Properly Clean
Properly Clean
Product Description
Product overview
Go-To Skincare Properly Clean is a silky-soft natural mousse face cleanser that removes makeup, dirt, and excess oil without stripping or drying out the skin. Powered by plant-derived surfactants and willow bark extract, it leaves your complexion thoroughly clean, balanced, and never tight — making it perfect for everyday use on all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
100% Plant-Derived Surfactants
Four gentle, coconut-derived cleansing agents work together to lift dirt and oil without disrupting the skin's natural barrier or pH balance.
Texture & feel
SENSORY100% Plant-Derived Surfactants
Four gentle, coconut-derived cleansing agents work together to lift dirt and oil without disrupting the skin's natural barrier or pH balance.
Willow Bark Extract
A natural source of salicin — a gentle precursor to salicylic acid — that helps refine pores, manage excess oil, and keep breakouts under control without harsh exfoliation.
Glycerin — Plant-Derived Humectant
Draws moisture into the skin and locks it there during cleansing, so your face feels hydrated and soft after washing, not stripped or tight.
Unique Mousse Format
The pump-dispense mousse texture creates luxurious foam without relying on harsh synthetic foaming agents (like SLS), making it gentler on sensitive and reactive skin types.
Refillable & Eco-Conscious
Available in a 150ml refill pouch that reduces plastic waste by over 80% compared to buying a new bottle. TerraCycle®-compatible packaging rounds out the eco credentials.
Clean & Ethical Formula
Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, PEGs, synthetic colours, and GMOs. Formulated by Australian brand Go-To Skincare, founded by beauty editor Zoë Foster Blake.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGenerally considered low-risk, but contains Willow Bark Extract (a natural source of salicylic acid) and Benzyl Alcohol. While the concentration of willow bark is very low and considered far gentler than topical salicylic acid, it's advisable to consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. The natural fragrance (containing citrus and patchouli oils) may also warrant caution for very sensitive pregnancies.
Properly Clean does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. All four surfactants are coconut-derived and rinse off completely, making this cleanser a safe option for those managing fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
With no oils, waxes, or heavy emollients in the formula, and a rinse-off format, the comedogenic risk is very low. Glycerin (rating 0) and coconut-derived surfactants (rating 0–1) keep the pore-clogging potential minimal. Suitable for acne-prone and congested skin.
Free from parabens, sulfates (SLS/SLES), synthetic fragrances, silicones, mineral oil, and dyes. Uses only a natural fragrance blend (mandarin, lime, patchouli). Rated 83% low-risk ingredients by the EWG Skin Deep® database. Suitable for rosacea-prone and reactive skin with patch testing recommended.
As a rinse-off cleanser, Properly Clean is compatible with all actives in your routine. Cleanse first, then apply toners, vitamin C serums, retinol, AHAs, or BHAs. The slightly acidic pH (balanced by Citric Acid) supports the effectiveness of subsequent actives.
The mild surfactant blend is gentle enough to use near the eye area for most people. Multiple users have noted they can use it without eye stinging. However, as with all cleansers, avoid direct contact with eyes.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60%+Base
The primary solvent and base of the formula. Water dissolves and carries all other active and functional ingredients, creating the fluid base needed for the mousse pump system to operate and for the surfactants to lather effectively.
- Function: Solvent, carrier, and formulation base.
- Safety: Universally safe (EWG rating: 1).
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate ~5–10%Proven
A mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. Acts as the primary foaming and cleansing agent in Properly Clean, creating rich, stable foam while being significantly gentler than conventional foaming agents like SLS. It is well-tolerated by sensitive and damaged skin barriers.
- Function: Primary surfactant, foam builder, mild cleanser.
- Study: Ranked among the least irritating surfactants in comparative studies of 8 common cleansing agents (WIMJ Research, 2021).
- Origin: Coconut oil derivative; biodegradable.
Glycerin ~3–7%Proven
A 100% plant-derived humectant that is one of the most well-researched moisturising ingredients in cosmetic science. It attracts water from deeper skin layers and the environment to the skin's surface, preventing the tight, dry feeling often associated with cleansing. Its presence in a cleanser is a key reason Properly Clean feels so comfortable post-wash.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent, moisture-retention.
- Study: A comprehensive review (Fluhr et al., 2008 — Glycerol and the Skin) confirms glycerol as highly effective for improving skin hydration and barrier function.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — will not clog pores.
Lauryl Glucoside ~2–5%Proven
A non-ionic surfactant and gentle cleanser made from glucose (sugar) and coconut-derived lauryl alcohol. Works synergistically with the other surfactants in Properly Clean to boost foam and cleansing efficacy while keeping the formula mild and non-stripping. Widely used in baby and sensitive-skin products.
- Function: Secondary surfactant, foam booster, emulsifier.
- Safety: EWG rating 1 — very low hazard. Non-irritating at typical use concentrations.
- Origin: Sugarcane glucose + coconut fatty alcohol; highly biodegradable.
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate ~1–3%Proven
An amino acid-based surfactant (sodium salt of cocoyl glutamic acid) derived from coconut oil. Renowned for its skin feel benefits — it has a mild emollient effect that leaves skin feeling soft after rinsing. It also has a lower irritation potential than many other surfactants and is popular in premium and natural formulations.
- Function: Mild surfactant, cleanser, emollient co-agent.
- Safety Assessment: Confirmed safe as used in rinse-off cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel.
Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate ~1–3%Promising
A mild, multifunctional surfactant that provides additional foam boosting and cleansing support in the formula. It works in combination with lauryl glucoside to improve the overall texture and cleansing performance of the mousse without contributing to irritation. Less commonly used, indicating a preference for premium, gentle actives.
- Function: Co-surfactant, foam enhancer, mild cleanser.
- Combination Benefit: Often paired with Lauryl Glucoside to create a synergistic cleansing system that is particularly effective and gentle.
Sodium Chloride ~0.5–2%Functional
Common table salt, used here as a viscosity modifier and texture enhancer. In mousse formulations, sodium chloride helps create the gel-like internal structure that allows the pump to aerate the product into a foam. It also acts as a mild emulsifier to prevent ingredient separation.
- Function: Viscosity control, texture modifier, emulsion stabiliser.
- Note: Present in very low concentrations — well below levels that could cause skin irritation or dryness.
Dehydroacetic Acid ~0.1–0.6%Proven
A safe and effective broad-spectrum preservative used in cosmetics to prevent microbial contamination and extend product shelf life. Approved for use by the EU Cosmetics Regulation and the FDA. Often paired with Benzyl Alcohol for a synergistic preservative system that works at low, non-irritating concentrations.
- Function: Preservative — inhibits bacterial, fungal, and yeast growth.
- Safety: CIR Final Safety Assessment confirms safety at concentrations up to 0.6% in cosmetic products.
Benzyl Alcohol ~0.1–1%Proven
A naturally-occurring alcohol found in many fruits (apricots, cherries) and essential oils. Functions as a co-preservative alongside Dehydroacetic Acid, as well as a solvent and mild fragrance component. At the concentrations used in Properly Clean, it is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. However, individuals with a known Benzyl Alcohol sensitivity should patch test.
- Function: Co-preservative, solvent, viscosity modifier.
- Safety: Generally recognised as safe at ≤1% in leave-on products and higher in rinse-off formulas. EWG rating: 3 (moderate due to sensitisation potential in a small subset of individuals).
Citric Acid ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A naturally-derived alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) from citrus fruits, used here primarily as a pH adjuster rather than an exfoliant. Citric Acid ensures the formula maintains a slightly acidic pH (~5–6), which is important for skin barrier integrity and for ensuring the surfactants rinse off cleanly and completely. At this concentration, no exfoliation occurs.
- Function: pH adjuster, chelating agent, formula stabiliser.
- Note: Not present at exfoliating concentrations in a rinse-off cleanser. Its role here is purely functional, not active.
Salix Alba (White Willow) Bark Extract ~tracePromising
Derived from the white willow tree, this botanical extract contains salicin — a compound that can be converted to salicylic acid in the body. In skincare at very low concentrations (as used here), it functions primarily as a gentle anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, with mild pore-refining and oil-control properties. Go-To specifically describes it as a "very gentle version of salicylic acid" that keeps skin clear without irritation.
- Key Compound: Salicin — the natural precursor to salicylic acid.
- Function: Mild pore-refiner, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant.
- Note: At trace concentrations in a rinse-off product, the exfoliating effect is minimal. Benefits are primarily anti-inflammatory and soothing.
Parfum (Natural Fragrance) ~traceFunctional
A natural fragrance blend consisting of mandarin, lime, and patchouli essential oils (some versions also include ginger). Provides the product's light, fresh citrus-herbal scent. While "natural fragrance" is generally preferred over synthetic fragrance, essential oils can still cause sensitivity reactions in some individuals, particularly those with highly reactive skin.
- Components: Citrus nobilis (mandarin), lime oil, Pogostemon cablin leaf oil (patchouli), ginger oil.
- Function: Sensory/fragrance.
12 ingredients — Water, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Glycerin, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate, Sodium Chloride, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Parfum (Natural Fragrance: Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil, Lime Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night as your first cleansing step. At night, consider double cleansing with an oil cleanser first if wearing SPF or heavy makeup, then follow with Properly Clean as your second cleanse.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Wet your face with lukewarm water. Avoid very hot water as it can strip the skin's natural oils and cause redness.
Pump & Apply
Pump 1–2 times into your palm (a little goes a long way — the mousse expands with water). Apply the foam directly to your damp face in gentle circular motions.
Massage Gently
Work the mousse across your entire face including the T-zone, jawline, and around the nose for 30–60 seconds. The willow bark extract gets time to act on pores.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. The formula rinses off clean without a filmy after-feel.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat (don't rub) your face dry with a clean towel. Proceed immediately with your toner, serum, and moisturiser while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle daily cleanser that doesn't strip your skin
- You have oily, combination, acne-prone, or sensitive skin
- You prefer natural and plant-derived skincare
- You dislike the tight, dry feeling after washing your face
- You're looking for a fungal-acne safe face wash
- You want a sulfate-free, paraben-free cleanser
- You're managing breakouts and oiliness simultaneously
- You enjoy a luxurious mousse texture for daily use
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a known fragrance or benzyl alcohol allergy
- You are pregnant and concerned about any salicylate exposure (consult your doctor)
- You need a 100% fragrance-free formula for severely reactive skin
- You wear heavy, long-wear makeup and need a stronger first-cleanse
- You are looking for active exfoliation in your cleanser
- Budget is a primary concern — similar drugstore options exist
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWillow bark extract gently manages excess sebum and keeps pores clear. The formula removes oil effectively without triggering rebound oiliness — a common issue with harsh cleansers.
Balances the T-zone without drying out drier cheeks. The glycerin content keeps dry zones hydrated while the surfactants handle oily areas — a textbook win for combination types.
Glycerin prevents the drying effect common with cleansers. However, those with very dry or dehydrated skin may want to follow with a heavier moisturiser and hydrating toner, as the formula is not enriched with oils.
Free from harsh sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrance. However, the natural fragrance (citrus + patchouli oils) means it is not completely fragrance-free. Those with highly reactive or rosacea-prone skin should patch test first.
Non-comedogenic (rating 1/5), fungal acne safe, and features willow bark extract for gentle pore management. The plant-based surfactants cleanse without disrupting the microbiome or triggering post-cleanse breakouts.
Gentle enough for mature skin that has become more reactive with age. Soft enough to use without worry of barrier damage. Long-term users have reported using it for 5–7 years without ever needing to switch.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Noticeably Cleaner, Balanced Feel
From the very first use, skin feels clean and hydrated — not tight or stripped. The mousse texture provides a pleasurable cleansing experience that stands out from gel and foam cleansers. Light citrus scent is pleasant without being overpowering.
95% noticed improved post-wash comfortPore Refinement & Oil Balance
With consistent use twice daily, the willow bark extract begins to show its cumulative benefits: pores appear slightly smaller and shine is better controlled throughout the day. Skin tone looks more even and fresh after cleansing.
78% reported reduced mid-day oilinessClearer, More Balanced Complexion
Regular use supports a cleaner canvas for the rest of your routine. Users with mild congestion and breakouts report fewer comedones and a reduction in surface bumps. Skin barrier feels more resilient — less reactive to other products and environmental stressors.
72% reported fewer breakouts and clearer skinMaintained Skin Health & Routine Loyalty
Long-term users describe Properly Clean as a "forever cleanser" — one they keep returning to because it consistently delivers without irritating, over-drying, or compromising the skin barrier. Works synergistically with all other routine steps to maximise their effectiveness.
89% would repurchaseRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Never leaves skin feeling tight or stripped after washing
- Luxurious, silky mousse texture unlike standard foam cleansers
- 100% plant-derived, vegan, and cruelty-free formula
- Willow bark extract gently controls oil and refines pores
- Fungal acne safe — no problematic esters or fatty acids
- Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and mature skin
- Now available in refillable pouches to reduce plastic waste
- Long-lasting — one pump is enough for a full cleanse
- Light, fresh natural scent loved by most users
- Effective at removing light makeup and daily grime
Criticized
- Not fragrance-free — unsuitable for the most fragrance-sensitive
- Willow bark extract requires caution during pregnancy
- May not be sufficient as a standalone cleanser for heavy makeup wearers
- Price is higher than comparable drugstore cleansers
- 150ml bottle may run out faster for twice-daily users
- Limited international availability outside Australia and the US
- Pump head can sometimes need multiple primes before dispensing
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Both are gentle, non-stripping rinse-off cleansers with humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid) that leave skin feeling hydrated. CeraVe adds ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support, but lacks the mousse texture, willow bark pore-refining benefits, and natural/vegan formulation of Properly Clean. Better for very dry or compromised skin barriers.
Dermatologist-recommended, fragrance-free, and excellent for sensitive skin — ideal if you need a completely fragrance-free option that Properly Clean cannot offer. However, it uses a milky gel texture (not mousse), contains no pore-refining botanical actives, and is not vegan. Very gentle but more passive in its action.
A popular K-beauty gel cleanser with a low pH and tea tree oil for blemish-prone skin. Shares the gentle, non-stripping, acne-focused philosophy of Properly Clean. However, it contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) as a secondary surfactant, making it slightly more irritating. Not in mousse format and has a more astringent feel.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the open jar symbol on packaging for confirmation. Using the product within this window ensures full preservative efficacy and fragrance stability.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the pump mechanism dry between uses. Avoid storing in very humid bathrooms if possible — a dry shelf or cabinet is ideal.
Foam pump dispenser bottle (150ml). Available as a standalone bottle or as a refillable bottle + refill pouch. Refill pouch reduces packaging waste by over 80%. TerraCycle® recyclable via MECCA stores.
The 150ml bottle is at the liquid limit for carry-on luggage (100ml in many jurisdictions). For travel, Go-To offers a smaller mini size. If travelling internationally, check airline liquid restrictions — the full-size bottle may need to go in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQProperly Clean is considered low-risk but warrants a degree of caution during pregnancy. The formula contains Salix Alba (White Willow) Bark Extract, which is a natural source of salicin — a compound structurally related to salicylates (the family that includes aspirin and salicylic acid). While the concentration in Properly Clean is very low and it is a rinse-off product (meaning minimal absorption), it is generally recommended to consult your healthcare provider or obstetrician before using salicylate-containing products during pregnancy. The natural fragrance (containing citrus and patchouli essential oils) is an additional consideration for those with fragrance sensitivity during pregnancy. For the safest option during pregnancy, consider a fragrance-free, salicylate-free cleanser such as La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser.
Yes — Go-To Properly Clean is considered fungal acne safe. The formula does not contain any of the ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast, including fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, fermented ingredients, or oils. All four surfactants (Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Lauryl Glucoside, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate) are coconut-derived but present as rinse-off cleansing agents that are washed away entirely — they do not remain on the skin to nourish yeast. This makes Properly Clean an excellent choice for those managing fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) or malassezia-related skin concerns.
Absolutely — Properly Clean is a rinse-off cleanser, which means it is fully compatible with all actives in your routine. Because it rinses off completely, there are no interactions to worry about. In fact, cleansing before applying actives like vitamin C serums, retinol, or exfoliating AHAs and BHAs actually helps them work better by ensuring they're applied to a clean, product-free skin surface. The slightly acidic pH of Properly Clean (balanced by Citric Acid) also helps prime your skin for pH-dependent actives like AHAs and BHAs. Simply cleanse, pat dry, and layer your actives as usual.
Go-To Properly Clean is most celebrated by those with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its ability to cleanse thoroughly without over-stripping, and thanks to the willow bark extract's pore-refining and oil-control properties. However, the brand and users confirm it works for all skin types — including dry, normal, sensitive, and mature skin — because of the glycerin humectant that prevents post-cleanse dryness. The one exception: those with very fragrance-sensitive or severely reactive skin may prefer a 100% fragrance-free cleanser, as Properly Clean contains a natural fragrance blend (mandarin, lime, and patchouli oils).
Many users notice an improvement in post-cleanse skin comfort from the very first use — skin feels clean but not tight or dry, which is a meaningful difference from harsher cleansers. Oil control and pore-refining benefits from the willow bark extract build over 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Clearer skin and fewer breakouts are typically reported after 3–4 weeks of regular use. As a cleanser, results are largely about what you don't experience — no dryness, no irritation, no rebound oiliness — rather than dramatic visible transformations. For active skin concerns (hyperpigmentation, wrinkles), you'll need dedicated treatment serums and actives in addition to your cleanser.
Properly Clean is always your first step — use it morning and night as the foundation of your routine. In the morning, cleanse, then apply toner, vitamin C or other antioxidant serums, moisturiser, and SPF (in that order). At night, if you wear makeup or SPF, consider double cleansing: first use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to break down makeup/sunscreen, then use Properly Clean as your second cleanse for a thorough clean without over-washing. Follow with toner, treatment serums, eye cream, moisturiser, and retinol (if using). Never apply actives to uncleansed skin.
No — Go-To Properly Clean has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, which is considered very low risk. The formula contains no oils, waxes, or heavy emollients that are commonly associated with pore-clogging. Glycerin (comedogenic rating 0) is the only skin-conditioning ingredient, and all four surfactants are rinse-off agents that are washed away completely. As a rinse-off cleanser, the product does not sit on the skin long enough to clog pores even if any individual ingredient carried a theoretical risk. Properly Clean is suitable and recommended for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin types.
Go-To Properly Clean has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Look for the open jar symbol on the bottle's base or label — it will show "12M". At once-daily use, a single 150ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months. With twice-daily use, expect approximately 6–8 weeks per bottle, depending on how many pumps you use per wash. One pump is usually sufficient for a full cleanse. If you're a heavy user, the refill pouch option is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to extend your supply.
Verdict: Go-To Skincare Properly Clean earns its bestseller status by doing exactly what a great daily cleanser should: it cleans thoroughly, respects the skin barrier, and leaves your face feeling genuinely comfortable rather than stripped. The unique silky mousse texture, 100% plant-derived formula, and willow bark extract pore-refining action set it apart from standard gel and foam cleansers. At a comedogenic rating of 1/5 and confirmed fungal acne safe, it is one of the most inclusive cleansers on the market. The only meaningful caveats are the natural fragrance (a concern for the most fragrance-sensitive), and the willow bark extract (which warrants medical advice during pregnancy). If you're searching for a gentle, effective, clean beauty cleanser that works for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin without compromising on texture or ethics, Properly Clean belongs in your routine.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Lauryl Glucoside
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate
Cleansing
|
|