Tone Up UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Tone Up UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Product Description
Japan's cult-favourite colour-correcting sunscreen essence β ultra-lightweight with a lavender tint that instantly brightens dull skin. Powered by five next-generation UV filters for SPF 50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum protection, enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C derivative, and formulated free of preservatives and mineral oil. Doubles as a waterproof makeup primer for face and body.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Lavender Tone-Up Tint
A blend of blue and pink micro-pigments creates the signature lavender colour that neutralises dull yellow undertones, leaving skin visibly brighter and more even-toned β instantly, without foundation.
Micro Strobe Pearls
Ultra-fine strobe pearl particles reflect light from multiple angles, creating a three-dimensional luminosity and glass-skin glow that photography loves.
5-Filter Broad-Spectrum UV Shield
Combines Octinoxate, Uvinul A Plus (DHHB), Titanium Dioxide, Tinosorb S, and Tinosorb M for complete UVA + UVB coverage with outstanding photostability.
Super Waterproof Formula
Passed Japan's 80-minute water resistance test. Withstands sweat and water during outdoor activities, yet washes off completely with regular soap and water β no oil cleanser needed.
Hydrating Skincare Actives
Sodium Hyaluronate locks in moisture, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (stable vitamin C) brightens, and the Pure Nuance Complex (passion fruit, prune hydrolysate, chestnut rose) boosts luminosity.
Seamless Makeup Base
The silicone-enriched formula creates a smooth, pore-blurring base that helps foundation adhere better. Many users skip foundation entirely and use this as a standalone base for daily wear.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter with documented hormonal (oestrogen-like) activity in in vitro studies. While real-world risk is considered low, many dermatologists advise pregnant or breastfeeding individuals to choose mineral-only sunscreens as a precaution. Also contains Ethanol (alcohol denat.) and Parfum. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains Polysorbate 60 and Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, both of which are flagged as potential Malassezia yeast triggers by several FA-safety databases (Holy Snails, IsMyProductFASafe). If you have confirmed fungal acne, patch test carefully or choose an FA-certified alternative.
Primary emollients are dimethicone, PEG-12 dimethicone, and caprylic/capric triglyceride β all low-to-non-comedogenic silicones and esters. No pore-clogging heavy oils. Safe for most acne-prone skin types.
Ethanol (denatured alcohol) is the second ingredient after water. In the concentrations used in this formula, alcohol aids quick absorption and matte finish, but individuals with rosacea, eczema, or alcohol sensitivity may experience dryness or irritation. Patch test recommended.
Formulated without parabens or conventional preservatives. Rohto Mentholatum uses alternative stabilisation methods (antioxidant BHT, chelating Disodium EDTA) to maintain product stability without common preservatives.
Does not contain oxybenzone or avobenzone. Titanium Dioxide is included at low levels for UVB support. Considered reef-friendly by most international standards, though nano-particle TiOβ debate continues in scientific literature.
Rohto Mentholatum states the formula is allergy-tested for skin sensitivity. Free from sulfates, gluten, coconut-derived ingredients, and petroleum-based components.
Parfum (fragrance) is listed as the final ingredient β concentration is low but present. Individuals with fragrance allergies should patch test before full-face application.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧴠Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) UV Filter Proven
The primary UVB-absorbing filter in this formula. Highly effective at absorbing UV radiation in the 280β320 nm range and contributes significantly to the high SPF 50+ rating. Oil-soluble and well-studied, Octinoxate has been used in sunscreens globally for decades.
- Function: UVB UV filter, absorbs radiation at peak ~311 nm
- Stability: Moderately photostable; combined with Tinosorb S in this formula for enhanced stability
- Concern: In vitro and animal studies indicate weak oestrogenic activity β real-world dermal absorption is low but noted in pregnancy caution
- Status: Approved in EU, Japan, Australia, and Canada; concentration permitted up to 10% in EU
π Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (Tinosorb S) UV Filter Proven
One of the most advanced broad-spectrum UV filters available outside the United States. Covers the entire UVA + UVB spectrum (280β400 nm) with peak absorption at approximately 310 nm and 345 nm. Highly photostable and doubles as a stabiliser for less stable filters like Octinoxate.
- Function: Broad-spectrum UVA + UVB filter, photostabiliser
- Photostability: Exceptional β does not degrade meaningfully under UV exposure
- SPF contribution: Among the highest SPF-per-weight of any approved UV filter (2007 study of 18 filters)
- Status: Approved EU, Japan, Australia; not FDA-approved in the US
π Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (Uvinul A Plus / DHHB) UV Filter Proven
A next-generation oil-soluble UVA filter with excellent photostability. Specifically engineered to address the limitations of older UVA filters (avobenzone instability) by providing robust, long-lasting UVA I protection without photodegradation.
- Function: UVA I filter, peak absorption ~354 nm
- Photostability: Photostable; does not require photostabilisers
- Status: Approved EU, Japan; not FDA-approved in US (new drug application pending)
πͺ¨ Titanium Dioxide Mineral Filter + Tint Proven
A physical (mineral) UV filter that reflects and scatters UVA and UVB rays. In this formula it serves dual duty: UV protection and contribution to the lavender tone-up tint pigment base. Generally well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Function: Broad-spectrum UVB + UVA II mineral UV filter, pigment
- Skin tolerance: Excellent β minimal irritation potential, suitable for sensitive skin
- Form: Likely micronised for lightweight texture and reduced white cast
π§ Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid β a powerful humectant capable of binding up to 1,000Γ its weight in water. Prevents the drying effect that high-alcohol sunscreens can cause, maintaining skin hydration throughout the day.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Penetration: Smaller molecular weight than native HA; penetrates the upper epidermis for deeper hydration
- Evidence: Well-documented clinical evidence for hydration and plumping
π Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) Vitamin C Derivative Promising
A water-soluble, stable form of vitamin C that converts to ascorbic acid upon skin contact. More stable than L-ascorbic acid and less irritating, MAP provides antioxidant protection, supports collagen synthesis, and contributes to the brightening effect of this formula.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin brightener, collagen precursor
- Stability: Significantly more stable than pure vitamin C under heat, light, and air
- Bioavailability: Converted enzymatically to active ascorbic acid in the skin
πΊ Pure Nuance Complex (Passiflora Edulis + Hydrolyzed Prunus Domestica + Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract) Brightening Complex Promising
Rohto's proprietary blend of three botanical extracts: passion fruit extract (rich in vitamin C and antioxidants), hydrolysed prune (fermented fruit peptides for luminosity), and chestnut rose / Rosa Roxburghii extract (exceptionally high natural vitamin C content, antioxidant). Together they support skin radiance and the tone-up effect.
- Passion fruit extract: Antioxidant, soothing, contains carotenoids and vitamin C precursors
- Hydrolysed prune: Amino acid-rich fermented extract; supports skin barrier and glow
- Rosa Roxburghii: One of the highest natural vitamin C concentrations of any fruit extract (400Γ that of citrus)
36 ingredients
Water, Ethanol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone, Titanium Dioxide, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Passiflora Edulis Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Prunus Domestica, Rosa Roxburghii Fruit Extract, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Acrylates Copolymer, Polysorbate 60, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Silica, PEG-12 Dimethicone, Polystyrene, Polyvinyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Alumina, BHT, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Tin Oxide, CI 73360, CI 42090, Parfum
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply as the final skincare step, after moisturiser and before any makeup. Allow 60 seconds to dry before applying foundation. Shake or squeeze the tube and blend outward from the centre of the face for an even tone-up effect.
π How to Use
Complete Your Skincare Base
Finish your usual cleanse, tone, and moisturise steps. Allow moisturiser to absorb fully (about 60 seconds) before applying sunscreen for best performance and no pilling.
Dispense an Adequate Amount
Squeeze approximately a 10-yen-coin-sized amount (roughly 1.5β2 fingertip units) for the face. For body coverage, use generously β underapplication significantly reduces SPF protection.
Apply in Layers, Not One Thick Coat
Dot the product across the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin, then blend outward using gentle pressing and patting motions. Apply in thin layers to prevent uneven lavender tinting or white cast.
Extend to Neck and Exposed Body Areas
Don't forget the neck, dΓ©colletage, and any exposed arms or legs. The formula is suitable for face and body β extend down for uniform tone-up effect and full protection.
Allow to Set (60 Seconds)
Wait for the formula to set before applying makeup. The Luminous Finish Lock Film activates as it dries, anchoring colour pearls and UV filters in place. Rushing this step can cause makeup to shift.
Reapply Every 2 Hours Outdoors
After sweating, swimming, or towel-drying, reapply immediately. For daily commuting and indoor/outdoor mixed days, reapply every 2β3 hours. Cleanse off with any facial cleanser or soap at the end of the day β no double-cleansing needed.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have fair to medium skin tone (NC10βNC30 range)
- Your skin looks dull, uneven, or lacks natural radiance
- You want a sunscreen that doubles as a makeup primer
- You prefer a one-product morning routine on casual days
- You enjoy lightweight, fast-absorbing J-beauty textures
- You need a waterproof formula for active outdoor use
- You want broad-spectrum protection with next-gen filters (Tinosorb S & M)
- You're looking for a preservative-free and mineral oil-free option
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have medium-deep to deep skin tone β the lavender tint can appear ashy or purple
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and prefer a mineral-only sunscreen
- You have confirmed fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
- You're sensitive or reactive to alcohol denat. (second ingredient)
- You have very dry skin β the semi-matte finish may emphasise dry patches
- You want a completely fragrance-free formulation
- You need a truly invisible, untinted everyday sunscreen
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The high alcohol content aids rapid absorption and controls shine throughout the day. The silica in the formula provides additional oil-absorption. Very popular with oily-skin users in humid climates (Japan, Southeast Asia).
Lightweight enough for oily T-zone without emphasising drier areas. The hyaluronic acid provides just enough hydration for normal-to-dry cheeks while keeping the forehead and nose matte.
Ideal balance of hydration and protection for normal skin. The tone-up effect adds a healthy, lit-from-within glow without feeling heavy. Works beautifully as a standalone base.
The alcohol content and semi-matte finish can emphasise dry patches and cause tightness on very dry skin. Works better over a rich moisturiser. Consider Skin Aqua Super Moisture Essence for dry skin types.
Free from parabens and preservatives β great for sensitivity to those triggers. However, contains alcohol denat. and fragrance. Perform a patch test; individuals with eczema, rosacea, or alcohol sensitivity should exercise caution.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5) and non-greasy formula suits acne-prone skin well. However, the Polysorbate 60 and Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate could potentially trigger fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). Standard acne does fine; fungal acne sufferers should patch test.
π Results Timeline
Instant Brightening & Tone-Up Effect
The lavender pigments and micro strobe pearls deliver an immediate skin-brightening result upon application. Skin looks one tone brighter, more even, and naturally luminous β no waiting required. Functions as a makeup primer from the very first use.
100% notice brightening effect on first useImproved Skin Feel & Hydration
The hyaluronic acid and Pure Nuance Complex begin to support the skin barrier and moisture retention. Users report skin feeling plumper, softer, and less tight after sun exposure. Daily UV protection reduces new hyperpigmentation from forming.
~85% notice improved skin texture and softnessCumulative Brightening from MAP Vitamin C
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate works gradually β by weeks 3β4 of daily use, some users report a visible reduction in dullness and mild fading of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, though results vary by skin tone and existing concerns.
~60% notice a brighter baseline complexionUV Protection Dividends β Prevented Sun Damage
Regular SPF 50+ PA++++ use measurably slows new sun-induced hyperpigmentation, premature photoageing, and UV-triggered collagen breakdown. After 2β3 months of consistent daily use, many users notice a more stable, even-toned complexion compared to before.
~90% of consistent users report maintained or improved tone evennessβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Instant, noticeable skin-brightening tone-up effect
- Ultra-lightweight texture β absorbs in seconds
- Excellent SPF 50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum protection
- Next-generation UV filters including Tinosorb S & M
- Doubles as a seamless makeup primer
- Super waterproof β 80-minute water resistance
- Removes with regular soap, no double-cleansing needed
- Preservative-free and mineral oil-free formula
- Contains real skincare actives (HA, vitamin C, botanical complex)
- Award-winning product with massive cult following in Japan and Asia
β Criticised
- High alcohol denat. content β drying for very dry/sensitive skin
- Lavender tint only flatters fair to medium skin tones (NC10βNC30)
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) β not fragrance-free
- Octinoxate raises concerns for pregnancy and reef use
- Polysorbate 60 may trigger fungal acne in susceptible users
- Strong initial alcohol smell on application (fades quickly)
- 80g tube goes quickly with face + body use
- Not available in large or refill sizes in most markets
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Clear (untinted) Japanese SPF with silky gel texture and similar lightweight feel. Lacks the lavender tone-up effect but shares the preservative-free, waterproof profile. A strong dupe for those who want the J-beauty sunscreen experience without the tint.
Japan's bestselling clear sunscreen with an even more watery, cooling texture. No tone-up tint or strobe pearls, but excellent UV filters, hyaluronic acid, and the same soap-off formulation. Better for medium-to-deep skin tones who don't want the lavender tint.
From the same Skin Aqua line but without the tone-up tint. Uses ultra-low molecular hyaluronic acid for deeper hydration β a better pick for dry skin types or those who want a truly invisible finish. Shares the waterproof and soap-washable benefits.
π Comparison with Competitors
Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence SPF50+ PA++++ β Featured
~$13β16Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+ PA++++
~$10β12Anessa Perfect UV Skincare Milk SPF50+ PA++++
~$28β35Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF50+ PA++++
~$8β10π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. The formula is preservative-free, so once opened, use consistently and replace after one year to ensure UV filter efficacy and formula integrity.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid leaving in a hot car or in direct sun β heat can accelerate degradation of UV filters and alter the formula texture.
Soft squeeze tube (80g / 2.82oz). Squeeze from the bottom to dispense evenly. No pump mechanism β press firmly and apply a coin-sized amount. Cap tightly after each use to prevent alcohol evaporation.
At exactly 80g, this sits right at the standard airline 100ml liquid rule limit by volume β confirm before packing in carry-on. Compact tube fits easily in any travel bag. Available internationally via YesStyle, Amazon, and Stylevana for direct shipping.
β Frequently Asked Questions
This product requires caution during pregnancy. It contains Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter that has shown weak oestrogenic activity in laboratory studies. The real-world risk from topical application is considered low by most dermatologists, but out of an abundance of caution, many healthcare providers recommend using mineral-only sunscreens (containing only Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide as active filters) during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula also contains Ethanol (alcohol denat.) and Parfum. Please consult your OB-GYN or midwife before using this product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Exercise caution if you have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Polysorbate 60 and Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate β both of which are flagged as potential Malassezia yeast triggers by leading fungal acne safety databases (including Holy Snails' FA-safe checker). If you have fungal acne, patch test carefully on a small area for 2 weeks before full-face use. If you prefer a fully FA-safe alternative, consider Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence or Skin Aqua Super Moisture Essence, both of which have cleaner FA profiles.
Yes β this sunscreen is a morning-use product and layers well over most actives. Apply it as the final skincare step after any retinol, vitamin C serum, AHA, or BHA products have absorbed. Because retinol and AHA/BHA increase photosensitivity, wearing a high-SPF sunscreen like this one daily is especially important when using those actives. Note that the Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate in this formula already provides mild vitamin C activity, so layering on top of a high-concentration vitamin C serum is generally fine and not redundant. Do not mix this product directly with other skincare β apply sequentially and allow each layer to set.
This product is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The high alcohol content aids rapid absorption, controls shine, and gives the formula its lightweight, non-greasy feel β properties that oily skin users particularly appreciate. People with dry or very dry skin may find that alcohol increases dryness and the semi-matte finish can emphasise dry patches; in that case, Skin Aqua Super Moisture Essence (alcohol-reduced) or applying over a richer moisturiser is a better option. Sensitive skin types should patch test due to the alcohol denat. and fragrance. For skin tone compatibility, the lavender tint works best on fair to medium skin tones (approximately MAC NC10βNC30).
The tone-up brightening effect is immediate β you'll see a visibly brighter, more even complexion on first application. The micro strobe pearls create an instant glowy finish. Skincare benefits (hydration from hyaluronic acid, mild brightening from Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate vitamin C, and antioxidant support from the Pure Nuance Complex) build gradually over 2β4 weeks of consistent daily use. The most significant long-term benefit β preventing new sun-induced hyperpigmentation and photoageing β becomes visible after 2β3 months of regular use compared to not using daily SPF.
It goes as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, applied after all serums, essences, and moisturisers have been absorbed. The correct order is: cleanser β toner β essence/serum β eye cream β moisturiser β Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence. Wait approximately 60 seconds after your moisturiser before applying the sunscreen. If wearing makeup, apply this first and allow it to set for about 1 minute before foundation or BB cream. This sequence ensures maximum UV filter efficacy and prevents pilling. At night, cleanse it off with any facial cleanser or soap β no oil-based first cleanse required.
The comedogenic risk is low β we rate this formula 2 out of 5. The primary emollients are dimethicone and silicone-based ingredients, which are non-comedogenic and widely tolerated by acne-prone skin. There are no pore-clogging heavy oils (no coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, or similar) in the formula. Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate is the only ingredient with mild comedogenic potential (rated 1β2 by some databases). The high alcohol content actually helps prevent congestion by accelerating absorption and keeping the formula from sitting on the skin. Most people with standard acne-prone skin tolerate this product well. Note: standard acne (comedonal/inflammatory) is different from fungal acne β see the FA question above for Malassezia-specific concerns.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging β it indicates "12M" for 12 months. Because the formula is preservative-free, it is important to replace the product after one year of opening to ensure UV filter efficacy has not degraded and the formula remains stable. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving the tube in hot environments such as a car glove compartment during summer, as heat accelerates UV filter degradation. A single 80g tube typically lasts 1.5β2 months with daily face and body use (face only: 2β3 months).
Verdict: The Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence SPF50+ PA++++ is one of the most compelling everyday sunscreens from Japan β and a legitimate cult product for good reason. Its combination of next-generation UV filters (Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M, plus Uvinul A Plus), immediate skin-brightening tone-up effect, silky waterproof texture, and skin-caring actives delivers far more than the price tag suggests. For oily, combination, and normal skin types with fair to medium skin tones, it's an exceptional morning product that can replace both sunscreen and makeup primer in one step. The only meaningful caveats are the high alcohol content (tough on very dry or alcohol-sensitive skin), fragrance inclusion, the lavender tint's narrow skin-tone compatibility, and fungal acne safety concerns from Polysorbate 60. For everyone else β this is a sunscreen worth the hype.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
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.