P-Tiox Wrinkle Modulating Peptide Serum
P-Tiox Wrinkle Modulating Peptide Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A physician-developed, peptide-powered anti-aging serum clinically proven to reduce the appearance of 9 types of expression lines — including crow's feet, forehead furrows, and nasolabial folds — while revealing glass skin radiance in as little as one week. Inspired by the science behind neurotoxin injections, P-TIOX delivers needle-free wrinkle correction for all skin types.
Patent-Pending Peptide Complex
A unique combination of 2% Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and 2% Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate — neuropeptides that mimic the muscle-relaxing effects of neurotoxin injections to visibly reduce contraction-driven wrinkles.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatent-Pending Peptide Complex
A unique combination of 2% Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and 2% Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate — neuropeptides that mimic the muscle-relaxing effects of neurotoxin injections to visibly reduce contraction-driven wrinkles.
Glass Skin Radiance in 1 Week
The 5% PHA and 5% Niacinamide Glass Skin Complex gently exfoliates, strengthens the barrier, and improves pore appearance and radiance — with visible improvement observed in clinical trials after a single week of use.
Physician-Tested Botox Companion
P-TIOX is physician-tested to synergize with neurotoxin injections, targeting areas of the face difficult to treat with injectables — like under-eye, lip lines, and marionette lines — and extending results between appointments.
Targets 9 Types of Expression Lines
Clinically proven across a 12-week study on 82 participants (ages 34–65, Fitzpatrick I–VI, 52% sensitive skin) to visibly reduce forehead lines, glabellar 11s, crow's feet, under-eye lines, cheek folds, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, inter-ocular lines, and global fine lines.
Seaweed-Sourced Hydration Booster
1% Laminaria Digitata Extract (brown seaweed) delivers intense hydration, soothes skin, and amplifies the wrinkle-correcting action of the peptide complex for long-lasting anti-aging benefits.
Science-Backed Clinical Results
In independent clinical testing, P-TIOX reduced expression line depth by up to 20.6% over 12 weeks — a statistically significant result backed by dermatologist evaluation across diverse skin tones and types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. P-TIOX contains Salicylic Acid and Alcohol Denat. While the salicylic acid concentration in this formula is low (topical use), most dermatologists and OB-GYNs advise avoiding salicylic acid-containing products during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
P-TIOX is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. Additionally, salicylic acid has known antifungal properties. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is entirely oil-free and water-based. No known pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients are present. Suitable for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin without risking breakouts.
52% of participants in the clinical study had sensitive skin, and no significant adverse reactions were reported. The fragrance-free, dye-free, and oil-free formula is designed to be gentle on reactive skin types.
P-TIOX can be layered with SkinCeuticals vitamin C antioxidant serums (C E Ferulic, Phloretin CF) in the AM. Apply vitamin C first, then P-TIOX. The formulas do not interfere with each other's efficacy.
P-TIOX can be used alongside retinol in your evening routine. Apply P-TIOX first (as the thinner product), then follow with your retinol or corrective cream. This combination can enhance visible anti-aging results synergistically.
While salicylic acid is present, it is used at a low concentration in this serum primarily as a supporting exfoliant, not as a primary active BHA treatment. Those with aspirin sensitivities should patch test or consult a dermatologist before use.
Clinically tested on Fitzpatrick skin types I through VI. The formula does not contain hydroquinone, kojic acid, or other ingredients that require special monitoring for darker skin tones. Suitable for all ethnicities and complexions.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAcetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline) 2%Proven
A synthetically derived signal peptide known as the "topical Botox" peptide. It works by inhibiting the SNARE protein complex — the same mechanism targeted by neurotoxin injections — to reduce the neuromuscular transmission that causes facial muscle contractions and expression-driven wrinkles.
- Mechanism: Competes with SNAP-25, a protein required for muscle contraction, thereby relaxing repetitive facial movements that deepen expression lines.
- Evidence: Multiple peer-reviewed studies show topical acetyl hexapeptide-8 reduces wrinkle depth by 17–27% after 30 days of twice-daily application.
- Targets: Forehead furrows, crow's feet, glabellar lines (11s), and perioral lines.
Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate (SYN-AKE) 2%Proven
A synthetic tripeptide that mimics the effect of Waglerin-1 (a peptide from snake venom) to block muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This prevents nerve signal transmission to facial muscles, resulting in visibly relaxed expression lines — particularly in dynamic wrinkle zones.
- Mechanism: Acts as a muscular antagonist at the neuromuscular junction, reducing the frequency and intensity of micro-muscle contractions that create permanent expression lines.
- Evidence: SYN-AKE has been shown in in-vitro studies to reduce skin contractions significantly. Clinical use has demonstrated wrinkle depth reduction of up to 52% with consistent use.
- Origin: Developed by Pentapharm (now DSM), this is a premium cosmetic ingredient used in luxury anti-aging formulas worldwide.
Gluconolactone (5% PHA) 5%Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) derived from glucose. PHAs are next-generation exfoliants that work similarly to AHAs but with larger molecular size, meaning slower, gentler penetration — ideal for sensitive skin. Gluconolactone exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, enhances radiance, and has potent antioxidant and chelating properties.
- Advantage over AHAs: The larger molecular size reduces irritation potential while delivering comparable exfoliation and skin texture improvements.
- Antioxidant effect: Gluconolactone chelates metal ions, protecting skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage.
- Radiance: Accelerates surface cell renewal, improving skin clarity, smoothness, and pore appearance within days.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 5%Proven
One of the most well-researched and versatile skincare actives available. At 5%, niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier by stimulating ceramide and fatty acid production, reduces the transfer of melanin to the skin surface (fading hyperpigmentation), minimizes pore appearance, and has anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Barrier support: Boosts synthesis of ceramides and other barrier lipids, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improving skin resilience.
- Pore minimizing: Regulates sebum production and reduces pore diameter visibility — complementing P-TIOX's glass skin goals.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, gradually fading discoloration and evening skin tone.
Laminaria Digitata Extract 1%Promising
An extract from brown seaweed (Laminaria digitata) found in cold North Atlantic waters. Rich in polysaccharides, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, Laminaria Extract is known to hydrate, soothe, and firm the skin while amplifying the wrinkle-correcting action of the peptide complex in this formula.
- Hydration: Contains natural polysaccharides that form a film on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and providing a plumping effect on fine lines.
- Synergy: SkinCeuticals clinical data shows Laminaria Extract enhances the efficacy of the peptide complex when combined in the P-TIOX formulation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Fucoidan, a polysaccharide found in brown seaweed, has documented anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
Adenosine ≤1%Proven
A naturally occurring purine nucleoside found in all living organisms. In skincare, adenosine has been documented to stimulate collagen synthesis, improve skin elasticity, and reduce wrinkle depth. It is recognized by the FDA and many international regulatory bodies as an effective anti-wrinkle active, and appears in SkinCeuticals' K-beauty-aligned formulations for skin firmness.
- Collagen support: Activates adenosine receptors in fibroblasts to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving long-term skin firmness.
- Wrinkle depth: Studies show topical adenosine reduces wrinkle depth by 20–30% after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
19 ingredients
Aqua / Water / Eau, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, Butylene Glycol, PEG/PPG/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Pentylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Glycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Salicylic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Phytic Acid, Adenosine, Sodium Benzoate, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply P-TIOX after your antioxidant serum (e.g., C E Ferulic) and before moisturizer and sunscreen. In the PM, apply before corrective treatments like retinol. Always apply thinner serums first.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Begin with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities. If you use a toner or essence, apply it first and allow it to absorb completely before proceeding.
Dispense into Palm
Dispense 4–6 drops of P-TIOX serum into the palm of your hand. If applying to your neck as well, increase to 6–8 drops. Do not apply the dropper directly to the face to avoid contamination.
Dab onto Key Zones
Using your fingertips, dab the serum onto the forehead, cheeks, chin, and around the eye area. Focus extra attention on areas with visible expression lines such as crow's feet, the glabella (11s), and smile lines.
Blend Gently
Using upward strokes, blend the serum evenly across the entire face. Avoid tugging or rubbing. Allow the product to absorb for approximately 20–30 seconds before layering additional products.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF (AM)
In the morning, follow with your preferred SkinCeuticals moisturizer, then apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. In the evening, layer a retinol or corrective cream over P-TIOX for enhanced anti-aging results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have visible expression lines (forehead, crow's feet, smile lines, 11s)
- You want a non-invasive, needle-free alternative to Botox
- You already receive neurotoxin injections and want to extend results
- You're looking to achieve glass skin radiance and refined pore texture
- You have sensitive or reactive skin (fragrance-free, gentle formula)
- You want to start preventative anti-aging in your 20s or 30s
- You prefer clinically proven, dermatologist-backed skincare
- You need a lightweight serum that layers under makeup without pilling
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid — consult your doctor)
- You have a known aspirin or salicylate sensitivity
- You want instant, dramatic wrinkle elimination (results build over 4–12 weeks)
- You're on a tight budget (this is a premium cosmeceutical investment)
- You're looking for a heavy, occlusive moisturizing serum (this is very watery)
- You need a retinol or vitamin A treatment specifically
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESUltra-lightweight, water-based, and oil-free. Absorbs instantly without adding shine or heaviness. The PHA and niacinamide duo also helps regulate sebum and minimize pore appearance.
Provides meaningful hydration through glycerin and Laminaria Extract, but very dry skin may need a richer moisturizer layered over P-TIOX for maximum comfort, especially in cold or low-humidity climates.
The balanced, water-based formula adapts well across different facial zones. Mattifies oily areas while hydrating drier patches without causing congestion in the T-zone.
Fragrance-free and tested specifically on sensitive skin in clinical trials (52% of subjects). The PHA exfoliant is gentler than AHAs. Patch test first if you have highly reactive skin or rosacea.
Oil-free, fungal acne safe, and non-comedogenic. Low-level salicylic acid may provide mild anti-acne benefit. However, some users have reported initial breakouts — patch test recommended before full-face application.
Designed precisely for mature skin with established expression lines. The full peptide complex + PHA + Niacinamide + Adenosine combination addresses wrinkles, loss of firmness, uneven tone, and dullness holistically.
Results timeline
WEEK 12 (FULL CLINICAL RESULT)Immediate Hydration & Smoother Base
Skin feels immediately softer and more hydrated. The lightweight serum absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling prepped and smooth — a noticeable improvement in makeup application and skin texture.
90% noticed improved skin feelVisible Glass Skin Radiance & Pore Refinement
In SkinCeuticals' clinical study, skin smoothness, pore appearance, and overall radiance showed statistically significant improvement within the first week of twice-daily use. Many users describe a "filtered" or glassy quality to their complexion.
Clinically demonstrated in 7 daysNoticeable Fine Line Reduction
Expression lines — particularly crow's feet, forehead lines, and lip lines — begin to appear visibly softened. Skin texture continues to improve and discoloration starts to fade as niacinamide and PHA accumulate benefits.
~75% noticed visible improvementUp to 20.6% Reduction in Expression Line Depth
The full benefit of P-TIOX's peptide complex becomes apparent at the 12-week mark. All 9 types of expression lines are measurably reduced by dermatologist evaluation. Wrinkle depth decreases by up to 20.6% in clinical testing.
Clinically proven across 82 subjectsRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven with a real 12-week study (82 subjects, Fitzpatrick I–VI)
- Ultra-lightweight texture — feels like water, layers perfectly under makeup
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Visible glass skin radiance and pore refinement within one week
- Patent-pending neuropeptide complex — unique in the market
- Works in synergy with Botox/neurotoxins for enhanced results
- Targets expression lines that injectables cannot reach (lip lines, under-eye)
- High continuation rate — ~80% of clinical users repurchase
- Can be used AM and PM for double the corrective action
- Suitable for all skin tones and Fitzpatrick types
Criticized
- Premium price (~$168 for 30ml) may not suit all budgets
- Results for deep wrinkles require patience — full effect at 12 weeks
- Small bottle size; heavier users (full face + neck) may deplete faster
- Contains Salicylic Acid — not recommended during pregnancy
- Topical peptides cannot replicate the full muscle-relaxing effect of Botox
- A small minority of users experienced chin/jawline breakouts during initial use
- Contains Alcohol Denat. — may feel slightly drying for severely dry skin types
- Not vegan-certified by a third party (though formula appears animal-free)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains a higher 10% concentration of Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline) — the same hero peptide in P-TIOX. Lacks the Glass Skin Complex (PHA, Niacinamide, Laminaria) and SYN-AKE dipeptide, but offers the most affordable way to test neuropeptide skincare. Best used in conjunction with a separate niacinamide serum.
A multi-peptide booster (add a few drops to any serum or moisturizer) featuring matrixyl, argireline, and EGF-like peptides. Covers multiple anti-aging peptide pathways but does not include niacinamide, PHA, or seaweed extract. Less comprehensive but more versatile as an add-on.
A drugstore classic containing niacinamide, amino-peptides, and hyaluronic acid. Improves firmness, hydration, and overall skin texture. Less targeted for expression lines specifically (no SYN-AKE or Argireline) and includes fragrance, making it less suitable for sensitive skin. A solid everyday option at an accessible price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESkinCeuticals P-TIOX
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on packaging with "12M" to confirm. Discard after this period even if product appears unchanged.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not refrigerate unless directed. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations which can degrade peptides and active ingredients.
Comes in a 30ml glass dropper bottle. The dropper applicator allows precise dosing (4–6 drops per application). Avoid touching the dropper tip to skin to maintain product hygiene.
Yes — at 30ml (1 fl oz), the bottle meets TSA carry-on liquid regulations (under 100ml). The glass bottle is relatively compact. Keep upright to avoid dropper leakage in transit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQP-TIOX should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains Salicylic Acid — and while the concentration in this serum is low (used as a supporting exfoliant rather than a primary BHA treatment), most dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend avoiding all salicylic acid-containing products during pregnancy as a general precaution. It also contains Alcohol Denat., which is commonly considered low-risk topically but worth noting. The peptides themselves (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and SYN-AKE) are considered safe for external use and do not penetrate into the bloodstream. Always consult your healthcare provider or OB-GYN before introducing new skincare actives during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes, SkinCeuticals P-TIOX is considered fungal acne safe. The formula is completely free of fatty acids, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients — the primary culprits that can feed Malassezia yeast on the skin. Additionally, the formula contains Salicylic Acid, which has documented antifungal properties and may actually help inhibit fungal growth on the skin's surface. If you struggle with fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), this serum is among the safer options in the premium anti-aging category.
Yes, P-TIOX is designed to layer with other actives. In the morning, apply it after a Vitamin C antioxidant serum (such as C E Ferulic or Phloretin CF) and before your moisturizer and SPF — the two do not interfere with each other's efficacy. In the evening, apply P-TIOX first (as the thinner product), then follow with retinol or a corrective cream; combining peptides with retinol can actually enhance anti-wrinkle results synergistically. Because P-TIOX already contains a low level of Salicylic Acid (a BHA) and 5% PHA (Gluconolactone), you should avoid stacking additional high-concentration AHA or BHA exfoliants in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation or irritation. If using a retinol, start slowly and allow your skin to adjust.
P-TIOX is formulated for all skin types and tones. It performs particularly well for oily, combination, and sensitive skin due to its oil-free, fragrance-free, and lightweight watery formula. Mature skin with established expression lines benefits most from the full neuropeptide complex. Those with dry skin will find it effective but may want to follow with a richer moisturizer. It was clinically tested on Fitzpatrick skin types I through VI, including 52% of subjects with sensitive skin, with no significant adverse reactions. Acne-prone skin types should patch test first, as a small number of users reported initial breakouts in the chin/jaw area.
Results develop progressively with P-TIOX. Most users notice a smoother skin texture and enhanced radiance after the very first use, with pore refinement and glass skin glow visible within the first week — as confirmed by clinical evaluation. Fine line reduction becomes apparent between weeks 4 and 6 of consistent twice-daily use. The full wrinkle-correcting benefit of the neuropeptide complex is clinically demonstrated at 12 weeks, with expression line depth reduced by up to 20.6% in dermatologist-evaluated studies. For best results, commit to daily use for at least 3 months before judging the full anti-aging impact on deeper expression lines.
P-TIOX is a serum and should be applied after cleansing and toning. In your morning routine: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum → P-TIOX → Moisturizer → Sunscreen SPF 30+. In your evening routine: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → P-TIOX → Retinol or Corrective Cream → Moisturizer. When layering multiple serums, always apply thinnest to thickest consistency. Because P-TIOX is extremely lightweight and watery, it almost always goes on before other serums. It is recommended for both AM and PM use to maximize the cumulative peptide benefit.
No, P-TIOX is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The formula is entirely oil-free and water-based with no heavy occlusive ingredients, waxes, or fatty esters that are known to clog pores. The 5% Niacinamide and Gluconolactone (PHA) in the formula actually help regulate sebum production and improve pore appearance over time, making it a particularly good choice for those prone to congestion. While a small number of users have reported initial breakouts (possibly due to skin purging from the exfoliating PHA), the formula itself does not contain comedogenic ingredients.
P-TIOX has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The open-jar symbol on the packaging reads "12M," meaning you should use the product within 12 months of first opening it. When used twice daily at the recommended 4–6 drops per application for the full face (and neck if desired), the 30ml bottle typically lasts approximately 2–3 months for a single user. Store the bottle away from direct sunlight and heat to help preserve peptide stability and formula efficacy. Sodium Benzoate and Chlorphenesin serve as preservatives to maintain safety and stability during this period.
Verdict: SkinCeuticals P-TIOX is one of the most scientifically credible peptide serums available today. Its patent-pending neuropeptide complex — combining Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate — alongside 5% PHA, 5% Niacinamide, and 1% Laminaria Extract, offers a genuinely multi-dimensional approach to expression line correction that goes well beyond what most competing anti-aging serums provide. Backed by a real 12-week clinical study with statistically significant results, it earns its premium cosmeceutical positioning. The ultra-lightweight, fragrance-free formula makes it highly wearable for all skin types and ideal for layering. Its ability to target areas of the face that injectables cannot reach — and to synergize with Botox for those who use it — positions P-TIOX uniquely in the market. The main caveats: the premium price, the patience required for deep wrinkle results, and the caution for pregnancy. For anyone serious about non-invasive, clinically-backed anti-aging skincare, this serum is a worthy investment.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG/PPG/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin
Humectant
|
|