Clarity Concentrate
Clarity Concentrate
Product Description
Pixi Beauty Clarity Concentrate is a lightweight, water-based clarifying serum that pairs a trio of exfoliating acids (glycolic, lactic and salicylic) with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and soothing botanicals. Designed for nightly use, it gently resurfaces, unclogs pores and balances oil while hydrating, helping to refine texture and promote a smoother, less breakout-prone complexion without fragrance, oils or parabens.
โจ Texture & Feel
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
Glycolic and lactic AHAs resurface the skin's top layer while salicylic BHA dives into pores to clear congestion.
Pore Refining
Helps unclog and minimise the look of enlarged pores for a smoother, more even-looking surface.
Hydrate While You Exfoliate
Sodium hyaluronate, glycerin and aloe deliver moisture so skin feels balanced rather than stripped.
Soothing Botanicals
Niacinamide, licorice root and willow bark help calm and brighten as the acids do their work.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains salicylic acid (BHA) and AHAs. Low-percentage topical BHA is often considered low-risk, but many clinicians advise caution. Pixi recommends consulting your physician.
Independently flagged as fungal-acne safe โ it contains no esters, fatty acids or polysorbates that typically feed malassezia.
Oil-free, water-based formula rated very low on the comedogenic scale โ unlikely to clog pores.
Already an acid blend โ avoid stacking with strong retinoids, vitamin C or extra exfoliants in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation.
AHAs can make skin more sun-sensitive. Use at night and apply daily SPF to protect freshly exfoliated skin.
Glycolic and salicylic acids may trigger flare-ups or worsen dryness in very reactive, rosacea- or eczema-prone skin. Patch test first.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งช Glycolic Acid AHA ยท % undisclosed Proven
The most-researched alpha hydroxy acid. Its small molecular size lets it penetrate deeply to dissolve the "glue" between dead skin cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin and supporting collagen over time.
- Mechanism: Breaks down corneocyte bonds for surface renewal and works best at a pH of 3โ4.
- Research: Shown to stimulate collagen production and improve tone, texture and hydration with regular use.
๐ฅ Lactic Acid AHA ยท % undisclosed Proven
A gentler AHA with larger molecules than glycolic acid, so it exfoliates the surface while irritating less. It also doubles as a humectant, drawing water into the skin and supporting the natural moisturizing factor.
- Dual action: Exfoliates dead cells and hydrates simultaneously, making it beginner-friendly.
- Barrier support: Studies suggest it can boost ceramide production and help balance the skin microbiome.
๐ฏ Salicylic Acid BHA ยท % undisclosed Proven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates into pores to clear out sebum and buildup. Structurally related to aspirin, it also has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties that make it ideal for acne-prone skin.
- Pore action: Oil solubility lets it tackle blackheads and prevent future breakouts from inside the pore.
- FDA: Recognised as an OTC acne active at 0.5โ2% concentrations.
๐ Niacinamide Vitamin B3 ยท % undisclosed Proven
A multitasking form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil, fades dark spots and helps minimise the look of pores. Well tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin.
- How it works: Converts to NAD in skin cells, fuelling repair, collagen support and antioxidant defence.
- Benefits: Documented improvements in barrier function, redness, oiliness and hyperpigmentation.
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.1โ2% Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid and a powerful humectant. It binds water to the skin's surface to keep it plump and hydrated while the exfoliating acids work, helping prevent the tight, stripped feeling acids can leave behind.
- Hydration: Holds many times its weight in water for immediate surface moisture.
- Comfort: Counterbalances the drying potential of glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids.
๐ฟ Licorice Root Extract Glycyrrhiza Glabra Promising
A soothing botanical valued for brightening and calming. Its compound glabridin is a potent antioxidant that can help block UV-induced pigmentation, while liquiritin helps fade dark spots by interrupting melanin production.
- Brightening: Liquiritin inhibits tyrosinase, supporting a more even tone.
- Soothing: Glycyrrhizin offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits to calm irritation.
22 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Betaine, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Salicylic Acid, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, Thymus Vulgaris Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use in the PM on clean, dry skin before heavier creams. Because it is an exfoliating acid serum, follow with a moisturizer and always apply SPF the next morning.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse
Start with freshly cleansed, dry skin in the evening.
Apply 2โ3 Drops
Smooth two to three drops over the face, focusing on problem areas prone to blackheads or breakouts. A little goes a long way.
Let It Absorb
Allow the lightweight formula to sink in for around 30 seconds before the next step.
Moisturize
Seal in hydration with your usual night moisturizer.
Protect by Day
Apply broad-spectrum SPF every morning โ AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Start 2โ3 nights a week and build up as tolerated.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin with visible pores.
- You want gentle daily chemical exfoliation without a strong peel.
- You prefer a fragrance-free, oil-free, fungal-acne-safe formula.
- You're looking to smooth texture and even out tone over time.
- You want an affordable AHA + BHA serum under $25.
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, eczema- or rosacea-prone skin that flares with acids.
- You already use strong retinoids or other exfoliating acids nightly.
- You want disclosed, high-percentage actives for targeted treatment.
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and prefer to avoid BHA without medical advice.
- You need a large-format bottle for body use (this is 30ml).
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Salicylic acid cuts through oil and the watery finish never feels greasy โ an ideal match.
Balances oilier zones while hyaluronic acid and glycerin keep drier areas comfortable.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe, with BHA targeting clogged pores and breakouts.
Hydrating humectants help, but acids can be drying โ limit frequency and layer a richer moisturizer on top.
Fragrance-free and soothing botanicals help, but the acid blend may sting reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Patch test.
๐ Results Timeline
Smoother, Refreshed Feel
Skin feels clean and slightly smoother right away, with a hydrated, non-greasy finish after the first use.
Most users noticeClearer, Less Congested
Pores look cleaner and minor congestion begins to ease as the acids regulate buildup. Some adjustment dryness is normal.
Common feedbackRefined Texture & Tone
Texture appears smoother, pores look minimised and tone reads more even with consistent nightly use.
Reported by many reviewersBrighter, More Balanced Skin
Fewer breakouts and a brighter, more balanced complexion as cell turnover and oil control improve over time.
Long-term usersโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Effective trio of acids that clarifies and refines pores.
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing and non-greasy.
- Fragrance-free, oil-free and fungal-acne safe.
- Hydrates while exfoliating thanks to HA, glycerin and aloe.
- Cruelty-free, vegan and affordable (~$24).
โ Criticized
- Active percentages are not disclosed by the brand.
- Small 30ml bottle for the price.
- Can feel drying or irritating on sensitive, dry or rosacea-prone skin.
- Not strong enough for those wanting a high-percentage treatment.
- Requires diligent daily SPF use.
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
A focused 2% BHA at a disclosed strength. Targets pores and oil like Pixi's salicylic acid, but lacks the AHA blend, niacinamide and hydrating botanicals.
A BHA serum with added hyaluronic acid for hydration. Similar oil-control and pore focus, but a single-acid approach rather than Pixi's multi-acid clarity formula.
Pairs 2% BHA with niacinamide, zinc and soothing extracts. Closer in spirit to Pixi's balanced approach, though it leans BHA rather than a true AHA + BHA mix.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Pixi Clarity Concentrate (This Product)
$24.00Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
$35.00The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
$9.50Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth BHA + AHA Serum
$42.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed to protect the acids.
Glass bottle with a dropper applicator (30ml / 1.01 fl oz).
Yes โ 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
It contains salicylic acid (a BHA) plus glycolic and lactic acids. Low-percentage topical BHA is often considered low-risk by many clinicians, but recommendations vary and the exact percentages here are not disclosed. Pixi advises that every pregnancy is unique and to consult your physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes. It has been independently flagged as fungal-acne (malassezia) safe โ the formula contains no esters, fatty acids, oils or polysorbates that typically trigger malassezia, making it a good option for those managing fungal acne.
This serum already contains AHAs and a BHA, so adding more exfoliating acids in the same routine risks over-exfoliation. It's generally best not to layer it directly with retinol or vitamin C โ alternate them on different nights instead. Introduce slowly and listen to your skin.
It shines on oily, combination and acne-prone skin thanks to its oil-clearing, pore-refining actives. It's also marketed as suitable for all skin types, but very dry, sensitive, eczema- or rosacea-prone skin should use it cautiously and patch test first.
Skin often feels smoother immediately, with clearer-looking pores within the first week or two. Visible improvements in texture and tone typically develop over 4โ6 weeks, and a brighter, more balanced complexion over 8โ12 weeks of consistent nightly use.
Use it in the PM after cleansing (and toner, if used) and before heavier serums and moisturizer. Apply 2โ3 drops to clean, dry skin, focusing on problem areas, then follow with moisturizer. Always apply SPF the next morning.
No โ it's an oil-free, water-based formula rated very low (around 1/5) on the comedogenic scale and is designed to help unclog pores rather than block them, making it a sound choice for breakout-prone skin.
Around 12 months after opening (12M PAO). Store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and keep the bottle closed to keep the acids stable and effective.
Verdict: Pixi Beauty Clarity Concentrate is a well-rounded, affordable clarifying serum that pairs glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and soothing botanicals. It's lightweight, fragrance-free and fungal-acne safe, making it a smart daily option for oily, combination and acne-prone skin that wants gentle exfoliation with hydration built in. The main trade-offs are undisclosed active percentages and a small 30ml bottle, plus the usual acid caveats for very dry or reactive skin. Pair it with diligent SPF and it delivers smoother texture, clearer pores and a brighter look over time.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|