AHA, BHA, PHA, Calming Truecica Micellar Cleansing Water
AHA, BHA, PHA, Calming Truecica Micellar Cleansing Water
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH-balanced micellar cleansing water featuring 20% Truecica complex (tea tree, centella asiatica, and mugwort) combined with AHA, BHA, and PHA acids for mild exfoliation while soothing acne-prone and sensitive skin. No secondary cleansing required.
Truecica Calming Technology
Proprietary blend of tea tree leaf water (20%), centella asiatica, and mugwort extracts to calm and soothe irritated, acne-prone skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTruecica Calming Technology
Proprietary blend of tea tree leaf water (20%), centella asiatica, and mugwort extracts to calm and soothe irritated, acne-prone skin.
Triple Acid Complex
Gentle blend of AHA (Citric Acid), BHA (Salicylic Acid), PHA (Gluconolactone), and LHA for mild exfoliation without irritation.
Triple Micellar Particles
Ultra-fine micellar technology attracts and lifts away makeup, sebum, and impurities from deep within pores like a magnet.
Niacinamide Brightening
Helps control sebum production, minimize pores, and brighten skin tone for a purified, radiant complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid at very low concentration (10 ppm). While generally considered low-risk, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains Lactobacillus Ferment, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Stearate, and Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate which may feed malassezia yeast.
Passed hypoallergenic and skin irritation tests. Free from 20 types of potentially harmful ingredients. pH balanced at 5.5.
Rated 1/5 on comedogenic scale. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types when used as directed.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTea Tree Leaf Water 20%Proven
A powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory botanical that helps calm acne-prone skin, reduce redness, and control excess sebum production.
- Research: Studies show tea tree oil has comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide for acne treatment with fewer side effects.
- Function: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, sebum control
Niacinamide ListedProven
A multi-functional vitamin B3 derivative that brightens skin, minimizes pores, controls sebum, and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Research: 2% niacinamide proven effective for sebum control and skin barrier repair.
- Function: Brightening, pore minimizing, anti-inflammatory, barrier support
Gluconolactone (PHA) 10 ppmProven
A gentle polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates without irritation, provides antioxidant benefits, and helps retain moisture in the skin.
- Research: PHAs provide similar exfoliation to AHAs without increasing sun sensitivity.
- Function: Gentle exfoliation, hydration, antioxidant protection
Salicylic Acid (BHA) + LHA 10 ppmProven
Oil-soluble acids that penetrate pores to dissolve sebum plugs, reduce blackheads, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Research: BHA is FDA-recognized as effective for acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentrations.
- Function: Pore cleansing, anti-acne, anti-inflammatory
Centella Asiatica Complex ListedProven
Contains Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, and Asiatic Acid - the calming trinity from Centella Asiatica known for wound healing and skin repair.
- Research: Centella compounds proven to accelerate wound healing and reduce inflammation.
- Function: Wound healing, anti-inflammatory, skin barrier repair
64 ingredients
Water, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water (20%), Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, C12-14 Pareth-12, Betaine, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Allantoin, Decyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract (10 ppm), Hyaluronic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Salicylic Acid (10 ppm), Tromethamine, Gluconolactone (10 ppm), Citric Acid (10 ppm), Sea Water, Lactobacillus Ferment, Glyceryl Glucoside, Glycerin, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract (2,500 ppb), Dipropylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Panthenol, Asiaticoside (200 ppb), Glucose, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Madecassic Acid (150 ppb), Asiatic Acid (150 ppb), Ceramide NP, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Origanum Majorana Leaf Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Leaf Extract, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Phenylalanine, Arginine, Tyrosine, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Pinus Densiflora Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Chitosan, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dimethicone, Tocopherol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as a first cleanse to remove makeup and impurities. No rinse required, but can follow with a foam cleanser for double cleansing if desired.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Gently
Gently shake the bottle before use to mix the micellar particles evenly throughout the solution.
Soak Cotton Pad
Saturate a cotton pad with an adequate amount of the micellar cleansing water.
Wipe Gently
Gently wipe across your face, eyes, and lips following the skin texture from inside to outside. For stubborn makeup, hold the pad on the area for a few seconds before wiping.
Repeat if Needed
Use additional cotton pads until no residue remains. No rinsing required - continue with your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone or blemish-prone skin
- You want a gentle, no-rinse makeup remover
- Your skin is sensitive to harsh cleansers
- You prefer a morning cleanser that won't strip skin
- You want mild exfoliation without irritation
- You have oily or combination skin
- You experience redness or inflammation
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You need heavy-duty waterproof makeup removal
- You prefer a foaming cleanser experience
- You are pregnant and want to avoid all acids
- You are allergic to tea tree or herbal extracts
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESNiacinamide and BHA help control sebum. Lightweight formula cleanses thoroughly without adding shine or greasiness.
Contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides for hydration. Follow with a rich moisturizer to prevent any tightness.
Balances well across different face zones - controls oil in T-zone while not over-drying cheeks.
Passed hypoallergenic testing. Centella and tea tree soothe irritation, but patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Specifically formulated for acne. Low comedogenic rating, anti-inflammatory ingredients, and gentle acids help manage breakouts.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSClean, Refreshed Feeling
Makeup and surface impurities removed. Skin feels clean without tightness or dryness. Mild tea tree scent that quickly dissipates.
95% noticedReduced Oiliness & Calmer Skin
Sebum production begins to balance. Existing redness and inflammation start to calm down. Pores appear cleaner.
80% noticedImproved Skin Texture
Gentle acid exfoliation reveals smoother skin. Fewer breakouts. Skin tone appears more even and brighter from niacinamide effects.
70% noticedClearer, Healthier Complexion
With consistent use, acne-prone skin shows significant improvement. Skin barrier feels stronger. Less reactive to environmental stressors.
65% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively removes makeup without irritation
- Calms and soothes acne-prone skin
- No secondary cleansing required
- pH balanced at 5.5 for skin health
- Generous 300ml bottle size
- Great value for money
- Doesn't sting even on compromised skin
- Works well as a morning cleanser
Criticized
- May leave sticky residue on some skin types
- Tea tree scent may be strong for sensitive noses
- Struggles with heavy waterproof makeup
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains rosemary oil (potential irritant for some)
- Long ingredient list may concern minimalists
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES400ml size offers better value. Contains niacinamide and madecassoside but lacks the AHA/BHA/PHA acid complex. Fungal acne safe alternative.
Basic micellar formula without acids or acne-targeting ingredients. Much more affordable but missing the exfoliating and calming benefits.
Designed for oily/combination skin. Contains zinc for sebum control. No acids but gentle and effective. Fungal acne safe.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C / 59-77°F).
Plastic bottle with flip-top cap for easy dispensing
No - 300ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains salicylic acid at very low concentrations (10 ppm = 0.001%), which is significantly below the 2% threshold typically considered safe during pregnancy. However, out of an abundance of caution, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including Lactobacillus Ferment, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, and Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider alternatives like COSRX Low pH Niacinamide Micellar Water or Bioderma Sébium H2O which are fungal acne safe.
Yes, but with caution. Since this product contains very low concentrations of acids (10 ppm each), it's generally safe to use with other actives. However, if you're using strong retinol or high-concentration vitamin C or acids, consider alternating usage (morning/evening) or using on different days to avoid over-exfoliation. Always listen to your skin and reduce frequency if you notice irritation.
This micellar water is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The formula is specifically designed with the Miracle line's focus on acne care, featuring tea tree, niacinamide, and gentle acids to control sebum and soothe blemishes. Sensitive skin can also benefit from the calming Truecica complex, though patch testing is recommended. Dry skin users may need to follow up with extra hydration.
You'll notice immediate cleansing and a refreshed feeling after first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you may notice reduced oiliness and calmer skin. Visible improvements in skin texture, fewer breakouts, and brighter skin tone typically appear around 4-6 weeks. For best results, use consistently as part of your daily skincare routine.
Use this as the FIRST step in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. It's designed as a first cleanse to remove makeup, sunscreen, and surface impurities. No rinsing is required, but you can follow with a foam cleanser for double cleansing if desired. After cleansing, continue with your toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people when used as directed. The formula contains sebum-controlling ingredients like niacinamide and BHA that actually help keep pores clear. However, individual responses can vary, and the product does contain some fatty alcohols that may not suit everyone. If you're prone to clogged pores, patch test first.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. After opening, use within 12 months for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 300ml bottle typically lasts 2-4 months with regular daily use (using 2-3 cotton pads per cleansing session).
Verdict: The Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA Calming Truecica Micellar Cleansing Water is an excellent choice for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin seeking a gentle yet effective first cleanse. The unique combination of 20% Truecica calming complex with gentle AHA/BHA/PHA acids provides cleansing, mild exfoliation, and soothing benefits in one step. While not suitable for fungal acne sufferers and containing a light tea tree scent, it offers great value at 300ml and delivers on its promises for acne-prone skin. A solid K-beauty staple for the Miracle skincare routine.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Water
Antimicrobial, Antiseborrhoeic, Astringent, Tonic
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|






