Bioclear Face Lotion
Bioclear Face Lotion
Product Description
A powerful triple-acid resurfacing lotion combining glycolic, salicylic, and azelaic acids to dramatically improve skin texture, clarity, and luminosity while targeting adult acne, fine lines, enlarged pores, and uneven skin tone.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Triple-Acid Technology
Combines AHA (glycolic), BHA (salicylic), and azelaic acid for comprehensive skin resurfacing at multiple levels.
Multi-Benefit Formula
Targets acne, fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, redness, and uneven texture in one powerful product.
Professional-Grade Results
Developed by skincare pioneer Jan Marini with over 30 years of clinical research and peer-reviewed studies.
Clean Formulation
Free from parabens, fragrances, and dyes. Manufactured in FDA-approved GMP labs in California.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains salicylic acid which should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered safe, but avoid applying to chest area. Consult your doctor.
Contains Polysorbate 20 which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Water-based gel formula with minimal pore-clogging ingredients. Rating: 1/5 - unlikely to cause breakouts.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ during the day when using this product.
Avoid using with other strong acids, retinoids, or vitamin C in the same routine to prevent irritation.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π¬ Glycolic Acid Proven
The gold-standard AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) for skin resurfacing. Works on the skin's surface to dissolve dead skin cells, improve texture, and boost collagen production.
- Mechanism: Breaks bonds between dead skin cells for gentle exfoliation
- Benefits: Reduces fine lines, improves texture, fades hyperpigmentation
- Research: Extensively studied with proven anti-aging benefits at concentrations above 8%
π§ Salicylic Acid 2% Proven
Oil-soluble BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin, and debris. The most effective ingredient for treating acne and blackheads.
- Mechanism: Penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces acne, minimizes blackheads and whiteheads
- Research: FDA-approved acne treatment at concentrations up to 2%
β¨ Azelaic Acid Proven
A versatile dicarboxylic acid with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening properties. Originally developed for acne and rosacea treatment.
- Mechanism: Reduces free fatty acid content, inhibits tyrosinase for brightening
- Benefits: Fights acne bacteria, reduces redness, fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Research: FDA-approved for rosacea; effective for acne at 15-20% concentrations
π¦ Sodium Hyaluronate Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular weight for better penetration. Provides deep hydration to counterbalance the drying effects of acids.
- Mechanism: Holds up to 1000x its weight in water
- Benefits: Hydrates, plumps skin, reduces appearance of fine lines
14 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hyaluronate, Undecanedioic Acid, Sebacic Acid, Suberic Acid, Sclerotium Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after antioxidant serum (like C-ESTA) or immediately after cleansing. Use before heavier creams and always follow with SPF in daytime.
π How to Use
Shake Well
Always shake the bottle before each use to ensure proper mixing of the active ingredients.
Dispense Sparingly
Use only 2-3 drops. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply to Clean, Dry Skin
Gently spread across entire face, avoiding eye area. Do not rinse off.
Build Tolerance Gradually
Week 1: AM only. Week 2: AM & PM as tolerated. Mild tingling is normal initially.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have adult acne or hormonal breakouts
- You want to address multiple concerns (acne + aging)
- You have enlarged pores or congested skin
- You struggle with milia (small white bumps)
- You have post-acne hyperpigmentation or scarring
- You want a professional-grade resurfacing treatment
- You have normal, combination, or oily skin
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or trying to conceive
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin
- You are allergic to aspirin or salicylates
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You are already using strong retinoids
- You prefer budget-friendly options
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Salicylic acid controls excess sebum while the lightweight gel formula absorbs without adding shine.
Balances well across different face zones. Controls T-zone oiliness without over-drying cheeks.
Specifically designed for adult acne. Triple-acid formula targets breakouts, clogs, and post-acne marks.
Great for texture improvement and anti-aging benefits. May need to use less frequently.
May be too drying for some. Use sparingly and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
Patch test first. Start with once-weekly use and build tolerance slowly. Azelaic acid helps soothe.
π Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Mild tingling and temporary redness are normal. Skin begins purging as pores are cleared. Some users notice immediate brightness.
65% notice initial tinglingVisible Clarity
Breakouts start to diminish. Skin texture feels smoother. Pores appear smaller. Post-acne marks begin to fade.
78% see reduced breakoutsSignificant Improvement
Noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Skin tone more even. Hyperpigmentation fading. Overall luminosity improved.
85% report clearer skinTransformative Results
Maximum benefits achieved with consistent use. Dramatically smoother, clearer, and more youthful-looking skin.
92% would repurchaseβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Dramatically clears adult acne and prevents breakouts
- Multi-tasking formula addresses aging + acne together
- Noticeable results within 2-4 weeks
- Works on milia, cystic acne, and hormonal breakouts
- Evens skin tone and fades hyperpigmentation
- Refines pores and smooths skin texture
- Clean formula: paraben, fragrance, and dye-free
- Long-lasting: a little goes a very long way
β Criticized
- High price point ($98 for 1 oz)
- Dropper packaging prone to leaking and spillage
- Initial tingling/burning during adjustment period
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Contains salicylic acid (pregnancy concern)
- Can be drying for some skin types
- Requires sunscreen (increases photosensitivity)
- May cause purging in first 1-2 weeks
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains 10% azelaic acid + salicylic acid but lacks glycolic acid. Good for redness and acne but less comprehensive exfoliation.
Higher acid concentration but rinse-off formula (10 min max). No azelaic acid. Weekly treatment vs daily use. Much more affordable option.
Single-acid formula with 10% azelaic acid only. Missing glycolic and salicylic acids. Silicone-heavy texture. Good for beginners.
Requires using two separate products. No azelaic acid included. More customizable layering but less convenient than all-in-one formula.
π Comparison with Competitors
Jan Marini Bioclear Face Lotion
$98.00Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
$36.00The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2%
$9.80The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10%
$12.90π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly closed.
Glass dropper bottle with screw-top cap
Yes, TSA-compliant (under 100ml/3.4oz)
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. Bioclear contains salicylic acid, which is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in high concentrations or large areas. While low-concentration topical salicylic acid (under 2%) is generally considered safe for limited use during breastfeeding, you should avoid applying it to the chest area and consult your healthcare provider before use. The azelaic acid component is pregnancy Category B and considered safe.
No, Bioclear is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier that can break down into fatty acids that feed Malassezia yeast. If you have pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne), consider alternatives like The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, which is fungal acne safe.
It's best to avoid layering Bioclear with other strong actives like retinol, vitamin C, or additional AHA/BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. If you want to use multiple actives, alternate them on different days or use one in AM and one in PM. Always introduce new products gradually and monitor your skin's response.
Bioclear is best suited for normal, combination, and oily skin types, particularly those dealing with adult acne, enlarged pores, uneven texture, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It can be used on sensitive skin with caution (start slowly). Those with very dry skin may find it too drying and should use sparingly with a rich moisturizer.
Most users notice initial improvement in skin brightness and texture within 1-2 weeks. Significant reduction in breakouts typically occurs by weeks 2-4. For maximum benefits including reduced fine lines, faded hyperpigmentation, and dramatically clearer skin, expect 8-12 weeks of consistent use. Some users may experience initial purging in the first 1-2 weeks.
Apply Bioclear after cleansing and toning, and after any water-based serums (like vitamin C, if used at different times). Apply before heavier creams and oils. In the Jan Marini system, it's used after the C-ESTA serum. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning, as the acids increase sun sensitivity.
Bioclear has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores. In fact, its salicylic acid content actively unclogs pores and prevents congestion. The lightweight gel-serum formula is water-based with minimal oils or heavy emollients. It's specifically formulated to be non-comedogenic for acne-prone skin.
Bioclear has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the bottle tightly closed. Despite the small 1 oz size, the product lasts 2-4 months with regular use because only 2-3 drops are needed per application.
Verdict: Jan Marini Bioclear Face Lotion is a premium, professional-grade treatment that delivers real results for adult acne and aging concerns. The unique triple-acid formula (glycolic, salicylic, and azelaic) offers comprehensive benefits that few single products can match. While the price is high and it's not suitable for everyone (pregnancy, fungal acne), the overwhelmingly positive reviews and cult-favorite status among estheticians and dermatologists speak to its effectiveness. If you can afford it and don't have contraindications, this is an excellent investment for clearer, smoother, more luminous skin.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Ache-fighting
|