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Liquid ExfoliKate® Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment

Liquid ExfoliKate® Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

An award-winning nightly leave-on exfoliating treatment powered by a 10% triple AHA blend (glycolic, lactic, and malic acids) plus fruit enzymes from pumpkin, papaya, and pineapple. This liquid resurfacing toner gently dissolves dead skin cell buildup while peptides, honey, and tea extracts soothe and calm — revealing smoother texture, minimized pores, and a radiant glow by morning.

10% AHA Blend Allure Best of Beauty Winner Cruelty-Free (PETA) Clinically Tested Safe for Sensitive Skin Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Fungal Acne Safe
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Type
Leave-On Toner
Size
120ml / 4 fl oz
Price
$58.00
Key Active
10% AHAs
Use Time
PM (Nightly)
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Triple Acid Exfoliation

10% blend of glycolic, lactic, and malic acids dissolves dead skin cells and smooths surface texture for a more even, radiant complexion.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery Liquid
Scent
Light Clinical / Herbal
Absorption
Under 30 seconds
Finish
Natural / Smooth

Triple Acid Exfoliation

10% blend of glycolic, lactic, and malic acids dissolves dead skin cells and smooths surface texture for a more even, radiant complexion.

Fruit Enzyme Power

Pumpkin, papaya (papain), and pineapple (bromelain) enzymes enhance exfoliation naturally to brighten dull skin and boost cell turnover.

Soothing Complex

Tetrapeptide-14, honey extract, green tea, and rooibos tea help calm and hydrate skin, minimizing any irritation from the acid blend.

Clinically Proven Results

100% of participants showed improvement in pore size after just 1 use in an independent clinical study. Safe for all skin types including sensitive.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains 10% AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid). Low-concentration AHAs are generally considered low-risk, but this is a leave-on treatment at moderate concentration. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

This formula does not contain fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Listed as fungal acne safe by Simple Skincare Science. The ferment filtrates present are from bacterial fermentation, not yeast-based.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Water-based liquid formula with no heavy oils, silicones, or pore-clogging emollients. Very unlikely to clog pores or trigger breakouts.

Sun Sensitivity Warning

AHAs increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is required when using this product. Limit sun exposure for one week after use.

Sensitive Skin Tested

Clinically tested and proven safe for sensitive skin. Soothing peptides, honey, and tea extracts help offset potential irritation from acids.

Contains Fragrance Components

Includes naturally-derived citronellol, geraniol, and linalool from the geranium water base. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Glycolic Acid ~2-3%Proven

The smallest AHA molecule, derived from sugarcane. Penetrates skin effectively to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, stimulate collagen synthesis, and improve skin texture and tone over time.

  • Mechanism: Disrupts corneocyte cohesion in the stratum corneum, accelerating cell turnover and revealing fresh skin beneath.
  • Clinical data: Extensive research confirms efficacy for photoaging, hyperpigmentation, and texture improvement at concentrations of 2%+ with pH below 4.
  • Collagen boost: Long-term use stimulates collagen production in the dermis, helping reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen the following morning. May cause mild tingling on first use.

Lactic Acid ~3.5-5.3%Proven

A gentle yet effective AHA derived from milk. Exfoliates while simultaneously acting as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin. Generally better tolerated than glycolic acid for sensitive skin types.

  • Dual action: Exfoliates dead cells while attracting and retaining moisture in the upper layers of the skin.
  • Brightness: Shown to improve skin luminosity and reduce hyperpigmentation with regular use.
  • Barrier support: Stimulates ceramide production, helping to strengthen the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Malic Acid Part of 10% blendProven

An AHA derived from apples that provides gentle exfoliation with antioxidant properties. Works synergistically with glycolic and lactic acids to enhance overall exfoliating efficacy while being gentler than glycolic alone.

  • Synergy: Enhances the overall efficacy of the triple acid blend while keeping individual acid concentrations lower for reduced irritation.
  • Antioxidant: Provides additional free radical protection not typical of other AHAs.

Phytic Acid Listed 6thPromising

A natural acid derived from grains and seeds. Acts as a chelating agent and mild exfoliant, helping to brighten skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. Also works as an antioxidant by binding to iron, which can generate free radicals.

  • Brightening: Inhibits melanin production through tyrosinase inhibition, helping even out skin tone.
  • Gentle exfoliation: Provides additional exfoliation support without the irritation potential of stronger AHAs.

Tetrapeptide-14 ~0.3-0.75%Promising

A short-chain peptide that helps soothe and calm the skin. Works to offset any irritation caused by the acid blend, making this treatment more tolerable for daily use even on sensitive skin.

  • Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce redness and irritation, acting as a buffer against the exfoliating acids.
  • Collagen support: May stimulate collagen production, though evidence is still emerging for this specific peptide.
Inclusion of soothing peptides is a smart formulation choice that sets this product apart from many AHA-only exfoliants.

Fruit Enzyme Complex (Papain, Bromelain, Pumpkin Ferment)Proven

A trio of natural proteolytic enzymes from papaya (papain), pineapple (bromelain), and pumpkin (Lactobacillus ferment filtrate). These enzymes break down the keratin protein in dead skin cells, enhancing chemical exfoliation without added irritation.

  • Papain: Derived from papaya, breaks down dead protein on skin surface to promote cell renewal.
  • Bromelain: From pineapple, provides anti-inflammatory benefits alongside exfoliation.
  • Pumpkin ferment: Contains natural AHAs and enzymes that help dissolve dead skin and boost radiance.

28 ingredients

Aqua/Water/Eau, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower/Leaf/Stem Water, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycolic Acid, Propanediol, Phytic Acid, Glycerin, Papain, Boswellia Serrata Extract, Mel Extract/Honey Extract/Extrait de Miel, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aspalathus Linearis Extract, Bromelain, Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract, Tetrapeptide-14, Lactobacillus/Pumpkin Fruit Ferment Filtrate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Maltodextrin, Citronellol, Geraniol, Linalool.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Salicylic Acid, Silicones, Artificial Dyes, Formaldehyde, Talc
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Liquid ExfoliKate
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use nightly after cleansing, in place of your toner step. Follow with your serum and moisturizer. Always apply SPF 30+ the next morning. Skip this product on nights you use retinol or other strong actives.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Use on clean, dry skin in the evening.

2

Saturate a Cotton Round

Dispense 2-3 pumps onto a cotton pad until saturated. Alternatively, pour a small amount directly onto the pad.

3

Pat Onto Skin

Gently pat (do not rub) onto face, décolleté, and tops of hands. Avoid the eye area. A slight tingling sensation is normal.

4

Let It Absorb

Allow the liquid to absorb fully — no need to rinse. Wait about 30 seconds before applying your next product.

5

Follow with Serum & Moisturizer

Apply your favorite serum and moisturizer on top. In the morning, always follow up with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want smoother skin texture and minimized pores
  • Your skin looks dull and needs a radiance boost
  • You want a gentle daily chemical exfoliant
  • You prefer leave-on treatments over scrubs or peels
  • You have uneven skin tone or post-acne marks
  • You want to improve absorption of your other products
  • You have fungal acne and need a safe exfoliant

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
  • You already use multiple strong actives (retinol + BHA nightly)
  • You have active eczema, rosacea flares, or broken skin
  • You are looking for a budget-friendly option under $15
  • You prefer fragrance-free products (contains natural fragrance components)
  • You refuse to wear daily sunscreen (AHAs require SPF)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Watery, oil-free formula absorbs instantly. AHAs help clear congested pores and control excess sebum buildup. No added shine or greasiness.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across oily and dry zones. Lactic acid provides hydration while glycolic handles congestion. Ideal for mixed skin concerns.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Perfect maintenance exfoliant for normal skin. Boosts radiance and keeps texture smooth without over-exfoliating or disrupting skin balance.

Dry Skin
Good

Lactic acid adds hydration, but pair with a rich moisturizer on top. Some dry skin types may only tolerate every other night. Start slowly.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Clinically tested safe for sensitive skin. Peptides and honey soothe. Start with 2-3 times per week and build up. Patch test recommended.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, oil-free. AHAs help unclog pores and prevent future breakouts. Also fades post-acne marks over time.

Mature Skin
Excellent

Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production long-term. Smooths fine lines, evens skin tone, and improves overall skin luminosity. Pro tip: apply to hands too.

08

Results timeline

6-8 WEEKS
After 1st Use

Immediate Smoothness & Pore Refinement

Skin feels noticeably smoother to the touch. Surface texture is refined and pores appear minimized. A subtle glow is visible the next morning.

100% showed pore improvement after 1 use (clinical study)
1 Week

Enhanced Radiance & Clarity

Dullness starts to fade as dead skin cell buildup is consistently removed. Skin looks brighter and more even-toned. Products absorb noticeably better.

100% showed pore improvement after 7 days (clinical study)
2-4 Weeks

Visible Texture & Tone Improvement

Smoother texture, more even skin tone, and reduced appearance of dark spots become clearly visible. Pores look consistently smaller and skin has a healthy glow.

Majority of users report visible improvements by week 4
6-8 Weeks

Collagen Stimulation & Anti-Aging Benefits

Glycolic acid begins to show deeper anti-aging effects. Fine lines appear softer, skin firmness improves, and overall complexion looks revitalized and more youthful.

6+ weeks needed for collagen-level changes (dermatology research)
09

Ratings by platform

3K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.4
Rating
1,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Expensive for the size. Some users feel the sticky texture needs a moisturizer on top.
Sephora
4.3
Rating
900+
Reviews
Main complaint: Can cause irritation or stinging on very sensitive skin. Some find the scent medicinal.
Ulta
4.5
Rating
600+
Reviews
Main complaint: High price point compared to drugstore AHA toners. Wish the mini size lasted longer.
Brand Website
4.7
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users with very reactive skin experienced redness. The 120ml pump can waste product.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Visible results from the very first use — smoother texture, refined pores
  • Gentle enough for nightly use, even on sensitive skin with buildup
  • Award-winning formula (Allure Best of Beauty)
  • Clinically proven with real clinical study data
  • Fungal acne safe — rare for an AHA exfoliant at this level
  • Multi-use: face, décolleté, and hands
  • Cruelty-free and paraben/sulfate free
  • Improves absorption of serums and moisturizers applied after

Criticized

  • Premium price point ($58 for 120ml / $24 for 30ml)
  • Can sting or tingle on irritated or broken skin
  • Clinical/herbal scent not appealing to everyone
  • Can feel slightly sticky if not followed by moisturizer
  • Pump packaging on large bottle may waste product
  • Contains natural fragrance components (citronellol, geraniol, linalool)
  • Requires daily sunscreen use — no exceptions
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
$8.90
Budget Pick

Single-acid formula (glycolic only) at 7%. Lacks the triple acid blend, fruit enzymes, and soothing peptides. More straightforward but also more potentially irritating without the calming complex. Excellent value for the price.

75% Match
Glow Tonic
$15.00
Budget Pick

Lower 5% glycolic acid concentration with aloe vera and ginseng for soothing. Gentler but less potent. No fruit enzymes or peptides. Higher pH (~4.1) means less free acid is active. Good starter exfoliant for AHA beginners.

70% Match
Watermelon Glow PHA +BHA Pore-Tight Toner
$34.00
Mid-Range

Uses PHA and BHA instead of AHAs — different acid types. Gentler exfoliation with added hydration from watermelon and hyaluronic acid. Better for very sensitive skin but won't match the same level of resurfacing power.

68% Match
Solution Exfoliating Skin Perfector
$24.00
Mid-Range

Combines AHA (glycolic + lactic), BHA (salicylic), and PHA (gluconolactone) — a broader acid mix but at lower total concentration. No fruit enzymes or peptides. Lighter approach to multi-acid exfoliation.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Key Actives 7% Glycolic Acid only
Size 240ml / 8 fl oz
Price per ml $0.04/ml
Extras Aloe, Ginseng, Tasmanian Pepperberry
Fungal Acne Safe No (contains polysorbate 20)
Fragrance Free Yes
Clinical Data No branded clinical study
Glow Tonic
Key Actives 5% Glycolic Acid
Size 250ml / 8.5 fl oz
Price per ml $0.12/ml
Extras Aloe Vera, Ginseng
Fungal Acne Safe No (contains butylene glycol esters)
Fragrance Free No (added fragrance + dyes)
Clinical Data No branded clinical study
Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator
Key Actives Salicylic Acid + Rice Enzymes
Size 74g / 2.6 oz
Price per ml $0.88/g
Extras Rice bran, white tea, licorice
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance Free No
Clinical Data Limited
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use. Refrigeration is not required but can enhance the soothing sensation.

Packaging

120ml: Matte glass bottle with pump dispenser. 30ml: Matte glass bottle with twist-off cap. Glass packaging helps protect the acid formula from degradation.

Travel Friendly

The 30ml mini size is TSA-approved and travel friendly (under 100ml). The full 120ml bottle exceeds carry-on limits and should be packed in checked luggage.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Use with caution. Liquid ExfoliKate contains a 10% AHA blend (glycolic, lactic, and malic acids). While low-concentration topical AHAs are generally considered low-risk during pregnancy (glycolic acid is FDA Category B at concentrations up to 10% with pH above 3.5), this is a leave-on treatment at a moderate concentration. Most dermatologists recommend keeping AHA use minimal during pregnancy. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any active skincare during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Yes. Liquid ExfoliKate is listed as fungal acne safe by Simple Skincare Science. It does not contain fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The ferment filtrates (Lactobacillus/Pumpkin and Leuconostoc/Radish) are bacterial fermentations, not yeast-based, so they do not trigger fungal acne. This makes it one of the few premium AHA exfoliants that is safe for those dealing with pityrosporum folliculitis.

Yes, but with care. Kate Somerville confirms that Liquid ExfoliKate pairs well with their Retinol Vita C Power Serum for a brighter complexion. However, avoid layering multiple strong actives in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. A good approach: use Liquid ExfoliKate on some nights and retinol on alternate nights. Vitamin C is best used in the morning when AHAs are used at night. Do not use alongside ExfoliKate Intensive (the scrub) on the same night. If you use BHA products, alternate nights rather than layering.

Liquid ExfoliKate is clinically tested safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is especially excellent for oily, combination, normal, acne-prone, and mature skin types. Those with dry or sensitive skin can also use it but may want to start with 2-3 times per week rather than nightly. It targets dullness, uneven texture, enlarged pores, fine lines, and uneven skin tone — making it versatile across many skin concerns.

Many users report visible improvements overnight — smoother texture and refined pores after just one use. Clinical studies showed 100% of participants had improved pore appearance after a single application. Within 1-2 weeks, skin radiance and clarity noticeably improve. For deeper results like collagen stimulation and fine line reduction, allow 6-8 weeks of consistent nightly use. Full anti-aging benefits build over continued long-term use.

Use it as your toner step in your PM routine. After cleansing, saturate a cotton round and pat onto face, décolleté, and hands. Let it absorb, then follow with serum, then moisturizer. Do not use it in the morning — save your AM routine for vitamin C and sunscreen. Always apply SPF 30+ the next morning since AHAs increase sun sensitivity.

No. Liquid ExfoliKate has a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. It is a water-based liquid formula that contains no heavy oils, silicones, waxes, or known pore-clogging emollients. In fact, the AHAs actively help unclog pores by dissolving dead skin cell buildup. It is also fungal acne safe, meaning it avoids ingredients that feed acne-causing organisms.

The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. With nightly use, the 120ml full-size bottle typically lasts 3-4 months, and the 30ml mini lasts about 6-8 weeks. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The matte glass bottle helps protect the acid formula from light degradation. If the liquid changes color, consistency, or smell, discontinue use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Kate Somerville Liquid ExfoliKate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment is a premium, well-formulated AHA exfoliating toner that delivers on its promises. The 10% triple acid blend combined with fruit enzymes provides effective yet gentle resurfacing, while the inclusion of soothing peptides, honey, and tea extracts sets it apart from simpler AHA products. Clinical data backs its claims, and it holds the rare distinction of being fungal acne safe. The main drawback is the price — at $58 for 120ml, it costs significantly more per ml than competitors like The Ordinary ($0.04/ml vs $0.48/ml). However, the sophisticated formulation, clinical backing, and proven results make it a worthwhile investment for those who want a premium exfoliating treatment that goes beyond basic glycolic acid toners.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 7 ingredient(s):
Lactic Acid Glycolic Acid Phytic Acid Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Citric Acid Malic Acid Tartaric Acid
brightening Brightening from 7 ingredient(s):
Lactic Acid Glycolic Acid Phytic Acid Glycerin Citric Acid Malic Acid Tartaric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Glycerin Citric Acid Malic Acid Tartaric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
36% 16% 46%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 30 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Lactic Acid
brightening Brightening
anti-aging Anti-Aging
3 B
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
4 B
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
1 Unknown
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS