Tretinoin Cream 0.025%
Tretinoin Cream 0.025%
Product Description
Viatris Tretinoin Cream 0.025% is a prescription-strength topical retinoid cream formulated with all-trans-retinoic acid β the gold-standard active ingredient in dermatology. Used for over 50 years to treat acne vulgaris and improve signs of photoaging, this entry-level concentration is ideal for retinoid beginners and those with sensitive skin who want clinically proven results with a gentler introduction to tretinoin therapy.
β¨ Texture & Feel
50+ Years of Clinical Proof
Tretinoin is the most extensively studied topical retinoid in dermatology, with decades of peer-reviewed research validating its efficacy for acne and photoaging.
Accelerates Cell Turnover
Stimulates mitotic activity and speeds up follicular epithelial cell renewal, effectively unclogging pores and preventing microcomedo formation at the source.
Dual-Action: Acne + Anti-Aging
FDA-approved for both acne vulgaris and photoaging β the only topical retinoid with dual approval. Improves fine lines, dark spots, texture, and pore appearance over time.
Beginner-Friendly Concentration
At 0.025%, this is the lowest and most tolerable prescription strength, recommended as a starting point for retinoid novices and those with sensitive or reactive skin.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Tretinoin is a Vitamin A derivative (retinoid). Topical retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential teratogenic risk. Discontinue use and consult your OB/GYN immediately if you become pregnant.
The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acids of concern, polysorbates, or esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe to use if you are prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
Tretinoin significantly increases photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning beds, and sunlamps during use. Apply tretinoin at night only.
Expect dryness, redness, peeling, and mild irritation during the first 4β8 weeks as your skin adjusts. This is a normal retinoid adjustment phase. Start slowly (every 2β3 nights) and increase frequency gradually.
Tretinoin may cause severe irritation on eczematous skin. Use with extreme caution if you have eczema, perioral dermatitis, or active rosacea. Always consult your dermatologist first.
Keep away from the eyes, mouth, corners of the nose, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, flush thoroughly with water. Not for use on sunburned, windburned, or broken skin.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
β Tretinoin 0.025% Proven
All-trans-retinoic acid β the active pharmaceutical ingredient and most potent naturally occurring form of Vitamin A for topical use. Tretinoin is the only retinoid FDA-approved for both acne treatment (1971) and photoaging (1995), with over 50 years of clinical evidence supporting its efficacy and safety profile.
- Mechanism: Decreases cohesiveness of follicular epithelial cells, reduces microcomedo formation, and stimulates rapid cell turnover and extrusion of comedones.
- Anti-aging: Stimulates collagen synthesis, improves dermal matrix, reduces fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and surface roughness from photodamage.
- Bioavailability: NIH/DailyMed data shows less than 0.3% of topically applied dose is systemically absorbed β minimal systemic exposure.
- Clinical data: In a vehicle-controlled trial, Tretinoin Cream 0.025% applied once daily for 12 weeks produced significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesion counts.
𧱠Stearic Acid Emollient / Emulsifier Proven
A saturated fatty acid derived from vegetable or animal sources, stearic acid serves as a key emulsifier and texture enhancer in this hydrophilic cream vehicle. It helps stabilize the oil-water emulsion, provides a smooth, spreadable consistency, and contributes mild emollient properties to the skin barrier.
- Function: Primary emulsifier and vehicle structuring agent. Helps evenly distribute tretinoin across the skin surface.
- Comedogenic rating: 2/5 β low-moderate. Generally well tolerated in cream formulations at typical concentrations.
- Skin feel: Contributes to the characteristic smooth, non-greasy texture of the cream.
π§ Isopropyl Myristate Emollient / Penetration Enhancer Proven
A synthetic ester of isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid widely used in pharmaceutical dermatology. Isopropyl Myristate (IPM) functions as a lightweight emollient and penetration enhancer, helping tretinoin permeate into the follicular epithelium more effectively while reducing drag during application.
- Function: Enhances skin absorption of the active ingredient. Reduces occlusion and greasy feel versus heavier mineral oils.
- Note on FA: IPM is an ester but is generally considered safe for fungal acne in formulations without additional triggering fatty acids at high concentrations.
- Comedogenic rating: 3/5 β moderate. Used at low concentrations in pharmaceutical-grade formulas with minimal pore-clogging risk in practice.
π PEG-40 Stearate (Polyoxyl 40 Stearate) Emulsifier / Surfactant Proven
A polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid that acts as the primary non-ionic surfactant and co-emulsifier in the cream base. PEG-40 Stearate creates a stable oil-in-water emulsion, allowing the lipophilic tretinoin to be uniformly suspended in the aqueous cream vehicle for consistent application and dosing.
- Function: Emulsifier, solubilizer, and consistency enhancer. Ensures tretinoin is evenly distributed throughout the cream.
- Safety: Well-established pharmaceutical excipient with a long track record in topical drug formulations. Non-irritating at standard use concentrations.
𧴠Stearyl Alcohol Emollient / Viscosity Agent Proven
A fatty alcohol (not a drying alcohol) derived from stearic acid, stearyl alcohol is a key co-emulsifier and texture modifier. It contributes to the cream's rich, smooth consistency, helps stabilize the emulsion, and provides mild emollient benefits to the skin surface without clogging pores significantly.
- Function: Thickening agent, emulsion stabilizer, and mild emollient. Improves spreadability and skin feel.
- Comedogenic rating: 2/5 β low-moderate. Not a true pore-clogger at concentrations used in topical pharmaceuticals.
- Note: Fatty alcohols are NOT the same as drying alcohols (ethanol, isopropyl alcohol). They are moisturizing and skin-compatible.
πΏ Xanthan Gum Rheology Modifier Proven
A natural polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation of glucose, xanthan gum is used as a rheology modifier and stabilizer in the cream formulation. It provides the product with its characteristic smooth, flowing consistency that spreads evenly without being too thick or too runny.
- Function: Thickening agent, emulsion stabilizer, and texture modifier. Provides a smooth, even consistency for precise application.
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-sensitizing, biodegradable polymer with an excellent safety profile in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
π‘οΈ Sorbic Acid Preservative Proven
A naturally derived organic acid (originally from the berries of mountain ash) used as an antimicrobial preservative. Sorbic acid effectively prevents bacterial and fungal contamination of the cream during its shelf life, ensuring product safety and integrity without the use of parabens.
- Function: Broad-spectrum preservative active against mold, yeast, and bacteria. Used at low concentrations (typically 0.1β0.2%).
- Safety: One of the safest preservatives available. Naturally derived. Paraben-free preservation system.
π BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) Antioxidant Proven
A synthetic antioxidant used at trace amounts to protect the tretinoin active and other formula components from oxidative degradation. BHT is critical in retinoid formulations because tretinoin is inherently photolabile and oxidation-sensitive β BHT extends the potency and shelf life of the cream by scavenging free radicals.
- Function: Antioxidant and formula stabilizer. Prevents oxidative rancidity of the lipid components and degradation of the tretinoin active.
- Concentration: Used at trace levels (typically 0.01β0.1%) β far below any safety thresholds.
π¦ Water (Purified Water / Aqua) Solvent / Base Proven
Purified pharmaceutical-grade water forms the continuous aqueous phase of this oil-in-water emulsion. Water acts as the solvent for water-soluble components, helps create the hydrophilic cream texture, and contributes to the product's lightweight, non-occlusive feel on skin.
- Function: Primary solvent and vehicle base for the hydrophilic cream formulation.
- Grade: Purified / pharmaceutical-grade water, meeting USP standards for topical drug products.
9 ingredients
Tretinoin USP 0.025%, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate (PEG-40 Stearate), Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid, Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), Purified Water
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, completely dry skin (wait 20β30 min after cleansing). Use at night only. Follow with a gentle moisturizer. Always apply SPF 30+ the next morning β tretinoin significantly increases photosensitivity.
π How to Use
Cleanse Gently
Wash your face with a mild, non-foaming, sulfate-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh scrubs, exfoliating cleansers, or anything that could compromise the skin barrier before tretinoin application.
Wait 20β30 Minutes
Allow your skin to dry completely β ideally for 20 to 30 minutes after washing. Applying tretinoin to damp skin significantly increases irritation and the likelihood of redness and peeling.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount (approximately 0.5g) onto a fingertip. Dot it lightly across your forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose. Gently smooth into the skin. Avoid the eye area, corners of the nose, lips, and any open wounds or irritated skin.
Start Slowly β Build Up Gradually
Begin by applying every 2β3 nights for the first 2β4 weeks to allow your skin to acclimate. As tolerance improves, gradually increase to nightly use. Never exceed once-daily application.
Follow With a Gentle Moisturizer
Apply a fragrance-free, barrier-supportive moisturizer over the tretinoin to help buffer initial irritation. Look for ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane-based formulas. Avoid active ingredients like AHA, BHA, or Vitamin C on the same night.
Apply SPF Every Morning β Without Exception
Tretinoin makes your skin highly sensitive to UV radiation. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every single morning, regardless of weather or season. This is non-negotiable for results and safety.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have a prescription for tretinoin 0.025% from your dermatologist
- You're new to retinoids and want to start at the lowest effective strength
- You have mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris (blackheads, whiteheads, papules)
- You want to address fine lines, sun damage, and uneven skin texture long-term
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin prone to breakouts
- You're looking for a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient prescription retinoid
- You can commit to consistent nightly use and daily SPF application
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding β retinoids are contraindicated
- You have severe eczema or highly reactive skin β consult dermatologist first
- You cannot or will not wear daily SPF β UV protection is mandatory with tretinoin
- You have an allergy to any listed excipient in the formula
- You want an OTC option β tretinoin is Rx only; consider adapalene 0.1% instead
- You want a higher-strength retinoid (0.05% or 0.1%) for more advanced concerns
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The cream vehicle provides adequate emolliency without feeling heavy on oily skin. Tretinoin's pore-normalizing action directly targets the comedonal acne common in oily skin types.
The 0.025% strength is an ideal starting point for normal skin looking to address mild acne or early photoaging. Generally well-tolerated after the initial adjustment period.
Works well for combination skin. The cream texture provides sufficient moisture for drier cheek areas while effectively clearing congested T-zones. Pair with a lightweight moisturizer.
The cream formulation (vs. gel) is the preferred choice for dry skin types. Requires a richer moisturizer layered on top and possibly a "sandwich method" to minimize initial dryness and flaking.
Fragrance-free formula is a plus, but even 0.025% can be irritating for very sensitive skin. Start every 3 nights, use the moisturizer sandwich method, and always consult your dermatologist before starting.
π Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment (Retinoid Dermatitis Phase)
Expect skin to feel drier, more sensitive, and potentially flaky or red. This is the normal retinoid purging and adjustment phase. Acne may temporarily worsen (the "purge") as cell turnover accelerates and deeper congestion surfaces. Continue use as directed.
90%+ experience thisTolerance Builds β First Improvements Appear
Skin begins to adapt to tretinoin. Redness and peeling subside. Some users notice fewer new breakouts forming, improved skin texture, and a more even tone beginning to emerge. Purging subsides for most users by week 8.
~60% notice improvementVisible Acne Clearance & Texture Improvement
Significant reduction in acne lesions for most users. In a clinical vehicle-controlled trial, tretinoin 0.025% produced meaningful percent reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion counts at 12 weeks. Skin texture begins visibly smoothing. Fine lines may appear softer.
~75% see clear improvementPeak Results β Anti-Aging & Skin Renewal
Full anti-aging and anti-acne benefits typically manifest at 6β12 months of consistent nightly use. Improved collagen synthesis leads to smoother, firmer skin. Hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks visibly fade. Pores appear minimized. Results are progressive and accumulate over time.
~85% see transformative resultsβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Most clinically proven retinoid with 50+ years of research
- Dual FDA approval for acne AND photoaging
- Lowest prescription strength β ideal for beginners
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, minimal ingredient list
- Addresses acne, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and texture simultaneously
- Cost-effective generic pharmaceutical formulation
- Less than 0.3% systemic absorption β excellent topical safety profile
- Viatris/Mylan is a trusted pharmaceutical-grade manufacturer
β Criticized
- Requires a prescription β not accessible OTC like adapalene
- Significant initial purging and irritation phase (4β8 weeks)
- Mandatory daily SPF use β increases routine complexity
- Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Night-use only β cannot be used in the morning routine
- Results require 3β6 months of consistent use to be clearly visible
- More irritating than adapalene (Differin) for sensitive skin types
- Small tube sizes (20g or 45g) with relatively short PAO
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The closest OTC retinoid alternative. Adapalene 0.1% gel has equivalent efficacy to tretinoin 0.025% for acne in multiple meta-analyses, with better tolerability and less irritation. Available without a prescription. However, it lacks tretinoin's FDA approval for photoaging, making it less versatile for anti-aging goals.
Compounded tretinoin formulas from telehealth services (e.g., Curology, Nurx, Apostrophe) often add buffering agents like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or azelaic acid to reduce irritation. Same active concentration, potentially better tolerated for sensitive skin. Not FDA-reviewed as a finished drug product but widely used.
Retinol (not tretinoin) requires conversion to retinoic acid in the skin, making it significantly less potent than prescription tretinoin. However, it is much gentler, widely available OTC, and suitable for those who cannot tolerate or access prescription retinoids. Suitable as a stepping stone to tretinoin.
π Comparison with Competitors
Viatris Tretinoin Cream 0.025% (This Product)
~$15β$30 RxDifferin (Adapalene 0.1% Gel)
~$12β$18 OTCRetin-A (Tretinoin 0.025% Cream β Brand)
~$150β$300 RxTretinoin 0.05% Cream (Higher Strength)
~$20β$40 Rxπ¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Tretinoin is photolabile β antioxidant BHT in the formula helps maintain stability, but use the product within 12 months of opening for full potency.
Store at room temperature, between 68Β°Fβ77Β°F (20Β°Cβ25Β°C). Keep away from heat, direct sunlight, humidity, and open flames. Do not freeze. Keep tightly capped when not in use.
Collapsible aluminum or laminate pharmaceutical tube with a sealed cap. Available in 20g and 45g sizes. The opaque tube protects tretinoin from light degradation β keep in original packaging.
Yes β the 20g tube is well under the 100ml TSA/liquid limit and is ideal for travel. Keep in a cool, dark place during transit. Do not leave in a hot car or checked luggage in extreme temperatures.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. Tretinoin is a topical retinoid (Vitamin A derivative) and is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Retinoids are classified as Pregnancy Category X due to their teratogenic potential. Although systemic absorption from topical tretinoin is very low (less than 0.3%), the risk to a developing fetus is considered unacceptable. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, stop using this product immediately and consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist for a safe alternative. Common alternatives for acne during pregnancy include topical azelaic acid or benzoyl peroxide at low concentrations, as advised by your physician.
Yes. The formula does not contain any of the known ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast β specifically, there are no fermented extracts, polysorbates, problematic fatty acids (lauric acid, myristic acid at concerning levels in isolation), or other known fungal acne triggers. The full ingredient list is: Tretinoin 0.025%, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Sorbic Acid, BHT, and Purified Water. This makes it suitable for individuals who are prone to pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). As always, if you have active fungal acne, consult your dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis and whether tretinoin is appropriate for your specific case.
Use caution when combining tretinoin with other potent actives. Tretinoin itself is already a powerful exfoliating and cell-renewing active β layering additional exfoliants on the same night is not recommended and increases the risk of severe irritation, barrier damage, and prolonged redness. Avoid using AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), and Vitamin C on the same night as tretinoin. There is no need for a separate retinol product when using prescription tretinoin, as tretinoin IS the active form of Vitamin A and does not require conversion. For morning use, Vitamin C serums are generally fine as they are applied at a different time. Always confirm combinations with your prescribing dermatologist, especially for AHA/BHA peels or other prescription actives like azelaic acid.
Tretinoin Cream 0.025% is most ideally suited for normal, combination, and oily skin types, particularly those with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris, blackheads/whiteheads, or early signs of photoaging. The cream formulation (as opposed to a gel) makes it more tolerable and appropriate for normal-to-dry skin compared to tretinoin gel. Dry skin types can use it successfully with a robust moisturizing routine. Sensitive skin types should start at the lowest possible frequency (every 2β3 nights) and consider the "moisturizer sandwich" method (applying moisturizer both before and after tretinoin) to minimize irritation. Rosacea, eczema, or severely reactive skin types should consult their dermatologist before starting tretinoin.
Expect a timeline of 3β6 months for meaningful, visible results β patience is essential. During weeks 1β4, most users experience the "retinoid dermatitis" adjustment phase (dryness, peeling, possible purging) with little visible improvement. By weeks 4β8, skin begins to tolerate tretinoin better and some users notice fewer new breakouts forming. At 3 months (12 weeks), clinical studies demonstrate significant reductions in inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesion counts. At 6β12 months, cumulative anti-aging benefits (improved texture, faded dark spots, reduced fine lines) become clearly visible. Using more or applying more frequently will NOT speed up results and will only cause more irritation. Consistency is the single most important factor.
Tretinoin should always be used as a nighttime-only step. Apply it after cleansing and waiting 20β30 minutes for skin to dry completely (applying to damp skin increases irritation significantly). In your PM routine, the order is: (1) Gentle cleanser β (2) Wait 20β30 minutes for skin to fully dry β (3) Apply a pea-sized amount of Tretinoin Cream β (4) Wait 10β15 minutes for absorption β (5) Follow with a fragrance-free, barrier-supportive moisturizer. In your AM routine, always apply SPF 30+ β this is mandatory as tretinoin significantly increases UV sensitivity. Avoid other active ingredient products (AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C) on the same night you use tretinoin.
Ironically, tretinoin is one of the most effective anti-comedogenic treatments available β it actively unclogs pores by normalizing follicular epithelial cell turnover and preventing microcomedo formation. The overall comedogenic rating of the Viatris formulation is approximately 2/5 (low-moderate), primarily due to isopropyl myristate (rated 3/5 individually) and stearyl alcohol/stearic acid (each rated 2/5). However, at the concentrations used in pharmaceutical formulations, these excipients rarely cause significant pore-clogging in practice. The active ingredient's anti-comedogenic action far outweighs any theoretical risk from the excipients. If you experience new breakouts after starting tretinoin, this is more likely the normal purging phase than comedogenic reactions.
Tretinoin Cream 0.025% should ideally be used within 12 months of opening. Tretinoin (all-trans-retinoic acid) is a photolabile and oxidation-sensitive molecule, meaning it can degrade with exposure to light, air, and heat over time. The formula includes BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) as an antioxidant stabilizer specifically to extend the active ingredient's potency and shelf life. To maximize the product's stability: always close the cap tightly after use, store at room temperature (68Β°Fβ77Β°F / 20Β°Cβ25Β°C) away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humidity. Do not store in the refrigerator (unless your dermatologist specifically recommends it) as temperature extremes can affect the emulsion stability. The unopened product has a typical shelf life of 2 years from manufacture date.
Verdict: Viatris Tretinoin Cream 0.025% is a gold-standard pharmaceutical retinoid and one of the most clinically proven topical treatments in modern dermatology. With over 50 years of research, dual FDA approval for acne and photoaging, and a minimal fragrance-free formulation, it delivers transformative skin renewal results for those who use it consistently and correctly. The 0.025% concentration strikes the ideal balance for retinoid beginners β potent enough for clinically meaningful results, gentle enough to be tolerated with a sensible introduction protocol. The mandatory Rx requirement, significant initial adjustment phase, and strict sun protection requirements are real considerations, but for anyone willing to commit to the process under dermatologist guidance, this cream represents an exceptional value and one of the most effective skincare investments available.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 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
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Myristate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-40 Stearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Foam Boosting, Masking, Opacifying, Refatting, Viscosity Controlling
|
|