AHA + BHA Mild Exfoliating Foaming Wash
AHA + BHA Mild Exfoliating Foaming Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH-balanced foaming cleanser with dual-action AHA (Glycolic Acid) and BHA (Salicylic Acid) that mildly exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and polishes away dullness — all while keeping skin hydrated with glycerin and Moringa seed extract. Formulated with amino acid-based surfactants for a soft, non-stripping cleanse.
Dual AHA + BHA Exfoliation
Glycolic Acid (AHA) gently resurfaces the skin while Salicylic Acid (BHA) penetrates pores to dissolve oil and debris, tackling both surface dullness and congestion.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual AHA + BHA Exfoliation
Glycolic Acid (AHA) gently resurfaces the skin while Salicylic Acid (BHA) penetrates pores to dissolve oil and debris, tackling both surface dullness and congestion.
Amino Acid Surfactants
Formulated with Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate and Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate — ultra-mild, plant-derived cleansing agents that won't strip your skin barrier.
Anti-Pollution Shield
Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract purifies skin and helps defend against environmental pollutants and heavy metal particles that can accelerate skin aging.
Hydrating While Cleansing
Contains Glycerin, Sodium Lactate (part of skin's natural moisturizing factor), and Biosaccharide Gum-4 so skin feels soft and hydrated after washing — never tight.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA). While used at low concentration in a wash-off product, many dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, which some databases flag as potentially feeding Malassezia yeast. Patch test if you are prone to fungal acne.
Uses amino acid-based surfactants that are gentle enough for baby skin. pH balanced and free from common irritants like fragrances, alcohol, and sulfates.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. Lightweight foaming formula with no heavy oils or waxes — unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
AHA (Glycolic Acid) can increase photosensitivity. Always apply sunscreen during the day when using this product, especially for morning use.
All ingredients are plant-derived or synthetic. No animal-derived ingredients detected in the formulation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid (AHA) <2%Proven
The most researched and well-known alpha hydroxy acid. In this foaming wash, it gently loosens bonds between dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin underneath. Has the smallest molecular size among AHAs for deeper penetration.
- Function: Chemical exfoliant — removes dead skin cells and improves texture
- Research: Proven to stimulate collagen production at higher concentrations (>10%); at wash-off levels provides gentle daily resurfacing
- Note: Products should ideally have pH 3–4 for optimal AHA activity
Salicylic Acid (BHA) <0.5%Proven
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that can penetrate into pores to dissolve sebum, blackheads, and trapped debris. Also has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it a gold standard for acne-prone skin.
- Function: Pore-clearing exfoliant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial
- Research: FDA-recognized OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2% concentration
- Benefit: Unlike AHAs, BHA works inside pores — effective for blackheads and whiteheads
Moringa Oleifera Seed ExtractPromising
A natural purifying ingredient extracted from the "miracle tree." Acts as an anti-pollution agent by helping to remove heavy metals and environmental pollutants from the skin's surface while providing antioxidant protection.
- Function: Anti-pollution, detoxifying, antioxidant
- Research: Studies show it reduces the adhesion of pollutant particles on skin and helps remove heavy metals
Disodium Cocoyl GlutamateProven
A premium amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut oil and glutamic acid. One of the mildest cleansing agents available — gentle enough for sensitive and baby skin. Creates a soft, creamy lather without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Function: Primary cleansing agent (surfactant)
- Benefit: Exceptionally mild, maintains skin barrier integrity during cleansing
Phytic AcidPromising
A gentle AHA-class exfoliant and antioxidant derived from plants. Also functions as a chelating agent to neutralize metal ions in the formula. Provides a mild, supportive exfoliating effect alongside the primary glycolic and salicylic acids.
- Function: Mild exfoliant, antioxidant, chelating agent
- Research: Shown to have skin-brightening and anti-inflammatory properties
Glycerin & Sodium LactateProven
A classic hydrating duo. Glycerin is a humectant naturally found in the skin that draws moisture in. Sodium Lactate is a component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and helps regulate pH. Together they ensure the cleanser doesn't leave skin dry or tight.
- Function: Humectants, moisture retention, pH regulation
- Benefit: Maintains skin hydration during and after cleansing
16 ingredients
Water, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Tea-Cocoyl Alaninate, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Sodium Lactate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Glycolic Acid, Hydroxyacetophenone, Salicylic Acid, Phytic Acid, Glycerin, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-4, 1,2-Hexanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser (after oil cleanser) in a double cleansing routine, or as your only cleanser in the morning. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water to dampen the skin. This helps the cleanser spread and foam more easily.
Dispense Product
Pump 2–3 pumps of foam into your palm (pump bottle), or squeeze a small amount onto wet hands and lather (tube version).
Gently Massage
Apply the foam to your face using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on oily zones, blackhead-prone areas, and the T-zone.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and continue with your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle daily exfoliating cleanser
- You struggle with blackheads, clogged pores, or dull skin
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin
- You want a second cleanser for double cleansing
- You're looking for an affordable J-beauty acid cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains Salicylic Acid)
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin (may feel slightly drying)
- You need a high-concentration acid treatment (this is a wash-off product)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate concern)
- You want a one-step makeup-removing cleanser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBHA penetrates oily pores to dissolve excess sebum. Users report reduced oiliness and fewer breakouts with regular use.
Balances well across the T-zone and cheeks. AHA + BHA address oily areas without over-drying the rest of the face.
Provides gentle daily exfoliation to maintain smooth, clear skin. Keeps pores clean without disrupting a healthy barrier.
Amino acid surfactants are very gentle, but the AHA/BHA may cause mild tingling. Start every other day and patch test first.
Some users report slight dryness or tightness. Glycerin helps, but follow with a rich moisturizer. May be better as an evening-only cleanser.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). BHA is a proven acne fighter that unclogs pores and reduces inflammation. Ideal for acne maintenance.
Results timeline
MONTHS 2–3Cleaner, Smoother Feel
Skin feels immediately cleaner and smoother after each wash. Surface dullness begins to improve as dead cells are gently removed.
85% noticed smoother texturePores Look Clearer
Blackheads and whiteheads start to diminish as BHA works inside pores. Skin tone begins to look more even and bright.
70% noticed fewer blackheadsVisible Radiance & Fewer Breakouts
Consistent use reveals noticeably brighter, more refined skin. Breakout frequency reduces as pores stay consistently clean.
65% noticed brighter complexionLong-Term Clarity
Skin texture continues to improve. Pores appear minimized and overall skin health is maintained with daily use. Best results paired with a complete routine.
60% reported sustained improvementRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — doesn't strip or leave skin tight
- Effective at reducing blackheads and sebaceous filaments
- Short, clean ingredient list (only 16 ingredients)
- Fragrance-free and free from common irritants
- Affordable price point for a J-beauty acid cleanser
- Creates a rich, soft foam that feels luxurious
- Skin looks brighter and smoother with consistent use
- Great as a second cleanser in a double cleansing routine
Criticized
- Acid concentrations are low — too mild for some users
- Foaming pump version runs out faster than expected
- Can feel slightly drying for very dry skin types
- Not effective as a makeup remover on its own
- Some users report mild tingling on sensitive areas
- Multiple variants can be confusing (tube vs pump, different formulas)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains BHA (salicylic acid) with tea tree oil for added anti-acne benefits. No AHA component. Slightly stronger formula with a creamy texture rather than foam. 150ml size.
Higher BHA concentration (2% salicylic acid) plus zinc for oil control. Gel texture, not foaming. More potent for acne but lacks the AHA exfoliation and gentle amino acid surfactants. 150ml.
Features salicylic acid with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for barrier support. No AHA. Larger bottle (237ml) but uses more traditional surfactants rather than amino acid-based ones.
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 after each use.
Foaming pump bottle (160ml) or squeeze tube with flip-cap (130g). Hygiene seal included.
Tube version (130g) is under 100ml equivalent — carry-on friendly. Pump bottle (160ml) may need to go in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which many healthcare providers advise avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding — even at low concentrations. While it is a wash-off product with a short skin contact time, it is best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. Glycolic Acid (AHA) at low concentrations in wash-off products is generally considered acceptable during pregnancy, but the BHA component is the concern.
This product contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, which some fungal acne databases (like SkinSort and Skincarisma) flag as potentially feeding Malassezia yeast. However, since this is a wash-off product with very brief skin contact, the risk is lower than with leave-on products. If you have confirmed fungal acne, patch test first or consider a cleanser with a fully fungal-acne-safe ingredient list.
Yes, since this is a wash-off cleanser with low acid concentrations, it is generally safe to pair with other actives. However, if you use a strong leave-on AHA, BHA, or retinol in the same routine, you may want to use this cleanser only in the morning (and a gentler cleanser at night) to avoid over-exfoliation. Vitamin C can be used in the same routine without issue. Always listen to your skin — if you experience irritation, scale back.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types. Its amino acid surfactants are gentle enough for sensitive skin (start slowly), though very dry skin types may find it slightly drying — in that case, use it only once daily or every other day, and follow with a rich moisturizer.
Most users notice smoother, cleaner-feeling skin within the first week. Visible improvement in blackheads and skin brightness typically appears within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. For long-term pore refinement and reduced breakouts, give it 6–8 weeks. Results are best when paired with a complete skincare routine including sunscreen.
Use it as Step 2 in a double cleansing routine (after an oil or balm cleanser), or as your primary cleanser in the morning. Follow with toner, essence/serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). In the evening, use after removing makeup with an oil cleanser, then follow with your treatment products and night cream.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. It contains no heavy oils, waxes, or silicones. The BHA (salicylic acid) actually helps to unclog existing pores. This makes it a great choice for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With twice-daily use, the 160ml foaming pump bottle typically lasts 2–3 months, while the 130g tube version can last 3–4 months since you use less product per wash. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap closed for best shelf life.
Verdict: The Hada Labo AHA + BHA Mild Exfoliating Foaming Wash is an excellent daily cleanser for anyone seeking gentle chemical exfoliation without the harshness. Its standout strengths are the ultra-mild amino acid surfactants, minimal 16-ingredient formula, and effective AHA + BHA combination — a rare dual-acid approach in a cleanser at this price point. It won't deliver dramatic peeling results (the acid concentrations are low), but that's by design: this is about consistent, gentle daily exfoliation that keeps pores clear and skin bright over time. Best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. A solid J-beauty staple that earns its cult following.
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 2 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|