Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel
Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel
Product Description
Product overview
By Then I Met You — A sulfate-free, pH-balanced jelly gel cleanser powered by fermented rice water (sake) as its #1 ingredient, infused with brightening licorice root, calming centella asiatica, antioxidant green tea, and gentle PHA (gluconolactone) to cleanse, brighten, and soothe skin without stripping. Formulated at a gentle pH of 6, this bouncy second-step cleanser removes water-based impurities while keeping the skin barrier intact.
Rice Ferment Filtrate as #1 Ingredient
Unlike most cleansers that lead with water, this formula places fermented rice water (sake) first — delivering a concentrated dose of brightening enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants with every wash.
Texture & feel
SENSORYRice Ferment Filtrate as #1 Ingredient
Unlike most cleansers that lead with water, this formula places fermented rice water (sake) first — delivering a concentrated dose of brightening enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants with every wash.
Gentle pH 6 — Barrier-Respectful
Formulated at a skin-compatible pH of 6, this cleanser removes impurities without disrupting the acid mantle, keeping your microbiome and barrier intact for healthier skin long-term.
Multi-Botanical Brightening Complex
Licorice root extract (glabridin + glycyrrhizin), green tea polyphenols, and centella asiatica work synergistically to visibly even skin tone, calm redness, and defend against environmental damage.
Gentle PHA Exfoliation (Gluconolactone)
Gluconolactone is a larger-molecule PHA that exfoliates far more gently than AHAs or BHAs, making it safe even for sensitive and reactive skin types while smoothing texture over time.
Hydrating While Cleansing
Glycerin, sorbitol, diglycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and panthenol hydrate skin throughout the cleansing process — so skin feels soft and plump, never tight or stripped after rinsing.
Doubles as a 3-Minute Purifying Mask
Apply to damp skin and leave on for 3 minutes before rinsing to boost the clarifying and brightening benefits — a multi-use function that adds versatility to your routine.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, and high-dose essential oils. The botanical essential oils (tea tree, bitter orange flower, thuja) are present at low cosmetic concentrations. Generally considered safe, but always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Rice Ferment Filtrate and Oryza Sativa Bran Oil, which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast in susceptible individuals. The formula also contains Glyceryl Caprylate (anti-fungal) and Tea Tree Extract which may counterbalance this. Those with active fungal acne should patch test carefully.
The primary oils used (Rice Bran Oil, rated 2) are low-comedogenic. Surfactant-based cleansers are rinsed off, significantly reducing the risk of pore-clogging. Suitable for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin.
Uses gentler sulfosuccinate-based surfactants (Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate) and amino acid surfactants (Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate) instead of harsh SLS/SLES. Far less stripping on the skin barrier.
This is a rinse-off cleanser — it can safely be used in routines that include retinol, vitamin C, and other actives. The mild PHA (gluconolactone) is compatible with most actives without irritation.
Contains Anthemis Nobilis (Roman Chamomile) Flower Oil, Thuja Occidentalis Leaf Oil, and Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Extract at low cosmetic concentrations. Highly reactive or essential oil-sensitive individuals should patch test before full use.
Free of parabens, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclocarban, triclosan, and SLS/SLES. Meets Sephora Clean Beauty standards.
No animal-derived ingredients. Not tested on animals. Gluten-free formula suitable for those with gluten sensitivities in topical products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRice Ferment Filtrate (Sake) #1 IngredientProven
The star ingredient and the highest-concentration component in this formula. Fermented rice water (sake) is rich in kojic acid, ferulic acid, inositol, vitamins B and E, and brightening enzymes. Fermentation enhances bioavailability and efficacy compared to plain rice water.
- Brightening: Kojic acid inhibits tyrosinase, reducing melanin synthesis and dark spot formation with consistent use.
- Anti-Aging: A 2013 study found fermented rice water increased collagen production and reduced UV-induced skin damage.
- Nourishing: Contains amino acids and B vitamins that condition and soften skin texture.
- pH Compatible: Rice ferment has an optimal pH that doesn't disrupt the skin's acid mantle.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (Licorice Root) ~0.5–2%Proven
One of the most well-researched brightening and anti-inflammatory ingredients in skincare. Licorice root contains glabridin (depigmentation), glycyrrhizin (anti-inflammatory), and liquiritin (brightening by tyrosinase inhibition and melanin dispersal).
- Brightening: Glabridin blocks UVB-induced hyperpigmentation in study models; liquiritin disperses existing melanin.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Glycyrrhizin significantly reduces redness, irritation, and inflammatory skin conditions including atopic dermatitis and rosacea.
- Antioxidant: Flavonoids in licorice neutralize free radicals and protect collagen integrity.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) ~0.1–1%Proven
Green tea extract is rich in EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and other catechins — among the most potent antioxidants studied in dermatology. Neutralizes UV-induced free radicals, reduces visible inflammation, and may slow collagen breakdown.
- Antioxidant: EGCG is one of the most studied topical antioxidants; neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS).
- Anti-Aging: Inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that break down collagen and elastin.
- Calming: Reduces erythema and skin sensitivity from environmental stressors.
Centella Asiatica Extract ~0.1–1%Proven
A K-beauty staple backed by extensive clinical data. Contains asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid — collectively called centelloids — that promote wound healing, barrier repair, and collagen synthesis.
- Barrier Repair: Promotes ceramide synthesis and supports restoration of compromised skin barriers.
- Wound Healing: Multiple studies show centella reduces healing time and improves the appearance of scars and blemishes.
- Hydration: Centelloids enhance moisture retention and trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) reduction.
Gluconolactone (PHA) ~0.5–2%Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) derived naturally from glucose. Larger molecule than AHAs means it penetrates slower and more gently — delivering exfoliation without sensitization, making it ideal for sensitive and reactive skin types.
- Exfoliation: Gently loosens dead skin cells from the surface to reveal smoother, brighter skin over time.
- Antioxidant: Unlike AHAs, gluconolactone has antioxidant properties that protect skin during exfoliation.
- Humectant: Also acts as a hydrating agent, reducing the dryness associated with traditional exfoliants.
- Sensitive Skin Safe: Clinical studies confirm PHAs produce less stinging and irritation than glycolic or lactic acid.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid Salt) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with slightly smaller molecular size for better penetration into the upper dermis. Functions as a powerful humectant that binds up to 1,000x its weight in water to keep skin plump and supple even after cleansing.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains water in the stratum corneum, preventing post-cleanse tightness.
- Plumping: Temporarily plumps fine lines by volumizing the hydration levels in upper skin layers.
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract (Tea Tree) ~0.1–0.5%Proven
A well-established antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory botanical. Terpinen-4-ol, the primary active, has demonstrated activity against acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes) and anti-inflammatory effects on breakout-prone skin.
- Antimicrobial: Terpinen-4-ol inhibits C. acnes growth, helping prevent breakouts with regular use.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces swelling and redness associated with inflammatory acne lesions.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.1–1%Proven
Panthenol converts to pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) in the skin, where it functions as a humectant, emollient, and wound-healing agent. A widely trusted ingredient for soothing irritated and compromised skin.
- Humectant: Draws moisture into the skin and retains it, improving hydration levels.
- Barrier Support: Promotes synthesis of skin lipids and proteins, supporting barrier function.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms redness and sensitivity; well-tolerated by virtually all skin types.
35 ingredients
Water, Rice Ferment Filtrate, Glycerin, Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Sorbitol, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Diglycerin, Potassium Cocoate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Propylene Glycol, Oryza Sativa Bran Oil, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Gluconolactone, Citric Acid, Theobroma Cacao Extract, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Thuja Occidentalis Leaf Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Extract, Polyglycerin-3, Dextrin, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, T-Butyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis is asecond-step water-based cleanser — use it after an oil cleanser or cleansing balm (like the Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm) to remove water-based impurities. Can also be used solo on makeup-free mornings.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with Wet Hands & Damp Face
After completing the first cleanse with an oil-based cleanser, rinse your face and keep it damp. Wet your hands thoroughly — this activates the gel and creates a gentle lather.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze just a pea-sized amount onto your palm — the concentrated, bouncy gel goes a long way. Using more than needed will not improve cleansing results and may feel difficult to rinse off.
Lather and Massage into Skin
Rub between your palms to activate the gel into a light lather, then massage gently in circular motions across your face for 30–60 seconds. Focus on areas prone to congestion like T-zone and sides of nose.
Optional: Use as a 3-Minute Mask
For an enhanced cleanse and brightening boost, apply to damp skin, leave on for 3 minutes, then rinse. The gluconolactone and botanical extracts have more time to act on pores and even skin tone.
Rinse Thoroughly with Lukewarm Water
Rinse completely with lukewarm (not hot) water to ensure all residue is removed. Gently pat dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Proceed immediately with your next skincare step to lock in hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You double cleanse and need a gentle, effective second step
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin looking for a brightening cleanser
- You want a cleanser that provides gentle exfoliation (PHA) without a separate exfoliating step
- You love K-beauty philosophy with clean, ingredient-focused formulations
- You're looking for a sulfate-free cleanser that doesn't strip or dry out skin
- You want to address dullness and uneven skin tone in your cleansing step
- You're pregnant and want a cleanser without retinoids or salicylic acid
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) and are highly sensitive to ferments
- You have extremely reactive skin sensitive to all essential oils
- You prefer a foaming cleanser with more of a lather experience
- You have very dry skin and already experience tightness from gel cleansers
- Budget is a primary concern — comparable results available at lower price points
- You dislike herbal or earthy natural scents
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe gel formula cleanses excess sebum thoroughly, and gluconolactone helps keep pores clear. Tea tree and antibacterial agents help prevent breakouts without over-drying.
Balances oily zones while keeping drier areas comfortable. The humectant complex of glycerin, sorbitol, and hyaluronate prevents post-wash tightness on cheeks and dry patches.
An ideal daily cleanser for normal skin seeking additional brightening and gentle exfoliation benefits. Leaves skin clean, soft, and balanced with a healthy glow.
The sulfate-free, pH-balanced formula is gentle enough for most sensitive skin. However, the presence of tea tree, chamomile oil, and thuja oil means patch testing is recommended for very reactive skin.
Tea tree, gluconolactone (PHA), and centella asiatica form a powerful trio for acne-prone skin — clearing pores, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing without harsh irritation.
Some dry-skin users report slight tightness after rinsing. Best used as a second cleanse (not sole cleanser) and followed immediately by a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer to restore comfort.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Noticeably Clean & Refreshed Skin
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed, soft, and balanced immediately after rinsing. The bouncy jelly texture provides a sensorial cleansing experience, and skin is left neither tight nor greasy.
98% felt gentle and non-irritating (clinical study)Calmer, Less Congested Skin
With consistent double cleansing, pores appear less congested as water-based impurities are effectively removed daily. Tea tree and gluconolactone begin to work on existing blemishes and minimize new breakouts.
97% said it helped calm breakouts (clinical study, 31 women)Visible Brightening & Smoother Texture
The PHA (gluconolactone) accelerates cell turnover, resulting in smoother skin texture. Licorice root and rice ferment filtrate begin to visibly brighten dull areas and reduce the appearance of minor discoloration.
~85% of consistent users report brighter skin within 4 weeksImproved Radiance & Even Skin Tone
Long-term use of licorice root, green tea, and fermented rice creates a compounding brightening and antioxidant effect. Skin appears more radiant, post-blemish marks fade faster, and overall complexion looks healthier.
~90% of long-term users rate their skin significantly healthierRatings by platform
973+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Rice Ferment Filtrate as #1 ingredient — rare and genuinely brightening
- pH 6 formula respects the acid mantle and skin barrier
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, and Sephora Clean certified
- Gentle PHA exfoliation (gluconolactone) suitable for sensitive skin
- Multi-botanical complex — licorice, green tea, centella, tea tree
- Doubles as a 3-minute purifying mask for enhanced benefits
- Unique, bouncy jelly texture provides a sensorial cleansing experience
- Leaves skin soft and hydrated, not stripped
- Multiple award wins — Brides Beauty Award Best Cleanser
- A pea-sized amount is sufficient, making the product last
Criticized
- Premium price ($38) for 100ml is expensive vs. comparable options
- Polarizing herbal/earthy scent from botanical ingredients — not for everyone
- Thick, sticky jelly texture can feel unusual; takes adjustment period
- Contains ferments and rice bran oil — potentially problematic for fungal acne
- Some dry skin users report slight tightness post-rinse
- Essential oils present (chamomile, thuja, bitter orange) may irritate very reactive skin
- Tube packaging can be messy with sticky residue around cap
- Similar brightening results achievable with more affordable Korean cleansers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similarly gel-based, sulfate-free, and pH-balanced (~5.0). Contains tea tree oil and BHA (betaine salicylate) for blemish control. Lacks the rice ferment and licorice brightening complex but is significantly more affordable and widely praised for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
Contains a triple acid complex including PHA alongside centella asiatica, niacinamide, and tea tree. Similar brightening and blemish-fighting goals at a fraction of the price, though it is a toner format rather than a gel cleanser.
A gentle, sulfate-free K-beauty gel cleanser with a hydrating, non-stripping formula and soothing botanical extracts. Less brightening-focused than the Then I Met You formula but shares the gentle, barrier-respectful philosophy at a lower price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol (open jar icon) on the packaging for the number.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep away from extreme temperatures. Do not store in a humid bathroom environment for extended periods — a bedroom vanity is ideal.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap (100ml / 3.38 fl oz). The thick jelly formula means residue can accumulate around the cap — wipe clean after each use to prevent buildup. Iconic periwinkle blue packaging.
Yes — 100ml is TSA-approved and within the 3-1-1 carry-on liquid limit. A pea-sized amount per use means a full tube lasts approximately 3–4 months, making it excellent value for travel routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQGenerally yes — this cleanser is free of the main ingredients flagged during pregnancy, including retinoids (retinol, retinyl palmitate), salicylic acid at exfoliating doses, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreen filters. The formula is sulfate-free and does not contain parabens or phthalates. The botanical essential oils (tea tree, chamomile, thuja, bitter orange) are present at low cosmetic concentrations in a rinse-off formula, which further reduces any systemic exposure risk. However, as with any skincare product during pregnancy, we recommend consulting your OB-GYN or midwife before use, as individual sensitivities can vary.
Use with caution if you have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Rice Ferment Filtrate and Oryza Sativa Bran Oil, both of which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast — the organism responsible for fungal acne. On the flip side, the formula also contains Glyceryl Caprylate (a known antifungal emollient) and Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract (tea tree, which has antifungal activity), which may partially counterbalance this. As a rinse-off cleanser, contact time with the skin is short, which reduces the risk compared to leave-on products. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider patch testing first and monitoring for any flare-ups.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, the Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel is fully compatible with all leave-on actives including retinol, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). The cleanser's own mild PHA (gluconolactone) is gentle and won't increase sensitivity to other actives. In fact, using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser before applying these actives is ideal — it prepares the skin's pH for optimal absorption. Simply cleanse, then apply your actives as normal in your routine.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types — and also works well for most sensitive skin. The sulfate-free, pH 6 formula cleanses effectively without stripping, making it suitable for a wide range. Oily and acne-prone skin benefit most from the tea tree, gluconolactone, and licorice root complex. Dry skin types should use it as the second step of a double cleanse (not as a sole cleanser) and follow immediately with a rich hydrating toner and moisturizer to offset any potential tightness. Very dry or compromised skin types may prefer a creamier, more emollient cleanser.
You'll notice soft, clean, and balanced skin from the very first use. For brightening effects (from rice ferment filtrate and licorice root), most users begin to see visible improvements in radiance and skin tone after 3–4 weeks of consistent daily use. The PHA (gluconolactone) provides gentle exfoliation that can smooth skin texture within 2–3 weeks. For significant improvements in dark spots or post-blemish marks, allow 6–8 weeks of consistent use. Pair with a dedicated vitamin C serum or niacinamide product for enhanced brightening results.
This gel cleanser is designed as the second step of a double cleanse — use it after an oil cleanser or cleansing balm (such as the Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm) to remove water-based impurities like sweat, pollution, and remaining residue. The full routine order is: (1) Oil Cleanser → (2) Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel → (3) Toner/Essence → (4) Serum/Treatment → (5) Moisturizer → (6) Sunscreen (AM only). On low-pollution, makeup-free mornings, it can be used as your only cleanser. Use morning and/or evening as desired.
No, this cleanser is considered low-comedogenic with an overall rating of 1/5. The primary oil in the formula, Oryza Sativa Bran Oil, carries a comedogenic rating of 2 (low). However, since this is a rinse-off cleanser, the risk of pore-clogging is dramatically reduced compared to leave-on moisturizers or serums — the oils and emollients are washed away with water before they can interact with pores. The formula is appropriate for oily and acne-prone skin types. If you are highly sensitive to rice bran oil specifically, be aware of its presence.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, as indicated by the open jar symbol on the packaging. Because this cleanser is highly concentrated and a pea-sized amount is sufficient per use, a single 100ml tube typically lasts 3–4 months with twice-daily use (morning and evening). This means you'll stay well within the 12-month PAO under normal usage. Store at room temperature away from humidity and direct sunlight to maintain stability. Discard if you notice any change in color, smell, or texture before the PAO date.
Verdict: The Then I Met You Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel is a genuinely differentiated, formulation-forward cleanser that stands out in a crowded market. What separates it from the competition is the decision to lead withRice Ferment Filtrate (sake) as the #1 ingredient — not water — delivering a concentrated brightening and nourishing benefit in every wash. ThepH 6 formula, sulfate-free surfactant system, and multi-botanical active complex (licorice, green tea, centella, tea tree, PHA) reflect Charlotte Cho's deep understanding of K-beauty science. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin seeking a single cleanser that simultaneously cleanses, brightens, exfoliates gently, and soothes — this is an excellent choice. The premium price ($38 for 100ml) is the primary trade-off, and those on a budget will find comparable results from more affordable alternatives. The polarizing jelly texture and herbal scent are personal preference factors. Overall, for those who align with the formula's philosophy, this is one of the best brightening gel cleansers available in the K-beauty inspired space.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Rice Ferment Filtrate
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Dark Spots
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Diethylhexyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Hydrotrope, Surfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|