How does a product earn the Seal?
Skin care product and cosmetics companies voluntarily apply for the Seal by submitting detailed information about their product and its ingredients, along with required testing data — including a safety-in-use test on at least 30 people with rosacea. The applications are evaluated by an independent panel of dermatologists to determine that the products pass safety tests and do not contain ingredients that are known to be generally unsuitable for use by people with sensitive rosacea skin. Products that meet the required criteria are awarded the Seal. Brands and product manufacturers can find information on how to apply for the seal here.
Who evaluates products submitted to the Seal program?
Each application is reviewed by a panel of three independent dermatologists. The reviewers remain anonymous to maintain impartiality.
What ingredients are not allowed in Seal-accepted products?
Skin care products and cosmetics receiving the Seal of Acceptance have been evaluated to determine that they do not contain ingredients that damage the skin barrier; cause facial flushing or blushing; or cause itching, burning or stinging sensations. Products should therefore be free of ingredients such as sensates (e.g., menthol, peppermint, capsaicin, etc.) and volatiles (e.g., ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, etc.), and avoid use of penetration enhancers (e.g., propylene glycol, ethylene glycol). Read the full guidelines for approval.
Does the Seal on a product mean it is endorsed by the NRS?
No. The inclusion of a product in the Seal of Acceptance program does not represent an endorsement of that product by the NRS. The Seal of Acceptance for a skin care or cosmetic product means it has been evaluated by an independent panel of dermatologists to determine that it meets safety requirements and does not contain ingredients that are known to be generally unsuitable for use by people with sensitive rosacea skin. Rosacea may vary substantially from one patient to another.
Why does a skin care product or cosmetic I use not have the Seal?
Only products that have applied for and pass the review process are awarded the Seal. If you have a favorite product that you think should be carry the Seal, please encourage the manufacturer to apply!
If a product doesn’t have the Seal, should I still use it?
The Seal of Acceptance program is not and is not meant to be an exhaustive list of skin care and cosmetic products that are safe to use. It is simply a guide to products that have been evaluated by experts and determined to be suitable for use on sensitive rosacea skin. Many products meet the Society’s criteria but may not carry the Seal for a variety of reasons. When evaluating products that don’t carry the Seal of Acceptance, read the label and avoid anything that contains known irritants, and follow the advice listed in our Rosacea Skin Care & Cosmetics section.
A product that carries the Seal caused my rosacea to flare up. What should I do?
Rosacea may vary substantially from one patient to another, and what works for one may not work for another. The NRS Seal of Acceptance is intended to identify products that may be generally acceptable for patients with sensitive rosacea skin. It does not guarantee that every individual will not experience adverse reactions after using a product bearing the Seal. If you have a reaction to a product, please contact the manufacturer directly.
Have a question that isn't addressed here? Please email the Society at seal@rosacea.org.