Moon Walk Gentle Exfoliating Serum
Moon Walk Gentle Exfoliating Serum
Product Description
A gentle yet effective "flexfoliant" serum that combines 7% AHAs and PHAs with soothing botanicals to reveal smoother, brighter skin without irritation. Perfect for beginners and sensitive skin types looking to tackle texture, dullness, and congested pores.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Gentle Overnight Exfoliation
7% blend of lactic, glycolic, azelaic, and malic acids works while you sleep to dissolve dead skin cells without harsh stinging.
Soothing "Flexfoliant" Formula
Prickly pear and turmeric extracts counteract any potential irritation from the exfoliating acids for a comfortable experience.
Brightening Botanical Blend
Licorice root, pineapple, and pumpkin seed extracts help fade hyperpigmentation and reveal more radiant, even-toned skin.
Hydration Support
Squalane, glycerin, and gluconolactone (PHA) add moisture while exfoliating, preventing the dryness common with acid treatments.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains low-concentration AHAs (glycolic ~0.4%, lactic ~5%). Generally considered safe under 10%, but consult your doctor before use during pregnancy.
Contains fermented ingredients (Lactobacillus Ferment, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment) which may aggravate malassezia-prone skin.
Rating of 1/5. Contains non-comedogenic squalane and caprylic/capric triglyceride. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Formulated with soothing prickly pear and probiotic ingredients to minimize irritation. Start slowly with every-other-day use.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Must use SPF 30+ daily while using this product. Apply at night only.
Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and harsh alcohols. Vegan and cruelty-free certified.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π₯ Lactic Acid ~5% Proven
The star AHA of this formula. Gentler than glycolic acid due to larger molecular size, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Exfoliates, hydrates, and helps boost ceramide production.
- Function: Exfoliates surface dead skin cells by dissolving cellular bonds
- Benefit: Also acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to skin
- Research: Studies show it increases skin thickness and reduces wrinkles at 5%+ concentrations
π¬ Gluconolactone (PHA) ~1% Proven
A next-generation polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates without irritation. Has antioxidant properties and doesn't increase sun sensitivity like traditional AHAs.
- Function: Gently exfoliates while strengthening skin barrier
- Benefit: Provides moisturizing benefits alongside exfoliation
- Research: Shown to be as effective as glycolic acid with significantly less irritation
πΎ Azelaic Acid <1% Proven
A multi-tasking dicarboxylic acid with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening properties. Particularly effective for acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin.
- Function: Reduces acne bacteria and regulates skin cell turnover
- Benefit: Helps fade post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
- Research: FDA-approved for acne and rosacea treatment at prescription strengths (15-20%)
π« Squalane High Proven
A lightweight, stable emollient that mimics skin's natural sebum. Non-comedogenic and excellent for all skin types including oily and acne-prone.
- Function: Provides occlusive moisture without greasiness
- Benefit: Prevents transepidermal water loss and reinforces skin barrier
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0-1, fungal acne safe (hydrocarbon, no fatty acids)
π΅ Prickly Pear Extract Active Promising
The secret weapon in Bubble's "flexfoliant" formula. This cactus extract specifically reduces the neurosensory irritation caused by AHAs.
- Function: Counteracts the stinging/tingling sensation from acid exfoliants
- Benefit: Allows gentle exfoliation without discomfort
- Research: Studies show it reduces both immediate (AHA) and delayed (retinoid) skin reactions
πΏ Turmeric Root Extract Active Promising
A traditional Ayurvedic ingredient with potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-brightening properties.
- Function: Reduces inflammation and provides antioxidant protection
- Benefit: May help regulate sebum production and brighten skin
- Research: Curcumin (active compound) shows promise for acne and hyperpigmentation
26 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Squalane, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Gluconolactone, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Juice, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Azelaic Acid, Malic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Extract, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use at night only. Do not combine with other actives (retinol, vitamin C, other acids) in the same routine. Always use SPF during the day.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with a gentle cleanser.
Apply Moon Walk Serum
Dispense 2-3 drops onto fingertips. Gently press and spread across face, avoiding the eye area.
Wait for Absorption
Allow 30-60 seconds for the serum to fully absorb before applying your next product.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in hydration and support the skin barrier.
Start Slowly
Begin with every other night. If well-tolerated after 2 weeks, increase to nightly use. Always patch test first!
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You're new to chemical exfoliation and want a gentle start
- You have rough texture, bumpy skin, or "strawberry skin"
- You deal with dullness and uneven skin tone
- You want to minimize the appearance of pores
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to stronger acids
- You're a teen (14+) looking for your first exfoliant
- You want an affordable, effective drugstore option
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - contains ferments
- You want strong, intensive exfoliation (this is gentle)
- You're looking for significant anti-aging results
- You already use multiple actives and need to simplify
- You have severe cystic acne (see a dermatologist)
- You're allergic to any of the listed ingredients
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Helps control congestion and minimize pore appearance.
Squalane and glycerin provide hydration, but follow with a rich moisturizer. May need less frequent use.
Balances well across different face zones. Addresses oily T-zone congestion while hydrating drier areas.
Designed specifically for sensitive skin with soothing ingredients. Start slowly and patch test first.
Low comedogenic rating and azelaic acid help with breakouts. Not suitable for fungal acne due to ferments.
Provides gentle resurfacing benefits, but mature skin may need higher concentrations for visible anti-aging results.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Smoothness
Skin feels noticeably softer and smoother after first application. Some users report visible improvement in texture overnight.
70% noticed immediate softnessTexture Refinement
Rough patches and bumpy texture begin to smooth out. Skin appears more refined and pores look less congested.
80% saw texture improvementVisible Brightness
Skin tone becomes more even and radiant. Dullness fades and complexion looks healthier. Dark spots may begin to lighten.
75% reported brighter skinFull Results
Maximum benefits achieved with consistent use. Hyperpigmentation significantly reduced, pores minimized, and overall skin health improved.
85% satisfied with overall resultsβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Extremely gentle - no stinging or burning
- Visibly smoother skin after first use
- Great for sensitive skin and beginners
- Affordable drugstore price point ($17)
- Fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free
- Creamy texture absorbs well
- Reduces texture and rough patches effectively
- Contains multiple soothing ingredients
β Criticized
- Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly
- Too mild for experienced acid users
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Faint lactic acid smell bothers some
- Limited anti-aging benefits
- May not be strong enough for stubborn dark spots
- Contains fermented ingredients (controversial)
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar gentle lactic acid concentration. No soothing botanical blend but includes hyaluronic acid for hydration. Much more affordable per ml.
Uses 10% glycolic and lactic acids - stronger formula. Lacks the soothing botanical complex. Better for those wanting more intensity.
Different active (retinol instead of AHA) but similar texture goals. Contains ceramides and niacinamide. Better for anti-aging focus.
7% glycolic acid formula. K-beauty favorite with apple water. Stronger exfoliation but still beginner-friendly. Better for oily skin.
π Comparison with Competitors
Bubble Moon Walk (This Product)
$17.00Paula's Choice 8% AHA Gel
$31.00The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5%
$6.80Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow
$39.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Allows controlled dispensing and protects formula from air exposure.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit for carry-on luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Moon Walk contains AHAs (lactic acid ~5%, glycolic acid ~0.4%) which are generally considered safe during pregnancy when used topically at concentrations under 10%. However, we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as individual circumstances vary. The product is fragrance-free and does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.
No, Moon Walk is NOT recommended for fungal acne-prone skin. It contains Lactobacillus Ferment and Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, which are fermented ingredients that may aggravate malassezia. While it does contain fungal-safe ingredients like squalane and caprylic/capric triglyceride, the ferments make this unsuitable for those with confirmed fungal acne.
Bubble recommends NOT combining Moon Walk with other serums or active ingredients in the same routine to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. If you use retinol or vitamin C, apply them on alternate nights. Never layer multiple exfoliating acids together. Wait at least 30 minutes between applying different actives if you must use them the same night.
Moon Walk is designed for ALL skin types and is particularly excellent for: oily/combination skin (lightweight, non-greasy), sensitive skin (soothing botanicals minimize irritation), beginners to chemical exfoliation (gentle 7% concentration), and teens 14+ starting their first exfoliation routine. It's less ideal for those wanting intensive anti-aging results or with fungal acne.
Many users notice smoother, softer skin after just one night's use. More significant improvements in texture and brightness typically appear within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. For hyperpigmentation and dark spots, expect 6-8 weeks or longer. Results depend on your skin type, concerns, and consistency of use.
Apply Moon Walk at NIGHT ONLY, after cleansing and toning (if you use toner), but before heavier serums and moisturizer. The order is: Cleanser β Toner β Moon Walk β Treatment Serums β Moisturizer. Do not use other exfoliants in the same routine. Always follow with SPF in the morning as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
Moon Walk has a LOW comedogenic rating of 1/5, making it unlikely to clog pores for most people. It contains non-comedogenic ingredients like squalane (0-1) and caprylic/capric triglyceride (0-1). The AHAs actually help unclog pores by dissolving dead skin cells. However, everyone's skin is different, so patch test first if you're highly acne-prone.
Moon Walk has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with nightly use (2-3 drops per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The squeeze tube packaging helps protect the formula from oxidation and contamination.
Verdict: Bubble Moon Walk delivers on its promise as the "gentlest exfoliator ever" - it's an excellent entry point for anyone new to chemical exfoliation or with sensitive skin. The clever combination of mild AHAs with soothing botanicals means you get real results without the scary stinging sensation. At $17, it's an accessible way to improve skin texture and brightness. However, experienced acid users may find it too mild, and those with fungal acne should look elsewhere due to the fermented ingredients. Overall, a smart, well-formulated product that fills a real gap in the market for gentle, beginner-friendly exfoliation.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|