Product Description
Product overview
Epaderm Cream by Mölnlycke is a clinically proven 2-in-1 emollient and skin cleanser formulated with pharmaceutical-grade paraffins and glycerine. Developed by dermatologists and recommended by GPs, it deeply moisturises and softens skin while reinforcing the natural barrier — providing effective relief for eczema, psoriasis, and all dry skin conditions. Suitable for all ages, from newborns to adults.
Occlusive Barrier Protection
Pharmaceutical-grade liquid paraffin and yellow soft paraffin create a protective film on skin, significantly reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and locking in essential moisture.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOcclusive Barrier Protection
Pharmaceutical-grade liquid paraffin and yellow soft paraffin create a protective film on skin, significantly reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and locking in essential moisture.
Humectant Hydration
Plant-derived Glycerine BP at 5% w/w actively draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum, boosting surface hydration from within.
2-in-1 Cleanser & Moisturiser
Apply directly to skin as a leave-on emollient, or lather under warm water to use as a soap-free skin cleanser — eliminating the need for drying soaps or shower gels.
Safe for All Ages including Babies
Clinically tested and gentle enough for newborns, children, and adults alike. Free from steroids, fragrances, SLS, parabens, and colouring agents that commonly irritate sensitive skin.
Clinically Proven Performance
A published clinical study (PMC8292949) confirmed significant improvements in skin hydration, softness, and reduced itching (pruritus) after just 2 weeks of use.
GP & Dermatologist Recommended
Prescribed on the NHS for eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin conditions. Developed by dermatologists and approved by the British National Formulary (BNF) as a first-line emollient.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical actives of concern. Pharmaceutical-grade paraffins and glycerine are considered safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Emulsifying Wax NF (which includes Polysorbate 60) and Cetearyl Alcohol — both fatty acid-derived ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne flares. Not recommended if you have fungal acne.
Liquid paraffin and soft paraffin are rated 0-2 on the comedogenic scale. Cetearyl Alcohol is rated 2. Overall risk of pore-clogging is low for most skin types, but those very prone to breakouts should monitor closely.
P-Chloro-M-Cresol (Chlorocresol) is used as a preservative. Rare sensitivity reactions have been reported. If you have a known sensitivity to chlorocresol, consider paraffin-free alternatives such as Epaderm Ointment (chlorocresol-free).
Paraffin-based emollients present a fire risk. Clothing and bedding with dried-on product can catch fire easily. Do not smoke or go near naked flames after application. This is a standard caution for all paraffin emollients.
Epaderm Cream is commonly prescribed alongside topical corticosteroids. Apply the steroid first and allow it to absorb for at least 20–30 minutes before applying the emollient to avoid diluting the steroid's effectiveness.
Free from the most common skin irritants: fragrance, SLS, parabens, colouring agents, and steroids. Has a hypoallergenic formulation profile suitable for very reactive and sensitive skin types.
As a pure emollient with no active ingredients, Epaderm Cream is compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, and all other skincare actives. Apply after actives have fully absorbed into the skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Purified Water EP) ~50–55%Proven
The primary vehicle in this water-based emollient formulation. Purified Water EP meets European Pharmacopoeia standards for pharmaceutical purity — free of mineral ions and microorganisms. Acts as a solvent, helps deliver other ingredients to the skin, and contributes to the cream's lightweight, spreadable texture.
- Function: Solvent, vehicle, hydration base
- Standard: European Pharmacopoeia (EP) grade — pharmaceutical quality
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — non-comedogenic
Paraffinum Liquidum (Liquid Paraffin Ph. Eur.) ~20–25%Proven
Highly refined mineral oil derived from petroleum, meeting European Pharmacopoeia standards. One of the most effective and extensively studied occlusive emollients. Creates a lightweight film on the skin's surface that dramatically reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping skin hydrated for longer. Clinically confirmed: a 2017 review of cosmetic mineral oils concluded they present no risk to consumers.
- Function: Occlusive emollient, barrier repair, skin softening
- Comedogenicity: 0–2/5 (non-comedogenic in clinical studies)
- Clinical data: 2005 study confirmed mineral oil is non-comedogenic in humans
- TEWL Reduction: Significantly reduces moisture loss from the stratum corneum
Paraffin (Yellow Soft Paraffin BP) ~5–10%Proven
Also known as petrolatum or petroleum jelly, Yellow Soft Paraffin BP is a semi-solid blend of hydrocarbons. It is one of the most effective occlusive agents in dermatology, creating a thick physical barrier on the skin surface. The BP (British Pharmacopoeia) grade indicates pharmaceutical-quality purity. Clinical studies confirm it helps repair skin barrier function and reduces irritation in atopic dermatitis.
- Function: Occlusive emollient, barrier protectant, skin softening
- Comedogenicity: 0–2/5
- Grade: British Pharmacopoeia (BP) — pharmaceutical standard
- TEWL Reduction: Among the most effective occlusives in clinical use
Emulsifying Wax NF ~5–8%Proven
A pharmaceutical-grade emulsifier composed of approximately two-thirds Cetearyl Alcohol and one-third Polysorbate 60. The NF (National Formulary) designation means it meets standardised composition requirements. Critical to Epaderm Cream's stable, homogeneous texture — it keeps the oil and water phases uniformly blended without separation.
- Function: Emulsifier — keeps oil and water phases blended
- Contains: Cetearyl Alcohol (~67%) + Polysorbate 60 (~33%)
- Standard: National Formulary (NF) grade
Cetearyl Alcohol ~3–5%Proven
A fatty alcohol mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohol — not a drying or irritating alcohol. Widely used in dermatology as a safe emollient and emulsion stabiliser. Provides the cream's smooth, soft-feel texture. Studies confirm Cetearyl Alcohol is non-toxic, non-irritating, and may actually help reduce TEWL by reinforcing the skin barrier lipid layers.
- Function: Emollient, emulsifier, texture agent, emulsion stabiliser
- Irritancy: 1/5 — generally very well tolerated
- Comedogenicity: 2/5 — low risk
Hydroxystearyl Cetyl Ether ~1–3%Promising
Part of the Emulsifying Wax NF system (Macrogol Cetostearyl Ether 22). A polyethylene glycol ether of cetostearyl alcohol that acts as an additional emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent. Helps stabilise the formulation and contributes to the smooth, non-greasy skin feel that distinguishes Epaderm Cream from heavier ointments.
- Function: Co-emulsifier, emulsion stabiliser, skin conditioning
- Also known as: Macrogol Cetostearyl Ether 22 (BP name)
P-Chloro-M-Cresol (Chlorocresol) <0.1%Proven
A phenol-based antimicrobial preservative used at very low concentrations to protect the formulation from microbial contamination and extend shelf life. It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi at the concentrations used. While generally well tolerated, rare contact sensitivity reactions have been documented in individuals with phenol hypersensitivity.
- Function: Antimicrobial preservative
- Concentration: Very low (<0.1%)
- Sensitivity: Rare contact allergy possible in sensitised individuals
Glycerin (Glycerine BP) ~5%Proven
Plant-derived humectant used at a clinically meaningful 5% w/w concentration, as confirmed in the Epaderm clinical trial. Glycerine attracts water molecules from the environment and from deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum, actively boosting skin hydration. Unlike occlusives alone, glycerine provides genuine moisturisation through water-attracting hygroscopic action. One of the most extensively researched and validated skin-hydrating ingredients in dermatology.
- Function: Humectant — attracts and retains water in the stratum corneum
- Concentration: 5% w/w (clinically confirmed)
- Source: Plant-based (as specified by Epaderm)
- Clinical evidence: Published study confirmed skin hydration improvements at 2 and 4 weeks
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — non-comedogenic
8 ingredients
Water (Purified Water EP), Paraffinum Liquidum (Liquid Paraffin Ph. Eur.), Paraffin (Yellow Soft Paraffin BP), Emulsifying Wax NF (Cetomacrogol Emulsifying Wax BP — contains Cetostearyl Alcohol and Macrogol Cetostearyl Ether 22), Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydroxystearyl Cetyl Ether, P-Chloro-M-Cresol (Chlorocresol), Glycerin (Glycerine BP)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last moisturising step before sunscreen in the morning, or as the final step at night. When using with topical steroids, apply the steroid first and wait 20–30 minutes before applying Epaderm Cream.
How to use
HOW TO USEWash and Gently Pat Skin Dry
Ideally use Epaderm Cream itself as your cleanser/soap substitute. Gently pat skin until slightly damp — applying emollient to damp skin helps seal in extra moisture.
Dispense a Small Amount
Use the pump dispenser to dispense a small amount onto your hand. A little goes a long way — start with a pea-sized amount and build up as needed based on the area and dryness of your skin.
Apply in Downward Strokes
Apply to affected areas using smooth, downward strokes in the direction of hair growth. This technique reduces the risk of folliculitis (hair follicle blockage/irritation) — a tip widely recommended by dermatologists for emollient use.
Allow to Absorb Fully
Allow approximately 60 seconds for the cream to absorb. The non-greasy formula absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy residue, making it suitable for both daytime and nighttime use.
Reapply as Frequently as Needed
There is no limit to how much Epaderm Cream you can use. For eczema and psoriasis management, reapply 3–4 times per day or whenever skin feels tight, dry, or itchy. For general moisturising, apply once or twice daily.
Use as a Soap-Free Skin Cleanser (Optional)
Dispense a small amount onto your hand, lather under warm water, and use as a normal soap substitute. This removes surface impurities without stripping the skin's natural oils — recommended by NICE guidelines for dry skin conditions.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You suffer from eczema, atopic dermatitis, or psoriasis
- You have moderate to severe dry or very dry skin
- You need an emollient safe for babies, children, and the whole family
- You want a fragrance-free, steroid-free, SLS-free formula
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe moisturiser
- You prefer a lighter, non-greasy cream over heavy ointments
- You want a 2-in-1 product that doubles as a soap substitute
- You need a GP- or dermatologist-recommended product
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — Polysorbate 60 may worsen it
- You have a known sensitivity or allergy to chlorocresol
- You have very oily or acne-prone skin — heavier occlusive formula may not suit you
- You prefer natural, vegan, or paraffin-free formulas
- You need anti-ageing actives (retinol, peptides) — this is a pure emollient
- You require very intensive overnight barrier repair (consider Epaderm Ointment instead)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe ideal match. Pharmaceutical-grade paraffins and 5% glycerine deliver powerful occlusive and humectant moisturisation for severely dehydrated or flaky skin.
Clinically proven and NHS-prescribed for exactly these conditions. Soothes itching, repairs the skin barrier, and reduces flare-up frequency with regular use.
Free from the top known sensitisers (fragrance, SLS, parabens, lanolin). Exceptionally well tolerated. Patch test recommended if sensitive to chlorocresol.
Works well for normal to combination skin needing extra barrier support, especially in winter or after exposure to harsh environments. May feel slightly heavy on the T-zone.
The occlusive paraffin base may feel too rich for oily skin. Comedogenic rating of 2/5 poses low but possible risk. Best used on body rather than face for oily skin types.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEImmediate Soothing & Comfort
Upon first application, the combination of liquid paraffin and glycerine provides an immediate reduction in tightness, dryness, and discomfort. The non-greasy texture absorbs within 60 seconds, leaving skin visibly softer.
95% noticed immediate comfortReduced Itching & Improved Softness
With consistent twice-daily application, pruritus (itching) typically begins to diminish noticeably. Skin texture improves as the barrier is reinforced and TEWL is reduced. Flaky or scaling patches begin to smooth out.
82% reported reduced itchingClinically Measurable Hydration Improvement
The published clinical study using MoistureMeterEpiD measured statistically significant improvements in skin hydration and softness at the 2-week mark. ODS (Overall Dry Skin) scores improved meaningfully.
88% showed measurable hydration increaseSustained Barrier Repair & Flare Reduction
The 4-week clinical endpoint showed continued and sustained improvements in all measured parameters — hydration, softness, and reduced itch intensity. Regular users report fewer eczema flare-ups and reduced reliance on topical steroids.
91% reported improved overall skin conditionMaintenance & Long-Term Skin Health
Long-term users (months to years) report sustained improvement in baseline skin condition, with many using Epaderm Cream as their permanent daily moisturiser. The formula is designed for continuous, unrestricted use.
Long-term users: significantly fewer dry skin episodesRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven to improve skin hydration within 2 weeks
- NHS-prescribed and GP/dermatologist recommended
- Suitable for all ages including newborns
- Effective 2-in-1 moisturiser and soap substitute
- Free from fragrance, SLS, parabens, steroids, and colouring
- Fast absorbing, non-greasy formula for daytime use
- Excellent value — large pump formats available
- No limit on how much or how often you can apply
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Reduces itch and soothes eczema flare-ups effectively
Criticized
- Contains chlorocresol preservative (rare sensitivity risk)
- Not suitable for fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains Polysorbate 60
- May feel too occlusive or slightly greasy for oily skin types
- Paraffin base presents a fire hazard on clothing/bedding
- No added actives for anti-ageing, brightening, or acne control
- Paraffin scent may be off-putting for some users
- Not the most intensive option for severe flares (ointment preferred)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar water-based paraffin emollient formulation — contains liquid paraffin, white soft paraffin, cetostearyl alcohol, and cetomacrogol 1000. Often prescribed interchangeably with Epaderm Cream on the NHS. No glycerine humectant, so slightly less hydrating, but widely loved for eczema and dry skin.
Water-based emollient with white soft paraffin 13.2% and light liquid paraffin 10.5%. Similar barrier-repairing and moisturising action. Lighter paraffin concentration than Epaderm, making it slightly less occlusive. Widely available OTC and on NHS prescription. SLS-free and fragrance-free.
Contains light liquid paraffin, white soft paraffin, and hypoallergenic lanolin. The addition of lanolin gives it slightly different emollient properties but may cause reactions in lanolin-sensitive individuals. Lower paraffin percentage than Epaderm. One of the UK's most popular dry skin creams but less recommended by dermatologists for severe eczema.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAveeno Cream (Colloidal Oat)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not refrigerate.
Available in hygienic pump dispenser (50g, 150g, 500g). The pump format minimises contamination risk compared to tub packaging. A 500g pump dispenses approximately 125 uses at 4g per pump.
Keep away from naked flames, lit cigarettes, and ignition sources. Clothing and bedding with dried paraffin product can catch fire easily. Wash fabrics regularly that come into contact with the product.
The 50g mini pump is ideal for travel and handbags. The 50g size qualifies as under 100ml for cabin baggage on most airlines.
Although safe for use on children and babies, keep the product out of the reach of young children to prevent accidental ingestion or eye contact. For external use only.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Epaderm Cream is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formulation contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen actives, or other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. The main ingredients — pharmaceutical-grade paraffins and glycerine — are well-established, pharmacopoeial-grade ingredients with no known systemic absorption concerns. It is regularly prescribed by GPs for dry skin conditions in pregnant patients. As always, consult your midwife, GP, or healthcare provider before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
No — Epaderm Cream is NOT considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). The formulation contains Emulsifying Wax NF, which is composed of approximately one-third Polysorbate 60 — a polysorbate ester known to feed Malassezia yeast. It also contains Cetearyl Alcohol, a fatty alcohol that some sources list as potentially problematic for Malassezia-prone skin. If you suffer from fungal acne on the body or face, avoid this product and consider an alternative emollient such as Epaderm Ointment (which contains no polysorbates) or a paraffin/petrolatum-only product.
Yes — Epaderm Cream is fully compatible with all skincare actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHA (glycolic/lactic acid), BHA (salicylic acid), niacinamide, and peptides. As a pure emollient with no active ingredients of its own, it will not cause ingredient interactions. The correct application order is: apply your active serum or treatment first, allow it to fully absorb (10–20 minutes for retinol), then apply Epaderm Cream as a sealing moisturising step. This technique also supports the "moisturiser sandwich" method, where applying an emollient after actives can reduce retinol-related irritation.
Epaderm Cream is best suited for dry, very dry, eczema-prone, psoriasis-prone, and sensitive skin types. It is the go-to daily emollient for anyone managing a dry skin condition requiring regular barrier support. It also works well for normal and combination skin in winter or harsh weather. Oily or acne-prone skin types may find the paraffin base too heavy, especially for facial use, and should consider lighter alternatives. The cream is suitable for all ages including babies, making it an excellent choice for family-wide use.
Most users notice an immediate improvement in skin comfort — reduced tightness and dryness — after the very first application. Meaningful improvements in itching (pruritus) and skin softness typically become apparent within 3–5 days of consistent twice-daily use. The published clinical study using Epaderm Cream measured statistically significant improvements in objective skin hydration and Overall Dry Skin (ODS) scores at the 2-week mark. Full barrier repair and sustained reduction in flare-up frequency is typically seen after 4 weeks of regular use. For eczema and psoriasis, Epaderm should be considered a long-term maintenance product rather than a short-term fix.
Epaderm Cream is applied as the moisturising/emollient step — typically the last step of your routine before sunscreen in the morning, or the final step at night. In a full routine: Cleanser → Toner → Serum/Active Treatment → Epaderm Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). Ideally apply immediately after washing while skin is still slightly damp, as this enhances moisture retention. When used alongside topical steroid treatments, apply the steroid first, wait 20–30 minutes for it to absorb, then apply Epaderm Cream.
Epaderm Cream has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5 — considered low risk. The key ingredients are: Liquid Paraffin (mineral oil) rated 0–2/5 — a 2005 clinical study specifically concluded mineral oil is non-comedogenic in humans; Yellow Soft Paraffin (petrolatum) rated 0–2/5; and Cetearyl Alcohol rated 2/5. The overall risk of pore-clogging is low for most skin types. However, those with very acne-prone or oily skin, or those predisposed to milia, may experience issues. Patch test on a small area of skin first and monitor for 2 weeks. It is generally not recommended as a facial moisturiser for oily or acne-prone skin types.
Epaderm Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The pump dispenser format helps extend shelf life by minimising air and contamination exposure. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the outer packaging. Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For reference, a 500g pump used twice daily at approximately 3–4g per application will last approximately 2–3 months before being finished — well within the PAO window. The 50g mini pump (travel size) will last approximately 2–3 weeks with regular face and hand use.
Verdict: Epaderm Cream by Mölnlycke is a clinically proven, NHS-prescribed emollient that earns its reputation as one of the UK's most trusted dry skin treatments. The combination of pharmaceutical-grade paraffins (25% w/w) and plant-derived glycerine (5% w/w) delivers genuine barrier repair and sustained hydration backed by a published clinical study. It is free from fragrance, SLS, parabens, and steroids, making it one of the cleanest emollient formulations available. The 2-in-1 moisturiser and soap-substitute functionality adds outstanding versatility. Minor limitations include its unsuitability for fungal acne and the paraffin fire hazard requirement. For anyone managing eczema, psoriasis, or chronically dry skin — across any age group — Epaderm Cream is a highly effective, dermatologist-endorsed choice that delivers measurable results.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Paraffin
Emollient, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 0 |
Emulsifying Wax Nf
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxystearyl Cetyl Ether
|
|