Azarine x Marvel AHA-BHA-PHA Peeling Serum
Azarine x Marvel AHA-BHA-PHA Peeling Serum
Product Description
Product overview
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.
Triple-Acid Exfoliation System
Combines AHA (surface), BHA (pore-deep), and PHA (gentle barrier-friendly) acids for comprehensive multi-level exfoliation without over-stripping.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-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.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Free from oils, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. Does not feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free, silicone-free formulation with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Very unlikely to cause breakouts.
The brand advises against using this serum simultaneously with retinol or niacinamide. Alternate usage on different days or AM/PM routines instead.
AHA/BHA acids increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the morning after use. Use this serum at night only.
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.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic 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
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
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.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse at night only, 1-3x per week. Do not layer with retinol or niacinamide. Always apply SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean, dry face. Use your regular gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
Apply the Peeling Serum
Dispense a small amount onto your fingertips. Apply evenly across your face, avoiding the eye and lip areas.
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.
Continue Your Routine
Follow with your moisturizer to lock in hydration. Use 1-3 times per week during your evening routine only.
Apply Sunscreen Next Morning
AHA/BHA increases sun sensitivity. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 the following morning without fail.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect 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
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight formula. BHA penetrates pores to control sebum. Reduces shine and refines pore appearance effectively.
Multi-acid approach addresses both oily T-zone congestion and dry areas. PHA and Hyaluronate provide hydration where needed.
2% Salicylic Acid unclogs pores, anti-inflammatory mandelic acid fights bacteria. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe formula.
Great for maintaining smooth texture and radiance. Use 1-2x per week for gentle exfoliation and brightness boosting.
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.
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.
Results timeline
MONTH 3-6Immediate 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 texturePore 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 poresDark 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 spotsLong-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 improvementRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 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
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESMuch 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.
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.
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.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
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.
Glass dropper bottle with Marvel-themed collectible design. Sturdy and recyclable but fragile — handle with care during shipping.
Yes, 20ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact glass bottle fits easily in travel pouches.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo, 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
|
|
| 1 |
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Pores
|





