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AHA+BHA Charcoal Daily Mattifying Air Cream

AHA+BHA Charcoal Daily Mattifying Air Cream

Product Description

Product overview

Made in France DRUGSTORE

A lightweight, black-to-transparent mattifying gel cream powered by 10% Niacinamide + AHA + BHA and activated charcoal. Delivers 3-in-1 action: visibly reduces blemishes, provides all-day oil control, and offers 48-hour hydration without clogging pores. Dermatologist-approved and hypoallergenic for oily and blemish-prone skin.

Dermatologically Tested Non-Comedogenic Hypoallergenic Vegan Cruelty-Free (Leaping Bunny) Oil-Free Silicone-Free Paraben-Free
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
50 ml
Type
Gel-Cream
Skin Concern
Oily / Acne
When to Use
AM & PM
Key Active
Niacinamide 10%
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Black-to-Transparent Texture

Unique charcoal-infused black gel turns transparent on application with no residue left behind on the skin.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel-Cream
Scent
Light Fresh Fragrance
Absorption
Instant
Finish
Matte

Black-to-Transparent Texture

Unique charcoal-infused black gel turns transparent on application with no residue left behind on the skin.

48-Hour Hydration

Glycerin and biosaccharide gum lock in moisture for up to 48 hours while keeping the surface shine-free.

3-in-1 Action Formula

Combines blemish reduction, oil control, and deep hydration in a single lightweight moisturizer step.

Clinically Proven Results

Reduces pimple occurrence by 52% and acne mark visibility by up to 50% after regular use, per brand testing.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains salicylic acid (BHA) at low concentration. Most dermatologists consider topical BHA under 2% to be low-risk during pregnancy, but consult your doctor before use as a precaution.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not fungal acne safe. Contains cetearyl isononanoate, polyglyceryl-10 myristate, polyglyceryl-10 stearate, and polyglyceryl-2 isostearate, which are esters that can feed malassezia yeast.

Non-Comedogenic

Officially non-comedogenic (rating 1/5). Oil-free and silicone-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores.

Sensitive Skin Compatible

Hypoallergenic formula is dermatologically tested and approved by Garnier's board of dermatologists. Suitable for sensitive skin types.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free

Certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny. Contains no animal-origin ingredients. 100% vegan formula.

Contains Alcohol & Fragrance

Contains alcohol denat. (drying agent) and parfum/fragrance. May cause irritation on very sensitive or compromised skin barriers. Patch test recommended.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~5-10%Proven

The second listed ingredient, indicating a high concentration. Niacinamide is a multifunctional powerhouse that regulates sebum production, minimizes pore appearance, brightens skin tone, and strengthens the skin barrier.

  • Study: 2% niacinamide reduced sebum excretion rate significantly after 4 weeks of use (Draelos et al., 2006).
  • Benefit: Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and calm active breakouts.
  • Synergy: Works well with AHA/BHA to improve overall skin texture without irritation.
Garnier states 10% combined concentration of Niacinamide + AHA + Salicylic Acid in this formula.

Lactic Acid (AHA) <2%Proven

A gentle alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, and helps refine skin texture. Milder than glycolic acid, making it more suitable for sensitive skin types.

  • Function: Breaks down bonds between dead skin cells for a smoother, brighter complexion.
  • Hydrating: Unlike other AHAs, lactic acid also has humectant properties that help retain moisture.

Salicylic Acid (BHA) <0.5%Proven

An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs and dead skin cells. Provides anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits for blemish-prone skin.

  • Function: Penetrates pores to unclog them from within, reducing blackheads and preventing new breakouts.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and swelling associated with active acne lesions.
  • Sebum regulating: Helps control excess oil production for a longer-lasting matte finish.
Listed near the end of the INCI list, indicating low concentration. May increase sun sensitivity; use SPF during the day.

Charcoal Powder N/APromising

A natural-origin absorbent that draws out impurities, excess oil, and toxins from the skin surface. Gives the product its distinctive black colour and helps purify oily, congested skin.

  • Absorption: Known for its high surface area that traps oil and impurities effectively.
  • Purifying: Helps unclog pores and reduce the appearance of blackheads.

Glycerin ~3-5%Proven

A powerful humectant (third listed ingredient) that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier. Provides the 48-hour hydration claim of this product.

  • Hydration: One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare.
  • Barrier support: Strengthens the skin's protective layer to prevent transepidermal water loss.

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate N/AProven

Derived from licorice root, this soothing anti-inflammatory ingredient calms irritation and redness. Also has sebum-regulating properties that complement the mattifying action of the formula.

  • Soothing: Reduces inflammation and redness from active breakouts.
  • Sebum control: Helps regulate oil production according to manufacturer data.

28 ingredients

Aqua / Water, Niacinamide, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Cetearyl Isononanoate, Sodium Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Silica, Silica Silylate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Charcoal Powder, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Lactic Acid, Maltodextrin, Xanthan Gum, Polyglycerin-10, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Salicylic Acid, CI 17200 / Red 33, CI 19140 / Yellow 5, CI 42090 / Blue 1, Parfum / Fragrance.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Silicones, Oils, Animal-Origin Ingredients, Mineral Oil, Sulfates, Phthalates
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
This Product
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use morning and evening after cleansing. Apply before sunscreen in AM routine. Pair with Garnier AHA+BHA Charcoal Serum for enhanced results.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. The product works best on clean, dry skin.

2

Take a Pea-Sized Amount

Scoop a small pea-sized amount from the jar. The black gel colour is normal and will turn transparent on your skin.

3

Apply to Face & Neck

Dot the product across your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently massage in upward motions until fully absorbed. Avoid the eye area.

4

Follow with Sunscreen (Morning)

In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. AHA and BHA can increase sun sensitivity.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
  • You struggle with blemishes, blackheads, or enlarged pores
  • You want a lightweight moisturizer that won't feel heavy or greasy
  • You prefer an all-in-one product that hydrates and mattifies simultaneously
  • You want a budget-friendly option with proven active ingredients
  • You need a non-comedogenic, silicone-free formula

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have dry or dehydrated skin that needs richer, more emollient moisture
  • You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
  • You are highly sensitive to fragrance or alcohol in skincare
  • You are pregnant and prefer to completely avoid salicylic acid
  • You want a fragrance-free formula with zero potential irritants
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Specifically designed for oily skin. Controls shine all day, absorbs excess sebum with charcoal and silica, and leaves a lasting matte finish without drying.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances oily T-zone while hydrating drier cheek areas. Lightweight gel texture won't overwhelm any face zone.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic formula with AHA, BHA, and niacinamide actively targets blemishes and blackheads while preventing new breakouts.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. However, contains alcohol denat. and fragrance which may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test first.

Dry Skin
Moderate

While it offers 48-hour hydration, the mattifying action and alcohol content may leave dry skin feeling under-moisturized, especially in winter. Layer over a hydrating serum.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2-3
After 1st Use

Instant Mattifying & Hydration

Skin immediately looks rebalanced and less oily. Surface feels hydrated, smooth, and comfortable with a visible matte finish that lasts up to 4 hours.

90% noticed mattifying effect
Week 1-2

Reduced Shine & Smoother Texture

Daily oil control becomes more consistent. Skin texture starts to feel smoother as gentle AHA/BHA exfoliation begins to refine the surface. Pores appear slightly less visible.

75% noticed improved texture
Week 3-4

Visible Blemish Reduction

Pores appear minimized and blemishes become less noticeable. Pimple occurrence reduced by up to 52% and acne mark visibility reduced by up to 50% per clinical testing.

70% noticed fewer blemishes
Month 2-3

Clearer, More Balanced Complexion

Long-term niacinamide benefits become evident: more even skin tone, reduced post-acne marks, better barrier function, and consistently controlled oiliness throughout the day.

65% noticed clearer skin overall
09

Ratings by platform

620+ REVIEWS
Amazon UK
4.3
Rating
180+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users find it doesn't mattify enough for very oily skin types
Boots
4.6
Rating
290+
Reviews
Main complaint: The black colour of the cream can be alarming and may leave residue if not blended properly
LookFantastic
4.4
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Hydration may be insufficient for dry climates or colder months without layering
Chemist Warehouse
4.5
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 50ml jar size may run out quickly with twice-daily use
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Exceptional matte finish that lasts hours without a heavy feel
  • Very lightweight and absorbs instantly into the skin
  • Affordable price point with clinically proven active ingredients
  • Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and silicone-free formula
  • Visibly reduces blemishes and blackheads with consistent use
  • 48-hour hydration claim holds up well for oily skin types
  • Fun, unique black-to-transparent texture experience
  • Vegan and cruelty-free with Leaping Bunny certification

Criticized

  • Black cream can leave slight residue if not massaged in thoroughly
  • Contains alcohol denat. which may cause dryness with long-term use
  • Contains added fragrance, not ideal for fragrance-sensitive users
  • Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe due to ester ingredients
  • 50ml jar size is relatively small for twice-daily application
  • May not be hydrating enough for dry or dehydrated skin types
  • Jar packaging is less hygienic than a pump or tube dispenser
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
$5.90
Budget Pick

Higher niacinamide concentration at 10% with added zinc for sebum control. Serum format rather than cream, so you would need a separate moisturizer. No AHA/BHA or charcoal, but stronger niacinamide action at a fraction of the price.

72% Match
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
$13.00
Budget Pick

Lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with birch sap for hydration. Lacks the AHA/BHA exfoliation and charcoal purification, but is fungal acne safe and fragrance-free. Better for sensitive skin but weaker on oil control.

68% Match
Hydro Boost Water Gel
$19.99
Similar Price

Hyaluronic acid-based water gel that provides excellent lightweight hydration. Oil-free and non-comedogenic but lacks AHA, BHA, niacinamide, and charcoal. Better for hydration, weaker on mattifying and blemish-fighting.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
EFFACLAR K+
Key Actives Sebulyse + Perlite + LHA
Size 40ml
Oil Control 8-hour mattifying
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Exfoliation Mild (LHA only)
Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel
Key Actives Ceramides + Niacinamide + HA
Size 52ml
Oil Control Moderate mattifying
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Exfoliation None
Gentle Clear Acne Mattifying Moisturizer
Key Actives 0.5% Salicylic Acid + Niacinamide
Size 89ml
Oil Control Moderate mattifying
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No
Exfoliation Mild (BHA only)
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the jar lid tightly closed after each use to prevent the formula from drying out.

Packaging

Black screw-top jar (50ml). Jar packaging; consider using a clean spatula to maintain hygiene.

Travel Friendly

Yes, under 100ml — compliant with airline carry-on liquid regulations.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. This product contains salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally considered safe by dermatologists at concentrations below 2% for topical use during pregnancy. The salicylic acid concentration in this formula is very low (listed near the end of the INCI list). However, if you prefer to be extra cautious, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use, especially during the first trimester. It also contains lactic acid (AHA) at a low concentration, which is typically regarded as safe during pregnancy. There are no retinoids or hydroquinone in this formula.

No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ester-based ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including cetearyl isononanoate, polyglyceryl-10 myristate, polyglyceryl-10 stearate, and polyglyceryl-2 isostearate. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives such as the COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion or a simple gel moisturizer with a verified FA-safe ingredient list.

This product already contains low-concentration AHA (lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid), so layering additional strong AHA/BHA products on top may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. You can use it with vitamin C in the morning (apply vitamin C serum first, then this cream). For retinol, use retinol at night and this cream in the morning, or alternate nights. If combining with other actives, introduce one product at a time and monitor your skin for any signs of sensitivity.

This cream is specifically formulated for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin. It excels at controlling excess shine, reducing blackheads, and providing lightweight hydration without greasiness. It is also dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. However, if you have very dry skin, you may find it insufficiently moisturizing on its own — layer it over a hydrating serum for extra moisture.

Mattifying and hydration effects are immediate from the first use. Skin texture improvement typically becomes noticeable within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Visible blemish and blackhead reduction generally occurs after 3-4 weeks. Garnier's clinical testing showed a 52% reduction in pimples and up to 50% reduction in acne mark visibility after 28 days of regular use. Full results with even skin tone continue to improve up to 8-12 weeks.

Apply this cream as your moisturizer step, after cleansing, toning, and any serums you use. In the morning, follow it with sunscreen (SPF 30+). At night, it can be your final step. Use a pea-sized amount on clean, dry skin and massage gently until absorbed. For best results, Garnier recommends pairing it with their AHA+BHA Charcoal Serum applied before the cream.

No. This product is officially rated as non-comedogenic by Garnier with a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula is oil-free and silicone-free, specifically designed to avoid pore congestion. The active ingredients (niacinamide, AHA, BHA, charcoal) actually work to unclog pores and reduce blackheads. However, note that individual skin reactions vary, so if you notice any congestion, discontinue use.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed. As the product comes in a jar format, use a clean spatula or thoroughly washed hands to scoop out product to minimize contamination and extend shelf life. Discard if you notice any changes in colour, texture, or smell.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Garnier AHA+BHA Charcoal Daily Mattifying Air Cream is an excellent budget-friendly mattifying moisturizer for oily and blemish-prone skin. Its 3-in-1 formula combining niacinamide, AHA, BHA, and charcoal delivers on its promise of oil control, hydration, and blemish reduction — all in a fun, unique black-to-transparent texture. At its price point, it offers impressive active ingredient performance rivalling products costing twice as much. The main drawbacks are the presence of fragrance and alcohol, the jar packaging, and it is not fungal acne safe. Overall, if you have oily or combination skin and want an affordable daily moisturizer with proven actives, this is a strong choice that punches well above its price tag.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Citric Acid Lactic Acid
brightening Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Citric Acid Lactic Acid Salicylic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Salicylic Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
3 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
57% 10% 32%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 28 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Alcohol Denat.
1 B
Cetearyl Isononanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS