Targeted Blemish Serum 2% Salicylic Acid
Targeted Blemish Serum 2% Salicylic Acid
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free blemish-fighting serum by Revolution Beauty powered by 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Witch Hazel to unclog pores, reduce blackheads, control excess sebum, and deliver a visibly clearer complexion — affordable enough for daily use, effective enough to compete with premium acne treatments.
2% Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores, dissolving the debris that causes blackheads and breakouts while gently exfoliating the skin surface.
Texture & feel
SENSORY2% Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores, dissolving the debris that causes blackheads and breakouts while gently exfoliating the skin surface.
Witch Hazel Water
Hamamelis Virginiana Water acts as a natural astringent to visibly tighten pores, soothe inflammation, and reduce excess sebum production throughout the day.
Dual Humectant Hydration
Glycerin and Butylene Glycol work together to draw moisture into the skin, ensuring the salicylic acid treatment does not leave skin feeling stripped or dehydrated.
Works as a Makeup Primer
The featherweight, oil-free formula can be applied as a thin layer under foundation and concealer to create a smooth, pore-minimised base while continuing to treat blemishes.
Everyday-Use Formula
Gentle enough for twice-daily application (morning and evening). Dermatologist tested and PETA-certified cruelty-free with a 100% vegan ingredient list.
Accessible Affordability
Delivers a clinically relevant 2% BHA concentration at a fraction of the cost of prestige alternatives, making consistent blemish treatment achievable for every budget.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA). While topical use of low-concentration salicylic acid is generally considered low-risk, most dermatologists and OBGYNs advise pregnant women to avoid it as a precaution, particularly in the first trimester. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 20, a polysorbate ester that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). Not recommended for those managing fungal acne. Also contains Cocamidopropyl Betaine, which may be problematic for some FA-sensitive skin.
The formula is explicitly oil-free and contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy butters. Key ingredients like Glycerin (0), Propanediol (0), and Salicylic Acid are all rated 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. Suitable for congested, acne-prone skin.
Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) such as salicylic acid increase photosensitivity. Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product to prevent UV-induced damage and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
100% free from animal-derived ingredients. PETA-certified cruelty-free. Revolution Beauty does not test on animals at any stage of development, including ingredients, and does not sell in markets requiring mandatory animal testing.
The formula contains Parfum and declared fragrance allergens including Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Geraniol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Hydroxycitronellal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, and Eugenol. Those with fragrance sensitivity or contact dermatitis should patch-test before full-face use.
Contains both Alcohol Denat. and Alcohol (lower on the INCI list), which aid ingredient delivery and contribute to the fast-drying finish. At the concentrations used in this formula, these are not considered primary irritants for most skin types, but very sensitive skin should patch-test first.
Revolution Skincare labels this product as suitable for teenage skin. The 2% salicylic acid concentration is within FDA OTC monograph limits (0.5–2%) for acne treatment, making it appropriate for adolescent blemish-prone skin under adult guidance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 2%Proven
The hero active in this formula — a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into the lipid-rich environment of the pore. It exfoliates inside the follicle, breaking up the keratin plugs responsible for blackheads and comedones, while delivering anti-inflammatory and mild antibacterial effects that calm active breakouts.
- Mechanism: Keratolytic — loosens and dissolves dead skin cells and sebaceous plugs within pores
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, reducing redness and swelling around acne lesions
- Concentration: 2% — the maximum permitted OTC acne treatment concentration (FDA monograph)
- pH Dependency: Most effective at pH 3.0–4.0; works as an exfoliant in this aqueous serum vehicle
Hamamelis Virginiana Water (Witch Hazel) ~5–10%Proven
Witch hazel distillate is a naturally-derived astringent that contains tannins and polyphenols. In skincare, it visibly tightens the appearance of pores, soothes redness, and helps regulate sebum production — making it particularly effective in combination with salicylic acid for oily, acne-prone skin.
- Astringent effect: Tannins temporarily tighten skin and reduce the visible size of enlarged pores
- Anti-inflammatory: Flavonoids and gallic acid reduce skin irritation and redness
- Sebum control: Helps regulate excess oil secretion, keeping skin matte longer
- Position: Listed 4th in the INCI — present at a meaningful functional concentration
Glycerin ~2.6–3.9%Proven
One of the most extensively studied humectants in cosmetic science. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum, preventing the dryness and flaking that can accompany BHA exfoliation. It also has mild film-forming properties that improve skin texture and barrier function.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains water in the upper skin layers
- Barrier support: Assists in lipid biosynthesis and epidermal barrier repair
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — completely non-pore-clogging
Propanediol ~5–10%Proven
A plant-derived (corn sugar) multifunctional ingredient that serves as a solvent, humectant, and penetration enhancer. Propanediol helps solubilise the salicylic acid and other actives, improving their delivery into the skin. It also contributes to the serum's lightweight, fast-absorbing texture.
- Source: Typically derived from renewable corn feedstock (bio-based propanediol)
- Function: Solvent, humectant, and mild penetration enhancer
- Skin feel: Non-greasy, contributes to the serum's silky slip
Polysorbate 20 ~2–5%Promising
A mild non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitan and ethylene oxide. In this formula, it helps solubilise the fragrance compounds and ensures a homogeneous, stable serum texture. It also has a slight cleansing action that helps remove surface impurities.
- Function: Emulsifier, solubiliser, mild surfactant
- Safety: Well-tolerated by most skin types; very low sensitisation potential
Butylene Glycol ~1–3%Proven
A small-molecule diol that functions as a humectant, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent. It improves the spreadability of the formula and enhances the absorption of active ingredients. Often paired with glycerin to provide both surface and deeper-layer hydration.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, texture enhancer
- Penetration: Small molecular size allows it to carry actives deeper into the epidermis
- Comedogenic rating: 1 — essentially non-pore-clogging
24 ingredients
Water (Aqua/Eau), Propanediol, Polysorbate 20, Hamamelis Virginiana Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Alcohol Denat., Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Alcohol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Geraniol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Hydroxycitronellal, Eugenol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before moisturiser. Always follow with SPF 30+ in the morning. Apply in a thin layer — it doubles as a primer under makeup.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and surface impurities. Pat skin dry with a clean towel — leaving skin slightly damp can help with absorption.
Tone (Optional)
Apply your preferred alcohol-free toner if it's part of your routine. Allow it to absorb fully before proceeding to the serum.
Apply the Blemish Serum
Dispense 3–5 drops onto fingertips. Apply directly to blemish-prone areas or spread a thin layer across the entire face. Avoid the eye contour. Do not rinse off. Use morning and evening for best results.
Wait for Absorption
Allow 20–30 seconds for the lightweight serum to fully absorb into the skin before applying the next product. You can use it as a primer — apply foundation or concealer directly on top.
Moisturise & Protect
Follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to seal in hydration and support the skin barrier. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen — BHAs increase photosensitivity.
Build Up Slowly (New Users)
If you are new to salicylic acid or BHAs, start with once daily (evening), then gradually increase to twice daily as your skin acclimates. Discontinue if persistent irritation or dryness occurs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, congested, or blemish-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads or enlarged pores
- You want an affordable, daily-use BHA treatment
- You need a serum that doubles as a makeup primer
- You are new to chemical exfoliants and want to start gently
- You are looking for a vegan and cruelty-free option
- You are a teenager dealing with acne (with adult guidance)
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or severely compromised skin barrier
- You are highly sensitive to fragrance or fragrance allergens
- You need a higher BHA concentration for more stubborn acne
- You are currently using strong retinoids or other AHAs (risk of over-exfoliation)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe ideal match. The oil-free, matte-finish formula controls excess sebum while the 2% salicylic acid and witch hazel combo visibly minimises enlarged pores and keeps breakouts in check.
Works exceptionally well on combination skin. The lightweight texture doesn't over-dry drier areas, while the BHA and astringent witch hazel effectively address the oily T-zone and blemish-prone zones.
Specifically designed for blemish-prone skin. Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve acne-causing debris, while the formula's non-comedogenic (1/5) rating ensures it won't add to the problem.
A good preventative option for normal skin prone to occasional breakouts. May only need once-daily or every-other-day application rather than twice-daily to avoid over-exfoliation.
Usable with caution. The 2% BHA concentration and fragrance allergens (Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, etc.) may cause irritation for very reactive skin. Always patch-test and start with every-other-day use.
Not ideal as a primary serum for dry skin types. The BHA exfoliation and astringent witch hazel may exacerbate dryness. If used, limit to once daily in the evening and follow with a rich moisturiser.
Results timeline
WEEK 6–8Immediate Oil Control & Surface Smoothing
Most users notice a reduction in surface oiliness and a slightly smoother skin texture within the first few applications. The witch hazel delivers an immediate tightening and mattifying effect.
~80% noticedReduced Blackheads & Visible Pore Refinement
The salicylic acid begins dissolving the keratin plugs in pores. Blackheads start to loosen and reduce in appearance. Pores appear visibly smaller and less congested. Some users may experience a brief purging phase with increased breakouts — this is normal and temporary.
~65% noticedFewer Active Breakouts & Clearer Complexion
With consistent use, new blemishes form less frequently. Existing spots heal faster due to the anti-inflammatory and exfoliating action. Skin texture becomes noticeably more even and refined.
~70% noticedSustained Clarity & Long-Term Pore Management
With continued daily use, most users achieve significantly clearer, less congested skin. Pore size appears consistently smaller. The skin's oil production becomes better balanced with regular BHA exfoliation.
~75% noticedRatings by platform
7K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum 2% OTC salicylic acid concentration at a budget price point
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs instantly without residue
- Works as a makeup primer — visible pore minimising effect
- Dual action: treats active blemishes and prevents new ones
- Witch hazel adds immediate mattifying and soothing benefits
- Vegan, PETA-certified cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested
- Widely available: Amazon, Walmart, ASOS, LookFantastic, Beauty Bay
- Results visible within 1–2 weeks for most users
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) and multiple declared allergens — not ideal for very sensitive skin
- Not safe for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20
- Small 30ml size depletes quickly with twice-daily full-face application
- Contains both Alcohol Denat. and Alcohol — may be drying for some skin types
- Not pregnancy-safe (salicylic acid caution)
- Some users experience a brief purging phase in the first 1–2 weeks
- BHA increases sun sensitivity — requires daily SPF commitment
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar active concentration (2% SA) in a simple, fragrance-free aqueous base. Key differences: The Ordinary version is completely fragrance-free (better for sensitive skin) but lacks Witch Hazel and has a more basic texture. Revolution's version has better texture and the primer benefit.
Different active (retinol + niacinamide + encapsulated SA), but targets similar concerns of acne, uneven texture, and enlarged pores. CeraVe includes ceramides for barrier support. Not a direct dupe — better for anti-ageing + acne combination concerns. Fragrance-free.
Widely regarded as the gold standard BHA exfoliant with the same 2% salicylic acid, optimised low pH, fragrance-free, and with green tea antioxidants. Significantly more expensive but often considered the reference product Revolution Beauty is benchmarked against. Revolution offers ~90% of the efficacy at ~25% of the price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging. Salicylic acid is relatively stable but can degrade with prolonged exposure to heat and air.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms if possible — a bedroom shelf or cabinet is ideal. Keep away from extreme heat, which can degrade the active salicylic acid over time.
Comes in a small glass or plastic dropper-style bottle (30 ml) with a screw cap. The slim, minimalist bottle dispenses product easily for targeted spot application or full-face spreading.
Yes — 30 ml is well under the 100 ml airline carry-on liquid limit. Compact and lightweight for travel. Ensure the cap is tightly closed to prevent leakage in luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis serum is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to its 2% Salicylic Acid content. While small amounts of topical salicylic acid are unlikely to cause harm, most dermatologists and OBGYNs advise pregnant women to avoid BHA exfoliants as a precautionary measure — particularly in the first trimester. During breastfeeding, the risk is considered very low for topical use, but the conservative advice is still to avoid it. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any active-ingredient skincare products during pregnancy or while nursing.
No — this serum is not safe for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis / Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Polysorbate 20, a polysorbate ester that is a known feedstock for Malassezia yeast, and could potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne breakouts. If you have confirmed or suspected fungal acne, look for fungal-acne safe alternatives such as The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution or Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid, which are free from polysorbates, fatty acids, and other Malassezia-feeding ingredients.
Use with caution when combining with other active ingredients. With Retinol: avoid using both in the same routine step — use retinol at night and this serum in the morning, or alternate evenings to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. With Vitamin C: these can be used in the same routine but apply vitamin C first (lower pH), allow it to absorb, then apply the serum. With other AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid): avoid combining in the same routine — this can lead to significant over-exfoliation, compromised skin barrier, and irritation. Use AHAs on alternate nights. With other BHAs: do not combine — there is no benefit to layering multiple BHAs and significant irritation risk.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The oil-free formula controls excess sebum, the 2% salicylic acid targets clogged pores and blackheads, and the witch hazel acts as an astringent to visibly minimise pores. It is rated Excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Those with normal skin can use it with good results for preventative blemish management. Dry or very sensitive skin types should approach with caution, as the BHA and astringent witch hazel may increase dryness and sensitivity.
Most users notice initial improvements in oiliness and skin texture within the first 3–5 days. Visible reduction in blackheads and pore appearance typically becomes apparent after 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. A meaningful reduction in active breakouts is usually seen after 3–4 weeks. Optimal, sustained results are typically achieved around the 6–8 week mark with daily use. Note: some users experience a brief "purging" phase in the first 1–2 weeks where breakouts may temporarily increase as the BHA accelerates skin cell turnover and expels congestion — this is normal and should resolve on its own.
Apply this serum as the third step in your routine: after cleansing (Step 1) and toning (Step 2), but before moisturiser (Step 4) and SPF (Step 5 in AM). The official instructions from Revolution Beauty state: "Apply to face morning and evening after cleansing and toning, before moisturising." In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, as salicylic acid (a BHA) increases your skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. A unique feature of this serum is that it can also be worn as a thin layer under makeup and foundation, doubling as a pore-minimising primer.
No — this serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it suitable for acne-prone and congested skin. The formula is explicitly oil-free and contains no pore-clogging oils, heavy silicones, or fatty acids. The key ingredients — Salicylic Acid (0), Glycerin (0), Propanediol (0), Witch Hazel (0), and Butylene Glycol (1) — are all rated 0–1 on the comedogenic scale. In fact, salicylic acid is actively anti-comedogenic, helping to dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that clog pores in the first place.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months — look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging with the number "12M." With twice-daily full-face application, the 30 ml bottle will typically last approximately 4–6 weeks. If using only for spot treatment on blemishes, the bottle can last considerably longer — up to 2–3 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve the stability of the salicylic acid active ingredient throughout its shelf life. A 65ml supersize version is also available for better long-term value.
Verdict: The Revolution Beauty Targeted Blemish Serum 2% Salicylic Acid delivers a genuinely effective BHA treatment at an exceptionally accessible price point. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin, it punches well above its weight — providing a maximum-strength 2% salicylic acid concentration, paired with pore-tightening witch hazel and skin-hydrating glycerin, in a featherlight formula that doubles as a makeup primer. The main caveats are the presence of fragrance allergens (making it unsuitable for very sensitive or reactive skin), the Polysorbate 20 content (ruling it out for fungal acne), and the pregnancy safety consideration. For everyone else with blemish concerns and a modest budget, this is one of the best-value BHA serums available anywhere — a smart buy whether you are new to chemical exfoliants or simply looking for a budget-friendly addition to a targeted blemish-fighting routine.
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
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
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