Acne Cream
Acne Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free gel-cream moisturizer formulated with traditional Korean medicine principles. Infused with Willow Bark Extract (natural BHA), Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, and Copper Tripeptide-1 to soothe, balance, and heal acne-prone skin without clogging pores.
Oriental Medicine Heritage
Developed by Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital with 50+ years of expertise in treating skin conditions including acne and atopic dermatitis.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOriental Medicine Heritage
Developed by Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital with 50+ years of expertise in treating skin conditions including acne and atopic dermatitis.
Oil-Water Balance
Controls excessive sebum while providing essential hydration, striking the perfect balance to prevent bacterial invasion and maintain clear skin.
Barrier Repair
Copper Tripeptide-1 strengthens and repairs damaged pores while Nasturtium Extract helps regenerate skin tissue exhausted by acne.
Natural BHA Action
White Willow Bark Extract provides gentle exfoliation with natural salicylic acid and tannins to soothe and clean acne-affected skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Contains only plant-derived willow bark which is considered safe in topical concentrations.
Oil-free formula without ferments, fatty acids (C11-24), or polysorbates. Contains Scutellaria Baicalensis with antifungal properties against Malassezia furfur.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula with soothing Centella Asiatica, Chamomile, and Licorice Root extracts. No harsh alcohols or irritating ingredients.
Safe to use with most actives including retinol and vitamin C. The willow bark provides gentle natural BHA that won't over-exfoliate when layered.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar that brightens, controls sebum, strengthens the skin barrier, and has proven anti-acne benefits. Helps fade post-acne marks and reduce inflammation.
- Studies show: 4-5% concentration reduces sebum production by up to 40%
- Benefits: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger barrier function
- Efficacy: Proven effective for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark ExtractProven
Natural source of salicin, which converts to salicylic acid-like compounds on the skin. Provides gentle exfoliation and anti-inflammatory benefits without the irritation of synthetic BHA.
- Contains: Salicin, tannins, and flavonoids for gentle exfoliation
- Action: Antibacterial properties help control acne-causing bacteria
- Benefit: Regulates sebum and clears pores naturally
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this traditional medicinal herb is renowned for wound healing, anti-inflammatory action, and skin regeneration. A K-beauty staple for troubled skin.
- Active compounds: Madecassoside, asiaticoside, asiatic acid
- Benefits: Accelerates wound healing and reduces inflammation
- Clinical: Effective for eczema, acne scarring, and irritated skin
Copper Tripeptide-1Promising
A naturally occurring peptide in the human body with powerful antibacterial effects. Helps cure damaged pores, prevents bacterial inflammation, and promotes skin regeneration.
- Action: Strong anti-bacterial effects against P. acnes
- Benefit: Rapidly calms festered skin inside pores
- Repair: Regenerates wounded pores and skin tissue
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf ExtractProven
One of the most researched natural ingredients, rich in catechins (especially EGCG). Provides antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory benefits, and antimicrobial action against acne bacteria.
- Catechins: EGCG is the most abundant and most active compound
- Studies: Proven effective for acne, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis
- Protection: UV protectant and anticarcinogenic properties
Scutellaria Baicalensis Root ExtractPromising
Traditional Chinese herbal medicine loaded with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoids. Has antimicrobial properties against both P. acnes and Malassezia furfur (fungal acne).
- Actives: Baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin flavonoids
- Action: Curbs sebum secretion and balances oil-moisture levels
- Bonus: Skin-brightening activity
30 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Methylpropanediol, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, PVM/MA Copolymer, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Dimethyl Sulfone, Pyridoxine HCl, Forsythia Suspensa Fruit Extract, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Carbomer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Tromethamine, Copper Tripeptide-1, Hydroxyacetophenone, Myrtus Communis Extract, Tropaeolum Majus Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner and serum. Works best paired with Pyunkang Yul Acne Toner. Follow with sunscreen in the morning. For active breakouts, layer Acne Spot Cream on top.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, toned skin. After cleansing, apply toner and any treatment serums first.
Dispense Product
Take a pea-sized amount of cream onto clean fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply & Pat
Gently spread across face avoiding eye area. Pat lightly with fingertips to help absorption rather than rubbing.
Follow Up
In the morning, wait 1-2 minutes then apply sunscreen. At night, this can be your final step or layer spot treatment on active blemishes.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin seeking lightweight hydration
- You experience hormonal or stress-related breakouts
- You want a moisturizer that won't clog pores or cause breakouts
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to fragrances and harsh actives
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe acne moisturizer
- You prefer K-beauty products with traditional medicine ingredients
- You want a gel-cream that works well under makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need heavy-duty moisturization
- You prefer rich, thick cream textures
- You want immediate visible results on severe cystic acne
- You're looking for a treatment-strength BHA product
- You need anti-aging benefits as your primary concern
- You prefer products with noticeable fragrances
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel texture absorbs instantly without adding shine. Controls sebum while providing essential hydration. Non-greasy finish is perfect for oily skin.
Balances oil production in T-zone while hydrating drier areas. Gel-cream texture adapts well to different face zones without feeling heavy.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula with antibacterial peptides and soothing botanicals.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula with calming Centella and Chamomile. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.
May be too lightweight for dry skin types, especially in winter. Consider layering over a hydrating serum or using a richer moisturizer on top.
Niacinamide and peptides provide anti-aging benefits. Best for mature skin that's also acne-prone. May need additional hydration layers.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Initial Calming & Hydration
Skin feels more balanced and hydrated. Redness from active breakouts begins to calm. Some users notice reduced oiliness throughout the day.
75% noticed calming effectsBreakout Reduction
Frequency and severity of new breakouts decreases. Existing pimples heal faster. Skin texture begins to smooth out as pores appear cleaner.
68% reported fewer breakoutsVisible Improvement
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Post-acne marks begin to fade. Skin barrier feels stronger with better oil-water balance.
82% saw clearer skinLong-Term Results
Maintained clear skin with continued use. Many users report this becoming their go-to moisturizer. Hormonal acne flare-ups are less severe.
70% repurchase rateRatings by platform
505+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without residue
- Effectively soothes and calms inflamed, angry skin
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula
- Doesn't clog pores or cause new breakouts
- Works well under makeup as a primer
- Good value for the quality of ingredients
- Safe for pregnancy and fungal acne
- Reduces oiliness without over-drying
Criticized
- Too lightweight for dry skin types
- Small 50ml size may not last long
- Results take several weeks to appear
- Clear gel texture may feel different than expected
- May need additional moisturizer in cold weather
- Not a quick fix for severe cystic acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar lightweight gel-cream with 70% Centella Asiatica and Tea Tree. Contains niacinamide and is also fragrance-free. Slightly more hydrating texture.
Oil-free formula with 70% Birch Sap for hydration. Lightweight and non-greasy like PY but less acne-focused. Good for simple, minimal routines.
Centella-focused formula with 50% Centella Asiatica. Unscented and safe for sensitive skin. Slightly richer texture than PY Acne Cream.
Contains actual AHA, BHA, PHA acids for more active exfoliation. Stronger acne-fighting action but may be too intense for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year of first use for optimal efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; refrigeration not required but can enhance the cooling sensation.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination and product waste.
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml TSA limit. Compact tube fits easily in travel pouches and carry-on bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Pyunkang Yul Acne Cream is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any pregnancy-unsafe ingredients like retinoids, high-concentration salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The Willow Bark Extract provides a gentle, plant-derived source of salicin which is considered safe in topical formulations at these concentrations. However, as with any skincare product, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes, this cream is considered fungal acne safe. It's oil-free and doesn't contain common fungal acne triggers like fermented ingredients, fatty acids in the C11-24 range, or polysorbates. Additionally, it contains Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract which has documented antifungal properties against Malassezia furfur. Many users with fungal acne have reported positive results with this product.
Yes, this cream is gentle enough to use alongside most actives. It can be layered over retinol or vitamin C serums to provide hydration and soothing benefits. The Willow Bark Extract provides a mild natural BHA that won't cause over-exfoliation when used with synthetic acids. For sensitive skin, introduce one active at a time. If using strong AHA/BHA products, apply this cream to help calm any irritation.
This cream is specifically formulated for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's also excellent for sensitive skin due to its hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula. The lightweight gel-cream texture works particularly well for those who find most moisturizers too heavy or pore-clogging. Dry skin types may find it too lightweight, especially in winter months, and may need to layer it with a richer moisturizer.
Most users notice initial calming and balancing effects within 1-2 weeks. Reduced frequency of new breakouts typically occurs around weeks 3-4. Significant improvement in overall skin clarity and fading of post-acne marks is usually visible by weeks 6-8. For best results, use consistently morning and night as part of a complete skincare routine. Results vary based on skin type, acne severity, and overall skincare habits.
Apply this cream as your moisturizer step, after cleansing, toning, and applying any treatment serums. In a typical routine: Cleanser → Toner (like PY Acne Toner) → Serum/Essence → Acne Cream → Spot Treatment (if needed) → Sunscreen (AM only). The lightweight texture makes it ideal for layering. It can also serve as a primer before makeup in the morning.
No, this cream has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It's specifically formulated to be non-comedogenic and oil-free, making it safe for acne-prone skin that's susceptible to clogged pores. The lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs quickly without leaving residue that could block pores. Many users who typically break out from moisturizers report no issues with this product.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 50ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, depending on how much product you apply. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. The tube packaging helps prevent contamination and extends product life compared to jar packaging.
Verdict: Pyunkang Yul Acne Cream is an excellent choice for those seeking a gentle, effective moisturizer specifically designed for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Its standout features include the pregnancy-safe and fungal acne-safe formula, lightweight gel-cream texture that absorbs without residue, and powerful botanical blend rooted in Korean traditional medicine. The combination of Copper Tripeptide-1, Willow Bark Extract, and Centella Asiatica provides a comprehensive approach to calming inflammation, fighting bacteria, and repairing damaged skin. While it may be too lightweight for dry skin types and takes several weeks to show dramatic results, it excels as a daily moisturizer that maintains clear skin without causing new breakouts. Best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types looking for a reliable, no-frills moisturizer that truly delivers on its promises.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer
Humectant, Viscosity Controlling
|
|