Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Product Description
Product overview
A cult-favourite American pharmacy sunscreen trusted by dermatologists for decades. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch SPF 55 delivers powerful broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection through its proprietary Helioplex® Technology while leaving absolutely no greasy residue — just a clean, invisible, matte finish you'll actually want to wear every single day.
Helioplex® Broad Spectrum Protection
Proprietary Helioplex® technology stabilizes Avobenzone to deliver sustained, balanced UVA + UVB protection that doesn't degrade in sunlight — unlike many chemical sunscreens.
Texture & feel
SENSORYHelioplex® Broad Spectrum Protection
Proprietary Helioplex® technology stabilizes Avobenzone to deliver sustained, balanced UVA + UVB protection that doesn't degrade in sunlight — unlike many chemical sunscreens.
Dry-Touch Technology
Silica and Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer create the iconic dry-to-the-touch, no-shine matte finish. Absorbs excess oil and leaves skin feeling clean without any greasy residue.
80-Minute Water Resistance
Film-forming polymers maintain sun protection for up to 80 minutes of swimming or sweating — among the highest water resistance rating available for a daily-wear lotion.
Vitamin E Antioxidant Boost
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure, providing an additional layer of defence against photoaging beyond SPF alone.
Oxybenzone-Free Formula
Reformulated to be Hawaii Act 104 compliant — free of Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, which are banned in Hawaii due to coral reef concerns. Better for ocean ecosystems.
Dermatologist Recommended Brand
Consistently rated the #1 dermatologist-recommended sun care brand in the US. Non-comedogenic and PABA-free — proven safe and effective for daily facial and body use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters (Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene). While the FDA considers these generally safe, ACOG and many dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your OB-GYN before use. Homosalate has shown mild estrogenic activity in laboratory (in vitro) studies.
Contains multiple Malassezia-feeding ingredients: Jojoba Esters, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, and Beeswax (Cera Alba). Those with active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis) should choose a mineral alternative.
Dermatologist tested and labelled non-comedogenic. The silicone base (Dimethicone, Caprylyl Methicone) and oil-absorbing Silica keep pores clear. Comedogenic rating: 1/5. Safe for daily facial use on most skin types.
The current formula does not contain Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3), a controversial UV filter linked to hormone disruption concerns. It's also free of Octinoxate, making it Hawaii reef-safe compliant.
Contains no PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), a UV filter that frequently causes allergic contact dermatitis and skin sensitisation. Safe for most people with fragrance-related PABA sensitivities.
The formula includes Fragrance (Parfum) on the INCI list. Individuals with fragrance allergies or very sensitive/reactive skin should patch test before full application. Not ideal for those who require fragrance-free products.
Contains no retinol, retinaldehyde, or retinyl esters. Safe to use alongside retinoid evening routines. This sunscreen actually provides essential UV protection to counteract retinoid-induced photosensitivity.
No ingredient conflicts with L-ascorbic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or niacinamide. Apply actives first, allow to absorb, then layer this sunscreen as the final AM step before makeup.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvobenzone 3%Proven
The only globally available chemical sunscreen agent that provides proper broad UVA protection (320–400 nm), including the long-wave UVA-I rays responsible for deep skin ageing and DNA damage. Stabilised by Helioplex® technology in this formula to prevent photodegradation.
- Function: UVA filter — peak absorption at 360 nm, covers UVA-I & UVA-II spectrum
- Stability: Inherently photounstable; Helioplex® + Octocrylene extend its effectiveness significantly
- Regulation: Approved in USA (max 3%), EU, Japan, and Australia
- Safety: Well-studied; no significant endocrine disruption detected in human-equivalent studies
Homosalate 10%Proven
A liquid UVB filter (peak at 306 nm) used at its maximum allowed US concentration. Its primary role here is as a solvent to keep Avobenzone dissolved in the formula and enhance overall SPF. Its liquid state contributes to the non-greasy, easy-spreading texture.
- Function: UVB filter (295–315 nm) + Avobenzone solubiliser
- Photostability: Loses ~10% SPF after 45 minutes; always combined with more stable filters
- Max concentration: 10% in USA; 10% in EU (pending review)
Octisalate (Ethylhexyl Salicylate) 5%Proven
A UVB-range chemical filter that works alongside Homosalate and Octocrylene to boost UVB protection and improve the overall SPF rating. It also functions as a photostabiliser and contributes to the lightweight, elegant feel of the formula.
- Function: UVB filter (280–320 nm), peak at 306 nm
- Safety: Good safety profile; approved in US at up to 5%, EU at up to 5%
- Texture benefit: Oily liquid that improves spreadability and skin feel
Octocrylene 10%Proven
A photostable UVB/UVA-II filter that plays a critical dual role: absorbing UV radiation and stabilising Avobenzone. It is highly photostable (loses only 10% in 95 minutes) and helps maintain the formula's protective efficacy throughout extended sun exposure.
- Function: UVB/UVA-II filter (peak 304 nm) + Avobenzone photostabiliser
- Water resistance: Improves the water resistance of the finished product
- Max concentration: 10% in USA; 10% in EU
- Note: Increasing reports of photocontact allergy; patch test if you have a benzophenone allergy history
Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer ~2–4%Proven
A film-forming polymer that boosts the water resistance of the sunscreen formula and increases SPF efficacy. It creates a flexible, breathable film over the skin surface that locks UV filters in place during swimming and sweating — critical for achieving the 80-minute water resistance claim.
- SPF boost: Contributes an estimated 11–18% SPF increase per 1% concentration
- Function: Film-former, water resistance enhancer
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) tracePromising
The stable ester form of Vitamin E, which converts to active tocopherol on the skin. Acts as a fat-soluble antioxidant to quench free radicals generated by UV exposure, providing secondary photoprotection beyond the SPF filter system. Also imparts softening skin-feel benefits.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin conditioning
- Synergy: Vitamin E + Vitamin C combination provides superior antioxidant defence
32 ingredients total
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, Homosalate 10%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 10%
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Silica, Dimethicone, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Benzyl Alcohol, Beeswax (Cera Alba), Caprylyl Methicone, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Dimethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Behenyl Alcohol, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Polyacrylate, Chlorphenesin, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Fragrance (Parfum), Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Tocopheryl Acetate, BHT, Trideceth-6, Jojoba Esters
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINESunscreen is always thefinal step of your AM routine — after moisturiser but before makeup. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
How to use
HOW TO USEComplete Your AM Skincare Routine
Apply cleanser, toner, serums, eye cream, and moisturiser first. Allow each layer to absorb fully before applying sunscreen. This ensures your actives work optimally and the sunscreen sits evenly on top.
Apply Generously — 15 Minutes Before Sun Exposure
Shake or squeeze a nickel-sized amount (about 1/4 teaspoon for face alone) onto fingertips. For face + neck, use approximately 2 finger-lengths. Apply liberally — most people under-apply by up to 50%, cutting effective SPF in half. Chemical sunscreens need ~15 minutes to bind to skin.
Blend Using Gentle Pressing Motion
Dot across forehead, both cheeks, nose, and chin. Blend outward with fingertips using gentle pressing motions rather than rubbing. The dry-touch formula absorbs quickly — work with speed on larger body areas before it sets.
Reapply Every 2 Hours (or After 80 Minutes of Water Activity)
No sunscreen lasts all day. Reapply every 2 hours during direct sun exposure, or immediately after 80 minutes of swimming/sweating, or after towel drying. For face reapplication over makeup, use a setting spray with SPF or sunscreen powder.
Body Application Tip
For body use, apply the equivalent of a shot glass (about 30ml) to cover the full body. Don't forget ears, the back of neck, tops of feet, and any exposed scalp. The lightweight lotion texture spreads easily without leaving white cast.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin that hates greasy sunscreens
- You want SPF under makeup — the dry-touch finish is the perfect primer base
- You are active outdoors — hiking, cycling, swimming, beach days
- You need a budget-friendly daily SPF that actually works
- You struggle to wear sunscreen consistently because of texture
- You want a face + body sunscreen in one product
- You follow an anti-ageing routine and need reliable UVA-I protection
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (opt for mineral zinc oxide sunscreen)
- You have active fungal acne / pityrosporum folliculitis
- You have a fragrance sensitivity or allergy
- You prefer 100% mineral/physical UV filters only
- You have very dry skin that needs heavy moisturisation from SPF
- You have a known allergy to Octocrylene or benzophenone derivatives
- You prefer reef-safe mineral formulas for ocean swimming
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe gold standard for oily skin. Silica and Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate absorb sebum while Dry-Touch technology leaves a genuinely matte, shine-free finish. Won't pill or slide off throughout the day.
Controls shine on the T-zone while Dimethicone and Jojoba Esters provide enough slip for drier cheeks. One of the most balanced sunscreens available for combination-type complexions.
Works seamlessly as a daily AM sunscreen. Lightweight, invisible on skin, and blends beautifully. The clean matte finish makes it ideal as a makeup-prep step or standalone daily protection.
The dry-touch matte finish can feel tight or slightly stripping on very dry skin. Recommended to apply a rich moisturiser underneath and use a facial mist throughout the day. Consider SPF 55 with added hyaluronic acid instead.
Generally well-tolerated; no alcohol denat., parabens, or PABA. However, contains Fragrance and Chlorphenesin which may irritate very reactive skin. Always patch test first. Octocrylene-sensitive individuals should choose a mineral alternative.
Dermatologist-confirmed non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Excellent for clog-free daily use. Note: not fungal acne safe due to jojoba esters — if you have pityrosporum folliculitis, choose a mineral SPF instead.
Results timeline
LONG-TERM (6–12 MONTHS)Instant Broad-Spectrum UV Protection
Chemical sunscreen filters are active within 15–30 minutes of application, providing immediate protection from UVA and UVB radiation. The Dry-Touch technology provides an immediate matte, non-shiny finish that lasts throughout the morning hours.
100% protected from first applicationImproved Skin Texture & Consistent Tone
With daily reapplication, UV-induced hyperpigmentation darkening slows noticeably. New sun spots stop developing. Many users report their existing melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation begins to fade as new UV damage is prevented consistently.
~72% notice reduced new dark spot formationVisible Anti-Ageing Benefits
Prevention of photo-ageing is cumulative. After consistent 3-month daily use, studies show reduced formation of fine lines, improved skin texture, and prevention of collagen degradation compared to unprotected skin. Existing sun damage begins to appear less prominent.
~80% notice slower ageing with consistent daily SPF useSignificant Reduction in UV-Induced Skin Damage
Research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine demonstrates that consistent daily broad-spectrum SPF use over 4.5 years resulted in 24% less skin ageing compared to discretionary use. Reduced risk of actinic keratosis and squamous cell carcinoma with sustained use.
24% less photoageing vs. discretionary SPF use (clinical study)Ratings by platform
41K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Genuinely dry-touch, non-greasy matte finish — the best in drugstore category
- No white cast — truly invisible on all skin tones
- Absorbs extremely fast — ready for makeup in under a minute
- Helioplex® technology provides stable, lasting UVA protection all day
- 80-minute water resistance — excellent for outdoor activities
- Non-comedogenic — won't clog pores with regular use
- Oxybenzone-free — reef-safer and better for hormone-conscious users
- Outstanding value for money — drugstore price, dermatologist-grade results
- Proven in independent UV lab testing: 98.21% UVA blocking, 96.97% UVB blocking
Criticized
- Contains Fragrance — not ideal for fragrance-sensitive or reactive skin
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe — jojoba esters present
- Not recommended during pregnancy — chemical UV filters raise caution flags
- Very dry skin may feel tight or uncomfortable after use
- Can pill under makeup if applied over certain thick cream moisturisers
- 3 fl oz is too small for full-body use — runs out quickly
- Homosalate at 10% has shown estrogenic activity in in vitro studies
- Can streak under heavy perspiration in extreme heat
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
CVS store-brand equivalent uses a near-identical chemical UV filter blend (Avobenzone + Homosalate + Octisalate + Octocrylene) at comparable concentrations, the same matte-finish silica system, and similar film-forming polymer for water resistance. Nearly indistinguishable in texture and sun performance — an excellent dupe at roughly 40% of the cost.
Uses the same core chemical filter combination with 50 SPF instead of 55. Slightly less dry-touch finish but a larger bottle (8 oz) for better value in full-body use. No Helioplex® stabilisation system, so Avobenzone may degrade slightly faster. Best for body use rather than face.
Walmart's generic SPF 50 uses the same active ingredient category (chemical UV filters including Avobenzone and Octocrylene) with 80-minute water resistance. Less sophisticated dry-touch technology — slightly more lotion-like and less matte. Ideal for casual outdoor body use where the premium dry finish matters less.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 55 Featured
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Chemical UV filters can degrade with prolonged exposure to heat and air. Discard if the texture separates, colour changes, or a rancid odour develops.
Store at room temperature (59–77°F / 15–25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat — do not leave in a hot car or direct window. Store upright with cap tightly closed. Avoid freezing. If product separates, gently shake before use.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap — minimal air exposure and easy dispensing for precise amounts. No pump or dropper means slightly less hygienic for repeated touch-ups, but the flip-cap prevents contamination effectively.
Yes — 3 fl oz (88ml) is TSA-approved for carry-on. The compact squeeze tube is leak-resistant and fits easily in any toiletry bag. Neutrogena markets this as their signature travel size for this reason.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy. This sunscreen contains chemical UV filters — Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (10%), Octisalate (5%), and Octocrylene (10%). While the FDA classifies these as GRASE (Generally Recognized As Safe and Effective) for use, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and many dermatologists recommend choosing mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. Homosalate in particular has shown mild estrogenic activity in laboratory in vitro studies. The formula is free of Oxybenzone — one of the most-flagged chemical filters for pregnancy. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your OB-GYN before use, and consider switching to a mineral SPF alternative such as EltaMD UV Clear, CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen, or Vanicream Mineral Sunscreen during this period.
No — this sunscreen is NOT safe for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis / malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains several ingredients that can feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne: Jojoba Esters, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, and Beeswax (Cera Alba). These fatty acids and fatty acid esters are known Malassezia substrates. If you have active fungal acne, choose a mineral sunscreen with a clean, fungal-acne safe formula instead — options include Black Girl Sunscreen, Purito Comfy Water Sun Block, or Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel.
Yes — there are no ingredient conflicts between this sunscreen and any of these popular actives. In fact, combining them is strongly recommended. Retinol, Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid) all increase photosensitivity to varying degrees — making daily SPF 55 application even more essential when using these ingredients. The correct protocol is: apply your actives at night (or morning, depending on your routine), allow them to fully absorb, apply your moisturiser, then finish with this sunscreen as the final morning step. Do not mix this sunscreen directly with your active serums in your palm — layer them in sequence.
This sunscreen excels for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The iconic Dry-Touch technology — powered by oil-absorbing Silica and film-forming Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer — controls shine and delivers a genuine matte finish that doesn't feel greasy or heavy. It has consistently been a top pick for those who struggle to wear sunscreen daily due to texture. It is less suited for very dry skin, which may find the matte formula too stripping — in that case, look for the Neutrogena Hydro Boost SPF 50 or a sunscreen with added humectants. Sensitive skin types should patch-test due to the fragrance and Octocrylene content.
Protection is active within 15–30 minutes of application. Visible skin improvement is cumulative with consistent use. After 2–4 weeks of daily application, most users notice that existing sun spots and hyperpigmentation stop darkening and may begin to fade. After 1–3 months, skin texture typically improves as new UV damage is consistently prevented. Long-term studies (4+ years of consistent SPF use) show a measurable 24% reduction in visible photoageing compared to discretionary use. The most important thing is daily reapplication — even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays reach your skin through cloud cover.
This sunscreen is always the last step in your morning skincare routine — applied after all serums, treatments, eye creams, and moisturisers, but before makeup. The correct order: Cleanser → Toner/Essence → Serums (Vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid) → Eye Cream → Moisturiser → Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 55 → Makeup/Primer (optional). Wait at least 15 minutes after application before going outside to allow the chemical filters to fully bind to the skin. Do not apply underneath moisturiser or mix with other products in your hand — this dilutes the UV filter concentration and reduces the effective SPF.
No — the formula is officially dermatologist-tested and labelled non-comedogenic. The comedogenic rating is approximately 1 out of 5. The silicone-heavy base (Dimethicone, Caprylyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone) is rated 0–1 for comedogenicity and actually helps to create a smooth, barrier film that doesn't interfere with pores. Oil-absorbing Silica helps prevent the sebum buildup that can trigger breakouts. Many users with acne-prone skin use this daily without issue. Important exception: if you have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis), some of the fatty-acid esters in this formula (Jojoba Esters, Glyceryl Stearate, Beeswax) can trigger flares — in that case, a mineral sunscreen is a safer choice.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. Beyond this point, the chemical UV filters (particularly Avobenzone) may degrade and provide less reliable sun protection, even if the product appears unchanged. For daily facial use, a 3 fl oz tube typically lasts 2–3 months when used correctly (applying a sufficient amount). For storage: keep at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat above 77°F. Do not leave in a hot car, as elevated temperatures accelerate filter degradation. If the texture becomes separated or watery, or develops an off-smell, discard immediately regardless of the expiry date.
Verdict: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch SPF 55 has earned its status as one of the most trusted drugstore sunscreens in the world — and for good reason. The combination ofHelioplex® photostabilisation, a genuinely dry-touch matte finish, no white cast, and reliable broad-spectrum coverage at a fraction of the cost of prestige alternatives makes this a standout daily SPF. Independent lab testing confirmed 98.21% UVA blocking and 96.97% UVB blocking, putting its performance in line with far more expensive options. It loses half a point for containing fragrance, not being fungal-acne safe, and requiring caution during pregnancy. For oily-to-combination skin that struggles to find a non-greasy daily SPF, this remainsthe go-to recommendation in any price range.
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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 4 |
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 3 |
Octocrylene
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|