Snail Bee High Content Essence
Snail Bee High Content Essence
Product Description
Product overview
The original K-beauty snail essence since 2012 — a multi-tasking gel-serum packed with 61% Snail Secretion Filtrate, bee venom, a 6-level peptide complex, and niacinamide to hydrate, soothe, brighten, and visibly repair your skin barrier in one step.
61% Snail Secretion Filtrate
Snail mucin acts as the base of this formula at ~61% concentration, delivering hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, copper peptides, and antioxidant enzymes directly to the skin for deep repair and hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORY61% Snail Secretion Filtrate
Snail mucin acts as the base of this formula at ~61% concentration, delivering hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, copper peptides, and antioxidant enzymes directly to the skin for deep repair and hydration.
Bee Venom (Apitoxin)
A clinically studied ingredient that mimics a micro-stimulus to boost collagen and elastin production. Studies show it may reduce wrinkle depth and improve acne by up to 77% after 6 weeks of consistent use.
6-Level Peptide Complex
Six distinct peptides — Copper Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-9, Hexapeptide-11, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, and Tripeptide-1 — work synergistically to support collagen synthesis and skin firmness.
Niacinamide (~2.5%)
A clinically proven multi-tasker that visibly minimizes pores, regulates sebum production, fades post-acne marks, and strengthens the skin barrier — all at a gentle, well-tolerated concentration.
7-Botanical Soothing Blend
Aloe, Plantago, Laminaria Digitata, Salix Alba, Diospyros Kaki, Ulmus Campestris, and Althaea Rosea work together to calm irritation, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin's natural defenses.
Adenosine (Wrinkle Care)
A Korean cosmetics functional ingredient officially recognized for wrinkle improvement. Adenosine promotes cell renewal and collagen synthesis, contributing to firmer, smoother skin over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — all clear. However, bee venom and snail secretion filtrate are animal-derived actives. While no evidence suggests harm, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
The 2023 reformulation replaced Polysorbate 20 and Lecithin (known fungal-acne triggers) with Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, which is considered FA-safe. The current formula contains no problematic fatty acid esters that feed Malassezia yeast.
No heavy oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients. Glycerin and Betaine are rated 0 for comedogenicity. Officially tested as non-comedogenic by Benton. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Contains no synthetic fragrances or added perfumes. The faint herbal scent some users detect comes naturally from botanical extracts and dissipates within seconds of application.
No drying or irritating volatile alcohols such as SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol. The formula uses skin-friendly humectant alcohols (Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol) which are non-drying.
Contains Bee Venom (Apitoxin). If you have a known bee allergy, sensitivity, or have never used bee venom skincare, perform a patch test on the inner arm for 24 hours before full application. Avoid if allergic to bee stings.
Contains two animal-derived ingredients: Snail Secretion Filtrate and Bee Venom. Benton states that snails are raised humanely and not harmed during the extraction process. However, this product is not suitable for strict vegans.
Free of parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oil, and synthetic dyes. pH-balanced and dermatologically tested. The formula's anti-inflammatory botanicals (Allantoin, Panthenol, Beta-Glucan) actively support reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSnail Secretion Filtrate ~61% (611,100 PPM)Proven
The star ingredient, listed first in the 2023 formula at an exceptionally high concentration. A complex biological cocktail of glycosaminoglycans, glycoproteins, hyaluronic acid, copper peptides, zinc, allantoin, and antioxidant enzymes that deeply moisturizes, aids barrier repair, and supports collagen renewal.
- Antioxidant action: Contains superoxide dismutase and glutathione S-transferase enzymes that neutralize free radical damage.
- Fibroblast stimulation: A 2007 study confirmed snail mucin promotes fibroblast proliferation critical for wound healing and collagen production.
- MMP inhibition: Downregulates matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), enzymes that break down skin-firming collagen.
- Radiation dermatitis study: A clinical study with 100 patients showed statistically significant improvement in erythema, itching, and burning pain.
Bee Venom (Apitoxin) tracePromising
Known as "nature's Botox" in K-beauty circles, bee venom contains melittin and phospholipase A2 which create a micro-inflammatory signal that stimulates blood flow and promotes collagen and elastin production. Also carries antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- Wrinkle study: A 0.006% bee venom serum applied twice daily decreased wrinkle depth after 12 weeks in 22 women.
- Acne study: Purified bee venom serum used twice daily led to a 77% average improvement across 30 acne patients over 6 weeks.
- Cell regeneration: In vitro studies confirm bee venom promotes cell regeneration and wound healing.
6-Level Peptide Complex multi-levelProven
The 2023 reformulation added six peptides working at different depths and mechanisms: Copper Tripeptide-1 (wound healing + collagen), Hexapeptide-9 (cell communication), Hexapeptide-11 (skin-smoothing + conditioning), Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (collagen I, III, IV stimulation), Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (collagen and fibronectin synthesis), and Tripeptide-1 (copper chelation + repair).
- Copper Tripeptide-1: One of the most studied repair peptides; promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, and stimulates collagen synthesis.
- Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl): Has published clinical data showing reduction in wrinkle depth and improved skin texture over 8 weeks.
- Multi-level targeting: Different peptides address the epidermis, dermis, and extracellular matrix simultaneously.
Niacinamide ~2.5%Proven
A water-soluble vitamin B3 derivative with an extensive body of clinical evidence. At this concentration it is well-tolerated by virtually all skin types including sensitive skin, delivering meaningful brightening, sebum regulation, and barrier-strengthening benefits without irritation.
- Barrier function: Increases ceramide synthesis and skin lipid production, strengthening the moisture barrier.
- Pigmentation: Inhibits melanosome transfer between melanocytes and keratinocytes, fading dark spots over 8-12 weeks.
- Sebum regulation: Clinically shown to reduce sebum excretion and minimize pore appearance.
Glycerin + Betaine + Panthenol humectant trioProven
Three clinically established humectants that attract and bind water molecules to the upper skin layers. Glycerin (~3.3%) is rated 0 for comedogenicity and proven effective from 3% upward. Betaine is a skin-identical osmolyte that stabilizes cellular function. Panthenol (pro-Vitamin B5) has dual humectant and soothing action.
- Glycerin: Keeps skin lipids in healthy liquid-crystal state, protects against irritation, and restores the barrier.
- Betaine: Gentle, Ecocert-approved, reduces trans-epidermal water loss and soothes reactive skin.
- Panthenol: Converts to Pantothenic acid in skin, stimulating wound healing and lipid synthesis.
Allantoin + Beta-Glucan soothing duoProven
Allantoin is a cell-proliferating agent derived from the comfrey plant that accelerates skin renewal and reduces irritation. Beta-Glucan (derived from oats or yeast) acts as a powerful soothing anti-inflammatory with studies showing it stimulates collagen synthesis and promotes wound healing.
- Allantoin: Accelerates epithelization, rated non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Helps with dry, flaky, and compromised skin.
- Beta-Glucan: Clinical studies show macrophage activation leading to collagen synthesis and improved skin repair.
32 ingredients — 2023 Reformulated Formula
Snail Secretion Filtrate (611,100Ppm), Aqua (Water), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Copper Tripeptide-1, Hexapeptide-11, Hexapeptide-9, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Tripeptide-1, Panthenol, Betaine, Allantoin, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Plantago Asiatica Extract, Ulmus Campestris (Elm) Bark Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Althaea Rosea Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Beta-Glucan, Arginine, Xanthan Gum, Adenosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Bee Venom
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on slightly damp skin. Pat gently — do not rub. Works AM and PM. Can be used alone as a simplified routine or as the essence step in a full K-beauty multi-step regimen.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, freshly washed skin. Double cleansing is recommended in the PM to remove SPF and makeup before applying the essence.
Apply Toner First (Optional)
If using a toner, apply it first and let it absorb. Applying this essence to slightly damp skin boosts absorption and hydration delivery.
Dispense 2–3 Pumps
Pump 2–3 times into your palm. A little goes a long way — this formula is concentrated. Adjust amount based on your skin's needs that day.
Pat Gently Into Skin
Use your fingertips to gently press and pat the essence into your face and neck. Avoid rubbing — patting improves penetration and reduces friction on the skin barrier.
Wait 30 Seconds to Absorb
The lightweight gel absorbs rapidly. Wait briefly before layering serums or moisturizer on top for best results.
Patch Test First
As this contains bee venom, perform a 24-hour patch test on your inner arm before first use, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a high-impact, all-in-one essence with minimal steps
- Your skin is oily, combination, or acne-prone
- You're dealing with post-acne marks, uneven tone, or dullness
- You want to introduce peptides and snail mucin together
- You have a compromised or damaged skin barrier
- You prefer fragrance-free, lightweight gel textures
- You want a proven K-beauty icon with years of reformulation refinement
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a confirmed bee venom or insect sting allergy
- You are strictly vegan (contains snail mucin and bee venom)
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid all animal-derived actives without consulting a doctor
- You want 96%+ snail mucin concentration (COSRX may suit you better)
- You have extremely dry skin and need a richer, occlusive moisturizer as a primary product
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel absorbs in seconds without adding greasiness. Niacinamide regulates sebum production over time. No silicones or heavy emollients.
Provides meaningful hydration via snail mucin, glycerin, and betaine. Layer under a richer moisturizer or cream for optimal moisture on very dry skin, especially in winter months.
The gel-water texture balances perfectly across oily T-zones and drier cheek areas. Niacinamide addresses shine while snail mucin hydrates where needed.
Fragrance-free formula with calming botanicals (Allantoin, Beta-Glucan, Panthenol, Aloe) is generally well-tolerated. Patch test required due to bee venom content for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (comedogenic rating 1/5), fungal-acne safe (2023 formula), and contains bee venom + niacinamide to actively combat breakouts and fade post-acne hyperpigmentation.
The 6-level peptide complex, adenosine (wrinkle care functional ingredient), bee venom, and snail mucin make this one of the most comprehensive anti-aging essences at its price point.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSInstant Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately softer, plumper, and more supple after first application. The lightweight gel texture absorbs without any sticky residue, leaving a fresh, dewy finish. Some users with sensitive skin may experience mild purging in the first week as the formula works.
92% noticed softer skinSoothing & Redness Reduction
Bee venom and botanical extracts reduce visible redness and calm inflammation. Acne-prone skin often notices fewer active breakouts. Skin texture begins to feel noticeably smoother to the touch.
78% noted calmer, less reactive skinBrightening & Tone Improvement
Niacinamide begins to visibly inhibit melanin transfer, reducing the appearance of post-acne marks and uneven skin tone. Overall complexion appears more radiant and refreshed with a glass-skin-like luminosity.
71% saw improved skin toneTexture Refinement & Pore Reduction
Consistent use of niacinamide and the peptide complex visibly refines pores, smooths uneven texture, and begins to address fine lines and wrinkles. Bee venom effects on collagen accumulate, contributing to firmer-looking skin.
65% saw refined pores and firmer skinLong-Term Barrier Strengthening & Anti-Aging
The cumulative effect of snail mucin, peptides, and adenosine on collagen production becomes apparent. Skin is more resilient, scars are visibly faded, fine lines softened, and the barrier is measurably stronger against environmental aggressors.
83% would repurchaseRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally high 61% snail mucin concentration in 2023 formula
- 6-level peptide complex rarely found at this price point
- Fast-absorbing, non-sticky lightweight gel texture
- Works for oily, combination, acne-prone, and mature skin
- Fungal-acne safe (2023 formula)
- Fragrance-free with no harsh alcohols or irritants
- Dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic
- Excellent value — wide price range (~$18–$37)
- Available worldwide from trusted retailers
- Iconic 12+ year track record since 2012
Criticized
- Not vegan — contains snail mucin and bee venom
- Bee venom requires patch test, not suitable for bee-allergic individuals
- Caution advised during pregnancy (animal-derived actives)
- Subtle herbal scent may surprise those expecting odorless
- Some initial purging possible in first 1–2 weeks
- May feel insufficient as sole hydration for very dry skin types in winter
- Multiple formula revisions over the years can confuse returning customers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher snail concentration at 96% with fewer total ingredients. Lacks bee venom, niacinamide, and the 6-level peptide complex. Thicker, stringier texture. Great for maximizing pure snail mucin benefits but less multi-tasking. Contains Phenoxyethanol. Not FA safe (contains Sodium Polyacrylate).
Combines snail mucin with CICA (Centella Asiatica) and niacinamide in a lightweight serum. Strong soothing and brightening profile. No bee venom or multi-level peptides. Good budget alternative for acne-prone or sensitive skin wanting snail + niacinamide without bee actives.
An 80% snail filtrate ampoule with adenosine and hyaluronic acid at an accessible price. More focused on repair and hydration only. No bee venom, no peptide complex, no niacinamide. Suits those wanting affordable snail mucin repair with a watery texture and simpler formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" to confirm. Use within this period for optimal potency of active ingredients including bee venom and peptides.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration is optional but can enhance the soothing sensation on application, especially in warm months.
100 ml plastic pump bottle. The pump dispenser ensures hygienic, precise dispensing — 2–3 pumps is sufficient for the full face. No dropper or open-jar contact reduces contamination risk.
The 100 ml bottle is at the liquid limit for most carry-on regulations (typically 100ml/3.4oz max). Consider decanting into a smaller travel bottle, or purchase a sample/trial size for carry-on compliance.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens, which are the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain two animal-derived actives — Snail Secretion Filtrate and Bee Venom — for which there is limited specific pregnancy safety data. Most dermatologists suggest caution with bee venom during pregnancy as a precaution. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Yes — the 2023 reformulated version is considered fungal acne safe. The previous formula contained Polysorbate 20 and Lecithin, which are known to feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne. Benton replaced these with Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate in the 2023 update, which is generally regarded as FA-safe. Always check that you have the current formula (32 ingredients, Snail Secretion Filtrate listed first). If you have an older formula bottle with Polysorbate 20, it is NOT considered FA-safe.
Generally yes, with some guidelines. This essence pairs well with Vitamin C (apply Vitamin C first as it needs a lower pH environment, then this essence). With retinol, use this essence in the AM and retinol in the PM to avoid any potential interaction with the peptides (some argue certain peptides may be less effective alongside retinol). With AHA/BHA exfoliants, use the acid on alternate nights or apply this essence after the acid has absorbed. The snail mucin and allantoin in this product actually help soothe any post-exfoliation sensitivity.
This essence is most loved by oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types due to its lightweight gel texture, niacinamide content, and non-comedogenic formula. It is also excellent for mature skin thanks to its peptide complex and adenosine. Dry skin types can benefit but may need to layer a richer moisturizer on top, especially in colder climates. Sensitive skin is generally compatible, but bee venom requires a patch test. Suitable for men and women of all ages.
Hydration and softness are typically noticeable from the very first application. Soothing of redness and reduction in breakouts tends to occur within 1–2 weeks. Brightening and improvement in post-acne marks from niacinamide typically becomes visible around weeks 4–6. More significant texture refinement, pore minimizing, and anti-aging effects from the peptide complex and adenosine are best assessed after 8–12 weeks of consistent daily use. Results are cumulative — consistency is key.
Apply this essence as step 3 in your routine: after cleansing (step 1) and toner (step 2), and before any targeted serums, ampoules, moisturizer, or SPF. In Korean skincare, essences go between toner and serum as they are lighter than serums but richer than toners. You can use it both morning and evening. In the AM, always finish with SPF after your moisturizer. Applying to slightly damp skin after your toner can boost absorption.
No. This essence has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It contains no heavy oils, waxes, or pore-clogging emollients. All primary ingredients — snail mucin, glycerin, niacinamide, betaine, allantoin — have a comedogenicity rating of 0 or 1. Benton officially markets the product as non-comedogenic. It is suitable for acne-prone skin and has been well tolerated by oily and combination skin types in community reviews without causing clogged pores.
The period after opening (PAO) is 12 months, indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. With typical usage of 2–3 pumps per application, twice daily, a 100 ml bottle lasts approximately 2–3 months. This makes the cost-per-use quite economical. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the potency of bee venom and peptide actives throughout the usage period.
Verdict: The Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence earns its decade-long holy grail status. The 2023 reformulation significantly raised the bar — snail mucin is now the first ingredient at ~61%, a comprehensive 6-level peptide complex was added, and the formula was made fungal-acne safe by removing Polysorbate 20. For a single essence that hydrates, soothes, brightens, combats acne, and addresses early aging signs, all in a lightweight fragrance-free gel, it is nearly impossible to beat at this price point. Best suited for oily, combination, acne-prone, and mature skin. A rare product that genuinely over-delivers on its ingredient list.
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 9 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 8 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 |
Snail Secretion Filtrate
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
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Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
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Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
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