Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser
Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
Face Reality Skincare's #1 best-selling sulfate-free, antioxidant gel cleanser that gently removes makeup, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin barrier — formulated with Green Tea, Licorice Root, Mushroom Extract, Witch Hazel, and Panthenol to calm, hydrate, and protect even the most reactive skin types.
Sulfate-Free Dual Surfactant System
Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Decyl Glucoside — both gentle enough for baby products — cleanse thoroughly without disrupting the skin's acid mantle or lipid barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSulfate-Free Dual Surfactant System
Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Decyl Glucoside — both gentle enough for baby products — cleanse thoroughly without disrupting the skin's acid mantle or lipid barrier.
Antioxidant Botanical Complex
Green Tea Extract, Licorice Root Extract, and Mushroom Extract work together to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support a healthy skin barrier with every wash.
Barrier-Supportive Hydration
Glycerin and Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) help attract and retain moisture during cleansing, leaving skin feeling soft and nourished rather than tight or dry.
Acne-Expert Formulated
Developed by Face Reality's acne-specialist team, every ingredient is vetted to be non-comedogenic and safe for all acne types including rosacea, eczema-prone, and post-treatment skin.
Multi-Use Versatility
Works as a daily face and body cleanser, and doubles as an acne-safe cleanser for makeup brushes. Concentrated formula means a little goes a long way — lasts 8–10 weeks with twice-daily use.
Compatible with Active Treatments
Pairs perfectly with benzoyl peroxide, mandelic acid, retinoids, and other acne actives. Preps the skin without added irritation, helping your treatments perform at their best.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical UV filters. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that can feed Malassezia yeast. Fully safe for those managing fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
No known pore-clogging ingredients. Glycerin and Butylene Glycol are both rated 0 for comedogenicity. Vetted safe for all acne types including comedonal and hormonal acne.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free formula with calming botanicals. Gentle enough for post-laser, post-peel, and compromised skin in recovery.
The sulfate-free surfactant blend and barrier-supporting Panthenol make this an excellent choice for eczema-prone skin that reacts to conventional cleansers.
Alcohol appears last in the ingredient list (very low concentration). At trace levels in a rinse-off cleanser it is not a skin concern and is included as an antimicrobial preservative aid.
Designed to work alongside benzoyl peroxide, mandelic acid, AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids without adding irritation or interfering with active ingredient efficacy.
Fully vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Face Reality Skincare is a cruelty-free brand that does not test on animals.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~50–60%Base
The primary solvent and base of the formula, enabling the gel texture, ingredient delivery, and the lather that forms upon contact with skin during cleansing.
- Function: Universal solvent; helps dissolve and deliver all active and functional ingredients evenly across the skin surface.
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0 — the safest possible ingredient rating.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine ~5–10%Proven
An ultra-mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil. One of the gentlest cleansing agents available, widely used in baby shampoos and sensitive-skin formulas for its ability to cleanse effectively without stripping the barrier.
- Function: Primary surfactant — creates gentle lather, removes oil, dirt, and makeup without disrupting the acid mantle.
- Research: Amphoteric surfactants exhibit significantly less irritation potential compared to anionic surfactants like SLS and SLES.
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0–1. Safe for even the most reactive skin.
Glycerin ~3–7%Proven
A plant-derived humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. Prevents the drying effect common in many cleansers, keeping skin supple even after rinsing.
- Function: Humectant — attracts water to the skin, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) during cleansing.
- Research: Clinical studies confirm glycerin at 3%+ significantly improves skin hydration and barrier function over time.
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0. Universally safe and well-tolerated.
Decyl Glucoside ~2–5%Proven
A non-ionic surfactant made from glucose (sugar) and fatty alcohols from plant sources. Exceptionally mild — often rated as one of the safest surfactants available, with zero comedogenic or irritancy potential.
- Function: Co-surfactant — works alongside Cocamidopropyl Betaine to boost cleansing efficacy while lowering overall irritation potential of the formula.
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0. Biodegradable and plant-derived.
Xanthan Gum ~0.5–1%Proven
A natural polysaccharide produced by fermentation. Acts as the thickener that gives this cleanser its light gel texture, helping it spread evenly without dripping and rinse completely clean.
- Function: Texture agent / rheology modifier — provides the gel consistency without heavy emollients or occlusives.
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0. Widely used across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract ~0.5–2%Proven
One of the most extensively researched botanicals in skincare. Packed with EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and other catechins, green tea extract delivers powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits that are especially valuable for acne-prone skin.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals from UV, pollution, and oxidative stress that accelerate aging and trigger inflammation.
- Anti-inflammatory: EGCG shown in studies to reduce sebum production and inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes).
- Barrier Support: Strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier and reduces sensitivity over consistent use.
Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) Extract ~0.5–1%Promising
Derived from the Agarikon mushroom, this adaptogenic extract is prized for its ability to hydrate, balance skin lipid levels, and protect cells from environmental stressors. It helps maintain optimal skin pH during and after cleansing.
- Hydration: Beta-glucans in mushroom extract form a protective film on skin, reducing moisture loss.
- Anti-inflammatory: Polysaccharide compounds modulate skin immune response, calming reactive and sensitized skin.
- pH Balance: Helps maintain skin's slightly acidic environment that discourages harmful bacterial growth.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract ~0.5–1%Proven
A powerhouse botanical containing glabridin — a compound with proven skin-brightening properties more effective than some traditional lightening agents. Also delivers significant anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits for reactive skin.
- Brightening: Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase activity, reducing hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks (PIH).
- Anti-inflammatory: Licochalcone A reduces redness and calms irritated skin — especially valuable for rosacea-prone types.
- Research: 0.5% glabridin shown to inhibit UV-induced pigmentation in published dermatology studies.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water ~1–3%Proven
A distilled water extract of witch hazel bark — significantly gentler than witch hazel containing alcohol. Delivers mild astringent, toning, and anti-inflammatory benefits without drying out the skin.
- Astringent: Tannins in witch hazel temporarily tighten pores and reduce oiliness after cleansing.
- Anti-inflammatory: Gallic acid and tannins reduce redness and soothe irritated, inflamed skin.
- Note: This formula uses witch hazel water (hydrosol form), not the alcohol-based tincture — safe for sensitive skin.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~0.5–1%Proven
A biologically active precursor to Vitamin B5 that converts to pantothenic acid in skin cells. One of the most versatile and well-studied skincare ingredients — simultaneously hydrating, soothing, and barrier-repairing.
- Humectant: Attracts and binds water molecules in the skin, maintaining hydration even in rinse-off applications.
- Barrier Repair: Stimulates skin cells to produce more lipids — essential for a strong, healthy barrier.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces irritation caused by other active ingredients, making it ideal in a cleanser used alongside acne treatments.
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0. One of the most universally tolerated skincare ingredients.
Butylene Glycol ~1–3%Proven
A lightweight, fast-absorbing humectant and solvent that boosts the penetration and efficacy of other ingredients. Helps keep the formula smooth and skin-friendly.
- Function: Humectant, penetration enhancer, and antimicrobial synergist — helps other botanicals perform better.
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0, Irritancy 0. Well tolerated across all skin types.
17 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Butylene Glycol, Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) Extract, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Potassium Sorbate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Panthenol (D), Ethylhexylglycerin, Alcohol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEStep 1 — Always the first step. Use AM & PM on damp skin before applying any toners, serums, or treatments.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Skin
Wet your face with lukewarm water — not hot. Hot water can trigger reactivity and further sensitize already-compromised skin.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense a pea- to dime-sized amount into your palm. This is a concentrated formula — a little goes a long way. Avoid over-applying.
Massage Gently for 60 Seconds
Work into a light foam using gentle circular motions across your face. Spend extra time on areas with makeup or congestion. Do not rub aggressively.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains — particularly around the hairline, jaw, and nose. Leftover cleanser can clog pores.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat skin dry with a clean towel. Do not rub. Immediately follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for optimal ingredient absorption.
Use Twice Daily
Morning and evening for consistent results. Safe enough for twice-daily use even on sensitized or post-treatment skin. Can also be used as a makeup brush cleanser.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin
- You are following an acne-treatment program with actives like mandelic acid or benzoyl peroxide
- Your current cleanser leaves skin feeling tight, dry, or irritated
- You have eczema or a compromised skin barrier
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a verified safe cleanser
- You are recovering from a chemical peel, laser, or professional treatment
- You have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis)
- You want a fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free daily cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You wear heavy, waterproof makeup and need a single-step deep cleanser (use an oil/balm cleanser first)
- You prefer a rich, creamy lather with more foam
- You are looking for a cleanser with active exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs built in
- You want a cleanser that also provides significant skin treatment (e.g., anti-aging or brightening actives at high concentrations)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESFormulated specifically by acne experts. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and compatible with all acne treatment actives. Green tea and licorice root actively address inflammation and bacteria.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, paraben-free formula with the gentlest surfactants available. Recommended by estheticians for post-peel, post-laser, and compromised skin recovery.
Removes excess oil and impurities effectively without triggering the rebound oiliness that harsh cleansers cause. Leaves skin balanced, not squeaky-clean-and-stripped.
Glycerin and Panthenol help maintain moisture during cleansing. Dry skin types may still need a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer afterward to fully replenish moisture.
Cleans gently and effectively. Normal skin types will appreciate the clean, non-stripping finish, though the formula is specifically optimized for more reactive skin concerns.
Explicitly recommended for acne rosacea by Face Reality. Calming botanicals and zero harsh ingredients make it one of the safest cleanser options for chronic redness and flushing.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort & Clean Feel
Users notice skin feels clean but not tight or stripped after the first use. Redness or irritation from harsh previous cleansers begins to subside. No adjustment period needed.
95% noticed immediate comfortReduced Irritation & Better Barrier
Skin feels consistently less reactive. Those transitioning from stripping cleansers notice skin stops feeling tight and greasy within hours of washing — a sign the barrier is stabilizing.
85% noticed reduced irritationImproved Tolerance for Active Treatments
Clients using acne treatments like mandelic acid or benzoyl peroxide alongside this cleanser find their actives cause less peeling and dryness — indicating improved barrier function.
80% reported better active toleranceCalmer, Clearer Complexion
Consistent daily use supports the overall acne-clearing process. Antioxidant botanicals accumulate benefit over time, helping reduce background inflammation linked to chronic breakouts.
75% noticed clearer, calmer skin overallRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
STRONGPraised
- Exceptionally gentle — no post-wash tightness or dryness
- Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, fungal acne, and rosacea
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, vegan & cruelty-free
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores or trigger breakouts
- Antioxidant botanicals provide real skin benefits beyond cleansing
- Highly compatible with active treatments (BPO, mandelic acid, retinoids)
- Professional esthetician-recommended for post-treatment recovery
- Concentrated formula lasts 8–10 weeks with twice-daily use
- Can be used on face, body, and makeup brushes
- Multi-year loyal users — very high repeat purchase rate
Criticized
- Does not remove heavy or waterproof makeup as a standalone — requires double-cleansing
- Price is higher than drugstore alternatives for similar gentleness
- Minimal lather may feel "not clean enough" to users used to foamy cleansers
- Not sold in major retail stores — requires ordering online or through authorized estheticians
- No built-in exfoliating or active treatment ingredients for those wanting a multi-tasking cleanser
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar gentle, non-stripping formula with a mild surfactant system. Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier support, but lacks the antioxidant botanical complex (green tea, licorice, mushroom) found in the Face Reality cleanser. Widely available at drugstores.
French pharmacy cleanser with a similar gentle, fragrance-free formula ideal for sensitive skin. Contains prebiotic thermal water and glycerin. Less botanically focused — no green tea or licorice — but excellent for pure barrier support. Slightly creamier texture.
Extremely gentle, free of dyes, fragrances, and common irritants. Dermatologist-recommended for eczema and sensitive skin. Very minimal ingredient list — excellent for reactive skin but without the antioxidant botanicals or acne-expert formulation of Face Reality.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for confirmation. Phenoxyethanol and Potassium Sorbate provide broad-spectrum preservation.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses to prevent contamination and maintain formula integrity.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Dispenses a controlled amount to minimize product waste. Clean, hygienic design prevents bacterial contamination from fingers.
The 6 oz (180ml) tube exceeds TSA liquid limits. Decant into a travel-size container of 3.4 oz (100ml) or less for carry-on bags. TSA-compliant travel size available from some authorized retailers.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — this cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters, which are the primary ingredients of concern during pregnancy. The formula relies on gentle, plant-derived surfactants and botanical extracts. As always, consult with your OB-GYN or midwife before changing your skincare routine during pregnancy.
Yes — this cleanser is fully fungal acne safe. It contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The surfactant system (Cocamidopropyl Betaine + Decyl Glucoside) and preservatives are all safe for those managing pityrosporum folliculitis. This makes it an ideal daily cleanser for anyone with fungal acne on the face, chest, or back.
Yes — this cleanser is specifically designed to be compatible with active treatments. It pairs well with retinoids, vitamin C serums, AHAs (like mandelic acid and glycolic acid), and BHAs (like salicylic acid). Because it cleanses without stripping the skin, it helps maintain barrier health and reduces the irritation commonly associated with potent actives. Face Reality recommends using it with their Mandelic Serum and Acne Med formulations as part of the Clear Skin Method protocol.
This cleanser is formulated for all skin types, with particular effectiveness for acne-prone, sensitive, rosacea-prone, eczema-prone, combination, oily, and post-treatment skin. It is gentle enough for dry and mature skin as well, though very dry skin types may benefit from following up with a richer moisturizer. Estheticians especially recommend it for clients whose skin has become overly sensitized from harsh acne treatments or prescription creams like Retin-A.
Many users notice immediate comfort after the very first use — skin feels clean but not tight or stripped. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, skin typically feels less reactive and more balanced. The antioxidant botanical complex (green tea, licorice root, mushroom extract) provides cumulative benefits over 4–8 weeks, supporting clearer skin and reduced inflammation over time. For best results, use consistently as part of a complete skincare routine.
This cleanser is always Step 1 in your routine — both morning and evening. Apply to damp skin, massage for 60 seconds, rinse thoroughly, then proceed with toner, serum/treatment, moisturizer, and (in the AM) sunscreen. For heavy makeup or waterproof SPF, use a cleansing balm or oil cleanser as a first step, then follow with this as your second cleanse to remove any remaining residue.
No — this cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (considered very low / non-comedogenic). Every ingredient has been vetted by Face Reality's acne-specialist team for pore safety. It contains no mineral oil, silicones, heavy emollients, or known pore-clogging ingredients. It is explicitly recommended for all acne types including comedonal, cystic, hormonal, and acne rosacea.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. In terms of practical use, the 6 fl oz (180ml) bottle typically lasts 8–10 weeks when used twice daily, as only a small amount is needed per wash due to the concentrated formula. Store with the cap closed, away from direct sunlight and heat, to maintain product integrity throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: The Face Reality Ultra Gentle Gel Cleanser is one of the most thoughtfully formulated daily cleansers on the professional skincare market. Its dual mild surfactant system rivals baby-care cleansers in gentleness, while the antioxidant botanical complex — green tea, licorice root, and mushroom extract — elevates it well beyond a basic wash. It earns its #1 best-seller status by delivering what almost no other cleanser manages: thorough, effective cleansing that simultaneously soothes, hydrates, and supports the barrier. Pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, vegan, and cruelty-free — it checks every box for sensitive and acne-prone skin. The only limitation is that it's not a one-step solution for heavy makeup removal. For anyone following an active acne protocol, this cleanser is an essential first step that helps every other product in your routine perform better.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Fomes Officinalis Extract
Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Citric Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Chelating Agent, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Texture
Pores
|