Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Eye Cream
Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Eye Cream
Product Description
Acwell's Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Eye Cream is a slightly acidic (pH 5.5) brightening eye treatment built around 3% licorice root water. It pairs licorice with niacinamide, adenosine, dual peptides (Matrixyl and Argireline), caffeine, glutathione, ceramide NP and beta-glucan to target dark circles, puffiness, fine lines and dehydration around the delicate eye area โ gentle enough for daily use, yet rich enough to double as a spot treatment for the whole face.
โจ Texture & Feel
Brightens & Evens Tone
Licorice root water and glutathione help fade the look of dark circles and pigmentation around the eyes for a more awake appearance.
Firms & Smooths
Adenosine plus Matrixyl and Argireline peptides support elasticity and help soften the look of fine lines and crow's feet.
De-Puffs & Refreshes
Caffeine helps stimulate circulation and reduce the appearance of morning puffiness and tired, fatigued eyes.
Strengthens the Barrier
Ceramide NP, cholesterol and beta-glucan reinforce the skin's moisture barrier, ideal for thin, dehydrated under-eye skin.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical UV filters. Generally considered low-risk, but confirm with your OB-GYN.
Not FA-safe โ contains fatty alcohols, olive-derived emulsifiers and ferments that can feed malassezia.
Fragrance-free and pH-balanced. Reviewers with reactive skin report it as gentle, though patch testing is wise.
Plays well with vitamin C, HA and most serums. If using retinol or AHA/BHA at night, alternate to avoid irritation.
Free from animal-derived ingredients and reef-harming UV filters, per brand and SkinSort verification.
Formulated specifically for the eye contour. Keep application off the lash line and avoid direct contact with the eyes.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ฟ Licorice Root Water & Extract ~3% Proven
The hero of the entire Licorice pH line. Licorice delivers glabridin and liquiritin, compounds prized for brightening and soothing the delicate under-eye area.
- Source: Glabridin has been shown to inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme that drives melanin production and pigmentation.
- Source: Glycyrrhizin offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, helping calm redness and irritation.
๐ Niacinamide Listed high Proven
A form of vitamin B3 appearing high on the INCI list. It strengthens the barrier, evens tone and supports the licorice in fading the look of dark circles.
- Source: Around 5% niacinamide is well-documented for improving the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone.
- Source: Converts to NAD in skin cells, supporting repair, collagen and barrier function.
๐งฌ Adenosine Active Proven
One of the most evidence-backed anti-aging ingredients in the formula. A signaling molecule that helps smooth and firm skin.
- Source: Topical adenosine has been shown to support collagen production and improve firmness and the look of wrinkles.
- Source: Korea's MFDS recognizes adenosine as a functional anti-wrinkle active.
๐ Peptides (Matrixyl + Argireline) Active Promising
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline) signal the skin to build collagen and help relax fine expression lines.
- Source: Matrixyl is studied for boosting collagen synthesis and improving the look of wrinkle depth.
- Source: Argireline is described as a "Botox-like" peptide that may soften dynamic lines, though it is far gentler.
โ Caffeine Active Promising
A classic eye-area ingredient included to tackle puffiness and the appearance of fatigue.
- Source: Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor and antioxidant, often used to reduce the look of puffiness and dark shadows.
- Source: Evidence is promising but mixed; results are typically subtle and temporary.
๐งฑ Ceramide NP + Beta-Glucan Active Proven
A barrier-repair duo. Ceramide NP replenishes the skin's natural lipids while beta-glucan deeply hydrates and soothes.
- Source: Ceramides are essential building blocks of the moisture barrier, helping reduce transepidermal water loss.
- Source: Beta-glucan penetrates skin to hydrate and has been studied as a wrinkle reducer and wound healer.
๐ Glutathione Active Promising
A master antioxidant added to reinforce the brightening story alongside licorice and green tea.
- Source: Glutathione protects cells from oxidative damage and has shown UV-B protective effects.
- Source: Topical skin-brightening evidence is inconclusive, so treat it as a supporting, not lead, active.
58 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Cetyl Alcohol, Squalane, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract, Theobroma Cacao Seed Extract, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Acmella Oleracea Extract, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Root Extract, Rubus Fruticosus Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium Fruit Extract, Malpighia Glabra Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Behenyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Cetearyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Olivate, Stearyl Alcohol, Dipropylene Glycol, Arginine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Cholesterol, Dextrin, Xanthan Gum, Adenosine, Fructooligosaccharides, Ceramide NP, Beta-Glucan, Disodium EDTA, Caffeine, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Raffinose, Folic Acid, Tocopherol, Tromethamine, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Glutathione, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after lighter serums and before heavier creams. Use morning and night; in the AM, always seal with sunscreen since the brightening actives are best protected from UV.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & tone first
Start with clean, toned skin so actives can absorb without barriers.
Dispense a small amount
Squeeze a rice-grain to pea-sized amount onto your ring finger โ a little goes a long way.
Tap, don't rub
Gently pat around the orbital bone and under-eye until fully absorbed. Avoid dragging the thin skin.
Seal & protect
Follow with moisturizer. In the morning, finish with SPF. Can also be used as a brightening spot treatment on the face.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You want to brighten pigment-based dark circles
- You have sensitive or reactive skin and need a fragrance-free option
- You prefer a hydrating, barrier-supporting eye cream
- You like multi-tasking K-beauty formulas (works as a face spot treatment too)
- You want peptides and caffeine without retinoids
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia)
- You want a lightweight, watery gel rather than a rich cream
- You dislike any herbal/natural scent
- You expect dramatic, fast wrinkle erasure
- You specifically want a retinal-based anti-aging eye product
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Rich, buttery texture with ceramides and HA delivers lasting hydration to thirsty under-eyes.
Fragrance-free, pH 5.5 and soothing licorice and centella make it gentle on reactive skin.
Balances and hydrates well; use a thin layer if your T-zone runs oily.
The rich finish may feel heavy; some users report slower absorption. Apply sparingly.
Low comedogenic risk overall, but not fungal-acne safe due to fatty alcohols and ferments.
Adenosine and peptides target firmness and fine lines; pair with retinal at night for more impact.
๐ Results Timeline
Hydration & comfort
Under-eyes feel immediately softer, plumper and more hydrated. Makeup sits smoother with less creasing.
~85% noticedReduced puffiness
Caffeine and licorice help the eye area look less puffy and more refreshed, especially in the morning.
~60% noticedBrighter, more even tone
Early brightening of pigment-based dark circles begins to show with consistent twice-daily use.
~45% noticedFirmer, smoother lines
Peptides and adenosine work in the deeper layers; fine lines look softened. Anti-aging changes take time.
~35% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Lightweight yet hydrating; absorbs without greasiness for most
- Gentle, fragrance-free and pH-balanced for sensitive eyes
- Concealer applies smoothly on top without caking
- Generous, well-rounded actives list for the price
- Ergonomic tube allows precise, hygienic dispensing
โ Criticized
- Dark-circle and wrinkle results are inconsistent
- Some find the texture thick and slow to absorb
- Natural herbal scent may bother fragrance-sensitive users
- Not suitable for fungal-acne-prone skin
- 30ml feels small versus the asking price
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Also brightens and firms but leads with retinal and ginseng instead of licorice. Lighter serum texture, and not suited for pregnancy due to the retinal.
Targets puffiness and dark circles via caffeine and EGCG at a fraction of the price. Watery serum with no licorice brightening or barrier ceramides.
Hydrating caffeine gel-cream for de-puffing on a budget. Simpler formula without peptides, glutathione or the licorice complex.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Acwell Licorice Eye Cream (This Product)
$30.00Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum
$18.00COSRX Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream
$27.00Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream
$16.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; close the cap tightly after use.
Ergonomic squeeze tube for precise, hygienic dosing
Yes โ 30ml tube is well under the 100ml carry-on limit
โ Frequently Asked Questions
It is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters โ the ingredients usually flagged for pregnancy. Its actives (niacinamide, peptides, caffeine, licorice) are widely regarded as pregnancy-friendly. That said, individual circumstances differ, so always confirm with your OB-GYN or doctor before adding any product.
No. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia, including fatty alcohols (cetyl, cetearyl and stearyl alcohol), olive-derived emulsifiers (cetearyl olivate, sorbitan olivate), glyceryl stearate and a ferment (bifida ferment lysate). If you are prone to fungal acne around the eyes, this is not an ideal choice.
Yes, with some care. It layers well with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Niacinamide and peptides are non-irritating and friendly with most actives. If you use retinol or an AHA/BHA, apply them at a different time (for example, retinol at night and this cream in the morning), or alternate nights, to avoid over-exfoliating the delicate eye area.
It shines on dry and sensitive skin thanks to its rich, hydrating, fragrance-free formula. Combination and mature skin also do well. Very oily skin may find the texture heavy, and fungal-acne-prone skin should look elsewhere. Its sweet spot is anyone wanting to brighten pigment-based dark circles while supporting the moisture barrier.
Hydration and smoother makeup application are usually noticeable from the first few days. De-puffing effects appear within 1โ2 weeks. Brightening of dark circles is gradual, often around the 4-week mark. Firming and fine-line benefits from peptides and adenosine happen in the deeper layers of skin and typically need at least 6 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
Apply it after cleansing, toning and any lightweight serums or essences, and before your moisturizer. Use it both morning and night. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen, since UV protection helps the brightening actives work and prevents new pigmentation.
Its comedogenic risk is low โ most ingredients rate 0โ2, giving an overall rating of around 2/5. A few emulsifying fatty alcohols sit slightly higher, so very breakout-prone users should apply a thin layer and patch test. For most people it is unlikely to clog pores, but it is still not fungal-acne safe.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use it within a year for best efficacy and freshness. Keep it in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight, and close the tube tightly to protect the antioxidants and peptides from oxidation.
Verdict: The Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Eye Cream is a well-rounded, gentle K-beauty eye cream that punches above its price with a genuinely loaded actives list โ 3% licorice water, niacinamide, dual peptides, adenosine, caffeine, ceramides and glutathione. It excels at hydration, comfort and gentle brightening for sensitive and dry skin, and doubles as a face spot treatment. Manage expectations on dramatic dark-circle or wrinkle reversal, skip it if you are fungal-acne prone, and you have a reliable daily eye cream that earns its spot in a brightening routine.
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 7 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 8 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclohexasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Water
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
|