Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel
Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically-tested, lightweight gel cleanser powered by Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid that transforms into a silky lather upon contact with water. Formulated with Neutrogena's BarrierCare Technology, it gently lifts away dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities without stripping the skin — leaving every skin type refreshingly clean, soft, and touchably supple after every wash.
Dual-Action: Cleanses & Hydrates
Unlike most cleansers that strip moisture, this formula is clinically proven to simultaneously remove impurities AND increase skin hydration levels — locking in moisture with every wash.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Action: Cleanses & Hydrates
Unlike most cleansers that strip moisture, this formula is clinically proven to simultaneously remove impurities AND increase skin hydration levels — locking in moisture with every wash.
BarrierCare Technology
Neutrogena's proprietary BarrierCare Technology combines gentle surfactants with skin-identical humectants to cleanse without disrupting the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Uses the smaller, hydrolyzed form of hyaluronic acid, which can better penetrate into upper skin layers for deeper moisture delivery compared to standard high-molecular-weight HA.
Gentle Enough for Sensitive Skin
Hypoallergenic, soap-free, oil-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free. Dermatologist tested and recommended, even for daily double-cleansing routines and post-mask skin.
Effective Makeup Removal
The gel lather breaks down everyday makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, and environmental pollutants. Best paired with an oil-based cleanser for heavy or waterproof makeup removal.
Glycerin-Rich Humectant Base
Glycerin is the second ingredient — present at a high concentration to attract atmospheric moisture and prevent trans-epidermal water loss during and after cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. The fragrance-free formula is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your OB/GYN for personalized advice.
The fragrance-free formula does not contain known Malassezia-feeding esters, fatty acids, or ferment filtrates. As a rinse-off product, contact time is minimal, further reducing any fungal acne risk.
Contains no pore-clogging oils or waxes. The formula is water-based and oil-free, officially non-comedogenic and confirmed safe for acne-prone skin by dermatologists.
Free from fragrance, soap, alcohol, parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. The gentle surfactant system (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine) is among the mildest available.
Using this cleanser in your routine does not interfere with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA treatments. In fact, it's ideal as a pre-treatment cleanser before applying actives in your serum step.
The fragrance-free, soap-free formula is generally well-tolerated by rosacea and eczema-prone skin. Patch testing is still recommended for highly reactive individuals before full use.
The hypoallergenic, soap-free formula is gentle enough for use around the eye area without causing irritation. Safe for contact lens wearers when used with care.
Not designed to remove waterproof or heavy-coverage makeup as a standalone cleanser. Follow the double-cleansing method: use a micellar water or cleansing oil first, then follow with this gel cleanser.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid <1%Proven
The star ingredient of the Hydro Boost line. Hydrolyzed HA has a smaller molecular weight than standard sodium hyaluronate, allowing it to reach deeper into the stratum corneum for superior moisture delivery. As a rinse-off product, it deposits a hydrating film on the skin surface during contact time.
- Function: Humectant — attracts and binds up to 1,000x its weight in water molecules.
- Size advantage: Hydrolyzed form penetrates better than high-molecular-weight HA used in many cleansers.
- Clinical data: Neutrogena states the formula is clinically proven to increase skin hydration levels and lock in moisture.
- Skin-identical: HA is a natural component of the extracellular matrix; supplementing it reinforces barrier function.
Glycerin ~5–10%Proven
The second ingredient in the formula and the backbone of this cleanser's hydrating power. Glycerin is a skin-identical humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin, preventing trans-epidermal water loss during and after cleansing. At high concentrations, it actively moisturizes rather than just attracting surface water.
- Function: Humectant, emollient, skin-identical ingredient.
- Efficacy: Effective from as low as 3%; high-glycerin formulas are clinically superior for dry and dehydrated skin.
- Barrier support: Helps maintain healthy lipid organization between skin cells, reinforcing the moisture barrier.
- Comedogenicity: 0/5 — completely non-comedogenic and safe for oily and acne-prone skin.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate variesProven
One of the gentlest cleansing agents available. Derived from coconut fatty acids and isethionic acid, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (SCI) creates a rich, creamy lather that effectively removes dirt and oil while barely affecting the skin barrier — making it a staple in sensitive-skin and "clean beauty" formulations.
- Function: Primary surfactant, foam booster.
- Mildness: Has one of the lowest irritation profiles of all surfactants; frequently used in baby cleansers.
- Origin: Vegetable-derived, biodegradable.
- FA safety: Not a known Malassezia trigger.
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine variesProven
An amphoteric co-surfactant derived from coconut oil. It both enhances lather and acts as a viscosity builder, giving the gel its silky texture. Its amphoteric (dual-charge) structure makes it exceptionally mild — it actively conditions skin while cleansing and has a low irritation profile even for reactive skin.
- Function: Co-surfactant, foam booster, viscosity controller, conditioning agent.
- Gentleness: Amphoteric structure reduces overall formulation irritation potential.
- Biodegradable: Readily biodegradable; low environmental impact.
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate variesProven
A mild anionic surfactant derived from coconut oil and taurine (an amino acid). It gives a soft, non-drying after-feel and excellent foaming performance without disrupting skin's acid mantle. It is classified as one of the mildest anionic surfactants available for facial cleansers.
- Function: Mild surfactant, mild foam booster.
- Skin feel: Leaves skin with a silky, non-stripping finish post-rinse.
- Compatibility: Works synergistically with SCI to lower the overall irritation of the surfactant system.
Hydroxyacetophenone <1%Promising
A multifunctional ingredient used primarily as a mild preservative booster and antioxidant. It enhances the activity of phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin, allowing the formula to use lower concentrations of traditional preservatives while maintaining product safety and stability.
- Function: Preservative booster, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory support.
- Safety: Very low irritation potential; considered a "green chemistry" preservative alternative.
- Trend: Increasingly used in sensitive-skin and clean-beauty formulations.
Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate <1%Promising
A natural, sustainable derivative of potato starch that serves multiple functions: it improves foam quality, reduces surface oiliness, aids in the absorption of the formula, and acts as a sensory conditioning agent. Its natural origin aligns with Neutrogena's move toward cleaner ingredient sourcing.
- Function: Natural surfactant support, oil-control aid, sensory modifier, thickener.
- Origin: Plant-derived (potato starch), biodegradable.
- Benefit: Helps reduce greasy residue while maintaining hydration.
17 ingredients — Fragrance-Free Formula
Water, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydrolyzed Potato Starch Dodecenylsuccinate, Potassium Acrylates Copolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, Phenoxyethanol, Linoleamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Polyquaternium-10, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in both your morning and evening routine. For PM routines involving heavy makeup or SPF, use a cleansing oil or micellar water first (double cleanse), then follow with this gel cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water over your face. Avoid hot water as it can cause unnecessary vasodilation and strip natural oils from the skin barrier.
Dispense 1–2 Pumps
Pump 1 to 2 pea-sized amounts of the gel cleanser onto your fingertips or directly onto damp palms. One pump is typically sufficient for a regular cleanse; use two for a deeper cleanse or makeup removal.
Lather and Massage
Add a small amount of water to the gel and work it into a silky lather between your palms. Gently massage onto your face in small, circular motions for 30–60 seconds, covering all areas including the hairline, jawline, and nose.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains on the skin. The formula is designed to rinse clean without leaving a film or stripping sensation.
Pat Dry Gently
Pat — do not rub — your face dry with a clean, soft towel. Leave skin slightly damp before applying your next skincare step (toner, serum, or moisturizer) to lock in hydration while pores are open.
Continue Your Routine
Follow immediately with a toner or essence, then apply your actives, moisturizer, and SPF. Use morning and evening for best hydration results. Safe for daily double-cleansing routines.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or combination skin that feels tight after cleansing
- You are sensitive to fragrance, soap, or sulfates
- You want a cleanser that actively hydrates as it cleanses
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a gentle, safe formula
- You deal with acne-prone skin and need a non-comedogenic option
- You want a drugstore-priced cleanser with clinical backing
- You wear light-to-medium daily makeup and need gentle removal
- You follow a minimalist or budget-conscious skincare routine
Consider alternatives if:
- You wear heavy, full-coverage, or waterproof makeup (use a double-cleanse method instead)
- You prefer a foaming or sudsy texture for oily skin deep cleansing
- You are looking for anti-aging actives (AHA/BHA/retinol) in your cleanser
- You need a micellar water or oil-based first cleanser for heavy SPF removal
- You are highly reactive to Polysorbate 20 (present in older formulations)
- You require a prescription-strength medicated cleanser for severe acne or rosacea
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe glycerin-rich, hyaluronic acid-infused formula is specifically designed to prevent post-cleanse tightness and dryness. A top pick for dry skin types who struggle to find a cleanser that doesn't strip them.
Clinically proven to increase hydration levels during cleansing. The humectant-forward formula addresses transient dehydration and helps repair a compromised moisture barrier with regular use.
Hydrates drier areas while the oil-free, soap-free formula respects sebum balance in the T-zone. May feel slightly under-cleansing for very oily T-zones on its own — consider pairing with clay in the oily zone if needed.
Fragrance-free, soap-free, and hypoallergenic — a top dermatologist recommendation for reactive, sensitized, and rosacea-prone skin. The gentle surfactant blend minimizes disruption to the acid mantle.
Non-comedogenic rating of 0/5 and oil-free formula make it safe for acne-prone skin. Does not contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for active breakout treatment, so pair with targeted acne actives in your serum step.
The gentle, hydrating formula is suitable but may feel insufficiently thorough for very oily skin or heavy-coverage makeup users. Those with very oily skin may prefer a foam or gel-to-foam cleanser with stronger surfactants.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Hydration Boost & Clean Feel
Skin feels noticeably softer, cleaner, and more supple immediately after rinsing compared to traditional stripping cleansers. No tight or dry after-feel — the hallmark result of the Hydro Boost formula.
~90% noticedReduced Post-Cleanse Tightness
Regular users report their skin no longer feels dry or dehydrated directly after washing. The moisture barrier begins to stabilize, especially for those who have been using harsh or stripping cleansers prior.
~78% noticedVisibly Improved Skin Texture & Plumpness
Consistent use leads to noticeably smoother skin texture, reduced dry patches, and a healthier-looking complexion. Skin appears more plump and dewy throughout the day, requiring less frequent moisturizer reapplication.
~65% noticedStrengthened Skin Barrier & Long-Term Hydration
With continued daily use, the skin barrier becomes more resilient. Users with previously reactive or sensitized skin report fewer irritation episodes, reduced redness, and improved tolerance to other actives in their routine.
~55% noticedRatings by platform
25K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Genuinely hydrating cleansing experience — skin feels soft, not stripped
- Extremely gentle — safe for pregnancy, sensitive skin, and daily use
- Fragrance-free and free from most common irritants
- Effective for light-to-moderate makeup removal
- Non-comedogenic (0/5) — proven safe for acne-prone skin
- Accessible and affordable at most drugstores worldwide
- Clinically proven hydration increase — not just a marketing claim
- Pump packaging is hygienic and easy to dose
- Works well as second step in a double-cleanse routine
Criticized
- Not sufficient for waterproof SPF or heavy makeup without a first-cleanse step
- Low lather/foam output disappoints those who equate suds with cleansing
- Oily skin types may find it under-cleansing on its own
- Hydrolyzed HA is at the end of the INCI list — likely sub-1% concentration
- Pump can be inefficient when the bottle is nearly empty
- Some older formulations contain fragrance (parfum) — check label carefully
- No active acne-fighting ingredients for breakout-prone users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Very similar hydrating cleanser concept with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. Equally gentle, fragrance-free, and dermatologist recommended. CeraVe adds ceramides for extra barrier repair but has a slightly thicker, less gel-like texture. Both are non-comedogenic and widely recommended for dry and sensitive skin.
A minimalist, fragrance-free, dye-free cleanser with a shorter ingredient list. Extremely gentle with Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine as primary surfactant. Less hydration-focused than Hydro Boost (no HA) but ideal for ultra-reactive or allergy-prone skin. Great for eczema and psoriasis-prone individuals.
A comparable gel-based cleanser with pro-vitamin B5, vitamin E, and bisabolol for added soothing properties. Fragrance-free and alcohol-free. Slightly more moisturizing feel during lathering. Less clinical backing for hydration claims, but excellent value and widely available at drugstores internationally.
A premium alternative with ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin. Superior barrier-restoring properties and pre-biotic technology to support the skin microbiome. Particularly recommended for rosacea and chronically irritated skin. Slightly higher price point but delivers added barrier-repair value beyond cleansing.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" for confirmation. Discard if formula changes color, smell, or texture before that point.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the pump cap closed between uses to maintain formula integrity and prevent contamination.
Available in pump dispenser bottles (6 oz / 177ml, 7.8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz) and squeeze tubes for smaller travel sizes. The pump is hygienic and prevents contamination from fingers dipping into the formula.
Yes — travel sizes available in 0.5 fl oz (15ml) and 2 fl oz (59ml), both compliant with TSA carry-on liquid limits of 3.4 oz (100ml). Perfect for on-the-go skincare routines.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel (fragrance-free formula) is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or essential oils. The key ingredients — Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and gentle coconut-derived surfactants — are all widely recognized as safe during pregnancy. As always, consult your OB/GYN or midwife for personalized guidance, especially in the first trimester.
Yes — the fragrance-free formula of the Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel is considered fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. It does not contain free fatty acids, ferment filtrates, most esters, or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast. As a rinse-off product, even ingredients with minor FA risk (such as Linoleamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, a conditioning agent present in very small amounts) do not stay on the skin long enough to pose a significant risk. If you are managing active fungal acne, this is a safe cleanser choice, but always verify the specific lot's INCI list as formulations can change.
Absolutely yes. The Hydro Boost Cleansing Gel is actually an ideal cleanser to use before applying actives such as retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). As a pH-neutral, rinse-off formula, it does not interfere with the efficacy of any of these actives applied afterward. In fact, its barrier-supportive formula helps keep skin hydrated and resilient, which is particularly beneficial when using potentially drying actives like retinol or AHAs. Use it as your first cleanser step, then apply your actives once skin is dry.
The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel is best suited for dry, dehydrated, normal, combination, and sensitive skin types. It is especially recommended for anyone whose skin feels tight, dry, or uncomfortable after cleansing with their current formula. Its oil-free, non-comedogenic formulation makes it safe for acne-prone skin. It is suitable but potentially under-cleansing for very oily skin — those with moderate to heavy oiliness may want a second, deeper-cleansing step or a different formulation. All skin types can benefit from it as the second step in a double-cleansing routine.
Many users notice an immediate difference after the very first use — skin feels softer, more supple, and free from the uncomfortable tight-after-wash feeling. Visible hydration improvements, such as reduced dry patches and a plumper overall texture, are typically observed within 1–2 weeks of daily use. After 4 weeks of consistent morning and evening use, most users experience a measurably improved skin barrier, leading to better moisture retention throughout the day and improved tolerance of other skincare actives. Clinical studies by Neutrogena support a measurable increase in hydration levels from the first use.
The Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel is always Step 1 in your routine — both AM and PM. In the morning, cleanse your face, then apply toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF. In the evening, if you are wearing makeup, SPF, or heavy products, start with a cleansing oil or micellar water to break down those products first (double cleansing), then follow with this gel cleanser as your second cleanse to remove any remaining residue and prep the skin for your actives (retinol, AHA, BHA) or nourishing treatments. Always apply your actives and moisturizer to damp or freshly dried skin after cleansing.
No — the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel is officially rated non-comedogenic and is labeled as such on the packaging. The formula is completely oil-free, contains no known pore-clogging waxes, and carries a comedogenic rating of 0/5 based on its ingredient profile. It has been clinically and dermatologically tested and is suitable for acne-prone skin. This is one of the reasons it is a top dermatologist recommendation for patients prone to breakouts who still need proper hydration in their cleansing step.
The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Look for the open-jar icon on the bottle labeled "12M." A standard 6 oz (177ml) pump bottle typically lasts 3–5 months with daily AM and PM use (1–2 pumps per use). The pump dispenser packaging is hygienic and helps extend the formula's shelf life by minimizing exposure to air and bacteria. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures for optimal longevity.
Verdict: The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel earns its reputation as one of the best drugstore hydrating cleansers available. Its combination ofHydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and a genuinely gentle surfactant system (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate + Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine) delivers on its clinical promise: skin is measurably more hydrated immediately after cleansing — not just less stripped. The fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic formula makes it a universal choice safe forpregnancy, sensitive skin, fungal acne, and virtually every skin type. The only meaningful limitation is its modest makeup removal power, which makes it best deployed as the second step in a double-cleansing routine for makeup wearers. At its accessible price point, it offers dermatologist-grade gentleness that competes confidently with formulas costing twice as much.
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 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|