The Microdelivery Exfoliating Facial Wash
The Microdelivery Exfoliating Facial Wash
Product Description
Product overview
Philosophy's cult-favourite micro-massage exfoliating treatment wash combines fine-grain desert earth (diatomaceous earth) with a gentle amino acid-derived cleansing system to resurface skin, scrub away dead cells and build-up, and leave the complexion smoother, softer, and more radiant — in just 30 seconds daily. Enriched with Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside), Vitamin E (Tocopherol & Tocotrienols), borage seed oil, and panthenol, it cleanses and nourishes simultaneously. Sulfate-free, paraben-free, and awarded the 2023 SELF Healthy Beauty Award for Best Exfoliating Cleanser (Physical Exfoliant).
Diatomaceous Earth Micro-Exfoliation
Fine-grain desert earth (Solum Diatomeae) acts as a gentle physical exfoliant, polishing away dead skin cells, dullness, and surface debris without micro-tears typical of harsh scrubs.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDiatomaceous Earth Micro-Exfoliation
Fine-grain desert earth (Solum Diatomeae) acts as a gentle physical exfoliant, polishing away dead skin cells, dullness, and surface debris without micro-tears typical of harsh scrubs.
Amino Acid Cleansing System
Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Decyl Glucoside, and Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate form a sulfate-free, skin-compatible lather that respects the skin barrier while deeply cleansing.
Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside)
A stable, non-irritating derivative of Vitamin C that brightens skin tone, supports collagen synthesis, and helps fade the appearance of post-blemish marks over time.
Multi-Vitamin Antioxidant Complex
Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Tocotrienols, and Borage Seed Oil work together as a powerful antioxidant blend, protecting skin from oxidative stress while maintaining moisture levels.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
Panthenol draws moisture into the skin and strengthens the barrier, helping to counteract any dryness that physical exfoliation can cause, leaving skin feeling hydrated after rinsing.
Award-Winning 30-Second Mini-Peel
Winner of the 2023 SELF Healthy Beauty Award. A self-assessment study with 50 participants found 98% said it provides gentle exfoliation and 96% said skin felt smooth and soft after one week.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or high-risk chemical sunscreens. The Vitamin C form used (Ascorbyl Glucoside) is considered safe during pregnancy. Consult your physician with any concerns.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, which can feed Malassezia yeast. Those prone to fungal acne should use with caution or seek an alternative cleanser.
The formula is lightweight and rinse-off. Diatomaceous earth does not clog pores; Borage Seed Oil has a comedogenic rating of 1 and Sunflower Oil rates 0–2. Overall risk of pore-clogging is minimal.
Contains Methylisothiazolinone (MI) and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI), preservatives known to cause sensitization in some individuals. These are permitted in rinse-off products; limit contact time and patch-test first.
Formulated without SLS or SLES. The amino acid and glucoside-based cleansers are gentle on the skin's natural moisture barrier, making this suitable for daily use without stripping.
Free of parabens, gluten, lanolin, and nickel — verified by SkinSAFE to be 82% Top Allergen Free, making it suitable for many people with common skin sensitivities.
Ascorbyl Glucoside in the formula means this cleanser is safe to use before applying an additional Vitamin C serum. Use a stable L-Ascorbic Acid serum at pH 2.5–3.5 for best results post-cleanse.
Limonene is derived from Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract and is a known potential allergen. Those with citrus sensitivities should patch test. It can also oxidize and become irritating over time.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSolum Diatomeae (Diatomaceous Earth) ~15–25%Proven
Fine-grain desert earth sourced from fossilized algae. These microscopic silica particles provide gentle mechanical exfoliation, polishing the skin surface to remove dead skin cells, build-up, and roughness without causing micro-tears.
- Function: Physical exfoliant, skin polisher
- Evidence: Clinically established as a safe, biodegradable micro-exfoliant — unlike plastic microbeads (which are banned in many countries)
- Benefit: Resurfaces dull skin, unclogs pores, improves texture
Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids ~5–10%Proven
A mild, skin-identical surfactant derived from coconut fatty acids and apple amino acids. It cleanses effectively while maintaining the skin's natural acid mantle, making it far gentler than traditional sulfate-based cleansers.
- Function: Primary amino acid surfactant / cleanser
- pH compatibility: Works at physiological pH (~5.5), preserving the skin barrier
- Benefit: Deep cleansing without stripping, suitable for sensitive skin
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
One of the most well-studied humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, keeping skin plump and hydrated even after a rinse-off cleanser.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Evidence: Hundreds of peer-reviewed studies confirm hydration efficacy
- Benefit: Prevents post-cleanse tightness and dryness
Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C) ~0.5–2%Proven
A stable, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative formed by bonding L-ascorbic acid to glucose. Unlike pure Vitamin C, it does not oxidize rapidly, making it ideal for a wash-off formula. Once absorbed, enzymes convert it to active ascorbic acid.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin brightener, collagen stimulator
- Stability: Significantly more stable than L-Ascorbic Acid in water-based formulas
- Benefit: Helps even skin tone, fades dark spots, provides antioxidant protection
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5–1%Proven
A provitamin that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. Panthenol is a dual-action ingredient: it acts as a humectant to draw in moisture and as an emollient to smooth and soften the skin surface.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning, barrier repair
- Evidence: Shown to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and support wound healing
- Benefit: Helps counterbalance the drying effect of exfoliation, keeps skin supple
Tocopherol + Tocotrienols (Vitamin E Complex) ~0.2–0.5%Proven
A full-spectrum Vitamin E complex. Tocopherol is the most common form; Tocotrienols are the more potent, lesser-used members of the Vitamin E family with superior antioxidant activity and better skin penetration.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin protectant
- Synergy: Works synergistically with Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside) to neutralize free radicals more effectively
- Benefit: Shields skin from environmental oxidative damage, soothes inflammation
Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Oil ~0.1–0.3%Promising
Borage oil has the highest known plant-based content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid essential for maintaining the skin's lipid barrier. It is particularly beneficial for dry, sensitized, or compromised skin.
- Function: Emollient, barrier-repairing fatty acid source
- Key component: ~20–26% GLA (gamma-linolenic acid)
- Comedogenic rating: 1/5 — very low risk
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Extract ~0.1–0.5%Promising
Derived from sweet orange peel, this extract provides a natural source of bioflavonoids and antioxidants. It contributes to the mild citrus scent of the formula and contains trace amounts of Limonene.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin brightening, fragrance
- Note: Contains Limonene as a natural component — a potential allergen for citrus-sensitive individuals
32 ingredients
Water, Solum Diatomeae, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Glycerin, Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer, Acrylates Copolymer, Decyl Glucoside, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Phenoxyethanol, Lauryl Glucoside, Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate, Polysorbate 20, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract, Limonene, Decylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Panthenol, Tetrasodium EDTA, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Tocotrienols, Triolein, Trilinolein, Magnesium Nitrate, Methylisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Magnesium Chloride
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 — your first and only cleanser. Apply to a slightly damp face, massage for 30–60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with toner, treatments, and moisturizer. Safe to use AM or PM daily.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Avoid using hot water as it can compromise the skin barrier. The product works best on a slightly damp — not soaking wet — face.
Apply a Generous Amount
Pump or squeeze a dime-to-quarter-sized amount of the wash into your palm or directly onto your fingertips. The gel will feel smooth with subtle micro-texture from the diatomaceous earth particles.
Massage for 30–60 Seconds
Work the product in gentle circular motions across your face — cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. The micro-massage action is what activates the physical exfoliation. Do not scrub aggressively; let the fine particles do the work.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is completely removed. Pat dry gently with a clean towel. Your skin should feel smooth, clean, and refreshed — not tight or dry.
Continue Your Routine
Follow immediately with toner, treatments (retinol, niacinamide, peptides), and moisturizer. In the AM, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+, especially important after exfoliation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, rough, or uneven-textured skin
- You want a gentle daily exfoliating cleanser in one step
- You're oily, combination, or normal skin type
- You want a sulfate-free, paraben-free formula
- You prefer physical over chemical exfoliation
- You're looking for a 30-second skin-resurfacing treatment
- You want Vitamin C benefits in your cleansing step
Consider alternatives if:
- You're prone to fungal acne (Malassezia-related breakouts)
- Your skin is very reactive or highly sensitized to preservatives
- You have active eczema, rosacea flares, or open wounds
- You're sensitive to citrus or Limonene
- You prefer fragrance-completely-free formulas
- You're looking for a chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA only)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe diatomaceous earth exfoliation helps decongest pores and reduce excess sebum build-up, while the amino acid surfactants cleanse deeply without stripping, preventing rebound oiliness.
Glycerin and Panthenol help maintain hydration post-wash. Dry skin types should follow with a rich moisturizer immediately and may prefer every-other-day use to avoid over-exfoliating.
Ideal for combination skin — exfoliates and decongests the oily T-zone while the gentle amino acid base keeps drier cheek areas comfortable and non-stripped.
Well-suited as an everyday cleanser. Normal skin can benefit from the daily exfoliation, brightening Vitamin C, and antioxidant protection without any concern about over-stripping.
The MI/MCI preservatives and Limonene may cause reactions in highly reactive skin. Patch test before use; start with 2–3 times per week. Those with eczema or rosacea should consult a dermatologist first.
Low comedogenic rating and pore-clearing exfoliation make it helpful for acne-prone skin. However, it is not fungal acne safe due to Polysorbate 20 and Sunflower Oil. Suitable for hormonal or bacterial acne.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Smoothness & Softness
After the very first use, most users notice skin feels noticeably smoother and softer due to the physical exfoliation of diatomaceous earth removing surface dead cells and impurities.
96% noticed softer skin immediatelyImproved Clarity & Glow
Regular use begins to reveal a more luminous, even-toned complexion. Pores appear cleaner and less congested. Skin tone looks more unified. Post-acne marks may start to lighten thanks to Ascorbyl Glucoside.
98% reported gentle exfoliation within one weekVisibly Reduced Rough Texture
Rough patches, flakiness, and uneven skin texture show significant improvement. Makeup application becomes smoother. The antioxidant complex (Vitamins C and E) begins to show cumulative protective and brightening effects.
94% said it scrubs away build-up and dry skinEven Skin Tone & Refined Pores
Sustained daily exfoliation with antioxidant support leads to a notably even complexion, minimized appearance of pores, and a healthy, consistent glow. Fine lines may appear softer due to improved surface renewal.
Long-term users report lasting texture improvementRatings by platform
7K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle enough for daily use — won't over-exfoliate
- Leaves skin noticeably smoother and softer after first use
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, gluten-free formulation
- Biodegradable diatomaceous earth exfoliant (no plastic microbeads)
- Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside) helps with brightening over time
- 2023 SELF Healthy Beauty Award Winner
- Available in multiple sizes including a travel-friendly 3 oz
- Excellent value in the 16 oz and 32 oz sizes
- Works for all skin types including men's skin
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (Polysorbate 20 + Sunflower Oil)
- Contains MI/MCI preservatives — can irritate sensitive skin
- Limonene may cause reactions in citrus-sensitive users
- Mild but detectable scent — not fully fragrance-free
- 8 oz price (~$32–44) can feel steep compared to drugstore alternatives
- Not cruelty-free certified (philosophy is not Leaping Bunny certified)
- Physical exfoliation alone does not replace chemical exfoliants for deep resurfacing
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also uses rice-based physical exfoliation with a sulfate-free base. Includes papain enzyme for chemical exfoliation boost. More complex formulation but significantly pricier per ounce. Great for those who want physical + enzymatic dual exfoliation.
Uses salicylic acid (BHA) instead of physical exfoliation, making it more effective for blackheads and oily/acne-prone skin. Contains ceramides for barrier repair. Fragrance-free and significantly cheaper — but not suitable during pregnancy (salicylic acid requires caution).
A leave-on BHA exfoliant rather than a rinse-off scrub. Targets same concerns (clogged pores, texture, dullness) but via chemical exfoliation. Fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and cult-favourite. Better for targeting blackheads and deeply congested pores.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Resurfacing Liquid
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The PAO symbol (open jar icon) on the packaging will show "12M." Use within this period for best efficacy of the Vitamin C and Vitamin E antioxidants.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in a steamy shower environment long-term as heat and humidity can degrade the Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C derivative) faster.
Pump bottle (8 oz, 16 oz, 32 oz) or squeeze tube (3 oz travel size). The pump format limits air exposure and contamination, helping preserve the formula's stability and hygiene.
Yes — the 3 oz travel size is under the 100ml limit for carry-on luggage. The 8 oz pump bottle exceeds carry-on limits but is ideal for checked baggage or home use.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. The Vitamin C form used is Ascorbyl Glucoside, a stable and safe derivative. The formula is a rinse-off product, minimizing systemic absorption. However, always consult your physician or dermatologist before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
No — this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains two ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast: Polysorbate 20 (an esters-based emulsifier) and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil. If you are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), we recommend choosing an alternative cleanser that is free of these ingredients. Look for cleansers with a surfactant-only base without oils or polysorbates.
Yes, with some guidance. This is a rinse-off cleanser, so ingredient interactions are minimal. After rinsing, you can use Vitamin C serums, niacinamide, peptides, or moisturizers. If using a prescription retinoid, avoid over-exfoliating — use this cleanser every other day rather than daily. If you use a leave-on AHA or BHA exfoliant (such as glycolic acid toner or salicylic acid serum), limit this wash to 2–3 times per week to avoid cumulative over-exfoliation, which can compromise the skin barrier.
It is best suited for normal, oily, and combination skin types, and is excellent for anyone with dull, rough, or uneven-textured skin. Dry skin types can use it daily if followed by a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to the MI/MCI preservatives and Limonene. It is not recommended for those with active eczema, rosacea flares, or fungal acne.
Many users notice smoother, softer skin after the very first use. In a brand-conducted self-assessment study of 50 women, 96% noticed skin felt smooth and soft and 98% experienced gentle exfoliation within one week. More significant improvements — like a more even skin tone, reduced post-blemish marks (from Ascorbyl Glucoside/Vitamin C), and refined texture — typically develop after 3–6 weeks of consistent daily use.
This product goes in Step 1 of your routine — as your face wash / cleanser. Apply to a slightly damp face, massage for 30–60 seconds, and rinse thoroughly. After rinsing, continue with: toner → serums (Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, treatments) → eye cream → moisturizer → SPF (in the AM). It can be used in either your morning or evening routine, or both. If using other exfoliants in your routine, adjust frequency to avoid over-exfoliating.
No — this product has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. It is a rinse-off formula, which significantly reduces pore-clogging risk. The key oils (Borage Seed Oil at rating 1 and Sunflower Seed Oil at 0–2) are non-comedogenic. Furthermore, the diatomaceous earth actively helps to physically clear pore build-up. The formula is not designed to leave a residue on skin, further minimizing any risk of clogged pores.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The formula contains Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, and MI/MCI as preservatives to maintain stability. To maximize shelf life, store the product in a cool, dry place away from steam and direct sunlight. If you use the 8 oz bottle daily, it typically lasts approximately 3–4 months, making the 16 oz or 32 oz sizes more economical for regular users.
Verdict: Philosophy's The Microdelivery Exfoliating Facial Wash earns its place as a genuine cult classic. The combination of biodegradable diatomaceous earth micro-exfoliation, a sulfate-free amino acid cleansing system, and a thoughtful antioxidant complex (Vitamins C and E, Panthenol, Borage Oil) delivers real, noticeable results in just 30 seconds daily. The 2023 SELF Award win and thousands of 4.5+ star reviews across major platforms confirm what users have known for years: this cleanser genuinely smooths and brightens. The caveats are real — it's not fungal acne safe, the MI/MCI preservatives may irritate sensitive skin, and the price per ounce is notable in the 8 oz size (the 32 oz format is significantly better value). For those who can tolerate the formula, however, it remains one of the most effective, gentle, daily-use physical exfoliating cleansers available at this price point.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
Solum Diatomeae
Abrasive, Absorbent, Opacifying, Anticaking Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer
Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
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