3x Acid Anti-Acne Gel Moisturizer
3x Acid Anti-Acne Gel Moisturizer
Product Description
Product overview
The Skintific 3X Acid Anti-Acne Gel Moisturizer is a lightweight, fast-absorbing gel-cream powered by a triple-acid complex — 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), Lactic Acid (AHA) and Lactobionic Acid (PHA), with an extra touch of Glycolic Acid. It exfoliates at multiple depths to clear clogged pores, fade acne marks, control excess oil and calm redness, all while soothing botanicals like Centella, Purslane, Cactus and Ectoin keep skin hydrated and comfortable.
Triple-Acid Complex
Salicylic Acid (BHA), Lactic Acid (AHA) and Lactobionic Acid (PHA) exfoliate at different depths to clear pores and smooth texture.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Acid Complex
Salicylic Acid (BHA), Lactic Acid (AHA) and Lactobionic Acid (PHA) exfoliate at different depths to clear pores and smooth texture.
Soothing Botanicals
Centella Asiatica, Purslane, Cactus Stem and Ectoin help calm redness and offset potential irritation from the acids.
Hydration Without Grease
Glycerin, Trehalose, Methyl Gluceth-20 and Panthenol replenish moisture so oily skin stays balanced, not stripped.
Barrier Support
Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide plus Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) support the skin barrier while actives do their work.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) plus Lactic and Glycolic Acids. Low-dose topical use is generally considered low risk, but most experts advise caution — check with your doctor first.
Includes Polysorbate 80, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Jojoba Oil, which can feed malassezia and may worsen fungal acne.
No added fragrance or essential oils, plus free from parabens, sulfates and drying alcohols — a friendlier pick for reactive skin.
AHA/BHA exfoliation can increase photosensitivity. Always finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF.
Already an acid product. Avoid stacking with strong retinoids or additional exfoliating acids in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation.
Not tested on animals and free of common reef-harming UV filters, making it a more conscientious daily choice.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (BHA) 2%Proven
The hero active and the only acid with a disclosed concentration. As an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid, it penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum and dead-cell buildup, making it the gold-standard exfoliant for blackheads and breakouts.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, so it works inside the pore lining rather than just on the surface.
- Benefit: Unclogs pores, controls oil and reduces inflammation thanks to its aspirin-like structure.
Lactic Acid (AHA) Undisclosed %Proven
A gentle alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin's surface to brighten tone and smooth rough texture, while also acting as a humectant that draws water into the skin.
- Dual action: Surface exfoliation plus hydration — milder than glycolic acid at similar strengths.
- Bonus: Studies link lactic acid to improved skin barrier and natural moisturizing factor.
Lactobionic Acid (PHA) Undisclosed %Promising
A polyhydroxy acid with a large molecular size, so it exfoliates very gradually and is generally better tolerated by sensitive skin. It also doubles as an antioxidant and humectant.
- Gentle by design: Larger molecule = slower penetration and less irritation than AHAs.
- Antioxidant: Helps protect against free-radical damage while it resurfaces.
Glycolic Acid (AHA) Low (near end of list)Proven
The smallest AHA molecule, included here in a small amount to round out the multi-acid exfoliation and support a brighter, smoother finish over time.
- Smallest AHA: Penetrates efficiently for surface renewal and tone evening.
- Supporting role: Listed low on the INCI, so it complements rather than dominates.
Centella Asiatica + Ectoin Soothing blendPromising
A calming duo that counterbalances the acids. Centella (cica) is well-studied for soothing and supporting repair, while Ectoin is a water-binding stress-protectant that helps keep skin comfortable and hydrated.
- Centella: Rich in compounds that calm redness and support the barrier.
- Ectoin: Binds water and helps shield skin from environmental stress.
42 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Lactobionic Acid, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Methyl Gluceth-20, Carbomer, Salicylic Acid, Sophora Flavescens Root Extract, Trehalose, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract, Sodium Salicylate, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Tribulus Terrestris Fruit Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Panthenol, Ectoin, CI 42090, Arginine/Lysine Polypeptide, Maltodextrin, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Propylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Polysorbate 80, Sodium Magnesium Silicate, Citric Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Xanthan Gum, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after lighter watery serums but before any heavier creams or facial oils. In the morning, always lock in with sunscreen — the acids increase sun sensitivity.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash and pat your face dry, paying attention to acne-prone areas so the actives can absorb evenly.
Apply a Nickel-Size Amount
Dot a thin layer over the whole face or just onto breakout-prone zones for targeted use.
Massage Until Absorbed
Gently press and smooth in until the gel disappears — it absorbs in about 30 seconds with no sticky residue.
AM & PM, Then SPF
Use morning and night for best results. In the daytime, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Start Slow
If you're new to acids, begin every other night and build up to daily use as your skin adjusts.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination, acne-prone skin
- You want exfoliation and lightweight hydration in one step
- You deal with clogged pores, blackheads or active breakouts
- You prefer a fast-absorbing, non-sticky gel texture
- You want a fragrance-free, budget-friendly acid moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You're prone to fungal acne / malassezia (contains Polysorbate 80 and oils)
- You have very dry skin or a compromised barrier needing a richer cream
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You're highly sensitive or reactive to acids and exfoliants
- You already use strong retinoids or several other acid products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel controls oil and absorbs fast without adding shine — ideal for daily use.
Balances the oilier T-zone while still delivering enough hydration to drier areas.
Built for breakouts — the triple-acid blend targets clogged pores, oil and post-acne marks.
Hydrating humectants help, but very dry skin may want a richer cream layered on top.
Fragrance-free and cica-soothed, but the multi-acid formula can still sting — patch test and start slow.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Cooling, Smoother Feel
Skin feels refreshed and slightly smoother. Some users notice mild purging as the acids speed up cell turnover.
~60% notice smoother textureLess Oil, Calmer Skin
Excess shine is more controlled, redness looks calmer and fewer new breakouts tend to appear.
~70% report fewer breakoutsClearer, More Even Tone
Pores look cleaner and post-acne marks begin to fade as continued exfoliation evens out tone.
~65% see fading marksSustained Clarity
With consistent AM/PM use plus daily SPF, skin clarity and smoothness are maintained long-term.
~75% would repurchaseRatings by platform
50K+ REVIEWSFigures below are approximate aggregates compiled from retailer and marketplace listings; exact counts vary by region and over time.
Pros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective multi-acid exfoliation that targets acne and texture
- Lightweight, non-greasy and absorbs fast with a cooling feel
- Genuinely controls oil and shine throughout the day
- Fragrance-free and very affordable for the actives included
- Hydrates and soothes despite being an acid-forward formula
Criticized
- Not fungal-acne safe (Polysorbate 80 and oils)
- Can trigger an initial purge or sting on sensitive skin
- Small 30g tube doesn't last long with twice-daily use
- Contains silicones, which some shoppers prefer to avoid
- Easy to over-exfoliate if layered with other acids or retinoids
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
An Indonesian budget brand offering a comparable AHA + BHA acid blend in a gel moisturizer. The formula is simpler with fewer soothing botanicals, but it covers the core anti-acne exfoliation at a fraction of the price.
A K-beauty cream built on the same triple-acid idea plus tea tree. Exfoliation is gentler and the texture is richer/creamier, making it a softer alternative for those who find the gel too strong.
Focuses on cica and niacinamide to calm acne rather than exfoliate it. A good pick for sensitive or barrier-stressed acne skin, but it lacks the strong triple-acid resurfacing of the Skintific.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigerating it adds an extra soothing, cooling effect on application.
30g squeeze tube — hygienic and easy to dispense a precise amount.
Yes — at 30g it's well under the 100ml carry-on liquids limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. It contains 2% Salicylic Acid (a BHA) along with Lactic and Glycolic Acids. Low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low risk during pregnancy, but because guidance varies and this product combines several acids, we strongly recommend checking with your doctor or OB-GYN before using it while pregnant or breastfeeding.
No. The formula includes Polysorbate 80, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Jojoba Seed Oil, which can feed malassezia yeast and may aggravate fungal acne. If your breakouts are fungal rather than bacterial, choose a malassezia-safe alternative instead.
This product already delivers a strong dose of AHA, BHA and PHA, so layering it with additional acids or strong retinoids in the same routine risks over-exfoliation and irritation. It's safer to alternate — for example, acids/this moisturizer one night and retinol another. Vitamin C generally pairs fine if used in the morning, while this is used in the evening.
It's best for oily, combination and acne-prone skin that wants exfoliation plus lightweight hydration in one step. Dry skin can use it but may need a richer cream on top, and very sensitive skin should patch test and introduce it slowly because of the multi-acid content.
Many users feel smoother, less oily skin within the first 1–2 weeks. Visible reductions in breakouts usually appear around weeks 2–4, with fading of post-acne marks and clearer texture developing over 6–8 weeks of consistent AM/PM use. Some people experience a short purging phase early on.
Use it at the moisturizer step — after cleansing, toner/essence and any lightweight serums, but before heavier creams or facial oils. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, since the acids can increase sun sensitivity.
It's marketed as non-comedogenic and we rate it around 2 out of 5. The base is a lightweight, oil-controlling gel, and the salicylic acid actively helps keep pores clear. A couple of ingredients (jojoba oil, shea butter) carry minor comedogenic potential, but they sit low in the formula and are unlikely to clog pores for most users.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — look for the small open-jar symbol marked "12M" on the packaging. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to keep the actives stable and effective.
Verdict: The Skintific 3X Acid Anti-Acne Gel Moisturizer is a standout value pick for oily and acne-prone skin, packing a genuinely effective AHA + BHA + PHA exfoliating blend (anchored by 2% salicylic acid) into a lightweight, fragrance-free, non-greasy gel that also soothes with cica and ectoin. It's affordable, fast-absorbing and great at controlling oil and clearing congestion. The main caveats: it's not fungal-acne safe, the 30g tube is small, and the multi-acid formula can be too much for very sensitive skin or when layered with other actives — so go slow, don't over-exfoliate, and never skip your SPF.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lactobionic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|