Totaloe
Totaloe
Product Description
Vivant Skin Care Totaloe is an oil-free, whole-leaf aloe gel hydrator that calms redness and irritation while delivering lightweight moisture. Powered by aloe vera, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, green tea, and sea algae, it soothes sensitive, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin without grease or shine.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Whole-Leaf Aloe
Uses the entire aloe barbadensis leaf for glycoproteins and mucopolysaccharides that calm inflammation and speed visible healing.
Dermatologist-Formulated
Created by Dr. James E. Fulton, co-developer of the original Retin-A, with over 30 years of clinical use behind the formula.
Pregnancy & Nursing Safe
Free of retinoids, exfoliating acids, and chemical sunscreens; marketed as pregnancy- and nursing-safe.
Multi-Use Soother
Calms sunburn, post-procedure skin, and everyday irritation. Refrigerate for an extra cooling effect.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. The brand markets Totaloe as pregnancy- and nursing-safe. Always confirm with your doctor.
Contains Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment, a yeast-derived ingredient that very malassezia-prone skin may prefer to avoid. The rest of the formula is fungal-acne-friendly.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, alcohol-free, and soothing. Suitable for reactive and rosacea-prone skin; patch test if very reactive.
Plays well with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. Apply after water-based serums; can buffer irritation and layer under richer creams or SPF.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π± Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Whole-Leaf Aloe) High Proven
Whole-leaf aloe is the soul of this formula. It delivers glycoproteins, mucopolysaccharides, vitamins A, C, and E, and binding sugars that hydrate, soothe, and support healing of irritated or inflamed skin.
- Source: Aloe is well documented for anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and wound-healing properties, making it a classic choice for sunburn and post-procedure care.
- Function: Its polysaccharides bind water to the skin surface for lightweight, non-greasy moisture.
𧬠Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2β5% (est.) Proven
Niacinamide is a multitasking form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil, calms redness, and helps fade the look of dark spots and uneven tone over time.
- Source: Topical niacinamide converts to NAD in the skin, an essential coenzyme that supports repair, barrier function, and antioxidant defense.
- Function: Around 5% is typically used to fade dark spots; it's well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
π§ Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.1β2% (est.) Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, this smaller-molecule humectant pulls water into the skin and binds it at the surface for plumper, smoother, more elastic-looking skin.
- Source: Naturally found in skin, joints, and connective tissue, where it maintains hydration and elasticity.
- Function: Typically used between 0.1β2%; lower molecular weight versions are linked to improved hydration and barrier support.
π΅ Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract Antioxidant Promising
One of the most researched plant extracts in skincare. Green tea is rich in catechins (like EGCG) and vitamins E and C that protect against free-radical damage and soothe the skin.
- Source: Studies show green tea applied before UVB exposure reduced DNA damage and redness in human skin.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial; supportive antioxidant defense (not a sunscreen replacement).
π Chondrus Crispus (Red Sea Algae) Marine Promising
A red algae native to the North Atlantic, rich in antioxidants, polysaccharides, peptides, and amino acids that help moisturize skin and support a firmer, healthier-looking appearance.
- Source: Contains lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants noted for helping filter blue light.
- Function: Marine minerals and sea proteins add hydration and a soft, conditioned feel.
12 ingredients
Water, Propylene Glycol, Chondrus Crispus, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Japanese Green Tea), Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use after cleansing, toning, and corrective serums. Layer a richer moisturizer or SPF on top for added hydration and daytime protection.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with freshly cleansed skin, then apply your usual toner and treatment serums.
Dispense
Apply a small amount of the gel to your fingertips. A little goes a long way.
Massage In
Gently massage into the face, neck, back, or chest until fully absorbed.
Layer or Finish
Follow with a heavier moisturizer or SPF in the AM, or use as your final PM step. Reapply as often as needed.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin and want oil-free hydration
- Your skin is easily irritated, red, or rosacea-prone
- You're pregnant or nursing and need a gentle moisturizer
- You want post-procedure or after-sun soothing
- You prefer fragrance-free, lightweight gel textures
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin needing rich, occlusive moisture on its own
- You are extremely malassezia (fungal acne) prone and avoid all ferments
- You dislike a temporary tightening sensation on application
- You want a large-volume jar for full-body use at this price point
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Oil-free, lightweight gel hydrates without adding shine, film, or stickiness.
Balances hydration across oily and drier zones without heaviness.
Fragrance- and dye-free with aloe, niacinamide, and green tea to calm redness.
Non-comedogenic and soothing; just note the yeast ferment if you're very fungal-acne-prone.
Provides hydration but very dry skin will likely want a richer cream layered on top.
π Results Timeline
Cooling & Tightening
Instant soothing and cooling relief, plus a temporary skin-tightening sensation reviewers consistently mention.
90%+ feel itCalmer, Hydrated Skin
Visible reduction in redness and irritation; skin feels softer, more comfortable, and better hydrated.
~80% noticedSmoother Tone & Texture
Niacinamide and green tea support a more even-looking tone and refined, smoother-feeling texture.
~70% noticedResilient, Balanced Skin
Continued barrier support and antioxidant defense for healthier-looking, more balanced skin over time.
~65% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Lightweight, oil-free gel that absorbs fast with no greasy film
- Soothes redness, irritation, sunburn, and post-procedure skin
- Pregnancy- and nursing-safe; gentle for sensitive and rosacea skin
- Multi-tasking actives: aloe, niacinamide, HA, green tea, sea algae
- Wears well under makeup and suits all skin types
β Criticized
- Premium price ($54) for a 3 oz / 89 ml size
- Contains a yeast ferment that may concern fungal-acne-prone users
- Too lightweight on its own for very dry skin
- Limited availability and reviews outside the brand and pro channels
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Pure aloe-based soothing gel that's great for calming and after-sun relief. Lacks Totaloe's niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and algae blend, so it's more of a single-note soother than a complete hydrator.
Delivers light, water-based HA hydration similar to Totaloe's plumping effect. No aloe, niacinamide, or soothing botanicals, so it's less calming for irritated or reactive skin.
Strong niacinamide hit for oil control and pores at a fraction of the price. It's a serum (not a hydrator), has no aloe, and the high concentration can feel drying for some.
π Comparison with Competitors
Vivant Totaloe (Featured)
$54.00Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Jelly
$52.00Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer
$29.00Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance
$66.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
Approximately 12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigerate for a refreshing cooling effect.
3 oz (89 ml) squeeze tube / bottle
Yes β 3 oz (89 ml) is under the 100 ml carry-on limit
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Totaloe is free of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens, and Vivant markets it as pregnancy- and nursing-safe. Its gentle, soothing profile makes it a popular choice during pregnancy. As always, confirm any product with your own doctor.
Mostly, with one caveat. The formula contains Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment, a yeast-derived ingredient that some malassezia-prone users prefer to avoid. The remaining ingredients are fungal-acne-friendly, so if you're only mildly prone you may be fine β but patch test if your skin is very reactive to ferments.
Yes. Totaloe is a gentle, soothing hydrator that layers well with active ingredients and can actually help buffer the irritation that retinoids and acids sometimes cause. Apply it after your treatment serums as a calming, hydrating step.
All skin types, but it shines for oily, combination, acne-prone, sensitive, and rosacea-prone skin thanks to its oil-free, calming, fragrance-free formula. Very dry skin can still use it but may want a richer moisturizer layered on top.
Soothing and cooling are immediate. Reduced redness and softer, more comfortable skin typically appear within the first week, while tone and texture benefits from niacinamide and green tea build gradually over 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use.
Apply Totaloe after cleansing, toning, and your corrective serums. You can use it as a standalone lightweight hydrator, or layer a richer moisturizer or SPF on top for more intense hydration and daytime protection. Use AM and/or PM, as often as needed.
No. Totaloe is oil-free and formulated to be non-comedogenic, with an estimated comedogenic rating of about 1 out of 5. That makes it a sensible choice for breakout-prone and congestion-prone skin looking for lightweight moisture.
Around 12 months after opening, which is typical for a water-based gel preserved with phenoxyethanol. Keep the cap closed and store it in a cool, dry place; refrigerating it is optional and adds a pleasant cooling sensation on application.
Verdict: Totaloe is a smart, gentle, oil-free hydrator that punches above its simple 12-ingredient list. Whole-leaf aloe, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, green tea, and sea algae make it genuinely soothing for sensitive, acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and pregnant or nursing users, and it layers beautifully under makeup or SPF. The main trade-offs are the premium $54 price for a 3 oz size and a yeast ferment that very fungal-acne-prone skin may want to patch test. For calming, lightweight daily hydration, it's an easy recommendation.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Chondrus Crispus
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|