AHA Glycolic Peeling Gel
AHA Glycolic Peeling Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A potent leave-on exfoliating gel with 10% Glycolic Acid that stimulates skin cell renewal, reduces impurities, wrinkles and fine lines while restoring your skin's natural glow. This minimalist Danish formula contains only 7 carefully selected ingredients for maximum effectiveness with minimal irritation.
Accelerates Cell Renewal
10% Glycolic Acid promotes faster skin cell turnover, revealing fresher, younger-looking skin underneath.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAccelerates Cell Renewal
10% Glycolic Acid promotes faster skin cell turnover, revealing fresher, younger-looking skin underneath.
Reduces Fine Lines
Stimulates collagen production with long-term use to visibly reduce wrinkles and improve skin firmness.
Evens Skin Tone
Fades dark spots, hyperpigmentation and age-related pigment changes for a more uniform complexion.
Minimalist Formula
Only 7 carefully selected ingredients - no unnecessary fillers, fragrances, or potential irritants.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. While glycolic acid at 10% or less is generally considered safe by ACOG, this is at the upper limit. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. Safe during breastfeeding when applied away from breast area.
This formula is safe for fungal acne-prone skin. Contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, or ferments that feed Malassezia yeast. Glycolic acid can actually help treat fungal acne by exfoliating affected areas.
Rating 0/5. This ultra-clean formula contains no pore-clogging ingredients. Safe for acne-prone and congested skin types.
Glycolic acid increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product. Best applied in your PM routine.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 10%Gold Standard
The smallest and most effective alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). At 10% concentration with pH 3.8, this provides powerful yet tolerable exfoliation that removes dead skin cells and stimulates collagen production.
- Clinical Evidence: Concentrations of 5-20% shown effective in multiple clinical studies for anti-aging and hyperpigmentation
- Mechanism: Breaks down the "glue" (desmosomes) between dead skin cells for natural exfoliation
- Bonus: Increases natural hyaluronic acid production in skin for improved hydration
Betaine ~3-5%Proven
A natural extract from sugar beet that acts as an osmoprotectant, helping cells maintain proper water balance while soothing and protecting the skin from irritation.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin
- Clinical Benefit: Studies show it helps even out skin tone and reduce age-related pigment changes
- Source: Naturally derived from sugar beet - aligns with vegan formulation
Glycerin ~2-4%Proven
One of the most effective and well-researched humectants. A 2016 study found glycerin more effective than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid for moisturizing.
- Mechanism: Draws moisture from the air and deeper skin layers to the surface
- Benefit: Naturally present in skin - well tolerated by virtually all skin types
- Synergy: Helps buffer potential irritation from glycolic acid
Pentylene Glycol ~3-5%Multi-functional
A plant-derived multi-functional ingredient that provides texture enhancement, mild preservation, and additional hydration benefits.
- Function: Humectant, solvent, and mild antimicrobial preservative
- Source: Naturally found in plants like sugar beets
- Texture: Creates a smooth, soft application feel
7 ingredients
Aqua, Glycolic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Betaine, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydroxyethylcellulose
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 2-3 times per week in your PM routine. Can be used alone or followed by a night cream. Always use sunscreen the next day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with your regular cleanser.
Apply a Thin Layer
Dispense a small amount and spread evenly across face and neck. Avoid the eye area and lips.
Leave On - Do Not Rinse
This is a leave-on treatment. Allow it to absorb completely before applying additional products.
Follow with Moisturizer
Optionally apply your night cream or moisturizer on top for added hydration.
Apply Sunscreen Next Day
Your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen the following day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to address dull, uneven skin tone
- You're concerned about fine lines and wrinkles
- You have hyperpigmentation or dark spots
- Your skin can tolerate active ingredients well
- You prefer minimalist, clean formulas
- You have oily or combination skin
- You want a vegan, fragrance-free option
- You're experienced with chemical exfoliants
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin
- You're new to chemical exfoliants (start lower %)
- You have active eczema or rosacea flare-ups
- You're pregnant and haven't consulted your doctor
- You don't use sunscreen regularly
- You use prescription retinoids daily
- Your skin barrier is currently compromised
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Glycolic acid helps control oil production, unclogs pores, and prevents congestion. Lightweight gel won't add shine.
Works well on both oily and normal areas. Balances texture across different face zones without over-drying.
Perfect for maintaining radiance and preventing signs of aging. Use 2-3x weekly for optimal glow.
Works well but follow with a rich moisturizer. Betaine and glycerin provide hydration, but dry skin may need extra moisture.
10% may be too strong for very sensitive skin. Start once weekly, patch test first, and consider a lower percentage AHA.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. Helps prevent congestion, fade acne scars, and improve overall skin texture.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12+Immediate Smoothness & Glow
Skin feels softer and smoother after the first few applications. You may notice a subtle glow the morning after use. Some users experience mild tingling initially.
85% noticed softer skinTexture Improvement
Visible improvement in skin texture and pore appearance. Rough patches become smoother and skin tone starts to even out.
78% reported improved textureHyperpigmentation Fading
Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to visibly fade. Overall complexion appears more uniform and radiant.
72% saw reduced dark spotsAnti-Aging Benefits
Fine lines appear softened as collagen production is stimulated. Long-term users report firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
65% noticed reduced fine linesRatings by platform
750+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High 10% glycolic acid concentration for visible results
- Ultra-clean formula with only 7 ingredients
- Vegan and fragrance-free - minimal irritation risk
- Optimal pH 3.8 for effective exfoliation
- Fungal acne and non-comedogenic safe
- Noticeable glow after first use
- Betaine helps soothe while exfoliating
- Made in Denmark with quality standards
- WIMJ 100/100 effectiveness score
Criticized
- 10% may be too strong for sensitive skin
- Can feel slightly tight or tacky after application
- Smaller 65ml bottle compared to some competitors
- Requires consistent sunscreen use
- No added soothing botanicals like some alternatives
- Tube packaging less convenient than pump
- Not widely available in all regions
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lower concentration (7% vs 10%) in a liquid toner format. Much larger 240ml bottle. Contains additional amino acids and Tasmanian Pepperberry to soothe. Better value per ml but less potent.
7% glycolic acid in a K-beauty formula. Contains apple water and niacinamide. 100ml bottle. Slightly different texture - more watery essence consistency. Good for AHA beginners.
Lower 5% glycolic acid in toner format. Contains aloe vera and ginseng. 100ml bottle. Much gentler - better for sensitive skin or beginners. Contains fragrance unlike Jorgobé.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Squeeze tube with screw cap - protects formula from air and light exposure
Yes - 65ml is under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy. While the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) approves topical glycolic acid at 10% or less, this formula is at the upper limit. Consult your healthcare provider before use. During breastfeeding, it's generally considered safe as minimal amounts are absorbed systemically - just avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby's skin.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, fermented ingredients, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. In fact, glycolic acid can help treat fungal acne by exfoliating the skin surface and helping to clear affected follicles.
Avoid using in the same routine as other strong actives like retinol, tretinoin, vitamin C serums, or BHA (salicylic acid) to prevent irritation. You can alternate nights - for example, use AHA on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and retinol on Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday. If using vitamin C, apply it in your morning routine while using this AHA at night.
This product is best suited for oily, combination, normal, and acne-prone skin types. It works well for those concerned with dullness, uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, and early signs of aging. Those with sensitive or very dry skin may find 10% too strong - consider starting with a lower percentage AHA or using only once weekly.
Most users notice immediate smoothness and glow within 1-2 weeks. Texture improvements typically appear by weeks 3-4. Hyperpigmentation fading becomes visible around weeks 5-8. Anti-aging benefits from increased collagen production develop over 8-12+ weeks of consistent use.
Apply after cleansing (and toning if you use one) on dry skin. This is a leave-on treatment - do not rinse off. Follow with your serum and moisturizer. Best used in your PM routine 2-3 times per week. Always apply sunscreen the following morning as glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The minimalist 7-ingredient formula contains no pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, glycolic acid actively helps unclog pores by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, making it excellent for congested and acne-prone skin.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 65ml tube will typically last 3-4 months when used 2-3 times per week on face only. If you also use it on neck and décolletage, it may last 2-3 months.
Verdict: Jorgobé AHA Glycolic Peeling Gel is an exceptionally well-formulated exfoliant with a potent 10% glycolic acid concentration and an impressively clean 7-ingredient formula. The optimal pH of 3.8 ensures effective exfoliation while the addition of betaine and glycerin provides necessary hydration. It's particularly standout for being both fungal acne safe and completely non-comedogenic - a rare combination at this potency level. While the smaller 65ml size and higher price point compared to budget alternatives like The Ordinary may deter some, the minimalist Scandinavian approach and proven effectiveness make it an excellent choice for those who want results without unnecessary additives. Best suited for experienced acid users with oily to normal skin; sensitive skin types should approach with caution or choose a lower percentage.
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.