Glycolic Acid 10% Serum
Glycolic Acid 10% Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A potent 10% glycolic acid night peeling serum enriched with niacinamide and birch water to exfoliate, brighten, and refine acne-prone skin. Smooths texture, fades dark spots, and unclogs pores while soothing inflammation for a clearer, radiant complexion.
10% Glycolic Acid Peel
Powerful AHA exfoliation that dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and stimulates collagen production for smoother, renewed skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY10% Glycolic Acid Peel
Powerful AHA exfoliation that dissolves dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and stimulates collagen production for smoother, renewed skin.
Brightening Niacinamide
Fades post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation, regulates sebum production, and strengthens the skin barrier for a more even tone.
Soothing Birch Water
Betula Alba Juice calms inflammation, provides antioxidant protection, and helps accelerate the healing of active breakouts.
Hydrating Aloe & Glycerin
Aloe vera juice and glycerin work together to soothe irritation, attract moisture to the skin, and prevent acid-related dryness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGlycolic acid at 10% is generally considered too strong during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Most dermatologists recommend avoiding AHAs above 5% concentration. Consult your doctor before use.
Contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates. The formula is safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. No pore-clogging oils or waxes in the formula. Safe for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin.
Glycolic acid increases photosensitivity. You must use SPF 50 sunscreen daily while using this product and avoid prolonged UV exposure.
The brand specifically warns against using this serum with retinol, other AHA/BHA acids, or vitamin C in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation.
10% glycolic acid is a strong concentration. Mild tingling is normal upon first application, but persistent burning or redness may indicate sensitivity. Patch test before full use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 10%Proven
The smallest AHA molecule, glycolic acid penetrates deeply to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerate cell turnover, and stimulate collagen synthesis. At 10%, it provides significant exfoliation power for acne, texture, and discoloration.
- Exfoliation: Dissolves the "glue" holding dead skin cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin underneath.
- Anti-aging: Clinical studies confirm glycolic acid stimulates collagen production and reduces fine lines with consistent use.
- Pore-clearing: Penetrates into pores to loosen sebum buildup and prevent new clogged pores from forming.
- Brightening: Concentrations of 5–20% are clinically effective for reducing hyperpigmentation and evening skin tone.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–5%Proven
A well-researched multitasking vitamin that reduces blemishes, evens skin tone, and strengthens the skin barrier. Works synergistically with glycolic acid to calm inflammation and fade post-acne marks.
- Sebum control: At 2%+ concentration, niacinamide effectively reduces excess oil production and balances sebum levels.
- Barrier repair: Boosts ceramide production and supports the skin's natural protective barrier, reducing moisture loss.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer, making it effective for fading dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuicePromising
Aloe vera juice high on the ingredient list provides anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and wound-healing benefits. Helps counteract the potential dryness and irritation caused by the glycolic acid.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains salicylates, polysaccharides, and C-glucosyl chromone that reduce redness and irritation.
- Wound healing: Accelerates skin repair and regeneration, making it ideal alongside chemical exfoliants.
Betula Alba Juice (Birch Water)Promising
Birch water is rich in minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. It soothes irritated skin, provides mild hydration, and supports the skin's natural recovery process after exfoliation.
- Antioxidant: Contains vitamins and minerals that protect cells from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
- Soothing: Helps calm inflammation from active acne and post-peel redness.
Glycerin HumectantProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration. Studies show glycerin is even more effective than hyaluronic acid at keeping skin hydrated.
- Hydration: Pulls moisture from the environment into the upper layers of skin, reducing dryness from acid exfoliation.
- Barrier support: Keeps skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state, reinforcing the skin's natural barrier function.
19 ingredients
Aqua, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Betula Alba Juice, Sodium Citrate, Cellulose Gum, Inulin, Xanthan Gum, Cellulose, Fructose, Glucose, Propanediol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in your PM routine only, 1–3 times per week. Always apply SPF 50 the following morning. Do not layer with retinol, vitamin C, or other AHA/BHA products in the same routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Make sure skin is completely clean and free of makeup or other products.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense 3–4 drops onto fingertips and gently press onto face, neck, and décolleté. Avoid the eye area and any broken or irritated skin.
Allow Absorption
Let the serum absorb fully for 1–2 minutes. Mild tingling is normal; if burning persists, rinse off immediately with water.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your regular nighttime moisturizer or sleeping mask to lock in hydration and buffer any potential dryness from the acid.
SPF the Next Morning
Apply SPF 50 sunscreen the following day. Glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity, so consistent sun protection is essential.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with clogged pores, blackheads, or closed comedones
- You want to fade post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
- You need a chemical exfoliant to smooth rough or uneven texture
- You prefer a simple, clean formula without unnecessary additives
- You want an affordable glycolic acid treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin (try PHA or mandelic acid instead)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
- You are already using retinol or other strong actives nightly
- You have a compromised or damaged skin barrier
- You cannot commit to daily SPF 50 use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Controls excess sebum, unclogs pores, and provides deep exfoliation without adding any oiliness. Lightweight gel absorbs instantly.
Works well across oily and dry zones. Targets T-zone congestion while niacinamide and aloe help balance drier areas.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. Targets breakouts at every stage while fading post-acne marks and preventing new clogs.
Great for maintaining clear, bright skin. Use 1–2 times weekly for ongoing texture refinement and glow without over-exfoliation.
10% glycolic acid may be drying. If used, limit to once weekly and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Consider a lower-percentage AHA instead.
10% is too strong for most sensitive skin types. Reviewers with sensitive skin report stinging and redness. Try mandelic acid or PHA instead.
Results timeline
MONTHS 2–3Initial Exfoliation & Possible Purging
Mild tingling upon application. Skin feels smoother after first use. Some users experience a brief purging phase where existing congestion comes to the surface as the acid accelerates cell turnover.
70% noticed smoother textureVisible Clarity & Reduced Breakouts
Active breakouts begin to heal faster. Blackheads and closed comedones start clearing. Pores appear visibly smaller and skin looks fresher and less congested.
65% saw fewer breakoutsBrighter Skin & Fading Dark Spots
Post-acne hyperpigmentation starts to fade. Skin tone appears more even and radiant. Fine lines look less pronounced as glycolic acid stimulates deeper cell renewal.
80% noticed brighter complexionRefined Texture & Long-Term Improvement
Significant improvement in overall skin texture and clarity. Scarring continues to fade. Pores are consistently smaller and less prone to congestion. Skin feels healthier and more resilient.
85% reported overall skin improvementRatings by platform
155+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio for a 10% glycolic acid serum
- Visibly smooths texture and reduces breakouts within 2–3 weeks
- Clean, short ingredient list with no unnecessary fillers
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formula
- Niacinamide and aloe help balance the exfoliation, reducing irritation
- Absorbs quickly without a sticky or greasy residue
- Fungal acne safe — no ferments or problematic fatty esters
Criticized
- Too strong for sensitive or reactive skin types
- Small 30ml bottle runs out fast with regular use
- Can cause initial purging during the first 1–2 weeks
- Tingling/stinging sensation may be uncomfortable for beginners
- Cannot be combined with retinol or other acids
- Limited availability outside of European online retailers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A toner format (not serum) with 7% glycolic acid instead of 10%. Much larger 240ml bottle offers better value per ml. Slightly gentler concentration but lacks niacinamide and birch water. Contains Tasmanian Pepperberry to reduce irritation.
Same 10% glycolic acid concentration in a toner format. Larger 200ml bottle. Includes niacinamide and witch hazel but contains more ingredients overall. Less concentrated leave-on approach compared to Nacomi's serum formula.
Uses 7% glycolic acid in a 100ml bottle. K-beauty formulation with apple water and niacinamide. Gentler approach with slightly lower acid percentage. Better suited for beginners or those who prefer a milder exfoliation routine.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly sealed between uses. No refrigeration required.
Dark glass dropper bottle that helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation.
Yes, 30 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on limit for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. Glycolic acid at 10% concentration is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. While topical glycolic acid has limited systemic absorption, most dermatologists suggest avoiding AHA concentrations above 5% as a precaution. The brand itself warns against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any acid exfoliant while pregnant or nursing.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acids, fatty esters, or polysorbates that can feed malassezia yeast. All 19 ingredients pass fungal acne safety checks. In fact, the glycolic acid can actually help by exfoliating the surface layer where fungal acne thrives, while niacinamide helps reduce inflammation associated with fungal breakouts.
No, the brand explicitly warns against using this serum with retinol, vitamin C, or other AHA/BHA acids in the same routine. Combining 10% glycolic acid with these actives can cause severe irritation, compromised skin barrier, and increased sensitivity. If you want to use multiple actives, alternate them on different nights (e.g., glycolic acid 2–3 nights per week, retinol on other nights) and ensure you have built tolerance to each product individually first.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its potent 10% glycolic acid formula excels at controlling sebum, unclogging pores, and clearing breakouts. It also works well for normal skin looking to maintain clarity and brightness. It is not recommended for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, and dry skin types should use it sparingly with a rich moisturizer.
Most users report smoother skin texture within the first week of use. Visible reduction in breakouts and clogged pores typically appears after 2–3 weeks. Significant improvements in hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and overall skin tone generally take 4–6 weeks of consistent use. Full results including scar fading and long-term clarity are usually seen after 2–3 months. Some users experience a brief purging phase during the first 1–2 weeks, which is normal.
Apply this serum in your PM routine only, after cleansing and toning. It goes on clean, dry skin as your active treatment step (step 3). Follow with a moisturizer to seal in hydration. Do not use in the morning, as glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity. Always apply SPF 50 sunscreen the next day. Use 1–3 times per week, gradually increasing frequency as your skin builds tolerance.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The brand classifies it as non-comedogenic, and ingredient analysis confirms no pore-clogging components. The formula contains no oils, waxes, silicones, or heavy emollients. In fact, glycolic acid actively helps unclog pores by dissolving sebum plugs and dead skin buildup, making this product beneficial for congestion-prone skin.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 6 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight with the cap tightly closed. The dark glass bottle helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation. At 30ml, using the serum 2–3 times per week (3–4 drops per use), the bottle typically lasts about 2–3 months, well within the PAO window.
Verdict: Nacomi Glycolic Acid 10% Serum is an excellent budget-friendly chemical exfoliant that punches well above its price point. The clean, 19-ingredient formula delivers a potent 10% glycolic acid concentration boosted by niacinamide and soothing birch water — an effective trio for acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture. Its fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic profile makes it a standout for oily and breakout-prone skin. The main drawbacks are the small 30ml size and its unsuitability for sensitive skin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin and want an affordable, no-nonsense AHA treatment, this is one of the best values in its category.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|