Treatment (Benzoyl Peroxide – 2.5%)
Treatment (Benzoyl Peroxide – 2.5%)
Product Description
Product overview
By acne.org — A pharmaceutical-grade, ultra-micronized 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel formulated by Daniel Kern as Step 2 of The Acne.org Regimen. Spreads clear, absorbs without grittiness, and is pH-balanced to kill C. acnes bacteria with minimal irritation. Studies show 2.5% works as effectively as 10% solutions with significantly less dryness.
Kills 99% of Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide eliminates C. acnes bacteria within minutes of application, the most effective OTC ingredient against acne-causing microbes.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills 99% of Acne Bacteria
Benzoyl peroxide eliminates C. acnes bacteria within minutes of application, the most effective OTC ingredient against acne-causing microbes.
Ultra-Micronized Particles
Triple-milled, pharmaceutical-grade particles penetrate deeper into pores without grittiness, maximizing surface area and effectiveness.
pH-Balanced Formula
Carefully calibrated pH minimizes irritation, making daily use sustainable for the long-term clearing required by The Regimen.
Goes On Clear
Gel-based formula spreads smoothly, won't clump under moisturizer, and won't turn white when you sweat or perspire.
Minimalist Ingredients
Only 8 ingredients total. No fragrance, no dyes, no parabens, no SLS — designed to be as inert as possible while staying preserved.
Backed by Studies
Clinical research confirms 2.5% BPO matches the efficacy of 10% formulas while reducing burning, peeling, and redness significantly.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFDA Pregnancy Category C historically. Generally considered low-risk during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption (under 5%), but always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before use.
Contains no fatty acids, esters, oils, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia. Benzoyl peroxide actually helps reduce malassezia overgrowth on the skin.
Rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores or contribute to congestion in any skin type.
Benzoyl peroxide can oxidize and deactivate tretinoin and other retinoids when applied at the same time. Use BPO in the morning and retinoid at night, or alternate days.
Will permanently bleach colored fabrics, towels, pillowcases, and clothing on contact. Use white linens and let product fully absorb before bedtime.
BPO makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory while using this treatment.
Avoid layering simultaneously (BPO can oxidize ascorbic acid). Use vitamin C in AM, BPO in PM for best results.
Apply to a small area for 2-3 days before full-face use, especially if you have sensitive, eczema-prone, or rosacea-prone skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 2.5%Proven
The gold-standard active for acne treatment. Releases oxygen radicals that kill C. acnes bacteria, reduce inflammation, and gently exfoliate dead skin cells from inside the pore. Studies show 2.5% delivers equal efficacy to 10% with significantly less irritation.
- Mechanism: Generates reactive oxygen species that destroy bacterial cell walls
- Clinical data: 2.5% reduced inflammatory lesions by 50.9% in 8 weeks vs 44.7% for 10%
- FDA status: Approved OTC active ingredient for acne vulgaris
- Speed: Kills over 99% of acne bacteria within minutes of application
Water (Aqua) ~95%Proven
The base solvent of the formula. Dissolves and disperses other ingredients, hydrates skin, and creates the lightweight gel texture that allows BPO to spread evenly without grittiness.
- Function: Solvent and primary delivery vehicle
- Why it matters: Required for benzoyl peroxide gel suspension and even particle dispersion
Butylene Glycol ~3-5%Proven
A small humectant and solvent that draws moisture into the skin and helps deliver active ingredients deeper into the upper layers of the epidermis. Considered safer and lighter than propylene glycol.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, penetration enhancer
- Bonus: Helps offset the drying effect of benzoyl peroxide
- Safety profile: Generally well-tolerated; rare reactions in very sensitive skin
Carbomer ~0.5-1%Proven
A high-molecular-weight acrylic acid polymer that converts the watery base into the signature clear, smooth gel. Has minimal skin penetration and is considered an inert ingredient.
- Function: Thickener and gel-former
- Activation: Neutralized by sodium hydroxide to form the gel matrix
- Skin behavior: Stays on the surface, does not absorb
Phenoxyethanol <1%Proven
A broad-spectrum preservative effective against bacteria, mold, and yeast. Gentle on the skin and considered one of the safer modern preservatives, working across a wide pH range.
- Function: Antimicrobial preservative
- EU regulation: Permitted up to 1% in cosmetics
- Why needed: Prevents microbial contamination over the product's shelf life
Potassium Sorbate <0.5%Proven
A mild preservative effective primarily against mold and yeast. Works synergistically with phenoxyethanol to provide complete preservation in the water-based formula.
- Function: Antifungal, anti-yeast preservative
- Pairs with: Phenoxyethanol for full-spectrum protection
Diazolidinyl Urea <0.5%Promising
A formaldehyde-releasing antimicrobial preservative used at low concentrations to prevent bacterial growth, particularly gram-negative bacteria. Effective but somewhat controversial.
- Function: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative
- Safety review: At under 0.5%, formaldehyde release stays below accepted safety limits
- Note: Ranked among the more common contact allergens in patch testing
Sodium Hydroxide traceProven
Used in tiny amounts to neutralize the carbomer and adjust the pH of the formula to skin-friendly levels (around 5-6), which significantly reduces the irritation potential of benzoyl peroxide.
- Function: pH adjuster and carbomer neutralizer
- Final pH: Skin-balanced to minimize stinging and dryness
8 ingredients
Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5%), Water, Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Sodium Hydroxide.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEStep 2 of The Acne.org Regimen — apply after cleansing on completely clean skin. Wait until absorbed, then follow with moisturizer to lock in hydration and reduce dryness.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash your face gently with a mild, non-foaming cleanser. Pat dry with a clean white towel — never rub or scrub.
Start Slow (Week 1)
Dispense a pea-sized amount once a day at night. Spread very gently over the entire affected area in soft, light strokes — do not rub aggressively.
Ramp Up Gradually (Weeks 2-4)
Slowly increase to two pumps (about a teaspoon, 4mL) twice a day as your skin builds tolerance. The full dose is essential for clearing.
Wait, Then Moisturize
Wait around a minute for the gel to absorb, then apply a generous layer of fragrance-free moisturizer to combat dryness and protect the skin barrier.
Use SPF Every Morning
Benzoyl peroxide increases sun sensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily — non-negotiable while using this treatment.
Be Patient & Consistent
Visible clearing typically takes 4-8 weeks. Don't skip days, and don't quit during the initial purge or dryness phase — push through with extra moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have inflammatory acne (papules, pustules, cysts)
- You've tried salicylic acid without success
- You want a no-frills, science-backed acne fighter
- You have oily or combination skin
- You're committed to a consistent daily routine
- You prefer fragrance-free and dye-free formulas
- You're ready to use SPF every single day
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, eczema-prone, or rosacea-prone skin
- You're already using prescription retinoids without a buffer plan
- You have a known formaldehyde-releaser allergy
- You're pregnant and want to avoid Category C ingredients
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen use
- You only have occasional, non-inflammatory blackheads
- You can't handle bleached pillowcases or towels
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel absorbs without adding shine. Helps regulate excess oil while killing bacteria — ideal match for oily, breakout-prone skin.
Can cause significant dryness and flaking. Use only at night, layer with rich moisturizer, and consider every-other-day application.
Targets oily T-zone breakouts effectively. Apply lighter coverage on drier cheek areas to balance treatment intensity.
Patch test mandatory. The 2.5% strength is the gentlest BPO option, but the diazolidinyl urea preservative may trigger sensitivities.
Gold-standard treatment for inflammatory acne. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and clinically proven to reduce lesions.
Effective for adult hormonal acne. Pair with antioxidants and rich moisturizers as BPO can accelerate skin oxidation over time.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Initial Adjustment
Mild tingling on application is normal. Some users feel the product working immediately, while others notice slight tightness or dryness.
85% notice slight tinglingPurging & Dryness Phase
Skin may flake, peel, or feel tight. Existing congestion may surface. Push through with diligent moisturizing — this phase passes.
70% experience drynessVisible Improvement
Active inflamed pimples shrink and heal faster. New breakouts decrease in frequency and severity. Redness begins to fade.
65% see fewer breakoutsSignificant Clearing
Most users reach noticeable clearing by this stage. Inflammatory lesions reduced by approximately 50% in clinical studies of 2.5% BPO.
75% report major clearingMaintained Clear Skin
With consistent daily use, the vast majority of users following The Regimen achieve completely clear or near-clear skin and maintain it long-term.
80% stay clear with useRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Genuinely clears stubborn inflammatory acne when used consistently
- Pharmaceutical grade with ultra-micronized particles — no grittiness
- Goes on completely clear, doesn't ball up under moisturizer
- Fragrance-free, dye-free, vegan and cruelty-free
- Affordable per-ounce cost compared to dermatologist-prescribed BPO
- Generous size lasts 1-2 months on full Regimen
- Backed by clinical studies and decades of dermatology research
- Minimal 8-ingredient formula reduces irritation triggers
Criticized
- Causes significant dryness and peeling in the first month
- Permanently bleaches colored fabrics, towels and pillowcases
- Requires daily SPF use — non-negotiable
- Contains diazolidinyl urea, a formaldehyde-releaser
- Initial purging period can worsen acne for 2-3 weeks
- Not suitable to use simultaneously with retinoids or vitamin C
- Pregnancy use requires doctor consultation
- Long-term BPO use may accelerate skin oxidative stress
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Wash-off format with 4% BPO instead of leave-on 2.5% gel. Less drying since rinsed away, but contact time is shorter. Best as a starter or supplement.
Combines 4% BPO with ceramides and niacinamide to support the skin barrier. Wash-off format reduces irritation but also reduces leave-on potency.
Uses niacinamide, salicylic acid, and lipohydroxy acid instead of BPO. Gentler on sensitive skin but slower to clear inflammatory acne.
Same 2.5% BPO concentration with added soothing botanicals like green tea and bisabolol. More expensive per ounce but slightly less irritating.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAcne.org Treatment 2.5% BPO (Featured)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Benzoyl peroxide loses potency over time, so do not use past the PAO mark.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration not required, but room temperature below 25°C is ideal.
Pump bottle (8 oz / 16 oz) — hygienic dispensing keeps the formula stable and protected from air exposure that can degrade benzoyl peroxide.
The 8oz/16oz sizes exceed TSA carry-on limits. Decant into a 100ml/3.4oz travel bottle for flights, or check the original bottle in luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQBenzoyl peroxide is historically classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, meaning risk cannot be fully ruled out. However, dermatology guidelines and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists generally consider topical 2.5-5% BPO low-risk during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption (under 5% reaches the bloodstream). Most experts list it as one of the acceptable acne treatments during pregnancy, alongside azelaic acid and limited salicylic acid. Still, always consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before using BPO while pregnant or breastfeeding, and avoid applying to the chest area while nursing.
Yes — this formula is fungal acne safe. The 8-ingredient formula contains no fatty acids, esters, oils, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, benzoyl peroxide itself has antifungal effects and can help reduce Malassezia overgrowth, making it a useful tool for those whose breakouts have a fungal component. The simple water-based gel is one of the cleanest fungal-acne-safe options available.
With caution and proper timing. Avoid layering BPO simultaneously with retinoids — BPO can oxidize and deactivate tretinoin. Use BPO in the morning and retinoid at night, or alternate days. Same applies to L-ascorbic acid vitamin C: use vitamin C in AM, BPO in PM. AHAs (glycolic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) can be combined with BPO but may significantly increase irritation, so introduce slowly. The Acne.org Regimen specifically allows AHA+ to be added as an optional final step after the Treatment.
This treatment is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin with active inflammatory breakouts (red, swollen pimples, papules, pustules). It also works well for those with cystic or hormonal acne. Dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, or rosacea-prone skin should approach with caution — start with every-other-night application, use thick moisturizer on top, and patch test first. The 2.5% strength is the gentlest BPO option, so it's the recommended starting point regardless of skin type.
Most users notice initial improvements in 3-4 weeks, with significant clearing typically achieved by 6-8 weeks of consistent daily use. Clinical studies show 2.5% BPO reduces inflammatory lesions by approximately 50% in 8 weeks. The first 1-2 weeks may include a purging or dryness phase before improvement begins. For complete clearing on The Acne.org Regimen, plan for 2-3 months of strict adherence, and continue indefinitely for maintenance — discontinuing usually leads to acne returning.
Apply as Step 2 of your routine, immediately after cleansing on completely dry skin (the new ultra-micronized formula no longer requires waiting for skin to dry). Follow with moisturizer and, in the morning, broad-spectrum SPF 30+. Order: Cleanser → BPO Treatment → Moisturizer → SPF (AM only). If using AHA+ or other actives, those go after the moisturizer or on alternate evenings. Do not layer BPO under serums containing retinol or vitamin C.
No — it is rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. The 8-ingredient formula contains no oils, butters, or known pore-clogging agents. In fact, benzoyl peroxide is one of the most effective ingredients for unclogging pores, as it penetrates into the follicle to kill bacteria and dissolve dead skin cell buildup. Some users experience an initial purge as existing congestion surfaces, but this clears within 2-3 weeks of consistent use.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Benzoyl peroxide is somewhat unstable and gradually loses potency once exposed to air, light, and heat. Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C, keep the pump tightly closed between uses, and replace after 12 months even if product remains. The 8oz size typically lasts 1-2 months on the full Acne.org Regimen, and the 16oz lasts 3-4 months.
Verdict: Acne.org Treatment (Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%) is one of the most effective and minimalist OTC acne treatments available. Its pharmaceutical-grade, ultra-micronized formula delivers proven clearing power without unnecessary fillers, fragrance, or dyes. The 8-ingredient minimalist approach, generous sizing, and affordable cost-per-ounce make it a top pick for anyone serious about treating inflammatory acne. The trade-offs — initial dryness, fabric bleaching, and required SPF use — are inherent to all benzoyl peroxide products, not unique flaws of this formula. For oily and combination acne-prone skin willing to commit to the full Regimen, this remains a gold-standard 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 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
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 |
Benzoyl Peroxide
Antiacne Agent, Oxidising Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|
|
| 3 |
Potassium Sorbate
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|