AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A multi-tasking exfoliating cleanser featuring a powerful trio of AHAs and BHA (glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids) combined with physical jojoba beads to polish away dull, dry skin and reveal a smoother, brighter complexion without irritation.
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
Combines glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores for maximum resurfacing benefits.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Acid Exfoliation
Combines glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores for maximum resurfacing benefits.
Physical + Chemical
Biodegradable jojoba beads provide gentle physical exfoliation while acids deliver chemical exfoliation for dual-action results.
Hydration Support
Sodium PCA and urea help skin attract and retain moisture, preventing the dryness often associated with exfoliating products.
Soothing Formula
Licorice extract (Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate) calms skin and reduces irritation for a comfortable exfoliating experience.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). While low-concentration topical products are generally considered safe by ACOG, consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains glycol stearate and fermented ingredient (Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate) which may feed malassezia.
Contains soothing licorice extract and is designed to exfoliate without irritation. However, patch test recommended for very sensitive skin.
AHAs and BHA increase sun sensitivity. Always use SPF during the day when using this product, even if applied at night.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid AHAGold Standard
The most researched and well-known AHA derived from sugar cane. Smallest molecular size allows deepest penetration for maximum exfoliation and brightening.
- Mechanism: Breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover
- Benefits: Reduces fine lines, brightens skin, improves texture and tone
- Research: Proven to boost collagen production at higher concentrations (10%+)
Lactic Acid AHAGentle + Hydrating
A gentler AHA derived from milk fermentation. Larger molecular size means less irritation while still providing effective exfoliation with added moisturizing benefits.
- Mechanism: Exfoliates while attracting moisture to the skin
- Benefits: Improves skin firmness, thickness, and reduces wrinkles
- Bonus: Acts as a humectant, drawing water into the skin
Salicylic Acid BHAPore-Clearing
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that can penetrate into pores for deep cleaning. The gold standard for treating acne and blackheads.
- Mechanism: Dissolves oil and debris inside pores
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, controls oil, reduces inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory: Related to aspirin, helps calm irritated skin
Jojoba Esters Physical ExfoliantEco-Friendly
Biodegradable spherical beads derived from jojoba oil. Provide gentle physical exfoliation without micro-scratches like crushed shell or nut particles.
- Shape: Round, smooth beads that won't cause micro-tears
- Eco-friendly: Biodegradable alternative to plastic microbeads
- Bonus: Similar to skin's natural sebum, provides mild moisturizing
Sodium PCA HumectantHydration
A naturally occurring component of skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). Helps skin attract and retain moisture.
- Source: Derived from amino acids naturally found in skin
- Function: Binds water to the skin's surface
- Benefit: Prevents dehydration from exfoliating acids
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate Licorice ExtractSoothing
Derived from licorice root, this powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient helps calm skin and reduce redness and irritation from exfoliation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation
- Brightening: Can help fade dark spots over time
- Soothing: Makes exfoliation more comfortable
30 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Jojoba Esters, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycol Stearate, Propanediol, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Sodium PCA, Urea, Yeast Amino Acids, Trehalose, Inositol, Taurine, Betaine, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Polyquaternium-4, Sodium Chloride, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 2-3 times weekly as a replacement for your regular cleanser. Can be used AM or PM. Always follow with SPF during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Face
Wet your face and neck with lukewarm water to prepare skin for cleansing.
Apply & Massage
Dispense a small amount (dime-sized) onto fingertips and gently massage over face and neck in circular motions for 30-60 seconds.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing.
Follow Up
Continue with your regular skincare routine (toner, serum, moisturizer). Apply SPF if using in the morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, lackluster skin that needs brightening
- You struggle with rough, uneven skin texture
- You want both chemical and physical exfoliation in one step
- You have clogged pores, blackheads, or occasional breakouts
- You want to improve absorption of your other skincare products
- You prefer a gentle exfoliator suitable for 2-3x weekly use
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - this product is NOT FA-safe
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have very sensitive skin that reacts to acids
- You're already using strong actives (retinol, vitamin C) and want to avoid over-exfoliation
- You prefer fragrance-free products (contains <1% synthetic fragrance)
- You need a daily cleanser - this is for 2-3x weekly use only
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSalicylic acid deeply cleanses pores while controlling excess oil production. Perfect for managing shine and preventing breakouts.
Balances oily T-zone while lactic acid provides hydration to drier areas. Ideal for mixed skin concerns.
Maintains healthy glow and prevents dullness. Great for weekly maintenance and boosting radiance.
Contains hydrating sodium PCA and lactic acid. Use 1-2x weekly and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Contains soothing licorice extract, but the triple-acid formula may be too strong. Start with once weekly and patch test first.
Salicylic acid unclogs pores while glycolic acid promotes cell turnover to prevent breakouts. Low comedogenic rating.
Results timeline
8-12 WEEKSSmoother, Softer Skin
Skin feels noticeably smoother and softer right after rinsing. Surface dead skin cells are removed for an instant refresh.
95% noticed immediate smoothnessImproved Texture & Clarity
With consistent use 2-3x weekly, skin texture becomes more refined. Pores appear smaller and skin looks clearer.
85% reported improved textureBrighter, More Radiant Complexion
Visible improvement in skin brightness and radiance. Dullness is reduced and skin has a healthy glow.
80% noticed brighter skinReduced Fine Lines & Even Tone
Continued use shows improvement in fine lines, more even skin tone, and reduced hyperpigmentation.
70% saw reduced fine linesRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Leaves skin incredibly soft and smooth after each use
- Triple-acid formula effectively brightens dull skin
- Jojoba beads are gentle, not scratchy
- Doesn't strip or dry out skin despite being an exfoliator
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture
- A little product goes a long way
- Helps reduce blackheads and clogged pores
- Cruelty-free and paraben-free formula
Criticized
- Price is on the higher end for a cleanser
- Not suitable for daily use (2-3x weekly only)
- May be too strong for very sensitive skin types
- Contains fermented ingredient (not FA-safe)
- Increases sun sensitivity - must use SPF
- Some find the beads unnecessary/abrasive
- Not pregnancy-safe without doctor approval
- Tube packaging can be hard to get product out
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains salicylic acid and ceramides. Gentler formula without physical exfoliants. Better for sensitive skin but less comprehensive exfoliation.
Contains 2% salicylic acid with zinc. BHA-only formula without AHAs or physical exfoliants. Great for acne but less brightening.
Glycolic acid-based cleanser at a fraction of the price. No physical exfoliants or BHA. Less comprehensive but more affordable.
Contains salicylic acid in a gentle cleanser. Fragrance-free and better for sensitive skin. No physical exfoliants or AHAs.
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 cap tightly closed.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap
Yes - 2 oz travel size available; 6.75 oz exceeds TSA carry-on limits
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains salicylic acid (BHA), which requires caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers low-concentration topical salicylic acid (2% or less) generally safe, and this is a wash-off product with minimal absorption, it's best to consult your healthcare provider before use. Many dermatologists suggest avoiding BHA products during pregnancy as a precaution.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains glycol stearate and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (a fermented ingredient), both of which can potentially feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant which is FA-safe.
Yes, but with caution. Since this cleanser contains AHAs and BHA, using it with other strong actives like retinol or high-concentration vitamin C may increase irritation. We recommend using this cleanser on different days than your retinol treatments, or using vitamin C in the morning and this cleanser at night. Start slowly and monitor your skin for any signs of over-exfoliation (redness, peeling, sensitivity).
This cleanser works best for normal, oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's excellent for those dealing with dullness, rough texture, clogged pores, and uneven skin tone. Dry skin types can use it 1-2x weekly with a rich moisturizer following. Those with very sensitive skin should patch test first and may want to consider gentler alternatives.
You'll notice smoother, softer skin immediately after the first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use (2-3x weekly), you should see improved texture and clearer pores. Visible brightening and radiance improvements typically appear at 4-6 weeks. For maximum benefits like reduced fine lines and more even tone, expect 8-12 weeks of regular use.
This is a cleanser, so it goes at the very beginning of your skincare routine. Use it on dampened skin, massage for 30-60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with your toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF (if daytime). Use 2-3 times per week in place of your regular cleanser. If using a double cleanse method, this would be your second cleanser after removing makeup with an oil cleanser.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores. In fact, the salicylic acid in the formula actively works to unclog pores by dissolving oil and debris. The glycolic and lactic acids help prevent dead skin cell buildup that can lead to clogged pores. It's specifically designed to promote clearer skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Since this product is recommended for use only 2-3 times per week and a little goes a long way, the 6.75 oz tube should last several months of regular use. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain product efficacy throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: The Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is an excellent choice for anyone looking to transform dull, rough skin into a smoother, brighter complexion. The unique combination of triple-acid exfoliation (glycolic, lactic, and salicylic) with physical jojoba beads delivers noticeable results from the very first use. While the price point is higher than drugstore alternatives, the dermatologist-developed formula with soothing licorice extract makes it worth the investment for most skin types. However, those with fungal acne should look elsewhere, and pregnant/nursing individuals should consult their doctor first. For best results, use 2-3 times weekly and always follow with SPF during the day.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 5 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 |
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Jojoba Esters
Emollient, Moisturising, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Copolymer
|
|