Black Rice Soft Peeling Gel
Black Rice Soft Peeling Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A smooth, non-irritating gel-type exfoliator formulated with 95% naturally derived ingredients including 10,000ppm fermented black rice extract. Gently dissolves dead skin cells and impurities to reveal a brighter, smoother, and more even complexion without harsh scrubbing.
Fermented Black Rice Power
10,000ppm of fermented Korean black rice extract delivers concentrated polyphenols and flavonoids to protect skin against free radicals and encourage new cell growth.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFermented Black Rice Power
10,000ppm of fermented Korean black rice extract delivers concentrated polyphenols and flavonoids to protect skin against free radicals and encourage new cell growth.
Ultra Deep Technology
Patented microencapsulation delivers Panax Ginseng saponins deep into skin via sphere-shaped liposomes for enhanced anti-aging and hydration benefits.
Gentle Cellulose Exfoliation
Plant-derived cellulose physically lifts away dead skin cells and impurities through gentle rolling action — no harsh scrubbing or chemical acids needed.
Bamboo Shoot Bark Extract
2,000ppm of Phyllostachys Pubescens Shoot Bark Extract brightens and soothes the skin while supporting the overall exfoliation process.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing according to dermatologist reviews.
Contains Aspergillus Ferment, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, and Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate which may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Water-based gel formula with no heavy oils or butters. Very low risk of clogging pores for most skin types.
Denatured alcohol is high on the ingredient list. May be drying for very dry or compromised skin barriers. Rinse-off formula reduces exposure time.
Lavandula Angustifolia Oil provides a natural scent but contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which may sensitize very reactive skin types.
All ingredients are rated green by the Environmental Working Group, meeting strict safety standards for personal care products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSFermented Black Rice Extract (Oryza Sativa) 10,000ppm (1%)Proven
The star ingredient — 100% Korean-grown fermented black rice extract. Rich in anthocyanins, polyphenols, and flavonoid pigments that deliver powerful antioxidant protection and promote skin cell regeneration.
- Antioxidant: Black rice contains higher anthocyanin content than blueberries, protecting against UV damage and pollution
- Brightening: Rice proteins have emollient properties that create a moisture barrier and improve skin luminosity
- Anti-aging: Concentrated polyphenols encourage new cell growth and help maintain skin elasticity
Bamboo Shoot Bark Extract (Phyllostachys Pubescens) 2,000ppm (0.2%)Promising
Extracted from bamboo shoot bark, this ingredient provides soothing and brightening properties. Works synergistically with the black rice extract for enhanced skin-smoothing effects.
- Brightening: Helps improve uneven skin tone and dullness
- Soothing: Calms the skin during the exfoliation process to reduce irritation
Panax Ginseng Root Extract 6-Year Korean GinsengProven
Part of Haruharu's patented Ultra Deep Technology — saponin-rich 6-year Korean ginseng concentrate delivered via sphere-shaped liposomes for deep skin penetration.
- Anti-aging: Contains Vitamin D, B12, and ginsenosides that boost collagen production
- Hydration: Improves blood circulation and oxygen flow for a more nourished complexion
- Firming: Helps diminish rough texture, wrinkles, and skin impurities
CelluloseProven
Plant-derived physical exfoliant that forms soft granules when massaged on skin. Gently rolls away dead skin cells and impurities without micro-tears or harsh abrasion.
- Mechanism: Forms visible clumps during massage that trap dead cells, sebum, and surface debris
- Gentle: No sharp edges unlike physical scrubs — safe for regular weekly use
Algin (Seaweed-derived)Promising
A natural polysaccharide from seaweed that assists in pore-clearing and provides a smooth application feel. Helps bind and lift impurities from the skin surface.
- Pore care: Assists in clearing pores of trapped debris and excess sebum
- Texture: Contributes to the smooth, gel-like consistency of the formula
Betaine Sugar beet-derivedProven
A natural amino acid derivative from sugar beet that acts as an osmolyte — helping cells maintain optimal water balance during exfoliation to prevent moisture loss.
- Hydration: Draws and retains water in skin cells as a natural humectant
- Protection: Supports skin barrier function during the exfoliation process
20 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Alcohol, Betaine, Cellulose, Algin, Glycerin, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Phyllostachys Pubescens Shoot Bark Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Cyclodextrin, Aspergillus Ferment, Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 1–2 times per week after cleansing, on dry skin. Best used in the evening. Follow with toner and the rest of your routine for optimal absorption.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Start with a clean face. After cleansing, pat your skin completely dry with a towel. The gel works best on dry skin — do not apply to damp or wet skin.
Apply the Gel
Squeeze a moderate amount onto fingertips and spread a thin, even layer across the face. Avoid the eye and mouth areas. Focus on areas with visible dullness or rough texture.
Wait 5 Minutes
Leave the gel on for approximately 5 minutes to allow the fermented black rice and active ingredients to work on dissolving dead skin cells.
Massage Gently
Using gentle circular motions, massage the gel across your face. You will see small cellulose clumps forming — these are lifting dead skin cells and impurities from the surface.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Follow with your usual toner, serum, and moisturizer. Your skin is now primed for better absorption of subsequent products.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin looks dull and lacks radiance
- You have flaky or rough-textured skin
- You prefer gentle physical exfoliation over chemical acids
- You want a vegan, cruelty-free exfoliator
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe exfoliant
- You want to improve product absorption in your routine
- You prefer clean, naturally-derived formulas
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains ferments and esters)
- You are very sensitive to alcohol in skincare
- You need strong chemical exfoliation (AHA/BHA)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
- You have a severely compromised skin barrier
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel formula effectively clears excess sebum and dead cells without adding oil. Alcohol content helps control shine.
Betaine and glycerin provide hydration during exfoliation. Follow with a rich moisturizer. Alcohol may feel slightly drying — limit to once a week.
Ideal match — gently buffs flaky dry patches while clearing congestion in the oily T-zone. Well-balanced formula for mixed skin needs.
Gentle physical exfoliation is a plus, but alcohol and lavender oil may irritate highly reactive skin. Patch test first and use once a week maximum.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and effective dead cell removal helps prevent clogged pores. Not suitable if acne is fungal in nature (malassezia).
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Smoothness
Skin feels noticeably softer and smoother right after rinsing. Visible cellulose clumps during massage confirm dead skin removal. Complexion appears slightly brighter.
90% noticed smoother textureImproved Skin Texture
Regular weekly use begins to refine overall skin texture. Flaky patches diminish and skin tone starts to look more even. Subsequent skincare products absorb noticeably better.
75% noticed brighter complexionVisible Radiance & Clarity
Consistent use reveals a clearer, more radiant complexion. Dullness is significantly reduced and skin tone appears more uniform. Pores look cleaner and less congested.
70% noticed improved radianceLong-Term Skin Health
Antioxidant benefits of fermented black rice contribute to improved skin resilience. Skin looks healthier, more youthful, and maintains a natural glow between exfoliation sessions.
65% reported healthier skin overallRatings by platform
480+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — no irritation, redness, or stinging
- Visible dead skin removal with satisfying cellulose clumps
- Skin feels baby-soft and smooth immediately after use
- 95% naturally derived, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe formula
- Pleasant lavender scent (natural, not synthetic)
- Clean, short ingredient list (only 20 ingredients)
- Improves absorption of subsequent skincare products
Criticized
- Alcohol is the 3rd ingredient — can be drying
- Not fungal acne safe (contains ferments and esters)
- Contains lavender essential oil (potential sensitizer)
- Small 100ml tube may not last long
- No chemical exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) for deeper exfoliation
- Must apply to dry skin only — extra step after cleansing
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Fragrance-free cellulose-based peeling gel with a low pH formula. Gentler on sensitive skin and fungal acne safe. Lacks the fermented black rice antioxidant benefits but offers BHA for mild chemical exfoliation.
Apple extract and hyaluronic acid-infused peeling gel. Very mild and hydrating with a fruity scent. More suitable for very sensitive skin but may not exfoliate as effectively for normal to oily types.
Cellulose-based peeling gel with added licorice root and vitamin C derivative for brightening. More targeted for hyperpigmentation concerns. Different active approach but similar physical exfoliation mechanism.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Mizon Apple Smoothie Peeling Gel
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly sealed after each use. Ideal storage temperature: 15–25°C.
Squeezable plastic tube with twist-off cap. Eco-friendly packaging printed on 100% recycled paper with soy ink. Braille included on outer box for accessibility.
Yes — 100ml meets TSA carry-on liquid limits. Lightweight tube fits easily in travel kits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This peeling gel does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the key ingredients to avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is listed as pregnancy safe by dermatologist-reviewed skincare databases. The formula uses gentle physical exfoliation rather than potentially harmful chemical actives, making it a suitable choice for expecting and nursing mothers. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients flagged as potentially feeding malassezia yeast: Aspergillus Ferment (a fermented ingredient), Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, and Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate (esters). If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider the COSRX Low pH Good Night Soft Peeling Gel as a fungal acne-safe alternative.
You can, but with caution. Since this is a physical exfoliant, do not use it on the same day as strong chemical exfoliants (AHA, BHA) or retinol to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. A good schedule would be: use the peeling gel 1–2 times per week on separate days from your acid or retinol nights. Vitamin C serums can be applied after the peeling gel in the same session, as the freshly exfoliated skin will absorb the vitamin C more effectively.
This peeling gel works best for normal, oily, and combination skin types. It is excellent for anyone dealing with dull, flaky, or rough-textured skin. Dry skin types can benefit too but should follow with a rich moisturizer and limit use to once a week. Those with very sensitive skin should patch test first due to the alcohol and lavender oil content. It is not recommended for those with fungal acne.
You will feel smoother, softer skin immediately after your first use. Visible improvements in skin brightness and texture typically appear after 2–3 weeks of consistent weekly use. For long-term benefits like improved radiance, more even skin tone, and enhanced skin health from the antioxidant-rich fermented black rice, expect to see cumulative results after 1–2 months of regular use.
Use it after cleansing (step 3) and before toner (step 4). The order is: Oil Cleanser → Water Cleanser → Peeling Gel → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Apply to completely dry skin, wait 5 minutes, massage gently, then rinse. Continue with your regular routine. Use 1–2 times per week, preferably in the evening.
This product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is a water-based gel formula with no heavy oils, waxes, or butters that typically clog pores. In fact, by removing dead skin cells and surface impurities, it actually helps prevent clogged pores. The algin (seaweed extract) in the formula also assists in clearing pores. It is a rinse-off product, further reducing any risk of pore congestion.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. With recommended usage of 1–2 times per week and a moderate amount per application, the 100ml tube typically lasts 3–4 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly sealed after each use to maintain product integrity throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: The Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Soft Peeling Gel is an excellent gentle exfoliator for those who want effective dead skin removal without harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubs. The fermented black rice extract delivers genuine antioxidant benefits that go beyond simple exfoliation, and the 95% natural, vegan formula aligns well with clean beauty values. It earns high marks for its pregnancy-safe status, low comedogenic rating, and immediately noticeable results. However, the alcohol as the third ingredient, the lack of fungal acne safety, and the presence of lavender essential oil prevent it from being a universal recommendation.Best suited for normal, oily, and combination skin types seeking a gentle, naturally-derived weekly exfoliant with anti-aging benefits.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Cellulose
Viscosity Controlling, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Slip Modifier
|
|