Clear Clarifying Skin Serum
Clear Clarifying Skin Serum
Product Description
Product overview
By Ellana Mineral Cosmetics — a lightweight, fast-absorbing clarifying serum powered by 10% Azeclair™ (Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate), an azelaic acid derivative that works to regulate oil production, fade post-acne marks, and soothe blemish-prone skin. Fortified with a botanical complex of Centella Asiatica, Green Tea, Licorice, Chamomile, and Rosemary for calm, clearer, more balanced skin.
Clears & Regulates
10% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate — a water-soluble azelaic acid derivative — helps normalize sebum and reduce breakouts without irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYClears & Regulates
10% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate — a water-soluble azelaic acid derivative — helps normalize sebum and reduce breakouts without irritation.
Brightens Post-Acne Marks
Inhibits tyrosinase activity to fade dark spots, PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), and uneven tone over time.
Soothes & Calms
Centella Asiatica, Chamomile, and Licorice Root reduce redness, calm angry breakouts, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Antioxidant Shield
Green Tea (EGCG), Polygonum Cuspidatum (resveratrol source), and Rosemary extract defend against free radicals and pollution.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate is considered safe during pregnancy, but always consult your OB-GYN.
Free from fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and ferments that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne/pityrosporum folliculitis.
Oil-free, silicone-free water-based formula. Will not clog pores or cause congestion.
Gentle enough to layer with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, and sunscreen. No pH conflicts.
Contains Chamomilla Recutita. Those with ragweed or daisy family allergies should patch test before full-face use.
Apply a pea-sized amount on the inner elbow, wait 24 hours, and check for any reaction before full-face application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPotassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (Azeclair™) ~10%Proven
A water-soluble derivative of azelaic acid and glycine. It delivers the proven benefits of azelaic acid — sebum regulation, anti-inflammatory action, and tyrosinase inhibition — in a gentler, more cosmetically elegant form that doesn't sting or flake like traditional azelaic acid.
- Function: Sebum-regulating, brightening (tyrosinase inhibitor), anti-inflammatory
- Research: Studied for rosacea management and melasma treatment; a 2023 study found 5% PAD + niacinamide reduced melanin production over 6 weeks
- Advantage: Water-soluble (unlike pure azelaic acid), so it layers beautifully under makeup with no grit
Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica) ~3%Proven
Also known as Gotu Kola or Cica, this herbal powerhouse contains asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid — active triterpenes that soothe inflammation, speed wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, collagen-stimulating
- Research: Clinically shown to reduce erythema (redness) and support barrier repair in acne-damaged skin
- Synergy: Pairs beautifully with azelaic acid derivatives to calm active breakouts
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract ~2%Proven
Packed with polyphenols and catechins (EGCG is the superstar), green tea is a clinically proven antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and sebum-reducing agent — a triple threat for oily, acne-prone skin.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, sebum-regulating
- Research: Topical EGCG has been shown in studies to reduce acne lesion counts and oil production
- Bonus: Offers mild UV protection (does not replace SPF)
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract ~1%Proven
Contains glabridin and liquiritin — powerful brightening compounds that inhibit melanin production — along with glycyrrhizin, an anti-inflammatory compound that calms irritation and redness.
- Function: Brightening, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
- Research: Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase more effectively than hydroquinone in some studies, with none of the harsh side effects
- Best for: Post-acne dark spots (PIH) and uneven skin tone
Botanical Soothing Complex ~2%Promising
A synergistic blend ofPolygonum Cuspidatum Root (Japanese Knotweed, a source of resveratrol),Scutellaria Baicalensis (Chinese Skullcap, with baicalin),Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile, with bisabolol), andRosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary, with rosmarinic acid).
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial (including against Malassezia and C. acnes)
- Research: Baicalin and resveratrol both show promising free-radical scavenging activity in in-vitro studies
- Benefit: Multi-layered redness reduction and barrier support
Sodium Lactate + Allantoin <1%Proven
Sodium Lactate is a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) component — a humectant that draws water into the skin and helps maintain pH balance. Allantoin is a gentle soother that promotes cell turnover and reduces irritation.
- Function: Humectant, pH-balancing, skin-softening, keratolytic
- Research: Both ingredients are dermatologist-favorites for sensitive, reactive, and acne-prone skin
- Benefit: Offsets any potential drying effect of actives in the formula
17 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Glutamate, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Allantoin, Sodium Citrate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizer. Can be used twice daily (AM & PM).
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with freshly cleansed, slightly damp skin. Apply your hydrating toner or essence first if you use one.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Press the pump to dispense 2–3 drops into your palm or directly onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way.
Gently Tap & Pat
Tap onto the face and neck, focusing on areas with breakouts, oiliness, or dark spots. Do not rub vigorously.
Let It Absorb
Wait 30–60 seconds for full absorption, then continue with moisturizer. In AM, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Frequency
Use AM and PM daily. Can be used long-term — consistency (4–8 weeks) is key for visible results on acne marks.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads, closed comedones, or hormonal breakouts
- You have post-acne dark spots (PIH) or uneven tone
- You want a gentler alternative to 10% pure azelaic acid
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe alternatives to retinol or salicylic acid
- You're prone to fungal acne and need a safe active serum
- You have mild rosacea, redness, or reactive skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have severely dry or dehydrated skin (not enough occlusive hydration)
- You need prescription-strength acne treatment (this is cosmetic, not clinical)
- You're allergic to chamomile, ragweed, or the daisy family
- You're looking specifically for exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) — this is not exfoliating
- You need deep anti-aging/anti-wrinkle actives (zero anti-wrinkle efficacy per ingredient analysis)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Watery texture absorbs in seconds and actively regulates sebum. Leaves a matte-natural finish.
Balances oily T-zone without dehydrating drier cheeks. Reliable daily-use serum.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and targets both active breakouts and post-acne marks.
Fragrance-free and soothing (Cica + Chamomile). Patch test if prone to chamomile/ragweed allergy.
Can be used, but low occlusivity (2.2/10 moisture rating) means you'll need a richer moisturizer on top.
Helps fade age spots and dull tone. Not a primary anti-wrinkle product — pair with retinol or peptides PM.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Immediate Calm
Skin feels soothed and less angry. Redness around active pimples noticeably reduced. Oily T-zone feels more balanced by end of day.
72% noticedLess Oil, Fewer New Breakouts
Sebum production feels more regulated. Fewer new papules and clogged pores. Existing blemishes heal faster.
68% noticedVisible Texture Refinement
Pores appear smaller, surface texture smoother. Early fading of shallow post-acne dark spots begins.
61% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Significant fading of PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Skin tone visibly more even, clearer, and radiant.
54% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 10% PAD (Azeclair™) is gentler than pure azelaic acid — no stinging
- Visibly calms active pimples and redness within days
- Lightweight, fragrance-free, layers beautifully under makeup
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding friendly
- Clean, well-researched ingredient list with no fillers
- Fades post-acne marks with consistent use
- Made in the Philippines by a trusted clean-beauty brand
Criticized
- Small 30 ml bottle — users may go through it in 4–6 weeks
- Not exfoliating — those wanting AHA/BHA action need a separate product
- Low occlusivity — dry skin types need a richer moisturizer on top
- Contains chamomile — potential allergen for ragweed-sensitive users
- Results on stubborn, deep PIH can take 8+ weeks
- Limited global availability outside Southeast Asia
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUses pure azelaic acid instead of PAD, delivering the same 10% strength at a lower price. Texture is thicker and can pill; more likely to sting sensitive skin. Not water-soluble.
Cream-gel hybrid format with 10% azelaic acid plus salicylic acid. More effective exfoliation, but can be drying. Adds BHA — not pregnancy-safe unlike the Ellana.
Combines azelaic acid with niacinamide for brightening. Thicker, more lotion-like texture. Similar efficacy profile, but less soothing botanical complex.
Pure azelaic acid at 10% in an allantoin-buffered base. Affordable and effective for acne, but lacks Ellana's full botanical soothing complex (no Cica, Licorice, or Green Tea).
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening (unusually long for a natural formula — no fragrance or essential oils means better stability)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Room temperature is ideal; no refrigeration needed.
30 ml frosted tubular glass bottle with a gel pump and full cover — hygienic, air-tight, and protects from light exposure.
Yes — well under 100 ml TSA/airline carry-on limit. Glass bottle; wrap in padding to prevent breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients dermatologists advise pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid. Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (the active) is derived from azelaic acid, which is generally considered one of the safest acne actives during pregnancy. That said, we always recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing any new active product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes. The formula contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or ferments — the ingredient classes known to feed Malassezia yeast. Every ingredient in the INCI has been screened against the SkinSort and Folliculitis Scout fungal-acne databases. It is an excellent choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne) or who cannot use most "hydrating" serums.
Yes to all. Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate is one of the most layer-friendly actives — it has no pH conflicts and does not destabilize vitamin C or retinol. For best tolerance: apply this serum AM and save retinol for PM. Pair with vitamin C in the morning for a brightening combo, or with AHA/BHA at night (use on alternating nights if you have sensitive skin).
It's best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin — Ellana explicitly formulated it for these skin types. It's also excellent for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin due to the gentle PAD (vs. pure azelaic acid) and the soothing botanical complex. Dry skin can use it, but will need a more occlusive moisturizer on top, since this formula has low occlusivity (2.2/10 moisturizing rating).
Most users report calming of active pimples and reduced redness within 3–7 days. Sebum regulation and fewer new breakouts typically appear within 1–2 weeks. Visible fading of post-acne dark spots (PIH) takes 4–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, and significant tone-evening can take 8–12 weeks. Deeper PIH or melasma may require longer. Consistency is essential — skipping days slows progress noticeably.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Order: cleanser → toner → essence (optional) → Clear Clarifying Serum → heavier treatment serum (optional) → moisturizer → sunscreen (AM). Because it's water-based and lightweight, it goes near the start of the hydration layers, not the end.
No. The formula has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 — it is completely non-comedogenic. It contains no oils, no silicones, no mineral oil, and no known pore-clogging ingredients. It's water-based and the Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate active actually helps regulate sebum and unclog existing comedones over time.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 24 months, which is unusually long for a natural-based formula — this is possible because the serum is fragrance-free, essential-oil-free, and properly preserved with phenoxyethanol + ethylhexylglycerin. The frosted glass bottle with airless pump further protects the formula from light and oxygen. Store in a cool, dry place and discard if color, smell, or texture change noticeably.
Verdict: The Ellana Clear Clarifying Skin Serum is one of the most thoughtfully formulated azelaic-acid-derivative serums on the market. At 10% Azeclair™ (Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate) paired with a rich botanical calming complex — Cica, Green Tea, Licorice, Chamomile, and Rosemary — it delivers real clarity benefits (oil control, PIH fading, redness reduction) with almost zero irritation risk. It's pregnancy-safe, fungal-acne-safe, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free — an unusually clean profile for an active serum. The only real drawbacks are the small 30 ml size and low occlusivity (dry skin will need a richer moisturizer on top). For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin — especially Filipino/Southeast Asian skin prone to PIH — this is a standout.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lactate
Humectant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|






