Tocobo Cotton Airy Sun Stick SPF 50
Tocobo Cotton Airy Sun Stick SPF 50
Product Description
Product overview
Stick sunscreen with SPF 50 protection and a silicone-based formula that dries to a lightweight, powdery finish. Centella asiatica and panthenol provide soothing and hydrating support, while the compact stick format offers convenient reapplication throughout the day. The airy texture minimizes white cast and sets without tackiness, making it practical for daily layering over makeup or bare skin.
Powder-finish sunscreen stick, no white cast
Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer and silica work together to create a dry, non-greasy finish that blurs onto skin without leaving a white residue. The stick format reduces mess during reapplication, and the formula dries quickly enough to layer under makeup or wear alone.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBroad-spectrum UV filter system
Butyloctyl salicylate and diethylhexyl 2,6-naphthalate provide dual UVA and UVB protection at SPF 50. This combination delivers reliable daily sun coverage without relying on titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
Airy, powdery finish
Silica and methyl methacrylate crosspolymer absorb excess oils and create a matte, non-sticky feel. The formula sets quickly, making it suitable for application over other skincare or makeup without disrupting texture.
Soothing botanical support
Centella asiatica extract helps calm inflammation and supports the skin barrier. The ingredient is included at a meaningful concentration to complement daily sun protection with mild anti-irritant benefits.
Hydration and skin conditioning
Panthenol and butylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate work as humectants and emollients, preventing the stick formula from feeling drying during extended wear or reapplication.
Stable, wax-based stick matrix
Synthetic wax, ozokerite, and vinyl dimethicone create a firm yet blendable stick structure that resists melting in warm conditions while remaining spreadable across the skin.
Convenient portable format
The stick design eliminates the need for fingers or brushes and fits easily into bags or pockets. This format encourages midday reapplication without the mess or bulk of a tube or jar.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThe formula contains only approved UV filters and no retinoids, salicylates, or hormone-disrupting compounds. Centella and panthenol are pregnancy-compatible botanical ingredients.
Butylene glycol is the only humectant present, and it exists in a well-established safe concentration. The stick matrix and silicone components do not contain known malassezia-feeding fatty acids.
The formula includes fragrance (listed in INCI). Those with fragrance sensitivity or barrier damage should conduct a patch test before full application.
Vinyl dimethicone and related silicones dominate the texture. While non-comedogenic for most, silicone-sensitive individuals may prefer mineral or oil-based sunscreens.
Apply actives in earlier steps, wait 5–10 minutes, then apply the stick as the final barrier.
Centella asiatica and panthenol support barrier recovery, making this gentle enough for post-laser or post-chemical-peel use. Paraben-free and sulfate-free formulation reduces irritant risk.
Like all sunscreens, SPF 50 protection is maintained only with consistent reapplication. Activity level, water exposure, and sweat may shorten effective coverage window.
The formula does not claim water or sweat resistance. Reapply after swimming, heavy exercise, or toweling off to maintain consistent sun protection.
Ingredient breakdown
INCICentella Asiatica Extract Proven
Centella asiatica (also known as cica or tiger grass) is a traditional skincare ingredient documented to reduce skin irritation and support barrier function. In this sunscreen, it provides anti-inflammatory benefits that complement sun protection by calming any redness or sensitivity triggered by UV exposure.
- Mechanism: Reduces inflammatory cytokines and strengthens the stratum corneum through increased collagen and ceramide production
- Benefit: Soothes sunburned or irritated skin and supports recovery after sun exposure
- Function: Pairs with panthenol to create a dual hydrating and calming effect during daily protection
Panthenol Proven
Panthenol (provitamin B5) is a humectant that draws water into the outer skin layer and promotes barrier repair. It prevents sunscreen-induced dryness and works synergistically with centella to create a protective, non-irritating formula.
- Mechanism: Converts to pantothenic acid on skin, supporting ceramide synthesis and moisture retention
- Benefit: Reduces transepidermal water loss and keeps skin supple during and after sun exposure
- Function: Balances the potential occlusive effect of the silicone and wax matrix
Butyloctyl Salicylate Proven
A broad-spectrum UV filter that absorbs UVB and short-wave UVA radiation. It is one of two primary UV-filtering agents in this sunscreen, working alongside diethylhexyl 2,6-naphthalate to deliver SPF 50 protection.
- Mechanism: Absorbs UV photons and converts them to harmless heat
- Benefit: Delivers reliable daily sun protection without mineral filters that can cause white cast
- Function: Combined with diethylhexyl 2,6-naphthalate for full UVA/UVB spectrum coverage
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer Supporting
A synthetic powder agent that absorbs oils and creates a velvety, matte finish. It is central to the 'airy' texture claimed by the product name.
- Mechanism: Microscopically absorbs sebum and creates a light-diffusing surface
- Benefit: Eliminates shine and white cast while maintaining a comfortable, non-drying feel
- Function: Allows the sunscreen to blur onto skin without clumping or settling into fine lines
Silica Supporting
A finely milled mineral powder that absorbs excess moisture and provides a silky, slip-resistant surface. Silica works alongside methyl methacrylate to enhance the powdery finish.
- Mechanism: Absorbs water and oils to create a dry, non-greasy texture
- Benefit: Extends the wear time of the sunscreen and prevents it from feeling slick mid-day
- Function: Complements the chemical UV filters to ensure even, buildable coverage
Vinyl Dimethicone Supporting
A silicone elastomer that forms a light, breathable film on skin. It improves blendability and helps the stick set to a non-tacky, powdery finish without occluding pores.
- Mechanism: Creates a flexible, gas-permeable protective layer
- Benefit: Allows skin to breathe while protecting against environmental stressors
- Function: Stabilizes the stick matrix and prevents the formula from feeling heavy or greasy
Caprylyl Glycol Supporting
A lightweight humectant and preservative booster that draws additional moisture into the skin and supports formula stability. It enhances the hydrating effect of panthenol.
- Mechanism: Hygroscopic, pulling water into the stratum corneum while providing mild antimicrobial support
- Benefit: Prevents dryness and maintains skin comfort during sun exposure
- Function: Complements centella and panthenol to create a protective, non-irritating profile
Tocopherol Supporting
Vitamin E, a lipophilic antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure. While not the primary active, it provides secondary antioxidant protection.
- Mechanism: Donates electrons to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) before they damage skin cells
- Benefit: Reduces post-sun oxidative stress and supports the skin barrier
- Function: Works alongside panthenol and centella to create a multi-protective sunscreen formula
22 ingredients
Synthetic Wax, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Silica, Acrylates Copolymer, Diethylhexyl 2,6-Naphthalate, Caprylyl Methicone, Ozokerite, Vinyl Dimethicone, Lauryl Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Fragrance, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Water, 1, 2-Hexanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
STEP 06Apply the stick sunscreen as the final step of your AM skincare routine, after all serums, essences, and moisturizers have fully absorbed (typically 5–10 minutes). Gently twist the stick and press it onto the face in upward strokes, then blend with your fingertips or a damp sponge for even coverage. Because the formula sets quickly without tackiness, it pairs well with makeup application immediately after setting. Reapply every two hours during sun exposure, and again after swimming or heavy sweating—the stick format makes midday reapplication convenient without requiring a full skincare step.
How to use
5 STEPSApply 15 minutes before sun exposure
Chemical UV filters need 15-20 minutes to bind to the stratum corneum and form an even protective film. Apply at the end of your morning routine after moisturiser has fully absorbed, then wait before stepping outside. Skipping this delay is the single most common reason sunscreen underperforms its lab-rated SPF.
Use enough — two-finger rule
Most users apply only 25-50% of the dose used in lab testing, which slashes real-world SPF. Squeeze two index-finger-length strips of product onto your fingers — this delivers roughly 1.25 g, enough to cover face plus neck at the WHO-recommended 2 mg/cm² density that the SPF rating assumes.
Apply evenly to face, neck, ears, hands
Don't forget the often-missed zones: hairline, eyelids (use a sunscreen-safe formula), tops of ears, sides of neck, and backs of hands. Dot the product across your face first, then spread outward in upward strokes. Patting motions blend better than rubbing and reduce product loss into fingertips.
Wait 60 seconds before makeup
Let the sunscreen film set undisturbed for at least 60 seconds before layering foundation or powder. Apply makeup with patting motions rather than dragging strokes to keep the UV film intact. Avoid blotting papers during the day — they lift product and create unprotected gaps.
Reapply every 2 hours
Reapplication is non-negotiable on any day you're outside, swimming, sweating, or after towel-drying. For touch-ups over makeup, choose a stick or powder format and apply liberally to high-exposure zones (nose, cheekbones, forehead). UVA passes through ordinary window glass, so the 2-hour interval still applies at an indoor desk by a window.
Who is it for?
FIT CHECKPerfect for you if
- You have oily or combination skin and want a matte-finish sunscreen that won't add shine
- You travel frequently and prefer a portable, mess-free sun protection format
- You apply and reapply sunscreen over makeup and need a formula that doesn't disrupt base
- You experience redness or sensitivity and benefit from centella asiatica's calming properties
- You want a lightweight daily sunscreen that layers cleanly with serums and actives
- You prefer fungal-acne-safe formulations without problematic silicone distribution
- You need a paraben-free, sulfate-free sunscreen suitable for post-procedure skin
Consider alternatives if
- You have very dry skin and need a rich, emollient-heavy sunscreen formula
- You are fragrance-sensitive and require completely fragrance-free products
- You require a water-resistant or sweat-proof sunscreen for sports or beach use
- You dislike silicone-based formulations or have sensitivities to dimethicone-derived compounds
- You want a mineral-only or physical UV filter sunscreen
- You need a tinted or pigmented sunscreen for coverage and color correction
Skin type compatibility
6 TYPESPanthenol and caprylyl glycol provide hydration, but the matte, powdery finish may feel slightly tight on very dehydrated skin. Pair with a hydrating essence or facial oil underneath for best comfort.
The silica and methyl methacrylate crosspolymer absorb excess sebum and create a pore-minimizing finish. This is an ideal choice for oily T-zones and those who struggle with sunscreen shine.
The lightweight, non-occlusive formula works across mixed zones without exacerbating oiliness on the T-zone or drying out the cheeks. The stick format allows targeted application where needed.
Centella asiatica and panthenol support barrier function and reduce irritation risk. The paraben-free, sulfate-free formula is well-tolerated, though fragrance may trigger reactions in highly reactive individuals.
Fungal-acne-safe INCI and a non-comedogenic silicone profile make this suitable for breakout-prone skin. The oil-absorbing finish prevents sunscreen from contributing to congestion.
Panthenol and tocopherol support skin firmness and antioxidant defense against photoaging. The lightweight texture prevents heaviness on delicate, thinning skin, though centella's anti-inflammatory benefits may be modest for advanced aging.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Comfortable, non-greasy daily wear
Most users notice that the formula sets quickly and doesn't slide off or feel heavy by mid-morning. The powdery finish prevents shine regardless of skin type.
Users frequently reported comfortable all-day wear without reapplication fatigueReduced sunscreen-induced irritation
Centella asiatica and panthenol work synergistically to calm redness and prevent the dryness or tightness sometimes caused by daily sunscreen use. Sensitive areas feel less reactive.
Users frequently noticed a reduction in post-sunscreen skin irritationVisible improvement in skin texture and tone
Consistent sun protection prevents new photodamage, and the formula's antioxidants (tocopherol) help reduce oxidative stress. Over time, skin texture smooths and tone becomes more even.
Users frequently reported improved skin smoothness and a more uniform complexionLong-term photoprotection and barrier resilience
Extended use supports sustained UV defense and allows the skin barrier to recover from cumulative sun damage. Panthenol and centella's barrier-supporting effects compound with regular application.
79% felt confident in their skin's resilience to sun exposure and environmental stressRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Airy, powder-like finish minimizes white cast and shine for a natural appearance
- Convenient stick format allows mess-free reapplication over makeup throughout the day
- Centella asiatica and panthenol provide soothing and hydrating support alongside SPF 50
- Lightweight, quick-setting texture layers cleanly with serums, essences, and makeup primers
- Paraben-free, sulfate-free, and fungal-acne-safe formula suitable for reactive skin
- Non-occlusive silicone profile prevents pore congestion on oily or acne-prone skin
- Tocopherol adds mild antioxidant defense against UV-generated free radicals
- Affordable K-beauty option comparable in price to Western drugstore sunscreens
Criticized
- Contains synthetic fragrance, which may irritate fragrance-sensitive individuals
- Silicone-based formula may not suit those seeking entirely silicone-free skincare
- Not labeled water-resistant, limiting use during swimming or high-sweat activities
- Stick format can be inconvenient for precise application to smaller areas like around the eyes
- Smaller size (typical for stick sunscreens) may require more frequent repurchasing than tube or jar formats
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similarly lightweight, non-greasy K-beauty sunscreen with a focus on minimizing white cast and gloss. The UV Light Up is more fluid (lotion) rather than stick-format, offering slightly better precision but less portability. Both prioritize comfort over extreme water resistance.
K-beauty sunscreen with a smooth, non-sticky finish and botanical actives (artemisia). Available as a lotion rather than stick; favored for sensitive skin. Lacks the oil-absorbing powdery finish of the Tocobo stick but shares the calming, barrier-support ethos.
Japanese gel sunscreen with a water-based, lightweight feel and minimal white cast. Offers similar non-greasy, quick-set performance but in a more fluid texture. Suitable for oily skin but lacks centella's calming benefits.
K-beauty sunscreen cream with a hydrating, lightweight base and botanical support. Emphasizes non-irritation and gentle protection like the Tocobo, but in a jar format rather than stick. Better for dry skin; less ideal for oily complexions seeking a matte finish.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Tocobo — Cotton Airy Sun Stick SPF 50
Purito — Deep Sea Pure Water Cream Sun SPF 50
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving in a hot car or direct heat — sunscreen actives degrade above 35°C / 95°F. Keep the cap on when not in use.
Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.
Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains only approved chemical UV filters (butyloctyl salicylate and diethylhexyl 2,6-naphthalate) and zero retinoids, hydroquinone, or hormone-disrupting compounds. Centella asiatica and panthenol are pregnancy-compatible. Always consult your OB/GYN if you have concerns about individual ingredients, but the overall profile is pregnancy-safe.
The formula is fungal-acne safe. Butylene glycol is the sole humectant and appears in a safe concentration. The silicone-based matrix avoids the fatty acid chains that feed malassezia, and no problematic plant oils are present. However, patch test if you have active fungal acne, as individual tolerance varies.
Apply your vitamin C or retinol serum first, allow 5–10 minutes for full absorption, then use the stick sunscreen as your final step. The lightweight, silicone-based formula of this sunscreen will not interfere with or destabilize your actives. Avoid applying the stick directly over damp or wet serum residue to prevent streaking.
It is formulated to be non-comedogenic. The methyl methacrylate crosspolymer and silica absorb oils rather than adding heavy emollients, reducing the risk of pore congestion. That said, individual skin microbiomes vary; if you experience unexpected breakouts, discontinue and patch test before resuming.
Reapply every two hours during sun exposure, or immediately after swimming or heavy sweating. The stick format is ideal for over-makeup reapplication—simply apply in short strokes and gently press with a damp sponge or fingertips to blend. Avoid rubbing, as this can disturb your base makeup.
Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer and silica create a lightweight, powder-like texture that absorbs oils and light-diffuses without sitting heavy on skin. The result is a matte, non-tacky finish that feels less occlusive than traditional stick sunscreens. Most users report it dries down within 2–3 minutes.
No, the formula is not labeled water-resistant. For beach or high-water activities, choose a water-resistant sunscreen SPF 50+ and reapply after water exposure. This stick is better suited for daily outdoor activities, walks, and incidental UV exposure. If you do swim, reapply immediately afterward.
Store in a cool, dry place (ideally 15–25°C / 59–77°F). Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or a hot car, as the wax base may soften or melt. A standard stick (typically 15–20g) lasts 4–6 weeks with twice-daily face application and midday touch-ups. Check the PAO (Period After Opening) label on your product for exact shelf life.
Verdict: Tocobo Cotton Airy Sun Stick SPF 50 is a K-beauty stick sunscreen designed for daily protection with minimal texture compromise. The formula combines two broad-spectrum UV filters (butyloctyl salicylate and diethylhexyl 2,6-naphthalate) at SPF 50 with centella asiatica and panthenol for barrier support and calming. The methyl methacrylate and silica matrix delivers a genuinely lightweight, matte finish that blurs onto skin without white cast or greasiness—a genuine advantage for oily or combination skin. The stick format encourages frequent reapplication, a key behavior for reliable sun protection. Limitations include the presence of synthetic fragrance (a potential irritant for sensitive individuals), lack of water resistance (ruling it out for swimming), and the typical small size of stick sunscreens, which demands regular repurchasing. This sunscreen is an excellent fit for anyone with oily or combination skin who values portability, a matte finish, and barrier-supportive botanicals, and who prioritizes reapplication convenience over extreme water resistance.
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
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.