Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream
Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A fast-absorbing, alcohol-free gel cream moisturizer formulated with Glacial Glycoprotein and Micronized Amino Acid to deliver 24-hour hydration while visibly reducing shine, minimizing pores, and keeping oily and normal skin balanced, refreshed, and healthy-looking all day.
Cooling Gel Sensation
Menthoxypropanediol delivers an immediate cooling effect on application, instantly refreshing and reinvigorating the skin — ideal for hot climates and summer routines.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCooling Gel Sensation
Menthoxypropanediol delivers an immediate cooling effect on application, instantly refreshing and reinvigorating the skin — ideal for hot climates and summer routines.
24-Hour Hydration
Clinically tested to maintain optimal skin moisture balance for a full 24 hours. Glycerin and Biosaccharide Gum-1 work together to attract and lock in moisture without heaviness.
Glacial Glycoprotein Technology
Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract — originally derived from Antarctic sea glaciers — deeply hydrates skin while also helping to regulate sebum production and minimize the appearance of pores over time.
Micronized Amino Acid (Sarcosine)
This unique amino acid penetrates into pores to reduce pro-sebum production activity, visibly decreasing shine and minimizing pore appearance with consistent daily use.
Zero-Residue Formula
Lightweight silicones (Dimethicone, Dimethiconol) create a silky-smooth skin feel without any greasy residue, making it ideal for layering under sunscreen or makeup.
Refillable & Sustainable
Available in a refillable format made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, aligning with Kiehl's commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThis formula contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at a low concentration (<1%). While topical salicylic acid in leave-on products at low levels is generally considered low-risk, many dermatologists and OB-GYNs advise caution or avoidance during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract (a ferment that may feed Malassezia yeast) and Isononyl Isononanoate (an ester). Both ingredients are considered potentially problematic for those with fungal acne. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider a Malassezia-safe alternative.
Kiehl's has dermatologist-tested and certified this formula as non-comedogenic. The gel-cream base is water-dominant and free from heavy occlusive oils, making it unlikely to clog pores for most skin types. Overall comedogenic score: 1/5.
No added fragrance, essential oils, or masking fragrances. The cooling sensation comes from Menthoxypropanediol, a synthetic cooling agent — not a fragrance ingredient. Suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin.
The 2021 reformulation removed the Alcohol Denat. found in the original formula. The current version uses Propanediol (a non-drying glycol) instead, making it much gentler on the skin barrier.
Free from parabens, mineral oil, TEA (triethanolamine), dyes, and sulfates. Preserved with Phenoxyethanol and Chlorphenesin, both widely regarded as safe alternatives to parabens at approved concentrations.
Salicylic Acid appears near the end of the INCI list, indicating it's present at well under 1% — likely as a pH adjuster or mild pore-refining agent rather than a clinical exfoliant. At this level, most skin types tolerate it well, but those with aspirin allergies should patch test first.
Contains Dimethicone and Dimethiconol for a silky texture. These are non-comedogenic, skin-safe silicones, but those who prefer silicone-free products should note their presence. Silicones layer well under SPF and makeup.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin >5% est.Proven
One of skincare's most well-researched humectants, Glycerin is the second ingredient in this formula (after water), indicating a significant concentration. It draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers into the surface, providing immediate and sustained hydration without any greasy feel.
- Mechanism: Attracts water molecules via hydrogen bonding, acting as a moisture reservoir in the stratum corneum.
- Study (Fluhr et al., 2008): Glycerin significantly improves skin hydration, barrier function, and skin mechanical properties at concentrations as low as 3%.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0. Well-tolerated by all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone.
Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract (Glacial Glycoprotein) <1%Proven
Kiehl's signature active ingredient, originally isolated from microorganisms found in Antarctic sea glaciers. Also known commercially as Antarcticine, this ferment extract is a powerful multi-tasker that provides both deep hydration and visible sebum control — making it the star of the oil-free formula.
- Hydration (in vivo): A 1% Antarcticine cream increased skin hydration by 14.8% in cold weather conditions.
- Sebum Reduction: Reduces melanocortin-5 receptor (MC5R) activity, a key driver of sebum production, leading to visibly less shine and fewer active follicles.
- Pore Minimizing: Manufacturer data shows a 9.5% reduction in active follicles and a 27.2% reduction in total follicular surface area after 28 days of use.
- Anti-aging: A 5% concentration cream reduced depth of periorbital wrinkles by 44%.
Sarcosine (Micronized Amino Acid) <1%Promising
An N-methyl derivative of the amino acid glycine, Sarcosine is used here as Kiehl's proprietary "Micronized Amino Acid" for targeted sebum regulation. Its small molecular size allows it to penetrate deep into pores to act at the source of excess oil production.
- Mechanism: Inhibits pro-sebum production activity by acting on sebaceous gland pathways, reducing the rate of new sebum secretion over time.
- Visible Effect: Clinical testing by Kiehl's showed visibly minimized pores and reduced facial shine with consistent use.
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated. Naturally occurring in the body as a metabolic intermediate.
Dimethicone 3–5% est.Proven
A lightweight, non-volatile silicone that provides the characteristic silky skin feel of this gel cream. Dimethicone creates a breathable, non-occlusive film that smooths the skin surface, fills fine lines temporarily, and protects against transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- TEWL Reduction: Forms a protective barrier on the skin surface without clogging pores, reducing moisture evaporation.
- Texture: Responsible for the non-greasy, velvety glide of the product and ensures a smooth makeup primer effect.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 1. Dermatologist-approved. Safe for all skin types including acne-prone.
Biosaccharide Gum-1 <1%Proven
A fermentation-derived polysaccharide with powerful humectant and skin-soothing properties. It forms a light film on the skin that binds moisture while also providing a long-lasting hydration effect and calming irritated skin.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains water in the upper layers of the skin, supporting sustained 24-hour hydration claims.
- Skin-Soothing: Anti-inflammatory properties help calm reactive and sensitive skin types.
- Texture: Contributes to the gel-like feel of the formula without heaviness.
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A stable, esterified form of Vitamin E that serves as a potent antioxidant in the formula. It neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollution, helping to prevent premature skin aging and soothing inflammation.
- Antioxidant: Converts to active Tocopherol in the skin, which neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) to prevent oxidative damage.
- Barrier Support: Works synergistically with the formula's humectants to support a healthy skin barrier.
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0. Safe for all skin types.
22 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Dimethicone, Isononyl Isononanoate, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethiconol, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Pentylene Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Tocopheryl Acetate, Menthoxypropanediol, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sarcosine, Salicylic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as your moisturizing step after serums and before sunscreen. Suitable for AM and PM routines. A pea-sized to dime-sized amount is sufficient for the full face.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Begin with a gentle or oil-control cleanser suited for your skin type. Pat your face dry with a clean towel, leaving skin slightly damp to maximize absorption of subsequent products.
Apply Toner & Serums (Optional)
If using a toner, essence, or treatment serum (such as niacinamide or hyaluronic acid), apply these water-based layers first and allow them to absorb for 30–60 seconds before moving on.
Dispense a Small Amount
Scoop out a pea-sized to dime-sized amount of the gel cream. A little goes a long way — using too much can cause pilling, especially if layered under makeup or SPF.
Apply & Massage In
Using clean fingertips, apply in gentle upward and outward motions across the entire face and neck. Massage lightly until fully absorbed. The cooling sensation will be most noticeable at this step.
Follow with SPF (AM Only)
In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. This gel cream does not contain UV protection. Wait 1–2 minutes after application before layering sunscreen or makeup.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination-oily, or normal skin
- You struggle with midday shine and enlarged pores
- You want a lightweight moisturizer that won't feel heavy
- You prefer fragrance-free and alcohol-free formulas
- You use this as a base under makeup or SPF
- You live in a warm or humid climate
- You're looking for a summer or hot-weather moisturizer
- You want pore-minimizing hydration without prescription actives
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin needing rich emollients
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You are pregnant and want to fully avoid salicylic acid
- You prefer a silicone-free formula
- You need SPF built into your moisturizer
- You dislike cooling/menthol sensations on skin
- You are extremely sensitive to ferment-derived ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for oily skin. Absorbs instantly with zero greasiness, visibly controls shine throughout the day, and the Sarcosine amino acid helps regulate sebum at its source over time.
Provides balanced, long-lasting hydration without tipping normal skin into oiliness. The refreshing texture feels comfortable in all seasons, making this a great daily go-to moisturizer.
Works well on oily T-zones while providing adequate hydration to drier cheek areas. Some users with very dry patches may want a richer cream on top in winter months.
The formula is too lightweight for dry skin — it lacks the rich emollients, fatty acids, and occlusive ingredients that dry skin needs. Consider the original Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane instead.
The fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula is generally well-tolerated. Patch test recommended due to the ferment extract and low-level salicylic acid. Those with extreme sensitivity to fermented ingredients should proceed with caution.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free, making it appropriate for acne-prone skin. The trace salicylic acid may provide mild pore-clearing benefits. However, not safe for fungal acne — verify your acne type before use.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSInstant Cooling & Shine Control
From the very first application, the Menthoxypropanediol cooling agent delivers a refreshing sensation. Skin feels immediately hydrated, soft, and balanced. Sebum production appears visually reduced within hours of application.
95% noticed immediate freshnessConsistent Hydration & Reduced Greasiness
Skin feels less oily throughout the day. The 24-hour hydration claim becomes more apparent with consistent use — users report fewer instances of mid-afternoon shine and a more balanced complexion throughout the day.
80% reported less midday shineVisibly Minimized Pores
The Sarcosine and Glacial Glycoprotein (Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract) begin to show their full effect on sebum regulation. Pores appear visibly smaller and the skin surface looks smoother and more refined.
72% noticed smaller-looking poresLong-Term Sebum Regulation
With continued daily use, the sebum-regulating actives work cumulatively. Users report that their skin requires less frequent blotting and fewer touch-ups throughout the day. Overall skin texture appears more even and healthy-looking.
65% reported improved skin textureRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely lightweight and non-greasy texture
- Instant cooling sensation on application
- Absorbs almost instantly — ideal for layering
- Effectively controls shine throughout the day
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free (post-2021 formula)
- Non-comedogenic — rarely causes breakouts
- Suitable for men and women
- Available in refillable, eco-friendly packaging
- Works well as a makeup primer base
- Visible pore minimization with consistent use
Criticized
- Not suitable for dry or very dehydrated skin
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- Contains salicylic acid — use caution during pregnancy
- No SPF — sunscreen still required separately
- Contains Isononyl Isononanoate (ester) — FA trigger
- Price point is high relative to ingredient complexity
- Jar packaging (larger size) exposes product to air/bacteria
- Cooling effect may be too intense for some in winter
- Can pill slightly if applied over thick serums
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Hyaluronic acid-based gel cream with a similarly lightweight, oil-free texture and fast absorption. Excellent for oily/normal skin and widely available. Lacks the Glacial Glycoprotein sebum-control technology but provides comparable hydration. Contains Dimethicone for same silky feel. Not fungal acne safe either.
Oil-free, fragrance-free lotion with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. More focused on barrier repair than sebum control. Lighter than Kiehl's in texture but lacks the cooling sensation and pore-minimizing technology. Great fungal-acne safe alternative if that's a concern.
Specifically designed for oily, acne-prone skin with sebum-absorbing ingredients (Sebulyse Technology) for a long-lasting matte finish. Similar price point. More aggressively mattifying than Kiehl's but lacks the cooling gel feel. A strong competitor for those who want maximum shine control.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar PAO symbol (12M) printed on the packaging. After this period, the preservative system may become less effective.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid bathroom storage where steam and humidity can degrade the formula. Room temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F) is ideal.
Available in a screw-top jar (125ml) or a refillable tube format (50ml). The tube format is more hygienic as it limits air and bacteria exposure. 100% post-consumer recycled plastic packaging.
The 50ml (1.7 oz) size is within the TSA 100ml carry-on liquid limit — ideal for travel. The larger 125ml (4.2 oz) size must be checked. Consider decanting into a travel-size container for longer trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) as the last ingredient, indicating it's present at a very low concentration (well under 1%). While topical salicylic acid at trace levels in leave-on products is generally considered low risk, many dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend erring on the side of caution and avoiding BHA-containing products entirely during pregnancy as a precaution. The remainder of the formula (Glycerin, Dimethicone, Tocopheryl Acetate, etc.) is generally regarded as safe. Always consult your healthcare provider before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No — this product is NOT considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains two problematic ingredient types: (1) Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, a ferment-derived ingredient that may feed Malassezia yeast, and (2) Isononyl Isononanoate, a fatty acid ester which is a known trigger for Malassezia-related breakouts. If you have confirmed fungal acne, we recommend switching to a Malassezia-safe gel moisturizer such as CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, or Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion.
Yes, this gel cream is compatible with most active ingredients. Its pH-neutral, alcohol-free formula makes it an excellent moisturizing layer after treatment serums. With retinol or tretinoin: apply this gel cream after your retinoid to soothe and buffer skin — the Glycerin and Dimethicone help reduce potential irritation. With vitamin C: apply vitamin C serum first, allow to absorb, then layer this on top. With AHAs (glycolic, lactic): apply your AHA treatment first, wait a few minutes, then apply this. Note that this product already contains a trace amount of Salicylic Acid (BHA), so additional BHA serums will increase exfoliation — adjust usage frequency accordingly if you have sensitive skin.
This gel cream is specifically formulated for oily to normal skin types and is rated excellent for both. It works well for combination skin that leans oily, especially on the T-zone. It is not recommended for dry or very dehydrated skin — the lightweight gel-cream texture lacks the rich emollients, heavy humectants, and occlusive ingredients needed to adequately moisturize dry skin. For dry skin, consider the original Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane. For combination skin with dry patches, you may want to use this on oily areas and a richer cream on dry zones.
Results vary by concern. Immediate effects (Day 1): The cooling sensation and instant shine control are noticeable from first use. Short-term (1–2 weeks): Consistent 24-hour hydration, reduced mid-day oiliness, and a more balanced complexion become apparent with daily use. Medium-term (3–4 weeks): The sebum-regulating actives — Glacial Glycoprotein (Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract) and Sarcosine — show their cumulative pore-minimizing effect, with visibly smaller and less congested pores. Long-term (6–8 weeks): With consistent daily use, approximately 65% of users in informal surveys reported improved overall skin texture and significantly reduced need for mid-day blotting or powder touch-ups.
This gel cream is your moisturizing step and should be applied after all water-based serums and essences but before sunscreen (in the morning) or as the final step (at night). The correct order is: Cleanser → Toner/Essence → Treatment Serums (vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, etc.) → Eye Cream → This Gel Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). It can be used both morning and evening. In the morning, always follow with SPF 30+ as this product contains no UV protection. A small amount — about the size of a pea to a dime — is sufficient for the entire face and neck.
No — Kiehl's has tested and certified this formula as non-comedogenic, and it carries a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The formula is water-based and oil-free, meaning it contains no heavy plant oils or occlusive butters that could block pores. The silicones (Dimethicone, Dimethiconol) used are non-comedogenic. The primary ingredient of mild concern is Isononyl Isononanoate (comedogenic rating ~2–3), though at its concentration in this formula, most users with oily and acne-prone skin report no pore-clogging issues. Patch testing for 1–2 weeks on a small area is always advisable when introducing any new moisturizer.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — you'll see the open-jar symbol with "12M" printed on the packaging. For the 50ml tube used twice daily (AM + PM), roughly 0.3–0.5g per application, a single tube typically lasts 3–4 months with daily use. The 125ml jar can last 6–10 months with consistent twice-daily use. To maximize shelf life, store the product in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat, and avoid introducing water or bacteria into the jar by always using clean, dry fingertips or a clean spatula for the jar format. If the product changes color, texture, or smell before 12 months, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream is one of the most well-rounded, dermatologist-trusted gel moisturizers for oily and normal skin types. Its 2021 reformulation — now alcohol-free and enriched with Glacial Glycoprotein and Sarcosine — elevated it from a solid basic gel into a genuinely functional, multi-benefit moisturizer. The cooling texture, instant absorption, and effective 24-hour shine control make it an excellent daily driver. It loses a point for not being fungal acne safe, requiring caution during pregnancy due to trace salicylic acid, and for being too light for dry skin. At $34 for 50ml, it's moderately priced for a prestige brand — and widely regarded as worth the investment for those it's designed for. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and want a no-fuss, high-quality daily moisturizer that actually delivers on its oil-control promises, this is an excellent choice.
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
Brightening from 2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isononyl Isononanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antistatic Agent
|
|