AHA BHA 10%
AHA BHA 10%
Product Description
Product overview
Minimalist AHA BHA 10% is a lightweight, fast-absorbing daily exfoliating serum that pairs 9.5% AHAs (Lactic + Glycolic Acid) with 0.5% BHA (Salicylic Acid) at a low pH of ~3.5. Designed as a gentle entry point into chemical exfoliation, it sweeps away dead surface cells, unclogs pores and fades post-acne marks to reveal smoother, more even-toned, glowing skin — without the sting or dryness of a harsh peel.
Multi-Level Exfoliation
AHAs (Lactic + Glycolic) lift dead cells from the surface while oil-soluble BHA (Salicylic Acid) works inside pores for a deeper clean.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMulti-Level Exfoliation
AHAs (Lactic + Glycolic) lift dead cells from the surface while oil-soluble BHA (Salicylic Acid) works inside pores for a deeper clean.
Gentle & Beginner-Friendly
A balanced 10% blend at pH ~3.5 that exfoliates without the sting or dryness of a strong weekend peel — ideal for first-time acid users.
Hydration Built In
Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin attract and hold moisture so freshly exfoliated skin stays plump, soft and comfortable.
Even Tone & Fades Marks
Regular use targets dullness, uneven texture and post-acne pigmentation — 88% of subjects saw reduced pigmentation in 4 weeks.
Soothed by Turmeric
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract is added to calm the irritation commonly associated with exfoliating acids.
Clean, Transparent Formula
Free from fragrance, essential oils, silicones, sulfates, parabens and dyes. Vegan, cruelty-free and reef safe.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains leave-on Salicylic Acid (BHA). While the dose is low (0.5%), many dermatologists advise pausing leave-on BHA during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
The formula contains no problematic esters, fatty acids or polysorbates, making it suitable for malassezia-prone skin.
AHAs make skin more susceptible to sunburn. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory while using this product and for a week after.
Avoid pairing on the same night with retinol, Vitamin C or other strong acids to prevent irritation. Alternate them on separate evenings.
With all direct acids, patch test behind the ear or on the inner arm before first facial use, especially on reactive skin.
Increased cell turnover may cause temporary purging in some users, which typically settles within 3–4 weeks.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSLactic Acid AHAProven
One of the mildest and most hydrating AHAs. It gently penetrates the surface to dissolve the bonds holding dead cells together, improving texture, tone and softness while being well tolerated by sensitive and dry skin.
- Function: Surface exfoliation, brightening and improved moisture retention.
- Why it suits beginners: Larger molecular size means slower, gentler penetration than glycolic acid.
Glycolic Acid AHAProven
The most studied AHA, with the smallest molecular weight in the family. It penetrates more deeply to accelerate cell renewal, smooth rough texture and visibly brighten a dull complexion.
- Function: Deeper resurfacing, fading of dark spots and refining of fine texture.
- Source quality: Sourced from leading global suppliers such as Chemours (USA).
Salicylic Acid 0.5% BHAProven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that travels into the pore lining to dissolve excess sebum and debris, helping clear blackheads and prevent congestion — the key benefit AHAs alone can't provide.
- Function: Decongests and unclogs pores, reduces blackheads and breakouts.
- Concentration: Kept low (0.5%) so it complements the AHAs without over-stripping.
Sodium Hyaluronate HAProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid and a powerful humectant. It draws water into the skin to offset the potential dryness of exfoliating acids, keeping skin plump, soft and hydrated.
- Function: Lightweight hydration and barrier comfort post-exfoliation.
Curcuma Longa Root Extract TurmericPromising
Turmeric root extract is included for its traditional soothing and antioxidant reputation, added to help calm the irritation and redness that exfoliating acids can sometimes trigger.
- Function: Soothing support and antioxidant defence.
20 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Methylpropanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Salicylic Acid, Pullulan, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sclerotium Gum, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Lecithin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse at night, after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizer. Start 2–3 nights per week and build up gradually as your skin adjusts. Never skip morning sunscreen.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
In the evening, wash with a gentle cleanser and pat skin completely dry before applying.
Apply 3–4 Drops
Dispense 3–4 drops and spread evenly across the face, avoiding the eye area, lips and any broken or irritated skin.
Let It Absorb
Wait 1–2 minutes for the serum to sink in. A mild tingle is normal; persistent stinging is not.
Hydrate & Seal
Follow with a hydrating serum (such as hyaluronic acid) and lock in with your preferred moisturizer.
SPF Every Morning
Always finish the next morning with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher — exfoliated skin burns more easily.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're new to chemical exfoliation and want a gentle starting point
- You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin with clogged pores
- You're targeting dullness, uneven texture or post-acne marks
- You prefer a fragrance-free, fungal-acne-safe daily formula
- You want both AHA and BHA in one affordable bottle
Consider alternatives if:
- You're an experienced acid user wanting a strong peel (try the 25–32% version)
- You have very sensitive, rosacea-prone or compromised skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and avoiding leave-on BHA
- You want a fragranced or richly emollient treatment
- You expect dramatic results within a few days
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, non-greasy and the BHA helps control congestion and shine without heaviness.
Balances oily zones while the AHAs and hyaluronic acid keep drier areas smooth and hydrated.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe; salicylic acid unclogs pores and helps fade marks.
Hydrating humectants soften the exfoliation, but a richer moisturizer on top is recommended.
Fragrance-free and relatively mild, but the low pH and acids warrant a patch test and slow introduction.
Results timeline
8 WEEKSAdjustment Phase
Mild tingling on application is normal. Some users notice an initial purge as cell turnover speeds up — this is temporary.
Patience advisedSmoother, Refined Texture
Skin starts to feel softer and look more even as dead cells are cleared and pores stay less congested.
88% felt skin retextured in 4 weeksFading Pigmentation
Post-acne marks and uneven tone begin to lighten with consistent nightly or alternate-night use.
88% saw reduced pigmentation in 4 weeksSoft & Glowing Skin
With continued use, skin reaches its brightest, smoothest and most radiant state.
90% said skin felt soft & glowing in 8 weeksRatings by platform
18K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle enough for beginners — rarely stings or burns
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing and never greasy
- Combines AHA + BHA in one affordable bottle
- Fragrance-free, fungal-acne safe, vegan and cruelty-free
- Visible glow, smoother texture and fading of acne marks over time
- Fully transparent ingredient list with no hidden actives
Criticized
- Too mild for seasoned acid users wanting a strong peel
- Results are gradual rather than dramatic
- Can trigger initial purging or redness on reactive skin
- Small 30 ml size and a dropper some find messy
- Demands strict daily sunscreen to be effective and safe
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar 10% lactic-acid strength with hyaluronic acid for hydration, but contains no salicylic acid — so it exfoliates the surface without the pore-clearing BHA action.
A K-beauty toner that also blends AHA and BHA, but at lower concentrations. Gentler and great for daily use, though noticeably less potent than this 10% serum.
A larger 240 ml glycolic toner that delivers strong brightening, but it's glycolic-only (no lactic or BHA) and is rinse-free toner rather than a targeted multi-acid serum.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap tightly closed.
Glass bottle with dropper applicator
Yes — 30 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The serum contains leave-on Salicylic Acid (BHA), which many dermatologists suggest pausing during pregnancy and breastfeeding even at low concentrations. The AHAs (lactic and glycolic) are generally considered lower risk, but because this is a multi-acid leave-on product, we recommend consulting your doctor before using it during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes. The formula does not contain the esters, fatty acids or polysorbates that typically feed malassezia, making it suitable for those managing fungal acne. As always, monitor your own skin's response when introducing any new active.
Avoid layering it on the same night as retinol or other strong acids, as combining exfoliants raises the risk of irritation. Alternate them on separate evenings instead. Vitamin C is best used in the morning, while this serum is a PM product — so they can comfortably live in the same routine on different parts of the day.
It performs best on oily, combination and acne-prone skin, and is an excellent gentle starting point for beginners to chemical exfoliation. Dry skin can use it with a richer moisturizer on top, while very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first and introduce it slowly.
Most users notice smoother texture within 2–4 weeks, with the brand reporting 88% of subjects seeing improved texture and reduced pigmentation in 4 weeks, and 90% experiencing soft, glowing skin by 8 weeks. Consistency and daily sunscreen are key to results.
Use it at night after cleansing (and toning if you tone), before your hydrating serum and moisturizer. Apply 3–4 drops to dry skin, let it absorb, then follow with hydration. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF the next morning.
No — it's formulated to be non-comedogenic and oil-free, with a comedogenic rating of around 1/5. In fact, its salicylic acid actively helps clear and unclog pores rather than block them.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and keep the cap closed to preserve the potency of the acids.
Verdict: Minimalist AHA BHA 10% is one of the best-value entry-level multi-acid exfoliants available. Its balanced 9.5% AHA + 0.5% BHA blend, lightweight feel and fragrance-free, fungal-acne-safe formula make it ideal for oily, combination and acne-prone skin and anyone new to chemical exfoliation. The trade-off is that it's deliberately gentle — acid veterans may find it too mild and results gradual rather than instant. Pair it with diligent daily sunscreen and it's a smart, affordable workhorse for smoother, brighter, more even-toned skin.
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 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Dimethyl Isosorbide
Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|