pH Cleansing Gel Foam
pH Cleansing Gel Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A pH-balanced, probiotic-powered gel foam cleanser from Korean dermatological brand Dr.G. This gentle yet effective face wash lathers into a fine foam that removes daily impurities without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier — formulated with five beneficial bacterial strains, barrier-strengthening botanicals, and skin-brightening glutathione for a clean, comfortable finish suitable for everyday use on all skin types.
MultiProbio™ Complex
Five probiotic strains — including Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus, and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment — work to reinforce the skin barrier and maintain healthy microbiome balance during cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMultiProbio™ Complex
Five probiotic strains — including Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus, and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment — work to reinforce the skin barrier and maintain healthy microbiome balance during cleansing.
pH-Balanced at ~5.5
Formulated at a weakly acidic pH that matches the skin's natural acid mantle, preventing post-wash tightness and barrier disruption that alkaline cleansers cause.
Pollen Extract Hydration
Dr.G's proprietary Pollen Extract™ delivers deep moisture to leave skin feeling supple and smooth after every wash — no stripped, dry feeling.
Glutathione Brightening
A potent antioxidant peptide that inhibits melanin production and neutralizes free radicals, helping to gradually even skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots with regular use.
Filagrin Barrier Complex
Botanical oil unsaponifiables from olive, soybean, and wheat germ — combined with theanine and moringa extract — mimic filagrin's role in fortifying the skin's protective lipid barrier.
Multi-Surfactant Gentleness
Uses a blend of mild, sulfate-free surfactants (Potassium Laureth Phosphate, Potassium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate) that foam richly yet respect the skin's natural oils.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. The formula contains only pregnancy-compatible cleansing agents and botanical extracts. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate and Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, both fatty acid esters that may feed Malassezia yeast. Milk Lipids also present a concern. As a rinse-off cleanser with minimal contact time, the actual risk is low for most users, but those with confirmed fungal acne should proceed with caution.
The primary oils are present as "unsaponifiables" — the non-oil fraction with no comedogenic lipids. Coco-Glucoside and polyglyceryl esters are rated 0–1. Overall pore-clogging risk is very low.
Free from harsh sulfates (SLS/SLES), alcohol, parabens, and added fragrance compounds. The mild surfactant blend and near-skin-pH formula minimize irritation risk. Ophthalmologically tested.
As a rinse-off cleanser, it does not interfere with leave-on actives applied afterward. The pH-balanced formula won't deactivate vitamin C serums or disrupt AHA/BHA efficacy when used properly.
Contains Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil and Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil — both potential allergens (limonene, linalool). Amounts are trace-level in a rinse-off formula, but those with known citrus or lavender sensitivity should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin Top 3Proven
One of the most well-researched humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws moisture from the environment into the upper layers of the skin, preventing the post-wash dryness and tightness that many cleansers cause. It also supports the integrity of the skin barrier and enhances the penetration of other beneficial ingredients.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent, osmolyte
- Comedogenic rating: 0/5 — non-comedogenic
- Evidence: Numerous clinical studies confirm glycerin improves stratum corneum hydration; naturally present in healthy skin lipids
Bifida Ferment Lysate Mid-listProven
A biotechnology-derived probiotic ingredient obtained from the fermentation of Bifida bacteria (often with dairy). It has been extensively studied for its ability to reinforce the skin's natural defense system, reduce sensitivity, improve moisture retention, and restore microbiome balance disrupted by cleansing. It is the key probiotic in the MultiProbio™ complex.
- Clinical finding: Studies show Bifida Ferment Lysate reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improves barrier function
- Mechanism: Strengthens tight junctions between skin cells; modulates the skin's innate immune response
- Notable use: Hero ingredient in Estée Lauder's Advanced Night Repair at higher concentrations
Glutathione Low-listPromising
A naturally occurring tripeptide antioxidant found in every cell of the body. In skincare, glutathione is celebrated for its ability to inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, thereby reducing melanin production and helping to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It also scavenges free radicals, offering antioxidant protection during cleansing when skin is exposed to environmental stressors.
- Brightening mechanism: Switches melanin synthesis from dark eumelanin to lighter phaeomelanin
- Antioxidant role: Regenerates vitamins C and E within skin cells
- Evidence level: Promising — more data needed on rinse-off delivery efficacy vs leave-on formats
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate Mid-listProven
A natural preservative and skin-conditioning agent derived from radishes fermented with Leuconostoc kimchii bacteria — a strain used in traditional kimchi making. It produces antimicrobial peptides that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi, functioning as a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives while also delivering gentle probiotic benefits to the skin microbiome.
- Function: Natural preservative, antimicrobial, skin microbiome support
- Ecocert approved: Certified natural origin ingredient
- Benefit: Reduces reliance on synthetic preservatives like parabens or phenoxyethanol
Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract Low-listPromising
Derived from the "miracle tree" native to South Asia, moringa seed extract is rich in oleic acid, vitamins A, C, and E, and naturally occurring isothiocyanates. It provides antioxidant protection, supports collagen synthesis, and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. In this cleanser, it contributes to the Filagrin Barrier Complex along with other botanical unsaponifiables.
- Key actives: Moringine, moringinine, isothiocyanates, behenic acid
- Evidence: In vitro studies support anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity
- Skin benefit: Helps neutralize environmental pollutants on the skin surface
Olea Europaea Oil Unsaponifiables Low-listProven
The non-oil fraction of olive oil — the portion that doesn't convert to soap or fatty acids during processing. This fraction is rich in squalene, triterpene alcohols (including oleanolic acid), and sterols, which are structurally similar to skin lipids. Unlike the fatty acid portion of olive oil, the unsaponifiable fraction has a very low comedogenic risk and is excellent for barrier repair.
- Comedogenic rating: 0–1 (unsaponifiable fraction only)
- Key actives: Squalene, oleanolic acid, beta-sitosterol
- Function: Emollient, anti-inflammatory, barrier-mimicking lipids
Theanine Low-listPromising
An amino acid found naturally in green tea leaves. Theanine is a humectant that helps attract and hold water in the skin, contributing to improved hydration and a smoother skin texture. It also has mild calming properties and may support the skin's stress-response mechanisms, making it beneficial for reactive and stressed skin types.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning, antioxidant support
- Evidence: Shown to increase skin hydration markers in preliminary studies
- Bonus: May slightly improve skin firmness over time
Potassium Cocoyl Glutamate & Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate Top 5Proven
Amino acid-derived surfactants made from coconut oil and glutamic acid. These are among the gentlest cleansing agents available — they effectively lift dirt and sebum without disrupting the skin's acid mantle or stripping natural moisturizing factors. Biodegradable and approved for natural cosmetic formulations.
- pH range: Works at acidic pH, supporting the formula's ~5.5 target
- Irritation potential: Very low — well-tolerated by sensitive and reactive skin types
- Ecocert/COSMOS: Both grades approved for natural formulations
32 ingredients
Water, Potassium Laureth Phosphate, Glycerin, Potassium Cocoyl Glutamate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Aspartic Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Coco-Glucoside, Caprylyl Glycol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Disodium EDTA, 1,2-Hexanediol, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Maltodextrin, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Olea Europaea Oil Unsaponifiables, Glycine Soja Oil Unsaponifiables, Triticum Vulgare Germ Oil Unsaponifiables, Pollen Extract, Theanine, Milk Lipids, Glutathione
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEStep 1 in both AM and PM routines. In the evening, use after a first-cleanse oil or balm for makeup removal. Morning use only requires this single cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can strip the skin barrier and disrupt the formula's pH.
Pump & Lather
Dispense 1–2 pumps into the palm of your hand. Add a small amount of water and rub palms together to build a fine, creamy foam before applying to the face.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face and neck using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Avoid the immediate eye area. For sensitive or irritated skin, keep massage time to 30 seconds.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all foam is removed. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel — never rub.
Continue Your Routine
Immediately follow with toner or essence while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration. The pH-balanced finish means actives like vitamin C and AHAs will perform at their best.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, daily cleanser that doesn't strip skin
- Your skin feels tight or dry after washing
- You use retinol, AHAs, or other actives and need a non-disruptive cleanser
- You have sensitive, reactive, or barrier-compromised skin
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-irritant formulas
- You want brightening benefits (glutathione) built into your cleanser
- You love K-beauty probiotic skincare
- You are pregnant and want an active-free cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne and require strict Malassezia-safe products
- You wear heavy, long-wear makeup or SPF and need a stronger first cleanse
- You have very oily skin and feel this isn't cleansing enough (use as AM cleanser; add oil cleanser at PM)
- You have a known allergy to citrus, lavender, milk, or radish
- You are looking for a deep exfoliating cleanser with AHA/BHA
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAn ideal daily cleanser. Cleans thoroughly without over-drying or leaving an oily residue. Gentle enough for twice-daily use.
Glycerin, pollen extract, and barrier-supporting botanicals prevent the tight, parched feeling common after cleansing. Highly recommended for dry skin types.
Cleanses daily sebum and impurities well, but very oily skin may find it insufficient for PM double-cleansing after heavy makeup or sunscreen. Best used as morning cleanser for oily types.
Fragrance-free, sulfate-free, pH-balanced formula is among the safest options for sensitive skin. Probiotic ingredients actively support skin barrier recovery. Dermatologist brand with clinical testing.
Low comedogenic rating and gentle surfactants make this a solid choice for acne-prone skin. However, those with confirmed fungal acne should patch test due to polyglyceryl esters and milk lipids.
The non-stripping formula preserves mature skin's naturally lower lipid content. Glutathione and barrier-supporting ingredients offer anti-aging and brightening benefits alongside the cleanse.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSImmediate Comfort & Clean Finish
Skin feels clean, soft, and balanced immediately after rinsing — without the tight, stripped sensation common with harsher cleansers. The fine foam texture makes application feel luxurious.
~95% noticed no post-wash tightnessImproved Skin Texture & Reduced Sensitivity
Regular twice-daily use helps stabilize the skin microbiome and reinforce the barrier. Redness and reactivity begin to decrease. Skin feels noticeably more comfortable throughout the day.
~70% reported reduced sensitivityVisible Barrier Strengthening & Hydration
Probiotic ingredients show cumulative benefit — skin appears more resilient, plump, and hydrated. Reduced occurrence of dry patches and flakiness even in colder months.
~65% reported improved hydration levelsGradual Brightening & Even Skin Tone
Glutathione begins to show visible effects on skin luminosity and hyperpigmentation. Post-inflammatory marks may appear lighter. Overall skin tone looks more even and radiant.
~55% noticed improved skin brightnessRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fragrance-free — suitable for fragrance-sensitive users
- pH-balanced formula doesn't strip the acid mantle
- Leaves skin feeling soft, clean, and non-tight
- Probiotic MultiProbio™ complex is genuinely unique
- Glutathione adds brightening benefit to a basic step
- No residue — rinses clean without soapy film
- Safe during pregnancy (no banned actives)
- Low comedogenic risk — good for pore-conscious users
- Works as both AM-only and second-cleanse step
Criticized
- Not ideal as sole PM cleanser for heavy makeup wearers
- Caution needed for confirmed fungal acne sufferers
- Contains trace essential oils (orange peel, lavender) — potential allergens
- Milk lipids present — not fully vegan
- Probiotic and brightening concentrations likely low in rinse-off format
- Pump dispenser can be over-generous
- Slightly pricier than basic gel cleansers in the K-beauty market
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also pH-balanced (~5.5), sulfate-free, and suitable for sensitive skin. Contains tea tree oil and betaine salicylate for mild exfoliation. Lacks the probiotic complex and glutathione, but is the go-to budget alternative for the pH-balanced category.
Gentle, pH-balanced foaming cleanser with green tea extract and centella asiatica for soothing benefits. Good for sensitive and acne-prone skin. No probiotic complex or brightening actives, but comparable gentleness and formula integrity.
Rich in birch sap for deep hydration during cleansing. Gentle, low-irritant surfactant system with moisturizing focus. Less clinically-focused than Dr.G but excellent for very dry and dehydrated skin types looking for comparable gentleness.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" indicated.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep below 25°C / 77°F. Do not freeze.
Opaque pump bottle (200ml / 6.76 fl oz). Pump dispenser provides hygienic, measured dispensing — minimizes contamination and product waste. Also available in 100ml mini and 300ml jumbo sizes.
The 100ml mini size is TSA/airline-compliant for carry-on. The standard 200ml bottle exceeds the 100ml liquid limit and should be packed in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Dr.G pH Cleansing Gel Foam is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (retinol, retinyl palmitate, tretinoin), no salicylic acid at concentrations of concern, no hydroquinone, and no chemical UV filters — all of which are commonly avoided during pregnancy. The cleansing agents, probiotic ferments, and botanical extracts used are considered pregnancy-compatible. As always, consult with your OB-GYN or midwife if you have any specific concerns before introducing new skincare products.
Use with caution if you have confirmed fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). The formula contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, and Milk Lipids — all of which contain fatty acid components that may theoretically feed Malassezia yeast. However, because this is a rinse-off cleanser with very short skin contact time (30–60 seconds), many users with mild fungal acne tolerate it well. For severe or persistent fungal acne, we recommend choosing a cleanser specifically verified as Malassezia-safe, such as the COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser. If in doubt, patch test for 1–2 weeks.
Absolutely — in fact, the pH-balanced formula (~5.5) makes it an excellent pairing with all of these actives. Using a low-pH cleanser before vitamin C serums (which work best at low pH) helps prime the skin without dramatically shifting its pH. For retinol and AHA/BHA users, the gentle surfactants avoid disrupting the skin barrier that these actives can sensitize, reducing the risk of over-irritation. Simply apply the cleanser, rinse thoroughly, and then continue with your active-containing toners, serums, and treatments as usual.
The Dr.G pH Cleansing Gel Foam is most highly rated for dry, normal, sensitive, and mature skin types, where its non-stripping, hydrating formula truly excels. It is also well-suited for combination skin as a morning-only cleanser. Oily skin types can use it as part of a double-cleanse routine (following an oil-based first cleanse), though very oily skin may find it insufficient as a standalone PM cleanser after heavy makeup or sunscreen. Acne-prone skin benefits from the low comedogenic rating and probiotic support, though those with fungal acne should exercise caution.
You'll notice the immediate comfort benefit — soft, non-tight skin — from the very first use. Barrier-strengthening and reduced sensitivity benefits from the probiotic MultiProbio™ complex typically become noticeable after 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. Deeper skin texture improvements and enhanced hydration are usually apparent at the 4–6 week mark. For the glutathione brightening benefit, allow 8–12 weeks of regular use, and note that because this is a rinse-off format, results will be more subtle than a leave-on brightening serum. Combining with a leave-on vitamin C or niacinamide product will amplify brightening effects.
This cleanser is always the first step in both your morning and evening skincare routines. In the morning, use it as your sole cleanser, then proceed to toner, essence, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. In the evening, if you wear makeup, SPF, or long-wear products, start with an oil-based or balm cleanser first (first cleanse), then follow with the Dr.G pH Cleansing Gel Foam as your second cleanse (double cleansing method). This ensures thorough removal of oil-based residues while the gel foam cleanses water-soluble impurities and preps the skin for subsequent skincare steps.
No — the comedogenic rating for this cleanser is estimated at 1 out of 5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. The oils present (olive, soybean, wheat germ) are included as unsaponifiable fractions only — meaning the pore-clogging fatty acid portions have been removed. The surfactants (coco-glucoside, sodium cocoyl glutamate, potassium cocoyl glutamate) are all rated 0–1 for comedogenicity. As a rinse-off product, even potentially comedogenic ingredients have minimal skin contact time. Users with pore-clogging concerns can use this cleanser with confidence.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for the Dr.G pH Cleansing Gel Foam is 12 months — indicated by the open jar symbol on the packaging. The 200ml bottle typically lasts 2–4 months with twice-daily use (1–2 pumps per use), well within the 12-month window. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain formula stability. The pump dispenser design helps prevent contamination and extends effective shelf life. If you notice any change in color, texture, or scent, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Dr.G pH Cleansing Gel Foam is one of the most thoughtfully formulated K-beauty cleansers in the mid-range price segment. Its combination of a pH-optimal formula (~5.5), a clinically relevant five-strain probiotic complex (MultiProbio™), and skin-brightening glutathione delivers real value far beyond a basic face wash. The gentle, sulfate-free surfactant blend produces a satisfying fine foam that removes daily impurities without stripping the skin barrier — making it an outstanding choice for sensitive, dry, reactive, and mature skin types. The main limitations are its moderate cleansing power for very oily skin used as a sole PM cleanser, and minor fungal acne caution due to polyglyceryl esters and milk lipids. Overall, this is a premium daily cleanser that earns its loyal following and justifies repeat purchases.
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
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Potassium Laureth Phosphate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Cocoyl Glutamate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Aspartic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|