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Azarine x Marvel AHA-BHA-PHA Peeling Serum

Azarine x Marvel AHA-BHA-PHA Peeling Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A potent multi-acid peeling serum combining 7% AHA (Glycolic, Lactic, Mandelic), 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid), 1% PHA (Lactobionic Acid), and enzymatic papaya exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, brighten dark spots, refine pores, and smooth uneven texture. Limited-edition Marvel collaboration packaging in a compact 20ml glass bottle.

BPOM Certified Cruelty-Free Fragrance-Free Alcohol-Free Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Oil-Free Sulfate-Free Fungal Acne Safe Reef Safe
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
20ml
Type
Peeling Serum
Targets
Texture, Pores, Dark Spots
Use
PM Only, 1-3x/Week
Total Acids
10% AHA+BHA+PHA
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Triple-Acid Exfoliation System

Combines AHA (surface), BHA (pore-deep), and PHA (gentle barrier-friendly) acids for comprehensive multi-level exfoliation without over-stripping.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery-Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
15-30 seconds
Finish
Natural, Non-Sticky

Triple-Acid Exfoliation System

Combines AHA (surface), BHA (pore-deep), and PHA (gentle barrier-friendly) acids for comprehensive multi-level exfoliation without over-stripping.

Enzymatic Papaya Peeling

Natural papain enzyme from Carica Papaya provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation, working synergistically with chemical acids for smoother results.

Brightening & Dark Spot Fading

Glycolic and Mandelic acids accelerate cell turnover to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, acne marks, and uneven skin tone.

Soothing Botanical Complex

Portulaca Oleracea, Aloe Vera, Allantoin, and Royal Jelly calm and protect the skin barrier, reducing irritation from acid exfoliation.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not Recommended

Contains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Free from oils, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. Does not feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.

Low Comedogenic Rating (1/5)

Oil-free, silicone-free formulation with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Very unlikely to cause breakouts.

Do Not Layer with Retinol or Niacinamide

The brand advises against using this serum simultaneously with retinol or niacinamide. Alternate usage on different days or AM/PM routines instead.

Sun Sensitivity Warning

AHA/BHA acids increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the morning after use. Use this serum at night only.

Patch Test Recommended

With a 10% total acid concentration, a patch test behind the ear or on the inner wrist is recommended before full-face application, especially for sensitive skin.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Glycolic Acid Part of 7% AHAProven

The smallest and most researched AHA with deep penetration ability. Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells for effective surface exfoliation, promotes collagen synthesis, and boosts natural hyaluronic acid production.

  • Mechanism: Smallest molecular weight among AHAs allows deeper skin penetration for more effective exfoliation
  • Evidence: Concentrations of 5-20% shown effective in clinical studies for texture improvement and anti-aging
  • Bonus: Recent studies suggest glycolic acid may also help protect skin against UV damage
May cause slight stinging on first use. Those with very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin should start with lower-concentration products.

Lactic Acid Part of 7% AHAProven

A gentler AHA derived from milk that exfoliates while simultaneously providing hydration. In higher concentrations, it can improve skin firmness, thickness, and reduce wrinkles.

  • Dual action: Exfoliates dead skin cells while acting as a humectant to draw moisture into the skin
  • Evidence: 10%+ concentration shown to improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines in clinical studies
  • Gentleness: Larger molecular size than glycolic acid means less irritation potential

Mandelic Acid Part of 7% AHAProven

An AHA derived from bitter almonds with antibacterial properties. Its larger molecular size provides slower, gentler exfoliation, making it ideal for acne-prone and darker skin tones with lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

  • Antibacterial: Active against acne-causing bacteria, making it a dual-purpose acne fighter
  • Safe for melanin-rich skin: Less likely to trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation compared to glycolic acid
  • Light-sensitive: Product uses opaque glass packaging to protect this ingredient

Salicylic Acid (BHA) 2%Proven

The gold-standard BHA for acne treatment. Oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep inside pores to dissolve sebum buildup, unclog blackheads, and reduce inflammation from within.

  • Oil-soluble: Uniquely penetrates into pores to clear buildup that water-soluble AHAs cannot reach
  • Anti-inflammatory: Structurally similar to aspirin, providing calming effects on inflamed, acne-prone skin
  • FDA recognized: 0.5-2% concentration recognized by the U.S. FDA as an effective over-the-counter acne treatment
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider.

Lactobionic Acid (PHA) 1%Proven

A next-generation polyhydroxy acid that provides gentle exfoliation without irritation. Acts as a humectant, antioxidant, and skin barrier strengthener, making it suitable for sensitive and post-procedure skin.

  • Gentle exfoliation: Larger molecular size prevents deep penetration, reducing irritation while still removing dead cells
  • Antioxidant: Provides significant antioxidant activity to protect skin from free radical damage
  • Barrier support: Moisturizes and strengthens the skin barrier while exfoliating

Portulaca Oleracea ExtractPromising

Purslane extract, a traditional medicinal plant known in Asian herbal medicine. Provides potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing benefits to soothe skin irritated by acid exfoliation.

  • Traditional use: Used in Korean and Chinese traditional medicine to treat skin infections and irritation
  • Skin soothing: Helps calm redness and inflammation caused by active exfoliating ingredients

Carica Papaya Fruit Extract 1%Promising

Natural papaya enzyme (papain) that provides enzymatic exfoliation, breaking down dead skin proteins. Works synergistically with chemical acids for a more comprehensive peeling effect.

  • Enzymatic action: Papain enzyme dissolves dead protein bonds on skin surface without the need for low pH
  • Synergy: Complements chemical acid exfoliation for enhanced cell turnover and brightening

Sodium HyaluronateProven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Helps maintain skin hydration and plumpness during the exfoliation process.

  • Hydration: Draws moisture from the environment into the skin to counteract potential dryness from acid exfoliation
  • Stability: Salt form is more stable and easier to formulate than pure hyaluronic acid

16 ingredients

Aqua, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactobionic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Allantoin, Royal Jelly, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Gluconobacter/Honey Ferment Filtrate.

FREE FROM: Alcohol, Fragrance, Essential Oils, Parabens, Silicones, Sulfates, Mineral Oil, Artificial Colorants, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Hydroquinone, Retinoids
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
This Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use at night only, 1-3x per week. Do not layer with retinol or niacinamide. Always apply SPF 30+ the next morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with a clean, dry face. Use your regular gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.

2

Apply the Peeling Serum

Dispense a small amount onto your fingertips. Apply evenly across your face, avoiding the eye and lip areas.

3

Leave On for 10-15 Minutes

Allow the serum to absorb and work for 10-15 minutes. A mild tingling sensation is normal. If burning or severe irritation occurs, rinse off immediately.

4

Continue Your Routine

Follow with your moisturizer to lock in hydration. Use 1-3 times per week during your evening routine only.

5

Apply Sunscreen Next Morning

AHA/BHA increases sun sensitivity. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 the following morning without fail.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You struggle with uneven skin texture or rough patches (bruntusan)
  • You want to fade dark spots, acne marks, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • You have enlarged pores and want a refined, smoother complexion
  • You want an affordable multi-acid exfoliant with proven active concentrations
  • You prefer a short, clean ingredient list with no fragrance or unnecessary fillers
  • You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe exfoliating treatment

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains 2% Salicylic Acid)
  • You have very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin and have never used chemical exfoliants
  • You want a daily-use exfoliant (this is 1-3x/week only)
  • You need a larger bottle size (only 20ml per bottle)
  • You want to layer with retinol or niacinamide in the same routine step
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Oil-free, lightweight formula. BHA penetrates pores to control sebum. Reduces shine and refines pore appearance effectively.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Multi-acid approach addresses both oily T-zone congestion and dry areas. PHA and Hyaluronate provide hydration where needed.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

2% Salicylic Acid unclogs pores, anti-inflammatory mandelic acid fights bacteria. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe formula.

Normal Skin
Good

Great for maintaining smooth texture and radiance. Use 1-2x per week for gentle exfoliation and brightness boosting.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Contains Sodium Hyaluronate and Lactic Acid for hydration, but the 10% total acid content may be drying. Follow with a rich moisturizer and limit to 1x/week.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

PHA and soothing botanicals help, but 10% total acid concentration may irritate. Patch test first and start with 1x/week. Rosacea-prone skin should avoid glycolic acid.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 3-6
Week 1-2

Immediate Smoothing & Brightness

Skin feels noticeably smoother after the first few applications. Surface dead skin cells are removed, revealing a brighter, fresher complexion. Mild tingling or slight purging may occur.

70% noticed smoother texture
Week 3-4

Pore Refinement & Reduced Breakouts

Pores begin to appear smaller as BHA clears out deep-seated buildup. Active breakouts start to decrease. Skin texture becomes more even and unified.

60% noticed smaller pores
Month 2-3

Dark Spot Fading & Even Skin Tone

Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation begin to visibly fade. Overall skin tone becomes more even and radiant. Texture improvements become more pronounced.

55% noticed faded dark spots
Month 3-6

Long-Term Clarity & Anti-Aging Benefits

Consistent use delivers cumulative benefits including improved collagen production from glycolic acid, refined pores, and a visibly healthier, more resilient skin barrier.

50% noticed anti-aging improvement
09

Ratings by platform

5K+ REVIEWS
GoPicky (Skincare Community)
5.0
Rating
2+
Reviews
Main complaint: Very limited number of reviews on international platforms
Shopee Indonesia
4.8
Rating
5,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 20ml bottle runs out quickly with regular use
MySkincare.id (Indonesian Beauty Community)
4.5
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users experienced redness or irritation, especially sensitive skin types
Watsons Malaysia
4.6
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Limited availability outside Southeast Asia
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Extremely affordable price point for a multi-acid exfoliant with proven concentrations
  • Effective at fading acne marks, dark spots, and smoothing uneven texture (bruntusan)
  • Clean, short ingredient list (only 16 ingredients) with no fragrance or alcohol
  • Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic formula
  • Visible results reported within 1-2 weeks of consistent use
  • Fun collectible Marvel-themed packaging in sturdy glass bottle
  • BPOM certified and cruelty-free Indonesian brand

Criticized

  • Very small bottle size (only 20ml) runs out quickly
  • Not suitable for pregnancy or breastfeeding due to Salicylic Acid
  • Can cause stinging, redness, or purging in the first week, especially for acid beginners
  • Cannot be layered with retinol or niacinamide in the same routine
  • Limited international availability outside Southeast Asia
  • Dropper packaging can be less hygienic than airless pump designs
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
$8.90
Budget Pick

Much stronger AHA concentration (30% vs 7%). A 10-minute mask treatment rather than a leave-on serum. More intense exfoliation but higher irritation risk. Larger 30ml size. Does not contain PHA or enzymatic peeling.

70% Match
AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
$20.00
Similar Price

Much gentler formula with only 0.1% AHA and BHA each. A daily-use toner format (150ml) vs a weekly peeling serum. Better for exfoliation beginners but significantly less potent. No PHA or enzymatic exfoliation.

75% Match
AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum
$15.00
Similar Price

Also contains AHA+BHA+PHA but at much lower concentrations (ppb range). Enriched with 14.5% Centella Asiatica and Tea Tree for soothing. Larger 50ml bottle but contains alcohol and olive oil. Not fungal acne safe.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Key Actives 30% AHA + 2% BHA
Size 30ml
Frequency 1x/week, 10min mask
Fungal Acne Safe No (contains Castor Oil)
Fragrance-Free Yes
Ingredient Count 20+
Origin Canada
AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum
Key Actives AHA+BHA+PHA (trace amounts)
Size 50ml
Frequency Daily (AM/PM)
Fungal Acne Safe No (Olive Oil, Esters)
Fragrance-Free Yes
Ingredient Count 50+ (complex)
Origin South Korea
AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Key Actives 0.1% AHA + 0.1% BHA
Size 150ml
Frequency Daily
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Ingredient Count 11 (minimal)
Origin South Korea
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed. Mandelic acid is light-sensitive, so the opaque glass bottle helps protect potency.

Packaging

Glass dropper bottle with Marvel-themed collectible design. Sturdy and recyclable but fragile — handle with care during shipping.

Travel Friendly

Yes, 20ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact glass bottle fits easily in travel pouches.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No, this product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy by most dermatologists and healthcare professionals. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before using any products containing salicylic acid, and consider switching to a PHA-only or lactic acid-only exfoliant during this time.

Yes, this serum is considered fungal acne safe. It is free from oils, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The formula contains no ingredients known to trigger or worsen fungal acne. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and has been flagged as fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient analysis platforms including GoPicky and SkinSort.

The brand specifically advises against layering this serum with retinol and niacinamide in the same routine step. Instead, alternate usage: for example, use niacinamide in the morning and this peeling serum in the evening, or use them on different days. Avoid combining with other AHA/BHA products or vitamin C serums in the same session to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. If using retinol, use on alternate nights.

This serum works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The BHA component penetrates pores to control oil and clear congestion, while the AHAs smooth surface texture. It can be used on normal skin for brightening, and dry skin types should limit use to 1x/week and follow with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should patch test first, as the 10% total acid concentration can cause irritation.

Most users report noticeably smoother, brighter skin within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Pore refinement and reduced breakouts typically become visible around weeks 3-4. Fading of dark spots and acne marks takes longer, usually 2-3 months of regular use. For best results, use 1-3 times per week consistently and always wear sunscreen during the day.

Use this serum after cleansing (and optionally toning) as step 3 in your evening routine. Apply on clean, dry skin, leave for 10-15 minutes, then follow with moisturizer. Use only at night, 1-3 times per week. Do not use with retinol, niacinamide, or other active acids in the same session. Always apply sunscreen SPF 30+ the next morning.

No, this serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the BHA (Salicylic Acid) in the formula actively helps unclog pores. The serum is also flagged as non-comedogenic by ingredient analysis databases. It is very unlikely to cause breakouts or clogged pores.

The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Given the small 20ml size and 1-3x weekly usage frequency, most users will finish the bottle well within this timeframe. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The glass dropper bottle helps protect light-sensitive ingredients like mandelic acid.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Azarine x Marvel AHA-BHA-PHA Peeling Serum delivers impressive results for its remarkably low price point. With a well-formulated 10% total acid concentration (7% AHA + 2% BHA + 1% PHA) backed by enzymatic papaya exfoliation and soothing botanicals, this is one of the most effective budget exfoliants on the Southeast Asian market. The clean, 16-ingredient formula is fungal acne safe, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic — checking nearly every box for acne-prone and oily skin types. The main drawbacks are the tiny 20ml bottle size, unsuitability for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and limited availability outside Southeast Asia. If you can get your hands on it, this is an exceptional value for a multi-acid peeling treatment.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Lactobionic Acid Royal Jelly
brightening Brightening from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid Lactobionic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Sodium Hyaluronate Allantoin Royal Jelly
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Salicylic Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2 2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
50% 18% 31%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 16 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
4 B
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
0 Unknown
Lactic Acid
brightening Brightening
anti-aging Anti-Aging
1 Unknown
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
brightening Brightening
anti-aging Anti-Aging
4 B
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
Pores
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS