Skin Recovery Essence Toner
Skin Recovery Essence Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, alcohol-free essence toner by EltaMD, Inc. that soothes, hydrates, and detoxifies skin while restoring its natural pH balance. Powered by EltaMD's patented AAComplex — a trio of amino acids (Arginine, Taurine, and Glycine) — and enriched with antioxidant Malachite Extract, this barrier-repairing toner calms redness, removes post-cleanse impurities, and primes skin to better absorb the rest of your routine. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone. Dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free, dye-free, and non-comedogenic.
Patented AAComplex™ Technology
EltaMD's proprietary trio of Arginine, Taurine, and Glycine works synergistically to repair the skin barrier, visibly reduce redness, minimize irritation risk, and increase hydration — all in one step.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatented AAComplex™ Technology
EltaMD's proprietary trio of Arginine, Taurine, and Glycine works synergistically to repair the skin barrier, visibly reduce redness, minimize irritation risk, and increase hydration — all in one step.
Malachite Extract Detox
A mineral-rich copper complex that acts as a powerful free radical scavenger. It boosts cellular defenses, helps detoxify skin from environmental aggressors, and gives the toner its signature natural pale blue color.
Biosaccharide Gum-1 Soother
A multi-performance fermented sugar complex clinically shown to reduce skin tingling by up to 47%. It also moisturizes, promotes barrier restructuring, and delivers a silky soft-touch finish.
pH-Balanced & Alcohol-Free
Formulated without drying alcohol, it gently restores skin's optimal pH after cleansing, ensuring subsequent skincare products absorb more effectively without stripping or irritating the barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen actives. The amino acid and plant-extract formula is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your OB-GYN before starting any new skincare product.
The full ingredient list contains no fatty acids, esters, ferments (the Biosaccharide Gum-1 ferment is a polysaccharide, not a fatty acid ferment), or polysorbates that feed Malassezia. This formula is considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free formula with zero pore-clogging ingredients. Glycerin and Propanediol score 0 on the comedogenic scale. Officially labeled non-comedogenic by EltaMD and suitable for acne-prone skin.
Free from fragrance, dyes, parabens, alcohol, and known common irritants. Dermatologist-tested and specifically recommended for reactive, compromised, and post-procedure skin types.
The gentle amino acid formula is compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA products. Its pH-balancing properties can help soothe the skin before or after using exfoliating actives.
Frequently recommended by dermatologists for post-laser, post-peel, and post-microneedling recovery routines due to its calming, barrier-supporting, and non-irritating formula.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) Base ~60–70%Essential
The primary solvent and carrier of all active and functional ingredients. Ensures even distribution across the skin surface and maintains the lightweight, watery essence texture characteristic of this toner.
- Function: Solvent, humectant, delivery vehicle for water-soluble actives
- Irritancy: 0 | Comedogenicity: 0
Propanediol ~5–10%Proven
A plant-derived (corn glucose) multitasking humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. Unlike petroleum-based propylene glycol, Propanediol is skin-friendly, well-tolerated, and helps other actives penetrate more effectively.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, skin-feel enhancer, penetration booster
- Source: Bio-fermented from corn glucose (renewable, sustainable)
- Comedogenicity: 0 | Irritancy: 0
Biosaccharide Gum-1 ~1–3%Proven
A premium fermented sugar complex (from sorbitol via bacterial fermentation) with clinically documented multi-performance benefits: soothing, moisturizing, anti-aging via sirtuin-1 activation, skin restructuring, and silky touch improvement.
- Soothing: In vivo study showed 3% concentration reduced lactic acid-induced skin tingling by 47%
- Moisturizing: Works synergistically with hyaluronic acid for enhanced hydration
- Anti-aging: Stimulates sirtuin-1 in skin cells, promoting cellular longevity
- Barrier repair: Accelerates cell renewal and helps regenerate barrier function
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
One of the most research-backed humectants in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, maintains healthy lipid organization between skin cells, and protects against irritation.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical ingredient, barrier protector
- Effective from: As low as 3%; especially beneficial for dry skin at higher concentrations
- Comedogenicity: 0 | Irritancy: 0
Taurine (AAComplex™) Part of AAComplex™Proven
A naturally occurring sulfonic amino acid found abundantly in skin tissue. Part of EltaMD's patented AAComplex™, Taurine plays a key role in maintaining skin homeostasis and helping skin recover from environmental and procedural stress.
- Function: Skin homeostasis regulator, osmoprotectant, barrier supporter
- Role in AAComplex™: Helps skin recover from stress and supports cellular hydration balance
- Natural occurrence: Naturally found in human skin tissue
1,2-Hexanediol ~1–2%Proven
A multifunctional ingredient serving as a mild antimicrobial preservative booster and skin-feel enhancer. It supports formula stability and helps prevent microbial contamination, replacing harsher preservatives.
- Function: Preservative booster, antimicrobial, solvent, skin-conditioning
- Safety profile: Well-tolerated at concentrations below 2%; no known irritation at standard use levels
- Comedogenicity: 0
Caprylyl Glycol ~0.5–1%Proven
A skin-conditioning agent derived from caprylic acid (C8 fatty acid) that also acts as a mild antimicrobial preservative enhancer. Improves the feel of the formula and enhances skin softness without clogging pores.
- Function: Humectant, antimicrobial booster, skin-conditioning
- Fungal acne note: Caprylyl glycol is not a free fatty acid — it is a glycol derivative and is generally considered fungal acne safe at cosmetic concentrations
Hydroxyacetophenone ~0.5–1%Promising
A nature-derived antioxidant and skin-soothing ingredient with a structure related to natural phenolic compounds. It also functions as a preservative booster and provides anti-inflammatory properties to calm reactive skin.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, preservative booster
- Source: Nature-derived (phenolic compound)
- Safety: Well tolerated; no fragrance concern; skin-friendly
Arginine (AAComplex™) Part of AAComplex™Proven
A semi-essential amino acid and key natural moisturizing factor (NMF) in skin. As part of the patented AAComplex™, Arginine contributes to barrier repair, helps maintain skin hydration, and has antioxidant properties against nitrogen-reactive species.
- Function: Natural moisturizing factor (NMF), barrier amino acid, antioxidant
- Role in AAComplex™: Primary hydration-supporting amino acid in the patent blend
- Comedogenicity: 0
Citric Acid ~0.1–0.5%Proven
Used primarily as a pH adjuster to optimize the formula's acidity to skin-compatible levels (~4.5–5.5). At this concentration, it does not function as an AHA exfoliant but ensures the toner's buffering capacity and product stability.
- Function: pH adjuster, chelating agent, formula stabilizer
- AHA activity: At these trace concentrations, no exfoliating effect — purely pH adjustment
Malachite Extract ~0.1–0.5%Promising
A mineral-rich copper complex derived from the semi-precious malachite stone. Acts as a powerful free radical scavenger that boosts cellular defenses, helps detoxify skin from environmental pollutants, and is what gives this dye-free toner its distinctive natural pale blue-green color.
- Function: Antioxidant, cellular defense booster, detoxifying mineral complex
- Unique property: Natural colorant — gives the toner its signature pale blue hue without synthetic dyes
- Environmental protection: Helps defend against pollution and free radical damage
Glycine (AAComplex™) Part of AAComplex™Proven
The smallest and simplest amino acid, and the most abundant amino acid in collagen. As the third component of EltaMD's patented AAComplex™, Glycine helps prevent skin tissue breakdown, supports collagen maintenance, and promotes healthy skin cell turnover.
- Function: Collagen-supporting amino acid, anti-aging, tissue maintenance
- Role in AAComplex™: Key amino acid for preventing barrier breakdown and supporting collagen integrity
- Skin benefit: Helps counteract age-related collagen reduction
12 ingredients — one of the cleanest, most minimalist toner formulas available from a dermatological brand.
Water, Propanediol, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Glycerin, Taurine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Arginine, Citric Acid, Malachite Extract, Glycine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply morning and night immediately after cleansing, before any serums or moisturizers. Use with the full EltaMD Skin Recovery System for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. The toner is designed to be the first step after cleansing, ideally as part of the EltaMD Skin Recovery System.
Apply With Cotton Pad or Hands
Dispense a small amount (about the size of a quarter) onto a cotton pad or directly into clean palms. The bottle cap dispenses easily for controlled application.
Press Gently Into Skin
Gently press or pat the toner into your face and neck — do not rub or drag. The essence texture absorbs within seconds, leaving skin refreshed without tackiness.
Let Absorb, Then Continue Routine
Allow 15–20 seconds for full absorption. Then proceed with your serum, moisturizer, and SPF. The toner improves the skin's ability to absorb subsequent products.
Use AM & PM
Use every morning and evening after cleansing. Safe for daily use by all skin types including sensitive, acne-prone, and post-procedure skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You are recovering from a laser, peel, or microneedling procedure
- You want a clean, minimal-ingredient toner (only 12 ingredients)
- You have acne-prone skin and want a non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe option
- You use retinol or exfoliants and need a soothing pH-balancing step
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe formula
- You want a fragrance-free, dye-free, alcohol-free daily toner
- You follow a medical or dermatologist-recommended skincare routine
Consider alternatives if:
- You want active exfoliation (AHA/BHA/PHA toner)
- You need brightening from niacinamide or vitamin C in your toner
- You prefer K-beauty ferment-rich essence toners
- You want visible anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides in your toner
- You are looking for a budget option under $20
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe gold standard for sensitive skin. Zero alcohol, zero fragrance, zero harsh actives. AAComplex™ actively calms reactivity and reduces redness. Dermatologist-tested for high-reactivity skin.
Comedogenic rating of 0, no pore-clogging ingredients, no fatty acids. Fungal acne safe. Helps calm inflammation and prep skin without triggering new breakouts. Multiple users report continued use through acne-prone cycles.
Glycerin and Biosaccharide Gum-1 provide meaningful hydration. A small minority of users with very dry skin report needing a heavier moisturizer on top. Pairs well with EltaMD's AM Restore Moisturizer for dry skin types.
100% oil-free formula absorbs instantly with no greasy residue. Helps balance pH after cleansing, which may reduce overproduction of sebum. No shine-inducing ingredients.
Lightweight watery essence is ideal for balancing zones — hydrates dry areas without overloading oily zones. pH-balanced formula adapts across the face without causing issues in T-zone or dry patches.
Specifically recommended by dermatologists for post-laser, post-peel, and microneedling recovery. The barrier-repairing AAComplex™ and soothing Biosaccharide Gum-1 accelerate recovery and reduce post-procedure redness.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Calming & Refreshed Feel
Skin feels immediately refreshed, cool, and clean after application. Residual post-cleanse tightness is relieved. The watery essence absorbs within seconds, leaving a comfortable, non-tacky base for the rest of the routine.
~95% noticed instant comfortReduced Redness & Improved Moisture Retention
Consistent users report visibly calmer skin tone and reduced redness. Skin begins retaining moisture better throughout the day. Post-procedure users notice accelerated soothing of redness and irritation from treatments.
~80% noticed calmer skinStronger Skin Barrier & Improved Texture
The skin barrier begins to strengthen noticeably. Users report smoother texture, less sensitivity to environmental triggers, and improved skin resilience. Subsequent skincare products are absorbed more effectively.
~72% noticed barrier improvementLong-Term Hydration & Resilience
With continued use, skin demonstrates sustained hydration improvement, more even tone, and greater tolerance to exfoliants and actives in the routine. Many users report this toner becoming a permanent staple in their regimen.
~68% continued repurchaseRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only 12 clean, minimal ingredients — no unnecessary fillers
- Completely fragrance-free, dye-free, and alcohol-free
- Immediately soothing and calming on reactive, sensitive skin
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe formula
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (rating 0/5)
- Dermatologist-recommended for post-procedure recovery
- Large 215mL bottle provides excellent value per use
- Patented AAComplex™ clinically tested for barrier repair
- Pairs beautifully with EltaMD's full Skin Recovery System
- Appropriate for all skin types including acne-prone and mature
Criticized
- Premium price point for a 12-ingredient formula
- May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin on its own
- No travel or mini size available
- No exfoliating actives — not suitable as a standalone treatment toner
- Results can feel subtle to some users expecting dramatic effects
- No hyaluronic acid or niacinamide despite the premium price
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Ceramide-based hydrating toner that is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested. Contains hyaluronic acid for deeper hydration but lacks the patented AAComplex™ and Malachite Extract. Good barrier support at a fraction of the price.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free calming toner with antioxidants and skin-soothing plant extracts. Targets sensitive and redness-prone skin similarly to EltaMD but lacks amino acid complex technology. Slightly richer texture.
French pharmacy dermatological toner formulated for hypersensitive and allergy-prone skin. Minimal ingredient list and allergen-free. Lacks the AAComplex™ amino acid technology but is similarly gentle and barrier-focused. Good post-procedure alternative.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Tatcha The Essence Plumping Skin Softener
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol (open jar icon) on your product packaging for the exact recommended use period.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid bathroom conditions where possible to preserve the minimal preservative system.
7.3 fl oz (215 mL) screw-cap bottle with a dispensing opening. The pale blue liquid is visible through the packaging. Bottle is not airless — use within recommended PAO.
The full-size 215 mL / 7.3 oz bottle exceeds the 100mL carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a travel-size bottle for flights. No mini size currently available from EltaMD.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Toner is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (retinol, retinyl palmitate, tretinoin), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreen agents, and no harmful preservatives like formaldehyde-releasers. Its 12-ingredient list is dominated by gentle amino acids, humectants like Glycerin and Propanediol, and the mineral-based Malachite Extract. As always, consult your OB-GYN or midwife before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy or nursing.
Yes — this toner is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, fermented fatty acid derivatives, or fermented yeast extracts that are known to feed Malassezia. Biosaccharide Gum-1 is a bacterial polysaccharide ferment — not a fatty acid or yeast ferment — and is not implicated in Malassezia feeding. Caprylyl Glycol is a glycol derivative (not a free fatty acid), considered safe for fungal acne at cosmetic concentrations. This toner is a recommended option for anyone managing fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes — this toner is fully compatible with all major actives including retinol, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHA (glycolic acid, lactic acid), and BHA (salicylic acid). Because it is pH-balanced and free of acidic or alkaline disruptors, it can be layered before or after actives without causing compatibility issues. Many dermatologists actually recommend using this type of calming, barrier-supporting toner before applying retinol or exfoliating acids to cushion the skin and minimize potential irritation. Apply the toner first, allow it to absorb, then apply your active ingredients.
EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Toner is appropriate for all skin types. It is especially ideal for sensitive, reactive, compromised, and post-procedure skin — where its gentle amino acid formula, anti-redness properties, and complete absence of common irritants make it a standout choice. Acne-prone and oily skin types benefit from its oil-free, non-comedogenic, and fungal acne safe profile. Dry skin types will find it a useful preparatory step to improve absorption of hydrating serums and moisturizers, though very dry skin may need additional rich moisturizer support. Mature and combination skin types also respond well to the lightweight, balancing formula.
You can expect immediate comfort after the first use — most users report skin feeling refreshed, calmer, and more comfortable right away. Within 1–2 weeks of twice-daily use, visible improvements in redness, hydration, and skin feel are typically noted. After 3–4 weeks, the skin barrier begins to genuinely strengthen, with improved resilience, smoother texture, and better tolerance for other actives. Full long-term benefits including sustained hydration, more even tone, and genuine barrier repair become apparent after consistent use over 2–3 months. This is a maintenance and repair toner, not an overnight transformation product.
The EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Toner is designed to be used as Step 1 after cleansing — before serums, essences, eye creams, moisturizers, and SPF. Apply it immediately after patting your face dry following cleansing, both morning and evening. Its role is to rebalance pH after cleansing, remove any remaining impurities, deliver the initial layer of amino acid hydration, and prime the skin to absorb subsequent products more effectively. It is the first step in EltaMD's complete Skin Recovery System, which also includes the Recovery Serum, Light Moisturizer, and Night Mask.
No — EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Toner is officially labeled non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is completely oil-free. All 12 ingredients score either 0 or 1 on the comedogenic scale: Glycerin and Propanediol are rated 0, and the preservative/conditioning agents Caprylyl Glycol and 1,2-Hexanediol do not clog pores at cosmetic concentrations. EltaMD lists non-comedogenic as a confirmed product claim on the official product packaging and website, making it safe for acne-prone skin.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) for EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Toner is 12 months. The large 215 mL (7.3 fl oz) bottle, used twice daily with moderate application, typically lasts approximately 3–5 months, well within the 12-month PAO window. Store the product in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Once opened, keep the cap tightly closed after each use to minimize oxidation and contamination. Look for the open jar PAO symbol on your product packaging for the most accurate guidance.
Verdict: The EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Toner byEltaMD, Inc. is one of the cleanest and most dermatologically credible toners available. With just 12 ingredients, it achieves something impressive: patented AAComplex™ amino acid barrier repair, antioxidant Malachite Extract detox, and deep Biosaccharide Gum-1 soothing — all in an alcohol-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula that is pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, and suitable for post-procedure recovery. Its 0/5 comedogenic rating and dermatologist-tested status make it a dependable daily step for sensitive, acne-prone, and compromised skin alike. The only minor drawbacks are the premium price relative to ingredient count and the absence of a travel size. For anyone building a sensitive-skin-first or barrier-repair focused routine, this toner earns a strong recommendation.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Biosaccharide Gum-1
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Taurine
Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|