Deep Clean AHA Cleanser
Deep Clean AHA Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A soap-free, dermatologist-tested foaming gel cleanser powered by Glycolic Acid (AHA) and Gluconolactone (PHA) that deep cleans pores, removes makeup and impurities, and gently exfoliates for smoother, brighter, and more clarified skin.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Foaming gel formula effectively lifts away makeup, surface oils, and daily impurities without stripping the skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
Foaming gel formula effectively lifts away makeup, surface oils, and daily impurities without stripping the skin.
Gentle AHA/PHA Exfoliation
Glycolic Acid and Gluconolactone work in synergy to dissolve dead skin cells and promote smoother texture with each wash.
pH-Balanced Formula
Maintains the skin's natural pH balance while cleansing, keeping your acid mantle intact and healthy.
Dermatologist-Developed
Created by the pioneers of AHA skincare science, backed by over 100 patents and clinical publications from NeoStrata.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Glycolic Acid (AHA). Low-concentration AHAs in wash-off products are generally considered low-risk, but consult your OB-GYN before use. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate (an ester) and Polysorbate ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.
Rated 1/5 comedogenic. As a rinse-off cleanser, pore-clogging risk is minimal. No heavy oils or waxes in the formula.
AHA increases photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day and for one week after discontinuing use.
Includes Parfum (Fragrance), Blue 1 (CI 42090), and Yellow 5 (CI 19140). Those with fragrance or dye sensitivities should patch test first.
Formulated without parabens, soap, gluten, lanolin, talc, or nickel. Preserved with Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, and Caprylyl Glycol.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid (AHA) ~2-4%Proven
The smallest and most researched Alpha Hydroxy Acid, derived naturally from sugar cane. Penetrates deeply to dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together, revealing brighter and smoother skin underneath.
- Exfoliation: Breaks down the intercellular "glue" (desmosomes) for effective chemical exfoliation
- Collagen boost: At higher concentrations (>10%), proven to stimulate collagen synthesis and increase skin thickness
- Brightening: Accelerates cell turnover to reduce hyperpigmentation, uneven tone, and dull complexion
- Pore refinement: Helps decongest pores by clearing buildup of sebum and debris
Gluconolactone (PHA) ~1-3%Proven
A next-generation Polyhydroxy Acid found naturally in human skin. Provides gentle exfoliation with added moisturizing, antioxidant, and skin barrier-strengthening benefits — all without the irritation of traditional AHAs.
- Gentle exfoliation: Larger molecular size means slower penetration and less irritation than glycolic acid
- Antioxidant: Acts as a chelating agent, binding to pro-oxidant metals to protect skin from free radical damage
- Hydration: Humectant properties help attract and retain moisture in the skin
- Barrier support: Strengthens the skin barrier over time, making it suitable for sensitive skin types
Cocamidopropyl BetaineCleansing Agent
A mild, coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant widely used in gentle cleansing formulas. Creates a rich, creamy lather while reducing the harshness of primary surfactants in the formula.
- Mildness: Significantly reduces the irritation potential of stronger surfactants like SLES
- Foam booster: Enhances foam quality and density for a more luxurious cleansing experience
- Conditioning: Leaves skin feeling soft and conditioned after rinsing
16 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, TEA-Lauryl Sulfate, Propylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Gluconolactone, Polyquaternium-10, Benzophenone-4, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Parfum (Fragrance), Blue 1 (CI 42090), Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first step, AM and PM. Follow with Exuviance HydraPrep pH Balance Toner for best results. Always apply SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face and hands to prepare the skin for cleansing.
Pump & Lather
Dispense a small amount (1-2 pumps) onto fingertips and work into a gentle lather. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Apply to face and neck using upward circular motions for 30-60 seconds, avoiding the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with toner and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a cleanser that exfoliates while it washes
- You struggle with dull, uneven skin texture or tone
- You have oily, normal, or combination skin
- You want to prep skin for better serum and treatment absorption
- You need a makeup remover that also deep cleans pores
- You are looking for an anti-aging cleanser with proven AHA technology
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or severely dehydrated skin (may feel stripping)
- You are extremely sensitive to fragrance or dyes
- You have active fungal acne (formula contains potential triggers)
- You prefer fragrance-free and dye-free formulations
- You need a waterproof makeup remover (use a separate oil cleanser first)
- You are new to acids and prefer an even gentler entry point
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESGlycolic acid effectively cuts through excess sebum and clears congested pores. The foaming formula feels thorough without over-drying.
Balances oily T-zone while the PHA component helps hydrate drier cheek areas. Ideal for combination skin types.
Provides a thorough cleanse with gentle exfoliation benefits. Keeps normal skin looking bright and refined.
The foaming surfactants may feel slightly stripping on very dry skin. Follow immediately with a rich moisturizer. Consider using only in the evening.
The PHA (Gluconolactone) buffers potential irritation, but contains fragrance and SLES. Patch test recommended; start with once-daily use.
AHA exfoliation helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Low comedogenic risk as a wash-off product. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Daily AHA exfoliation promotes cell turnover and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots over time.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Instantly Smoother & Cleaner Skin
Skin feels deeply cleansed, refreshed, and noticeably smoother. Pores appear clearer and the complexion looks more luminous.
100% noticed smoother texture (brand clinical study)Improved Clarity & Reduced Dullness
Dead skin cell buildup diminishes noticeably. Skin looks brighter and more even in tone. Makeup applies more smoothly.
97% noticed cleaner pores (brand clinical study)Visible Texture Refinement
Consistent use leads to refined skin texture, reduced roughness, and visibly minimized pore appearance. Fine lines appear softened.
93% noticed more radiant skin (brand clinical study)Long-Term Skin Renewal
Cumulative AHA and PHA exfoliation delivers a renewed, more youthful-looking complexion. Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to fade.
90% noticed overall improvement (user reports)Ratings by platform
814+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively deep cleans without leaving skin feeling tight or dry
- A little product goes a long way — excellent lather and value
- Gentle enough for twice-daily use, even on sensitive skin
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture and brightness from first use
- Dual AHA + PHA exfoliation is both effective and less irritating
- Soap-free formula respects skin's pH balance
- Dermatologist-developed with decades of clinical research backing
- 212ml bottle lasts 2-3 months with regular use
Criticized
- Contains added fragrance and synthetic dyes
- Not fungal acne safe due to PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate
- May not fully remove heavy or waterproof makeup alone
- Contains SLES and TEA-Lauryl Sulfate (concern for ultra-sensitive skin)
- Glycolic acid concentration not disclosed on label
- Some users report a slight residue if not rinsed thoroughly
- Higher price than drugstore AHA cleansers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses Salicylic Acid (BHA) + Gluconolactone (PHA) instead of Glycolic Acid. Includes ceramides for barrier repair. Fragrance-free. Better for acne-prone skin, less exfoliating than AHA-based formula.
Contains Glycolic Acid as the primary AHA exfoliant in a gel cleanser format. Simpler formula without PHA. More affordable, but lacks the dual AHA/PHA synergy and dermatologist-grade formulation.
Glycolic acid-based cleanser with a mud-like texture that draws out impurities. Contains kaolin clay for extra oil absorption. Different texture experience but similar AHA exfoliation concept.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
NeoStrata Foaming Glycolic Wash
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed after each use.
Squeeze tube with pump dispenser. Opaque packaging protects AHA actives from light degradation.
No — 212ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit. Decant into a travel container for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This cleanser contains Glycolic Acid (an AHA), which is generally considered low-risk in wash-off products at low concentrations. However, there is limited research on AHA use during pregnancy. It does NOT contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before incorporating any acid-based product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, an ester derived from coconut oil and glycerin, which can potentially feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you have active pityrosporum folliculitis, consider a fungal acne-safe alternative such as a simple sulfate-based cleanser without esters or fatty acids.
Since this is a wash-off cleanser with low-concentration AHAs, it is generally safe to use alongside most other active ingredients. However, if you are using strong leave-on retinol, AHA, or BHA treatments, be cautious of over-exfoliation. Start by alternating your acid cleanser and leave-on treatments on different days, then gradually increase frequency as tolerated. Vitamin C serums can typically be used in the same routine without issues — just apply after cleansing.
This cleanser is best suited for normal, combination, oily, and mature skin types. It works excellently for anyone dealing with dull, rough, or uneven skin texture. Those with very dry or extremely sensitive skin should use it once daily (PM only) and follow with a rich moisturizer. It is dermatologist and allergy tested, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types.
Many users notice smoother, cleaner-feeling skin after just one use. In the brand's clinical study, 100% of respondents reported smoother skin texture after a single application. More significant improvements in tone evenness, pore appearance, and radiance typically become visible within 2-4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Fine line reduction and dark spot fading generally require 6-12 weeks.
This cleanser is Step 1 of your routine, used on wet skin morning and evening. If you double cleanse, use an oil-based cleanser first to remove sunscreen and makeup, then follow with this AHA cleanser as your second cleanse. After rinsing, continue with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Exuviance recommends pairing it with their HydraPrep pH Balance Toner.
This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. As a rinse-off product, the ingredients have minimal contact time with skin, further reducing any pore-clogging risk. The AHA and PHA actives actually help keep pores clear by dissolving the debris and dead cells that contribute to congestion. It is suitable for acne-prone skin (but not fungal acne).
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With twice-daily use, the 212ml tube typically lasts approximately 2-3 months, as a small amount creates a generous lather. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain the stability of the glycolic acid and PHA actives.
Verdict: Exuviance Deep Clean AHA Cleanser is a well-formulated, dermatologist-developed foaming cleanser that delivers genuine exfoliation benefits with every wash. The dual AHA + PHA approach provides effective yet gentle resurfacing, making it a standout choice for those seeking smoother, brighter skin through their cleansing step. Backed by over 30 years of NeoStrata's AHA research and strong real-world reviews, it earns its place in the routine of anyone with normal, oily, combination, or mature skin. Points deducted for the inclusion of fragrance, synthetic dyes, and its non-fungal-acne-safe status. For the price point (~$32.50 for 212ml), it offers solid value with clinical-grade performance that bridges the gap between drugstore and professional-grade cleansers.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Tea-Lauryl Sulfate
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Foaming
|
|