Peptide Serum
Peptide Serum
Product Description
Product overview
By Q + A — A lightweight, fast-absorbing water-based serum packed with Tripeptide-29, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate), and Magnesium PCA to visibly firm skin, boost hydration, smooth fine lines, and restore a youthful glow. Fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free. Made in the UK with 99.4% naturally derived ingredients.
Pure Tripeptide-29 — Collagen Support
Tripeptide-29 is synthesised via modern peptide synthesis (non-animal, non-GMO) for exceptional purity — available as a concentrated powder unlike most diluted peptide solutions, allowing higher effective concentrations in the formula.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPure Tripeptide-29 — Collagen Support
Tripeptide-29 is synthesised via modern peptide synthesis (non-animal, non-GMO) for exceptional purity — available as a concentrated powder unlike most diluted peptide solutions, allowing higher effective concentrations in the formula.
Sodium Hyaluronate — Deep Hydration
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates the upper skin layers to attract and bind moisture, visibly plumping fine lines and keeping skin soft and supple all day.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate — Stable Vitamin C
A stable, non-irritating Vitamin C derivative that brightens uneven skin tone, helps fade post-blemish marks, and shields skin from free radical damage without the instability issues of L-Ascorbic Acid.
Magnesium PCA — Skin Energiser
A supercharged mineral complex combining magnesium and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid. Supports the skin's natural moisture factor (NMF), reduces oxidative stress fatigue, and promotes a revitalised, glowing complexion.
Aloe Vera + Honeysuckle Extracts — Soothing Antioxidants
Aloe Barbadensis calms inflammation and delivers gentle hydration, while dual Lonicera (Honeysuckle) extracts provide natural antimicrobial and antioxidant protection to keep skin clear and resilient.
Natural Preservation System — No Parabens
Preserved with Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Levulinate, Glyceryl Caprylate, and Sodium Anisate — a multi-component natural system that keeps the formula stable and safe without synthetic preservatives.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen actives. All ingredients at used concentrations are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, which is a fermented ingredient that may feed Malassezia yeast in susceptible individuals. Those with confirmed fungal acne should patch test carefully or seek an alternative.
Water-based, oil-free formula with no known pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Xanthan Gum and Biosaccharide Gum-1 score 0/5 comedogenically. Very unlikely to cause breakouts.
Completely fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and free from known common allergens. Dermatologically tested formula suitable for reactive skin. Always patch test on first use.
100% vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Q+A never tests on animals and does not distribute to territories requiring animal testing. COSMOS-certified ingredient suppliers.
Can be layered with retinol (apply peptide serum first, retinol second) and AHAs. The low-level Lactic Acid in this formula acts as a pH adjuster, not a primary exfoliant, so irritation risk when combining is minimal.
Contains Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP), a stable Vitamin C derivative. SAP is compatible with most actives including niacinamide, peptides, and hyaluronic acid without the instability concerns of pure L-Ascorbic Acid.
Formula is very gentle and free from common irritants. However, Propylene Glycol (high on the list) can occasionally irritate very sensitised or compromised skin barriers. Patch test before applying to the face if you have active eczema or rosacea.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTripeptide-29 ActivePromising
A synthetically produced, high-purity peptide that mimics the Pro-Hyp-Gly sequence found in collagen. Designed to signal fibroblast cells to increase collagen type I synthesis, helping to visibly reduce fine lines, improve firmness, and support skin renewal over time.
- Mechanism: Tripeptide-29 is the Pro-Hyp-Gly sequence — the primary repeating unit of collagen — which may act as a bio-signal for collagen synthesis
- Purity Advantage: Produced via modern peptide synthesis (non-animal, non-GMO), yielding a pure powder unlike most peptides sold as diluted solutions, enabling higher effective concentrations
- In-Vitro Data: Manufacturer's lab tests show 3% Tripeptide-29 increased collagen type I synthesis by 400% within 48 hours in cell culture
- Limitation: No published human clinical trials available; efficacy on living skin remains promising but not yet clinically proven
Sodium Hyaluronate HydratorProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular weight for better skin penetration. Capable of binding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, it delivers intense, sustained hydration to the upper skin layers, reducing the appearance of dehydration lines and improving skin plumpness.
- Molecular Size: Smaller molecule than pure hyaluronic acid, allowing penetration into the stratum corneum beyond just surface hydration
- Function: Humectant — draws atmospheric and deeper moisture to the skin surface, maintaining the skin's natural moisture factor (NMF)
- Evidence: Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm hyaluronate's hydration efficacy, reduced fine lines, and improved skin elasticity with regular use
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) BrightenerProven
A stable, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative that does not oxidise easily like pure L-Ascorbic Acid. Converts to active Vitamin C within the skin to inhibit melanin production, brighten skin tone, support collagen synthesis, and neutralise free radicals from UV and pollution exposure.
- Stability: Highly stable compared to L-Ascorbic Acid — does not yellow or degrade easily upon air/light exposure
- Antiacne Evidence: Studies have shown SAP at 1% to be effective in reducing acne lesions, making it beneficial for blemish-prone skin
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity to reduce melanin synthesis and fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Trade-off: Less potent than L-Ascorbic Acid or Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate for collagen stimulation and anti-wrinkle efficacy
Magnesium PCA EnergiserProven
A unique mineral complex combining magnesium (an essential cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions) with PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid), a key component of the skin's Natural Moisturising Factor. Helps combat skin fatigue, supports cellular energy metabolism, and reinforces the skin barrier.
- NMF Component: PCA is naturally found in the skin and is a major humectant in the stratum corneum, contributing to moisture retention
- Anti-Fatigue: Magnesium supports mitochondrial function and cellular energy production, reducing signs of stress-related skin fatigue
- Skin Barrier: Magnesium plays a role in ceramide synthesis, supporting the lipid barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder SoothingProven
Dehydrated aloe vera juice reconstituted in the formula. Provides anti-inflammatory, humectant, and skin-soothing properties. Rich in polysaccharides, vitamins, and antioxidants that calm redness, support wound healing, and provide a layer of gentle hydration.
- Anti-inflammatory: Aloesin and other compounds inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, reducing skin inflammation and irritation
- Hydration: Polysaccharides form a breathable film on skin that slows moisture evaporation
- Research-Backed: Clinical studies confirm topical aloe vera reduces UV-induced erythema and supports collagen synthesis
Lonicera Caprifolium + Lonicera Japonica Extracts AntioxidantPromising
Dual extracts from Honeysuckle flowers providing natural antimicrobial and antioxidant protection. Rich in chlorogenic acid, luteolin, and quercetin — polyphenols that scavenge free radicals and support the preservation of the formula naturally.
- Antimicrobial: Chlorogenic acid and luteolin show broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, supporting skin microbiome balance
- Antioxidant: High DPPH radical scavenging activity comparable to some synthetic antioxidants
- Natural Preservative Role: Often used in synergy with other natural preservation ingredients to extend formula stability
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate PreservativePromising
A natural preservative derived from radishes fermented with Leuconostoc kimchii, the same lactic acid bacteria used to make kimchi. During fermentation, antimicrobial peptides are produced that inhibit pathogen growth, making it one of the more effective natural preservation alternatives.
- Mechanism: Secretes peptides with antimicrobial activity against bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli
- Recommended Use: Effective alone at 2–4% or in synergy — less potent than parabens or phenoxyethanol but a clean-beauty preferred choice
Glycerin + Betaine HumectantsProven
A powerful humectant duo. Glycerin draws water into the skin from the environment and deeper layers, while Betaine (from sugar beets) provides osmotic balance, reduces irritation potential of other actives, and adds a silky skin feel without greasiness.
- Glycerin: One of the most well-studied hydrating ingredients — increases stratum corneum water content and reduces TEWL in peer-reviewed research
- Betaine: Acts as an osmoprotectant and anti-irritant; improves tolerance to active ingredients in the formula
22 ingredients
Water, Propylene Glycol, Betaine, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Sodium Phytate, Glycerin, Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract, Sodium Levulinate, Tripeptide-29, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Magnesium PCA, Lactic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Cocoyl Proline, Sodium Anisate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, dry skin before moisturiser. Use AM and/or PM. Always follow with SPF in the morning. Pairs perfectly with Q+A Collagen Face Cream.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, SPF, and daily impurities. Pat dry with a clean towel — do not rub.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a hydrating or balancing toner, apply it now. Allow it to absorb for 30 seconds before proceeding. This step is optional but can enhance serum absorption.
Dispense & Apply the Serum
Squeeze 2–3 drops (approximately 0.5ml) onto fingertips. Gently press and pat the serum across the face and neck, focusing on areas with fine lines or dullness. Do not rub harshly.
Allow to Absorb
The lightweight gel-serum absorbs within 20–30 seconds. Wait until the serum feels dry to the touch before layering additional products to avoid pilling.
Follow with Moisturiser
Apply your regular moisturiser to seal in the serum's active ingredients and add an additional layer of hydration. Q+A recommends their Collagen Face Cream as a complementary moisturiser.
Morning: Always Apply SPF
Finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50. Vitamin C can increase photosensitivity slightly, and SPF protects your skin investment. Skipping SPF will reduce the anti-ageing benefits of the serum.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to target fine lines and early signs of ageing
- You have normal, oily, combination, or sensitive skin
- You need a lightweight serum that layers well under moisturiser and SPF
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean-beauty formulations
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and looking for a safe anti-ageing serum
- You want an affordable entry point into peptide-based skincare
- You want to brighten dull skin without irritating Vitamin C derivatives
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — fermented ingredients may be triggering
- You need a high-potency retinol or clinical-strength peptide formula for advanced ageing
- You prefer a rich, deeply moisturising serum — this is lightweight and may not suffice for very dry skin without a heavier moisturiser on top
- You have a known sensitivity to Propylene Glycol
- You want a larger-format bottle for better value
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCompletely oil-free water-based formula absorbs instantly without adding shine, greasiness, or congestion. Ideal for oily skin that still needs anti-ageing actives.
Glycerin, Hyaluronate, and Betaine provide meaningful hydration, but very dry skin types will benefit most from layering a richer moisturiser or face oil on top of this serum.
The gel texture balances perfectly across T-zone and drier cheek areas — hydrating where needed without overloading oilier zones.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and dermatologically tested. Betaine acts as an anti-irritant to improve tolerance. Patch test recommended for those with Propylene Glycol sensitivity.
Comedogenic rating 1/5, oil-free, and non-pore-clogging. SAP Vitamin C may help reduce blemish marks. Note: fermented ingredient may be problematic for confirmed fungal acne — patch test advised.
Designed specifically for this skin type. Tripeptide-29, Hyaluronate, Magnesium PCA, and Vitamin C work synergistically to address firmness, hydration, brightness, and fine lines simultaneously.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Hydration & Glow
Most users report noticeable improvement in skin hydration and a healthier, more luminous complexion within the first 1–2 weeks of daily use. Skin feels softer, plumper, and more refreshed after each application.
85% noticedImproved Firmness & Texture
With consistent daily use, skin begins to feel measurably firmer and smoother. Fine surface lines associated with dehydration start to appear softened. Skin texture feels refined and more even to the touch.
72% noticedVisible Fine Line Reduction
The collagen-supporting action of Tripeptide-29 becomes more apparent. Users report visible softening of fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Brighter, more even skin tone as Vitamin C reaches full activity.
60% noticedSustained Anti-Ageing Results
Long-term users report maintained skin firmness, sustained hydration, and a noticeably more youthful, energised complexion. Best results are maintained with continuous twice-daily use as part of a consistent routine.
55% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Absorbs instantly with no sticky or greasy residue
- Completely fragrance-free — great for sensitive skin
- Multi-active formula at an accessible price point
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe anti-ageing serum
- Layers seamlessly under all moisturisers and SPFs
- Clean, vegan, cruelty-free with natural preservation
- Visibly improves skin hydration and glow within days
- 99.4% naturally derived ingredients; UK-made
Criticized
- Small 30ml bottle — limited longevity relative to price
- Tripeptide-29 efficacy data is in-vitro only; lacks human clinical studies
- Not ideal as the sole moisturiser for very dry skin
- May not suit those with confirmed fungal acne due to fermented ingredient
- Occasional reports of off-smell in Amazon stock (likely storage issue)
- Propylene Glycol high in formula — can irritate compromised skin barriers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 + Palmitoyl Oligopeptide) — among the most clinically studied peptides available. Comparable price bracket, though creamier texture more suited to dry skin. Less brightening action (no Vitamin C) but stronger peptide evidence base.
Packs multiple clinically researched peptides (Matrixyl 10%, Argireline, GHK-Cu) into a water-serum base. Stronger peptide stack overall, but thinner texture and sometimes reports of pilling. No built-in Vitamin C. Free from fragrance, alcohol, silicones.
Contains copper tripeptides and collagen-supporting peptides in a lightweight water-based serum. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and fast-absorbing — similar sensory profile to Q+A. Less comprehensive multi-active stack but excellent value for the peptide content.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEQ+A Peptide Facial Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging for confirmation. Discard if colour, smell, or texture changes noticeably.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid bathroom storage where steam and temperature fluctuations can accelerate degradation. A bedroom drawer or cabinet is ideal.
Glass dropper bottle with rubber bulb pipette. The glass bottle, glass pipette tube, and plastic cap are 100% recyclable. The rubber bulb is currently not recyclable. Store upright to prevent leakage.
Yes — 30ml bottle is under the 100ml liquid carry-on limit for air travel. Keep upright in luggage to prevent leakage from the dropper seal.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — Q+A Peptide Facial Serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical UV filters, or high-dose essential oils. The key actives — Tripeptide-29, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), and Magnesium PCA — are all considered safe at cosmetic use concentrations. As always, consult your midwife or GP before introducing new products during pregnancy.
Use with caution if you have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, which is a fermented ingredient that may theoretically feed Malassezia yeast in susceptible individuals. There are no fatty acids, polysorbates, or known Malassezia-triggering esters in the formula, so many people with mild fungal acne tolerate it fine. Patch test on a small area of the jaw or neck for 1–2 weeks before applying to the full face if you are concerned.
Yes, this serum is compatible with most actives. It already contains Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C) and a small amount of Lactic Acid (as a pH adjuster), so it is an ideal companion to a broader routine. When combining with retinol: apply this serum first (thinnest to thickest), allow it to absorb, then apply retinol. Peptides and retinol are complementary ingredients with no known conflict. When using with stronger AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid toners), apply the exfoliant after and monitor for any irritation during the adjustment period.
Q+A Peptide Serum is suitable for all skin types but excels for oily, combination, and mature skin. Its oil-free, lightweight gel texture makes it perfect for those who want anti-ageing actives without any heaviness. Dry skin types will benefit but should layer a richer moisturiser on top. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well given its fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and dermatologically tested formula — though those with Propylene Glycol sensitivity should patch test. It is especially recommended as an anti-ageing serum for those with mature skin who want visible firming and brightening results.
Hydration and glow improvements are typically visible within the first 1–2 weeks of daily use. Improvements in skin firmness and texture generally become noticeable from weeks 3–4. Visible reduction in fine lines and a more even skin tone typically requires 6–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. For best anti-ageing results, continue use for at least 3 months. Results improve significantly when the serum is paired with daily SPF and a compatible moisturiser.
Apply Q+A Peptide Serum as your serum step — after cleanser and toner, and before moisturiser. Follow the general principle of thinnest to thickest consistency. In the morning, always follow with SPF after your moisturiser. In the evening, you can apply it before or after other serums depending on their textures. If using retinol, apply the Peptide Serum first (as it is lighter and water-based), then retinol, then moisturiser.
No — Q+A Peptide Serum has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is entirely water-based and oil-free, with no heavy emollients, waxes, or known pore-blocking ingredients. Xanthan Gum and Biosaccharide Gum-1 (the texture agents) both rate 0/5 comedogenically. Real-world reviews from acne-prone and oily skin users consistently report no breakouts from this product.
Q+A Peptide Serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within 12 months for optimal efficacy and safety. Store away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. If you notice any change in colour, smell, or texture before the 12-month mark, discontinue use. Using 2–3 drops per application twice daily, a 30ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with regular use.
Verdict: The Q+A Peptide Facial Serum is an impressive clean-beauty anti-ageing serum that punches well above its price point. With a thoughtfully assembled multi-active formula — pure Tripeptide-29, Sodium Hyaluronate, stable Vitamin C (SAP), and Magnesium PCA — it covers hydration, collagen support, brightening, and skin energising in a single lightweight, fast-absorbing product. The fragrance-free, oil-free, vegan, cruelty-free formulation makes it accessible to virtually all skin types, including sensitive skin and those who are pregnant. The main limitations are the 30ml bottle size (which runs out relatively quickly), the preliminary nature of Tripeptide-29 human efficacy data, and a small caution for fungal-acne-prone users due to the fermented preservative. For anyone seeking an affordable, clean, multi-benefit anti-ageing serum that genuinely delivers on hydration and glow — and a credible foundation for firming over time — Q+A Peptide Serum is an outstanding choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Phytate
Chelating Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract
Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
|
|