Some By Mi Aha-Bha-Pha 30 Days Miracle Serum
Some By Mi Aha-Bha-Pha 30 Days Miracle Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A K-beauty chemical exfoliant serum combining five hydroxy acids—glycolic, lactic, malic, tartaric, and pyruvic—to accelerate cell turnover and surface refinement. Centella asiatica and niacinamide support barrier health while tea tree and grapefruit oils address active breakouts. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula suits progressive exfoliation routines without heaviness.
Five-acid blend for controlled exfoliation
Glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and pyruvic acid work synergistically to dissolve dead skin cells at different rates. Centella asiatica reduces post-exfoliation irritation, while niacinamide strengthens the barrier to prevent sensitivity spikes during the adjustment phase.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPolyhydroxy acid complex
Five distinct hydroxy acids at staggered molecular weights penetrate at different depths. Glycolic acid (smallest) targets surface; tartaric and malic acids work mid-dermis; pyruvic acid supports deeper cell turnover without the harshness of single-acid formulas.
Barrier-support system
Niacinamide decreases transepidermal water loss and regulates sebum, while centella asiatica's madecassoside content reduces inflammation and speeds post-exfoliation recovery. Glycerin and propanediol lock moisture during active cell shedding.
Tea tree and citrus actives
Melaleuca alternifolia leaf water and grapefruit peel oil deliver antimicrobial and sebum-regulating properties. These botanicals address active breakouts without competing with the exfoliating acids for skin penetration.
Rapid absorption
Butylene glycol and 1,2-hexanediol boost penetration of the acid blend while keeping the texture lightweight. The serum sits on skin for minutes before sinking in, allowing controlled acid contact time.
Plant extract consortium
Neem, turmeric, boswellia, and scutellaria baicalensis deliver antioxidant and soothing support. These traditional Asian botanicals reduce irritation and redness during the exfoliation window without masking the acid's efficacy.
Gradual texture refinement
The 30-day timeline (reflected in the product name) mirrors typical cell-cycle recovery. Consistent use reveals smoother pore appearance and finer lines as dead-cell buildup clears and collagen turnover accelerates.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThe acid blend (glycolic, lactic, malic, tartaric, pyruvic) remains on the skin surface and does not absorb systemically. Niacinamide and centella asiatica are confirmed safe throughout pregnancy. Patch-test first due to exfoliation intensity.
All ingredients in the INCI list are non-comedogenic for Malassezia-prone skin. Tea tree oil has documented antifungal activity. No oils or butters feed fungal populations; the formula drains quickly.
Individuals with active eczema, rosacea, or severe dermatitis should avoid until skin heals. The five-acid blend accelerates cellular turnover; damaged barriers cannot recover efficiently and may flare.
Space them on alternate nights (e.g., acids Monday, Wednesday, Friday; retinoid Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday).
Active exfoliation thins the stratum corneum temporarily, reducing natural UV protection. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory. Reapply every 2 hours during prolonged sun exposure, including near windows (UVA passes through glass).
Begin with 1–2 applications per week. After 1–2 weeks, increase to 3 times weekly if no irritation occurs. Jumping to daily use risks chemical burn-like sensations, persistent redness, and barrier collapse.
Do not use within 48 hours of microdermabrasion, chemical peels, laser, or professional extractions. Stacked exfoliation causes cumulative damage and severe inflammation.
Ingredient breakdown
INCIGlycolic Acid Proven
The smallest hydroxy acid, glycolic acid penetrates the stratum corneum rapidly to dissolve desmosomal bonds holding dead skin cells. It accelerates visible exfoliation within 3–7 days and refines pore appearance as buildup clears.
- Mechanism: Breaks down intercellular lipid bonds at the epidermis
- Benefit: Promotes cellular turnover and collagen remodeling
- Result: Smoother texture, smaller-looking pores, brighter complexion
Lactic Acid Proven
Lactic acid is larger than glycolic acid, so it penetrates more slowly and is gentler on sensitive skin. It hydrates as it exfoliates—the lactate ion supports the skin's natural moisture factor (NMF), reducing post-exfoliation dryness.
- Mechanism: Slower penetration means controlled, less-irritating exfoliation
- Benefit: Maintains hydration while dissolving dead-skin accumulation
- Result: Smoother skin without tight, dry sensation
Malic Acid Supporting
Malic acid works at a mid-depth, targeting deeper pore congestion and sebum oxidation. Its slightly larger molecular weight means it reaches lower in the epidermis than glycolic alone, supporting overall skin clarity.
- Mechanism: Intermediate penetration depth cleanses congested pores
- Benefit: Addresses blackheads and oil buildup below the surface
- Result: Visibly clearer, refined pore structure
Tartaric Acid Supporting
Tartaric acid contributes to the blend's antioxidant portfolio and supports the exfoliating complex with gentle, stabilizing action. Its presence reduces the harshness of glycolic acid alone and buffers the overall pH of the serum.
- Mechanism: Antioxidant support and pH modulation
- Benefit: Reduces irritation compared to single-acid formulas
- Result: Sustained exfoliation with lower sensitivity
Pyruvic Acid Supporting
The largest hydroxy acid in this blend, pyruvic acid penetrates deeper to support collagen remodeling and fine-line softening. Its molecular size means slower onset but longer-lasting effects on skin firmness.
- Mechanism: Deep epidermal penetration stimulates collagen synthesis
- Benefit: Reduces fine lines and supports skin elasticity
- Result: Firmer, smoother appearance over 2–4 weeks
Centella Asiatica Extract Proven
Centella asiatica extract (also called gotu kola) is a cornerstone K-beauty ingredient known for reducing irritation and strengthening the barrier. Its active compound, madecassoside, accelerates post-exfoliation healing by triggering collagen synthesis in fibroblasts.
- Mechanism: Madecassoside stimulates collagen I and III production
- Benefit: Reduces redness and healing time after acid exposure
- Result: Faster recovery; barrier resilience improves with repeated use
Niacinamide Proven
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) decreases transepidermal water loss, strengthens the stratum corneum, and regulates sebum production. During exfoliation, it prevents excessive moisture escape and reduces the inflammatory response to acid exposure.
- Mechanism: Increases ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis in the barrier
- Benefit: Reduces inflammation and prevents post-exfoliation sensitivity
- Result: Skin remains supple; less redness and tightness
Madecassoside Proven
Madecassoside is the purified active compound from centella asiatica, isolated for maximum potency. It directly signals fibroblasts to produce new collagen and reduces inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), essential during exfoliation recovery.
- Mechanism: Upregulates collagen synthesis; downregulates inflammatory signaling
- Benefit: Dramatically shortens post-exfoliation recovery window
- Result: Users can tolerate frequent exfoliation without persistent irritation
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water Supporting
Tea tree leaf water (melaleuca alternifolia) provides antimicrobial and sebum-regulating action. It reduces active breakouts without interfering with the exfoliating acids and supports the skin's natural defense against acne-causing bacteria.
- Mechanism: Terpineol and other volatiles inhibit bacterial growth
- Benefit: Clarifies active breakouts during exfoliation
- Result: Faster healing of pustules; reduced post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
64 ingredients
Water, Centella Asiatica Extract, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Propanediol, Alcohol, Niacinamide, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Bark Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Citrus Paradisi, (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Boswellia Carterii Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, Citric Acid, Glycolic Acid, Malic Acid, Lactic Acid, Pyruvic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract, Lactobionic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Ocimum Basilicum Leaf Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis, (Rosemary) Extract, Angelica Keiskei Extract, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Madecassoside.
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 04Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, when skin is completely dry. Use 2–3 drops and gently press into the face and neck, avoiding the eye area and lips. Wait 10–15 minutes before applying any other actives or moisturizers—the acids need contact time to dissolve dead skin. Start with 1–2 applications per week, gradually increasing to 3 times weekly after 2 weeks if skin feels resilient. In the morning, always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+. If combining with other actives (vitamin C, niacinamide serums), apply them on non-exfoliation nights to avoid over-exfoliation.
How to use
4 STEPSCleanse & tone
Start with clean, slightly damp skin after toner.
Dispense 2–3 drops
Drop into palms or directly onto face — a little goes a long way.
Pat to absorb
Gently pat into skin until fully absorbed. No need to rub.
Layer & seal
Follow with moisturizer to lock it in. Sunscreen the next morning.
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You have resilient, oily, or combination skin that tolerates active exfoliation
- You want faster cell turnover without the commitment of retinoids
- You struggle with congested pores, blackheads, or uneven texture
- You're ready to move beyond gentle physical exfoliation to chemical acids
- You want to brighten dull skin and refine pore appearance in 2–4 weeks
- You have acne-prone skin and benefit from tea tree and citrus oils
- You can commit to daily SPF during active exfoliation use
Consider alternatives if
- Your skin barrier is already compromised (eczema, severe rosacea, dermatitis)
- You're currently using tretinoin or other prescription retinoids daily
- You expect zero irritation or redness during the adjustment phase
- You're pregnant and prefer to avoid any exfoliation, even topical
- You have melasma and need predictable, stable skin tone (exfoliation can trigger flares)
- You need an all-in-one moisturizer; this serum requires a follow-up hydrating step
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESGlycerin and lactic acid help retain moisture, but the five-acid blend can over-dry if not followed with a rich moisturizer. Safe only if you layer an occlusive cream immediately after and use sparingly (once weekly initially).
Glycolic and malic acids cut through sebum buildup and refine pores; niacinamide regulates oil production. This skin type tolerates frequent exfoliation (3+ times weekly) and sees the most dramatic texture improvement.
The balanced acid blend works well on T-zone oiliness while the centella asiatica and glycerin protect drier cheek areas. Apply less product to dry zones or follow selectively with richer cream on those areas only.
Lactic acid and madecassoside are gentler than glycolic-only formulas, but start with once-weekly use and watch for persistent redness. If stinging lasts >10 minutes, buffer with a hydrating toner before application or discontinue.
Tea tree and grapefruit oils clarify active breakouts while the acids clear pore congestion underlying acne. This serum is specifically formulated for acne-prone routines and yields visible improvement in 2–4 weeks.
Pyruvic acid stimulates collagen remodeling, and consistent use softens fine lines. Glycerin and centella asiatica protect against over-exfoliation dryness.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Surface smoothing begins
Dead skin visibly sheds; texture becomes noticeably finer. Pores appear tighter as glycolic and lactic acids clear the stratum corneum. Mild redness is normal during this phase.
Users frequently noticed smoother, more refined textureClarity and glow emerge
Breakouts calm as malic acid clears congestion; tea tree oil's antimicrobial action prevents new pustules. Skin tone evens and looks brighter from consistent exfoliation and improved cell turnover.
Users frequently saw fewer active breakouts and less post-inflammatory marksPore refinement and firmness
Pyruvic acid's deeper collagen stimulation becomes evident; fine lines soften and skin feels plumper. Pore appearance improves substantially as sebum control solidifies.
Users frequently reported visible reduction in pore size and fine linesSustained glow and elasticity
Continued use maintains smooth texture and prevents congestion relapse. Skin feels firmer and looks radiant. Centella asiatica and madecassoside ensure barrier strength, allowing long-term tolerance without irritation.
65% maintained results with 3x-weekly use over 12 weeksRatings by platform
4.2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Five-acid blend targets multiple skin depths for comprehensive exfoliation
- Centella asiatica and madecassoside reduce recovery time and irritation
- Tea tree and citrus oils directly address acne and congestion
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture won't feel heavy or occlusive
- Niacinamide stabilizes the barrier during aggressive cell turnover
- Paraben-free, sulfate-free, and fragrance-free formulation minimizes irritation triggers
- Fungal-acne safe; all ingredients are non-Malassezia-feeding
- Results visible within 2 weeks for oily and acne-prone skin types
- Suitable for pregnancy and compatible with most routines
Criticized
- High exfoliation intensity demands disciplined SPF application daily
- Not suitable for active barrier damage or severe dermatitis
- Cannot be used with retinoids on the same night; requires alternate-day scheduling
- Floral and citrus scent may irritate hypersensitive olfaction (though fragrance-free)
- Requires titration; jumping to daily use risks chemical irritation and redness
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also combines AHA and BHA with soothing botanicals for exfoliation and breakout control. Lighter concentration and toner format make it gentler, so it costs less and suits beginners better.
Pure glycolic acid at a lower percentage than the Some By Mi blend, with no supporting plant actives. Efficacy is strong for texture but lacks centella asiatica's soothing and barrier support.
Works on deeper collagen remodeling rather than surface exfoliation; slower results but gentler for barrier-sensitive skin.
Combines AHA and antioxidants for gentle exfoliation with barrier support. Slightly less aggressive than Some By Mi's five-acid blend; costs more but delivers fewer irritation spikes for sensitive users.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Some By Mi — AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the formula is pregnancy-safe. The five hydroxy acids remain on the skin surface and do not absorb systemically. Centella asiatica and niacinamide are also confirmed safe throughout pregnancy. However, patch-test first on your inner arm for 24 hours to ensure no unexpected sensitivity, and always use SPF 30+ daily, as sun sensitivity increases during pregnancy.
Yes, all ingredients are Malassezia-safe and non-comedogenic for fungal-acne-prone skin. The glycolic, lactic, and malic acids help clear congestion; tea tree oil has antifungal properties. The fast-absorbing, oil-free texture ensures no buildup. Start with once-weekly application to monitor tolerance.
Apply this exfoliant on different nights from vitamin C serums, as both can increase irritation if stacked. However, niacinamide is already in this formula, so a separate niacinamide serum is redundant. If you want to add another active, use this on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and reserve Tuesday, Thursday for vitamin C or other treatments.
Start with one application per week on clean, dry skin. After 7 days, if no persistent redness, stinging, or dryness occurs, increase to twice weekly. After 2 more weeks, you can progress to 3 times weekly if your skin is resilient. Do not jump to daily use; gradual titration prevents over-exfoliation and barrier damage.
Yes. Glycolic and malic acids dissolve the dead skin and sebum impacted inside enlarged pores. With consistent use over 4–6 weeks, pores appear tighter and blackheads diminish as buildup clears. However, pore size is partly genetic; this serum refines appearance rather than permanently shrinking pores.
Use a hydrating, barrier-supportive moisturizer within 5–10 minutes of application. Light gel-creams or hydrating essences work well for oily skin; ceramide-rich creams suit dry or sensitive types. Avoid heavy oils or butters that might trap the acids and cause irritation. Follow with SPF in the morning.
Avoid this serum if your rosacea or eczema is active. The five-acid blend accelerates cell turnover, which can trigger flares in inflamed or compromised barriers. Wait until your skin is calm and stable for at least 2 weeks, then patch-test on your inner arm before introducing it gradually (once per week).
Apply SPF 30+ at least 10–15 minutes after the serum has been absorbed (once it feels completely dry). The acids temporarily thin the stratum corneum, so skip glass-blocking myths: UVA penetrates window glass, and you must reapply every 2 hours during outdoor time. Wear a hat and sunglasses as backup.
Verdict: Some By Mi's AHA-BHA-PHA Serum is a potent K-beauty exfoliant serum designed for progressive cell turnover over a 30-day cycle. The combination of five hydroxy acids—glycolic, lactic, malic, tartaric, and pyruvic—targets congestion, texture, and early signs of aging across different epidermal depths. Centella asiatica and its active madecassoside counterbalance the intensity by accelerating post-exfoliation healing and barrier repair, while niacinamide prevents moisture loss during active exfoliation. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula and fungal-acne-safe profile make it a reliable choice for oily and acne-prone skin. The main limitations are the steep learning curve—users must titrate carefully to avoid irritation—and the absolute requirement for daily SPF during use. This serum is an excellent fit for someone with resilient, oily or combination skin who is ready to move beyond gentle physical exfoliation and wants visible texture refinement, pore clarity, and mild collagen stimulation in 4–6 weeks of consistent use.
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
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.