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AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum

AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A bi-phase exfoliating serum with 14.5% Centella Asiatica and 10,000 ppm Tea Tree Leaf Water. This triple-acid formula combines AHA, BHA, and PHA to gently resurface skin, unclog pores, and boost radiance while soothing irritation and strengthening the skin barrier. pH 5.5 balanced for sensitive skin compatibility.

Dermatologically Tested pH 5.5 Balanced Free of 20 Harmful Ingredients Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Silicone-Free Triple Acid Complex (AHA+BHA+PHA) Passed Skin Irritation Test
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
50ml / 1.69 oz
pH Level
5.5
Key Active
14.5% Centella
Type
Bi-Phase Serum
Concern
Acne & Pores
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Triple Acid Exfoliation

AHA (glycolic, lactic, citric acid) exfoliates the surface, BHA (wintergreen extract) unclogs pores from within, and PHA (lactobionic acid) gently resurfaces while hydrating.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Bi-phase oil-serum
Scent
Light herbal (tea tree)
Absorption
15–30 seconds
Finish
Dewy, non-sticky

Triple Acid Exfoliation

AHA (glycolic, lactic, citric acid) exfoliates the surface, BHA (wintergreen extract) unclogs pores from within, and PHA (lactobionic acid) gently resurfaces while hydrating.

14.5% Centella Asiatica

High concentration of cica extract soothes irritated and inflamed skin, strengthens the skin barrier, and supports collagen production for scar healing.

10,000 ppm Tea Tree Water

Natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps control sebum, fight acne-causing bacteria, and calm redness without harsh drying effects.

Niacinamide Brightening

Vitamin B3 helps fade post-acne marks, even out skin tone, minimize pore appearance, and regulate oil production for a clearer complexion.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, and wintergreen leaf extract (natural BHA/salicylic acid source). While concentrations are very low (ppb range), most dermatologists advise caution with AHAs/BHAs during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not fungal acne safe. Contains Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, which are known triggers for malassezia folliculitis. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Despite containing olive oil (moderately comedogenic alone), the overall formula is lightweight and has passed non-comedogenic testing. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

Dermatologically Tested

Has passed skin irritation tests for sensitive skin. The pH 5.5 formulation is gentle enough for daily use on most skin types, though the acids may tingle on very reactive skin.

Contains Alcohol (Denat.)

Alcohol appears mid-list in the INCI, suggesting a moderate concentration. It helps the bi-phase formula absorb quickly but may be drying for very dry or compromised skin barriers.

Sunscreen Required

AHAs and BHAs increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day when using this serum, even on cloudy days.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Centella Asiatica Extract 14.5%Proven

A powerhouse soothing ingredient also known as cica or gotu kola. Contains four key compounds — madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid — that work together to calm inflammation, accelerate wound healing, and stimulate collagen synthesis.

  • Clinical evidence: Studies show centella asiatica promotes collagen type I synthesis and reduces inflammation markers in skin cells.
  • Concentration: 14.5% (14,770 ppm) is a high therapeutic concentration, well above the typical 1–5% found in most cica products.
  • Benefit: Soothes post-acne redness, supports scar healing, and strengthens the skin barrier.
One of the highest centella concentrations in a K-beauty serum — ideal for calming acne-inflamed skin.

Tea Tree Leaf Water 10,000 ppmProven

Melaleuca alternifolia leaf water provides natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Unlike concentrated tea tree oil, tea tree water is gentler and less likely to cause irritation while still offering acne-fighting properties.

  • Clinical evidence: Tea tree oil/water has demonstrated effectiveness against P. acnes bacteria in multiple clinical trials.
  • Concentration: 10,000 ppm (1%) — a meaningful amount for antibacterial activity without the harshness of pure tea tree oil.
  • Benefit: Controls sebum, fights blemish-causing bacteria, and reduces redness.

AHA Complex (Glycolic, Lactic, Citric, Malic, Tartaric, Pyruvic Acid) Trace (ppb)Proven

A blend of six alpha-hydroxy acids that work on the skin surface to dissolve the bonds between dead cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath. The multi-acid approach provides gentle yet effective exfoliation.

  • Glycolic Acid (3,150 ppb): Smallest AHA molecule; penetrates deepest for brightening and collagen stimulation.
  • Lactic Acid (3,150 ppb): Gentle AHA that also moisturizes; great for sensitive skin.
  • Citric Acid (7,875 ppb): Antioxidant AHA that helps even skin tone.
Concentrations are in the ppb (parts per billion) range — extremely low. This provides mild, cumulative exfoliation rather than intensive chemical peel effects. Apply sunscreen daily.

BHA — Wintergreen Leaf Extract 105 ppmProven

Gaultheria procumbens (wintergreen) leaf extract is a natural source of methyl salicylate, which converts to salicylic acid on the skin. BHA is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate inside pores and dissolve sebum plugs and impurities.

  • Mechanism: Oil-soluble BHA penetrates pore lining to clear out trapped sebum, dead cells, and bacteria.
  • Concentration: 105 ppm — a gentle dose suitable for daily use without over-stripping the skin.
  • Benefit: Unclogs blackheads and whiteheads, controls oil, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

PHA — Lactobionic Acid 105 ppmPromising

A next-generation polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates as gently as AHAs but with added humectant and antioxidant benefits. Larger molecular size means less penetration and less irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

  • Clinical evidence: PHAs are shown to improve skin texture, hydration, and barrier function with significantly less irritation than glycolic acid.
  • Bonus: Acts as a humectant (attracts moisture) and antioxidant, unlike traditional AHAs.
  • Benefit: Smooths and brightens skin while retaining moisture — ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Not disclosedProven

A multitasking ingredient that brightens, minimizes pores, regulates sebum, and strengthens the skin barrier. Works well at concentrations of 2–5%, and appears mid-list in this formula.

  • Clinical evidence: Extensive research supports niacinamide for reducing hyperpigmentation, improving skin elasticity, and decreasing sebum production.
  • Synergy: Complements AHAs/BHAs by calming irritation and supporting barrier repair after exfoliation.

62 ingredients

Water, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract (14.77%), Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Propanediol, Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water (10,000ppm), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis (Baikal Skullcap) Root Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum (Japanese Knotweed) Root Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Sodium Lactate (18,375ppb), Sodium PCA (7,875ppb), Citric Acid (7,875ppb), Lactic Acid (3,150ppb), Malic Acid (3,150ppb), Glycolic Acid (3,150ppb), Pyruvic Acid (525ppb), Tartaric Acid (10.5ppb), Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract (105ppm), Lactobionic Acid (105ppm), Pentylene Glycol, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Leaf Extract, Syringa Vulgaris (Lilac) Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Angelica Keiskei Extract, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Phragmites Communis Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Corchorus Olitorius Leaf Extract, Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Carbomer, Arginine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Algin, Adenosine, Benzyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Raspberry Ketone, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Disodium EDTA

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Mineral Oil, Silicones, Formaldehyde, Hydroquinone, Triclosan, Phthalates, Oxybenzone, Coal Tar, Talc, Benzophenone, BHA/BHT synthetic antioxidants, Triethanolamine, PEGs, Propylene Glycol, Artificial Colors, Animal-Derived Ingredients, Microplastics, Heavy Metals
04

Where it fits in your routine

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

Shake well before use. Apply after toner as your treatment step. Can be used AM & PM, but always follow with sunscreen in the morning. Best results when paired with the full Some By Mi 30 Days Miracle line.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Shake the Bottle

This is a bi-phase serum with an oil layer and a serum layer. Shake well before each use to combine the two phases for optimal efficacy.

2

Dispense 3–4 Drops

After cleansing and toning, use the dropper to apply 3–4 drops onto your palm or directly onto your cheeks and forehead.

3

Pat Gently Into Skin

Spread evenly across face and neck, then gently pat with fingertips to aid absorption. Avoid rubbing to minimize irritation.

4

Follow With Moisturizer & SPF

Lock in the serum with a moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen SPF 30+ as acids increase sun sensitivity.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have acne-prone or oily skin and want gentle daily exfoliation
  • You struggle with clogged pores, blackheads, or rough texture
  • You want to fade post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
  • You prefer a multi-acid approach that is gentler than pure AHA peels
  • You have combination skin and need oil control without over-drying
  • You want a soothing serum that treats and calms at the same time

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (malassezia) — contains known triggers
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — contains AHAs and natural BHA
  • You have extremely dry skin and need heavy hydration
  • You are sensitive to alcohol (denat.) in skincare
  • You want high-concentration single-acid exfoliation for faster results
  • You are allergic to essential oils (contains peppermint, geranium, orange peel oil)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

BHA unclogs pores, tea tree controls sebum, and the lightweight bi-phase formula absorbs quickly without adding shine.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances oily T-zone and drier cheeks effectively. The oil-serum bi-phase format delivers hydration where needed while controlling shine.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

The AHA/BHA/PHA trio tackles acne from multiple angles — clearing pores, killing bacteria, and speeding cell turnover to prevent new breakouts.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Very low acid concentrations and high centella content make it gentler than most exfoliating serums. Patch test first — essential oils may irritate very reactive skin.

Dry Skin
Moderate

The oil phase provides some nourishment, but the alcohol content and exfoliating acids may be drying. Layer with a rich moisturizer and use every other day.

08

Results timeline

WEEKS 6–8
Week 1

Initial Smoothing & Calming

Skin feels smoother to the touch. Centella and tea tree begin calming active inflammation and redness. Slight tingling is normal for the first few applications.

65% noticed smoother texture
Weeks 2–3

Pore Clearing & Brightness Boost

AHA/BHA/PHA exfoliation ramps up. Blackheads begin to loosen, skin looks brighter, and minor breakouts may occur as pores purge. Texture becomes visibly refined.

70% noticed brighter skin
Week 4 (30 Days)

Visible Acne Reduction & Even Tone

This is the milestone the product is named for. Most users report significantly fewer breakouts, faded post-acne marks, and a more even, radiant complexion.

75% noticed fewer breakouts
Weeks 6–8

Long-Term Skin Transformation

With continued use, acne scars continue to fade, pores appear smaller, and overall skin health improves as the barrier strengthens. Skin looks clearer and more resilient.

80% reported overall improvement
09

Ratings by platform

19K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.4
Rating
14,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users found the oily bi-phase texture too heavy or sticky for their skin
iHerb
4.3
Rating
2,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Mixed opinions on scent — some found the herbal fragrance too strong
YesStyle
4.5
Rating
1,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 50ml bottle runs out quickly with daily use
Stylevana
4.4
Rating
900+
Reviews
Main complaint: Results take time — some expected faster dramatic changes
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Triple acid exfoliation is gentle enough for daily use without irritation
  • High concentration of centella (14.5%) provides excellent soothing and scar healing
  • Noticeably smoother, brighter skin within the first 2 weeks
  • Effective at reducing active breakouts and preventing new ones
  • Affordable K-beauty price point for a multi-active serum
  • Free from 20 types of potentially harmful ingredients
  • Absorbs quickly and layers well under moisturizer and sunscreen

Criticized

  • Bi-phase oily texture may feel heavy for very oily skin types
  • Contains essential oils (peppermint, geranium, orange) that may irritate sensitive skin
  • Contains alcohol (denat.) which can be drying for compromised barriers
  • Small 50ml bottle may not last a full month with twice-daily use
  • Acid concentrations are very low — may disappoint those wanting intensive exfoliation
  • Not fungal acne safe due to oils and esters in the formula
  • Herbal tea tree scent is polarizing — some love it, some find it too strong
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
$13.00
Budget Pick

Contains AHA (glycolic acid) and BHA (betaine salicylate) in a watery toner format. Simpler formula without the centella or tea tree, but effective for gentle daily exfoliation at a lower price. Better for fungal acne-prone skin.

72% Match
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
$7.90
Budget Pick

Far more potent exfoliation (30% AHA + 2% BHA) but used only as a 10-minute weekly mask, not daily. No soothing centella or tea tree. Best for those wanting intense, occasional peeling at a fraction of the price.

68% Match
NACIFIC Origin Red Salicylic Acid Serum
$15.00
Similar Price

Korean serum focused on BHA (salicylic acid) for pore clearing and acne control. Lacks the triple-acid approach and high centella content, but may be better for oily skin specifically targeting blackheads.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
Key Actives Betaine Salicylate 4%
Size 100ml
Acid Strength Moderate (4% BHA)
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Blackheads & oily skin specifically
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Key Actives Salicylic Acid 2%
Size 118ml
Acid Strength Strong (2% SA)
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Stubborn blackheads & serious acne
Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Key Actives Centella Asiatica 100%
Size 100ml
Acid Strength None (soothing only)
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Pure soothing & barrier repair
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 and heat. Keep cap tightly sealed. Ideal temperature: 15–25°C (59–77°F).

Packaging

Dark green glass dropper bottle that protects light-sensitive ingredients and allows precise dispensing of 3–4 drops per use.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact dropper bottle fits easily in a toiletry bag.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. This serum contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, and wintergreen leaf extract (a natural source of salicylic acid/BHA). While the concentrations are extremely low (measured in parts per billion), most dermatologists and OB-GYNs recommend avoiding AHAs and BHAs during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider before use. Safer alternatives during pregnancy include pure centella or niacinamide serums without exfoliating acids.

No, this serum is not fungal acne safe. It contains several known malassezia triggers including Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (an ester), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (fractionated coconut oil), and Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), consider fungal acne-safe alternatives like the COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid or the Some By Mi 30 Days Miracle Toner, which does not contain these triggers.

It is best to avoid layering this serum with other strong actives in the same routine. Using retinol, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), or additional AHA/BHA exfoliants at the same time can over-exfoliate and compromise your skin barrier, leading to irritation, redness, and peeling. Instead, alternate them — for example, use this serum in the evening and vitamin C in the morning, or use retinol on nights you skip this serum. If you must combine, introduce gradually and monitor your skin closely.

This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The triple-acid complex helps control excess sebum, clear clogged pores, and prevent breakouts, while the high centella content soothes inflammation. It is also suitable for sensitive skin thanks to the very low acid concentrations and pH 5.5 formulation, though a patch test is recommended. Those with very dry skin may find the alcohol content drying and should pair it with a rich moisturizer.

Most users report noticeable improvements within 2–4 weeks of consistent use. In the first week, skin typically feels smoother and calmer. By weeks 2–3, skin brightness improves and pores begin to clear. The product is named "30 Days Miracle" because the brand targets visible acne reduction and skin transformation by the one-month mark. However, deeper concerns like acne scars and hyperpigmentation may take 6–8 weeks for significant fading. Individual results vary based on skin type and severity of concerns.

Apply this serum as step 3 in your routine, after cleansing and toning but before moisturizer. Shake well, dispense 3–4 drops, and pat gently into skin. In the morning, follow with sunscreen (SPF 30+). It can be used both morning and evening, but if you are new to acids, start with evening-only application and gradually increase frequency. Do not use with other exfoliating products in the same routine.

The serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and has passed non-comedogenic testing. While it does contain olive oil (which can be moderately comedogenic on its own), the overall formula is lightweight and designed for acne-prone skin. The exfoliating acids actively work to keep pores clear, counteracting any potential pore-clogging effects. Most users with oily and acne-prone skin report no pore congestion issues. However, if your skin is particularly reactive to oils, patch test first.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 50ml dropper bottle typically lasts 4–6 weeks with twice-daily use (3–4 drops per application), or up to 2 months with once-daily use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The dark glass bottle helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation. If the color, texture, or scent changes significantly, discontinue use even if within the 12-month window.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum is a solid all-in-one treatment for acne-prone and oily skin. Its strength lies in the combination of gentle triple-acid exfoliation with a high concentration of soothing centella asiatica (14.5%) and antibacterial tea tree — treating breakouts while calming the skin rather than aggravating it. However, the acid concentrations are in the ppb range, making this a mild daily maintenance product rather than an intensive exfoliant. It is not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to oils and esters in the formula, and the essential oils may be a concern for very sensitive skin. At its price point, it delivers excellent value for anyone seeking a gentle, multi-tasking K-beauty serum that addresses acne, texture, and dullness simultaneously.

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Product Overview

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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.

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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

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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

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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
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
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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
% % % %