Exfoliant Solution
Exfoliant Solution
Product Description
A prescription-strength exfoliant solution powered by Tretinoin and Hydroquinone that treats acne, fades dark spots, and promotes skin renewal in just 60 days. The Philippines' most iconic and affordable anti-acne depigmenting treatment since 2001.
โจ Texture & Feel
Prescription-Strength Actives
Contains Tretinoin (retinoic acid) and Hydroquinone at clinically effective concentrations used in dermatological practice worldwide.
3-in-1 Skin Renewal
Fights active acne, fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and accelerates skin cell turnover for comprehensive skin renewal.
3 Strength Variants
#1 (0.01% tretinoin) for mild acne, #2 (0.025%) for moderate acne, and #3 (0.025% + stronger formulation) for severe acne.
Extremely Affordable
One of the most cost-effective tretinoin + hydroquinone solutions available, delivering dermatologist-grade results at a fraction of the price.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Tretinoin (retinoid) and Hydroquinone, both contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Do not use if pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.
The original formulation (tretinoin, hydroquinone, alcohol) does not contain ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast.
Both active ingredients significantly increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) is mandatory. Use only at night.
Do not use continuously for more than 60 days. Prolonged use beyond 2 months may cause ochronosis (paradoxical darkening) in sun-exposed areas.
Perform a 24โ48 hour patch test on the inner arm before first use. Discontinue immediately if severe redness, rash, or swelling occurs.
Not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Dermatologist-tested safe for adults 18โ35 years old.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งฌ Tretinoin (Retinoic Acid) 0.01โ0.025% Gold Standard
The only FDA-approved topical anti-aging ingredient. Unlike retinol, tretinoin is already in its active form (retinoic acid) so it works immediately on skin cells without needing conversion. It accelerates cell turnover, unclogs pores, reduces sebum production, and stimulates collagen synthesis.
- Efficacy: Studies show tretinoin can boost collagen production by up to 80% and is effective at reducing wrinkles, acne, and hyperpigmentation.
- Mechanism: Binds directly to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) in skin cells to normalize keratinization and promote healthy cell behavior.
- Strength Variants: #1 contains 10mg/100g (0.01%), #2 and #3 contain 25mg/100g (0.025%).
โจ Hydroquinone 2% Proven
The dermatological gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. It effectively lightens dark spots, melasma, freckles, age spots, and post-acne marks.
- Mechanism: Decreases the activity of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) to gradually even out skin tone.
- Concentration: All three Maxi-Peel variants contain 2g/100g (2%), the standard therapeutic concentration.
- Regulation: Prescription-only in the US, EU, and many countries. Banned for OTC sale in the EU. Available OTC in the Philippines under BFAD approval.
๐งด Alcohol (Solvent Base) ~60% Vehicle
Serves as the primary solvent and penetration enhancer for the active ingredients. Creates a fast-drying, lightweight vehicle that allows tretinoin and hydroquinone to absorb quickly into the skin.
- Function: Enhances skin penetration of active ingredients, acts as an antimicrobial preservative, and provides an astringent effect.
- Trade-off: Can be very drying, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin. Always follow with a moisturizer.
3 ingredients (Original Formulation)
Tretinoin USP, Hydroquinone USP, Alcohol 60%
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use only at night as part of the Maxi-Glow Regimen. Apply sunscreen every morning (SPF 30+). Do not combine with other toners, exfoliants, or whitening products during the 60-day treatment cycle.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Wash your face with a gentle antibacterial facial cleanser (such as Maxi-Peel Facial Wash) to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Pat dry completely.
Apply the Exfoliant Solution
Place 2โ4 drops on a cotton ball or pad. Gently dab onto the face in an upward motion. Avoid the eye area, lips, and sides of the nose. Do not over-soak the cotton.
Let It Dry
Allow the solution to fully absorb and dry on the skin. You may feel a mild stinging or tingling sensation โ this is normal.
Apply Moisturizer
Follow immediately with a moisturizing cream to soothe the skin and counteract dryness from the alcohol base. Never skip this step.
Sunscreen in the Morning
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) every morning and reapply every 2โ4 hours. Your skin is significantly more sun-sensitive during the treatment cycle.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have mild to severe acne (pimples, blackheads, whiteheads)
- You want to fade dark spots, acne scars, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- You need an affordable, effective tretinoin-based treatment
- You are looking for a proven exfoliant with clinical-grade ingredients
- You have oily or combination skin prone to breakouts
- You can commit to a consistent nighttime routine with sunscreen
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- You have very dry, eczema-prone, or rosacea skin
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen application
- You have never used retinoids and want a gentler introduction
- You are under 12 years old
- You have open wounds, sunburned, or severely irritated skin
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. The alcohol base controls excess oil, tretinoin reduces sebum production, and the lightweight formula won't add shine.
High alcohol content and tretinoin will intensify dryness. Can cause painful peeling and cracking. Use a rich moisturizer or consider gentler alternatives.
Works well on oily T-zone areas. Focus application on breakout-prone zones and moisturize dry patches generously.
Start with Variant #1 (mildest). Use every other night initially. Expect more pronounced redness and stinging. Patch test is essential.
This is the primary target audience. Tretinoin is the gold standard for acne treatment. Non-comedogenic formula with 0/5 pore-clogging rating.
๐ Results Timeline
Initial Reaction Phase
Mild stinging and tingling upon application. Skin may begin to feel tight and slightly dry. This is a normal response to the active ingredients beginning to work.
90% experience stingingPeeling & Purging Stage
Visible skin peeling, redness, and possible initial breakout (purging). Skin is shedding dead cells and pushing out impurities. This is the most challenging phase โ trust the process.
80% experience visible peelingVisible Improvement Begins
Peeling subsides and new, fresher skin emerges underneath. Active pimples begin drying out. Dark spots start to noticeably lighten. Skin develops a subtle glow.
70% notice brighter skinSignificant Results
Acne significantly reduced or cleared. Dark spots and acne scars visibly faded. Skin tone appears more even and complexion brighter. Smoother skin texture overall.
85% report clearer skin by day 60Rest Period & Maintenance
Stop the exfoliant solution and rest the skin for 30 days. Maintain results with gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and daily sunscreen. Repeat the cycle if needed.
Mandatory 30-day rest periodโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Extremely affordable โ one of the cheapest tretinoin products available worldwide
- Visible results in as little as 1โ2 weeks for acne and dark spots
- Contains proven prescription-strength active ingredients (tretinoin + hydroquinone)
- Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, minimal ingredient list
- Three strength variants allow customized treatment intensity
- FDA-approved (Philippines BFAD) and dermatologist-tested
- Iconic product with 20+ years of real-world results from millions of users
โ Criticized
- Intense peeling, redness, and stinging during the first 1โ2 weeks
- Very drying due to high alcohol content โ moisturizer is mandatory
- Cannot be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Requires strict sun protection; can cause hyperpigmentation if exposed to sun
- Hydroquinone limited to 60-day cycles; long-term misuse risks ochronosis
- Small 60mL bottle may not last the full 60-day treatment cycle
- Not suitable for dry or very sensitive skin types
- Hydroquinone is banned or restricted in many countries (EU, US OTC)
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
OTC retinoid that treats acne without hydroquinone. Gentler than tretinoin with less peeling. Does not lighten dark spots directly but improves overall skin texture through cell turnover.
Much gentler retinol (not tretinoin) with moisturizing squalane base. Requires skin conversion to retinoic acid, so slower results. No hydroquinone for dark spots. Better for retinoid beginners.
Gentle hydroquinone derivative for dark spots without the harsh side effects. No retinoid component for acne. Much safer for pregnancy and sensitive skin but significantly slower brightening results.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution
~$3โ$10Tri-Luma Cream
$90โ$150Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%)
$13.99Eskinol Classic Facial Cleanser
~$3โ$6๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store at room temperature not exceeding 30ยฐC (86ยฐF). Keep away from direct sunlight and heat. Tretinoin degrades with light exposure.
Green opaque plastic bottle with screw cap โ protects contents from light degradation
Yes โ 60mL is under the 100mL carry-on liquid limit for air travel
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No. Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution is NOT safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains Tretinoin (a retinoid) and Hydroquinone โ both are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development. The product label explicitly states that pregnant and lactating women should not use this product. If you need acne treatment during pregnancy, consult your dermatologist about pregnancy-safe alternatives such as azelaic acid.
Yes. The original Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution formulation (tretinoin, hydroquinone, alcohol) is fungal acne safe. It does not contain ferments, fatty acids (C11โC24), esters, polysorbates, or other ingredients known to feed malassezia yeast. The minimal 3-ingredient formula makes it one of the safest exfoliant options for those dealing with fungal acne alongside regular acne.
No โ do not combine Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution with other active ingredients during the treatment cycle. The product already contains tretinoin (the strongest retinoid) plus hydroquinone. Layering additional retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), or BHAs (salicylic acid) on top significantly increases the risk of irritation, chemical burns, and skin barrier damage. The manufacturer recommends avoiding other toners and whitening products while using the exfoliant solution.
Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution works best for oily and acne-prone skin types. The alcohol-based formula helps control excess oil while tretinoin reduces sebum production. It also works well for combination skin when focused on oily, breakout-prone areas. It is less suitable for dry or very sensitive skin due to the high alcohol content and potent active ingredients. Those with sensitive skin should start with Variant #1 and use every other night.
Most users begin seeing visible improvement within 2โ4 weeks. The first 1โ2 weeks typically involve peeling, redness, and possible purging as dead skin cells shed and impurities surface. After the peeling subsides, skin appears brighter and smoother. By the end of the 60-day treatment cycle, acne should be significantly reduced and dark spots noticeably faded. Some users report seeing initial changes in skin tone and glow as early as 2โ3 days.
Use Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution only at night, as step 2 in a simple routine: (1) Cleanse with a gentle facial wash, (2) Apply 2โ4 drops of the Exfoliant Solution with a cotton pad, (3) Let it dry, (4) Apply moisturizer. In the morning, use only cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen (SPF 30+). Do not use other toners, serums, or active treatments during the 60-day cycle.
No. Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The original formulation contains only tretinoin, hydroquinone, and alcohol โ none of which are comedogenic. In fact, tretinoin actively unclogs pores by normalizing keratinization and reducing sebum production. The product is verified as non-comedogenic and will not cause additional breakouts (though initial purging in weeks 1โ2 is normal as existing clogs are pushed out).
Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. However, since the treatment cycle is only 60 days and you use just 2โ4 drops per night, the 60mL bottle should last through at least one full treatment cycle. Store below 30ยฐC away from direct sunlight to maintain potency, as tretinoin can degrade when exposed to heat and light.
Verdict: Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solution is an exceptionally affordable, clinically potent acne and dark spot treatment that delivers real results through proven prescription-strength ingredients. It is the go-to solution for millions of users in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, and for good reason โ tretinoin and hydroquinone are gold-standard actives backed by decades of dermatological research. However, the high alcohol content, intense initial peeling phase, and strict usage limitations (nighttime only, 60-day max, mandatory sunscreen) mean this product demands commitment and careful use. It is not for beginners, those with dry/sensitive skin, or anyone unable to adhere to sun protection. When used correctly, it can produce dramatic improvements in acne, hyperpigmentation, and overall skin clarity at a price point that is virtually unmatched in the market.
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 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroquinone
Stabilising
|
Dark Spots
|