AHA + BHA + PHA Serum
AHA + BHA + PHA Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, multi-acid exfoliating serum combining AHA (Glycolic, Malic, Tartaric, Succinic Acid), BHA (Salicylic Acid), and PHA (Gluconolactone) with Niacinamide, Polyglutamic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid. This lightweight, fragrance-free K-beauty serum smooths texture, unclogs pores, and brightens skin without irritation — suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
Combines AHA, BHA, and PHA for multi-level exfoliation: surface renewal, deep pore cleansing, and gentle hydrating exfoliation in one formula.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Acid Exfoliation
Combines AHA, BHA, and PHA for multi-level exfoliation: surface renewal, deep pore cleansing, and gentle hydrating exfoliation in one formula.
Hydration Boost
Polyglutamic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, and Betaine work together to lock in moisture and prevent trans-epidermal water loss during exfoliation.
Skin Brightening
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) fades dark spots, evens tone, and strengthens the skin barrier while providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Clean & Eco-Friendly
100% vegan, cruelty-free, allergen-free formula with eco-conscious packaging. Certified by The Vegan Society with minimal plastic use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at low concentration (0.05–1%). Most dermatologists recommend avoiding salicylic acid during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates. Confirmed fungal acne safe by SkinSort. Will not feed Malassezia yeast.
Comedogenic rating 0/5. Oil-free, silicone-free formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Extremely unlikely to cause breakouts.
Free from the 26 EU-listed allergens. No synthetic fragrances, dyes, or common irritants. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
AHA: 0.02–1%, BHA: 0.05–1%, PHA: 1–10%. Gentle enough for daily use by most skin types, but always use sunscreen when using acids.
AHA and BHA can increase sun sensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this serum.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGluconolactone (PHA) 1–10%Proven
A next-generation polyhydroxy acid that gently exfoliates without the irritation of traditional AHAs. Its larger molecular size means slower, gentler penetration — ideal for sensitive skin, rosacea, and post-procedure recovery.
- Exfoliation: Breaks intercellular bonds to remove dead skin cells at the surface level without deep irritation.
- Moisturizing: Acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and helping repair the skin barrier.
- Anti-aging: Studies show increased skin thickness and reduced wrinkles with long-term PHA use.
- Antioxidant: Chelates metal ions and provides antioxidant protection without increasing photosensitivity.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) mid-rangeProven
A multifunctional superstar ingredient with extensive clinical research backing its anti-aging, brightening, anti-acne, and barrier-strengthening properties.
- Brightening: Reduces melanin transfer to skin cells, fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots over 8–12 weeks.
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide production, resulting in a stronger moisture barrier and better hydration.
- Anti-aging: Clinically shown to smooth wrinkles at 4–5% concentration. Improves skin elasticity and firmness.
- Oil control: Regulates sebum production, helping reduce shine and minimize the appearance of pores.
Salicylic Acid (BHA) 0.05–1%Proven
The gold standard oil-soluble exfoliant for acne-prone skin. Unlike AHAs, BHA penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts.
- Pore cleansing: Lipophilic (oil-loving) nature allows it to penetrate and clean inside pores where oil and debris accumulate.
- Anti-inflammatory: Structurally similar to aspirin, providing soothing, anti-redness properties for inflamed acne.
- FDA-recognized: Concentrations of 0.5–2% recognized by the U.S. FDA as an effective over-the-counter acne treatment.
Glycolic Acid (AHA) 0.02–1%Proven
The most researched alpha hydroxy acid, derived from sugarcane. With the smallest molecular size among AHAs, it provides effective surface-level exfoliation to reveal brighter, smoother skin.
- Exfoliation: Dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together, promoting cell turnover and a fresher complexion.
- Collagen boost: Stimulates collagen production over time, improving firmness and reducing fine lines.
- Hydration: Increases natural hyaluronic acid production in skin, enhancing hydration from within.
Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) supportingPromising
A high-molecular-weight amino acid polymer derived from fermented soybeans (natto). Claimed to hold up to 5,000 times its weight in water — significantly more than hyaluronic acid.
- Hydration: Forms a moisture-retaining film on the skin surface, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
- NMF boost: Increases the skin's natural moisturizing factor for long-lasting, deep hydration.
- HA synergy: Inhibits hyaluronidase (the enzyme that breaks down HA), helping your skin retain more hyaluronic acid.
Sodium Hyaluronate supportingProven
A smaller molecular form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin to provide intense, multi-layer hydration and plumping effect.
- Deep hydration: Holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, drawing moisture into the skin from the environment.
- Plumping: Fills in fine lines and wrinkles by hydrating the skin from within, creating a smoother appearance.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) supportingProven
A powerful humectant and skin-soothing agent that strengthens the moisture barrier, calms irritation, and accelerates wound healing.
- Barrier repair: Stimulates lipid synthesis in the epidermis, reinforcing the skin's natural protective barrier.
- Soothing: Anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation caused by exfoliating acids.
20 ingredients
Water, Pentylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, Niacinamide, Betaine, Dimethyl Sulfone, Salicylic Acid, Polyglutamic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Malic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Succinic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Pyridoxine HCl, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Propanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in the PM routine 2–3 times per week to start. Gradually increase frequency as skin builds tolerance. Always follow with sunscreen in the AM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean, dry face. Apply your toner first and let it absorb.
Apply 2–3 Drops
Dispense 2–3 drops onto fingertips or a cotton pad. Apply evenly across face and neck, avoiding the eye and lip area.
Gently Pat & Absorb
Lightly tap fingertips over the skin to help the serum absorb. Wait 1–2 minutes before applying the next step.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with your moisturizer to seal in hydration. In the morning, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want gentle exfoliation without irritation or stinging
- You have enlarged pores, uneven texture, or dull skin
- You are new to chemical exfoliants and want a beginner-friendly formula
- You have oily or combination skin with occasional breakouts
- You prefer clean, vegan, fragrance-free skincare
- You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe exfoliant
- You want a multi-acid serum without using separate products
Consider alternatives if:
- You need high-strength acids for severe acne scarring or deep wrinkles
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
- You want a single high-concentration active (e.g., 10%+ glycolic acid)
- You prefer a larger bottle size (this is 30ml only)
- You have active dermatitis, open wounds, or severely compromised skin barrier
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, matte finish formula. BHA penetrates pores to control excess sebum. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production long-term.
Balances oily T-zone while hydrating drier areas. Lightweight watery texture won't overwhelm any zone of the face.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, oil-free. BHA clears pores while Neem extracts provide antibacterial support.
Low acid concentrations and PHA's gentle nature make it tolerable for most sensitive types. Allergen-free. Patch test recommended first.
Polyglutamic acid and hyaluronic acid provide hydration. However, dry skin types should always follow with a rich moisturizer and limit usage to 2x per week.
AHAs boost collagen and cell turnover for anti-aging. PHA provides gentle exfoliation without over-stripping mature skin. Niacinamide smooths fine lines.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Smoother Texture
Dead skin cell buildup begins to dissolve. Skin feels softer and smoother to the touch. Mild flaking is normal as old cells shed.
70% noticed smoother skinClearer Pores & Fewer Breakouts
BHA begins to clear sebum plugs from inside pores. Blackheads and whiteheads start to diminish. Skin looks more refined and less congested.
60% noticed fewer breakoutsBrighter, More Even Tone
Niacinamide and AHAs work together to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Overall skin tone appears more even and luminous.
55% noticed brighter complexionVisibly Refined & Healthier Skin
Cumulative effects of triple-acid exfoliation become evident. Pores appear smaller, fine lines soften, and the skin barrier strengthens from consistent use.
75% reported overall improvementRatings by platform
250+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — no tingling, stinging, or purging reported by most users
- Lightweight watery texture absorbs instantly with no stickiness
- Fragrance-free, allergen-free, and vegan — ideal for sensitive skin
- Fungal acne safe — confirmed free of malassezia triggers
- Clean, minimal ingredient list with only 20 ingredients
- Eco-friendly, plastic-free packaging philosophy
- Visible pore refinement and texture improvement within weeks
- Works well layered with other skincare products
Criticized
- Low acid concentrations may not satisfy experienced acid users
- Small 30ml bottle doesn't last long with daily use
- Higher price per ml compared to mainstream K-beauty competitors
- Limited availability — hard to find on Amazon or major Western retailers
- Not pregnancy-safe due to salicylic acid content
- Results are subtle and gradual, not dramatic overnight
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also uses triple AHA/BHA/PHA acids plus tea tree and centella. Higher concentration of actives and larger 50ml size, but contains more ingredients and fragrance. Not as gentle or minimal as Toun28.
A toner format (not serum) with AHA and BHA. Much larger 150ml bottle and very accessible. However, lacks PHA, niacinamide, and the hydrating actives found in Toun28. Simpler formula overall.
An intense weekly peel with much higher acid concentrations — not a daily-use serum. Far stronger exfoliation but much harsher. No PHA, no hydrating agents. Not for sensitive skin or beginners.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening
Store at 15–30°C in a dark place. Avoid direct sunlight as it may cause discoloration of the product.
Brown glass dropper bottle (UV-protective). Eco-friendly, minimal plastic packaging aligned with Toun28's sustainability mission.
Yes, 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Glass bottle — pack in a protective pouch for safety.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis serum is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding because it contains Salicylic Acid (BHA). While the concentration is low (0.05–1%), most dermatologists advise avoiding salicylic acid entirely during pregnancy as a precaution. The AHA and PHA components are generally considered safe, but it is always best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any acid-based product while pregnant or nursing.
Yes, this serum is confirmed fungal acne safe. It contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented extracts that feed Malassezia yeast. The clean, minimal formula with only 20 ingredients has been verified as safe for malassezia-prone skin by SkinSort and ingredient analysis databases. It is one of the few multi-acid serums on the market that is both effective and fungal acne safe.
It is best to use this serum and retinol on alternate nights to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. For vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), you can use it in the AM and this serum in the PM. Avoid layering AHA/BHA directly with retinol in the same routine as both increase cell turnover and can compromise the skin barrier. If using niacinamide serum separately, note that this product already contains niacinamide, so additional niacinamide may not be necessary.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its oil-free, lightweight formula with a matte finish works exceptionally well for those dealing with enlarged pores, excess sebum, and uneven texture. Thanks to the gentle PHA and low acid concentrations, it is also suitable for sensitive skin and beginners to chemical exfoliation. Dry skin types can use it too, but should follow with a richer moisturizer.
Most users report smoother skin texture within the first 1–2 weeks. Clearer pores and fewer breakouts typically become noticeable around weeks 3–4. For more significant improvements in tone, brightness, and pore size, expect 6–8 weeks of consistent use. Full results including dark spot fading and overall skin refinement usually appear after 8–12 weeks. Start with 2–3 times per week and increase gradually.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). For PM routines, you can skip sunscreen. If using other serums, apply this acid serum first (on clean skin), wait 1–2 minutes for absorption, then layer hydrating serums and moisturizer on top.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. It is completely oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the BHA (salicylic acid) actively works to unclog pores, while the AHA helps clear surface buildup. This makes it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin that is sensitive to comedogenic products.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 6 months. The unopened product has a shelf life of 3 years from the manufacture date. Store it at 15–30°C away from direct sunlight, as UV exposure can degrade the active acids and cause discoloration. The brown glass dropper bottle provides some UV protection. If the product changes color significantly, develops an unusual smell, or separates, discontinue use.
Verdict: Toun28 AHA + BHA + PHA Serum is an excellent gentle exfoliating serum for those who want the benefits of triple-acid exfoliation without harshness or irritation. Its clean, vegan, 20-ingredient formula is fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and allergen-free — a rare combination in the multi-acid category. The low acid concentrations make it ideal for beginners and sensitive skin, though experienced acid users may find it too mild. The small 30ml size and premium price per ml are its main drawbacks. If you value clean beauty, gentle effectiveness, and eco-conscious formulation, this is one of the best K-beauty acid serums available.
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
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.