Seoul 1988 Cream : Retinal Liposome 1% + Fermented Rice
Seoul 1988 Cream : Retinal Liposome 1% + Fermented Rice
Product Description
Product overview
A next-generation Korean anti-aging moisturizer from K-Secret that pairs 1% liposome-encapsulated retinal — a vitamin A derivative up to 11x more potent than retinol — with rice ferment, bakuchiol, niacinamide, vitamin C and E, three signal peptides, and five herbal root extracts. Engineered to soften fine lines, brighten uneven tone, and reinforce the skin barrier with minimal irritation, all in a lightweight cream that absorbs in seconds.
Liposome Delivery System
Retinal is encapsulated inside lipid vesicles for staged release — boosting stability, deeper penetration, and dramatically reducing irritation versus naked retinoids.
Texture & feel
SENSORYLiposome Delivery System
Retinal is encapsulated inside lipid vesicles for staged release — boosting stability, deeper penetration, and dramatically reducing irritation versus naked retinoids.
Up to 11x Faster Than Retinol
Retinaldehyde sits one conversion step from retinoic acid, while retinol needs two — meaning faster, more visible results on fine lines, tone, and texture.
Rice Ferment Brightening
1,000 ppm Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment is rich in amino acids and enzymes that brighten dull skin, smooth texture, and deeply hydrate.
Bakuchiol & Peptide Boost
Bakuchiol mimics retinoid pathways gently, while three SH-peptides (Oligopeptide-1, -2, Polypeptide-1) signal collagen and elastin production.
Barrier-Reinforcing Lipids
Cholesterol, phytosterols, ceramide-precursors, and macadamia oil rebuild the skin's lipid matrix — counteracting retinoid dryness from day one.
5-Root Herbal Antioxidant Blend
Burdock, cnidium, wild yam, peony, and rehmannia root extracts deliver antioxidant defense rooted in traditional Korean herbal medicine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains retinal (a vitamin A derivative). Topical retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN.
Contains multiple ferments, esters (cetyl ethylhexanoate, caprylic/capric triglyceride), and fatty alcohols that can feed malassezia.
Retinal increases sun sensitivity. PM-only use is recommended, and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable the next morning.
Direct AHA/BHA (glycolic, lactic, salicylic), benzoyl peroxide, or other retinoids in the same routine to prevent irritation.
Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides, snail mucin, ceramides, panthenol, centella, squalane — all support the barrier.
Tested for skin irritation; free from common allergens, parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oil, and artificial colors.
Formula complies with reef-safe standards and is not tested on animals.
Apply a small amount on the inner wrist or jawline for 24h before full-face use. Start 2x weekly and build up tolerance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinal Liposome 1% (100 ppm pure retinal)Proven
Retinaldehyde — the direct precursor to retinoic acid (tretinoin). Encapsulated in liposomes for controlled release, enhanced stability, and dramatically reduced irritation versus standard retinoids. Targets fine lines, uneven tone, rough texture, and pore visibility.
- British Journal of Dermatology (1999): 0.05% retinaldehyde over 18 weeks visibly reduced photoaging and wrinkle depth.
- Mechanism: Retinal converts to retinoic acid in just one enzymatic step — retinol takes two — making it more bioavailable.
- Liposome benefit: Phospholipid encapsulation lowers initial skin contact concentration, reducing redness and peeling.
Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment 1,000 ppm (0.1%)Proven
Fermented rice filtrate is rich in amino acids, kojic acid precursors, peptides, and B-vitamins. Helps brighten dullness, support moisture retention, and improve skin radiance — a hallmark of K-beauty fermentation science.
- Korean dermatology research: Rice ferment shown to enhance skin hydration and reduce melanin synthesis after 4 weeks of use.
- Synergy: Soothes the irritation that retinoids can cause, making this duo a smart formulation choice.
Niacinamide ~2-4%Proven
Vitamin B3 — the multitasker. Strengthens the skin barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss, evens tone, refines pores, and visibly calms post-retinoid redness.
- International Journal of Dermatology (2005): 5% niacinamide reduced hyperpigmentation in 12 weeks.
- Position in INCI: 6th — indicating an effective concentration in the 2-4% range.
Bakuchiol <1%Proven
Plant-derived compound from Psoralea corylifolia that mimics retinol pathways without retinoid side effects. Used here as a synergistic booster — calmer for sensitive skin while reinforcing anti-aging efficacy.
- British Journal of Dermatology (2019): Bakuchiol reduced wrinkles and hyperpigmentation comparably to retinol with significantly less scaling and stinging.
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid <1%Proven
A stable, oil-soluble Vitamin C derivative that converts to L-ascorbic acid inside the skin. Brightens dark spots, neutralizes free radicals, and supports collagen — without the instability of pure ascorbic acid.
- Stability: Resists oxidation in cream formulas, unlike standard L-AA.
- Synergy with Vitamin E (Tocopherol): The two form a regenerative antioxidant network in the skin.
Triple Peptide Complex <1%Promising
Sh-Oligopeptide-1 (EGF-like), Sh-Oligopeptide-2 (IGF-like), and Sh-Polypeptide-1 (basic FGF-like). These signal peptides communicate with skin cells to encourage repair, collagen synthesis, and barrier restoration.
- Mechanism: Mimic naturally occurring growth factors that decline with age.
- Found in: High-end Korean and Japanese anti-aging formulas — rare to see all three combined at this price point.
5-Root Herbal Antioxidant Blend <1% combinedPromising
Burdock (Arctium Lappa), Cnidium Officinale, Wild Yam (Dioscorea Japonica), Peony (Paeonia Suffruticosa), and Rehmannia Chinensis root extracts. A traditional Korean herbal blend rich in flavonoids and polyphenols.
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize environmental stressors that accelerate visible aging.
- Soothing: Often used in K-beauty for redness-prone, sensitized skin.
Barrier Lipid Complex ~3-5% combinedProven
Cholesterol, phytosterols (Brassica Campestris), hydrogenated lecithin, and macadamia ternifolia seed oil — the building blocks of a healthy skin barrier. Critical for offsetting retinoid-related dryness.
- Cholesterol + lecithin: Mimic the natural lipid bilayer of the stratum corneum.
- Macadamia oil: High in palmitoleic acid — closely matches human sebum composition.
50 ingredients
Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment (1,000 ppm), Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Saccharomyces/Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces/Potato Extract Ferment Filtrate, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Caprylyl Glycol, Adenosine, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Sorbitan Oleate, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Retinal (100 ppm), Silica, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Tocopherol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Bakuchiol, Sh-Oligopeptide-1, Sh-Oligopeptide-2, Sh-Polypeptide-1.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPM only. Beginners can use the "sandwich method" — moisturizer → retinal cream → moisturizer — to ease into retinoid use. Always finish with SPF 30+ the following morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry Completely
Wash with a gentle cleanser. Wait until skin is fully dry — applying retinoids to damp skin can intensify irritation.
Layer Hydrators First
Apply toner, essence, and serum (e.g., hyaluronic acid or peptide serum). Allow each layer to absorb.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
A pea-sized portion is enough for the entire face and neck. More product does not equal more results — only more risk of irritation.
Massage Gently
Press into skin with upward, outward motions. Avoid the immediate eye area, lip line, and any open or active blemishes.
Build Tolerance
Weeks 1–2: twice weekly. Weeks 3–4: every other night. Week 5+: nightly if skin tolerates it well.
SPF 30+ Every Morning
Retinoids increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable to protect results and prevent further damage.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're a retinoid beginner who wants gentle but effective results
- You have early or mature signs of aging (fine lines, loss of firmness)
- You're battling uneven tone, dullness, or post-acne marks
- You have sensitive or reactive skin and traditional retinol stings
- You want a multi-active anti-aging formula in a single step
- You prefer K-beauty's barrier-friendly, fermented approach
Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're already using prescription tretinoin or adapalene
- You have severely compromised barrier or active eczema
- You won't commit to wearing daily sunscreen
- You need a full-strength clinical retinoid (try 12% Retinal Shot instead)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight cream-gel absorbs quickly without heaviness. Retinal helps regulate pore visibility and oil congestion.
Barrier-supporting lipids (cholesterol, phytosterols, macadamia oil) offset retinoid dryness — ideal for mature, dry skin.
Balances oil zones while nourishing drier areas. The cream-gel texture suits combination skin year-round.
Liposome encapsulation, fragrance-free formula, and soothing ferments make this gentler than most retinoids — but still patch test first.
Retinal regulates cell turnover and reduces breakouts. However, esters and ferments make this unsuitable for fungal acne.
Specifically formulated for aging concerns — retinal, peptides, bakuchiol, and antioxidants target wrinkles, firmness, and tone in one step.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSInitial Adjustment Phase
Skin may feel slightly dry or look mildly flushed — this is the normal "retinization" period. Most users report skin feels softer immediately due to hydrating ferments.
~70% report smoother feelTexture Refinement Begins
Skin starts to look more even and refined. Pore visibility may decrease. Initial brightening from rice ferment + 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid becomes noticeable.
~65% notice texture improvementVisible Brightening & Firmness
Dark spots and post-acne marks visibly fade. Skin appears plumper and bouncier as peptides signal collagen synthesis.
~75% report brighter complexionFine Line Reduction
Fine lines around the forehead, eyes, and mouth visibly soften. Overall skin tone is more uniform and radiant.
~60% see fine line softeningFull Anti-Aging Benefits
Maximum collagen-stimulating results. Skin density, firmness, and resilience are at their best with consistent use plus daily SPF.
~80% would repurchaseRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 1% retinal liposome — a high concentration delivered gently
- Lightweight cream-gel that absorbs in seconds
- Fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested, sensitive-skin friendly
- Triple peptide complex rare at this price point
- Bakuchiol & vitamin C boost retinoid synergy
- Strong barrier-support lipids prevent retinoid dryness
- K-beauty fermentation tradition — rice, ginseng, soybean ferments
- Excellent value vs. Western retinal alternatives
Criticized
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe (contains retinal)
- Not fungal-acne safe — contains ferments and esters
- Initial retinization period (1–2 weeks) can mean dryness
- 50ml feels modest at $25 for some users
- Requires consistent SPF use the next morning
- Mature/very dry skin may want richer texture in winter
- Pump can airlock occasionally
- Not suitable to mix with AHA/BHA in the same routine
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Pure-play retinal at 0.2% in a stripped-down emulsion. Cheaper and slightly stronger on the active, but lacks the K-Secret's peptides, bakuchiol, ferments, and barrier lipids.
Encapsulated 0.10% retinal in a lightweight cream serum with fermented oligopeptide. Similar gentle approach; lower retinal concentration and lacks the multi-ferment and 5-root blend.
Encapsulated retinol (not retinal) plus ceramides and niacinamide. Easier to find in drugstores; less potent active and no peptide or bakuchiol synergy.
Retinol + retinyl propionate complex with niacinamide. Mass-market accessible; uses retinol rather than retinal and lacks K-beauty fermentation depth.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEK-Secret Seoul 1988 Cream (Featured)
Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.10%
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Retinal degrades faster when exposed to light and air, so use within this window for best efficacy.
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. A bathroom cabinet or bedside drawer is ideal — avoid windowsills.
Opaque airless pump bottle — protects retinal from light and air oxidation, ensuring potency through the last drop.
Yes — 50ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. The airless pump prevents leaks at altitude.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This cream contains retinal (retinaldehyde) — a vitamin A derivative. Topical retinoids are generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to their relationship to systemic retinoic acid. We strongly suggest pausing this product if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or nursing, and consulting your OB-GYN. Look for pregnancy-safe alternatives with bakuchiol, peptides, or vitamin C instead.
No. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast: cetyl ethylhexanoate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, multiple Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces ferments, macadamia ternifolia seed oil, and lecithin. If you suspect fungal acne (small uniform itchy bumps on the forehead, chest, or back), consider a fungal-acne-safe retinoid alternative such as a stripped-down retinol serum with minimal lipids and no ferments.
Avoid stacking another retinoid on top of this — doubling up causes excess irritation without added benefit. Use vitamin C in your AM routine and this cream at night for best results. AHAs (glycolic, lactic) and BHAs (salicylic) are best alternated on different nights, not layered in the same evening, to prevent barrier compromise. The cream pairs beautifully with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides, ceramides, snail mucin, and centella.
It's formulated for all adult skin types but excels for mature, dry-to-combination, and aging skin showing fine lines, dullness, uneven tone, or loss of firmness. Sensitive skin types tolerate it better than traditional retinols thanks to liposome encapsulation, fragrance-free formulation, and barrier-supporting lipids. Oily and combination skin appreciate the lightweight cream-gel texture. Truly oily skin may prefer the K-Secret 2% Retinal Serum instead.
Skin softness and hydration are usually noticeable within the first week. Visible texture refinement and brightening typically appear after 4 weeks of consistent use. Fine line softening and firmer skin become evident around 8–12 weeks. Maximum collagen-stimulating benefits compound over 3+ months of nightly use combined with daily SPF. Patience and consistency are key — retinoid science rewards the long game.
Use it at night only, after your cleanser, toner, essence, and serum — and before any sleeping mask or facial oil. The order is: cleanser → toner → essence → serum → THIS retinal cream → (optional sleeping pack). Wait until the previous layers fully absorb. The next morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect your results and prevent retinoid-induced photosensitivity.
The overall formula has a low comedogenic rating (~2/5). Macadamia ternifolia seed oil and a few esters fall in the low-to-moderate range, but they appear at modest concentrations and the formula is balanced with lightweight humectants and non-occlusive thickeners. Most users — including acne-prone testers — do not experience clogging. If you're highly comedogenic-sensitive, patch test on the jawline for 1–2 weeks first.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Because retinal is sensitive to light, air, and heat, the airless pump packaging extends potency, but you should aim to finish the bottle within a year of first use. With nightly use, 50ml typically lasts about 3–4 months. Keep the cap closed, store away from sunlight, and avoid hot bathrooms for maximum shelf life.
Verdict: The K-Secret Seoul 1988 Cream punches well above its $25 price tag. Few products under $30 deliver 1% liposome-encapsulated retinal alongside three peptides, bakuchiol, fermented rice, vitamin C, niacinamide, and a 5-root herbal antioxidant blend in a single fragrance-free, barrier-supportive formula. It's a smart bridge between gentle K-beauty and effective Western retinoids — ideal for retinoid beginners, sensitive skin, and mature skin that wants real anti-aging action without the sting. Skip it if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have fungal acne. Otherwise, it's an exceptional value pick that earns its place in any night routine.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 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 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|