SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin
SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed, soap-free cleansing bar by CeraVe that combines salicylic acid (BHA) chemical exfoliation with spherical jojoba bead physical exfoliation to smooth rough, bumpy skin — including keratosis pilaris (KP) on arms and legs — while reinforcing the skin barrier with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and gentle enough for daily use.
Dual-Action Exfoliation
Combines salicylic acid (BHA) chemical exfoliation with spherical jojoba bead physical exfoliation to thoroughly remove dead skin cells and smooth rough texture.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action Exfoliation
Combines salicylic acid (BHA) chemical exfoliation with spherical jojoba bead physical exfoliation to thoroughly remove dead skin cells and smooth rough texture.
Barrier-Reinforcing Ceramides
Contains three essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) that match those naturally found in skin, helping restore and maintain the protective skin barrier.
Deep Hydration Complex
Sodium hyaluronate and glycerin attract and retain moisture in the skin, ensuring skin stays hydrated and comfortable even after exfoliation.
Soap-Free, pH-Balanced
Unlike traditional soap bars, this syndet (synthetic detergent) bar maintains the skin's natural pH level, preventing irritation and dryness.
KP & Body Acne Targeted
Specifically formulated to address keratosis pilaris (chicken skin), rough patches on knees and elbows, and body acne breakouts.
MVE Technology
CeraVe's patented Multivesicular Emulsion technology helps deliver ceramides and moisturizers continuously throughout the day for long-lasting skin comfort.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). Topical salicylic acid in rinse-off body cleansers is generally considered low-risk, but many dermatologists recommend limiting BHA use during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Contains Stearic Acid, Coconut Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Petrolatum — fatty acids and lipids that may feed Malassezia yeast. Use with caution if you are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). The salicylic acid may partially offset this concern.
Contains no added synthetic fragrances. Suitable for most sensitive skin types. Note: Methyldihydrojasmonate is a fragrance ingredient listed by some sources — present at likely very low levels.
Does not contain parabens. Preserved with phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin, a modern, well-tolerated preservative system.
The formula is rated very low on the comedogenic scale. Salicylic acid actively helps unclog pores, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. Petrolatum is non-comedogenic despite common myth.
Does not contain harsh drying alcohols like denatured alcohol or alcohol denat. Cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol present are fatty alcohols — emollients, not irritants.
Safe to use in the same routine as retinol, but avoid using both on the same session if you have sensitive skin. Use this bar cleanser first; apply retinol after drying completely to avoid over-exfoliation.
This product contains coconut-derived ingredients. Those with tree nut or coconut allergies should exercise caution and perform a patch test before full use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Cocoyl Isethionate High (Base Cleanser)Proven
The primary cleansing agent derived from coconut oil. This ultra-gentle surfactant creates a rich, creamy lather without disrupting the skin barrier or causing dryness — unlike traditional soap.
- Function: Primary surfactant, skin-conditioning agent
- Origin: Coconut oil-derived (natural origin)
- Benefit: Gentle enough for sensitive skin; does not strip natural oils
- FA Safety: Generally considered safe for fungal acne (not shown to feed Malassezia)
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5–1% est.Proven
The star active ingredient — a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that chemically exfoliates by penetrating into pores and dissolving the keratin plugs responsible for rough, bumpy skin (keratosis pilaris) and blackheads.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant, keratolytic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble BHA penetrates sebum to dissolve dead skin cell buildup
- Benefit: Reduces KP bumps, smooths rough skin, unclogs pores, reduces body acne
- Evidence: Well-established keratolytic agent — extensively peer-reviewed
Ceramide NP + Ceramide AP + Ceramide EOP Barrier ComplexProven
Three essential ceramides that are naturally present in the skin's outer layer. This triple ceramide complex helps reinforce and restore the protective skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental irritants.
- Function: Barrier reinforcement, moisture retention, skin repair
- Ceramide NP (formerly Ceramide 3): Most abundant ceramide in skin; key structural lipid
- Ceramide AP (formerly Ceramide 6-II): Supports ceramide synthesis and skin renewal
- Ceramide EOP (formerly Ceramide 1): Critical for lamellar body formation and barrier integrity
- Evidence: Multiple clinical studies confirm topical ceramides improve barrier function and reduce TEWL
Sodium Hyaluronate Low-MidProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular weight that penetrates skin more readily. Acts as a powerful humectant, holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water to maintain skin hydration after cleansing.
- Function: Humectant, skin hydrator
- Benefit: Prevents post-cleanse tightness and dryness
- Evidence: Clinically proven to increase skin hydration and reduce fine lines
Jojoba Esters Physical ExfoliantProven
Spherical jojoba wax beads that provide gentle physical exfoliation. Unlike harsh plastic microbeads or jagged walnut shell particles, jojoba esters are perfectly round, ensuring they buff away dead skin without micro-tearing the skin's surface.
- Function: Physical exfoliant, emollient
- Origin: Jojoba plant (Simmondsia chinensis) — natural and biodegradable
- Benefit: Gentle physical exfoliation that complements salicylic acid's chemical action
- Eco: Biodegradable — no environmental microplastic concerns
Glycerin Mid-HighProven
A powerful, well-studied humectant naturally found in the skin. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, keeping skin supple and preventing dryness after cleansing.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Benefit: Immediate and sustained hydration; supports skin barrier repair
- Evidence: Decades of research confirm glycerin as one of the most effective moisturizing agents
Dimethicone Low-MidProven
A silicone-based emollient that forms a breathable film on the skin's surface. It smooths skin texture, reduces water evaporation (TEWL), and gives the bar its characteristic smooth, non-drying feel after rinsing.
- Function: Emollient, skin protectant, occlusive
- Benefit: Softens skin, reduces friction, imparts silky feel, mild wound-healing support
Cholesterol + Phytosphingosine Barrier LipidsProven
Two critical skin lipids that work alongside ceramides to complete the natural moisturizing factor (NMF) complex. Cholesterol strengthens the intercellular lipid matrix, while phytosphingosine has documented anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Cholesterol: Essential intercellular lipid; restores lamellar barrier structure
- Phytosphingosine: Sphingoid base with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity
- Together: Completes the ceramide-cholesterol-fatty acid ratio needed for barrier repair
Petrolatum LowProven
A highly effective occlusive moisturizer — arguably the gold standard in skin barrier protection. Petrolatum seals in moisture by forming a protective layer, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and aiding skin repair.
- Function: Occlusive moisturizer, skin protectant
- Non-comedogenic: Despite reputation, petrolatum does not clog pores — confirmed by dermatological research
- Benefit: Even tiny amounts in a rinse-off formula deposit a film that aids post-cleanse comfort
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) LowProven
A powerful fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the skin against oxidative stress from free radicals. Also functions as a natural preservative, helping extend formula stability.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin-conditioning, natural preservative
- Benefit: Protects skin lipids from oxidation; supports healing of rough, irritated skin
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate Low-MidPromising
A mild surfactant and emulsifier derived from lauric acid (coconut oil) and lactic acid. Enhances moisturization and skin feel while improving the mildness of the overall cleansing system.
- Function: Surfactant, emulsifier, conditioning agent
- Benefit: Contributes to the smooth, non-stripping feel of the bar formula
35 ingredients
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Water (Aqua/Eau), Coconut Acid, Sodium Isethionate, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Dimethicone, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Methyldihydrojasmonate, Sodium Chloride, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Jojoba Esters, Disodium EDTA, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Petrolatum, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Cetyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis is aStep 1 cleanser. Use in the shower on damp skin. Works on both face and body — begin with body areas (arms, legs, back) for best results. Follow immediately with moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Skin with Lukewarm Water
Avoid hot water, which can strip the skin barrier. Lukewarm water opens the skin to allow the salicylic acid to work more effectively without over-sensitizing skin.
Work into a Lather
Rub the bar between wet hands or directly onto the skin in a gentle, circular motion. The bar creates a creamy, rich lather. You may also use a washcloth or loofah for added physical exfoliation.
Massage into Problem Areas
Focus on rough patches such as the backs of upper arms (KP), knees, elbows, thighs, and back. Massage gently for 30–60 seconds to allow the salicylic acid to work. Avoid eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Ensure no residue remains, especially in skin folds. Pat skin dry with a clean towel — do not rub.
Apply Moisturizer Immediately
While skin is still slightly damp, apply a body moisturizer to lock in hydration. Pair with CeraVe SA Moisturizing Cream for synergistic KP treatment. Use AM and/or PM daily.
Store Bar Properly
Keep the bar on a well-draining soap dish away from direct water contact between uses. This prevents the bar from softening or dissolving prematurely and extends its useful life significantly.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have keratosis pilaris (KP / "chicken skin") on arms or legs
- Your skin feels rough, bumpy, or textured on body areas
- You prefer a bar format for travel or convenience
- You want a fragrance-free, dermatologist-approved exfoliant
- You have body acne or bacne (back acne)
- You prefer a combined cleanse + exfoliate step to simplify your routine
- You have oily, normal, or combination skin
- You want an affordable, pharmacy-accessible skincare solution
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis)
- You have very dry, eczema-prone, or severely sensitized skin
- You prefer a liquid or gel cleanser format
- You need higher salicylic acid concentration (this is a rinse-off formula)
- You have a known coconut allergy
- You want a leave-on BHA treatment for deeper exfoliation
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSalicylic acid is oil-soluble, making it highly effective at penetrating oily skin and clearing sebum-clogged follicles. Ideal for oily body skin prone to acne and congestion.
The balanced formula — exfoliating yet barrier-protecting — is ideal for normal and combination skin types. Smooths rough patches without over-drying balanced areas.
Works well when followed immediately with a rich moisturizer. The ceramide and glycerin content helps maintain hydration, but dry skin types should moisturize promptly after use to prevent any post-cleanse tightness.
Fragrance-free and soap-free, making it milder than traditional soaps. However, salicylic acid and dual exfoliation may cause irritation for highly reactive or sensitized skin. Patch test first; start with 2–3x per week rather than daily use.
This is the primary target for this product. BHA exfoliation addresses the root cause of KP and acne — excess keratin and sebum buildup. Clinical consumer tests show 87% of users report smoother skin after 4 weeks of consistent use.
BHA and physical exfoliation improve skin cell turnover, which naturally slows with age. The ceramide and hyaluronic acid complex helps mature skin maintain moisture. Best suited for body use rather than delicate facial skin in older adults.
Results timeline
ONGOING MAINTENANCECleaner, Softer-Feeling Skin
The jojoba bead physical exfoliation immediately removes surface dead skin cells, and the creamy lather cleanses deeply. Skin feels noticeably softer and smoother right after rinsing — without the post-wash tightness of traditional soaps.
94% noticed cleaner, softer skin immediately (CeraVe consumer study)Reduced Surface Roughness
With consistent daily use, salicylic acid begins dissolving the keratin plugs causing KP bumps and rough patches. Skin texture becomes visibly smoother. Body acne may start to clear. Some initial purging is possible for acne-prone users.
83% reported smoother skin texture after first useVisible KP Improvement & Softer Skin
The most significant changes occur in weeks 3–4. KP bumps on arms and legs are noticeably reduced. Rough elbow and knee patches soften considerably. Skin feels comfortable and hydrated — not stripped.
91% report softer skin; 87% smoother skin after 4 weeksSustained Texture Improvement
Continued use leads to a sustained improvement in overall skin texture. KP bumps may be significantly reduced or nearly eliminated with consistent use paired with a good moisturizer. Skin barrier health improves due to ongoing ceramide delivery.
80% agree rough patches on knees and elbows feel smootherMaintain Smooth Results
KP and rough skin often return when exfoliation stops. Continue using the bar 3–5x weekly for maintenance, adjusting frequency based on skin response. Pair with a CeraVe SA Moisturizing Cream for best long-term results.
89% report skin feels comfortable with continued useRatings by platform
14K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective at reducing KP bumps on arms and legs
- Dual chemical + physical exfoliation in one step
- Ceramide complex supports skin barrier health
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free — widely tolerated
- Soap-free formula doesn't strip or over-dry skin
- Very affordable — great value at ~$7–10 per bar
- Convenient, travel-friendly bar format
- Widely available at pharmacies, supermarkets, and online
- Clears body acne and bacne effectively
- Dermatologist developed and tested
Criticized
- Bar dissolves quickly without a proper draining soap dish
- Methyldihydrojasmonate may be a fragrance allergen for some
- Contains fatty acids that may not suit fungal acne-prone skin
- Not ideal for pregnancy without doctor approval
- Results take weeks — not an overnight fix
- Can feel too exfoliating on freshly shaved or broken skin
- Bar format less convenient than pump dispenser for some users
- Contains coconut derivatives — caution for tree nut allergy
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Soap-free salicylic acid bar cleanser with similar BHA exfoliation. Fewer barrier-protecting ingredients than CeraVe (no ceramide complex), but excellent for body and face at a comparable price point. Fragrance-free and widely praised on skincare communities.
A liquid body wash format with salicylic acid for body acne and KP. Lacks ceramides and physical jojoba exfoliation, but is more widely available and easier to use in the shower. Good alternative if you prefer liquid over bar format. Contains light fragrance.
Physical exfoliation only — no salicylic acid. More affordable but lacks the BHA chemical exfoliation and ceramide barrier complex that makes CeraVe effective for KP. Good for general skin smoothing but less targeted for keratosis pilaris treatment.
Not a bar, but a leave-on AHA (lactic acid) lotion — often recommended alongside or instead of BHA bars for KP. Lactic acid is gentler than salicylic acid and provides deeper daily exfoliation as a leave-on treatment. More effective for severe KP when combined with a gentle cleanser.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
CeraVe SA Body Wash (Liquid Version)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M PAO). Unopened shelf life is typically 2–3 years from manufacture date. Check packaging for batch-specific expiry.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep on a well-draining soap dish between uses to prevent the bar from sitting in water, which causes premature softening and waste.
Solid cleansing bar (4.5 oz / 128g) in minimal cardboard/paper box packaging. Eco-friendly — no plastic bottle waste. Compact and lightweight.
Yes — fully TSA-compliant with no liquid restrictions. Lightweight and compact, making it perfect for travel. Use a soap tin or travel soap case to protect the bar during transit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar contains salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally considered a caution ingredient during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While topical salicylic acid in a rinse-off body cleanser is absorbed at very low levels, most dermatologists and OBGYNs recommend avoiding BHA-containing products during pregnancy as a precaution — especially in first-trimester and at higher concentrations. Always consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before using products with salicylic acid while pregnant or nursing. CeraVe's regular Hydrating Cleanser Bar (without SA) would be a safer pregnancy-friendly alternative.
The CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar is not fully fungal acne (FA) safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Stearic Acid, Coconut Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Petrolatum — all fatty acids or lipids that can potentially fuel fungal acne. The salicylic acid has some antifungal properties that may partially offset this, but the overall formula has multiple FA-flagged ingredients. If you have confirmed pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), this bar may not be the best choice. Consider a sulfur-based soap or a formula specifically certified fungal acne safe.
Yes, with some care. As a rinse-off cleanser, the salicylic acid exposure time is brief, so it generally layers well with other actives. You can safely use it as a cleanser followed by a vitamin C serum or moisturizer containing other actives. However, avoid using the SA bar immediately before applying another BHA or AHA treatment to the same area (especially for face use) — this stacks exfoliation and can cause irritation. If using topical retinol on the same skin areas, let skin dry completely before applying retinol to reduce irritation risk. When starting, use the bar 2–3x per week and monitor skin for sensitivity before increasing frequency.
The CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar is best suited for oily, normal, combination, and acne-prone or KP-prone skin types. It works excellently on body skin regardless of skin type for targeting rough texture, keratosis pilaris (KP), and body acne. For dry or sensitive skin types, it can still be used but should be followed immediately by a generous application of moisturizer. Those with very sensitive, reactive, eczema-prone, or rosacea-affected skin should use with caution and patch test first, as the dual exfoliation may be too stimulating for compromised skin.
You may notice softer, cleaner skin immediately after the first use due to the physical jojoba bead exfoliation. However, the most meaningful results for keratosis pilaris (KP) and rough texture typically become visible after 3–4 weeks of consistent daily use. CeraVe's own consumer clinical study found that 87% of users reported smoother skin and 91% felt softer skin after 4 weeks. For more stubborn KP or body acne, 6–8 weeks of consistent use, paired with a SA-containing moisturizer like CeraVe SA Cream, may be needed for optimal results. Consistency is key — skipping use often causes bumps to return.
The CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar is a Step 1 cleanser — it always goes first. Use it in the shower on wet skin to cleanse and exfoliate, then rinse thoroughly before applying any other skincare products. After patting skin dry, follow with any serums or treatments, then apply a moisturizer. For morning routines, finish with SPF on sun-exposed areas. The bar can be used once or twice daily (AM and PM) for body, though once daily is sufficient for most people. For facial use, once daily (PM) is recommended to avoid over-exfoliation.
No — the CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. In fact, the salicylic acid in the formula actively unclogs pores by dissolving the oil and dead skin cell buildup (keratin plugs) that cause blackheads and KP bumps. Petrolatum, while commonly misbelieved to be comedogenic, is actually rated 0 on the comedogenic scale and does not clog pores. The rinse-off nature of the bar further reduces any potential for pore-clogging, as most of the ingredients are washed away after cleansing.
The CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. In practical terms, a single 4.5 oz (128g) bar typically lasts 4–8 weeks depending on frequency of use and how well it is stored. Keeping the bar on a well-draining soap dish and away from direct water spray between uses is critical to maximizing bar life — bars left sitting in water will dissolve much faster. For daily full-body use, expect approximately 4–5 weeks per bar. For spot use on arms and legs only, a single bar can last 6–8 weeks or more.
Verdict: The CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin is an outstanding value-for-money exfoliating body bar that delivers on its promises. The combination of salicylic acid chemical exfoliation, spherical jojoba bead physical exfoliation, and CeraVe's signature triple ceramide + hyaluronic acid barrier complex makes it one of the most scientifically well-rounded body cleansers on the pharmacy shelf. It genuinely improves keratosis pilaris, smooths rough body skin, and fights body acne — all without disrupting the skin barrier. Minor drawbacks include the bar's tendency to dissolve quickly without proper storage, some fungal-acne-flagged ingredients, and a pregnancy caution due to BHA. For anyone dealing with bumpy arm skin, rough elbows, or back acne, this bar delivers dermatologist-level results at a drugstore price.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Coconut Acid
Cleansing, Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Isethionate
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|