Shop by concern
Acne and breakouts
Acne treatments take time. It can be several weeks to a few months before you see a difference, so stick with one rather than switching.
Ingredients that help
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Adapalene, a retinoid sold without a prescription from age 12
What dermatologists recommend
- Wash gently, up to twice a day and after sweating, using your fingertips.
- Use gentle, alcohol-free products, and skip astringents, toners, and scrubs, which can dry and irritate skin.
- Don't pick or pop pimples.
- Use a non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
- See a dermatologist if acne hasn't improved after a few months of over-the-counter treatment.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology, “Acne: Tips for managing”; American Academy of Dermatology, “A dermatologist's guide to skincare from growing up to glowing up”; US FDA, “Topical retinoid acne treatment approved for OTC use”. General information, not medical advice.
Products for acne and breakouts
6,346 products, most popular first. Picked because their key ingredients help with this; we can't see amounts, so check each product's page.
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Salicylic Acid (2%), Water/Eau, Glycolic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Arginine, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Allantoin, Ammonium Hydroxide
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Silt, Bentonite, Kaolin, Glycerin, Lauryl Lactate, Galactoarabinan, Jojoba Esters, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethicone, Sorbitan Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Esters, Steareth-20, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Tocopherol, Salicylic Acid, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Butylene Glycol, Iron Oxides, Bisabolol, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Squalane, Tetrasodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 60, Steareth-10, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch Octenylsuccinate, Chlorphenesin, Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid, Hydrated Silica, Fragrance (Parfum)
Sensitive skin: fragrance, essential oils Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Decyl Glucoside, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycereth-2 Cocoate, Sucrose Laurate, Glycolic Acid, Glycol Distearate, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Lilium Candidum (Lily) Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Tocopherol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Butylene Glycol, Steareth-4, Citric Acid, Benzoic Acid, Fragrance (Parfum)
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, PEG-18 Glyceryl Oleate/Cocoate, Sorbitol, Glycereth-2 Cocoate, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Papain, Bis-PEG/PPG-20/20 Dimethicone, Acrylates/Aminoacrylates/C10-30 Alkyl PEG-20 Itaconate Copolymer, Citric Acid, Bixa Orellana Seed Extract, Carbomer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Maltodextrin, Benzoic Acid, Fragrance (Parfum)
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Silt, Bentonite, Kaolin, Glycerin, Lauryl Lactate, Galactoarabinan, Jojoba Esters, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethicone, Sorbitan Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Esters, Steareth-20, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Tocopherol, Salicylic Acid, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Butylene Glycol, Iron Oxides, Bisabolol, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Squalane, Tetrasodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 60, Steareth-10, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch Octenylsuccinate, Chlorphenesin, Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid, Hydrated Silica, Fragrance (Parfum)
Sensitive skin: fragrance, essential oils Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Lactic Acid, Decyl Glucoside, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Glycereth-2 Cocoate, Sucrose Laurate, Linoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Salicylic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum)
Sensitive skin: fragrance Why?
- fragrance: Fragrance or parfum, and scent ingredients listed by name, such as linalool and limonene. The most common cause of skincare allergies; worth avoiding if you have eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Lactic Acid, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Gluconolactone, Mandelic Acid, Shikimic Acid, Phytic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactobacillus Ferment, Potassium Sorbate, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Lecithin, Pullulan, Silica, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Cyclopentasiloxane, Aqua/Water, Dimethicone, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Silica, Nylon-12, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Tribehenin, Bisabolol, Cymbidium Grandiflorum (Orchid) Flower Extract, Dimethicone/Silsesquioxane Copolymer, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Lactobacillus/Eriodictyon Californicum Ferment Extract, Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, Salicylic Acid, Serica/Silk, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Alumina, Dipropylene Glycol, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Ethylene Brassylate, Hydrogen Dimethicone, Laureth-7, Magnesium Sulfate, Methicone, Mica, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Sodium Citrate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Triethyl Citrate, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol, Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499), Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Dimethicone, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Aqua/Water/Eau, Isododecane, PEG/PPG-19/19 Dimethicone, Trisiloxane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, C13-16 Isoparaffin, Mica, Adipic Acid/Neopentyl Glycol Crosspolymer, Boron Nitride, Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer, C10-13 Isoparaffin, Alumina, Butylene Glycol, Cymbidium Grandiflorum (Orchid) Flower Extract, Dimethicone/Silsesquioxane Copolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Hydrogen Dimethicone, Lactobacillus/Eriodictyon Californicum Ferment Extract, Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, Methicone, Polyisobutene, Propylene Carbonate, Salicylic Acid, Serica ((Silk) Soie), Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Silica Silylate, Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Tocopherol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, 77492, 77499), Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Titanium Dioxide [Nano]
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Cyclopentasiloxane, Aqua (Water) Eau), Dimethicone, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Titanium Dioxide [Nano], PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Zinc Oxide [Nano], Butylene Glycol, Tribehenin, Phenyl Trimethicone, Nylon-12, Cymbidium Grandiflorum (Orchid) Flower Extract, Lactobacillus/Eriodictyon Californicum Ferment Extract, Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Bisabolol, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Alcohol Denat, Alumina, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Methicone, Laureth-7, Magnesium Sulfate, Silica, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Ethylene Brassylate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Dimethicone/Silsesquioxane Copolymer, Salicylic Acid, Serica ((Silk) Soie), Sodium Citrate, Dipropylene Glycol, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Silk Powder, Tetrasodium EDTA, Hexylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491,77492, 77499)
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Cyclopentasiloxane, Aqua/Water/Eau, Dimethicone, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Titanium Dioxide, PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Zinc Oxide [Nano], Silica, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Nylon-12, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Alumina, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Ethylene Brassylate, Hydrogen Dimethicone, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Laureth-7, Magnesium Sulfate, Methicone, Mica, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tribehenin, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Triethyl Citrate, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Phenoxyethanol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Chemical sunscreen filter with limited pregnancy data: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate. Not known to harm a pregnancy but not well studied, and absorbed into the bloodstream in FDA studies; mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) stay on the skin and are a lower-absorption choice (MotherToBaby, Matta et al. 2020).
Cyclopentasiloxane, Aqua, Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Glycerin, Titanium Dioxide, PEG-10 Dimethicone, PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Hexyl Laurate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Citrullus Lanatus Fruit Extract, Lens Esculenta Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Salicylic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Perlite, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Magnesium Sulphate, Stearic Acid, Alumina, Polysilicone-11, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, Tetrasodium EDTA, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Butylene Glycol, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ci 77499
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Dimethicone, Talc, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Silica, Polyethylene, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Silica Silylate, Nylon-12, Synthetic Wax, Boron Nitride, Salicylic Acid, Sorbitan Trioleate, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Hexyl Laurate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Ethylene Brassylate, BHT, Sorbic Acid, Ci 77891/Titanium Dioxide, Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499/Iron Oxides, Ci 19140/Yellow 5 Lake, Ci 15850/Red 6 Lake
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat, Polysorbate 20, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Sodium Benzoate
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Glycerin, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pullulan, Cellulose Gum, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Benzoic Acid, Pantolactone, Sorbic Acid
Sensitive skin: niacinamide Why?
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid, Poloxamer 184, Benzyl Alcohol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Urea, Dehydroacetic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Polysorbate 20, Hamamelis Virginiana (With Hazel) Water, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Butylene Glycol, Lactic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Fruit Extract, Propanediol, Glycolic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Salicylic Acid, Poloxamer 184, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Urea, Allantoin, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Sodium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, Dehydroacetic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Benzoate, Ci 16035 (Red 40)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Gentle for kidsTeens: Teen-friendly
Aqua (Water, Eau), Cyclopentasiloxane, Azelaic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Squalane, Stearyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Laureth-7, Polysorbate 60, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Olus Oil (Vegetable Oil), Prunus Persica (Peach) Kernel Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Oil, Bisabolol, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Sensitive skin: essential oils Why?
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Panthenol, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pantolactone
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Gentle for kidsTeens: Teen-friendly
Aqua (Water, Eau), Azelaic Acid, Dimethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Squalane, Polysilicone-11, Polysorbate 60, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sorbitan Isostearate
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Glycerin, Polysorbate 20, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Salicylic Acid, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Betaine, Phenoxyethanol, Coconut Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Allantoin, Sodium Isethionate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Zinc Pca, Cereus Grandiflorus Flower Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sorbic Acid
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua/Water/Eau, Kaolin, Propylene Glycol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Charcoal Powder, Salicylic Acid, Bentonite, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Ci 77499 (Iron Oxides)
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Chloride, Salicylic Acid, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Allantoin, Glycerin, Inulin, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Betaine, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Allantoin, Benzophenone-4, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Panthenol, Disodium EDTA, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Hydroxycinnamic Acid, Rutin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ci 15985 (Yellow 6), Ci 42090 (Blue 1)
Sensitive skin: essential oils Why?
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract, Rutin, Hydroxycinnamic Acid, Menthol, Menthyl Lactate, Pullulan, Cellulose Gum, Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
Sensitive skin: essential oils Why?
- essential oils: Plant oils such as tea tree, lavender, citrus peel, and peppermint. Natural, but a common cause of irritation and allergies, especially on sensitive or broken skin.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Betaine, Niacinamide, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Hexylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Ceteareth-25, Sodium Hydroxide, Pentylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Behenic Acid, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide EOS, Caprooyl Phytosphingosine, Caprooyl Sphingosine, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Stearate, Lecithin, Tocopherol
Sensitive skin: niacinamide Why?
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Hamamelis Virginiana Water, Alcohol Denat, Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Salicylic Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Chloride, Colloidal Silver, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Caramel
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid (2%). ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Phytic Acid (10%), Pentylene Glycol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid (2%), Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Limon (Lemon)Peel Powder, Sclerotium Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Panthenol
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Phytic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Ceteth-20 Phosphate, Dimethicone, Salicylic Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Dicetyl Phosphate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citric Acid, Tin Oxide, Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Glycerin, Propanediol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Niacinamide, Mannitol, Salicylic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Gluconate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Waltheria Indica Leaf Extract, Dextrin, Ferulic Acid
Sensitive skin: niacinamide Why?
- niacinamide: A popular, well-tolerated ingredient that can cause redness or flushing for a few people, especially at high strengths.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua/Water/Eau, Propanediol, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Passiflora Edulis (Passion Flower) Fruit Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Salicylic Acid, Alcohol Denat, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Extract, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium Edta, Tasmannia Lanceolata (Pepper Tree) Fruit/Leaf Extract, Sodium Bisulfite
Sensitive skin: alcohol denat. Why?
- alcohol denat.: Denatured alcohol, which helps products feel light and dry fast but can dry out or sting dry and sensitive skin. Fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol are different and aren't flagged.
These flags don't affect the pregnancy rating. They point out the ingredients most likely to make skincare sting, itch, or cause a rash. If your skin is sensitive, or one of them has bothered you before, you may want to skip the product or patch-test it first. Most people use them without a problem.
How we flag ingredientsKids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Lactic Acid, Propanediol, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Xanthan Gum, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium EDTA, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Use with care
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Extract, Xanthan Gum, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limonum Fruit Extract (Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract), Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Disodium EDTA, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Kids: Use with careTeens: Teen-friendly
Salicylic acid / BHA: Salicylic Acid. ACOG says over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be used if needed, but absorption rises with frequent use or large areas; avoid high-strength peels (MotherToBaby/ACOG, Bozzo et al. 2011).
Aqua (Water, Eau), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Ceteth-20 Phosphate, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Dimethicone, Salicylic Acid, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Dicetyl Phosphate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Shea Butter Ethyl Esters, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citric Acid, Tin Oxide, Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide)
Sensitive skin: no common irritants flagged
Skin quiz · 4 questions
Working on more than one thing?
The skin quiz matches ingredients and products to up to three concerns at once, for the age and skin type.
- 1. Face, body, or hair
- 2. Age
- 3. What to fix
- 4. Skin type