Alpha Beta AHA/BHA Daily Cleansing Gel
Alpha Beta AHA/BHA Daily Cleansing Gel
Product Description
Alpha Betaยฎ AHA/BHA Daily Cleansing Gel
A pH-balanced, gel-to-foam daily cleanser that pairs glycolic and mandelic acids with willow-bark BHA to dissolve dirt, oil and makeup, refine the look of pores and smooth uneven texture โ without stripping the skin.
The Essentials at a Glance
Key Benefits
Cleans Without Stripping
A soap- and sulfate-free, gel-to-foam base lifts dirt, oil and makeup โ including around the eyes โ while glycerin and humectants keep skin from feeling tight afterwards.
Daily Acid Exfoliation
Glycolic and mandelic AHAs plus willow-bark BHA work in the wash step to gently loosen dead surface cells, the same acid philosophy behind the brand's famous peel pads.
Pore-Refining Complex
Phytic acid and farnesol help dissolve waxy build-up inside the pore wall and wash away surface bacteria, targeting congestion and the look of enlarged pores.
Clinically Cleaner Feel
In the brand's consumer study, 100% agreed skin felt thoroughly cleansed and 93% said skin looked and felt smoother after just one day of use.
Safety & Suitability
This is an exfoliating acid cleanser with a light botanical scent. Most people tolerate it well, but a few formula details matter depending on your situation.
No retinoids, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. It does contain low-level AHAs and willow bark (a natural salicylate). Rinse-off AHA cleansers are widely considered low-risk, but because of the salicylate, confirm with your OB-GYN.
Contains esters and fatty-acid derivatives (caprylic/capric triglyceride, polyglyceryl-3 laurate, glycereth-7 caprylate/caprate) that can feed malassezia. Short rinse-off contact lowers real-world risk, but it is not on a strict FA-safe list.
As a rinse-off gel cleanser it leaves little residue and is considered very low risk for clogging pores for most users.
Jasmine, clove, lavender and grape extracts plus farnesol give a light botanical scent. It is NOT fragrance-free, so very reactive or fragrance-sensitive skin should patch test first.
Because it exfoliates with AHAs/BHA, daily broad-spectrum SPF in the morning is essential to protect freshly resurfaced skin.
Formulated without soap, sulfates, parabens, phthalates or talc, and packaged in recyclable materials.
Hero Ingredients
Dr. Dennis Gross does not publish exact percentages for this rinse-off formula; the acids sit at gentle, daily-use levels appropriate for a cleanser.
๐งช Glycolic Acid AHA Proven
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid, so it penetrates efficiently to loosen the "glue" between dead surface cells. It is the most heavily researched AHA for brightening, smoothing texture and supporting cell turnover.
- Mechanism: Weakens corneocyte adhesion to speed surface exfoliation and reveal fresher skin.
- Formula role: Part of the brand's signature Alpha Beta acid philosophy carried into the cleansing step.
๐ Mandelic Acid AHA Proven
A larger-molecule AHA derived from bitter almonds. Its size means it absorbs more slowly and is generally gentler than glycolic, making it a smart pairing for daily exfoliation with less sting.
- Mechanism: Gentle surface exfoliation plus mild antibacterial activity helpful for congestion-prone skin.
- Best for: Those who want acid resurfacing but find glycolic alone too tingly.
๐ณ Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract BHA source Promising
A botanical source of salicin, which the skin can convert toward salicylic-acid-like activity. It delivers a gentler, oil-loving exfoliation that helps clear inside the pore.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble action helps dislodge sebum and debris from within pores.
- Why it's here: Provides the "BHA" half of the AHA/BHA promise without high-strength synthetic salicylic acid.
๐ Phytic Acid PHA-like Promising
A gentle, plant-derived acid and antioxidant that also chelates metal ions. It contributes mild exfoliation and brightening while helping keep the formula stable.
- Mechanism: Mild surface exfoliation plus antioxidant and chelating support.
- Pore complex: Works alongside farnesol to help flush waxy build-up from pore walls.
๐ฆ Farnesol Active Promising
A naturally occurring compound that helps wash away surface bacteria associated with breakouts, supporting a clearer complexion.
- Mechanism: Antibacterial activity that complements the exfoliating acids.
๐ง Hydration & Soothing Complex Support Proven
Glycerin, propanediol, sodium hyaluronate, sodium PCA, Tremella (snow mushroom) extract, aloe and bisabolol cushion the acids so the cleanser rinses clean without that tight, stripped feeling.
- Humectants: Glycerin, hyaluronate and Tremella draw and hold water at the surface.
- Soothers: Aloe and bisabolol help offset potential irritation from daily exfoliation.
Full Ingredient List (INCI)
Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Disteareth-75 IPDI, Glycereth-7 Caprylate/Caprate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Phytic Acid, Citric Acid, Farnesol, Barosma Betulina Leaf Extract, Sodium PCA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Bisabolol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Butylene Glycol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Gluconolactone, Sodium Phytate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower/Leaf Extract, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate.
Your Routine Position
This is your cleansing step โ the very first treatment your skin meets, morning and night.
How to Use
Wet Your Face
Splash skin with lukewarm water. The gel activates into a soft foam when massaged onto damp skin.
Lather & Massage
Work a small amount into your hands, then massage gently over the whole face, including around the eyes, for 20โ30 seconds.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry. Use AM and PM for daily clarity.
Follow With Treatment + SPF
Layer your serums and moisturizer afterward. Always finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning.
How It Performs by Skin Type
Foaming acid base cuts excess oil and refines pores; 98% in the brand study said skin wasn't oily or shiny after one day.
Clears congestion in the T-zone while humectants keep drier cheeks from feeling tight.
AHA/BHA exfoliation plus farnesol target blackheads and texture โ but it is not fungal-acne safe and is lightly scented.
Doesn't strip thanks to glycerin and hyaluronate, but daily acids may be best limited to once a day with a richer moisturizer on top.
Acids plus botanical fragrance (jasmine, clove, lavender, farnesol) may irritate reactive skin. Patch test and start a few times a week.
Results Timeline
A rinse-off cleanser builds results gradually. Percentages below reflect the brand's consumer use study.
Clean, Smooth Feel
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed and balanced right away, without tightness.
100% felt cleansedLess Shine, More Glow
Oil feels better controlled and the complexion looks brighter and fresher.
98% no oily feelRefined Texture
Regular acid exfoliation softens rough patches and the look of pores.
93% smootherSustained Clarity
With daily use plus SPF, tone looks more even and congestion stays in check.
Ongoing upkeepAcross the Web
Ratings below are approximate aggregates from public retailer listings as of 2026 and will shift over time.
Comparable Alternatives (Dupes)
No exact clone exists, but these acid cleansers chase a similar goal at different price points. Match score reflects how close the experience is.
A true triple-acid (salicylic, lactic, glycolic) wash, but it adds jojoba beads for physical scrub and is meant for 2โ3x weekly use rather than daily.
Fragrance-free, ceramide-rich and gentle enough for daily use, but it relies on salicylic acid (BHA) only โ no AHA brightening or botanical feel.
Inexpensive glycolic foam, but built on SLS with added fragrance and parabens, and recommended only 1โ3x weekly rather than as a daily cleanser.
How It Compares
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta (Featured)
$15 โ $39Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
$25 โ $44CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser
$15.99Frequently Asked Questions
It contains no retinoids, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. It does include low-level AHAs (glycolic, mandelic) and willow bark, a natural salicylate. Because it's a rinse-off product, contact time is brief and many clinicians consider AHA cleansers low-risk โ but salicylate-containing products warrant a quick check with your OB-GYN before adding them during pregnancy or nursing.
Not strictly. The formula contains esters and fatty-acid derivatives โ caprylic/capric triglyceride, polyglyceryl-3 laurate and glycereth-7 caprylate/caprate โ that can feed malassezia yeast. Because it rinses off quickly, real-world risk is lower than a leave-on product, but if you are actively managing fungal acne, a simpler fragrance- and ester-free cleanser is the safer choice.
Generally yes โ it's a brief-contact cleanser, so it rinses before your actives go on. That said, it already exfoliates, so stacking it with strong leave-on acids or retinoids every single day can over-exfoliate. Vitamin C pairs fine in the morning; if you use a potent retinoid or peel at night, consider a non-acid cleanser on those evenings and listen to your skin.
It shines on oily, combination and normal skin that wants daily acid exfoliation and pore refinement. Dry skin can use it but should follow with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin should be cautious because of the acids and botanical scent โ patch test and build up slowly.
Skin feels cleaner and smoother from the first wash โ the brand reports 100% felt thoroughly cleansed and 93% felt smoother after one day. Visible refinement of texture and pores builds over roughly 2โ4 weeks of consistent daily use, with ongoing clarity at the 8โ12 week mark.
It's your first step โ the cleanser. Use it on damp skin morning and night, rinse, then follow with toner or peel pads, serums, moisturizer and (in the morning) sunscreen.
Very unlikely. We rate it about 1 out of 5. As a rinse-off gel it leaves minimal residue, and its acids actively help keep pores clear rather than block them. The clog-risk caveat is mainly relevant to those with fungal acne, as noted above.
Plan on a Period After Opening (PAO) of about 12 months โ check the little open-jar symbol on your packaging for the exact figure. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sun so the acids stay effective.
The Verdict
A genuinely effective daily acid cleanser from a dermatologist-founded brand: glycolic, mandelic and willow-bark BHA refine pores and texture without stripping, and the clinical feedback is strong. The trade-offs are a divisive botanical fragrance, a prestige price, and the fact that it isn't fungal-acne safe. For oily and combination skin that loves an exfoliating wash, it's an easy yes; sensitive and FA-prone users have gentler options.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
Cleansing, Surfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|