Product Description
Product overview
Slurp Decalt is a biphasic liquid cream exfoliant from Seoul-based Slurp Laboratories, engineered to dissolve chronic congestion — blackheads, whiteheads, milia, papules, and bumps — while simultaneously nourishing the skin barrier. Its sebum-mimicking molecular structure allows actives (Gluconolactone 5% PHA + Salicylic Acid 0.5% BHA) to seep directly into pores, clearing impurities from within rather than just the surface. Shake before each use to merge the creamy oil phase with the mineral-rich glacier water base.
Sebum-Mimicking Technology
Decalt's molecular structure is bioengineered to imitate your skin's natural sebum, allowing it to seep into and linger within pore walls — not just skim the surface — for deeper, more consistent results.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSebum-Mimicking Technology
Decalt's molecular structure is bioengineered to imitate your skin's natural sebum, allowing it to seep into and linger within pore walls — not just skim the surface — for deeper, more consistent results.
Dual-Acid Exfoliation (PHA + BHA)
Combines Gluconolactone (PHA, ~5%) for gentle surface renewal and antioxidant protection, with Salicylic Acid (BHA, ~0.5%) that penetrates deep into oil-filled pores to dissolve blockages and control sebum.
Volcanic Ash + Korean Wormwood
Jeju Island Volcanic Ash Extract blots excess sebum and draws impurities to the surface, while Artemisia Princeps (Korean Wormwood) Leaf Extract soothes, calms post-inflammatory redness, and complements acid action.
Barrier-First Hydration
Unlike conventional exfoliants, Decalt simultaneously replenishes with Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Jojoba Oil, Trehalose, and Arginine — hydrating while it exfoliates to prevent over-stripping.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid. Topical BHA at low concentrations (0.5%) is generally considered low-risk, but official guidance recommends avoiding salicylates during pregnancy as a precaution. Consult your doctor or OB-GYN before use.
No ferments, fatty acid esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The formula is considered fungal acne-safe based on its ingredient list.
Zero comedogenic ingredients detected. Jojoba Oil (technically a liquid wax) rates 2/5 at most, but all other oils and actives in this formula are considered non-pore-clogging. Overall comedogenic rating: 1/5.
Slurp Laboratories designed Decalt treating all skin as inherently sensitive. PHA (Gluconolactone) is gentler than AHA and does not increase UV sensitivity, making it suitable for reactive and hypersensitive skin types.
Salicylic Acid is a chemical exfoliant that can mildly increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ the morning after use. Gluconolactone specifically provides UV protective antioxidant benefits.
Safe to use in the same routine on alternating nights. Do not layer Decalt directly with high-concentration Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) on the same application to avoid pH conflict.
Avoid using Decalt and retinol/retinoids on the same evening — both are exfoliating and could over-sensitize the barrier. Alternate on different nights for best results.
Slurp Laboratories confirms Decalt is suitable for teenagers and pre-teens experiencing comedonal acne (open/closed blackheads or whiteheads).
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGluconolactone (PHA) ~3.6–5.4%Proven
The star active of Decalt. A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates dead skin cells on the surface, stimulates skin turnover, and is gentler than AHAs — making it ideal for sensitive and reactive skin. Unlike AHAs, PHAs have a larger molecular size that limits penetration depth, reducing irritation risk.
- Exfoliation: Loosens and sheds corneocytes (dead surface cells) to reveal smoother, brighter skin
- Hydration: Stimulates skin's own hyaluronic acid production and attracts water to the upper skin layers
- Anti-aging: Long-term use (12+ weeks) shown to reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity
- Antioxidant: Proven free radical scavenging activity — provides photoprotective benefit against UV-induced damage
- Anti-acne: Helps decongest pores and reduces comedone formation with consistent use over 12 weeks
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.4–0.9%Proven
An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that uniquely penetrates into sebaceous follicles and pores. Unlike water-soluble AHAs that work only on the surface, Salicylic Acid cuts through excess sebum inside pore walls, dissolving plugs, blackheads, and comedones from within.
- Pore penetration: Lipophilic nature enables it to travel through oil-filled pores rather than sitting on the skin surface
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, actively reducing redness and inflammation around breakouts
- Antibacterial: Disrupts the environment favorable to acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes)
- Keratolytic: Breaks down the protein bonds holding dead cells together, normalizing cell turnover
Glycerin ~2.7–4%Proven
One of the most well-researched and effective humectants in skincare. Naturally present in healthy skin. Draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the stratum corneum, providing immediate and lasting hydration. Works synergistically with exfoliating acids to offset dryness.
- Humectant: Binds up to 3× its weight in water to maintain optimal skin moisture levels
- Barrier support: Helps maintain the integrity of the skin's natural lipid barrier
Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.1–0.4%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid. Penetrates more effectively than high-molecular-weight HA, delivering moisture directly to deeper skin layers. Plumps and cushions skin while acids work to renew the surface.
- Deep hydration: Smaller molecular weight enables penetration beyond the stratum corneum
- Volume: Capable of holding 1,000× its weight in water — instantly plumps fine lines
Squalane ~0.35–0.8%Proven
A stable, plant-derived emollient that matches skin's natural squalene. Seals in moisture without occluding pores. Softens the skin's texture, creates a protective layer, and improves the elegant, non-greasy feel of Decalt's finish.
- Comedogenic rating: 0–1 — will not clog pores
- Emollient: Fills gaps between skin cells, reducing roughness and improving flexibility
Allantoin ~0.3–0.75%Proven
A multifunctional soothing agent derived from comfrey root. Counteracts the potential irritation caused by exfoliating acids by calming inflammation, reducing redness, and helping to heal micro-damage. Also mildly keratolytic — works in synergy with PHAs and BHA.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces cytokine-driven inflammatory response in skin
- Barrier repair: Promotes healthy cell regeneration and wound healing
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate ~0.3–0.75%Promising
A licorice root-derived compound prized for its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties. Potassium salt form has excellent skin compatibility. Helps calm post-exfoliation sensitivity and may assist in fading hyperpigmentation over time.
- Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits hyaluronidase and 5α-reductase enzymes, suppressing skin inflammation pathways
- Brightening: Mild inhibition of melanin synthesis — may gradually even out post-acne marks
Volcanic Ash Extract (Jeju Island) ~0.2–0.75%Promising
Sourced from South Korea's Jeju Island, volcanic ash is rich in minerals and has natural sebum-absorbing properties. Works as a physical adsorbent to draw impurities and excess oil to the skin surface, complementing the chemical action of the acids.
- Sebum control: Physically adsorbs excess oil within pores, reducing shine and congestion
- Pore refining: Helps visibly minimize pore diameter by drawing out deep-seated impurities
Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract (Korean Wormwood) ~0.1–0.45%Promising
A staple in K-beauty formulations, Korean Wormwood is revered for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Works alongside exfoliating acids to calm skin and prevent the over-irritation that traditional exfoliants can cause.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones that suppress inflammatory mediators
- Antibacterial: Demonstrated antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil ~0.55–1.3%Proven
Technically a liquid wax (not an oil), jojoba mimics skin's natural sebum composition more closely than most plant oils. Works as part of Decalt's unique biphasic creamy layer, delivering actives into pores while softening and conditioning the skin surface.
- Sebum mimicry: Wax ester structure closely matches human sebum — absorbs rapidly without greasiness
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains myristic acid and tocopherols with documented anti-inflammatory effects
Arginine ~1.4–2.1%Proven
An amino acid naturally found in human skin. In the context of Decalt, arginine serves a dual role: it acts as a humectant to attract moisture and as a pH buffer that reduces the irritation potential of the exfoliating acids — particularly beneficial when paired with PHAs.
- Acid buffer: Naturally alkaline — neutralizes excess acidity from exfoliating acids, reducing sting risk
- Hydration: Attracts water to the skin surface and is involved in skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF)
27 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Arginine, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Salicylic Acid, Hydroxyacetophenone, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Squalane, Volcanic Ash Extract, Trehalose, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sea Water, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Juniperus Mexicana Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Ethyl Hexanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Decalt to dry, cleansed skin (not damp). Leave on for 15 minutes before proceeding. Use 3–4 times per week in your evening routine. Always follow with SPF the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well Before Use
Decalt is a biphasic formula — the creamy oil phase and the aqueous acid phase separate at rest. Shake thoroughly before each use to emulsify both phases and activate the full formula.
Apply to Dry, Cleansed Skin
After cleansing, pat your face completely dry. Dispense 2–3 pumps (or spills) onto your palm, a cotton pad, or a cotton ball. Apply evenly across the face, paying extra attention to congested zones (nose, chin, forehead).
Wait 15 Minutes
Allow Decalt to work undisturbed for a full 15 minutes. The sebum-mimicking formula seeps into pore walls during this window. Do not rinse off — this is a leave-on treatment.
Continue Your Routine
After 15 minutes, apply your serums, essences, and moisturizer as normal. Do not layer retinol or high-dose Vitamin C directly on top of Decalt on the same evening.
Use SPF the Next Morning
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen in the morning following any evening exfoliant use. While Gluconolactone is UV-protective, Salicylic Acid can mildly increase photosensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with persistent blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- Your skin is oily, combination, or acne-prone
- You want a gentle but effective exfoliant that won't strip your barrier
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to traditional AHAs
- You're dealing with enlarged pores and uneven skin texture
- You want an exfoliant safe for teens and pre-teens with comedonal acne
- You follow a fungal acne-safe skincare routine
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- Your skin is currently broken, severely inflamed, or has open wounds
- You are currently using a high-strength prescription retinoid or multiple other exfoliants
- You need a higher-concentration BHA product (this contains ~0.5% SA)
- You are specifically seeking anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides as a primary concern
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin. BHA penetrates and dissolves sebum plugs, Volcanic Ash absorbs excess oil, and the lightweight liquid finish leaves no greasiness.
Works brilliantly across different facial zones. Targets congested T-zone without over-drying the cheeks thanks to balancing hydration actives.
Zero comedogenic ingredients. BHA + PHA dual action targets existing blemishes and prevents new ones. Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe.
Formulated with sensitive skin in mind. PHA is the gentlest acid type. Allantoin, Arginine, and Korean Wormwood buffer irritation. Start 2x/week; patch test first.
Confirmed suitable for dry skin by the brand. Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, and Squalane counterbalance dryness. Follow with a richer moisturizer. Use 2–3x per week.
Effective maintenance exfoliant. Keeps pores clear, skin texture smooth, and complexion bright without disrupting a balanced skin barrier.
Results timeline
WEEKS 6–12Visibly Smoother Texture & Reduced Congestion
The brand confirms you can expect to see results the morning after your first use — reduced visible congestion, refined pore appearance, and noticeably silkier skin texture. Deeper impurities will continue emerging over following days.
~70% notice immediate texture changePore Minimization & Clearer Skin
With 3–4 applications per week, surface congestion visibly clears. Whiteheads and blackheads begin to dissolve. Skin microflora and sebum production begin rebalancing as pore walls are cleared of buildup.
~75% report clearer skinBrighter Tone & Reduced Breakouts
Consistent exfoliation accelerates cellular turnover. Post-acne hyperpigmentation begins fading, skin tone evens out, and breakout frequency decreases as pores remain clear and sebum production normalizes.
~65% see improved hyperpigmentationSustained Clarity & Anti-Aging Benefits
PHAs require 6–12 weeks for measurable anti-aging results. Fine lines and pore size show improvement as collagen stimulation accumulates. Results are maintained with continued use — this is not a one-time treatment.
~60% notice reduced fine linesRatings by platform
REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible results as early as the next morning after first use
- PHA is gentler than AHA — works for sensitive and hypersensitive skin
- Innovative biphasic, sebum-mimicking formula enables deeper pore penetration
- Zero comedogenic ingredients detected
- Fungal acne safe formulation
- Exfoliates AND hydrates simultaneously — no barrier compromise
- Suitable for all skin types including dry and sensitive
- Jeju Volcanic Ash + Korean Wormwood add K-beauty efficacy heritage
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Reef-friendly formula
Criticized
- Salicylic Acid at ~0.5% is lower than pharmaceutical-grade BHA (1–2%)
- Contains some essential oils (Rosemary, Chamomile, Juniper) — potential irritants for extremely reactive skin
- Not pregnancy-safe without medical clearance due to BHA content
- Must be shaken before each use (added step)
- Requires 15 minutes dwell time — longer than standard toners
- Limited retail availability; primarily sold direct-to-consumer
- Brand has experienced supply chain and shipping delays historically
- Price point ($35 USD) is premium for the category
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery high ingredient-list overlap with Decalt based on INCI comparison (85% match per WIMJ). Contains similar PHA and BHA actives in an accessible drugstore format at a fraction of the price. Less sophisticated biphasic delivery system but a compelling value option for the same exfoliant category.
Shares 79% formula similarity with Decalt according to ingredient analysis. A leave-on chemical exfoliant in the same format and function. Lacks Decalt's unique volcanic ash, Korean wormwood, and biphasic sebum-mimicking technology but delivers comparable surface exfoliation results.
Another K-beauty PHA exfoliant with strong ingredient overlap. Higher PHA concentration (15%) for those seeking more aggressive surface renewal. Does not include the dual BHA component or Decalt's biphasic delivery. Good for those prioritizing PHA-only exfoliation with a K-beauty pedigree.
One of the most popular BHA exfoliants in K-beauty. Uses Betaine Salicylate (a gentler BHA cousin) for pore decongestion. Straightforward formula without PHA or Decalt's special botanicals, but excellent for blackhead-focused concerns at a widely-available price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on your bottle for the exact period.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Avoid storing in a steamy bathroom — heat and humidity can degrade acid actives over time.
150ml bottle designed for dispensing by spill or pour. Shake well before each use to re-emulsify the biphasic formula. Opaque or tinted packaging recommended — keep away from UV light.
At 150ml, this exceeds the 100ml/3.4oz cabin luggage liquid limit. Decant into a TSA-approved container for carry-on travel, or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQDecalt contains Salicylic Acid (BHA, ~0.5%), which is classified as a salicylate. While topical low-concentration BHA presents a minimal systemic risk compared to oral salicylates, official medical guidance and most dermatologists recommend erring on the side of caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please consult your OB-GYN or healthcare provider before using Decalt during pregnancy. Gluconolactone (PHA) and the other hydrating ingredients in Decalt are generally considered safe, but the BHA content warrants medical advice.
Yes — Decalt is considered fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) safe. The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, polysorbates, or the types of long-chain fatty acid esters that feed Malassezia yeast. The Salicylic Acid in Decalt may actually provide some benefit for fungal acne by normalizing the skin's microflora. Always check with a dermatologist if you have a confirmed malassezia diagnosis, as individual ingredient sensitivities can vary.
Use caution when combining Decalt with other active ingredients. Do NOT use Decalt and retinol/retinoids on the same evening — both exfoliate and can over-sensitize the barrier when combined. For Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), avoid layering directly on top of Decalt in the same session, but alternating evenings is safe. Do not combine with other AHA or BHA products in the same routine session to avoid over-exfoliation. If using Slurp Niacid, the brand specifically recommends alternating between Decalt and Niacid in your routine rather than using both simultaneously, due to different pH requirements.
Decalt is formulated for all skin types, including hypersensitive skin — which is the explicit design philosophy of Slurp Laboratories. It performs best on oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to the BHA's oil-penetrating and pore-decongesting properties. Dry and sensitive skin types can also benefit, as the formula includes extensive hydrating and soothing actives (Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Glycerin, Allantoin, Arginine). Start with 2–3 applications per week if you have sensitive or dry skin and increase as tolerated.
Slurp Laboratories confirms you can expect to notice reduced congestion, minimized pore appearance, and silkier texture the morning after your first use. However, deeper impurities will continue to clear over several days and weeks as the formula works through various layers of congestion. For sustained pore clarity and breakout reduction, expect 2–4 weeks of consistent use (3–4x per week). For anti-aging benefits like fine line reduction and improved elasticity from the PHA, allow 6–12 weeks of consistent use. Results fluctuate initially as deeper comedones decongest at different rates.
Decalt is applied as the second step — immediately after cleansing, to dry skin (not damp). It functions as a leave-on exfoliant/toner step. Apply 2–3 pumps to dry, cleansed skin and wait 15 minutes before continuing with the rest of your routine (serums, essences, moisturizer). Use Decalt in your evening routine 3–4 times per week. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ the following morning, as exfoliating acids can mildly increase photosensitivity.
No — Decalt has an overall comedogenic rating of 1/5, and ingredient analysis tools detect zero comedogenic ingredients in its formula. Jojoba Oil (technically a liquid wax) is often cited at a rating of 2/5 in some older comedogenicity indices, but contemporary dermatological consensus considers it non-pore-clogging for most people, especially at the concentrations used here. Salicylic Acid actively unclogs pores, and Gluconolactone prevents the buildup of dead skin cells that contribute to comedone formation. Decalt is both non-comedogenic and actively anti-comedonal.
Decalt has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, store in a cool, dry location away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight to preserve the stability of the Gluconolactone (PHA) and Salicylic Acid (BHA) actives. The biphasic formula may separate on standing — this is normal. Shake well before each use. A 150ml bottle used 3–4 times per week at the recommended 2–3 pump application will typically last 3–5 months, well within the PAO window.
Verdict: Slurp Decalt is one of the most thoughtfully engineered exfoliants in the K-beauty space. Its biphasic, sebum-mimicking delivery system is a genuine innovation — allowing a gentle PHA + BHA combination to work within pore walls rather than just on the surface. The formula masterfully balances active exfoliation with comprehensive barrier support, making it one of the few acid exfoliants that simultaneously clears congestion, hydrates, soothes, and refines texture without compromise. Real-world reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with users reporting dramatic improvements in hyperpigmentation, pore size, and skin texture. Minor drawbacks include limited retail availability, the need to shake before each use, the below-pharmaceutical BHA concentration, and the caution required during pregnancy. For oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types in particular — Decalt is a standout product worth the investment.
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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|






