Tretinoin 0.05%
Tretinoin 0.05%
Product Description
Product overview
The first and only FDA-approved prescription tretinoin 0.05% in an innovative lotion base — uniquely formulated with sodium hyaluronate, soluble marine collagen, and glycerin for a hydrating retinoid experience. Clinically proven in two Phase 3 randomized controlled trials to significantly reduce both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions within 12 weeks, with lower rates of irritation than traditional tretinoin gels and creams.
Gold-Standard Retinoid
Tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) is the only FDA-approved topical retinoid for acne and the most studied anti-aging active in dermatology. At 0.05%, Altreno delivers clinically proven efficacy for both comedonal and inflammatory acne.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGold-Standard Retinoid
Tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) is the only FDA-approved topical retinoid for acne and the most studied anti-aging active in dermatology. At 0.05%, Altreno delivers clinically proven efficacy for both comedonal and inflammatory acne.
Unique Hydrating Lotion Base
Unlike traditional tretinoin gels and creams, Altreno's polymeric honeycomb mesh matrix delivers the active ingredient while simultaneously hydrating with sodium hyaluronate, soluble marine collagen, and glycerin — reducing the classic "retinization" dryness.
Phase 3 Clinically Proven
Two randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trials in subjects aged 9+ showed statistically significant reductions in both inflammatory lesions (avg. −13.9 lesions vs. −10.7 vehicle) and non-inflammatory lesions (avg. −21.9 vs. −13.9 vehicle) over 12 weeks.
Soluble Marine Collagen
The soluble collagen (fish-derived) in the formula helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier and provides a plumping, cushioning effect within the lotion matrix. Note: caution in patients with known fish allergies.
Compatible with Makeup
A split-face controlled clinical study (Bhatia et al., 2020) demonstrated that Altreno is fully compatible with facial foundation makeup, making it practical for daytime use if needed — though evening application is still recommended.
Anti-Aging Bonus Benefit
While primarily FDA-approved for acne, tretinoin is extensively studied for photoaging. Regular use stimulates collagen synthesis, accelerates cell turnover, and reduces the appearance of fine lines, uneven tone, and sun damage over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETretinoin is a retinoid (vitamin A derivative). All retinoids — including topical tretinoin — are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic risk. Do not use Altreno if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. Consult your dermatologist immediately.
It is not known whether topical tretinoin is absorbed systemically in amounts sufficient to be detected in breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider to weigh the clinical benefit against any potential risk to the nursing infant before using Altreno while breastfeeding.
Altreno does not contain fatty acids, fermented ingredients, or problematic esters that feed Malassezia. Mineral oil, glycerin, and carbomers are all confirmed fungal-acne safe. This formula is generally considered safe for those managing malassezia folliculitis alongside acne.
Mineral oil is rated 0–1 on the comedogenic scale; glycerin and sodium hyaluronate are both non-comedogenic. Tretinoin itself actively unclogs pores, making Altreno a highly unlikely pore-clogger for most skin types.
Altreno contains soluble fish proteins (marine collagen). Use with caution if you have a known sensitivity or allergy to fish. Discontinue use and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop hives (urticaria) or itching during treatment.
Tretinoin increases photosensitivity significantly. Minimize unprotected UV exposure (sunlight and sunlamps). Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning without exception. Avoid sunburned skin before applying Altreno.
Avoid concurrent use with other potentially irritating topicals (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, AHA/BHA, strong alcohol-based products) on the same skin area, as combining these may increase dryness and irritation. Discuss all skin medications with your prescriber.
Altreno contains methylparaben, a widely studied preservative used at safe cosmetic concentrations (under 1%). Current scientific consensus from the CIR and EU SCCS supports its safety in leave-on formulations at approved levels. Those with paraben sensitivity should be aware.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTretinoin 0.05%Gold Standard
Tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) is the active ingredient and a direct metabolite of vitamin A. It binds with high affinity to nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RARs), directly regulating gene expression involved in keratinocyte differentiation, sebum production, and inflammatory pathways. It is the only topical retinoid with direct FDA approval for acne vulgaris treatment.
- Mechanism: Normalizes follicular epithelial keratinization and desquamation, preventing microcomedone formation
- Anti-acne: Reduces both inflammatory lesions (avg. −13.9) and non-inflammatory lesions (avg. −21.9) vs. vehicle in Phase 3 trials
- Anti-aging: Stimulates procollagen type I & III synthesis; increases epidermal thickness; corrects photodamage (Kircik et al., 2019)
- Cell turnover: Accelerates shedding of dysfunctional corneocytes and promotes new, healthy keratinocyte proliferation
Sodium Hyaluronate SupportingProven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid — a naturally occurring polysaccharide that holds up to 1,000x its weight in water. In Altreno's lotion matrix, it acts as a humectant that continuously draws moisture from the environment to hydrate skin throughout the day, partially counterbalancing the drying effects of tretinoin.
- Humectancy: Binds atmospheric moisture at the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Barrier support: Helps maintain skin hydration, reducing perceived irritation during retinization
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — completely non-pore-clogging
Soluble Collagen SupportingProven
Marine-derived (fish) soluble collagen in Altreno's matrix functions as a film-forming moisturizer and skin-conditioning agent. It provides a smooth, non-greasy skin feel and helps the formula retain moisture at the surface. It forms the basis of Altreno's patented polymeric honeycomb mesh — enabling uniform distribution of tretinoin across the skin.
- Texture role: Contributes to Altreno's unique lotion consistency, distinguishing it from all other tretinoin formulations
- Skin feel: Imparts a silky, non-sticky finish that supports makeup compatibility (Bhatia et al., 2020)
- Uniform delivery: The collagen matrix allows consistent, controlled distribution of the tretinoin active across the skin surface
Glycerin SupportingProven
A well-established humectant and skin-conditioning agent derived from plant or synthetic sources. Glycerin draws moisture to the skin surface and into the upper layers of the stratum corneum, helping to maintain epidermal hydration and protect against irritation — a key benefit during the retinization phase of tretinoin therapy.
- Hydration: Proven to reduce TEWL and improve skin barrier function in clinical studies
- Tolerability: Helps buffer the irritation potential of tretinoin, supporting longer-term patient compliance
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — non-comedogenic, universally safe
Mineral Oil SupportingProven
A highly refined, purified petroleum-derived occlusive agent used in cosmetic-grade concentrations to seal in moisture and protect the skin's lipid barrier. Despite misconceptions, pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil is non-sensitizing, hypoallergenic, and rated 0–1 on the comedogenic scale when used in appropriate concentrations.
- Occlusive: Creates a breathable barrier that reduces TEWL without completely blocking oxygen exchange
- Tolerability: Used extensively in dermatology and pediatric formulations for its mildness and safety profile
- Fungal acne safe: Mineral oil does not promote Malassezia growth — confirmed FA-safe ingredient
13 ingredients total
Active: Tretinoin 0.05%
Inactive: Benzyl Alcohol, Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), Carbomer Copolymer Type B (Pemulen TR-1), Carbomer Homopolymer Type A (Carbopol 981), Glycerin, Methylparaben, Mineral Oil, Octoxynol-9, Purified Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Soluble Collagen, Trolamine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Altreno after cleansing to clean, dry skin at night. Wait 20–30 minutes before applying moisturizer to minimize dilution. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash the affected area with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat skin completely dry — applying to damp skin increases penetration and the risk of irritation. Wait at least 10 minutes after washing before applying.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Pump a pea-sized amount of Altreno onto your fingertip. This is enough to cover the entire face. Using too much will not increase efficacy — it will only increase the risk of irritation and dryness.
Spread Evenly Over Affected Areas
Gently spread the lotion across the face or affected skin in a thin, even layer. Avoid the eyes, mouth, corners of the nose (paranasal creases), and mucous membranes. If contact with these areas occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Let It Absorb (20–30 Minutes)
Allow Altreno to fully absorb before applying moisturizer. This waiting period helps prevent dilution of the active and reduces the risk of "balling" or product interference. Do not rinse off.
Apply Moisturizer
After the waiting period, apply a bland, non-comedogenic moisturizer to help manage dryness and reinforce the skin barrier. Look for humectant + occlusive combinations (e.g., ceramides + hyaluronic acid). This is especially important during the first 8–12 weeks of use.
Use SPF Every Morning
Tretinoin increases sun sensitivity significantly. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every morning, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows. Protective clothing and hats are advised for prolonged outdoor exposure.
Introduce Slowly to Minimize Retinization
Week 1–2: Apply every 3rd night. Week 3–4: Every other night. Week 5+: Nightly as tolerated. This gradual introduction dramatically reduces the classic retinization period (purging, peeling, redness) and improves long-term adherence.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild-to-severe acne vulgaris (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules)
- You've been prescribed tretinoin and want a less-drying lotion format
- You previously experienced excessive irritation from tretinoin gels or creams
- You want a multi-benefit product that also addresses fine lines and photoaging
- You want to use makeup after application (proven compatible in clinical study)
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin that tolerates actives reasonably well
- You're aged 9 and older and have a valid prescription
- You're concerned about hydration while using a retinoid
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy
- You have a known allergy or sensitivity to fish or fish proteins
- You have active eczema, rosacea, or severely compromised skin barrier
- You are looking for an over-the-counter (non-prescription) option
- Your budget does not allow for Rx pricing (~$115–$135 per tube)
- You need a retinoid safe for use during the day without sun protection
- You have previously been confirmed allergic to methylparaben
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal — tretinoin reduces sebum production and unclogs congested pores. The lightweight lotion base won't add shine. Most tolerated retinoid format for oily skin types.
Works very well across T-zone and drier cheek areas. The hydrating lotion matrix helps balance dryness in drier zones while targeting oiliness and breakouts in the T-zone.
Better than gel or cream tretinoin for dry skin types thanks to the built-in hyaluronic acid and glycerin. However, a rich moisturizer applied after is still essential to prevent excessive peeling and tightness.
Any tretinoin can trigger sensitivity reactions. While Altreno's lotion formula is gentler than gels, those with reactive or sensitized skin should start very slowly (every 3rd night) and use a barrier repair moisturizer. Consult your dermatologist first.
Tretinoin is the gold standard for acne-prone skin. Altreno is FDA-approved specifically for acne vulgaris. Non-comedogenic formula (rating 1/5), fungal acne safe, and actively clears pore congestion from within.
Off-label, tretinoin 0.05% is one of the most evidenced topical treatments for fine lines, pigmentation, and photoaging. The lotion format with collagen and HA makes Altreno especially suitable for mature, drier skin seeking retinoid anti-aging benefits.
Results timeline
MONTHS 6–12Initial Skin Adjustment (Retinization)
Skin may appear slightly drier, flakier, or more sensitive than usual. This is the retinization phase — the skin adapting to accelerated cell turnover. Some users experience mild redness or peeling. Minimize with slow introduction and barrier-supportive moisturizing.
80% notice skin adjustmentPotential "Purging" Phase
Tretinoin accelerates cell turnover, which can temporarily bring existing microcomedones to the surface. Some users experience a brief acne "flare." This is a normal, expected phase and typically resolves before week 8. Stick with the regimen.
30–40% experience initial purgingVisible Improvement Begins
Inflammatory lesion counts begin declining. Skin texture starts improving. The retinization period resolves for most users. Pores appear cleaner and tighter. Consistent nightly use becomes easier as tolerance builds.
~55% see noticeable improvementClinically Proven Endpoint
By 12 weeks (the Phase 3 trial endpoint), Altreno demonstrated a mean reduction of 13.9 inflammatory lesions and 21.9 non-inflammatory lesions vs. vehicle. Treatment success (≥2-grade IGA improvement) was achieved in 16.5–19.8% of Altreno patients vs. 6.9–12.5% vehicle. Clear skin is not guaranteed but significant improvement is expected.
~19.8% achieve clear/almost clear skinAnti-Aging Benefits Emerge
With continued use, users begin noticing improvements in skin texture smoothness, reduction in hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks, and early signs of fine line reduction. Consistent use is required to maintain all benefits — acne can return when tretinoin is discontinued.
~70% notice improved skin textureRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only tretinoin 0.05% available in a lotion — gentler than gels and creams
- Built-in hyaluronic acid and collagen reduce dryness during treatment
- FDA-approved with two Phase 3 RCT trials backing efficacy
- Clinically proven makeup compatibility — no interference with foundation
- Fragrance-free, silicone-free, alcohol-free formula
- Non-comedogenic (rating 1/5); fungal acne safe
- Approved from age 9 — suitable for teen acne
- Many users report significantly less irritation vs. generic tretinoin
Criticized
- High retail price (~$115–$135 per 45g tube without insurance)
- Not available as a generic — pharmacies may substitute regular tretinoin
- Contains fish-derived collagen — not suitable for those with fish allergies
- Contains methylparaben (a paraben preservative)
- Retinization period still occurs — initial purging and dryness expected
- Requires a valid prescription — not OTC accessible
- Some users find the lotion texture too heavy or occlusive in warm climates
- Increases sun sensitivity — daily SPF is non-negotiable
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
The same active ingredient at the same concentration — the generic is bioequivalent to brand-name tretinoin. The key difference is the base: generic creams or gels lack Altreno's sodium hyaluronate, collagen, and glycerin hydration matrix, making them potentially more irritating. For cost-conscious patients comfortable managing dryness with a separate moisturizer, generics are highly effective alternatives. Available with a standard tretinoin prescription at most pharmacies.
The only FDA-approved OTC retinoid for acne, adapalene 0.1% is gentler than tretinoin 0.05% with a lower irritation profile. It's an excellent starting point for retinoid beginners, those with sensitive skin, or anyone without access to a prescription. However, tretinoin is generally considered more potent, especially for anti-aging benefits. No prescription required — significant advantage over Altreno.
Curology offers prescriber-supervised custom tretinoin formulas (0.01%–0.1%) combined with other actives (niacinamide, azelaic acid, etc.) in a personalized, subscription-based model. The cost per month is lower than retail Altreno and includes online prescriber oversight. However, exact formulations vary per patient and the base may differ from Altreno's proprietary hydrating matrix. Good alternative for ongoing prescription access.
Retin-A Micro uses microsphere technology for slow-release tretinoin delivery, which may reduce irritation vs. standard gels while maintaining efficacy. Available in 0.04% and 0.1% concentrations. Like Altreno, it requires a prescription. At a similar or lower price point and without the fish protein concerns, it's a practical alternative — though it lacks the specific hydrating lotion matrix of Altreno.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard any remaining product after this period to ensure stability and efficacy of the tretinoin active.
Store at controlled room temperature: 20°–25°C (68°–77°F). Excursions permitted to 15°–30°C (59°–86°F). Protect from freezing. Keep away from direct light and heat sources. Store pump upright.
45g opaque tube with pump dispenser. The pump format ensures hygienic, mess-free dispensing and prevents contamination of the formula. The opaque packaging protects the light-sensitive tretinoin active from photodegradation.
At 45g / 1.6 oz, Altreno is borderline for carry-on liquid limits (most airlines allow up to 100ml/100g). As a prescription medication, carry your original pharmacy label and prescription documentation. May be placed in hold luggage without restriction.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Altreno is NOT safe during pregnancy. Tretinoin is a retinoid (vitamin A derivative), and all retinoids are contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk of teratogenicity (birth defects). Animal studies have shown malformations at doses close to the maximum recommended human dose. Although topical absorption is lower than oral retinoids, there are reports of birth defects in infants whose mothers used topical tretinoin. Do not use Altreno if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. For breastfeeding: the safety is unknown — it is not established whether absorbed tretinoin reaches breast milk in clinically significant amounts. Discuss with your prescriber before using while nursing.
Yes, Altreno is generally considered safe for those managing malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne). The formula does not contain fatty acids, ferments, esters, or polysorbates that are known to feed the Malassezia yeast. Glycerin, mineral oil, carbomers, sodium hyaluronate, and trolamine are all confirmed malassezia-safe ingredients. The soluble collagen (a protein, not a fatty acid) does not directly feed Malassezia. Additionally, by reducing comedonal acne and normalizing follicular keratinization, tretinoin may indirectly help improve skin conditions that accompany fungal acne.
Use with extreme caution or avoid concurrent application. Combining Altreno with other exfoliating or active ingredients — such as AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, or vitamin C — significantly increases the risk of irritation, redness, peeling, and compromised barrier function. If you use vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), apply it in the morning and Altreno at night on separate sessions. AHA/BHA products should be used on different nights, if at all, especially during the first 3 months of tretinoin therapy. Retinol is redundant if you are using prescription tretinoin — do not combine them. Always consult your prescribing dermatologist before combining actives.
Altreno is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types — where tretinoin's pore-clearing, sebum-regulating, and anti-comedonal effects are most impactful. The unique hydrating lotion base (with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and collagen) also makes it a better option for dry or normal skin types compared to standard tretinoin gels. While sensitive skin types can use Altreno, they should introduce it very gradually (every 3rd night initially) and use a generous barrier-supportive moisturizer. Those with active eczema or severely compromised skin barrier should wait until the skin has healed before starting tretinoin.
Clinical trials measured results at 12 weeks, which is the standard treatment endpoint. Most users begin noticing meaningful improvement in acne lesion counts between weeks 6–8. However, the first 2–4 weeks often involve a "retinization" period (purging, dryness, flaking) before improvement becomes visible. Anti-aging benefits (texture improvement, reduction in fine lines and pigmentation) typically take 6–12 months of consistent use to become apparent. Patience and consistency are critical — stopping tretinoin before the 12-week mark is the most common reason for perceived treatment failure.
Altreno should be applied after cleansing and toning (if used), and before moisturizer. The recommended sequence: (1) Gentle cleanser → (2) Toner (optional, avoid active toners) → (3) Altreno on dry skin → (4) Wait 20–30 minutes → (5) Moisturizer. The waiting period before moisturizer helps prevent dilution of the active and reduces the risk of product interaction. In the morning (AM routine), follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen — this is non-negotiable while using any retinoid. Altreno is formulated for nighttime use, though it was proven compatible with morning foundation application in clinical studies.
No — Altreno has a very low comedogenic risk (rated 1/5). The formula's key ingredients — glycerin (0), sodium hyaluronate (0), mineral oil (0–1), carbomers (0) — are all non-comedogenic or very low on the scale. More importantly, tretinoin itself is one of the most powerful anti-comedogenic actives available: it actively normalizes follicular keratinization and prevents the formation of microcomedones (the precursor to all acne lesions). Altreno is safe for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to clog pores in most users.
Altreno should be used within 12 months of opening (PAO: 12M). To maximize the shelf life of your tube: store it upright at room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C), protect it from freezing and direct light or heat, and replace the pump cap firmly after each use. The opaque tube packaging is designed to protect the tretinoin active from light-induced degradation. A 45g tube typically lasts 3–6 months with daily pea-sized application to the face, meaning one tube rarely approaches the 12-month limit under normal use.
Verdict: Altreno Tretinoin 0.05% Lotion earns its place as a genuine innovation in the retinoid category. By pairing prescription-strength, FDA-approved tretinoin with a hydrating matrix of sodium hyaluronate, soluble marine collagen, and glycerin, Ortho Dermatologics has created a meaningfully differentiated formula that addresses the most common barrier to tretinoin adherence: irritation and dryness. Two Phase 3 RCTs confirm its clinical efficacy for acne vulgaris, and its unique makeup-compatible lotion texture broadens its practical usability. The caveats are real — it's contraindicated in pregnancy, contains fish proteins that may concern some patients, and carries a premium price tag vs. generic tretinoin. But for patients who previously struggled with tretinoin side effects, or who want the gold-standard retinoid experience with built-in hydration,Altreno is among the best-formulated tretinoin options available by prescription.
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Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG/PPG-1/2 Copolymer
Solvent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|