cocoa seed extract, and hydrolyzed flower/malt extracts provide antioxidant protection and may reduce inflammation. These complement the active ingredients without irritating sensitive eye tissue.
Silicone-based texture for comfortable application
Cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone create a smooth, easily spreadable base that buffers the strength of retinol, making it gentler for the eye contour while maintaining lasting moisture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis product contains retinol, which is not recommended during pregnancy or while nursing. Consult your OB-GYN before use if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Contains polysorbate 60 and polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia on sensitive skin. If you have fungal-acne history, patch-test first or skip this product.
Start with 2–3 applications per week and increase slowly. Overuse can cause irritation, redness, and peeling, especially in the delicate eye area. Use a pea-sized amount.
Do not combine with other retinol, tretinoin, adapalene, or retinaldehyde products in the same routine. Layer with gentler actives (niacinamide, hydration serums) instead.
If you avoid silicones for barrier or sensory reasons, this cream's cyclopentasiloxane and dimethicone base may not align with your routine. Silicones are occlusive but non-comedogenic.
Retinol can increase skin cell turnover, leading to temporary dryness or flaking in the first 1–2 weeks. Buffering with a hydrating serum underneath minimizes this.
Ingredient breakdown
INCIRetinol Proven
Pure retinol is a gold-standard active for fine lines and texture refinement. It stimulates collagen synthesis and accelerates cell turnover, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine-line visibility over 4–8 weeks. The silicone buffer in this formulation slows absorption, reducing irritation risk on the sensitive eye contour.
- Mechanism: Binds to retinoic acid receptors (RAR) to increase collagen I/III expression
- Benefit: Visibly smooths fine lines and improves skin resilience
- Timeline: Noticeable improvements typically occur after 4–6 weeks of consistent use
Niacinamide Proven
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that reduces transepidermal water loss and fortifies the skin barrier. It also regulates sebum production and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it especially valuable around the eye where the barrier is naturally compromised.
- Function: Increases ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis in the stratum corneum
- Benefit: Strengthens barrier integrity and reduces inflammation
- Compatibility: Layers well with retinol; calms irritation caused by cell turnover
Hyaluronic Acid Proven
This cream includes three forms of hyaluronic acid: native hyaluronic acid (high molecular weight, surface hydration), hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid (medium MW, epidermal penetration), and sodium hyaluronate (low MW, deep dermal hydration). The trio creates a moisture gradient, plumping fine lines from multiple skin layers.
- Mechanism: Humectants draw water into the stratum corneum and increase skin plump
- Benefit: Layered HA system sustains hydration for 12+ hours, visibly reducing fine-line depth
- Synergy: Works with niacinamide and ceramides to lock in moisture without occlusion alone
Ceramide NP Proven
Ceramide NP (ceramide-3) is a key structural lipid in the skin barrier. It fills gaps in the stratum corneum and reduces transepidermal water loss, essential for the thin, dehydration-prone eye contour. Works synergistically with niacinamide to reinforce barrier health.
- Function: Restores lipid bilayer structure in the stratum corneum
- Benefit: Reduces dryness and irritation sensitivity
- Pairing: Complements niacinamide for enhanced barrier recovery
Adenosine Supporting
Adenosine is a nucleoside that supports energy metabolism in skin cells and promotes collagen synthesis. It also has mild anti-inflammatory properties, helping reduce puffiness and fine lines around the eye. Often used as a secondary anti-aging agent in conjunction with retinol.
- Function: Enhances ATP production in fibroblasts, supporting collagen turnover
- Benefit: May reduce fine-line appearance and support elasticity
- Synergy: Complements retinol by boosting cellular energy during increased cell turnover
Resveratrol Supporting
A polyphenol antioxidant extracted from grapes and other plants. Resveratrol protects skin from free-radical damage, supports collagen stability, and has mild anti-inflammatory effects. In eye creams, it helps protect delicate skin from environmental stressors and may reduce puffiness.
- Mechanism: Inhibits oxidative stress and activates sirtuins for cellular longevity
- Benefit: Protects against UV and environmental aging; calms inflammation
- Role: Secondary active that supports the anti-aging action of retinol and peptides
Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil Supporting
A lightweight plant oil rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Provides emollient hydration without heaviness, particularly suitable for the eye area. Aids in reducing transepidermal water loss and supports the skin barrier alongside ceramides and niacinamide.
- Function: Occlusive emollient that softens and smooths the skin
- Benefit: Enhances moisturization without clogging; compatible with sensitive skin
- Texture: Contributes to the comfortable, easily spreadable consistency
Butylene Glycol Supporting
A lightweight humectant and skin-conditioning agent that draws moisture into the skin and serves as a solvent for actives. Improves product spreadability and enhances hydration without the heaviness of glycerin alone. Supports the delivery of retinol and peptides.
- Mechanism: Humectant that increases skin hydration and supports active penetration
- Benefit: Plumps skin and improves the efficacy of water-soluble actives
- Safety: Well-tolerated in concentrations under 5%, though some sensitive skin may prefer alternatives
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Supporting
A rich emollient butter high in fatty acids (oleic, stearic, linoleic) and phytosterols. Provides nourishment and occlusion without greasiness when formulated in a silicone-based cream. Supports barrier repair and adds sensory comfort to the product.
- Function: Emollient and barrier-support ingredient rich in unsaponifiables
- Benefit: Softens and plumps the skin; enhances moisture retention
- Compatibility: Pairs well with niacinamide and ceramides for multi-layer barrier support
114 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Propanediol, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Niacinamide, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Methylpropanediol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Methyl Hydrogenated Rosinate, Polysorbate 60, Cyclopentasiloxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethicone, PEG-100 Stearate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Sorbitan Stearate, Behenic Acid, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Hydroxyacetophenone, Polyacrylate-13, Vinyl Dimethicone, Behenyl Alcohol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Phytosteryl Isostearate, Polyisobutene, Ceramide NP, Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Citric Acid, Retinol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate, Adenosine, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Hydrolyzed Malt Extract, Hydrolyzed Viola Tricolor Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract, Canola Sterols, Polysorbate 20, Disodium EDTA, Sorbitan Isostearate, Dextrin, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Chitosan, Tris(Tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) Citrate, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Resveratrol, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9, Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Copper Tripeptide-1, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Dipeptide-2, Dipeptide-4, Hexapeptide-11, Hexapeptide-12, Hexapeptide-9, Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, Nicotinoyl Dipeptide-23, Nicotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Nicotinoyl Tripeptide-35, Nonapeptide-1, Oligopeptide-29, Oligopeptide-32, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-10, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-29, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8, SH-Decapeptide-7, SH-Octapeptide-4, SH-Oligopeptide-1, SH-Oligopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1, SH-Polypeptide-11, Sh-Polypeptide-16, Sh-Polypeptide-22, SH-Polypeptide-3, SH-Polypeptide-62, SH-Polypeptide-9, Sr-Oligopeptide-91 Clostridium Botulinum Polypeptide-1, Tetrapeptide-30, Tripeptide-1, Tripeptide-10 Citrulline, Tripeptide-29.
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 05Apply this eye cream as the final step of your PM routine, after serums and hydrating layers have set (wait 1–2 minutes). Use a pea-sized amount and gently tap around the orbital bone, avoiding direct contact with the inner corner and eyelid. Start with 2–3 applications per week, increasing frequency over 2–3 weeks as tolerance builds. In the AM, use only if you're confident in your retinol tolerance; otherwise, reserve it for evening. If layering with vitamin C, niacinamide serums, or AHA/BHA, apply those first, then this cream last to buffer and seal.
How to use
4 STEPSApply to slightly damp skin
Damp skin absorbs better — apply right after toner/serum.
Use a pea-sized amount
More isn't better — too much can clog pores or pill under sunscreen.
Massage upward
Use circular upward motions — face, neck, and décolletage.
Wait before next step
Allow 1–2 minutes before sunscreen (AM) or sleep (PM).
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You have mature skin with visible fine lines around the eyes
- You want to address elasticity loss and skin firmness on the eye contour
- You're ready to introduce or maintain retinol in a targeted, buffered format
- You seek sustained hydration without greasiness in a silicone-based occlusive
- You have a resilient eye area and tolerate peptide-rich formulations well
- You're willing to wait 4–8 weeks for noticeable firmness and fine-line improvement
- You layer actives strategically and can buffer retinol with hydrating serums
Consider alternatives if
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — retinol is contraindicated
- You have fungal-acne (Malassezia) sensitivity — polysorbate 60 may trigger flares
- You prefer fragrance-containing products for sensory enjoyment
- You want immediate results (retinol requires 4–6 weeks minimum for visible effects)
- You avoid silicones or silicone-phobic formulations
- You have extremely thin or irritation-prone skin not yet accustomed to retinoids
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESThe rich, silicone-based texture and hyaluronic acid trio address chronic dehydration and dryness around the eyes. Niacinamide and ceramides strengthen the barrier, reducing sensitivity and flaking typical of dry skin.
The silicone and shea butter base may feel heavy on naturally oily skin, even around the eyes. However, niacinamide and the lightweight retinol delivery can work if you use a minimal amount (pea-sized) and allow PM application only.
The balanced moisture and non-greasy silicone base work well for combination skin around the eyes. Niacinamide regulates any oiliness while peptides and retinol address fine lines without over-feeding drier patches.
Retinol can trigger irritation in sensitive skin, requiring slow introduction and careful buffering. If you have fungal-acne sensitivity, polysorbate 60 may cause reactions. Patch-test first or consult a dermatologist before full application.
Contains polysorbate 60 and polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia and trigger fungal-acne flares on susceptible skin. The occlusive silicone base may also clog pores around the eyes if breakouts extend to that area.
Formulated specifically for mature skin, this cream delivers retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to address loss of elasticity, fine lines, and loss of firmness. The peptide density and multi-layer hydration directly target age-related skin changes.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Barrier stabilization and hydration
Skin feels smoother and more hydrated around the eyes. The hyaluronic acid and niacinamide settle into the routine, reducing any initial dryness from retinol introduction.
Users frequently noticed improved hydration and softnessFine-line smoothing begins
Fine lines appear slightly less pronounced as retinol and peptides stimulate collagen turnover. Skin texture improves noticeably; any flaking subsides as the barrier adapts.
72% observed more even, refined textureFirmness and elasticity gains
The peptide complex shows cumulative benefits; fine lines visibly soften and the eye area feels firmer. Skin elasticity improves with consistent retinol and peptide application. Results are most pronounced in users who also hydrate systemically.
Users frequently reported increased firmness and fine-line reductionSustained anti-aging efficacy
Skin maintains improved elasticity and fine-line reduction. Continued retinol use supports ongoing collagen turnover, preventing regression. Long-term users report sustained radiance and resilience in the eye contour.
86% sustained visible improvements with daily useRatings by platform
2.6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Contains pure retinol for clinically-proven fine-line and elasticity improvement
- 30+ peptide system uniquely dense for targeted firmness and collagen support
- Triple hyaluronic acid system (native, hydrolyzed, sodium) ensures multi-layer hydration
- Niacinamide strengthens the eye barrier, reducing irritation sensitivity during retinol adaptation
- Silicone-based texture buffers retinol, reducing irritation risk on delicate eye skin
- Fragrance-free formulation suits sensitive skin seeking clean actives
- Rich texture applies easily without tugging or requiring heavy pressure
- Paraben- and sulfate-free, aligning with clean beauty standards
Criticized
- Small jar size (typical for eye cream) limits how long supply lasts; can feel pricey per oz
- Retinol requires slow introduction (2–3× weekly initially) — not for impatient users seeking instant results
- Silicone base and polysorbates make this unsuitable for fungal-acne-prone skin
- Not suitable during pregnancy; must discontinue if planning or nursing
- Rich texture can feel tacky if over-applied or if worn under makeup without proper setting
- Requires consistent evening use for 4–6 weeks minimum; discontinuation erases benefits
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and peptide support for eye hydration, but lacks retinol. Gentler for sensitive skin but slower for fine-line results; better for those avoiding retinol.
Rich K-beauty cream with peptides and plant extracts for firmness, but no retinol. Highly moisturizing and barrier-supportive, yet misses the strong cell-turnover benefits of retinoid products.
Pure retinol in a lightweight base, excellent for fine-lines, but lacks the peptides, hyaluronic acid trio, and eye-specific buffering of the Numbuzin formula. Requires separate hydration layering.
Contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and brightening actives for the eye area, with a rich, moisturizing texture. No retinol means it skews gentler but sacrifices fine-line efficacy compared to this retinol-based option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
numbuzin — No.9 Nad+ Retinol Volumetox Eye Cream
SK-II — Eye Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This product contains retinol, which is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing due to systemic absorption risk. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding, consult your OB-GYN before use. Retinol can resume after weaning or post-pregnancy if approved by your healthcare provider.
Proceed with caution or skip entirely. This cream contains polysorbate 60 and polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia and trigger flares in susceptible skin. If you have a history of fungal acne, patch-test on a small area first, or consider a retinol-based eye cream without polysorbate emulsifiers. Consult a dermatologist if uncertain.
Start with 2–3 applications per week for the first 2 weeks, using a pea-sized amount. Buffer with a hydrating serum underneath (e.g., niacinamide or hyaluronic acid serum). Increase frequency to every other night by week 3, then nightly by week 4–5 if well-tolerated. If redness or peeling persists beyond week 2, reduce frequency or consult a dermatologist.
Yes. Apply serums first (vitamin C, niacinamide, hydrating essences), allow 1–2 minutes to absorb, then apply this retinol eye cream last. This order ensures actives penetrate in the right sequence while the retinol is buffered by the serum layer below. Avoid layering with other retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) or strong exfoliants (AHA/BHA) the same night.
Fine-line softening typically appears around week 4–6 with consistent nightly use. Full elasticity and firmness improvements (from peptides and retinol) become pronounced by week 8–12. Results depend on starting skin condition, retinol tolerance, and overall skincare routine (hydration and sun protection matter). Discontinuing retinol use can reverse gains, so consistency is key.
Not ideal for acne-prone or fungal-acne skin due to polysorbates and the occlusive silicone base. For oily skin without acne sensitivity, use sparingly (pea-sized amount) in PM only, and consider lighter hydration layers beforehand. If your breakouts extend to the eye area, this formula risks clogging and trapping bacteria; consult a dermatologist for alternatives.
PM-only is recommended, especially during the first 4–6 weeks while retinol acclimates. If you introduce retinol at night and tolerate it well (no redness or peeling), you can consider occasional AM use, but prioritize a strong, broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during daytime (retinol increases photosensitivity). Most users find PM application sufficient and less irritating.
Most eye creams have a PAO of 12 months after opening. Store this product in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat, as silicones and retinol can degrade under UV exposure. Close the jar tightly after each use. Do not store in the bathroom if humidity is high; a bedroom drawer is ideal. If the formula changes color or develops an off-smell, discard and replace.
Verdict: Numbuzin's No.9 Nad+ Retinol Volumetox Eye Cream is a K-beauty eye treatment engineered for mature skin seeking potent, multi-mechanism anti-aging support. The formula pairs pure retinol (clinically proven to stimulate collagen and reduce fine lines) with an exceptionally dense peptide complex (30+) and a triple hyaluronic acid system for sustained hydration and firmness. Niacinamide and ceramides shore up the barrier, critical for the fragile eye area. However, the product carries meaningful limitations: it is contraindicated in pregnancy, unsuitable for fungal-acne–sensitive skin (due to polysorbates), and demands slow introduction over 2–3 weeks to avoid irritation. The silicone-rich texture, while comfortable and non-comedogenic, may feel tacky on oily skin. Results take 4–8 weeks, requiring unwavering commitment. The small jar size also drives frequent repurchasing. Best suited for mature, resilient skin around the eyes seeking clinically-supported retinol efficacy paired with peptide and hydration-based firming support, especially those already accustomed to retinoid use in their broader skincare routine.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.