Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Product Description
Product overview
A bestselling, award-winning daily facial sunscreen from Tula Skincare that delivers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection while leaving skin with a gorgeous dewy glow. Powered by a unique prebiotic superblend, probiotic extracts, pineapple, papaya, and wild butterfly ginger root, this lightweight gel protects against UV rays, pollution, and blue light — all without white cast or grease. It's not just sunscreen; it's skincare in one effortless step.
Triple UV Defense
Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), and Octisalate (5%) combine to provide reliable broad-spectrum UVA + UVB protection that helps prevent sunburn and premature aging.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple UV Defense
Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), and Octisalate (5%) combine to provide reliable broad-spectrum UVA + UVB protection that helps prevent sunburn and premature aging.
Prebiotic Microbiome Support
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate (probiotic lysate) and prebiotic extracts nourish the skin's microbiome, strengthen the barrier, and visibly improve smoothness over time.
Pineapple & Papaya Brightening
Natural fruit enzymes from pineapple (Ananas Sativus) and papaya (Carica Papaya) promote a visibly even skin tone and a naturally luminous complexion.
Blue Light & Pollution Shield
Wild Butterfly Ginger Root (Hedychium Coronarium) extract and antioxidants like Tocopherol (Vitamin E) and green tea help neutralize environmental aggressors from screens and pollution.
Instant Glow + No White Cast
Mica and Synthetic Fluorphlogopite give skin a luminous, diffused glow without any white residue. 100% of users in clinical trials reported no white cast after just one use.
Ectoin & Hydroxyectoin Stress Protection
These rare extremophile-derived molecules form a protective shield around skin cells, guarding against environmental stress, UV-induced damage, and inflammation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters Avobenzone, Homosalate, and Octisalate. Homosalate has shown weak estrogenic activity in some in-vitro studies. While no conclusive human data confirms harm, many dermatologists recommend mineral-only sunscreens during pregnancy. Consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use. Tula recommends consulting a doctor for individual guidance.
This formula does not contain fatty acids, fatty acid esters (laurates, myristates, palmitates), polysorbates, or other Malassezia-feeding ingredients. The ferment used (Lactococcus Ferment Lysate) is a bacterial lysate — not a fungal ferment — and is generally considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Officially certified non-comedogenic by the brand. Key ingredients like Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, and Silica score 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. No heavy oils, waxes, or high-rating comedogenic ingredients. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate — the two chemical UV filters most commonly banned in reef-protection legislation (Hawaii, Key West, Palau). Safe to use in ocean environments.
Tula Skincare is certified cruelty-free by Cruelty Free Kitty. The formula contains no animal-derived ingredients and is fully vegan.
Certified gluten-free. Free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and mineral oil. Contains no synthetic fragrance — the natural scent comes entirely from botanical extracts in the formula.
Preserved with Phenoxyethanol and Sodium Benzoate — both widely-accepted, low-risk preservatives. However, those with meibomian gland dysfunction should use care near the eye area, as Phenoxyethanol may be irritating to eyelids in sensitive individuals.
This formula is not sweat-proof or water-resistant. Tula recommends switching to a water-resistant SPF for swimming, outdoor sports, or heavy perspiration activities.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane) 3%Active — Proven
The gold-standard chemical UVA filter. Avobenzone absorbs across a wide UVA range (320–400 nm) and is one of the few filters approved in the US for full-spectrum UVA protection. At 3% — the maximum allowed in the US — it provides the highest level of UVA defense in chemical sunscreen systems.
- Function: Broad-spectrum UVA absorption (peak at 357 nm)
- Concentration: 3% (maximum US-approved level)
- Stability: Inherently photounstable — stabilized in this formula by Homosalate and Octisalate which act as solubilizers and photostabilizers
- Source: Synthetic organic molecule; oil-soluble
Homosalate 10%Active — Proven
A UVB-absorbing chemical filter that also acts as a critical solubilizer for Avobenzone — keeping the formula stable and fluid. At 10% concentration, it contributes meaningful UVB protection while enabling the lightweight gel texture.
- Function: UVB absorption (295–315 nm), Avobenzone solubilizer
- Concentration: 10% (max allowed in US and EU)
- SPF Contribution: Provides approximately SPF 4.3 at max concentration
Octisalate (Ethylhexyl Salicylate) 5%Active — Proven
A UVB-absorbing ester that enhances SPF and helps solubilize Avobenzone. Octisalate is one of the most well-tolerated chemical UV filters and has an excellent safety record. At 5%, it contributes to the final SPF value while improving formula spreadability.
- Function: UVB absorption (280–320 nm), texture enhancer
- Concentration: 5% (US-approved level)
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated; low irritation potential
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate ~2–4%Promising
TULA's signature probiotic-derived ingredient. This is the cellular debris of Lactococcus (a lactic acid bacterium), not a live culture. It visibly improves skin smoothness, helps strengthen the skin barrier, and supports a balanced microbiome environment.
- Function: Microbiome support, skin barrier reinforcement, anti-inflammatory
- Clinical Evidence: Referenced in multiple brand clinical studies showing improved skin texture and hydration
- Note: Does not contain live cultures — safe for immunocompromised users
Ectoin & Hydroxyectoin ~0.1–1%Proven
Two closely related extremolytes derived from microorganisms that survive extreme environments. They form a liquid crystalline protective layer around skin cells, shielding against UV radiation, heat stress, and environmental damage. Hydroxyectoin is particularly effective at stabilizing proteins in skin cells under stress.
- Function: Cell protection, anti-inflammatory, barrier support, UV-stress defense
- Research: Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm cytoprotective effects
- Origin: Biotechnology-derived from halophilic bacteria (Halomonas elongata)
Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) & Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extracts ~0.5–2%Promising
These tropical fruit extracts contain bromelain (pineapple) and papain (papaya) — natural proteolytic enzymes that gently promote skin cell renewal, help even skin tone, and add antioxidant benefits. They contribute to the formula's brightening and glow-enhancing effects.
- Function: Gentle enzymatic exfoliation, brightening, antioxidant
- Key Enzymes: Bromelain (pineapple), Papain (papaya)
- Effect: Promotes visibly even skin tone with regular use
Hedychium Coronarium (Wild Butterfly Ginger) Root Extract ~0.1–1%Promising
The star botanical in TULA's anti-pollution complex. This rare ginger root extract is rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds that neutralize free radicals from blue light and environmental pollution. It helps minimize the oxidative stress that accelerates skin aging.
- Function: Blue light defense, anti-pollution, antioxidant
- Origin: Native to South and Southeast Asia; tropical flowering plant
- Benefit: Protects skin from indoor and outdoor environmental aggressors
Mica & Synthetic Fluorphlogopite ~0.5–2%Proven
These light-reflecting minerals create the formula's signature luminous, dewy-glow finish without shimmer or sparkle. Synthetic Fluorphlogopite is a lab-made mica that provides a more uniform, skin-safe alternative to natural mica — free from heavy metal contamination concerns.
- Function: Optical brightening, skin-tone diffusion, glow effect
- Synthetic Fluorphlogopite: More consistent particle size; heavy-metal-free vs. natural mica
- Effect: Creates soft-focus, non-sparkly luminosity on skin
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Pure, oil-soluble Vitamin E. A powerful lipid antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps stabilize other formula ingredients. Works synergistically with the botanical antioxidants to extend protection.
- Function: Antioxidant, barrier support, formula stabilizer
- Research: Extensively documented skin-protective effects against UV-induced oxidative stress
Glycerin & Pentylene Glycol ~2–5% combinedProven
Glycerin is one of the most effective humectants in skincare, drawing moisture to the skin's surface and helping maintain healthy hydration levels. Pentylene Glycol acts as both a humectant and an occlusive, reducing transepidermal water loss while enhancing penetration of other actives.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning, moisture retention
- Glycerin: Well-documented hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredient
- Pentylene Glycol: Also functions as a mild preservative booster and penetration enhancer
40 ingredients · Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%
Avobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane), Homosalate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate (Octisalate), Aqua/Water, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Pentylene Glycol, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Silica, Ectoin, Glycerin, Arginine, Hydroxyectoin, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Lactic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hedychium Coronarium Root Extract, Triethyl Citrate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Pimpinella Anisum Fruit Extract, Mica, Tocopherol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein/PVP Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide, Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide, Propanediol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tin Oxide, Phenoxyethanol. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as thelast step in your AM skincare routine, on top of moisturizer. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours. Can be worn alone for a natural glowy look or layered under primer and makeup.
How to use
HOW TO USEComplete Your AM Skincare Routine
Apply your cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer first. Allow each layer to absorb before moving to the next step. SPF should always be the final skincare product applied.
Dispense a Generous Amount
Apply a generous and even amount to your entire face and neck. For adequate sun protection, do not skimp — most people under-apply sunscreen, which reduces the effective SPF significantly. A nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) is recommended for the face.
Smooth and Blend
Use your fingertips to spread the gel evenly across your face in upward circular motions. The gel blends quickly into skin, leaving a luminous dewy finish — no rubbing in required for extended periods. Apply at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Layer Makeup On Top (Optional)
Once absorbed, apply primer, foundation, or other makeup as desired. The formula wears exceptionally well under makeup without pilling. Wearing primer on top of SPF is perfectly fine.
Reapply Every 2 Hours
Reapply every two hours when exposed to sunlight. This product is not water-resistant — if swimming or sweating heavily, switch to a water-resistant SPF product and reapply after toweling off.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want daily sun protection that doubles as skincare
- You love a natural dewy, glowing finish without makeup
- You struggle to find a sunscreen that doesn't feel greasy
- You have normal, combination, dry, or acne-prone skin
- You're concerned about blue light and pollution damage from screens
- You want a non-comedogenic formula that won't clog pores
- You prefer cruelty-free, vegan, reef-safe products
- You want hydrating SPF you can wear without a separate moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and prefer mineral-only sunscreens
- You want water/sweat-resistant protection for sports or swimming
- You have very oily skin prone to midday shine (the dewy finish may increase oiliness)
- You prefer a matte finish or invisible/no-finish sunscreen
- You want SPF 50+ for high UV-index environments or extended outdoor use
- You have a severe chemical sunscreen sensitivity or allergy
- You need a sunscreen safe for full-body use (this is face-specific)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The lightweight gel sinks in seamlessly, provides comfortable hydration, and enhances skin's natural glow without altering skin balance.
Glycerin and Pentylene Glycol provide good hydration. On very dry days, apply a slightly richer moisturizer underneath — the gel may not be enough standalone moisture for very dry skin types.
The gel formula balances well across different facial zones. Non-greasy and lightweight on the T-zone while providing enough dewiness for drier cheek areas.
The dewy finish may amplify shine on very oily skin types. Use with a setting powder or opt for a mattifying sunscreen if midday oiliness is a concern. However, many oily-skin users find it acceptable with blotting.
Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, and common allergens. The light botanical scent may bother extremely reactive skin — patch test recommended. Ectoin has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that benefit sensitive skin.
Non-comedogenic certified. Oil-free gel texture won't clog pores. Fungal acne safe. Probiotic extracts help balance the skin microbiome to reduce inflammation over time.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Glow & No White Cast
Skin immediately appears more luminous and dewy. The lightweight gel absorbs quickly without residue, grease, or visible sunscreen film. Can be worn alone for a natural finish.
100% reported no white cast (Brand clinical, n=33)Improved Texture & Hydration
Regular users report skin feeling smoother and more supple. The probiotic lysate and humectants begin to support the skin barrier. Formula wears comfortably throughout the day without feeling greasy.
93% agreed skin did not feel greasy after 2 weeks (Brand clinical, n=33)Skin Feels Protected & More Even
Consistent daily use begins to show cumulative benefits — more even-looking skin tone from pineapple/papaya enzymes and sun protection preventing new hyperpigmentation. Microbiome support from prebiotic extracts becomes more apparent.
90% agreed skin felt protected and healthy (Brand clinical, n=33)Long-Term Glow & Anti-Aging Benefits
Daily SPF use is the single most effective anti-aging measure available. Consistent protection from UVA/UVB prevents the formation of new dark spots, fine lines, and premature aging. Ectoin's cytoprotective effects accumulate over time to strengthen resilience.
Dermatologists confirm daily SPF is #1 skin aging preventionRatings by platform
19K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Delivers a genuine, beautiful dewy glow without shimmer or glitter
- Zero white cast on all skin tones — confirmed by 100% of clinical subjects
- Exceptionally lightweight; feels like wearing nothing
- Non-greasy formula; layers seamlessly under makeup without pilling
- Non-comedogenic; trusted by acne-prone skin users
- Unique skincare ingredients (probiotics, ectoin, botanicals) elevate it beyond basic SPF
- Reef-safe, cruelty-free, vegan, and gluten-free
- Multiple platform award winner; dermatologist and influencer endorsed
- Pleasant natural scent from botanical extracts
Criticized
- Only SPF 30 — dermatologists typically recommend SPF 50+ for daily protection
- Not water-resistant or sweat-proof — needs switching for active use
- Chemical UV filters may be a concern for those who prefer mineral-only sunscreen
- Homosalate has in-vitro hormonal activity concerns — caution for pregnancy
- Dewy finish can be too shiny for very oily skin types
- Natural scent (from botanicals) may not suit fragrance-sensitive users
- Premium price point (~$36–$38 for 1.7 oz) vs. comparable drugstore SPFs
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A drugstore dupe that delivers a similar glowy, dewy finish with SPF 30. Contains Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane for hydration. Lacks the probiotic/ectoin actives and has a simpler formula, but provides the same glow-and-protect concept at a fraction of the cost. Available in 3 shades.
Shares the lightweight gel format and SPF 30 protection. Powered by Hyaluronic Acid for intense hydration. Lacks the glow-enhancing mica minerals and probiotic actives of TULA, but is an excellent drugstore option for those who prioritize hydration over the luminous finish.
A mid-range alternative that is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and reef-safe like the TULA. Uses mineral Zinc Oxide instead of chemical filters — a better choice for pregnancy. Lacks the glow effect and probiotic skincare ingredients but offers cleaner sun protection at a lower price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDETULA Protect + Glow SPF 30
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging for confirmation. Discard if the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving in a hot car or direct sunlight — heat can destabilize UV filters, particularly Avobenzone, and alter the gel's texture over time.
Available in a pump bottle (1.7 fl oz / 50 ml regular size and 3.38 fl oz / 100 ml supersize). The pump dispenser delivers hygienic, controlled portions and minimizes oxidation of the formula.
Yes — the 1.7 oz (50 ml) size is well under the TSA 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. The pump bottle is secure and suitable for travel. The 3.38 oz supersize exceeds carry-on limits but is great for checked luggage or home use.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis is a nuanced question. Protect + Glow contains chemical UV filters — Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), and Octisalate (5%). Of these, Homosalate has shown weak estrogenic activity in some in-vitro laboratory studies, though this has not been replicated in real human studies. Many dermatologists recommend mineral-only sunscreens (containing only Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide) during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Tula itself recommends consulting your OB/GYN or dermatologist for personal guidance. If you prefer to err on the side of caution, consider switching to a mineral SPF during pregnancy.
Yes — this formula is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The ferment ingredient is Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, which is a bacterial lysate (from lactic acid bacteria), not a yeast or fungal ferment. Malassezia feeds on fatty acids, fatty acid esters, and polysorbates — none of which are present in this formula. There are no laurates, myristates, stearates, or polysorbates in the ingredient list. The formula does not contain any oils that could trigger fungal acne flare-ups.
Yes, with some simple scheduling. Retinol and exfoliating acids (AHAs like glycolic/lactic acid; BHAs like salicylic acid) are best used in your PM routine and not combined with SPF. Protect + Glow is an AM product — apply it as your final skincare step in the morning after your moisturizer. Vitamin C serums can be layered under SPF during the day; apply your Vitamin C first, allow it to absorb, follow with moisturizer, then apply Protect + Glow on top. This is a perfectly safe and even recommended layering order. The small amount of Lactic Acid in this formula is at conditioning (not exfoliating) concentrations.
Protect + Glow is officially recommended by Tula for normal, dry, combination, acne-prone, and mature skin. It performs best on normal-to-dry and combination skin due to its dewy, glowing finish. Those with oily skin can certainly use it, but the luminous finish may add additional shine — some oily-skin users pair it with a light setting powder on top. The formula is non-comedogenic and has been well-received by acne-prone users. Sensitive skin users generally tolerate it well, though very fragrance-reactive individuals should patch-test first due to the natural botanical scent.
The glow effect is immediate — visible from the very first application. The absence of white cast and non-greasy feel are instant. Within 2 weeks of daily use, most users report improved skin texture and that skin feels more supple and hydrated. Longer-term benefits from sun protection — prevention of new dark spots, preserved skin firmness, and reduced signs of photoaging — build over months and years of consistent daily SPF use. The probiotic and ectoin actives contribute to microbiome health and barrier strength over several weeks of consistent application.
Always apply as the last step in your AM skincare routine — after cleanser, toner, serums, eye cream, and moisturizer. SPF should always be your final skincare product before makeup. Apply at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. To layer makeup, you can apply primer and foundation directly on top of the SPF once it has absorbed (about 30–60 seconds). This product is for morning use only — do not use at night as a moisturizer.
No — Protect + Glow is officially certified as non-comedogenic by Tula Skincare. The formula is an oil-free, lightweight gel that does not contain heavy waxes, lanolin, coconut oil, or other high-comedogenic-rating ingredients. Key ingredients like Silica, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, and Propanediol all rate 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. The overall comedogenic rating of this formula is approximately 1 out of 5. It has been widely used by acne-prone skin consumers without triggering breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Protect + Glow is 12 months. Look for the open jar icon on the packaging with the number 12M. After opening, store in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight to maintain the integrity of the UV filters — particularly Avobenzone, which can degrade with heat and light exposure. If you notice any change in color, texture, or scent, discontinue use. A 1.7 oz bottle used daily as recommended (a nickel-sized amount) should last approximately 2–3 months of daily use.
Verdict: The Tula Skincare Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel SPF 30 earns its status as one of the most beloved daily face sunscreens in the US market. It excels where most sunscreens fail: it feels genuinely pleasant to wear. The lightweight, non-greasy gel formula absorbs instantly, leaves zero white cast, and delivers a beautiful natural-looking dewy glow that flatters every skin tone. Beyond the cosmetic experience, it delivers real skincare benefits through probiotic lysates, ectoin, and a thoughtful botanical complex — making it a legitimate 2-in-1 SPF and skincare product. The brand's reef-safe, cruelty-free, vegan formulation adds further appeal. The main caveats are the SPF 30 protection level (dermatologists often recommend SPF 50+), the lack of water resistance, chemical filter use requiring caution in pregnancy, and a premium price tag. For daily urban and indoor-outdoor use on normal, combination, dry, or acne-prone skin, this is an outstanding daily SPF that you'll actually look forward to applying every morning.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 4 |
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|