Wake Up Honey Eye Cream
Wake Up Honey Eye Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Farmacy's clinically-proven brightening eye cream that instantly reduces the appearance of dark circles, visibly depuffs, and smooths fine lines — powered by 3% Vitamin C (THD Ascorbate), encapsulated caffeine, upcycled cranberry peptide, and a proprietary buckwheat honey blend. Dermatologist tested and ophthalmologist approved.
Instant Brightening with 3% THD Vitamin C
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate is a lipid-soluble, oil-stable form of vitamin C that penetrates the skin barrier more effectively than standard L-ascorbic acid. At 3%, it reduces dark circle intensity and boosts radiance in minutes.
Texture & feel
SENSORYInstant Brightening with 3% THD Vitamin C
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate is a lipid-soluble, oil-stable form of vitamin C that penetrates the skin barrier more effectively than standard L-ascorbic acid. At 3%, it reduces dark circle intensity and boosts radiance in minutes.
Encapsulated Caffeine for Depuffing
Micro-encapsulated caffeine penetrates deeper into the delicate under-eye skin to constrict blood vessels, reduce fluid accumulation, and visibly diminish puffiness faster than non-encapsulated forms.
Upcycled Cranberry Peptide (Tridecapeptide-1)
Derived from cranberry, this bioactive peptide supports collagen synthesis and targets crow's feet and fine lines over time. Sustainably sourced from cranberry processing by-products.
Proprietary Buckwheat Honey Blend
Honey extract, propolis extract, and royal jelly work synergistically as humectants and antioxidants, locking in moisture, soothing inflammation, and protecting the delicate eye-area skin barrier.
Ceramide NP for Barrier Repair
Ceramide NP replenishes the lipid barrier of the thin, sensitive periorbital skin, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and supporting long-term resilience against environmental stressors.
Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid draws moisture from the environment into skin, delivering immediate plumping and hydration to fine lines. Works alongside glycerin and betaine for sustained all-day moisture retention.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, hydroquinone, or high-dose salicylic acid are present. However, the formula contains propolis extract and royal jelly extract, which are bee products that some pregnancy guidelines advise discussing with a doctor. Honey-derived actives are generally considered low-risk, but consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
This formula contains several fatty acid esters (Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Diisostearyl Malate, Glyceryl Dioleate, Triolein, Lecithin) and honey-based ferments that may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne or periorbital seborrhoeic dermatitis.
The formula is lightweight with a low overall comedogenic profile. Shea butter rates 0–2, and Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is rated 1. Suitable for most skin types, though those with very oily eyelids should patch test first.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, dye-free, and ophthalmologist approved. Allantoin and betaine provide soothing benefits. Patch testing recommended for very reactive skin types.
THD ascorbate (the vitamin C form used) is oil-soluble and highly stable — it does not destabilize easily when layered with other actives. You can safely use this alongside vitamin C serums in your routine.
This product contains no retinoids. If you use a retinol eye cream, use it at night and Wake Up Honey Eye Cream in the morning, or alternate evenings to minimize potential sensitivity overlap.
Clinically confirmed to be safe for the periorbital zone including eyelids up to the brow bone — a rarity for eye creams with active vitamin C.
Contains honey extract, propolis extract, and royal jelly extract. Those with known bee product allergies should avoid this formula or consult an allergist before use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (THD Ascorbate) ~3%Proven
A lipid-soluble, oil-stable derivative of vitamin C that penetrates the skin barrier more effectively than water-soluble L-ascorbic acid. Clinically shown to brighten dark circles, even skin tone, and support collagen synthesis with minimal irritation potential.
- Stability: Highly stable in formulations; does not oxidize quickly like standard ascorbic acid
- Penetration: Lipophilic structure allows deeper dermal penetration than water-soluble forms
- Action: Inhibits melanin synthesis (tyrosinase inhibition) and neutralizes free radicals
- Clinical: 100% of 35 subjects showed brighter under-eye area after 1 application (brand clinical data)
Caffeine (Encapsulated) ~0.5–1%Proven
Micro-encapsulated caffeine penetrates the periorbital skin more efficiently than standard caffeine. Acts as a vasoconstrictor to reduce blood vessel dilation beneath the eyes, diminishing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. Also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mechanism: Phosphodiesterase inhibition promotes lipolysis in fat cells contributing to under-eye bags
- Encapsulation benefit: Microencapsulation delays release for sustained effect vs. free caffeine
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces prostaglandin-related puffiness pathways
Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract / Tridecapeptide-1 Active doseProven
Upcycled cranberry peptide (Tridecapeptide-1) is derived from cranberry processing by-products. This bioactive peptide signals fibroblasts to increase collagen and elastin production, targeting the structural causes of crow's feet and fine lines over time. The cranberry extract also delivers antioxidant polyphenols.
- Peptide mechanism: Messenger peptide stimulates ECM (extracellular matrix) protein synthesis
- Sustainability: Upcycled from cranberry agricultural by-products — lower environmental footprint
- Antioxidant: Cranberry proanthocyanidins neutralize UV-induced free radicals
Honey Extract + Propolis Extract + Royal Jelly Extract BlendProven
Farmacy's proprietary buckwheat honey complex combines three complementary bee-derived actives. Honey extract is a multi-functional humectant and antimicrobial. Propolis has documented anti-inflammatory and wound-healing activity. Royal jelly contains fatty acids (10-HDA), proteins, and B vitamins that nourish and revitalize skin cells.
- Honey: Humectant with osmotic antimicrobial properties; supports skin microbiome balance
- Propolis: Rich in flavonoids (pinocembrin, galangin) with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
- Royal Jelly: Contains 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), shown to support collagen synthesis
Hyaluronic Acid Active doseProven
A naturally occurring polysaccharide that can hold up to 1,000× its weight in water. Provides immediate visible plumping of fine lines and long-lasting hydration to the delicate under-eye area. Works synergistically with glycerin and betaine for a layered moisture effect.
- Mechanism: Hygroscopic molecule draws moisture from the environment and deeper dermis
- Effect: Visibly reduces the depth of fine lines through hydration-induced volume
Ceramide NP Active doseProven
A skin-identical lipid that is one of the primary components of the stratum corneum. Replenishes depleted ceramide levels in thin periorbital skin, strengthening the barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and protecting against environmental irritants.
- Structure: N-(nonanoyl)-sphingosine — matches endogenous ceramide for optimal integration
- Benefit: Documented barrier repair in clinical studies on compromised skin
Astaxanthin + Ubiquinone (CoQ10) + Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Antioxidant ComplexProven
A triple antioxidant shield. Astaxanthin (from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae) is one of the most potent naturally occurring antioxidants — up to 6,000× stronger than vitamin C by some metrics. Ubiquinone (CoQ10) supports mitochondrial energy and reduces oxidative stress. Tocopherol provides lipid-phase antioxidant protection.
- Astaxanthin: Crosses both outer and inner cell membranes; quenches singlet oxygen and free radicals
- CoQ10: Shown to reduce periorbital wrinkle depth in clinical studies
- Vitamin E: Synergistically regenerates vitamin C activity for sustained protection
Allantoin ~0.2–0.5%Proven
A well-documented soothing and skin-conditioning agent derived from the comfrey plant. Promotes cell proliferation and regeneration, accelerates skin healing, and reduces sensitivity. Ideal for the fragile eye area where irritation is common with actives.
- Keratolytic: Mild keratolytic effect promotes cell turnover and smooths texture
- Soothing: Proven anti-irritant that counterbalances the potential sensitizing effects of vitamin C
Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil Active dosePromising
Sea buckthorn oil is exceptionally rich in carotenoids, flavonoids, vitamins (C, E, K, B12), and rare palmitoleic acid. Supports skin regeneration and has anti-inflammatory properties. Its natural orange-red pigment also contributes to a brightening visual effect in the under-eye area.
- Fatty acids: Uniquely high in omega-7 (palmitoleic acid), which supports epithelial health
- Carotenoids: Natural beta-carotene and lycopene content adds to the antioxidant pool
Citrus Aurantium Amara + Sinensis + Reticulata Extracts Brightening BlendPromising
A trio of citrus fruit extracts (bitter orange, sweet orange, and tangerine) providing natural vitamin C precursors, hesperidin, and flavonoids. Contribute to brightening, mild exfoliation support, and antioxidant activity.
- Hesperidin: Bioflavonoid that strengthens capillary walls — relevant for vascular dark circles
- Synergy: Complements the THD ascorbate for a multi-pathway brightening approach
47+ ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Diisostearyl Malate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Cetearyl Alcohol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Cetearyl Olivate, Pentylene Glycol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Unsaponifiables, Sorbitan Olivate, Boron Nitride, Caffeine, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide NP, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Honey Extract, Propolis Extract, Royal Jelly Extract, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Sinensis Peel Extract, Citrus Reticulata (Tangerine) Fruit Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Tridecapeptide-1, Betaine, Triolein, Hydroxyacetophenone, Tocopheryl Acetate, Astaxanthin, Allantoin, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Tocopherol, Ubiquinone, Lecithin, Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract, Glyceryl Dioleate, Sclerotium Gum, Hexamidine Diisethionate, Sodium Phytate, Citric Acid, Lactic Acid, Malic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after your moisturizer as the last skincare step before SPF (AM) or as the final treatment step at night. Farmacy recommends applying after moisturizer — not before — to seal in the active benefits.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Cleansed Skin
Begin with freshly cleansed, toned, and moisturized skin. The eye area should be dry but not tight. Complete all serum and moisturizer steps before applying.
Dispense a Pea-Size Amount
Use a pea-size amount (approximately 0.1–0.15 ml) split between both eyes. This is enough to treat the full periorbital area. Avoid over-applying — more product does not equal better results and may cause milia.
Tap & Smooth Around the Eye Zone
Using your ring finger (lightest pressure), tap and gently smooth the cream onto the under-eye, outer eye area (crow's feet zone), and up to the eyelid toward the brow bone. Always use a gentle tapping motion — never rub or drag.
Keep 3mm Away from the Lash Line
Do not apply directly on the waterline or within 3mm of the lash line. Body heat will naturally migrate the product to where it's needed. Applying too close can cause stinging or watery eyes.
Use AM & PM Daily
For best results, apply twice daily — morning and evening. In the morning, follow with SPF. At night, it works as a targeted treatment while skin undergoes its natural overnight repair cycle. Consistent twice-daily use is key for the cranberry peptide's anti-aging benefits.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with dark circles (especially pigmentation-related)
- You experience morning puffiness and under-eye bags
- You want to address early crow's feet and fine lines
- You prefer a fragrance-free, clean formula for sensitive eyes
- You wear makeup and need an eye cream that layers smoothly underneath
- You want to combine brightening + anti-aging + hydration in one step
- You have normal, dry, combination, or sensitive skin types
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have active fungal acne or seborrhoeic dermatitis around the eyes
- You have a known allergy to bee products (honey, propolis, royal jelly)
- You are looking for heavy-duty retinol-based anti-aging treatment
- Your dark circles are purely vascular — this works best on pigmentation-related darkness
- You have very oily skin and prefer a gel or serum texture
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match — the lightweight cream texture delivers balanced hydration without heaviness. The full vitamin C brightening and caffeine depuffing benefits are maximized on normal skin.
Shea butter, honey extract, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides provide solid hydration. Very dry skin types may want to layer a richer eye cream at night on top for extra occlusion.
The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula won't add shine. However, those with very oily eyelids may find the cream slightly heavy under heavy makeup. Patch test recommended.
Fragrance-free, allantoin-enriched formula with ophthalmologist approval makes it suitable for most sensitive skin. Bee product allergy and citrus sensitivity are the only real concerns to screen for.
Outstanding combination of Vitamin C + peptide + CoQ10 + astaxanthin targets multiple aging pathways simultaneously. Ideal for those prioritizing collagen support, crow's feet reduction, and brightening in one product.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Instant Brightening & Depuffing
The boron nitride (optical diffuser), caffeine, and THD ascorbate work immediately to reflect light and temporarily reduce puffiness. Under-eye area looks more radiant and rested within minutes of application.
100% showed brighter under-eye after 1 use (clinical data)Visible Fine Line Reduction & Hydration Improvement
With consistent twice-daily use, hyaluronic acid and ceramide support plumper, more hydrated under-eye skin. Early smoothing of superficial fine lines due to improved hydration and barrier function.
91% showed less visible fine lines after 1 application (clinical data)Improved Dark Circle Intensity & Texture
Regular use of THD vitamin C begins to visibly reduce pigmentation-type dark circles as melanin synthesis is inhibited over time. Skin texture under the eye appears smoother. Sea buckthorn and antioxidant complex visibly improve skin quality.
~80% of users report visible dark circle improvement (community data)Crow's Feet Reduction & Firmness
The upcycled cranberry peptide (Tridecapeptide-1) and CoQ10 work over time to support collagen and elastin production. Measurable reduction in crow's feet depth and improved periorbital skin firmness with continued use.
~70% notice crow's feet improvement at 8+ weeksRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven instant brightening — visible results after first use
- Fragrance-free and ophthalmologist approved — safe for most sensitive eyes
- 3% stable THD Vitamin C — effective and gentle form of vitamin C
- Multi-benefit: brightening + depuffing + hydration + anti-aging in one step
- Luxurious, silky texture that layers beautifully under makeup
- Unique upcycled cranberry peptide adds sustainable anti-aging angle
- No fragrance, parabens, mineral oil, or silicones — very clean formula
- Safe on eyelids and brow bone — rare for vitamin C eye creams
Criticized
- 15ml for $45 — among the more expensive eye creams by volume
- Not ideal for purely vascular/structural dark circles — best for pigmentation type
- Contains bee allergens (honey, propolis, royal jelly) — not safe for all
- Not fungal-acne safe due to fatty acid esters and honey ferments
- Some users report mild stinging when applied too close to the lash line
- Jar packaging may expose formula to air and bacteria over time
- Texture may feel slightly heavy under dry-finish or matte foundations
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares the eye-area brightening and anti-aging mission but uses retinol instead of vitamin C as the primary active. Excellent for wrinkle reduction, but harsher and not safe for daytime use. No honey or peptide complex.
Shea butter base with vitamin E and brightening botanicals. Much more affordable, but lacks THD vitamin C, encapsulated caffeine, peptides, or the antioxidant depth of Farmacy. Good for hydration basics at a fraction of the cost.
Clean formula with caffeine, vitamin C, niacinamide, and a rollerball applicator for depuffing massage. Serum texture is lighter than Wake Up Honey. Niacinamide offers a different but complementary dark-circle mechanism (reduces melanin transfer).
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Drunk Elephant A-Shaba Complex Eye Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging for confirmation. Due to the vitamin C content, use within this window to ensure potency.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Optional: store in the refrigerator for an extra depuffing cooling effect — particularly pleasant in the morning. Avoid extreme temperatures that can destabilize the vitamin C actives.
Hexagonal glass-like jar with a spatula applicator. The jar design is iconic but exposes product to air each time it is opened. Use the included spatula (not fingers) to minimize contamination and extend shelf life. Farmacy accepts empty packaging returns through their Empties recycling program.
Yes — 15ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. The sealed jar is secure for carry-on travel. Consider a travel spatula to maintain hygiene while on the go.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, high-dose salicylic acid, or chemical sunscreen filters — the main ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. However, it does contain bee-derived ingredients including propolis extract and royal jelly extract. Propolis is generally considered safe topically, but some pregnancy guidelines advise caution with bee products as a precaution. The vitamin C (THD ascorbate) used is considered safe. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as individual sensitivities can vary.
No — this product is not considered malassezia (fungal acne) safe. The formula contains several ingredients that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast: Coco-Caprylate/Caprate (a fatty acid ester), Diisostearyl Malate, Glyceryl Dioleate, Triolein, Lecithin, and honey-derived ferments. If you are prone to fungal acne or periorbital seborrhoeic dermatitis, we recommend choosing a fungal-acne-safe eye cream and consulting a dermatologist for guidance on suitable alternatives.
Yes, with some considerations. The THD ascorbate in this formula is an oil-soluble, highly stable vitamin C that layers well with other skincare without destabilizing. You can safely use it alongside a vitamin C face serum. For retinol: use this eye cream in the morning and your retinol eye treatment at night, or alternate to minimize irritation potential around the delicate eye area. For AHAs/BHAs: these are not typically applied in the eye area, so direct layering is unlikely — but avoid getting exfoliant-based toners or serums too close to the periorbital zone before applying this cream.
Wake Up Honey Eye Cream is best suited for normal, dry, combination, and mature skin types. Its lightweight-but-nourishing cream texture provides enough hydration for dry skin without overwhelming oily skin types. It is particularly well-suited for those with mature skin seeking a multi-tasking formula targeting dark circles, fine lines, and loss of firmness simultaneously. Sensitive skin types generally do well with it given the fragrance-free, ophthalmologist-approved formulation, but those with bee product allergies or known citrus sensitivities should avoid it.
Immediate results: The optical diffusers (boron nitride) and encapsulated caffeine provide visible brightening and depuffing within minutes of the first application. Clinical testing showed 100% of subjects had a brighter under-eye area after just one use. Short-term (1–2 weeks): Consistent twice-daily use shows meaningful improvement in fine lines and hydration levels. Medium-term (4–6 weeks): Vitamin C's melanin-inhibiting action begins to reduce pigmentation-type dark circle intensity. Long-term (8–12 weeks): The cranberry peptide and antioxidant complex deliver visible improvement in crow's feet depth and overall periorbital skin firmness with continued use.
Farmacy recommends applying Wake Up Honey Eye Cream after your moisturizer — making it the last skincare step before sunscreen in the morning routine. The correct order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Wake Up Honey Eye Cream → SPF (AM only). This placement is intentional: applying the eye cream after moisturizer helps seal in the active benefits of the formula. In the evening, apply it as the final skincare step after your night cream or facial oil. Use AM and PM for best results.
The overall comedogenic rating of Wake Up Honey Eye Cream is approximately 2/5, which is considered low to moderate. The main emollient base uses Coco-Caprylate/Caprate (comedogenic rating: 1) and shea butter (rating: 0–2), which are generally well-tolerated. The formula is not marketed as non-comedogenic on all official channels, but it is lightweight enough that most skin types tolerate it well around the eye area. Those with very oily eyelids or a history of milia (small white bumps under the eyes) should patch test and start with once-daily use to assess tolerance.
The Period After Opening (PAO) for Wake Up Honey Eye Cream is 12 months, indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. Using a pea-size amount (approximately 0.1–0.15ml) twice daily, a 15ml jar will last approximately 50–75 days with strict twice-daily use. To maximize shelf life: always use the included spatula rather than your fingers (to prevent contamination), keep the lid tightly closed when not in use, store away from heat and direct sunlight, and consider refrigeration for both longevity and a cooling depuffing effect.
Verdict: Farmacy Wake Up Honey Eye Cream is a well-formulated, multi-tasking eye cream that delivers on its core promises of instant brightening and depuffing, with genuine long-term anti-aging benefits from its unique combination of 3% THD Vitamin C, encapsulated caffeine, upcycled cranberry peptide, ceramides, and a powerful antioxidant complex. The fragrance-free, ophthalmologist-approved formula stands out in the crowded eye cream market for its thoughtful ingredient science and clean ethos. The primary caveats are the premium price-per-ml ratio, the not-insignificant number of potential allergens from bee-derived actives, and the fact that purely vascular dark circles may not respond as dramatically as pigmentation-based ones. For those seeking a clean, clinically proven, farm-fresh brightening eye cream with visible instant and cumulative results, this is among the best in its class.
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 11 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 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 |
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Diisostearyl Malate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant
|
|