Retinal Skin Booster Serum
Retinal Skin Booster Serum
Product Description
A gentle yet effective Korean retinal serum from Meditherapy formulated with 0.01% nano-liposome encapsulated retinaldehyde, niacinamide, and a Cica Biome Complex of fermented Centella Asiatica probiotics. Designed for retinoid beginners and sensitive skin, this lightweight, watery essence-style serum targets fine lines, uneven texture, enlarged pores, and hyperpigmentation while strengthening the skin barrier β all in a generous 150ml multipurpose size for face and body.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Nano-Liposome Retinal Delivery
Encapsulated 0.01% retinaldehyde penetrates deeper while staying gentle. Up to 11x faster than retinol with one less conversion step to active retinoic acid.
Cica Biome Complex
Four plant-derived Centella Asiatica extracts plus patented Centella probiotics (Saccharomyces / Bifida ferments) calm irritation and reinforce the skin barrier.
Triple Vitamin Power (A+C+E)
Pairs retinal with stable Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, and Tocopherol for brightening and antioxidant defense.
Multi-Lipid Barrier Repair
Ceramide NP, cholesterol, and phytosterols mimic the skin's natural lipid matrix to lock in moisture and prevent retinoid-related dryness.
5-Layer Hydration System
Glycerin, Polyglycerin-3, Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, and PCA flood skin with moisture to counteract any retinoid-induced dryness.
Multipurpose Body Format
The generous 150ml dark pump bottle is large enough to use head-to-toe β face, neck, elbows, knees, and arms β at one of the lowest cost-per-ml ratios on the market.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains retinaldehyde (a vitamin A retinoid). All retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to systemic absorption concerns. Switch to bakuchiol or peptides instead.
Contains multiple ferments (Saccharomyces, Bifida Lysate), polysorbate-like emulsifiers, fatty acid esters, oils, and Tocopherol β all known triggers for malassezia overgrowth.
Fragrance-free, essential-oil free, and passed skin irritation testing with a 0.00 irritation index. Liposome encapsulation buffers retinal's typical sting.
Despite containing oils, the lightweight watery base and low concentrations keep pore-clogging risk minimal β rated 1/5. Acne-prone testers report no breakouts.
Retinal makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Daily SPF 30+ is mandatory. Use this serum only at night to maximize stability and effectiveness.
Avoid layering with strong AHAs/BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, or pure L-ascorbic acid in the same routine. Alternate nights to prevent over-exfoliation.
Even at 0.01%, retinaldehyde can cause initial purging or mild flaking. Apply a small amount to the inner forearm for 48 hours before full-face use.
Free of common allergens including parabens, sulfates, harsh alcohols, talc, lanolin, formaldehyde, MIT, and added phthalates per third-party SkinSAFE assessment.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Retinal (Retinaldehyde) 0.01% Proven
The hero active. Retinaldehyde is the direct precursor to retinoic acid (tretinoin) β meaning skin only needs ONE conversion step instead of two like retinol. Encapsulated in nano-liposomes for slow release.
- Potency: Studies suggest retinal works up to 11x faster than retinol, reaching equivalent results in roughly 1/3 of the time.
- Mechanism: Boosts cellular turnover, increases collagen synthesis, fades hyperpigmentation, and unclogs pores at the same time.
- Tolerance: At 0.01%, this is a true beginner concentration β effective without the typical retinization adjustment period.
π Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2% Proven
Listed 8th on the INCI β typically corresponding to roughly 2% concentration. Works synergistically with retinal to multiply anti-aging benefits while mitigating irritation.
- Barrier function: Increases ceramide synthesis and reduces transepidermal water loss.
- Pore appearance: Regulates sebum and visibly minimizes enlarged pores after 4β8 weeks.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer, fading dark spots and post-acne marks.
πΏ Cica Biome Complex Patented Promising
A multi-layered Centella Asiatica system: standard extract, leaf extract, root extract, plus the four signature actives β Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, and Asiatic Acid β paired with fermented probiotics (Bifida Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Ferment).
- Anti-inflammatory: Centellosides calm redness and downregulate inflammatory cytokines triggered by retinoids.
- Healing: Stimulates fibroblasts and accelerates wound repair β ideal for post-acne marks.
- Microbiome: Ferments help balance the skin's microbial flora and improve barrier resilience.
𧬠Stable Vitamin C Derivatives Dual Promising
Two complementary vitamin C forms: oil-soluble Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (ATIP) and water-soluble Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) β both more stable than pure L-ascorbic acid and gentle enough to layer with retinal.
- ATIP: Penetrates the lipid layer for antioxidant defense and brightening without sting.
- SAP: A 2009 double-blind study showed 5% SAP reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 48.82% in 8 weeks; combined with retinoids the effect rises to 63.10%.
- Synergy: Vitamin C + retinal is a well-studied pairing that enhances collagen synthesis.
𧱠Ceramide NP + Cholesterol + Phytosterols Lipid Trio Proven
The three core lipids found in healthy stratum corneum, present in optimal ratios to rebuild the skin's natural barrier matrix and prevent retinoid-induced dryness.
- Ceramide NP: Roughly 0.25β0.45% concentration β clinically meaningful for barrier repair.
- Cholesterol + Brassica Sterols: Replenish lipids that decline with age and active use.
- Result: Less flaking, peeling, or "retinol burn" during retinization.
π§ Hydration Stack Layered Proven
Five complementary humectants and water-binders: Glycerin (~4%), Polyglycerin-3 (~1.7%), Sodium Hyaluronate (~0.3%), Beta-Glucan, and PCA β each operating at different molecular weights and depths.
- Glycerin: The gold-standard humectant that plumps the surface within minutes.
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Holds up to 1000x its weight in water without stickiness.
- Beta-Glucan: Soothes, supports immune response, and adds long-lasting moisture.
π Adenosine + Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 Anti-Aging Duo Promising
A cell-communicating compound paired with a melanocyte-modulating peptide to amplify wrinkle-smoothing and even out tone.
- Adenosine: Korean MFDS-approved anti-wrinkle active that supports dermal collagen production.
- Acetyl Hexapeptide-1: A small signaling peptide associated with brightening and pigment regulation.
- Lactobionic Acid: A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates without barrier compromise.
πΎ Bonus Soothing Botanicals Layered Promising
A supporting cast of calming and antioxidant plant extracts that round out the formula: Avena Sativa (oat) kernel, green tea leaf water, kava (Piper Methysticum), artichoke leaf, polygonum cuspidatum (resveratrol source), and fig fruit extract.
- Oat: Anti-itch and anti-irritant; helps very reactive skin tolerate retinoids.
- Camellia Sinensis (green tea): Polyphenol-rich antioxidant that complements vitamins C and E.
- Carrot Seed Oil + Beta-Carotene: Provitamin A boosters supporting the retinoid pathway.
62 ingredients
Water, Methylpropanediol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Propanediol, Polyglycerin-3, Niacinamide, Phenyl Trimethicone, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Acrylic Acid/MA Copolymer, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Xanthan Gum, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Tromethamine, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Tocopherol, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Retinal, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Potentilla Anserina Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Polyquaternium-51, Cynara Scolymus Leaf Extract, Avena Sativa Kernel Extract, Beta-Glucan, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Piper Methysticum Leaf/Root/Stem Extract, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Ceramide NP, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Canola Oil, Myristyl Alcohol, PCA, Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Daucus Carota Sativa Seed Oil, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobionic Acid, Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Beta-Carotene, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Panthenol, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Sucrose Distearate, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply on clean, slightly damp skin as the first treatment step after toner. Use only at night to maximize retinal stability and avoid sun sensitivity. Always finish with SPF 30+ during the day.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Wash with a gentle pH-balanced cleanser, then apply your hydrating toner. Leave skin slightly damp β not dripping wet β for better absorption.
Dispense 2β3 Pumps
Pump the dark airless bottle 2β3 times into your palm. The fluid is naturally a soft yellow color from the retinal β that's normal and confirms freshness.
Pat Onto Face & Neck
Gently press into face, neck, and dΓ©colletΓ© using upward patting motions. Avoid the immediate eye area on the first weeks of use.
Wait 30β60 Seconds
Let the watery formula fully absorb before applying eye cream and moisturizer to seal it in. The serum dries to a soft, hydrated finish.
Start 2β3 Nights Per Week
For new retinoid users, start with 2β3 applications weekly for the first 2 weeks. Gradually increase to nightly as tolerated. Optional: extend use to elbows, knees, and arms.
Always Wear Daily SPF
Non-negotiable β apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning. Without sunscreen, retinal makes skin more prone to UV damage and pigmentation.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You're new to retinoids and want a low-irritation introduction
- You have sensitive or reactive skin that struggles with stronger retinols
- You want anti-aging results without the typical "retinization" peeling phase
- You're dealing with adult acne, post-acne marks, or texture concerns
- You appreciate value β 150ml lasts most users 2+ months
- You want a multipurpose serum for face, neck, and body (KP, rough patches)
- You prefer fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested K-beauty formulas
β Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive (avoid all retinoids)
- You have malassezia / fungal acne (ferments and oils may worsen it)
- You're already using prescription tretinoin or higher-strength retinoids
- You need a quick fix β retinal results take 8β12 weeks of consistent use
- You won't commit to daily sunscreen during the day
- You're sensitive to silicones (formula contains Phenyl Trimethicone)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Watery, lightweight texture absorbs without adding shine. Niacinamide + retinal regulate sebum and refine pores.
Five humectants plus ceramides offset typical retinoid dryness, but layer with a richer cream on top in winter.
Balances T-zone shine while delivering moisture to drier cheeks. The perfect bridge formula for combo skin.
0.00 irritation index, fragrance-free, and Cica Biome-loaded. One of the gentlest retinal options on the market.
Non-comedogenic and clinically helpful for adult acne. Note: not fungal-acne safe due to ferments and esters.
Retinal + adenosine + peptides + vitamin C + ceramides hit every anti-aging pathway. Ideal for first-time mature retinoid users.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels softer, plumper, and more moisturized after the first application. The five-humectant base delivers instant comfort without any retinoid sting.
~92% notice immediate hydrationSmoother Texture & Pore Refinement
Niacinamide and gentle PHA (lactobionic acid) start refining surface texture. Pores look tighter, mild rough patches smooth, and skin reflects light more evenly.
~75% see texture improvementBrighter Tone & Faded Marks
The vitamin C duo and retinal start working on hyperpigmentation. Post-acne dark spots and dullness fade noticeably. Skin looks more radiant.
~68% notice brighter, more even toneVisible Anti-Aging Results
Fine lines (especially around eyes and forehead) appear softened. Skin feels firmer thanks to enhanced collagen turnover from retinaldehyde and adenosine.
~62% see fine line reductionFull Transformation
Long-term users report a noticeably more refined, glowing, "glass-skin" complexion. Acne breakouts decrease, scars fade, and skin tone evens out significantly.
~70% report long-term satisfactionβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exceptional value β 150ml at a sub-$25 price point
- Truly gentle: most users report zero irritation, even sensitive skin
- Beginner-friendly retinal concentration with no harsh "retinization" period
- Multipurpose use on body (great for KP, rough elbows/knees)
- Loaded with bonus actives (vit C, ceramides, peptides, niacinamide)
- Fragrance-free and minimalist on common allergens
- Lightweight watery texture absorbs in seconds
- Dark airless pump protects retinal stability
β Criticized
- 0.01% retinal is too low for advanced retinoid users
- Results are subtle and require 8β12 weeks of consistency
- Ferments and esters make it unsuitable for fungal acne
- Not pregnancy/breastfeeding compatible
- Pump can be tricky to extract the last 5β10ml
- Label printing quality occasionally uneven on the bottle
- Brand visibility outside Korea is still limited compared to giants like COSRX
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Higher 0.05% retinal concentration (5x stronger), so better for experienced users β but 30ml only and richer cream texture, less suited for very sensitive skin.
Same Korean retinal-for-beginners philosophy with ginseng for radiance. Tiny 30ml size and eye-area focused, but identical gentle approach.
Cheapest entry to retinal but at 0.2% it's much stronger and requires slow ramp-up. No Cica complex, far fewer supporting actives, and only 15ml.
Uses encapsulated retinol (not retinal) plus niacinamide and ceramides. Less potent and slower-acting, but a trusted drugstore alternative for beginners.
π Comparison with Competitors
Meditherapy Retinal Skin Booster Serum (Featured)
~$21Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
~$70Avene RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
~$60The INKEY List Retinal 0.05% Serum
~$25π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Retinaldehyde is light- and air-sensitive β finish within 12M for full potency.
Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Optional refrigeration extends retinal stability.
Dark opaque pump bottle (17.6cm tall, 4.2cm diameter) β minimizes light exposure for retinal stability.
150ml exceeds the standard 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into a smaller bottle for flights, or pack in checked luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. This serum contains retinaldehyde (retinal), which belongs to the vitamin A retinoid family. All retinoids β including retinol, retinal, and tretinoin β are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential systemic absorption and links to birth defects. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or nursing, switch to retinoid alternatives such as bakuchiol, peptides, or vitamin C serums and consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before resuming use.
No. This formula contains several ingredients known to feed malassezia yeast: Bifida Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Ferment, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Macadamia Seed Oil, Helianthus (sunflower) Seed Oil, Carrot Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, and various fatty acid esters. If you have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis), look for stripped-down retinoid formulas free of esters, oils, and ferments β such as The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid in Squalane (squalane is FA-safe).
Use carefully. Don't pair with prescription tretinoin or other strong retinoids in the same routine β that's overkill. The formula already contains gentle vitamin C derivatives (ATIP, SAP), so you don't need an additional C serum. AHAs/BHAs and pure L-ascorbic acid should be alternated on different nights to prevent over-exfoliation. A simple split: this serum on Mon/Wed/Fri nights, exfoliating acid on Tue/Thu, rest day on weekends. Always layer with hydrating moisturizer on top and SPF 30+ in the morning.
This serum is genuinely all-skin-type friendly, but it shines brightest for sensitive, oily, combination, and beginner-retinoid skin. The watery texture is ideal for oily and combo types; the Cica Biome Complex makes it one of the gentlest retinal options for sensitive skin; and the low 0.01% concentration is perfect for first-time retinoid users. Mature skin also benefits from the layered anti-aging actives (retinal + adenosine + peptides + vitamin C). Dry skin types should layer a richer cream on top.
Expect a phased timeline: 1 week for hydration and softer texture; 2β4 weeks for refined pores and smoother surface; 4β8 weeks for brighter tone and faded post-acne marks; 8β12 weeks for visible reduction in fine lines and improved firmness. Retinaldehyde works on cellular turnover that takes around 28 days per cycle, so consistency matters more than frequency. Most studies on retinoids require at least 6 weeks of regular use before significant changes are measurable.
Apply at night only, after cleansing and toning, before eye cream and moisturizer. Order: cleanser β toner β this serum β eye cream β moisturizer. Skip exfoliating toners on retinal nights to avoid layering acids on retinoids. In the morning, finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ β this is non-negotiable while using any retinoid. Wait 30β60 seconds after applying for the watery formula to fully absorb before layering the next product.
No β it rates 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Despite containing some oils (Macadamia, Carrot Seed, Sunflower), the lightweight watery base and very low concentrations keep pore-clogging risk minimal. The brand reports a 0.00 irritation index from clinical testing, and acne-prone testers consistently report zero new breakouts. Note: "non-comedogenic" doesn't mean "fungal-acne safe" β those are different concerns.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. Retinaldehyde is light- and air-sensitive, so the dark airless pump bottle is essential for stability. Keep upright, away from direct sunlight, and at room temperature (or refrigerated for extended freshness). At average use of 2β3 pumps per night, one 150ml bottle typically lasts 2β3 months β well within the PAO window.
Verdict: The Meditherapy Retinal Skin Booster Serum is one of the best value-driven entry points into retinaldehyde skincare. The 0.01% encapsulated retinal β paired with niacinamide, a robust Cica Biome Complex, ceramides, peptides, and dual vitamin C derivatives β delivers gentle, multi-pathway anti-aging benefits without the typical retinization purge. The generous 150ml bottle at a sub-$25 price makes it perhaps the lowest cost-per-ml retinal serum on the K-beauty market, and the multipurpose face-and-body design adds practical utility (especially for KP). It loses half a star only because the very low retinal percentage is too gentle for advanced retinoid users, and the formula isn't pregnancy- or fungal-acne-safe. For sensitive skin, retinoid beginners, and budget-conscious shoppers seeking a thoughtful K-beauty formulation β this is an exceptional buy.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 9 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 9 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
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Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
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|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
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|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
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Hydrating
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