AHA/BHA Refresh Vitamin C Booster Serum
AHA/BHA Refresh Vitamin C Booster Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, watery booster serum infused with 57% Golden-Rx Complex (kiwi and dragon fruit extracts) that gently exfoliates with AHA, BHA, and Vitamin C to reveal brighter, smoother, and more radiant skin while delivering refreshing hydration.
57% Golden-Rx Complex
Combines 28.5% kiwi fruit extract and 28.5% dragon fruit extract for natural brightening and antioxidant protection.
Texture & feel
SENSORY57% Golden-Rx Complex
Combines 28.5% kiwi fruit extract and 28.5% dragon fruit extract for natural brightening and antioxidant protection.
Triple Brightening Action
Features Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C), Alpha-Arbutin, and Niacinamide to target dullness and uneven skin tone.
Gentle Dual Exfoliation
Glycolic Acid (AHA) and Betaine Salicylate (BHA) work together for mild exfoliation without over-stripping.
Hydrating Formula
Infused with Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, and Betaine to maintain skin hydration during exfoliation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Glycolic Acid (AHA) and Betaine Salicylate (BHA). Low-concentration topical acids are generally considered safe, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate and Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, which are esters that may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic formula with gentle acid concentrations. However, patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Contains AHA which increases photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen during daytime use and limit sun exposure.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSKiwi Fruit Extract 28.5%Proven
Natural brightening agent rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and antioxidants. Helps improve skin radiance and provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation.
- Vitamin C Content: Naturally high in ascorbic acid for brightening
- Antioxidants: Contains polyphenols that protect against free radical damage
Dragon Fruit Extract 28.5%Proven
Also known as Pitaya, this exotic fruit extract is packed with vitamins, minerals, and betalains that provide antioxidant and hydrating benefits.
- Betalains: Unique antioxidants that help protect skin cells
- Hydration: Contains natural sugars that help retain moisture
Niacinamide 2%Proven
Vitamin B3 derivative that helps even skin tone, minimize pores, strengthen the skin barrier, and regulate sebum production.
- Study: 2% niacinamide shown effective for skin barrier support and tone evening
- Sebum Control: Helps balance oil production in combination/oily skin
Glycolic Acid (AHA) Low %Proven
The most researched AHA that gently exfoliates dead skin cells, improves texture, and stimulates collagen production with long-term use.
- Exfoliation: Breaks down bonds between dead skin cells
- Penetration: Smallest AHA molecule for effective absorption
Betaine Salicylate (BHA) Low %Promising
A gentler alternative to salicylic acid, combining betaine with salicylic acid for oil-soluble pore-clearing action without harsh irritation.
- Pore Clearing: Oil-soluble to penetrate and clear pores
- Gentle Action: Less irritating than pure salicylic acid
Ascorbyl Glucoside Low %Proven
A stable, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative that brightens skin and provides antioxidant protection without the instability of pure L-Ascorbic Acid.
- Stability: More stable than pure Vitamin C in formulations
- Conversion: Converts to active ascorbic acid in the skin
Alpha-Arbutin Low %Proven
A potent brightening agent that inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production, helping fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
- Mechanism: Blocks tyrosinase to prevent melanin formation
- Safety: Gentler alternative to hydroquinone
24 ingredients
Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract, Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract, Hippophae Rhamnoides Water, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycolic Acid, Betaine, Sodium Hydroxide, Water, Panthenol, Allantoin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Adenosine, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Betaine Salicylate, Limonene, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Alpha-Arbutin, Linalool, Menthyl Lactate, Mentha Haplocalix Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toning and before heavier serums. Best used in PM routine; if used in AM, always follow with SPF 30+.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Apply your toner and let it absorb before proceeding.
Dispense Serum
Use the dropper to dispense 2-3 drops onto your fingertips or directly onto your face.
Apply & Pat
Gently pat and spread the serum across your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Follow Up
Wait 30 seconds for absorption, then continue with your essence, moisturizer, and SPF (for daytime).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, tired-looking skin that needs brightening
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without harsh peeling
- You're new to acids and want a beginner-friendly formula
- You have combination to oily skin
- You're looking to even out skin tone and texture
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing serums
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You need strong, high-concentration acids for stubborn concerns
- You're very sensitive to bergamot oil or citrus fragrances
- You have extremely dry or compromised skin barrier
- You want a fragrance-free formula
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all acids (consult doctor first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWatery texture absorbs instantly without adding shine. BHA helps control sebum and keep pores clear.
Lightweight formula balances well across different face zones without over-drying or clogging.
Perfect for maintaining healthy, radiant skin with gentle brightening and exfoliation benefits.
Provides some hydration but may need a richer moisturizer on top. Start with 2-3x weekly use.
Gentle acid concentrations are suitable for most sensitive skin, but patch test first due to bergamot oil.
Low comedogenic rating is good, but not fungal acne safe. Mild BHA concentration may not be strong enough for stubborn acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Hydration & Glow
Skin feels instantly refreshed and hydrated after application. A subtle, temporary glow appears due to gentle exfoliation.
85% noticed immediate glowSmoother Texture
Dead skin cell buildup reduces, resulting in noticeably smoother and softer skin texture. Pores may appear cleaner.
70% noticed smoother textureBrighter, More Even Tone
Cumulative brightening effects become visible. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation begin to fade with consistent use.
65% noticed brighter skin toneLong-Term Radiance
Continued use maintains brightening results. Fine lines may appear diminished due to AHA's collagen-stimulating effects.
55% noticed improved fine linesRatings by platform
950+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, watery texture absorbs instantly
- Gentle enough for daily use and acid beginners
- Multi-functional: exfoliates, brightens, and hydrates
- Natural fruit extracts at high concentrations (57%)
- Cruelty-free and free from harmful additives
- No stinging or burning unlike stronger acid products
- Affordable K-beauty price point
Criticized
- Small bottle size (30ml) runs out quickly
- Acid concentrations too mild for stubborn concerns
- Contains bergamot oil (potential irritant/photosensitizer)
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Results may be subtle for experienced acid users
- May not be strong enough for active acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher concentration of the same Vitamin C derivative. Simpler formula without AHA/BHA exfoliation. Better for those who only need brightening.
Larger size (50ml) with triple acid formula plus tea tree. More acne-focused with centella asiatica. Contains alcohol which may be drying.
Much higher Vitamin C concentration (21.5% pure L-Ascorbic Acid). More potent but also more unstable and potentially irritating. No AHA/BHA.
Stronger 7% glycolic acid concentration for more intensive exfoliation. Single-acid formula without Vitamin C. Better for stubborn texture concerns.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration not required but can extend freshness.
Glass bottle with dropper dispenser for hygienic, controlled application
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA carry-on limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis serum contains Glycolic Acid (AHA) and Betaine Salicylate (BHA), which require caution during pregnancy. While low-concentration topical acids are generally considered safe by many dermatologists, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider before using any acid-based skincare during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers low-dose topical salicylic acid safe, but individual advice may vary.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate and Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, which are esters that can potentially feed malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% which is fungal acne safe.
It's generally not recommended to layer this serum with retinol or other strong acids (like additional AHA/BHA products) in the same routine to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. You can alternate: use this serum on some nights and retinol on others. If you want to use both, apply this serum in the morning (with SPF) and retinol at night. Always introduce new products gradually and monitor your skin's response.
This serum is best suited for combination to oily skin types, and those with normal skin looking to maintain brightness. Its lightweight, watery texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. It's also suitable for sensitive skin due to its gentle acid concentrations, though a patch test is recommended. Dry skin types can use it but may need a richer moisturizer on top.
You may notice an immediate glow and smoother texture within the first 1-2 weeks due to gentle exfoliation. More significant brightening and evening of skin tone typically takes 6-8 weeks of consistent use. For visible reduction in dark spots and hyperpigmentation, expect to use the product for 12+ weeks. Remember that skincare results require patience and consistency.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, essences, moisturizers, and sunscreen. The routine order is: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Essence/Ampoule → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). It can be used both morning and evening, but if using in the morning, always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen as acids increase sun sensitivity.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. The formula is lightweight and water-based, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. However, it's not fungal acne safe due to certain emulsifiers. If you're prone to comedonal acne, the BHA content may actually help keep pores clear.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. This means you should use it within 12 months of first opening the bottle. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its efficacy. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use even if it's within the 12-month period.
Verdict: COSRX AHA/BHA Refresh Vitamin C Booster Serum is an excellent entry-level multi-functional serum for those new to acids or seeking gentle daily exfoliation. The 57% fruit extract complex provides natural brightening, while the combination of low-concentration AHA, BHA, and Vitamin C derivatives offers a well-rounded approach to improving dullness and texture without irritation. However, experienced acid users may find it too mild, and those with fungal acne should look elsewhere. At its price point, it delivers solid value for combination to oily skin types wanting a refreshing, lightweight serum that won't overwhelm sensitive skin.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Actinidia Chinensis Fruit Extract
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hylocereus Undatus Fruit Extract
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hippophae Rhamnoides Water
Masking, Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|