Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream
Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream
Product Description
Product overview
The Olay Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream by Olay is a fragrance-free, silky eye cream powered by a proprietary Vitamin B3 + Retinol 24 Hydrating Complex. Formulated to work overnight, it visibly reduces fine lines, crow's feet, dark circles, and puffiness while deeply hydrating the delicate skin around the eyes — so you wake up to smoother, brighter, younger-looking eyes.
Overnight Retinol Transformation
Retinol and Retinyl Propionate work synergistically overnight to accelerate skin-cell turnover, visibly smoothing crow's feet and fine lines while you sleep.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOvernight Retinol Transformation
Retinol and Retinyl Propionate work synergistically overnight to accelerate skin-cell turnover, visibly smoothing crow's feet and fine lines while you sleep.
Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) Brightening
Niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer to reduce the appearance of dark circles and uneven skin tone around the eyes over time.
24-Hour Deep Hydration
A silicone-glycerin complex locks in moisture for a full 24 hours, leaving the delicate eye area plump, supple, and visibly refreshed by morning.
Vitamin E Antioxidant Defense
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) neutralizes free radicals from environmental stressors, helping to prevent premature aging and oxidative damage around the eye area.
Virtually No Irritation Formula
The buffered retinol system combined with silicone emollients means this cream is gentle enough for nightly use even on sensitive eye areas, tested by ophthalmologists.
Clean Formulation
Free from fragrance, mineral oil, phthalates, parabens, and synthetic dyes — making it suitable for even the most reactive and sensitive skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis product contains Retinol and Retinyl Propionate — both retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential teratogenic effects. Consult your physician before use.
Contains Polysorbate 20, a fatty acid ester that can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) in susceptible individuals. Not recommended if you have FA-prone skin.
The primary emollients are silicone-based (Dimethicone, Dimethiconol) rather than pore-clogging oils. Very low comedogenic risk — unlikely to cause breakouts around the eye area.
Formulated without any added fragrances or synthetic dyes, making it appropriate for reactive and sensitive skin types prone to fragrance sensitization.
This preservative slowly releases small amounts of formaldehyde to prevent microbial growth. Concentrations in cosmetics are very low and considered safe by regulatory agencies, but may cause sensitivity in some users.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. This product is formulated for nighttime use only. Always apply SPF moisturizer in the morning when using retinol products.
Free from parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil — meets modern clean beauty standards and is rated Teen SAFE by SkinSAFE.
Clinically tested by ophthalmologists for eye area safety. Suitable for contact lens wearers, though avoid direct contact with the eyes themselves.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) Top IngredientBase
The primary solvent and base of the formula, constituting the majority of the product. Provides hydration and acts as the carrier for all active ingredients, enabling their penetration into the skin surface.
- Function: Universal solvent, humectant carrier, texture moderator
- Position in list: #1 — highest concentration in the formula
Dimethicone #2 in listProven
A silicone polymer that forms a breathable, protective film over the skin. Creates the signature silky, non-greasy texture of this eye cream while locking in moisture and shielding the delicate eye area from transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Function: Emollient, occlusive, skin protectant, texture agent
- Comedogenic Rating: 1/5 — extremely low pore-clogging risk
- Clinical backing: FDA-approved skin protectant; widely used in ophthalmologically tested eye formulas
Glycerin #3 in listProven
One of the most well-researched humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, maintaining lasting hydration for 24 hours and supporting the skin's natural moisture barrier in the thin periorbital skin.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Research: Studies confirm glycerin hydrates as effectively as hyaluronic acid in certain formulations
- Skin barrier: Helps restore lipid-deficient skin around the eyes
Retinol ~0.1–0.3% est.Proven
The gold-standard OTC anti-aging active. Retinol converts to retinoic acid in the skin, stimulating collagen synthesis, accelerating cell turnover, and reducing the visible depth of crow's feet and periorbital fine lines. Listed at position #5 in the formula — a relatively high placement for an OTC product.
- Mechanism: Binds to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) to upregulate collagen I & III genes
- Clinical data: Multiple double-blind trials confirm visible reduction in periorbital wrinkles at concentrations of 0.1%–0.3% over 12 weeks
- Cell turnover: Increases epidermal renewal rate, improving skin texture and tone
Retinyl Propionate ~0.1–0.3% est.Proven
Olay's proprietary retinoid ester that works alongside retinol. A P&G-developed ingredient backed by independent clinical research showing it performs comparably to tretinoin in some anti-wrinkle metrics, with significantly less irritation. Together with retinol, it forms the "Retinol 24" complex.
- Research: A 12-week double-blind trial (Draelos et al.) showed 0.3% Retinyl Propionate outperformed 0.15% retinol in wrinkle reduction
- P&G data: Comparable results to 0.02% tretinoin with better tolerance and faster onset
- Synergy: Works alongside retinol for a dual-retinoid approach unique to the Olay Retinol 24 line
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–5% est.Proven
A multifunctional powerhouse that brightens, firms, and strengthens the skin. In the eye area, niacinamide is particularly valued for reducing the appearance of dark circles by inhibiting melanin transfer to keratinocytes, as well as improving skin barrier integrity and reducing redness.
- Dark circles: Inhibits melanosome transfer; reduces hyperpigmentation under the eyes
- Barrier support: Increases ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis in the stratum corneum
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces cytokine production, calming reactive periorbital skin
- Pore appearance: Regulates sebum production, minimizing the look of pores
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) ~0.5–1% est.Proven
The stabilized ester form of Vitamin E. Acts as a fat-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution, protecting retinol from oxidative degradation in the formula while delivering anti-aging benefits to the skin.
- Antioxidant: Quenches reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lipid bilayer
- Stability: Extends retinol shelf life within the formula
- Synergy: Works with niacinamide for enhanced photoprotection and brightening
Dimethicone Crosspolymer EmulsifierSupporting
A crosslinked silicone that gives the eye cream its distinctive rich-but-lightweight, non-tacky texture. Helps stabilize the water-silicone emulsion and creates a smooth, even application experience around the delicate eye area.
- Function: Emulsion stabilizer, texture modifier, skin conditioner
- Benefit: Prevents the "heavy" feeling associated with traditional eye creams
Dimethiconol EmollientSupporting
A silicone-based conditioning agent that adds a soft, velvety finish to the skin. Reduces surface friction and imparts a polished appearance to fine lines upon application, providing instant cosmetic smoothing alongside long-term retinol benefits.
- Function: Emollient, skin-conditioning agent, surface smoother
- Instant effect: Visually blurs fine lines immediately upon application
Polyacrylamide + C13-14 Isoparaffin + Laureth-7 Emulsifier SystemSupporting
This three-component emulsifier and thickener system (commonly known as Sepigel 305) stabilizes the water-in-silicone emulsion that gives this cream its unique lightweight-yet-rich texture. It ensures uniform distribution of actives and a smooth application experience.
- Function: Emulsifier, thickener, texture stabilizer
- Safety: Well-tolerated, inert delivery system; Laureth-7 may concern those with polysorbate sensitivities
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer + Aminomethyl Propanol Stabilizer PairSupporting
A rheology modifier (carbomer-type) and its neutralizing base that work together to thicken and stabilize the cream, ensuring consistent texture throughout the product's shelf life and maintaining the ideal pH for retinol stability (pH 5.5–6.5).
- Function: Thickener, emulsion stabilizer, pH adjuster
- Retinol stability: Proper pH maintenance is critical for retinol efficacy
DMDM Hydantoin + Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate PreservativesCaution
The dual preservative system used to prevent microbial contamination and extend shelf life. DMDM Hydantoin is a formaldehyde releaser; concentrations in cosmetics are well below safety thresholds set by the EU and FDA, but sensitive individuals may experience reactions.
- DMDM Hydantoin: Formaldehyde-releasing preservative; max allowed 0.6% in EU, 0.074% formaldehyde release
- IPBC: Broad-spectrum antifungal/antibacterial preservative
- Safety: Both are approved by FDA and EU cosmetics regulations at standard cosmetic use levels
Titanium Dioxide Opacity AgentSupporting
Used here as an opacifier to give the cream its white, creamy appearance rather than as a UV filter (no SPF claim). Also provides a subtle optical brightening effect on dark circles when applied around the eyes.
- Function: Opacifier, colorant, light diffuser
- Cosmetic benefit: Instantly brightens and conceals darkness in the periorbital area
20 ingredients
Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Retinol, Retinyl Propionate, Niacinamide, Tocopheryl Acetate, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Dimethiconol, Polysorbate 20, Laureth-4, Laureth-7, Disodium EDTA, Polyacrylamide, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Titanium Dioxide, DMDM Hydantoin, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply eye cream after serums and before your main moisturizer. Use fingertip or ring finger to gently pat around the orbital bone — never drag. Nighttime use only. Follow with SPF moisturizer in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove all makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat dry with a clean towel. This prepares the skin for maximum absorption of active ingredients.
Apply Any Serums First
Apply your toner and any facial serums (vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, etc.) before the eye cream. Allow each layer to absorb for 30–60 seconds.
Dispense a Small Amount
Using clean fingertips, take a pea-sized amount (approximately a rice grain per eye). A little goes a long way — overapplication will not accelerate results and may cause irritation.
Gently Pat Around the Eye Area
Using your ring finger (lightest pressure), gently dot and pat the cream along the orbital bone — under the eye from inner to outer corner, and along the brow bone. Avoid applying directly on the eyelids or too close to the lash line.
Allow to Absorb, Then Moisturize
Let the eye cream absorb for about 30 seconds, then apply your regular night moisturizer to the rest of your face. The eye cream can be used every night.
Morning: Apply SPF Moisturizer
Because this product contains retinol, always use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ moisturizer the following morning to protect your newly sensitized skin from UV damage.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to address crow's feet, fine lines, and wrinkles around the eyes
- You're new to retinol and want a gentle, buffered introduction
- You have dark circles or uneven tone around the eye area
- You have sensitive skin that can't tolerate fragrances or dyes
- You prefer a drugstore-priced product with clinical-grade actives
- You want a non-greasy, fast-absorbing eye cream for nighttime use
- You're 30+ and starting to see early signs of periorbital aging
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (retinoids are contraindicated)
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) concerns — Polysorbate 20 is present
- You need a daytime eye cream — this is nighttime use only
- You have eczema or known formaldehyde sensitivity (DMDM Hydantoin)
- You need a dedicated eye cream with peptides or hyaluronic acid as primary actives
- You want prescription-strength retinoid results — see a dermatologist
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match — the silicone-based formula absorbs perfectly, delivering all actives without disrupting a healthy skin barrier.
Lightweight, non-greasy silicone base is perfect for oily skin types. Won't contribute to shine or clog pores around the eye area.
Provides good hydration with glycerin and silicones. Very dry skin may benefit from layering a richer eye balm over the top for added occlusion.
The balanced formula works well in the periorbital area regardless of oily T-zones — silicone carrier doesn't migrate or exacerbate combination concerns.
Fragrance-free and dye-free formula is suitable for most sensitive skin. Patch test recommended. Start every other night if new to retinol. DMDM Hydantoin may concern very reactive skin.
Results timeline
3–6 MONTHSInstant Hydration & Optical Smoothing
The silicone emollients and Titanium Dioxide instantly blur the appearance of fine lines and create a smooth, plump look around the eyes. Skin feels noticeably softer and more supple by morning.
89% noticed softer skin after first useImproved Hydration & Radiance
Niacinamide and glycerin begin to visibly brighten the undereye area and reduce mild dark circles. Many users report waking up to eyes that look more rested and luminous.
74% noticed brighter, more radiant eyesVisible Reduction in Fine Lines
Retinol and Retinyl Propionate begin accelerating cell turnover. Early crow's feet and expression lines around the eyes start to appear shallower. Skin texture around the eye area becomes smoother.
68% saw visible improvement in fine linesFirming, Tone Improvement & Wrinkle Reduction
Collagen stimulation from the dual-retinoid system becomes measurable. Deeper crow's feet look less pronounced, puffiness is reduced, and skin appears firmer. Dark circles from hyperpigmentation continue to fade.
60% reported noticeable firming and wrinkle reductionComprehensive Anti-Aging Transformation
With consistent nightly use, the full benefits of the Retinol 24 complex are realized. Skin around the eyes looks meaningfully younger — smoother texture, improved tone, reduced fine lines, and sustained 24-hour hydration.
Best results with consistent daily useRatings by platform
14K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dual-retinoid complex (Retinol + Retinyl Propionate) — clinically backed
- Fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free formula
- Silky, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly
- Visible hydration improvement from the very first use
- Niacinamide effectively brightens dark circles over time
- Ophthalmologist-tested — safe for the delicate eye area
- Excellent value for a retinol eye cream at drugstore pricing
- Suitable for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers
Criticized
- Small 0.5 oz / 15 mL size — runs out quickly with daily use
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Contains DMDM Hydantoin (formaldehyde releaser) — may concern sensitive users
- Contains Polysorbate 20 — not safe for fungal acne-prone skin
- Nighttime only — no SPF, can't replace a daytime eye cream
- May pill under makeup if not fully absorbed before moisturizer
- Some users report no visible change in deep wrinkles after short-term use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains Retinol SA (stabilized retinol) with glucose complex and hyaluronic acid. Thinner texture suitable for use day and night; lacks niacinamide. Good entry-level retinol eye cream with widespread availability. Slightly less potent retinoid system than the dual Olay complex.
French pharmacy brand with pure RoC Retinol and a proprietary mineral complex (zinc gluconate). Oil-free, non-comedogenic, dermatologist-tested. Lacks niacinamide but uses a complementary mineral approach to reduce irritation. Clinically proven to reduce eye wrinkles by up to 50% in 12 weeks.
By layering The Ordinary's retinoid emulsion with their Niacinamide 10% serum you replicate the active ingredient profile at a lower cost. However, this requires two products, is not formulated specifically for the delicate eye area, and lacks the silicone emollient base. Use with extra caution around eyes.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging indicating the 12M PAO.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid environments such as bathrooms when possible, as heat and moisture can degrade retinol.
Cream jar with screw-top lid. Note: jar packaging exposes product to air and light with each opening, which can gradually degrade retinol potency — use a clean spatula or hygiene wand to dispense if possible.
Yes — at 0.5 fl oz (15 mL), it is well within the TSA 3-1-1 carry-on liquid limit of 3.4 fl oz (100 mL). Ideal for travel skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo — this product is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains Retinol and Retinyl Propionate, both of which are retinoids. All retinoids — including OTC retinol — are advised against during pregnancy due to the potential risk of teratogenicity (birth defects) associated with the retinoid family of compounds. While topical retinol has far lower systemic absorption than oral retinoids like isotretinoin, most dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend avoiding all retinoids topically during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consider switching to a pregnancy-safe eye cream with niacinamide, vitamin C, peptides, or hyaluronic acid instead. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any active skincare during pregnancy.
No — this product is not fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, a polyethylene glycol-derived fatty acid ester that is a known feed source for Malassezia yeast. For most people this is not a concern, but if you are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) you may want to avoid this product around areas where fungal acne breakouts occur. Note that fungal acne around the eye area is less common than on the chest, back, and forehead. If you have FA-prone skin but want a retinol eye cream, look for formulas free from fatty acid esters and polysorbates.
Use with caution. Retinol and Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can potentially degrade each other when used at the same time, as retinol is most stable at a higher pH (~6) while L-ascorbic acid works best at a low pH (~3.5). Best practice is to use Vitamin C products in the morning and retinol products at night — which is already the intended routine for this product. Regarding AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid): combining them in the same routine as retinol may increase the risk of irritation, peeling, and barrier disruption, especially in the sensitive eye area. If you use exfoliating acids on your face, apply them on separate nights from retinol, or use them in your morning routine. If any irritation, redness, or peeling develops around the eye area, reduce frequency or discontinue use.
This eye cream is suitable for all skin types — normal, oily, combination, dry, and sensitive — with a few caveats. Its silicone-based formula makes it particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin, as it delivers moisture without greasiness. Dry skin types get good hydration from glycerin and the occlusive silicone film, though very dry skin may want to layer a richer eye balm on top in winter months. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well thanks to the fragrance-free, dye-free formula, but should be aware of the DMDM Hydantoin preservative, which can occasionally cause reactions in those with formaldehyde sensitivity. Patch test on the inner arm before applying to the eye area.
You can notice immediate cosmetic benefits — smoother, softer skin — from the very first use, thanks to the silicone emollients and Titanium Dioxide which optically blur fine lines. For meaningful anti-aging results from the retinoid actives, most clinical evidence points to 8–12 weeks of consistent nightly use to see visible improvement in crow's feet and fine lines. Niacinamide typically shows brightening effects on dark circles within 4–8 weeks. For comprehensive firming and deeper wrinkle reduction, 3–6 months of consistent use is recommended. Results are cumulative — consistency is key, and discontinuing use will gradually reverse the improvements.
Apply this eye cream as Step 4 in your evening routine: after cleansing (Step 1), toning (Step 2), and any facial serums (Step 3), but before your main face moisturizer (Step 5). The general rule for layering skincare is thinnest to thickest consistency, and eye creams typically come before moisturizers. Use a small pea-sized amount (a rice grain per eye), and gently pat around the orbital bone using your ring finger. Avoid pulling or dragging the skin. This is a nighttime-only product — do not use in the morning. In the morning, always follow your nighttime retinol use with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ product.
No — this product has a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The formula uses silicone-based emollients (Dimethicone, Dimethiconol, Dimethicone Crosspolymer) rather than potentially pore-clogging oils, making it an excellent choice for acne-prone and oily skin types. None of the key ingredients are classified as high comedogenic risk. The product is also free of mineral oil, a common concern for pore-clogging. While no eye cream is guaranteed to be 100% non-comedogenic for every individual (skin responses vary), this formula is as low-risk as it gets for the drugstore retinol eye cream category.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for this product is 12 months — indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging showing "12M." With nightly use of approximately a rice-grain-sized amount per eye (roughly 0.05–0.1g per use), a 15 mL jar typically lasts 3–5 months with daily use, which is well within the 12-month PAO window. To maximize longevity and retinol stability, store in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Retinol is sensitive to light and air — if the formula changes color (yellowing) or develops an unusual smell before 12 months, discontinue use.
Verdict: TheOlay Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream is one of the most clinically credible drugstore retinol eye creams available. Its proprietary dual-retinoid system — pairing Retinol with the P&G-developed Retinyl Propionate — delivers genuine anti-aging results backed by independent clinical data, all at an accessible price point. The addition of Niacinamide for brightening dark circles, Vitamin E for antioxidant defense, and a silicone-based carrier that provides instant cosmetic smoothing makes this a rare all-in-one formula in its category. The fragrance-free, dye-free, paraben-free formulation makes it broadly accessible, including for sensitive skin. Primary drawbacks are the small 0.5 oz jar size, the presence of DMDM Hydantoin for those who avoid formaldehyde releasers, Polysorbate 20 for fungal-acne-prone users, and the nighttime-only limitation. Overall, a standout drugstore eye cream that punches well above its price class for anyone seeking visible reduction in crow's feet, fine lines, and dark circles.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Hair Fixing, Suspending Agent - Nonsurfactant, Viscosity Increasingagent - Nonaqueous
|
|
|
| 9 |
Retinol
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|