Plum Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash
Plum Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, gel-based pore cleansing face wash by Plum Goodness enriched with antioxidant Green Tea extract, Glycolic Acid for mild exfoliation, and natural Cellulose beads to deep-cleanse pores, control excess oil, and help fight acne — without stripping or drying the skin.
Antioxidant Green Tea Extract
Camellia Sinensis leaf extract delivers potent catechins that fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and inhibit acne-causing bacteria at the cellular level.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntioxidant Green Tea Extract
Camellia Sinensis leaf extract delivers potent catechins that fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and inhibit acne-causing bacteria at the cellular level.
Glycolic Acid Exfoliation
Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) gently dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores, refines skin texture, and brightens the complexion with every wash — no scrubbing needed.
Natural Cellulose Micro-Beads
Biodegradable plant-derived cellulose beads provide gentle physical exfoliation, sweeping away dirt and sebum from pores without the micro-plastic concern of synthetic beads.
Non-Drying Gel Formula
Glycerin as a humectant combined with a mild SLES-based surfactant system ensures thorough cleansing while maintaining the skin's natural moisture balance — no tight, stripped feeling.
Soap-Free & SLS-Free
Formulated without soap or harsh sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Uses milder Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and amphoteric Cocamidopropyl Betaine for a gentler, low-irritation cleanse.
100% Vegan & PETA Certified
Every ingredient in this formula is plant-derived or synthetic — no animal-derived components. PETA cruelty-free certification ensures no animal testing at any production stage.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Glycolic Acid (AHA). While low concentrations in rinse-off products are generally considered lower risk, it's advisable to consult your OB/GYN before use during pregnancy. Also contains Parfum (fragrance) which some practitioners advise avoiding. Use with caution.
The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Glycolic Acid actively helps prevent fungal acne by exfoliating the pore lining. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Extremely low comedogenic risk. None of the key ingredients (Green Tea, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Cellulose) are known to clog pores. Cocamide DEA has a rating of 2, but as a rinse-off surfactant it poses negligible risk.
PETA-certified vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Not tested on animals at any stage of production or ingredient sourcing. Safe for those with ethical sourcing requirements.
Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin should do a patch test before use. Glycolic Acid can cause mild stinging or irritation on compromised skin barriers. Start with once-daily use and increase gradually.
Contains Parfum (fragrance blend). Those with fragrance sensitivities or contact dermatitis should patch test first. The fragrance concentration is low and rinses off with water, reducing overall exposure risk.
Uses Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin as a paraben-free preservative system. Both are well-established, globally approved cosmetic preservatives considered safe at concentrations used in skincare.
Gentle enough for teenage skin dealing with hormonal acne and excess oil. Non-stripping formula helps manage breakouts without creating dryness-rebound oiliness. Safe for daily use from age 13+.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) Base (~60%+)Essential
Purified, deionized water serves as the primary solvent and vehicle for all water-soluble active ingredients. As the first listed ingredient, it constitutes the largest proportion of the formula and enables the gel consistency.
- Function: Solvent, carrier medium for actives
- Safety: Universally safe — EWG score 1
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) Moderate %Proven
Green Tea extract is one of the most researched natural skincare ingredients. Rich in polyphenol catechins (especially EGCG — epigallocatechin gallate), it delivers powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits that directly combat acne pathways.
- Antioxidant: Catechins neutralize free radicals that damage skin cells and worsen acne inflammation
- Antimicrobial: EGCG inhibits Cutibacterium acnes (acne-causing bacteria) growth in multiple studies
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces erythema and swelling associated with active breakouts
- Sebum Control: Polyphenols inhibit 5-alpha-reductase activity, reducing androgen-driven sebum production
- Source: Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2003) — EGCG shown to suppress sebaceous lipid synthesis
Carbomer ~0.5–1%Functional
A synthetic polymer (cross-linked polyacrylic acid) that acts as a gelling agent and thickener, giving the product its transparent gel texture. It helps suspend the cellulose beads evenly throughout the formula.
- Function: Gelling agent, texture modifier, viscosity builder
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-comedogenic — EWG score 1
Cellulose (Beads) Visual % — as beadsPromising
Natural, plant-derived cellulose micro-beads provide gentle physical exfoliation. Unlike synthetic polyethylene microbeads (which are now banned in many countries), cellulose beads are biodegradable and environmentally responsible.
- Function: Physical exfoliant, pore-decongesting scrub action
- Benefit: Removes surface dead cells and loosens sebaceous filaments when massaged in
- Eco: 100% biodegradable — no micro-plastic environmental concern
Cocamide DEA ~1–2%Functional
A coconut-derived foam booster and co-surfactant that enhances lather density and improves the viscosity of the cleanser formula. It works synergistically with the main surfactants for a richer cleansing feel.
- Function: Foam booster, viscosity builder, co-emulsifier
- Safety: Approved for cosmetic use; may contain trace diethanolamine — but considered safe at levels used in rinse-off products per CIR and EU SCCS assessments
Cocamidopropyl Betaine ~2–5%Proven
A mild, amphoteric (zwitterionic) surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is one of the gentlest cleansing agents used in skincare, known for its excellent skin compatibility, low irritation profile, and foam-stabilizing properties.
- Function: Secondary surfactant, foam stabilizer, conditioning agent
- Mildness: Amphoteric character means it tolerates both acidic and alkaline pH ranges without becoming harsh
- Benefit: Reduces the irritation potential of the primary surfactant (SLES) when combined
Ethylhexylglycerin ~0.1–0.5%Functional
A multifunctional ingredient serving as a co-preservative and skin-conditioning agent. It enhances the efficacy of phenoxyethanol by disrupting bacterial membrane function, allowing both to work at lower, gentler concentrations.
- Function: Co-preservative, conditioning agent
- Synergy: Works in tandem with phenoxyethanol for broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection
- Safety: Well-tolerated; considered safe by EU SCCS — EWG score 1
Parfum (Fragrance) ~0.1–0.5%Aesthetic
A fragrance blend that imparts the characteristic light green tea scent to the product. The fragrance enhances the sensory experience of cleansing. As a rinse-off product, residual fragrance on skin is minimal.
- Function: Scent / sensory enhancement
Glycerin ~2–5%Proven
A classic humectant that attracts water molecules from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, maintaining hydration during and after cleansing. It counteracts any drying effect from the surfactant system.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Research: One of the most clinically validated moisturizing ingredients in dermatology
- Safety: Universally safe, non-comedogenic — EWG score 1
Glycolic Acid ~0.5–2% (estimated)Proven
The star active ingredient. Glycolic Acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), allowing it to penetrate the skin surface effectively even in a rinse-off cleanser. It loosens the bonds between dead corneocytes, accelerating cell turnover and unclogging pores.
- Exfoliation: Breaks desmosomes between dead skin cells, preventing the buildup that causes comedones and acne
- Brightening: Accelerates the shedding of melanin-rich surface cells, reducing post-acne dark marks (PIH)
- Pore Refining: Regular use reduces the appearance of enlarged pores by keeping them clear
- Research: Multiple RCTs confirm AHA cleansers improve acne, skin texture, and radiance vs. non-AHA controls
Phenoxyethanol ~0.5–1%Functional
A widely used cosmetic preservative that prevents microbial contamination and extends product shelf life. It is globally approved and considered a safer alternative to parabens, working effectively across a broad pH range.
- Function: Primary preservative, antimicrobial
- Approval: Permitted up to 1% in EU, US, and most global markets
- Safety: Well-tolerated at approved concentrations; EWG score 3 (low concern)
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) ~5–15%Functional
The primary cleansing and foaming surfactant in the formula. SLES is significantly milder than its close relative Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) due to its ethoxylated structure, which reduces skin protein binding and irritation potential.
- Function: Primary surfactant, emulsifier, foam generator
- vs. SLS: The ethylene oxide groups in SLES reduce binding to skin proteins by ~10x compared to SLS, resulting in dramatically lower irritation scores in clinical comparisons
- Safety: Safe and approved globally for use in rinse-off cosmetics at standard concentrations
13 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Carbomer, Cellulose, Cocamide DEA, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Parfum, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, FDA Approved Colours
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEAlways the first step. Use AM and/or PM as needed. Follow immediately with toner to restore pH balance. On nights you use additional AHA/BHA exfoliants, consider skipping this cleanser or spacing treatments to avoid over-exfoliation.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water generously over your face and neck to soften the skin and open pores slightly. Avoid very hot water as it can increase skin sensitivity, especially with the Glycolic Acid present.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a pea-sized amount (about 5 drops) onto your fingertips or palm. Work it into a soft lather between your hands before applying to your face — this distributes the cellulose beads evenly and activates the surfactants.
Gentle Circular Massage
Apply to your face and massage in gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds, focusing on oily T-zone areas and around the nose where pores tend to be largest. The cellulose beads work best with a light, non-aggressive touch.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with cool or lukewarm water, ensuring no product residue remains — especially around the hairline and jawline. Incomplete rinsing can leave surfactant residue that may cause dryness.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat skin dry with a clean, soft towel (avoid rubbing). Proceed immediately with your toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with clogged pores, blackheads, or whiteheads
- You want a cleanser that also gently exfoliates
- You're looking for a budget-friendly AHA cleanser
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free formulas
- You experience hormonal breakouts or post-acne hyperpigmentation
- You prefer Indian-made skincare with clean credentials
- You want a gel cleanser with a pleasant scent for daily use
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, dehydrated, or eczema-prone skin
- You have severe fragrance sensitivity or contact dermatitis
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid AHA ingredients
- You need a completely fragrance-free formula
- You have an active, compromised skin barrier (active rash, burns, open acne)
- You prefer sulfate-free cleansing (SLES is present)
- You require a medicated cleanser with higher AHA concentrations (e.g., 5%+)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe Glycolic Acid and cellulose beads tackle excess sebum production directly. Green Tea's anti-seborrheic properties help regulate oil long-term. Ideal for oily T-zone management without over-stripping.
Dual-action formula — Green Tea fights acne-causing bacteria while Glycolic Acid prevents pore blockages that lead to breakouts. Fungal acne safe. Non-comedogenic rating of 1/5 makes it very pore-friendly.
Balances the oily T-zone while being gentle enough not to over-dry drier cheek areas. The Glycerin humectant helps maintain moisture in drier zones. An ideal everyday cleanser for combination skin types.
Works well as a daily or bi-daily cleanser for normal skin. Glycolic Acid provides a gentle preventative exfoliation benefit. Those without congestion concerns may find the cellulose beads unnecessary but not harmful.
Approach with caution. The fragrance (Parfum) and Glycolic Acid may irritate easily reactive skin. Always patch test first. Consider using every other day rather than twice daily if sensitivity is a concern.
The SLES surfactant and AHA exfoliation can be drying for already-parched skin. Glycerin helps, but dry skin types should follow immediately with a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer. Once-daily use recommended.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Freshness & Oil Control
From the very first use, skin feels noticeably cleaner, lighter, and fresher post-wash. Excess sebum and surface impurities are removed effectively. Pores appear temporarily minimized due to thorough cleansing.
95% noticed immediate freshnessReduced Breakout Frequency
With consistent daily use, the combination of Glycolic Acid's pore-clearing action and Green Tea's antimicrobial properties begins to reduce new pimple formation. Existing small bumps start to heal faster with less inflammation.
72% noticed fewer new breakoutsImproved Skin Texture & Brighter Tone
Glycolic Acid's regular micro-exfoliation accelerates cell turnover, visibly smoothing rough skin texture and reducing the dull, uneven tone associated with acne-prone skin. Post-acne marks begin to lighten.
65% noticed improved texture and glowVisibly Refined Pores & Faded Marks
Continued AHA exfoliation and antioxidant protection leads to significantly reduced pore visibility and substantial lightening of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Overall skin quality becomes more uniform and balanced.
58% noticed visibly refined poresRatings by platform
28K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively controls excess sebum without over-drying
- Gentle exfoliation brightens dull skin tone over time
- Non-comedogenic — doesn't worsen clogged pores
- Vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and SLS-free
- Great value for money — affordable daily cleanser
- Lathers well with a small amount — economical to use
- Reduces frequency of hormonal and everyday acne breakouts
- Biodegradable cellulose beads — eco-friendly exfoliation
- Travel-friendly tube packaging, no leakage reported
- Fungal acne safe formula
Criticized
- Contains Parfum — not suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Contains SLES — not ideal for very dry or damaged skin barrier
- Glycolic Acid concentration not disclosed — hard to track exfoliation dosage
- Not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice
- Limited blackhead removal results reported by some users
- Strong initial fragrance disliked by a subset of users
- Cocamide DEA raises concerns for some clean beauty advocates
- Tube packaging makes it hard to see remaining product quantity
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses BHA (Salicylic Acid) instead of AHA for pore cleansing — better for blackheads specifically. No cellulose beads but very similar anti-acne positioning. Fragrance-free advantage over Plum. Comparable price point.
Classic drugstore acne cleanser with Neem (antimicrobial) and Turmeric. No AHA exfoliation benefit and contains SLS, but significantly cheaper and very widely available. Good for budget-conscious acne-prone skin.
Higher transparency on active ingredient concentration (0.5% SA) vs. Plum's undisclosed Glycolic Acid %. BHA approach is better for oily skin; AHA approach in Plum is better for overall texture and brightening. Both target acne effectively.
Very similar concept — Green Tea extract with a gel-based cleanser for oily/acne-prone skin. Lacks the Glycolic Acid exfoliation benefit that makes Plum distinctively more active. Slightly gentler formula without cellulose beads.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Biotique Bio Papaya Face Wash
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The combination of Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin provides robust preservation for up to 12 months post-opening under normal use conditions.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in very warm or humid environments (e.g., steamy bathroom shelves). Keep the cap firmly closed after each use to prevent contamination and evaporation.
Comes in a squeezable plastic tube with a flip-top or screw cap. The opaque white tube protects the formula from light degradation. Available in 50ml, 75ml, and 120ml sizes.
Yes — the 50ml and 75ml sizes are within airline carry-on liquid limits (under 100ml). Tube packaging is leak-resistant and compact, making it an excellent travel companion.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis requires caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains Glycolic Acid (an AHA), which in rinse-off cleansers is generally considered lower risk than leave-on products, but many OBGYNs advise avoiding AHA ingredients during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. It also contains Parfum (fragrance), which some practitioners recommend avoiding. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone in this formula — the most commonly contraindicated ingredients. We strongly recommend consulting your OB/GYN or midwife before incorporating this into your routine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding to get guidance personalised to your situation.
Yes, this cleanser is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or triglycerides that feed Malassezia yeast. Glycolic Acid actually provides a direct benefit by exfoliating the follicular lining where fungal acne tends to develop. Green Tea extract also has known antifungal properties. This makes it a suitable cleanser for those dealing with fungal acne or Pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes, but with some considerations. As a rinse-off cleanser, the Glycolic Acid exposure time is brief, so it generally pairs well with most active ingredients in your leave-on products. However, if you're already using leave-on AHA or BHA exfoliants (like a Glycolic Acid toner or Salicylic Acid serum), be mindful of cumulative exfoliation — using this cleanser plus a leave-on AHA/BHA on the same day can cause over-exfoliation, redness, and sensitivity. On days you're using leave-on actives, consider switching to a gentler, non-exfoliating cleanser, or use this face wash on alternating days. It pairs well with Vitamin C serums and retinol in the same routine, just apply those actives after cleansing and toning.
This face wash is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The Glycolic Acid + Cellulose bead exfoliation, Green Tea's oil-regulating properties, and the gel-based formula all work synergistically for these skin types. It performs well for normal skin too. It's moderate for sensitive skin (due to fragrance and AHA) and requires caution for dry or eczema-prone skin, as the SLES surfactant can be somewhat drying with frequent use. If you have dry skin, it can still be used once daily followed by a rich moisturiser.
You'll notice immediate results (fresher, cleaner, less oily skin) from the very first use. For anti-acne benefits, most users report fewer breakouts within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. Visible skin texture improvements and brightening from Glycolic Acid's exfoliation effect typically appear after 3–4 weeks. Maximum pore refining and hyperpigmentation lightening results are usually seen after 6–8 weeks of twice-daily use. Consistency is key — sporadic use will not deliver the progressive results that daily use achieves.
This face wash is always Step 1 — the very first product in both your morning (AM) and evening (PM) routine. For AM: cleanser → toner → serum → moisturiser → SPF. For PM: cleanser (may double cleanse if wearing SPF/makeup) → toner → treatment serum → night moisturiser. It's a rinse-off cleanser, so nothing else is needed before it. If you wear sunscreen or makeup during the day, consider using an oil-based makeup remover or micellar water as a first cleanse before this face wash in the evening (the double cleanse method) for thorough removal.
No, this face wash is non-comedogenic with a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. None of the key ingredients are known to clog pores. In fact, the formula is specifically designed to unclog pores — Glycolic Acid dissolves the dead skin cell buildup that causes comedones, while Cellulose beads physically sweep away debris from pore openings. Green Tea extract actively reduces sebum production that leads to blocked pores. As a rinse-off product, even the surfactants (which have a theoretical comedogenic potential in leave-on formulas) are thoroughly washed away before they can cause any pore obstruction.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 12 months, indicated by the open jar symbol on the packaging. Using it twice daily with a pea-sized amount per use, a 75ml tube typically lasts approximately 3–4 months of regular use — well within the PAO window. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed tightly to preserve efficacy and prevent contamination. If the texture, colour, or smell changes noticeably before 12 months, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Plum Goodness Green Tea Pore Cleansing Face Wash is an impressively well-rounded daily cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin. Its dual chemical + physical exfoliation approach — combining Glycolic Acid with biodegradable cellulose beads — offers more active skincare value than most face washes at its price point. The antioxidant Green Tea extract genuinely benefits acne-prone skin, the formula is fungal acne safe, and the vegan, paraben-free credentials make it a clean pick. Points are docked for the undisclosed Glycolic Acid concentration, the presence of fragrance (limiting use for sensitive skin types), and the somewhat drying SLES surfactant that makes it less ideal for dry skin. For its target audience — oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — it's a reliable everyday cleanser that punches well above its price tag.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Emollient, Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant, Skin Protecting, Tonic
|
Anti-Aging
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cellulose
Viscosity Controlling, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Slip Modifier
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cocamide DEA
Emulsifying, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|