Centella 3% PHA Gentle Liquid Exfoliating Serum
Centella 3% PHA Gentle Liquid Exfoliating Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, next-generation PHA exfoliating serum formulated with 3% Gluconolactone and COSMOS-certified Orange Water to dissolve impurities, control sebum, and reveal a brighter, smoother complexion without irritation. Perfect for sensitive skin types seeking effective yet gentle exfoliation.
Gentle PHA Exfoliation
3% Gluconolactone gently dissolves dead skin cells without irritation, making it ideal for sensitive skin and exfoliation beginners.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle PHA Exfoliation
3% Gluconolactone gently dissolves dead skin cells without irritation, making it ideal for sensitive skin and exfoliation beginners.
COSMOS-Certified Orange Water
100,000 ppm of organic orange water delivers natural Vitamin C for brightening, improved elasticity, and an even skin tone.
Centella Barrier Support
Centella Asiatica with active centellosides (Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid) soothes and strengthens the skin barrier.
Patented Anti-Sebum P Complex
Proprietary blend of moonflower, brown root, king pine, and arrowroot extracts controls sebum production and minimizes pores.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEPHAs like gluconolactone are generally considered low-risk due to larger molecular size and minimal penetration. However, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha) which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne.
PHA is the gentlest of all hydroxy acids. Larger molecular size means slower, gentler exfoliation with less irritation compared to AHAs and BHAs.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. No heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. Safe for acne-prone skin when used as directed.
While PHAs cause less photosensitivity than AHAs, always use SPF 30+ during the day when using any exfoliating product.
Safe to alternate with retinoids and Vitamin C. Avoid layering with other acids (AHA/BHA) in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGluconolactone (PHA) 3%Proven
A next-generation polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation while simultaneously hydrating the skin. Its larger molecular structure ensures slower penetration and minimal irritation.
- Mechanism: Dissolves dead skin cells on the surface without deep penetration
- Clinical Study: PHA shown to be compatible with sensitive skin conditions including rosacea and atopic dermatitis
- Bonus Benefits: Humectant properties attract moisture; antioxidant effects help protect against UV damage
Orange Fruit Water 100,000 ppmCOSMOS Certified
COSMOS-certified organic orange water rich in natural Vitamin C and antioxidants. Provides brightening benefits while delivering gentle hydration and improving skin elasticity.
- Source: Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Sweet Orange) Fruit Water
- Benefits: Natural brightening, improved skin tone, enhanced radiance
- Certification: COSMOS organic certification ensures purity and sustainability
Centella Asiatica Complex 1,000 ppmProven
Complete Centella Asiatica extract with four active centellosides: Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, and Madecassoside. Known for centuries in traditional medicine for wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Asiaticoside: Stimulates collagen synthesis and wound healing
- Madecassoside: Powerful anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair
- Asiatic Acid: Promotes GAG (glycosaminoglycan) production for hydration
- Clinical Evidence: Proven moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects in multiple studies
Patented Anti-Sebum P ProprietaryPatented
Haruharu Wonder's proprietary blend of four botanical extracts designed to control excess sebum production and provide pore care.
- Pueraria Lobata Root: (Kudzu) Controls oil production
- Pinus Palustris Leaf: (Long-leaf Pine) Astringent and pore-refining
- Ulmus Davidiana Root: (Elm Bark) Soothing and anti-inflammatory
- Oenothera Biennis: (Evening Primrose) Balancing and nourishing
Kombucha (Black Tea Ferment) SupportingPromising
Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment provides antioxidant benefits and supports skin health through probiotic-like activity.
- Benefits: Antioxidant protection, skin barrier support, hydration
- Activity: Fermented ingredients can help balance skin microbiome
Ectoin & Sodium Hyaluronate SupportingProven
Powerful humectant duo providing multi-level hydration. Ectoin is a stress-protection molecule while Sodium Hyaluronate draws moisture into the skin.
- Ectoin: Protects cells from environmental stress, reduces inflammation
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Holds up to 1000x its weight in water for deep hydration
20 ingredients
Water, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Water, Gluconolactone (3%), Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arginine, Centella Asiatica Extract (1,000ppm), Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Extract, Ectoin, Asiatic Acid (0.001ppm), Asiaticoside (0.001ppm), Madecassic Acid (0.001ppm), Madecassoside (0.001ppm)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse maximum 3x per week. Apply after toner on clean, dry skin. Can be used AM or PM. Always follow with SPF during daytime.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean, dry skin. Complete your cleansing routine and apply toner. Wait for skin to dry completely before applying the serum.
Apply Serum
Dispense an appropriate amount onto fingertips. Gently pat and spread evenly across face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Target Problem Areas
For spot treatment, focus on T-zone, areas with blackheads, or congested pores. Can also be used all over the face.
Follow Up
Allow to absorb for 30-60 seconds, then continue with the rest of your routine. Always apply SPF 30+ during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to AHAs/BHAs
- You're new to chemical exfoliation
- You struggle with oily skin and enlarged pores
- You have blackheads, whiteheads, or congested skin
- You want gentle brightening without irritation
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free products
- You have combination or acne-prone skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You need stronger exfoliation results
- You're allergic to citrus ingredients
- You prefer fragrance-free with no natural scent
- You want a thick, serum-like texture (this is watery)
- You're looking for anti-aging as primary concern
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPatented Anti-Sebum P complex controls oil production. Lightweight watery texture absorbs instantly without adding shine.
Perfect balance of exfoliation and hydration. Can spot-treat oily T-zone or use all over. Non-greasy formula works well across different zones.
PHA is the gentlest exfoliating acid. Centella soothes while gluconolactone provides moisture-retaining properties. Start 1x weekly and build up.
PHA has humectant properties that attract moisture. However, follow with a rich moisturizer. Limit use to 1-2x weekly to prevent over-exfoliation.
Low comedogenic rating and sebum-controlling properties help clear pores. However, contains fermented ingredient - not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSRefreshed, Hydrated Feel
Skin feels instantly refreshed with a light, watery texture. No stinging or irritation. Soothed and hydrated complexion after first use.
95% noticed immediatelySmoother Texture
Gentle exfoliation begins showing results. Skin feels smoother to the touch. Reduced roughness and improved product absorption.
80% noticed improvementClearer Pores & Brightness
Visible reduction in blackheads and clogged pores. Skin appears brighter and more even-toned. Reduced excess oil and shine.
75% noticed clearer poresRefined Skin & Glow
Overall improvement in skin texture and tone. Minimized appearance of pores. Natural, healthy glow. Consistent use maintains results.
85% achieved desired resultsRatings by platform
950+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle - no irritation or stinging
- Perfect for sensitive skin and exfoliation beginners
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing watery texture
- Noticeable brightening and smoother texture over time
- Helps reduce blackheads and congested pores
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and clean ingredient list
- COSMOS-certified organic orange water
- Doesn't dry out skin like other acids
- Good value for the size (120ml)
Criticized
- Too gentle for those wanting stronger exfoliation
- Watery texture surprises those expecting thicker serum
- Contains ferment - not fungal acne safe
- Results are subtle and require patience
- Light citrus scent may bother some
- Limited anti-aging benefits compared to retinoids
- May not show dramatic results for severe texture issues
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 3% gluconolactone concentration plus 3% niacinamide. Simpler formula without centella or patented sebum control. Fungal acne safe option. 100ml size.
84% Centella Asiatica with PHA and niacinamide. Larger 210ml size. More focused on soothing than exfoliation. Fungal acne safe formula.
Higher 10% PHA concentration for stronger exfoliation. Simpler formula with apple fruit extract. Better for those wanting more potent results. Fungal acne safe.
Uses AHA (glycolic) and BHA (betaine salicylate) instead of PHA. More exfoliating but potentially more irritating. Great for those who can tolerate stronger acids.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Derma Factory Gluconolactone 10% Treatment
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature (15-25°C) is ideal. No refrigeration needed.
Plastic bottle with pump dispenser for hygienic, mess-free application
Yes - 120ml is over 100ml TSA limit, consider decanting for carry-on or check luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQPHAs like gluconolactone are generally considered lower risk during pregnancy compared to other acids due to their larger molecular size and minimal skin penetration. However, this product hasn't been specifically tested for pregnancy safety. We recommend consulting with your healthcare provider or dermatologist before using any exfoliating product during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some conservative medical sources advise caution with all chemical exfoliants.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha), which is a fermented ingredient that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne or are prone to Malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like The Inkey List PHA Toner or SKIN1004 Centella Toning Toner, which are fungal acne safe.
You can alternate this PHA serum with retinol and vitamin C, but avoid using them in the same routine. For example, use Vitamin C in the morning and this serum at night, or use retinol on alternate nights. Do NOT layer this with other AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) in the same routine, as this can lead to over-exfoliation and irritation. PHA is gentler than AHAs/BHAs, but combining exfoliants can still compromise your skin barrier.
This serum is excellent for sensitive, oily, and combination skin types. It's specifically designed for those who find AHAs and BHAs too harsh. The gentle 3% PHA provides exfoliation without irritation, while the patented Anti-Sebum P complex helps control oil. It's also great for exfoliation beginners and those with easily reactive skin. Dry skin types can use it but should follow with a rich moisturizer.
You'll notice immediate hydration and a refreshed feel after the first use. Smoother texture typically appears within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Visible reduction in blackheads and improved brightness usually occurs around 3-4 weeks. For full results including refined pores and consistent glow, expect 6-8 weeks of regular use (2-3x weekly). Results are gradual and subtle compared to stronger exfoliants - this is by design for sensitive skin compatibility.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before essences, serums, and moisturizers. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → This PHA Serum → Essence → Other Serums → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Use on clean, dry skin. Can be used morning or evening, but always follow with SPF 30+ during the day. Use maximum 3 times per week, not daily.
This serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. It contains no heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the PHA and patented Anti-Sebum P complex are designed to help clear and minimize pores. It's suitable for acne-prone skin, though those with fungal acne should avoid it due to the fermented ingredient.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain effectiveness. The 120ml bottle should last approximately 3-4 months when used 2-3 times per week as directed. Check for any changes in color, texture, or smell before use if you've had it for a while.
Verdict: Haruharu Wonder Centella 3% PHA Gentle Liquid Exfoliating Serum is an excellent choice for sensitive skin types and exfoliation beginners seeking gentle yet effective pore care without irritation. The combination of 3% PHA, COSMOS-certified orange water, and Centella Asiatica delivers subtle but noticeable improvements in skin texture, brightness, and sebum control. While it won't deliver dramatic results for those needing stronger exfoliation, its gentle formulation, clean ingredient list, and vegan credentials make it a solid K-beauty staple. The main drawback is the fermented ingredient that makes it unsuitable for fungal acne sufferers. For the best value and gentlest exfoliation experience, this serum delivers on its promises.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 1 |
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Asiatic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Asiaticoside
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Antioxidant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|