Soothing Daily Moisturizer
Soothing Daily Moisturizer
Product Description
Almond Clear Soothing Daily Moisturizer is a creamy yet lightweight, fragrance-free daily moisturizer built for acne-, folliculitis- and fungal-acne-prone skin. It absorbs fast with no greasy residue, helping to maintain and repair the skin barrier with squalane, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, gentle vitamin C and calming botanical extracts.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Barrier Repair & Support
Squalane and pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol) help maintain and rebuild the skin's protective barrier after flares.
Soothing Botanicals
Aloe vera, chamomile, honeysuckle and comfrey extracts calm visible redness and irritation in reactive skin.
Antioxidant Brightening
Stable vitamin C (sodium ascorbyl phosphate), vitamin E and CoQ10 work to defend against free radicals and dullness.
Lightweight Hydration
Glycerin plus sodium hyaluronate deliver lasting moisture without heaviness, oils or a sticky finish.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical UV filters. As always, confirm with your doctor.
Free of fragrance, esters and fatty alcohols that feed malassezia. Marketed by the brand as 100% fungal-acne safe.
Independently reviewed as roughly 91% top-allergen free, with no added fragrance β friendly for sensitive skin.
No comedogenic oils, silicones, parabens or sulfates, so it won't clog pores for most users.
Plays well over vitamin C, niacinamide or mandelic serums and under sunscreen and makeup.
Used here as a gentle preservative. Very reactive or alcohol-sensitive skin should patch test first.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π΅ Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Base Proven
The first ingredient in the formula, replacing water with soothing aloe. It calms, lightly hydrates and supplies antioxidant vitamins A, C and E.
- Soothing: Long used to calm sunburn and irritation thanks to anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Hydration: Natural sugars (polysaccharides) help bind moisture to the skin.
𫧠Squalane Emollient Proven
A lightweight, skin-identical emollient that softens and locks in moisture without feeling greasy. It mimics oils our own skin produces.
- Non-irritating: Research shows squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration.
- Antioxidant: Helps fight free radicals while reinforcing the barrier.
π§ Glycerin Humectant Proven
A gold-standard humectant already found naturally in skin. It pulls water into the deeper layers to keep skin hydrated and the barrier strong.
- Effective: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Barrier: Hydrated skin defends better against irritants and bacteria.
π Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid β more stable and better absorbed. It holds many times its weight in water for plump, hydrated skin.
- Water magnet: Naturally occurs in the body and is a powerful skin-hydrating humectant.
- Pairing: Works alongside glycerin and aloe for layered hydration.
π Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate Vitamin C Proven
A gentle, stable form of vitamin C β less irritating than pure ascorbic acid and more resistant to light and oxygen. It brightens and supports collagen.
- Brightening: Helps reduce the look of dark spots and uneven tone.
- Acne support: A 2011 study found it has antibacterial properties that may help blemish-prone skin.
π° Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Vitamin E Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects against free radicals and strengthens the skin's lipid barrier. It also stabilises vitamin C.
- Protection: Helps reduce UVB-related damage (does not replace sunscreen).
- Synergy: Vitamin C + E together are more effective than either alone.
π©Ή Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Pro-B5 Proven
A humectant and skin-soothing ingredient that penetrates deeply to hydrate, calm and support wound healing β ideal after flare-ups.
- Soothing: Helps reduce the look of redness and supports barrier recovery.
- Healing: Known to assist tissue repair and closing of minor skin damage.
β‘ Ubiquinone (CoQ10) CoQ10 Promising
A potent antioxidant naturally present in skin that declines with age and sun exposure. Topically it helps replenish levels and defend the upper layers.
- Anti-aging: Studies show topical use can restore skin's natural ubiquinone.
- Defense: Protects upper layers, helping prevent deeper free-radical damage.
17 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Squalane, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopherol, Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Leaf Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Leaf Extract, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Phytate, Panthenol, Ubiquinone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use morning and night. As a lightweight moisturizer it sits comfortably under SPF and makeup, and can be a final step in a simple PM routine.
π How to Use
Cleanse
Start with freshly washed, slightly damp skin to lock in extra hydration.
Apply Treatments
Layer any serums first β mandelic acid, vitamin C or niacinamide work well here.
Moisturize
Massage a pea-to-dime-sized amount over face (and body, if needed) until absorbed. Use AM & PM.
Protect (AM)
Always finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have acne-, folliculitis- or fungal-acne-prone skin
- You want lightweight hydration that layers under SPF and makeup
- You have sensitive or reactive skin and avoid fragrance
- You're recovering from a breakout or barrier flare and need calm, simple moisture
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin needing a rich, occlusive cream (may need layering)
- You want a fragranced, indulgent sensory experience
- You're after clinical-strength actives like retinoids or high-% acids
- You have a known sensitivity to benzyl alcohol
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight and oil-free; hydrates without adding shine or heaviness.
Balances hydration across drier and oilier zones with a neutral finish.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe β designed for blemish- and folliculitis-prone skin.
Fragrance-free and soothing; patch test recommended due to benzyl alcohol.
Hydrating but lightweight β very dry skin may want a richer cream or oil on top.
π Results Timeline
Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels soothed, hydrated and soft with no greasy film β pleasant under makeup and SPF.
90% noticedCalmer, Smoother Skin
Reduced visible redness and irritation; bumpy texture from clogged pores starts to settle.
70% noticedStronger Barrier
Fewer flare-ups and faster recovery after fungal or hormonal breakouts as the barrier rebuilds.
60% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Cumulative antioxidant support from vitamin C, E and CoQ10 helps skin look more radiant.
50% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Lightweight, absorbs fast with no greasy residue
- Genuinely soothing for irritated and reactive skin
- Fungal-acne and folliculitis safe
- Sits beautifully under SPF and makeup
- Fragrance-free and low-allergen
- Helps skin recover after fungal or hormonal flares
β Criticized
- Frequently sold out / recently discontinued
- Not rich enough for very dry skin on its own
- Can congest pores for a small number of users over time
- Considered pricey for a simple formula by some
- Active percentages are not disclosed
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Fungal-acne-safe gel-cream with glycerin and ectoin. Lighter and more gel-like than the Almond Clear cream, with fewer soothing botanicals and antioxidants.
French-pharmacy minimalist formula with niacinamide, fragrance-free and fungal-acne safe. Slightly mattifying with far fewer ingredients and a much smaller bottle.
K-beauty fungal-acne-safe gel cream centred on soothing oat. More of a watery gel finish; great for calming but less of a barrier-repair cream.
π Comparison with Competitors
Almond Clear Soothing Daily Moisturizer (Featured)
$34.95La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Fluide
$24.99Geek & Gorgeous Hydration Station
$12.00Malezia 5% Urea Moisturizer
$17.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
6.7 oz (198 ml) bottle
Full size 198 ml exceeds the 100 ml carry-on limit β pack in checked luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical UV filters β the ingredients most often avoided during pregnancy. It relies on aloe, squalane, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, a gentle vitamin C (sodium ascorbyl phosphate) and soothing botanicals. As with any product, confirm with your doctor or OB-GYN before use.
Yes. It's free of fragrance, esters and fatty alcohols that typically feed malassezia, and Almond Clear formulates and markets it as 100% fungal-acne safe β it's a favourite among people managing folliculitis and fungal acne. If you're extremely strict, note the brand uses C13-14 isoparaffin (a hydrocarbon they've explained is FA-safe) and recommends sugarcane-derived squalane for malassezia concerns.
Yes. As a simple, soothing moisturizer it layers well over active serums. Apply your retinol, vitamin C, AHA or BHA first, let it absorb, then seal everything in with this moisturizer. It can actually help buffer irritation from stronger actives. Introduce new actives one at a time.
It's best for oily, combination, sensitive and especially acne-, folliculitis- and fungal-acne-prone skin. Very dry skin can use it too but may want a richer cream or facial oil layered on top for extra occlusion.
Comfort and hydration are immediate. Most users notice calmer, less irritated skin within 1β2 weeks, fewer flare-ups and a stronger barrier around 4 weeks, and brighter, more even tone with continued antioxidant support after 8+ weeks.
After cleansing, toner and any serums, and before facial oil (PM) or sunscreen (AM). It works morning and night and sits comfortably under SPF and makeup.
It's formulated to be non-comedogenic, oil-free and silicone-free, so it shouldn't clog pores for most people (a comedogenic rating of about 1/5). A small number of reviewers found it congested their pores with long-term daily use, so monitor your own skin.
Around 12 months after opening (PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to keep the antioxidants and botanicals at their best.
Verdict: The Almond Clear Soothing Daily Moisturizer is a quietly excellent, no-nonsense daily moisturizer that punches above its category. It pairs lightweight, fragrance-free hydration with a thoughtful blend of barrier-supporting squalane and panthenol, soothing botanicals, and antioxidant vitamin C, E and CoQ10 β all in a fungal-acne-safe, non-comedogenic formula loved by folliculitis- and acne-prone users. At 6.7 oz for $34.95 it's also strong value per ounce versus smaller competitors. The main drawbacks are availability (it's prone to selling out) and that very dry skin may want something richer on top. For reactive, breakout-prone skin seeking calm, reliable everyday moisture, it's an easy 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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Antioxidant
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Redness
Texture
Pores
|