Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum
Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum
Product Description
The most powerful yet gentle daily clarifying serum from Glow Recipe, powered by a 10% Clarity Acid Complex β 2% encapsulated salicylic acid (BHA) + mandelic acid (AHA) β to smooth texture, decongest pores, and calm breakouts, all while hyaluronic acid and allantoin keep skin visibly hydrated and soft.
β¨ Texture & Feel
10% Clarity Acid Complexβ’
A precise blend of 2% encapsulated salicylic acid (BHA), 1% mandelic acid (AHA), 3.5% strawberry extract, 3% azelaic acid, and 0.5% succinic acid β calibrated to clear pores and smooth texture without over-drying.
Encapsulated BHA Delivery
The salicylic acid is encapsulated at a pH closer to skin's natural level, releasing slowly for targeted exfoliation with minimized irritation β ideal for sensitive and first-time acid users.
Hydration-Balanced Formula
Hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate) and allantoin counterbalance the exfoliating action, maintaining moisture levels and preventing the tightness or dryness typical of acid treatments.
Multi-Benefit Brightening
Niacinamide, azelaic acid, and strawberry extract work in synergy to visibly even skin tone, reduce redness, and fade post-blemish marks over consistent use.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Not recommended. Contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy and nursing. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.
Use with caution. Contains Saccharomyces Ferment and Lecithin, which may feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne in susceptible individuals. Patch test recommended.
Very low comedogenic potential. No heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. Specifically formulated for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Formulated with bisabolol, allantoin, and mandelic acid β gentler actives that deliver exfoliation with reduced irritation, suitable for reactive skin when introduced gradually.
Glow Recipe confirms this serum can be layered with retinol products. The encapsulated BHA is gentle enough to use alongside retinoids, despite the common misconception otherwise.
The brand specifically advises against pairing this serum with benzoyl peroxide, as the combination may cause increased irritation or reduce efficacy of both actives.
Can generally be layered with vitamin C serums in routine. Apply vitamin C first, allow to absorb, then follow with this serum. Introduce combination gradually if skin is reactive.
As with all AHA/BHA exfoliants, daily SPF 30+ is essential when using this serum in the morning. Acids increase photosensitivity, raising risk of UV-induced pigmentation.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧴠Salicylic Acid (Encapsulated BHA) 2% Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, exfoliate dead skin cells, and reduce inflammation. Glow Recipe uses an encapsulated form for a controlled, pH-optimized release that minimizes irritation.
- Mechanism: Keratolytic action breaks down keratin bonds, loosening dead skin cells and preventing comedone formation.
- FDA Recognition: Recognized as an OTC acne-fighting ingredient at concentrations of 0.5β2%.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Structurally related to aspirin; calms redness and irritation alongside its exfoliating action.
- Encapsulation Benefit: Releases gradually at skin's natural pH, reducing the risk of barrier disruption vs. free-form salicylic acid.
πΈ Mandelic Acid (AHA) 1% Proven
An alpha-hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds with a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, resulting in slower, more uniform penetration. This makes it one of the most gentle AHAs available, ideal for first-time acid users and sensitive skin types.
- Exfoliation: Dissolves desmosomes (cell bonds) on the skin surface, speeding up cell turnover for smoother texture.
- Antibacterial: Research shows mandelic acid has mild antibacterial properties, helping control acne-causing bacteria.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase activity, contributing to a more even skin tone over time.
- Gentle Profile: Its larger molecule size means slower skin penetration and reduced risk of stinging compared to glycolic or lactic acid.
π Strawberry Fruit & Leaf Extract 3.5% Proven
Fragaria vesca fruit and leaf extracts provide natural enzymes, ellagic acid, and antioxidants that support skin resurfacing, help regulate excess sebum, and protect against oxidative stress. The dual-extract approach combines surface-level fruit action with the deeper polyphenol content found in the leaves.
- Ellagic Acid: A polyphenol antioxidant in strawberry known to inhibit melanin production, supporting brightening benefits.
- Vitamin C (Natural): Strawberry is a natural source of ascorbic acid, offering mild antioxidant protection.
- Sebum Regulation: Natural enzymes help balance oil production, complementing the BHA's oil-dissolving action.
π΄ Azelaic Acid 3% Proven
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid with a remarkable multi-tasking profile: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and brightening. At 3%, it provides synergistic support to the BHA complex, reducing redness and calming sensitized, blemish-prone skin.
- Antibacterial: Disrupts bacterial protein synthesis; effective against C. acnes, the primary acne-causing bacterium.
- Tyrosinase Inhibitor: Reduces dark spot formation and helps fade post-acne hyperpigmentation.
- Rosacea Support: Clinically used in prescription concentrations for rosacea; even lower levels have documented calming effects.
π Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) trace Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid β a smaller molecule that penetrates beyond the skin surface to deliver deep hydration. Crucial in this formula for counterbalancing the drying effect of exfoliating acids and maintaining plumpness.
- Humectant Power: Binds up to 1,000x its weight in water from the environment and deeper skin layers.
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier integrity while acids work beneath the surface.
πΌ Allantoin trace Proven
A naturally derived soothing agent that accelerates skin cell renewal, protects the skin barrier, and reduces sensitivity. Perfectly paired with exfoliants to prevent irritation and redness.
- Keratolytic Helper: Softens keratin proteins, enhancing the exfoliating action of salicylic and mandelic acid.
- Anti-Irritant: Documented in studies as a reliable skin-calming and healing ingredient.
β¨ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) trace Proven
One of the most extensively researched skincare actives. Niacinamide works synergistically with the exfoliating acids to strengthen the skin barrier, control sebum, fade dark spots, and smooth the look of pores.
- Barrier Strengthening: Increases ceramide synthesis, reinforcing the skin's lipid barrier.
- Sebum Control: Clinically shown to reduce sebum excretion by up to 31% at 2% concentration.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer, gradually fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
πΏ Bisabolol trace Proven
A naturally derived chamomile extract used widely in sensitive skin formulations. Bisabolol provides deep calming action, reduces redness, and may enhance the penetration of other active ingredients.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Inhibits 5-lipoxygenase enzyme activity, reducing skin redness and sensitivity.
- Penetration Enhancer: Research indicates bisabolol can improve absorption of co-formulated actives.
36 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Methylpropanediol, C9-12 Alkane, Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Fruit Extract, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Salicylic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Mandelic Acid, Succinic Acid, Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Leaf Extract, Azelaic Acid, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Bisabolol, Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Prickly Pear) Flower Extract, Niacinamide, Glucosamine, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment, Dextrin, Polydextrose, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Amylopectin, Butylene Glycol, Succinoglycan, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Lauroyl Lysine, Sodium Phytate, Lecithin, Aminomethyl Propanol, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Fragrance/Parfum* (*100% Naturally Derived)
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after toner on clean, slightly damp skin. Pat gently β do not rub. Follow with moisturizer and SPF in the morning. Suitable for both AM and PM routines. If layering with other exfoliants, start with this serum in alternating routines and increase frequency once your skin acclimates.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove makeup, SPF, and impurities. Pat skin dry, leaving it slightly damp β damp skin enhances serum absorption.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a toner, apply first and allow it to absorb before the serum. Avoid using another exfoliating toner (with AHA/BHA/PHA) in the same routine step if you are new to acids.
Dispense 1β2 Pumps
Press the spray pump once or twice to dispense the serum onto your fingertips or directly onto the face. A little goes a long way β 1 pump is often sufficient for a full face application.
Pat Gently onto Face and Neck
Use fingertips to gently pat the serum across your entire face and neck until fully absorbed. Patting (not rubbing) encourages deeper penetration and avoids disturbing the formula's structure.
Follow with Moisturizer
Lock in the serum with your regular moisturizer. A richer moisturizer is particularly helpful in the first 2β3 weeks while your skin acclimates to daily acid use.
Apply SPF in the Morning (Mandatory)
AHA and BHA exfoliants increase UV sensitivity. Always finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to prevent sun damage and hyperpigmentation.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with clogged pores, blackheads, or whiteheads
- You want to smooth rough skin texture or bumpy skin
- You are new to acid treatments and want a gentle entry point
- You want a serum that exfoliates and hydrates simultaneously
- You have post-acne dark marks you want to fade
- You prefer fruit-forward, K-beauty inspired formulas
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (salicylic acid)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have an extremely compromised or irritated skin barrier
- You are highly sensitive to fragrance (contains naturally derived parfum)
- You prefer a budget-friendly acid option
- You need higher-concentration AHA for more aggressive resurfacing
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The BHA complex penetrates oil-laden pores to dissolve sebum buildup, while the water-gel texture absorbs without adding any greasiness or shine. Ideal daily use formula for oily skin types.
Specifically formulated for blemish-prone skin. The multi-acid complex addresses active breakouts, unclogs pores, and fades post-acne marks. Non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic per the brand.
Balances oily T-zone and drier cheeks simultaneously. The hydrating base (hyaluronic acid, allantoin) prevents dryness in less oily areas while BHA targets congested zones.
The encapsulated BHA delivery and soothing agents (bisabolol, allantoin) make this gentler than most acid serums. Introduce slowly β every other day first β and patch test before regular use.
While hyaluronic acid provides hydration, dry skin types may find acids too stripping without proper barrier support. Use less frequently (2β3x per week) and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Smoothing & Brightness
Most users notice a softer, slightly brighter skin surface after the first few applications. The gel-serum texture leaves skin with a fresh, clean feel. Some may experience mild tingling or initial purging in the first week as the BHA begins clearing congestion below the surface.
80% noticed smoother texturePore Refinement & Fewer Breakouts
Regular use begins to visibly reduce the appearance of pores and decrease the frequency of new breakouts. Skin looks more even, and blackheads may start to loosen. Post-acne redness begins to subside as azelaic acid and niacinamide build up.
72% noticed fewer active breakoutsVisible Texture Improvement & Clarity
Rough, bumpy skin texture noticeably improves. Skin feels consistently smoother and pores appear more refined. Existing blemishes heal faster, and the skin's overall clarity and radiance markedly improve with continued daily use.
78% reported improved overall skin clarityLong-Term Tone Evenness & Blemish Control
Post-acne dark marks and hyperpigmentation visibly fade. Oil production becomes more balanced. Skin maintains a healthy, natural glow with consistent use. Long-term cell turnover benefits contribute to a more youthful skin texture.
68% saw fading of post-acne marksβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Powerful yet gentle β suitable for daily use morning and night
- Encapsulated BHA minimizes irritation vs. traditional formulas
- Multi-acid formula targets texture, pores, breakouts, and dark marks simultaneously
- Hydrating base prevents the typical dryness of acid serums
- Lightweight water-gel texture absorbs fast with no residue
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and uses naturally derived fragrance
- Award-winning formula backed by real clinical claims
- K-beauty inspired sensorial experience with pleasant light scent
β Criticized
- Premium price point: ~$42 for only 30ml feels steep for some budgets
- Spray pump has been reported to malfunction or clog on some bottles
- Contains fragrance β a concern for very sensitive or fragrance-reactive individuals
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to salicylic acid
- Contains ferments (Saccharomyces) that may not suit those with fungal acne
- Some users experience an initial purging phase in weeks 1β2
- 30ml bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily use
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
K-beauty multi-acid serum with AHA, BHA, and PHA alongside niacinamide and tea tree β very similar concept to the Strawberry Smooth. Formula lacks the encapsulated BHA and is more basic in texture, but delivers comparable clarifying results at less than half the price. Widely available at YesStyle and Stylevana.
Straightforward 2% salicylic acid serum at a fraction of the cost. Lacks the multi-acid approach, strawberry extract, and hydrating complex of Glow Recipe, but effectively targets acne and congested pores. Best for those who want pure BHA action without the extras. Fragrance-free formulation.
Minimal, no-frills 2% BHA formula in a squalane base. Very effective for decongesting pores but lacks the multi-acid synergy, AHA component, and skin-soothing ingredients. The anhydrous (water-free) base gives a slightly different texture. Ideal for dedicated BHA users seeking maximum value.
π Comparison with Competitors
π Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth BHA+AHA Serum (This Product)
$42.00 / 30mlPaula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
$34.00 / 118mlDrunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboosβ’ Glycolic Night Serum
$90.00 / 30mlπ¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. The brand confirms shelf life is 12M from first use. Mark the opening date on the bottle to track freshness.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in the shower where temperature fluctuates. Mandelic acid is light-sensitive β keep in original opaque packaging.
30ml opaque glass bottle with a fine mist spray pump. The pump dispenses a controlled, even amount per press. Recyclable packaging per brand claims.
Yes β at 30ml it is under the 100ml liquid carry-on limit for air travel. The spray pump may need to be secured or inverted to prevent accidental dispense during transit.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Strawberry Smooth BHA+AHA Salicylic Acid Serum contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. While topical salicylic acid at low concentrations poses a lower risk than oral salicylates, most dermatologists and OB-GYNs advise avoiding BHA products during pregnancy as a precaution. Glow Recipe themselves confirm on their FAQ page that this product is not recommended for use while pregnant or nursing. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance before using any active-ingredient skincare product during pregnancy.
Use with caution if you have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Saccharomyces Ferment and Lecithin, both of which are ingredients that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne in susceptible individuals. While salicylic acid itself has antifungal properties that could offer some benefit, the presence of these ferment-derived and fatty acid-containing ingredients makes this formula not fully fungal acne-safe. If you're managing active fungal acne, consider a fragrance-free, ferment-free BHA alternative such as Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. Always patch test first.
Yes, with some care. Glow Recipe confirms this serum is compatible with retinol β the encapsulated BHA is gentle enough to pair with retinoids, despite the common misconception that BHA and retinol cannot be layered. For vitamin C, apply vitamin C first and allow it to absorb fully before applying the serum. For other AHA/BHA products (like an exfoliating toner), start using them in alternating routines rather than stacking them in the same step, especially if you are new to acids. The one combination to avoid is benzoyl peroxide β Glow Recipe specifically recommends not using this serum alongside BP, as it may cause excessive irritation or reduce efficacy.
It is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The oil-soluble BHA is specifically designed to penetrate and clear pores that are prone to congestion and breakouts, while the water-gel texture avoids adding any heaviness or shine. Combination skin benefits from the balanced formula β BHA targets the oily T-zone while hyaluronic acid and allantoin prevent dryness in less oily areas. Sensitive skin types can use it but should introduce gradually (every other day). Dry skin types can use it 2β3 times per week with a richer moisturizer to counteract potential dryness.
Most users notice an initial improvement in skin smoothness and brightness within the first week of use. More significant results β such as reduced breakouts, refined pores, and improved skin texture β typically become visible after 2β4 weeks of consistent daily use. Fading of post-acne dark marks and hyperpigmentation generally requires 6β12 weeks of continued use, as this relies on accelerated cell turnover over multiple skin cycles. Note that some users may experience a brief "purging" phase in weeks 1β2, where existing congestion comes to the surface before clearing. This is normal and typically resolves within 2β3 weeks.
Apply it as a serum after cleansing and toning, before your moisturizer. The general rule for acid serums is to apply them to clean, slightly damp skin before heavier products β this ensures maximum contact with skin without interference from heavier emollients. If using other serums (like a niacinamide or peptide serum), apply this acid serum first, allow it to absorb for about 30 seconds, then layer your other serums. Always finish your morning routine with SPF 30+ when using this product. It is gentle enough to use in both AM and PM routines, making it one of the rare acid serums recommended for twice-daily use.
No β it is rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale, which is very low. The formula contains no heavy oils, waxes, or known high-comedogenic ingredients. Glow Recipe formulated it specifically for acne-prone and oily skin, confirming it is non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic. The BHA (salicylic acid) in the formula is actually an anti-comedogenic active β it dissolves the sebum plugs and keratin that form comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). The only ingredients that carry any minor risk are Coco-Caprylate/Caprate and Lecithin, both rated 1β2, which remain well within a non-problematic range for most skin types.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months, as confirmed by Glow Recipe on their website. The 30ml bottle typically lasts approximately 2β3 months with twice-daily use (1β2 pumps per application), meaning most users will use it well before its 12-month PAO. To maximize shelf life and efficacy, store the serum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as mandelic acid can be sensitive to light and heat exposure. Avoid leaving it in a hot car or directly in a sunny bathroom window.
Verdict: The Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth BHA+AHA Salicylic Acid Serum earns its place as one of the most thoughtfully formulated daily acid serums on the market. By combining 2% encapsulated salicylic acid with mandelic acid, azelaic acid, and a hydrating base, it delivers genuine multi-functional results β clearing pores, smoothing texture, fading dark marks, and keeping skin hydrated β without the harshness associated with traditional BHA treatments. The encapsulated delivery system is a genuine differentiator, making this gentle enough for twice-daily use even by those new to acids. The primary caveats are the premium price for a small 30ml bottle, the fragrance inclusion (however naturally derived), and its unsuitability for pregnancy or fungal acne. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types who can invest in a premium daily clarifying serum, this is an exceptional choice that lives up to its award-winning reputation.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
C9-12 Alkane
Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Fragaria Vesca Fruit Extract
Astringent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate
|
|