Tretinoin Gel 0.05%
Tretinoin Gel 0.05%
Product Description
Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% (A-Ret) is a pharmaceutical-grade, prescription-strength topical retinoid โ the gold standard active ingredient for clearing acne, fading dark spots, reducing fine lines, and improving overall skin texture. Formulated by Italy's Menarini Group, this clear gel delivers all-trans retinoic acid directly to skin cells with a lightweight, fast-absorbing base.
โจ Texture & Feel
Gold-Standard Retinoid
Tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) is the only topical retinoid FDA-approved for both acne and photoaging. It works directly at the receptor level โ no conversion needed, unlike retinol.
Collagen-Boosting Action
Clinically proven to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis in the dermis, reducing fine lines and improving skin firmness with consistent use over 3โ6 months.
Accelerated Cell Turnover
Speeds up the natural skin renewal cycle to shed dead cells faster, unclog pores, fade post-acne marks, and reveal smoother, brighter skin from below.
Minimal Inactive Ingredients
Only 11 total ingredients. The clean base includes emollients from olive-derived PEG esters and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride to soften and buffer the skin during treatment.
Lightweight Gel Base
Non-greasy clear gel texture suits oily and combination skin types. Carbomer creates a smooth, spreadable formula that absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy residue.
Decades of Clinical Evidence
Tretinoin has over 50 years of peer-reviewed dermatological research behind it, making it one of the most thoroughly studied topical actives in existence.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Tretinoin is a retinoid and is absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Systemic retinoids are known teratogens; topical use should also be avoided. Consult your OB-GYN before using any retinoid while pregnant or nursing.
Contains PEG-4 Olivate and Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters โ PEG esters derived from olive oil that may feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), use with caution or consult a dermatologist.
Tretinoin accelerates cell turnover, leaving fresh skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning without exception while using this product.
Do not layer tretinoin with AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), vitamin C, or benzoyl peroxide in the same PM routine โ this significantly increases irritation risk.
This formulation does not contain drying alcohols (ethanol, denatured alcohol), making it less stripping than some other tretinoin gel brands that use isopropyl alcohol.
Contains no added fragrances or common contact allergens identified by INCI safety databases, reducing the risk of sensitisation reactions.
Preserved with methylparaben and propylparaben โ well-studied preservatives considered safe at cosmetic concentrations by regulatory bodies including the EU SCCS and the FDA. Suitable for most users, including those with eczema.
Tretinoin is actually comedolytic (pore-clearing). The base ingredients score low on comedogenicity. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride rates 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores despite being coconut-derived.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ Tretinoin 0.05% Proven
All-trans retinoic acid โ the active metabolite of Vitamin A that works directly at nuclear retinoic acid receptors without any conversion steps. At 0.05%, this is the mid-strength formulation, offering a balance between efficacy and tolerability. It is the only topical retinoid with FDA approval for both acne and photoaging.
- Mechanism: Binds RAR-ฮฑ, RAR-ฮฒ, and RAR-ฮณ nuclear receptors to regulate cell differentiation and proliferation, accelerate keratinocyte turnover, reduce comedone formation, and stimulate type I collagen synthesis.
- Acne: Reduces and prevents microcomedones by normalising follicular epithelium desquamation; also has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Anti-aging: Studies show significant improvement in fine lines, skin firmness, and mottled hyperpigmentation after 24 weeks of daily use.
- Dark spots: Disperses melanin granules in keratinocytes and inhibits tyrosinase activity for a brightening effect.
- Evidence level: Gold standard โ over 50 years of peer-reviewed clinical data; FDA-approved since 1971 (acne) and 1995 (photoaging).
๐ซ PEG-4 Olivate Emulsifier Functional
A polyethylene glycol ester of olive oil fatty acids. Functions as an emollient to soften skin and as an emulsifier to stabilise the gel formula. Contributes a smooth, non-greasy skin feel and helps solubilise the active ingredient uniformly throughout the base.
- Skin feel: Imparts a distinctive smoothness and helps improve the spreadability of the gel.
- Source: Derived from olive oil (oleic acid-rich) โ provides mild moisturising properties.
๐ฟ Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters Co-emulsifier Functional
Another olive oil-derived PEG ester that acts as a water-soluble co-emulsifier and skin conditioning agent. Works synergistically with PEG-4 Olivate to create a stable, elegant gel texture. Claimed to offer long-term moisturising benefits and smooth skin feel.
- Function: Oil-in-water emulsification stabiliser; also helps solubilise fragrances if present (none here).
๐ง Propylene Glycol Humectant Proven
A multifunctional ingredient acting as a humectant (attracts moisture), solvent (helps dissolve other ingredients), and penetration enhancer that improves delivery of tretinoin into skin. Also provides antimicrobial properties that help extend product shelf life.
- Hydration: Draws water from the environment into the upper skin layers.
- Delivery: Enhances the penetration depth of active ingredients through the stratum corneum.
๐งซ Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient Proven
A lightweight, clear liquid ester produced by combining glycerin with coconut oil fatty acids (C8 and C10 chains). It is technically not an oil but behaves like one โ providing skin-softening, moisture-barrier support, and excellent oxidative stability. This ingredient is key to preventing tretinoin from degrading the skin's natural barrier during treatment.
- Barrier support: Forms a light protective film over skin, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Comedogenic: Rates 1/5 โ very unlikely to clog pores despite coconut-derived origin.
- Stability: Highly resistant to oxidation, contributing to the product's shelf life.
๐ง Carbomer Gelling Agent Functional
A high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid that gives the formula its characteristic clear, smooth gel consistency. Typically used at less than 1% concentration. Its large molecular size means minimal skin penetration, making it essentially inert on the skin surface.
- Function: Creates the gel structure that ensures even, controlled application of the tretinoin active.
- Safety: Considered very safe; no known skin sensitisation issues at cosmetic use levels.
11 ingredients
Active: Tretinoin 0.05%
Inactive: PEG-4 Olivate, Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, Methylparaben (Methyl Hydroxybenzoate), Propylparaben (Propyl Hydroxybenzoate), Propylene Glycol, Silicone Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Purified Water
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
๐ Use in your PM routine only โ tretinoin is photolabile and should not be applied in the morning. Always cleanse thoroughly and let skin dry completely (wait 20โ30 min) before applying to minimise irritation. Apply SPF every morning without exception.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Dry Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser (avoid foaming sulfate cleansers). Pat dry and wait 20โ30 minutes before applying. Applying to damp skin significantly increases irritation and absorption of tretinoin.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pearl-/pea-sized amount (approximately 0.25โ0.5g) onto a fingertip. This is enough to cover the entire face. Using more product does not improve results and dramatically increases side effects.
Apply to Face โ Avoid Sensitive Areas
Dot small amounts across the forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose, then blend gently outward. Strictly avoid the eye area (orbital bone), corners of the mouth, nostrils, and lips โ these areas are extremely sensitive to tretinoin.
Start Slowly โ 2โ3x Per Week
New users should start with 2โ3 applications per week for the first 4โ6 weeks, then gradually increase to nightly use as tolerance builds. This "low and slow" approach dramatically reduces the initial purging and flaking phase.
Follow with a Rich Moisturizer
Apply a barrier-repairing moisturizer on top to combat dryness and flaking. Ingredients to look for: ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, squalane. This "sandwich method" (moisturizer โ tretinoin โ moisturizer) can also reduce irritation for very sensitive skin.
Always Use SPF in the Morning
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30โ50+ sunscreen every single morning, rain or shine. Tretinoin thins the stratum corneum temporarily, significantly increasing UV sensitivity. Sun protection is non-negotiable when using tretinoin.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have persistent acne (comedonal, inflammatory, or cystic)
- You want to address fine lines, wrinkles, or skin laxity
- You have hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or post-acne marks (PIH)
- You have enlarged pores or rough, uneven skin texture
- You have oily or combination skin that tolerates active ingredients
- You've previously used retinol and are ready to step up to prescription-strength
- You're committed to daily SPF application
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
- You have eczema, rosacea, or severely compromised skin barrier
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin with no retinoid experience
- You are currently undergoing laser treatments, waxing, or chemical peels
- You are taking oral photosensitising medications without dermatologist supervision
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, non-greasy gel base absorbs without adding shine. Tretinoin actively regulates sebum production over time โ many oily-skin users report significant reduction in oil after 8โ12 weeks.
Performs well across T-zone and drier cheek areas. The matte-finish gel won't exacerbate oiliness, while a good moisturiser on top compensates for dryness in drier zones.
Can be used with dry skin but requires extra care. A richer moisturiser is essential. Start at 1โ2x/week and build very slowly. The "sandwich method" (moisturiser before and after tretinoin) is highly recommended.
Requires a very slow introduction schedule. Begin with 1โ2 applications per week and only increase frequency after 6โ8 weeks. The fragrance-free formula minimises sensitisation risk, but initial retinisation (peeling, redness) is common.
The primary reason most people use tretinoin. Clears existing acne, prevents new comedones forming, reduces inflammation, and fades post-acne hyperpigmentation simultaneously. Comedogenic rating: 1/5.
Well-suited for maintenance and preventative anti-aging. Normal skin typically experiences a shorter, milder adjustment period and can progress to nightly use more quickly than sensitive or dry skin types.
๐ Results Timeline
Skin Adjustment (Retinisation)
Initial dryness, mild peeling, flaking, or redness as skin adapts to the active retinoid. Some users experience a temporary increase in breakouts (purging) as existing clogs are brought to the surface. This is normal and expected.
85% experienced initial dryness or flakingSkin Begins to Smooth Out
Flaking subsides for most users as skin acclimates. Texture becomes noticeably smoother and pores may appear tighter. Active breakouts start to diminish. Skin tone begins to look more even.
60% notice smoother texture by week 6Significant Acne Clearance
Clinical studies show meaningful reduction in total acne lesion counts (inflammatory and non-inflammatory) within 8โ12 weeks of consistent nightly use. Post-acne marks begin fading visibly as melanin disperses.
70%+ achieve marked improvement or clearance by week 8โ12Anti-Aging & Brightening Effects
Collagen remodelling becomes perceptible โ fine lines appear softer, skin firmness improves, and overall radiance increases. Hyperpigmentation and sun damage fade significantly. SPF use is critical during this phase to protect gains.
80% report improved skin tone and texture by month 6Long-Term Skin Transformation
With continued daily use, tretinoin delivers cumulative dermal collagen thickening, sustained pore-clearing, and progressive improvement in skin quality. Many long-term users (1+ year) report near-complete resolution of acne and visibly younger-looking skin.
90%+ report sustained improvement with 6+ months useโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Prescription-strength 0.05% tretinoin โ clinically proven efficacy
- Cleared acne, dark spots, and improved texture for consistent users
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, sulfate-free formulation
- Very minimal ingredient list โ just 11 total ingredients
- Lightweight, non-greasy clear gel suitable for oily skin
- Highly affordable compared to brand-name tretinoin equivalents
- Decades of gold-standard clinical evidence behind the active
- Also fades hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and post-acne marks
โ Criticized
- Significant initial purging / retinisation phase (peeling, dryness, redness)
- Requires daily SPF use without exception โ lifelong commitment
- Prescription-only in many countries (US, UK, EU) โ limits accessibility
- Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not fungal acne safe due to olive PEG esters
- Contains parabens โ a concern for some consumers
- Requires patient, gradual introduction; not for instant-results seekers
- Small tube size (15โ20g) may feel insufficient for longer treatment periods
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Identical active ingredient (tretinoin 0.05%) available as a generic pharmaceutical from various manufacturers (e.g., Retin-A generic, Akrikhin, Tretinoin USP). Minor formula differences in inactive ingredients (base may use alcohol or different emollients), but the same therapeutic effect. Requires a prescription in most regions.
Third-generation retinoid (adapalene 0.1%) available over the counter. Comparable acne-fighting efficacy to tretinoin 0.025%, with significantly less irritation. Less effective for anti-aging and photoaging than tretinoin 0.05%. Major advantage: no prescription needed in many countries. Fragrance-free and good for sensitive skin beginners.
OTC retinoid ester (hydroxypinacolone retinoate) that doesn't require conversion to retinoic acid but is considerably less potent than tretinoin 0.05%. Much gentler with minimal irritation โ ideal for retinoid beginners. Does not require a prescription. Good starter product before graduating to prescription-strength tretinoin. Not equivalent in clinical efficacy for acne clearance or photoaging.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% โญ Featured
~$8โ15Retin-A Tretinoin Gel 0.05% (Ortho/Janssen)
~$80โ150+Differin Adapalene 0.1% Gel (Galderma)
~$13โ18Obagi Tretiva Tretinoin 0.05% Cream
~$20โ35๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Tretinoin is photosensitive and can degrade with light and heat exposure โ always replace the cap tightly after use and store correctly to maintain potency.
Store at room temperature (15โ25ยฐC / 59โ77ยฐF), away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humidity. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid leaving in a hot car or sunny bathroom windowsill โ heat degrades tretinoin.
Opaque laminated tube with screw cap โ the opaque packaging protects tretinoin from light-induced degradation. Available in 15g and 20g tube sizes. The tube format minimises air exposure and preserves formula stability.
Yes โ both 15g and 20g sizes are well under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage. The sealed tube is spill-proof. Note: as a prescription medication, carry with original packaging and prescription documentation when travelling internationally.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No โ Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% is not safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Tretinoin is a retinoid (all-trans retinoic acid), and all retinoids are strictly contraindicated during pregnancy due to their teratogenic (birth-defect-causing) potential. While topical absorption is much lower than oral retinoids like isotretinoin, the risk is considered unacceptable and dermatologists universally recommend discontinuing any form of tretinoin before trying to conceive, throughout pregnancy, and during breastfeeding. Consult your OB-GYN for safe skincare alternatives during this period.
No โ Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% is not considered fungal acne safe. The formula contains PEG-4 Olivate and Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters, which are polyethylene glycol esters derived from olive oil. Olive oil is rich in oleic acid, a fatty acid that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). If you have confirmed fungal acne, look for a tretinoin formulation with a simpler base that avoids fatty acid esters โ such as the Menarini A-Ret 0.1% Gel which uses a different base without the PEG-olivate esters. Always consult a dermatologist if you are unsure whether your breakouts are bacterial acne or fungal in origin, as they require different treatments.
Not in the same application. Tretinoin should not be layered with vitamin C (ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic, mandelic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or other retinoids in the same PM session โ this can cause excessive irritation, redness, and barrier damage. However, you can still use these actives in a split routine: for example, use vitamin C in your AM routine and tretinoin in your PM routine on separate days or every night. AHAs/BHAs can be incorporated on alternate nights if your skin is well-adapted to tretinoin. Benzoyl peroxide can inactivate tretinoin and should be used separately. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides are all compatible with tretinoin and can be used in the same PM routine after applying the gel.
Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types due to its lightweight clear gel base that doesn't add greasiness. The gel formula is also effective for normal skin and those focused on anti-aging. Dry and sensitive skin types can use it but require a more gradual introduction and must pair it with a richer moisturiser and may benefit from the "sandwich method" (applying moisturiser before and after tretinoin). If you have dry or sensitive skin and want prescription-strength tretinoin, a cream formulation (like Obagi Tretiva cream or Retin-A Micro) is generally better tolerated. Tretinoin is not recommended for those with eczema, rosacea, or severely compromised skin barriers without close dermatologist supervision.
Timeline varies by concern. For acne: most users see significant improvement within 8โ12 weeks of consistent nightly use, with some noticing clearer skin as early as 4โ6 weeks. For texture improvement: noticeable smoothing typically appears around weeks 4โ8. For dark spots and hyperpigmentation: fading begins around 6โ8 weeks but meaningful results usually take 3โ4 months. For anti-aging (fine lines, firmness, collagen remodelling): this occurs in the dermis and typically takes 3โ6 months of consistent use to become visible. Patience is essential โ tretinoin is a long-game ingredient. Many users also experience an initial purging phase (weeks 1โ4) where breakouts temporarily worsen before improving. This is normal.
Tretinoin belongs in your PM (evening/night) routine only โ it is photosensitive and should never be applied in the morning. After cleansing and optional toning, wait 20โ30 minutes for skin to dry completely (applying to damp skin increases irritation and absorption), then apply a pea-sized amount of the gel. Follow immediately with your moisturiser. Never apply tretinoin as the final step before sleep without a moisturiser on top. In the morning, always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30โ50+ as the last step of your AM routine, as tretinoin increases sun sensitivity. Do not use tretinoin on the same night as AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, or other retinoids.
No โ quite the opposite. Tretinoin itself is comedolytic, meaning it actively unclogs pores by normalising the rate at which dead skin cells are shed from follicular walls. This is one of the primary mechanisms by which it treats and prevents acne. The Comedogenic Rating for this formula overall is 1/5 (very low). The inactive ingredients score low on comedogenicity: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride rates 1/5, and the gel base is non-occlusive. The PEG-olivate esters do carry a fungal acne concern but are not considered traditionally comedogenic. This product is suitable for acne-prone and pore-congested skin types.
Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Tretinoin is sensitive to light, heat, and air โ always ensure the tube cap is fully tightened after each use and store in a cool (15โ25ยฐC), dark location away from direct sunlight and humidity. Signs of degraded tretinoin include a change in colour (from pale yellow to darker yellow/orange), altered smell, or reduced efficacy. If the tube has been stored in a hot bathroom cabinet or left in sunlight, potency may degrade before the 12-month mark. For best results, store in a bedroom drawer or medicine cabinet away from heat sources.
Verdict: Menarini Tretinoin Gel 0.05% is one of the most clinically effective and cost-efficient topical skincare actives available. Backed by over 50 years of peer-reviewed research, tretinoin at 0.05% hits the sweet spot between potency and tolerability โ strong enough to deliver real results for acne, dark spots, fine lines, and skin texture, while manageable for most users who introduce it gradually. The clean, minimal 11-ingredient formula is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and free from common sensitisers, making it a no-nonsense pharmaceutical product. The main caveats: it is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy, requires daily SPF without exception, is not fungal acne safe, and demands patience through the initial adjustment period. For anyone committed to a science-backed retinoid routine, this is among the most accessible and affordable prescription-strength options on the market.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-4 Olivate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 4 |
Methylparaben
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 7 |
Propylparaben
Perfuming, Fragrance, Preservative
|
|