Glycolic B5 Serum Exfoliating Concentrate
Glycolic B5 Serum Exfoliating Concentrate
Product Description
A powerful dermatologist-tested serum combining 10% pure glycolic acid with tranexamic acid, kojic acid, lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA), and vitamin B5 to visibly reduce dark spots, discolorations, and uneven skin tone while revealing brighter, smoother, more radiant skin.
โจ Texture & Feel
Multi-Action Brightening
Combines 4 brightening actives (glycolic, tranexamic, kojic, LHA) for comprehensive dark spot correction from multiple angles.
Clinically Proven Results
8-week clinical study showed significant reduction in dark spots and discolorations with brighter skin in just 2 weeks.
Sensitive Skin Formulated
Enriched with soothing Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water to minimize irritation.
Gold Standard Exfoliation
10% glycolic acid is the optimal concentration for effective exfoliation while remaining gentle enough for regular use.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Glycolic acid at 10% or less is approved by ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) for topical use during pregnancy. Minimal systemic absorption.
Unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk. Avoid applying to areas that may contact infant's skin.
Contains C12-13 Alkyl Lactate (an ester) which may potentially feed Malassezia yeast. Those with active fungal acne should patch test first.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Must use SPF 30+ during the day. Apply this serum only in PM routine.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
โ๏ธ Glycolic Acid 10% Gold Standard
The smallest AHA molecule, allowing deepest penetration. Exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and fades hyperpigmentation by accelerating melanin dispersion.
- Mechanism: Breaks bonds between dead skin cells for gentle exfoliation
- Benefits: Reduces dark spots, smooths texture, improves radiance
- Research: Proven to stimulate collagen synthesis with long-term use
๐ซ Tranexamic Acid (TXA) Proven
A powerful brightening amino acid that inhibits melanin production by blocking the plasminogen pathway. Dermatologist-recommended for stubborn hyperpigmentation including melasma.
- Mechanism: Inhibits UV-induced melanin synthesis
- Benefits: Fades stubborn discoloration, effective on melasma
- Research: Clinical studies show 2-5% concentration is effective topically
๐ Kojic Acid Natural
A naturally-derived brightening agent from mushrooms that inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. Works synergistically with other brightening agents.
- Source: Derived from fungi during fermentation process
- Mechanism: Blocks tyrosinase enzyme activity
- Benefits: Visibly reduces skin discolorations and age spots
๐งช Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA) Patented
A lipophilic derivative of salicylic acid with enhanced skin penetration. Provides gentle exfoliation and targets uneven skin tone while being gentler than traditional BHA.
- Mechanism: Fat-soluble exfoliant that penetrates pores
- Benefits: Refines texture, improves brightness, controls oil
- Advantage: More gentle than salicylic acid with similar benefits
๐ง Panthenol (Vitamin B5) Soothing
A pro-vitamin that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. Provides deep hydration, strengthens skin barrier, and has anti-inflammatory properties to counterbalance potential acid irritation.
- Benefits: Hydrates, soothes, promotes wound healing
- Function: Balances exfoliating actives to prevent over-irritation
- Safety: Non-irritating, suitable for all skin types
14 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Alcohol Denat., Glycolic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Potassium Hydroxide, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Tranexamic Acid, Kojic Acid, C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Panthenol, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Disodium EDTA
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use in PM routine only. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying next products. Always pair with SPF during daytime.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser and pat face completely dry before application.
Apply 3-4 Drops
Fill the dropper and dispense 3-4 drops onto fingertips. Apply evenly across face and neck, avoiding eye area and lips.
Let Absorb
Wait 1-2 minutes for complete absorption before layering additional products. A slight tingling sensation is normal.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in hydration and soothe skin. Use alone or under night cream.
Apply SPF Next Morning
Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day. AHAs increase sun sensitivity for up to 7 days after use.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have dark spots, sun spots, or post-acne marks
- You want to improve uneven skin tone
- You're looking for anti-aging exfoliation benefits
- You have dull, lackluster skin needing radiance
- You want a dermatologist-recommended formula
- You prefer French pharmacy skincare
- You have combination to oily skin
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or compromised skin barrier
- You're already using prescription retinoids nightly
- You have active eczema, rosacea, or dermatitis
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use
- You have active fungal acne (contains esters)
- You're sensitive to alcohol denat. in formulas
- You prefer fragrance-free products (has light scent)
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Oil-free, lightweight formula absorbs quickly. Glycolic acid helps control excess sebum and refine pores.
Balances well across different face zones. Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores or add excess oil.
Ideal for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Provides exfoliation and brightening without disruption.
Contains alcohol denat. which may feel drying. Follow with rich moisturizer. Start 2x weekly.
Formulated for sensitive skin with soothing Vitamin B5. Patch test first and introduce gradually.
Non-comedogenic with LHA for pore refinement. Note: contains one ester that may affect fungal acne.
๐ Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Skin may feel slightly sensitized as it adjusts to glycolic acid. Mild tingling during application is normal. Begin with 2-3x weekly use.
Skin feels smoother to touchVisible Brightness
Clinical studies show skin looks brighter and more radiant after 2 weeks of consistent use. Skin texture begins to improve.
85% noticed brighter skinDark Spot Reduction
Significant reduction in the appearance of dark spots and discolorations. More even skin tone becomes apparent.
78% saw reduced dark spotsOptimal Results
Full clinical study results achieved. Continued improvement in fine lines, texture, and overall radiance with ongoing use.
Collagen stimulation benefitsโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Clinically proven 10% glycolic acid concentration
- Multi-acid approach targets dark spots from multiple angles
- Dermatologist-tested and recommended
- Suitable for sensitive skin with soothing Vitamin B5
- Visible results in as little as 2 weeks
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula
- Works on multiple skin tones
- Paraben and fragrance-free
โ Criticized
- Contains alcohol denat. which some find drying
- Small 30ml bottle for the price point
- Can feel slightly sticky before absorbing
- Requires strict SPF compliance
- May cause initial irritation for beginners
- Not fungal acne safe (contains ester)
- Results require patience (4-8 weeks)
- Evening use only limits flexibility
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Lower glycolic concentration (7% vs 10%) but much larger size (240ml). Lacks tranexamic and kojic acids. More economical for daily exfoliation.
Contains glycolic acid with hydrating ingredients. Simpler formula without additional brightening acids but excellent value and gentle formulation.
K-beauty AHA with apple water. 7% glycolic acid with gentler approach. Good for sensitive skin but lacks the multi-acid brightening complex.
Similar concentration glycolic acid in gel format. Contains chamomile and green tea. No tranexamic/kojic acids but excellent for texture improvement.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5
$39.99The Ordinary Glycolic 7%
$13.90Paula's Choice 8% AHA Gel
$35.00SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10
$100.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed. No refrigeration needed.
Glass dropper bottle with protective outer box. Dropper allows precise application of 3-4 drops.
Yes, 30ml is under TSA 100ml liquid limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully to prevent breakage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, glycolic acid at 10% concentration is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding according to ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists). The topical application results in minimal systemic absorption. However, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Avoid applying to areas that may contact your baby's skin while breastfeeding.
This product is NOT fully fungal acne safe. It contains C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, which is an ester that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. While glycolic acid itself is beneficial for fungal acne, those with active fungal acne should either patch test carefully or consider alternatives like The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% or Paula's Choice 2% BHA which have safer ingredient profiles for fungal acne.
Use caution when combining with other actives. Avoid using other AHAs/BHAs in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. If using retinol, apply on alternate nights or use retinol in PM and glycolic in AM (with SPF). Vitamin C can be used in the morning while Glycolic B5 is used at night. Never layer multiple exfoliants simultaneously - this can damage your skin barrier.
Glycolic B5 is best suited for normal, combination, and oily skin types concerned with dark spots, uneven tone, and dullness. The oil-free, non-comedogenic formula works well for oily and acne-prone skin. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but should start slowly (2x weekly) and follow with a rich moisturizer. Not recommended for those with active eczema, rosacea, or severely compromised skin barrier.
Based on clinical studies: Brighter, more radiant skin is visible after 2 weeks of consistent use. Significant reduction in dark spots and discolorations occurs around week 4. Optimal results including texture improvement and anti-aging benefits are achieved at 8 weeks with continued use. Results vary by individual - be patient and consistent with daily SPF use.
Apply Glycolic B5 in your evening routine only: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner (optional), 3) Glycolic B5 Serum, 4) Additional serums, 5) Moisturizer. Wait 1-2 minutes after applying for full absorption before layering other products. In the morning, always apply SPF 30+. Do not use in your AM routine as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
No, Glycolic B5 is non-comedogenic (comedogenic rating: 0/5) and oil-free. It is specifically formulated not to clog pores. In fact, glycolic acid helps to exfoliate and unclog pores, while LHA (lipo-hydroxy acid) provides additional pore-refining benefits. The formula is dermatologist-tested and allergy-tested for safety on acne-prone skin.
Glycolic B5 has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The glass dropper bottle helps protect the formula from oxidation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. At the recommended usage of 3-4 drops daily, a 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months, well within the 12-month shelf life.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 is an excellent dermatologist-recommended choice for tackling dark spots and hyperpigmentation. The multi-acid formula combining glycolic acid, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and LHA delivers comprehensive brightening from multiple angles. Clinically proven results in as little as 2 weeks, with the addition of Vitamin B5 making it suitable for sensitive skin. While the price-per-ml is higher than budget alternatives and it's not suitable for those with fungal acne, the quality French pharmacy formulation and proven efficacy justify the investment for those serious about fading dark spots and achieving radiant, even-toned skin.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|