3% AHA+BHA Foaming Daily Face Wash
3% AHA+BHA Foaming Daily Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A foaming daily face wash with 3% AHA + BHA (Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Salicylic Acid) that gently exfoliates, unclogs pores, and controls acne without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Designed for daily use on all skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates oil-filled pores to dissolve sebum buildup, blackheads, and whiteheads from within.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
Salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates oil-filled pores to dissolve sebum buildup, blackheads, and whiteheads from within.
Gentle Exfoliation
Glycolic acid and mandelic acid (AHAs) lift away dead skin cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin without harsh scrubbing.
Acne Control
The combined AHA + BHA formula works on both the skin surface and inside pores to help prevent new breakouts from forming.
Non-Drying Formula
Contains glycerin and allantoin to soothe and hydrate, so skin feels clean but never tight or stripped after washing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). While the concentration is low and it is a wash-off product, most dermatologists advise caution with salicylic acid during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 20 and Glyceryl Oleate, which are known to feed Malassezia yeast and may trigger fungal acne flare-ups.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The oil-free, gel-based formula is unlikely to clog pores for most users.
Contains DMDM Hydantoin (a formaldehyde-releasing preservative) and MI/MCI, which are known sensitizers. Those with sensitive skin or contact allergies should patch test first.
Clinically tested and approved by dermatologists. Free from mineral oil, dyes, parabens, and sulfates.
AHAs (glycolic acid and mandelic acid) increase photosensitivity. Always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ during the day.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMandelic Acid AHAProven
An alpha-hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds with a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, making it gentler and slower-acting. Excellent for treating acne, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.
- Mechanism: Exfoliates by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface
- Benefit: Also has antibacterial properties, making it effective against acne-causing bacteria
- Research: Studies show mandelic acid is better tolerated by darker skin tones compared to glycolic acid, with lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Glycolic Acid AHAProven
The most researched and well-known alpha-hydroxy acid. Has the smallest molecular weight among AHAs, allowing it to penetrate skin efficiently. Removes dead skin cells to reveal fresher, brighter skin underneath.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the intercellular "glue" holding dead skin cells together for effective exfoliation
- Benefit: Promotes cell turnover and at higher concentrations (>10%) can boost collagen production
- In this product: Used at a low concentration suitable for daily cleansing without over-exfoliating
Salicylic Acid BHAProven
The gold-standard beta-hydroxy acid for treating acne and oily skin. Unlike AHAs, salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate into clogged pores to dissolve sebum and debris from within.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble structure allows it to penetrate pores and break down excess sebum
- Benefit: Potent anti-inflammatory properties (structurally similar to aspirin) help calm redness and swelling
- FDA Status: Recognized by the US FDA as an effective OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2% concentration
Glycerin HumectantProven
A powerful humectant that draws water into the skin. Helps counterbalance the potential drying effects of the AHA/BHA actives in this formula, keeping skin hydrated after cleansing.
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Role here: Prevents the cleanser from stripping the skin, maintaining moisture balance
Allantoin SoothingProven
A skin-soothing and conditioning agent that helps protect the skin barrier. Commonly used in products with active exfoliants to reduce potential irritation.
- Benefit: Promotes cell regeneration, soothes irritation, and helps keep skin soft and smooth
- Role here: Balances out the exfoliating actives, reducing the chance of redness or dryness
18 ingredients
Aqua, C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Mandelic Acid, Maltooligosyl Glucoside (and) Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Coco-Glucoside (and) Glyceryl Oleate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Allantoin, DMDM Hydantoin (and) Methylchloroisothiazolinone (and) Methylisothiazolinone.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in both your AM and PM routines. In the morning, follow with treatment products and sunscreen. In the evening, follow with serums and moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face to dampen the skin. Avoid using hot water, which can strip natural oils.
Apply a Small Amount
Take a pea-sized dollop of the face wash and work it into a lather between your palms. A little goes a long way with this foaming formula.
Massage Gently
Apply the lather to your face using gentle upward circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone and areas prone to congestion.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel — do not rub.
Follow Up
Apply your toner, serum, and moisturizer. In the AM, always finish with sunscreen SPF 30+ as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin with frequent breakouts
- You deal with blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged pores
- You want a gentle daily exfoliating cleanser
- You have dull skin that needs a brightening boost
- You prefer an affordable, pharmacy-grade face wash
- You want a cleanser that removes excess oil without over-drying
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains Polysorbate 20 and Glyceryl Oleate
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — contains salicylic acid
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin — may be too stripping
- You are sensitive to formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (DMDM Hydantoin)
- You are sensitive to MI/MCI preservatives
- You already use strong AHA/BHA treatments (risk of over-exfoliation)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The oil-free foaming formula removes excess sebum effectively while BHA unclogs pores from within. Leaves skin matte and clean without tightness.
The triple-acid formula (mandelic, glycolic, salicylic) targets acne at multiple levels — from surface exfoliation to deep pore clearing. Non-comedogenic rating of 1/5.
Balances well across different face zones. Controls oil in the T-zone while glycerin and allantoin prevent dryness on cheeks.
Works well for maintaining clear, bright skin. May be slightly more exfoliation than normal skin requires daily — consider using once a day if new to acids.
The foaming formula and exfoliating acids may feel drying. If used, limit to once daily (PM) and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Not ideal for very dry skin.
The 3% acid concentration is low, but C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate and the MI/MCI preservatives may cause irritation. Patch test is essential. Start with once-daily use.
Results timeline
WEEKS 6–8Cleaner, Less Oily Feel
Skin feels noticeably cleaner after each wash. Excess oil production is reduced throughout the day. Some users report a subtle glow within the first few uses.
70% noticed cleaner feelReduced Breakouts & Clearer Pores
Active breakouts begin to calm down. Blackheads and whiteheads start to clear as salicylic acid works within pores. Skin texture begins to smooth out.
65% noticed fewer breakoutsBrighter, Smoother Skin
Dead skin cell buildup is visibly reduced. Skin appears brighter and more even-toned. Post-acne marks begin to fade with regular mandelic acid exfoliation.
80% noticed improvement in acne and poresVisible Difference in Overall Skin
Brand claims a visible difference in 3–8 weeks with consistent use. Skin looks clearer, more refined, and healthier. Pore appearance is minimized.
80% reported clearer skinRatings by platform
42K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective triple-acid (AHA+BHA) formula that visibly reduces acne and breakouts
- Affordable price point for an active-ingredient cleanser
- Lathers well — a small amount produces rich foam
- Non-drying despite being a foaming wash; skin feels soft after use
- Noticeably brighter, smoother skin within a few weeks
- Suitable for daily use without irritation for most skin types
- Free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and dyes
- Helps control excess oil throughout the day
Criticized
- Contains DMDM Hydantoin, a controversial formaldehyde-releasing preservative
- Contains MI/MCI — known skin sensitizers not suitable for everyone
- Not fungal acne safe (Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Oleate)
- Small 100ml bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate is a relatively harsh primary surfactant
- Some users with dry skin found it too stripping
- Mild fragrance despite claims of being fragrance-free is noted by some
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses salicylic acid + LHA (a gentler BHA derivative) instead of AHA+BHA. Cleaner ingredient list without DMDM Hydantoin or MI/MCI. Slightly milder exfoliation but better for sensitive skin.
BHA-only formula (no AHAs) with added ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for barrier support. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Better for sensitive and dry skin but less exfoliation power.
J-beauty alternative with AHA + BHA combination in a foaming formula. Uses hyaluronic acid for hydration. Gentler surfactant base and free from controversial preservatives. Available primarily in Asia.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at a temperature not exceeding 30°C in a dry, dark place away from direct sunlight. Close the cap tightly after use.
Opaque pump bottle with twist-lock cap
Yes — 100ml is within carry-on liquid limits for air travel
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This face wash contains salicylic acid (a BHA), which most dermatologists advise pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid or limit. While the concentration is low and it is a wash-off product (reducing absorption), it is best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Some sources from the brand claim pregnancy safety, but mainstream medical guidance recommends caution with any salicylic acid product.
No, this face wash is not fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20 (a polysorbate that can feed Malassezia yeast) and Glyceryl Oleate (an ester of oleic acid). Both ingredients are known triggers for fungal acne. If you have Malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like the Minimalist Salicylic Acid + LHA Cleanser, which has a cleaner ingredient profile for fungal acne sufferers.
Yes, but with caution. Since this is a wash-off product with a relatively low 3% concentration, it can generally be used alongside retinol and vitamin C serums. However, avoid layering too many actives at once to prevent over-exfoliation. A safe approach: use this cleanser, wait a few minutes, then apply your retinol or vitamin C. If you use strong leave-on AHA/BHA treatments (like peeling solutions), reduce use of this face wash to once daily or alternate days to avoid irritation.
This face wash is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling excess oil, unclogging pores, and reducing breakouts. It also works well for normal skin looking for a brightening cleanser. It is not ideal for very dry or very sensitive skin, as the foaming formula and acid content may cause dryness or irritation. Those with dry skin should limit use to once daily and always follow with a moisturizer.
Most users report noticing cleaner, less oily skin within the first week. Visible reduction in breakouts and clearer pores typically appear within 2–3 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. The brand states that users can expect a visible difference in skin texture, brightness, and acne within 3–8 weeks. For post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation, expect 6–8 weeks for noticeable fading.
This face wash goes at the very beginning of your routine as Step 1 (Cleanser). Use it on damp skin, massage gently, and rinse off. Follow with toner, serum/treatment, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). It can be used both morning and evening. If you use a double-cleansing method, this would be your second cleanser after an oil-based one.
No, this face wash has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The oil-free gel formula is designed to cleanse pores rather than congest them. In fact, the salicylic acid (BHA) in the formula actively works to unclog pores by dissolving excess sebum. However, note that the product is not suitable for fungal acne due to specific ingredients (Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Oleate).
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight at temperatures not exceeding 30°C and keep the cap tightly closed after use. With twice-daily use, the 100ml bottle typically lasts approximately 6–8 weeks depending on how much product you dispense per wash.
Verdict: The Derma Co 3% AHA+BHA Foaming Daily Face Wash is a solid, affordable daily exfoliating cleanser that delivers real results for oily and acne-prone skin. The triple-acid formula (mandelic, glycolic, and salicylic acid) provides effective yet gentle exfoliation, and most users see noticeably clearer, brighter skin within 3–6 weeks. However, the inclusion of DMDM Hydantoin (a formaldehyde-releasing preservative) and MI/MCI sensitizers in the formula is a notable drawback, and it is not suitable for those with fungal acne. If you have oily or acne-prone skin and are not sensitive to these preservatives, this is an excellent value-for-money pick. For those with sensitive skin or fungal acne concerns, the Minimalist Salicylic Acid + LHA Cleanser offers a cleaner-formulated alternative.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 1 |
Maltooligosyl Glucoside
Skin Conditioning, Binding, Film Forming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate
Humectant
|
|