Acid potion
Acid potion
Product Description
Moon Juice Acid Potion is a potent 25% AHA + BHA liquid exfoliator that resurfaces, decongests, and brightens dull skin in one quick nightly step. A multi-acid blend of Glycolic, Lactic, and Salicylic Acids accelerates cell turnover and unclogs pores, while Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and adaptogenic Reishi mushroom soothe and hydrate β a "quickie liquid facial" from Moon Juice for smoother, clearer, more radiant skin.
β¨ Texture & Feel
5-Acid Complex
Glycolic, Lactic, Salicylic, Phytic & Citric acids team up to exfoliate, unclog pores, and refine texture in one step.
Adaptogenic Reishi
Ganoderma Lucidum, an "anti-inflammaging" supermushroom, helps calm irritation and reduce oxidative stress.
Soothing Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 (~2β3%) supports the skin barrier, helps even tone, and offsets dryness from the acids.
Clean & Sustainable
Vegan, cruelty-free and reef-safe, packaged in recyclable glass with an FSC-certified outer carton.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains salicylic acid (BHA) plus a high-strength acid complex. Low-dose topical BHA is generally considered low-risk, but consult your OB/GYN before using during pregnancy or nursing.
Not fungal-acne safe β contains Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate and Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, which can feed malassezia yeast.
Rated about 1/5. The lightweight, mostly water-based formula and exfoliating acids actually help keep pores clear.
AHAs make skin more sun-sensitive. Use at night only and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning.
Includes Clary Sage (Salvia Sclarea) essential oil for a light natural scent. Patch test if you are fragrance-sensitive.
Already packed with acids β avoid layering with retinol, vitamin C, or other exfoliating acids on the same night to prevent over-exfoliation.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ͺ Glycolic Acid AHA Β· ~5β8% Proven
The smallest and most-researched alpha hydroxy acid. It penetrates deeply to dissolve the "glue" holding dead cells together, smoothing texture, fading dark spots, and stimulating collagen.
- Source: Glycolic acid removes the top layer of dead skin cells so newer, fresher skin can emerge, and research links it to increased collagen production.
- Estimate: Independent ingredient analyses estimate roughly 5β8% glycolic acid within Acid Potion's 25% multi-acid complex.
π― Salicylic Acid BHA Proven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (derived from willow bark) that travels into pores to dissolve sebum, debris, and dead skin. It clears follicles and helps reduce the look of enlarged, congested pores.
- Source: Salicylic acid gently exfoliates the skin's surface while unclogging and reducing the appearance of pores.
- Bonus: It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for breakout-prone skin.
π§ Lactic Acid AHA Β· ~1β1.6% Proven
A gentler AHA with a larger molecule than glycolic, so it exfoliates the surface while doubling as a humectant that draws water into the skin.
- Source: Because lactic acid molecules are larger, they don't penetrate as deeply, making them less likely to sting and a friendlier choice for sensitive skin.
- Source: Studies suggest lactic acid can boost ceramide production to strengthen the skin barrier.
π‘οΈ Niacinamide ~2β3% Proven
A soothing form of Vitamin B3 that calms redness, supports the moisture barrier, regulates oil, and helps even out skin tone β perfectly placed to offset the acids.
- Source: Niacinamide is a well-studied, stable multitasker with solid evidence for supporting the barrier, regulating oil, and reducing the look of pigmentation.
- Estimate: Formula analyses estimate a meaningful 2β3% niacinamide concentration.
π Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi) Extract Adaptogen Promising
Moon Juice's signature "supermushroom." This adaptogenic reishi extract delivers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to help skin adapt to stress while it's being exfoliated.
- Role: Helps counteract potential redness and irritation from the acid complex while bringing hydration into the skin.
πΎ Phytic Acid Antioxidant AHA Promising
A plant-based antioxidant that doubles as a gentle, brightening exfoliant and chelator. Sitting high on the ingredient list, it supports radiance without the sting of stronger acids.
- Role: Provides mild exfoliation and antioxidant protection, helping the formula brighten and even tone.
20 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycolic Acid, Phytic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Glycereth-7 Trimethyl Ether, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Allantoin, Ganoderma Lucidum (Reishi Mushroom) Extract, Tocotrienols, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Tocopherol, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil, Citric Acid, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use at night on clean, dry skin. Apply Acid Potion straight from your palm (no cotton pad needed), let it absorb, then layer a hydrating serum and moisturizer. Always follow with broad-spectrum SPF the next morning.
π How to Use
Cleanse First
Wash your face and pat dry. Acid Potion is a PM-only step.
Shake & Dispense
Shake the bottle well, then pour a small amount into your palm.
Apply
Press evenly over face and neck with fingertips, avoiding the eye area. Do not rinse.
Start Slow
Begin 1β2 nights a week, building up to 3 nights in a row or nightly as your skin tolerates it.
Hydrate & Protect
Follow with serum and moisturizer, and wear SPF 30+ every morning.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dull, rough, or congested skin and want faster cell turnover
- You're prone to blackheads, clogged pores, or uneven texture
- You want a multi-acid "quickie facial" in one easy, no-cotton-pad step
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free, clean-formulated skincare
- You want to brighten and smooth without a 10-step routine
β Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (check with your doctor first)
- You have a damaged or very reactive skin barrier
- You need a fungal-acne (malassezia) safe product
- You're sensitive to fragrance (contains clary sage oil)
- You already use strong retinoids or multiple acids nightly
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Watery formula won't add grease, and the BHA helps control oil while keeping pores clear.
Refines oily zones while niacinamide and reishi keep drier areas calm and comfortable.
Brightens and smooths with minimal fuss and slots easily into almost any routine.
Effective but can be drying β buffer with a hydrating serum and a richer moisturizer on top.
The powerful 25% complex plus clary sage may sting. Patch test and start just once a week.
π Results Timeline
Instant Smoothness
Skin feels softer and looks more refined right after the first use. A slight tingle is normal with a 25% acid complex.
Most usersBrighter, Clearer Tone
Pores look less congested and overall radiance improves as cell turnover speeds up.
~70% noticedSmoother Texture
Rough patches and blackheads visibly reduce, and makeup applies more evenly.
~80% noticedRefined & Even
Fine lines look softened and tone is more even with consistent, careful use.
Long-term usersβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Visibly smoother, brighter skin and more refined pores
- Multi-acid "facial in a bottle" β fast and effective
- Niacinamide and reishi help offset irritation
- Lightweight, watery texture, no cotton pad needed
- Clean, vegan formula in sustainable glass packaging
β Criticized
- Premium price ($42) for 3.3 oz
- Can sting, dry, or cause purging if overused
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
- Contains clary sage essential oil (fragrance)
- No travel size; bottle can be tricky to dispense from
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
A once-weekly 10-minute rinse-off mask with the same acid trio (glycolic, lactic, salicylic) at a much higher strength. Far cheaper and more intense, but it's a peel β not a leave-on β and has no soothing reishi, so it's not for sensitive skin.
A leave-on daily glycolic toner that's gentler and exceptional value. It delivers AHA exfoliation but lacks Acid Potion's BHA, niacinamide, and adaptogen blend.
An affordable leave-on BHA with niacinamide, great for oil and pore control. More targeted but without the multi-acid resurfacing power of the 25% complex.
π Comparison with Competitors
Moon Juice Acid Potion (Featured)
$42.00Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 1970
~$108The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2%
$9.50Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel
~$33π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and keep the cap closed tightly to protect the acids.
Recyclable glass bottle with a screw cap, in an FSC-certified outer carton.
Yes β 100ml meets carry-on liquid limits. As it's glass, pack it carefully.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Acid Potion contains salicylic acid (a BHA) along with a strong 25% acid complex. Low-concentration topical BHA is generally considered low-risk, but because exact percentages aren't disclosed and acid strength matters, we recommend checking with your OB/GYN before using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No. It contains Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate (an ester) and Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, both of which can feed malassezia yeast. If you're actively managing fungal acne, choose a fungal-acne-safe exfoliant instead.
Acid Potion already delivers multiple AHAs plus a BHA, so avoid stacking additional acids, retinol, or vitamin C on the same night β that risks over-exfoliation and irritation. Instead, alternate them on different evenings and listen to your skin.
It's best for normal, oily, and combination skin that's dull, congested, or uneven in texture. Dry and sensitive skin can still use it, but cautiously β with extra hydration and less frequent application.
Many people notice smoother, softer skin after the very first use. Brighter tone and clearer pores typically appear within 1β2 weeks, with visibly refined texture by around 4 weeks of consistent use (1β3 times per week).
Use it at night, after cleansing and before your serums and moisturizer. Apply it from your palm to clean, dry skin (no rinsing), then layer hydration on top. Always wear SPF the next morning, as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
It has a low comedogenic rating (about 1/5). The mostly water-based formula and exfoliating acids actually help keep pores clear, though it does contain a small amount of rice bran oil, so very oil-reactive skin should monitor how it responds.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and keep the cap closed tightly to preserve the potency of the acids.
Verdict: Moon Juice Acid Potion earns its cult following β a genuinely effective 25% multi-acid exfoliator that smooths, brightens, and decongests in one quick nightly step, softened by niacinamide and adaptogenic reishi so it stays usable for most skin types. It isn't cheap at $42 for 3.3 oz, it isn't fungal-acne safe, and the clary sage scent plus high acid strength mean sensitive and reactive skin should ease in slowly. But for normal, oily, or congested complexions wanting a clean, sustainable "facial in a bottle," it's a standout. Just respect the strength, skip other actives on the same night, and never skip 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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 7 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Phytic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|