Oat Cleansing Balm
Oat Cleansing Balm
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, nourishing balm-to-oil cleanser formulated with 3% Oat Kernel Oil and 1% Colloidal Oatmeal to dissolve makeup, SPF, and impurities without stripping the skin barrier — ideal for sensitive, dry, and reactive skin types seeking effective daily cleansing.
3% Oat Kernel Oil
Rich in ceramides and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that actively nourish the skin barrier while breaking down makeup and SPF — cleansing and conditioning happen simultaneously.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3% Oat Kernel Oil
Rich in ceramides and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that actively nourish the skin barrier while breaking down makeup and SPF — cleansing and conditioning happen simultaneously.
1% Colloidal Oatmeal
Clinically recognized skin protectant that soothes redness and irritation. Anti-inflammatory beta-glucan content helps calm reactive and eczema-prone skin during the cleansing step.
Dual-Use: Mask Mode
Leave on for 10 minutes as a nourishing face mask. Clinically proven to boost moisture levels, making it a 2-in-1 cleanser and hydrating treatment for extra-dry skin days.
Balm-to-Milk Emulsification
Solid balm melts on contact with dry skin into a smooth oil, then transforms into a milky emulsion when water is added — rinsing away cleanly without a heavy residue.
Double Cleanse First Step
Oil-based formula is purpose-built as the first step in a double cleanse, effectively dissolving waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, and stubborn SPF before a water-based second cleanser.
Clean & Ethical Formula
Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oil, and artificial fragrance. Vegan Society certified, Leaping Bunny cruelty-free, and made by a B Corp brand with carbon-net-zero commitments.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEConfirmed safe by The INKEY List. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Suitable throughout all trimesters and while breastfeeding.
Contains Sweet Almond Oil, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil, Sorbitan Stearate, and Ascorbyl Palmitate — fatty acid-rich oils and esters that can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have fungal acne concerns.
Rated 2/5 overall. Sweet Almond Oil scores 2 but is present in a rinse-off formula, significantly reducing residual pore-clogging risk. Most people with oily/acne-prone skin tolerate it well.
Contains Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis) and PEG-60 Almond Glycerides — both derived from almonds (tree nuts). Not recommended for those with tree nut allergies.
No artificial fragrance, essential oils, parabens, or sulfates. Colloidal oatmeal is an FDA-recognized skin protectant with documented anti-inflammatory and barrier-supporting benefits.
Gentle enough to use around closed eyes for eye makeup removal. Apply carefully to closed lids. Avoid direct contact with open eyes to prevent blurred vision.
As a rinse-off first-step cleanser, it does not interfere with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs used later in your routine. No wait time needed before applying subsequent products.
Certified by The Vegan Society — contains no animal-derived ingredients. Also holds the Cruelty-Free International Leaping Bunny certification. No animal testing at any stage.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil 3%Proven
The star active: a lightweight oil cold-pressed from oat kernels, rich in ceramides (specifically ceramide 2) and omega fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, avenoleic). Unique among plant oils for its naturally occurring ceramide content, which mimics components found in the skin's own protective barrier. Provides emollient softness while actively dissolving oil-soluble impurities and makeup.
- Ceramide Content: Contains ceramide 2 (most abundant ceramide in human stratum corneum), supporting barrier repair and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Fatty Acids: Oleic acid (35–46%), linoleic acid (27–38%), palmitic acid (13–23%) — nourish and soften without greasiness.
- Antioxidant Activity: Naturally contains tocopherols (vitamin E) and avenanthramides that neutralize free radical damage.
- Clinical Note: Oat extracts are recognized by the FDA as skin protectants; oat kernel oil specifically has demonstrated efficacy in atopic dermatitis management studies.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour 1% Colloidal OatmealProven
Finely milled colloidal oatmeal — an FDA-approved Category I skin protectant (since 2003). Unlike regular oat flour, colloidal oatmeal is processed to a size that allows it to form a protective film on the skin. Contains beta-glucan polysaccharides, avenanthramides (unique anti-inflammatory phenolic compounds), proteins, lipids, and saponins.
- Beta-Glucan: Binds water and creates a moisturizing film on skin surface; stimulates collagen synthesis and wound healing in research models.
- Avenanthramides: Unique polyphenols exclusive to oats; shown in multiple studies to inhibit NF-κB pathway, reducing inflammatory cytokine production.
- Mild Exfoliation: Very gentle physical exfoliant when massaged — the floury particles help dislodge surface impurities without abrasive damage.
- Clinical Data: A double-blind RCT (Fowler et al.) demonstrated 1% colloidal oatmeal reduced TEWL and improved skin barrier function over 8 weeks.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil High — 1st ingredientProven
The primary base oil and emollient, listed first on the INCI — indicating it is the dominant ingredient by weight. Expressed from sweet almond kernels, it is a classic cosmetic oil prized for its silky skin feel and rich fatty acid profile. Acts as the key solvent that physically dissolves makeup, waterproof formulas, and SPF filters through the "like dissolves like" principle.
- Oleic Acid: 55–86% oleic acid (omega-9) — deeply penetrating emollient that softens the skin and enhances barrier function.
- Linoleic Acid: 7–35% linoleic acid (omega-6) — essential fatty acid that supports ceramide synthesis and restores barrier integrity.
- Vitamin E: Naturally rich in tocopherols (antioxidant), protecting lipids from oxidative degradation.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 2/5 — low-moderate on the scale. As a rinse-off ingredient, residual pore-clogging risk is significantly lower than in leave-on products.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Low — stabilizerProven
Natural vitamin E — a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the formula from oxidative rancidity and provides skin-conditioning benefits. Tocopherol (as opposed to tocopheryl acetate) is the bioactive form directly usable by skin. It supports collagen integrity and helps neutralize free radical damage from UV exposure and environmental pollution.
- Antioxidant Function: Scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS), preventing lipid peroxidation in both the formula and skin surface lipids.
- Barrier Support: Enhances stratum corneum lipid organization, improving barrier function and reducing TEWL.
- Synergy with Vitamin C: Ascorbyl Palmitate (vitamin C ester) is also in this formula — tocopherol and vitamin C work synergistically, each regenerating the other after antioxidant activity.
Biosaccharide Gum-4 Low — conditioningPromising
A bioferment-derived polysaccharide produced via microbial fermentation. Functions as a skin-identical glycan that mimics the natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Enhances the formula's skin-feel and leaves a light conditioning film that reduces post-cleanse tightness. Studied for its prebiotic-like effects on the skin microbiome and barrier reinforcement properties.
- Humectant Effect: Hydrophilic polysaccharide chains bind water molecules, providing residual moisturization even in a rinse-off product.
- Skin Microbiome: Biosaccharides may support beneficial skin microorganisms, contributing to a healthy microbiome balance during cleansing.
19 ingredients — listed in order of concentration (highest to lowest):
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil[3%], Candelilla Cera (Cire de Candelilla), Silica, Sorbitan Stearate, Tribehenin, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour[1% Colloidal Oatmeal], Aqua (Water/Eau), Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Lecithin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 (first cleanser) in a double-cleanse routine. If not double cleansing, use alone morning or evening on dry skin before any leave-on products.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with Dry Skin & Dry Hands
This is crucial. Apply to completely dry face and neck — do not pre-wet your skin. Oil-based formulas dissolve makeup most effectively on dry skin before any water is introduced.
Scoop a Raspberry-Sized Amount
Take approximately a raspberry-sized or quarter-sized amount from the tube using clean, dry fingertips. A little goes a long way — using too much can make rinsing more difficult.
Massage for 30–60 Seconds
Work the balm into the skin using circular motions. The warmth of your hands melts it into a smooth oil. Focus on areas with heavy makeup, around the nose, and hairline. For eye makeup, gently press to closed lids.
Add Warm Water to Emulsify
Wet your hands and add a splash of warm water to your face. The balm will transform into a white milky emulsion — this is the emulsification process that lifts impurities and prepares the formula for rinsing.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with warm water. Follow with a water-based second cleanser (e.g., gel or foam) as part of a double cleanse, especially if wearing heavy makeup or SPF. Pat dry.
Optional: Mask Treatment
For an extra hydration boost, apply a generous layer and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing. Clinically shown to increase skin moisture levels — ideal during dry weather or when skin feels tight and dehydrated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, sensitive, or reactive skin prone to tightness after cleansing
- You wear daily SPF or full-coverage, waterproof makeup
- You want to incorporate double cleansing into your routine
- You deal with eczema, rosacea, or irritated skin that reacts to foam cleansers
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare with minimal ingredient lists
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a confirmed-safe cleanser
- You want a budget-friendly alternative to luxury cleansing balms
- You love multi-tasking products (cleanser + mask in one)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a confirmed almond or tree nut allergy
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — formula contains FA-trigger oils
- You have very oily skin and find balm textures too heavy for AM use
- You prefer a one-step cleansing routine with thorough rinsing ease
- You want an exfoliating cleanser that treats acne or congestion chemically
- You are highly sensitive to benzyl alcohol or phenoxyethanol preservatives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe rich balm base with Sweet Almond Oil and Oat Kernel Oil replenishes barrier lipids during the cleansing step itself, leaving dry skin nourished and comfortable rather than tight or stripped.
Fragrance-free, sulfate-free formula with clinically proven colloidal oatmeal calms redness and irritation. An ideal choice for those with rosacea, eczema, or easily reactive skin.
Works well as part of a double cleanse. Best used as the first step only, followed by a gel or foam cleanser to manage the T-zone. May feel slightly rich during humid seasons.
A versatile daily cleanser that cleans effectively while maintaining the skin's natural moisture balance. Suitable for both AM and PM use without over-stripping or over-hydrating.
Can work as a first-step double cleanser, but the rich oil base may feel too heavy if used alone. Those with fungal acne should avoid. Follow with a salicylic acid cleanser for best results.
Results timeline
WEEK 6+Immediate Makeup Removal & Comfort
Visibly dissolves foundation, mascara, and SPF on first application. Skin feels soft and comfortable — not tight, stripped, or squeaky-clean. Redness from the day is visibly calmed.
98% noticed softer skin feel instantlyBarrier Feels Stronger, Less Reactivity
Consistent use of ceramide-rich Oat Kernel Oil begins reinforcing the skin barrier. Users with dry or sensitive skin typically report reduced tightness, fewer flare-ups, and a calmer complexion overall.
~78% noticed less post-cleanse drynessImproved Hydration & Skin Texture
Continued use of colloidal oatmeal and barrier-supporting oils improves overall skin texture. Skin looks more balanced, feels more resilient, and pores appear less congested with regular double cleansing.
~65% reported improved overall skin hydrationVisibly Healthier Skin & Barrier Restoration
The brand recommends allowing up to 6 weeks to see the full cumulative benefit of barrier repair. Consistent cleansing without stripping allows your skin's natural renewal cycle to operate optimally. Redness, dryness, and sensitivity are notably reduced for most users.
Brand benchmark: full results at 6 weeksRatings by platform
14K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — ~$13 for 150ml vs $28–$32 for competitors
- Effectively dissolves waterproof makeup and stubborn SPF
- Leaves skin soft, nourished, and comfortable — never stripped
- Clinically confirmed pregnancy & breastfeeding safe
- 100% fragrance-free — rare for a cleansing balm
- Dual-use as a 10-minute hydrating face mask
- Vegan Society certified + Leaping Bunny cruelty-free
- Allure Best of Beauty Award winner
- Minimal, clean 19-ingredient formula
- Great for sensitive and eczema-prone skin
Criticized
- NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains trigger oils
- Can leave a slight film if not rinsed thoroughly or used without a second cleanser
- Contains almond derivatives — not suitable for nut allergy sufferers
- May feel too heavy for very oily skin types, especially in AM
- Tube can occasionally get clogged at the opening
- Doesn't remove every trace of ultra-stubborn mascara alone
- Mild clinical/oaty scent may be off-putting to some (though fragrance-free)
- Formula may separate over time — requires shaking/stirring
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Balm-to-oil format with a similar rinse-off experience. Uses sunflower oil and mineral oil base instead of oat oil. Lacks colloidal oatmeal's anti-inflammatory benefits but is significantly cheaper. Good for basic makeup removal without sensitive-skin actives.
Affordable balm-to-oil cleanser with squalane and hyaluronic acid. Fragrance-free and gentle, though it lacks oat-specific ceramide and anti-inflammatory actives. Emulsifies cleanly and performs well on makeup removal. Good for sensitive skin.
Widely available drugstore balm that melts on contact and emulsifies with water. Uses glycerin for hydration rather than oat actives. Rinses cleanly, fragrance-free, and gentle on sensitive skin. Lacks the oat-derived ceramide and colloidal oatmeal benefits but is an excellent everyday balm.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the open-jar symbol printed on the product packaging for the exact PAO as listed by the manufacturer.
Store in a cool, dry place between 15–25°C (59–77°F). Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Note: the balm may melt in warm environments — if this occurs, allow to re-solidify at room temperature.
Squeeze tube with a flip-top cap. 150ml / 5 fl oz size. 100% recyclable packaging per the brand's B Corp sustainability commitment. A smaller 50ml / 1.7 fl oz travel size is also available.
The 50ml mini size (1.7 fl oz) is fully TSA-compliant (under 100ml liquid rule). The full 150ml size exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit and is best packed in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — The INKEY List has explicitly confirmed this product is safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters, which are the main ingredients avoided during pregnancy. The 3% Oat Kernel Oil and 1% Colloidal Oatmeal are both non-hormonal, non-systemic actives considered safe for use at all stages of pregnancy and lactation. As always, individual sensitivities can vary, so consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No — this product is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains several ingredients that are known to feed Malassezia yeast, including Sweet Almond Oil (high in oleic and linoleic fatty acids), Avena Sativa Kernel Oil, Sorbitan Stearate (a fatty acid ester), Ascorbyl Palmitate, and Lecithin. While it is a rinse-off product (which somewhat reduces residual risk), people with active fungal acne are generally advised to avoid leaving these ingredients on the skin even briefly. If you have fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe oil cleanser instead — look for options based on mineral oil or squalane, which Malassezia cannot metabolize.
Yes — absolutely. Because this is a rinse-off first-step cleanser, it does not remain on the skin long enough to interact with actives used later in your routine. Simply use the Oat Cleansing Balm as your first cleanse, rinse it away thoroughly, then proceed with your toner, vitamin C serum, retinol, or AHA/BHA products as usual. No special timing or wait period is required. In fact, gently cleansing with a non-stripping formula before applying potent actives can improve tolerance by maintaining an intact skin barrier, allowing actives to work more effectively with less irritation.
This cleanser is best suited to dry, sensitive, normal, and combination skin types, and is particularly well-regarded for those with eczema-prone, irritated, or reactive skin. The colloidal oatmeal and ceramide-rich oat kernel oil combination makes it uniquely effective at cleansing without disrupting the skin barrier. Those with oily skin can also use it — especially as the first step in a double cleanse — but should follow with a gel or foam cleanser to manage excess oil. It is not ideal for very oily skin as a standalone cleanser, and those with fungal acne should choose an alternative formula.
Immediate results — softer, more comfortable skin — are noticeable from the very first use. The barrier-reinforcing benefits from consistent use of ceramide-rich Oat Kernel Oil begin to accumulate within 1–2 weeks of regular use, with most users reporting reduced post-cleanse tightness and dryness within 7–14 days. The brand recommends allowing up to 6 weeks for the full cumulative skin barrier improvement, as it takes time for the skin's natural renewal cycle to operate with a consistently healthy foundation. Visible reduction in redness and sensitivity is commonly reported by weeks 3–4 in users with reactive or sensitized skin.
The Oat Cleansing Balm belongs at the very start of your skincare routine as Step 1, used on dry skin before any other product. In a double cleanse, it goes before your second (water-based) cleanser. In a single-step cleansing routine, it can be used alone followed by the rest of your skincare. The brand's suggested order after cleansing: hydrator → treatments (serums) → moisturizer → SPF (AM only). Because it is a cleanser that is fully rinsed away, it does not affect the order or efficacy of any leave-on products applied afterward.
The overall comedogenic rating is 2/5 (low). The primary oil, Sweet Almond Oil, has a comedogenicity score of 2 on a scale of 0–5, which is considered low-moderate. Crucially, this is a rinse-off product — the oils do not remain on the skin long enough to significantly clog pores in the way a leave-on oil would. Many people with oily and acne-prone skin use and tolerate it well. However, if you have highly congestion-prone skin that reacts even to rinse-off oils, patch test first. The formula contains no silicones, mineral oil, or other strongly comedogenic ingredients.
The period after opening (PAO) is 12 months — check the open-jar symbol on the packaging for the exact timeframe. The full 150ml size, when used twice daily (a raspberry-sized amount each time), typically lasts approximately 3–4 months before running out, meaning you will naturally use the entire product well within its 12-month PAO. Store in a cool, dry place (15–25°C) and avoid leaving in direct sunlight or warm bathrooms, as the balm texture can melt in heat. If the formula separates slightly in the tube, this is normal — give it a gentle shake or stir before use.
Verdict: The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm punches well above its price point, delivering a clinically thoughtful formula — 3% Oat Kernel Oil plus 1% Colloidal Oatmeal — that most comparable products at 2–3x the price cannot match ingredient-for-ingredient. It excels for dry, sensitive, and reactive skin types who need effective makeup removal without barrier disruption, and it stands out as one of the few fragrance-free, vegan-certified, pregnancy-safe cleansing balms available at a drugstore price. The dual-use mask function adds genuine bonus value. The main limitations are its unsuitability for fungal acne and the occasional rinse-off difficulty for very oily skin types. For anyone in the target demographic — sensitive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin — this is a near-perfect daily cleanser and an exceptional value for money.
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):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Avena Sativa Kernel Oil
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Candelilla Cera
Emollient
|
|