Pimple Eraser Cream
Pimple Eraser Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-tested spot treatment cream formulated with 1% Salicylic Acid, 0.5% Glycolic Acid, 0.5% Niacinamide, Zinc Oxide, and Vitamin C (Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) to dry up pimples in as fast as 3 days, fade dark spots from past breakouts, and smooth skin texture for a clearer, more radiant complexion.
Dries Pimples Fast
1% Salicylic Acid penetrates pores to dissolve sebum plugs and dry active pimples in as fast as 3 days.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDries Pimples Fast
1% Salicylic Acid penetrates pores to dissolve sebum plugs and dry active pimples in as fast as 3 days.
Fades Dark Spots
Niacinamide and Ethyl Ascorbic Acid work together to lighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from past breakouts.
Gentle Exfoliation
0.5% Glycolic Acid (AHA) removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and smooths skin texture for a more radiant look.
Anti-Inflammatory Protection
Zinc Oxide calms redness, reduces inflammation, and provides a mild protective barrier against UV exposure.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and 0.5% Glycolic Acid (AHA). Topical salicylic acid at low concentrations is generally considered low risk, but some dermatologists recommend avoiding it during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Isopropyl Myristate (comedogenic rating 5), Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, and Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) — fatty acids and esters that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 3/5 due to Isopropyl Myristate (rated 5/5 comedogenic). While the overall formula is dermatologist-tested, those highly prone to clogged pores should patch test first.
Free from drying alcohols (denat. alcohol). Cetearyl Alcohol present is a non-drying fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient.
No added fragrances or essential oils. Less likely to irritate sensitive or reactive skin.
Preserved with Methylisothiazolinone and Chlorphenesin instead of parabens. Note: MI can be sensitizing for some individuals.
Contains AHA (Glycolic Acid) which increases sun sensitivity. Always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day, even though Zinc Oxide provides mild UV protection.
As with any active-containing product, apply a small amount behind the ear or inner wrist for 24 hours before full use, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid 1%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores. It dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together, unclogs pores, and has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm active breakouts.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble exfoliant that works inside the pore lining to dissolve sebum and debris
- FDA-Recognized: Concentrations of 0.5–2% are recognized as effective OTC acne treatments
- Anti-Inflammatory: Structurally related to aspirin, providing a calming effect on inflamed skin
Glycolic Acid 0.5%Proven
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) molecule, derived from sugarcane. Its tiny size allows excellent skin penetration. At 0.5%, it provides gentle exfoliation that improves skin texture and tone without aggressive peeling.
- Exfoliation: Breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface to reveal smoother skin
- Collagen Support: Studies show AHAs can stimulate collagen production at higher concentrations
- Synergy: Works alongside Salicylic Acid — AHA exfoliates the surface while BHA targets inside the pore
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 0.5%Proven
A versatile, well-studied form of Vitamin B3 that addresses multiple skin concerns simultaneously. At 0.5%, it provides brightening and soothing benefits without the flushing that can occur at higher concentrations.
- Dark Spots: Inhibits melanin transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, helping fade hyperpigmentation
- Sebum Control: Clinical studies show niacinamide can reduce sebum excretion rate
- Barrier Support: Boosts ceramide and fatty acid production for a healthier skin barrier
Zinc Oxide N/AProven
A mineral ingredient with broad-spectrum UV-filtering capability (UVA + UVB). It also functions as a skin protectant, anti-irritant, and mild antiseptic — making it particularly suited for acne-prone, inflamed skin.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and swelling associated with active breakouts
- UV Protection: The broadest spectrum mineral UV filter approved by the FDA, reflecting both UVA and UVB
- Wound Healing: Supports skin repair and helps prevent post-acne scarring
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) N/APromising
A stable, water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid). More stable than pure L-Ascorbic Acid, it converts to active Vitamin C in the skin, providing antioxidant protection and brightening without rapid oxidation.
- Stability: Does not oxidize as quickly as pure Vitamin C, maintaining efficacy longer in formulations
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase activity, reducing melanin production for a more even skin tone
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution
17 ingredients
Aqua, Mineral Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Zinc Oxide, Isopropyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycolic Acid, Niacinamide, Methylisothiazolinone, Chlorphenesin, Salicylic Acid, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as a spot treatment after cleansing and toning, before serum and moisturizer. Use twice daily (AM & PM). At night, you can leave a thicker layer on active pimples for overnight drying.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Make sure the affected area is clean and free of makeup or excess oil.
Apply to Affected Area
Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip and gently dab it directly onto active pimples or dark spots. Avoid rubbing into the surrounding skin.
Let It Absorb
Allow 30–60 seconds for the cream to absorb. During the day, blend lightly to minimize white cast. At night, leave a thicker layer for intensive overnight treatment.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Continue your routine with serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (morning). The AHA content increases sun sensitivity — daily SPF 30+ is essential.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have occasional breakouts and need a fast-acting spot treatment
- You want to fade dark spots and acne marks from past pimples
- You prefer an affordable, multi-active acne treatment under ₱150
- You have oily or combination skin that tolerates exfoliating acids well
- You want a product with both AHA and BHA for comprehensive pore care
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You have extremely dry or eczema-prone skin that reacts to exfoliating acids
- You need a treatment for deep cystic acne (this works best on surface-level pimples)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and prefer to avoid BHA/AHA entirely
- You are sensitive to Methylisothiazolinone (MI) preservative
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSalicylic acid is oil-soluble and excels at cutting through sebum. Zinc oxide helps control shine. Ideal match for oily, breakout-prone skin.
Works great as a spot treatment on the oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Use targeted application for best results.
Effective on surface-level pimples and whiteheads. Contains comedogenic Isopropyl Myristate, so patch test if you clog easily. Not for cystic acne.
The cream base with Shea Butter and Glycerin provides some moisture, but AHA/BHA can be drying. Always layer with a richer moisturizer on top.
Fragrance-free, but contains exfoliating acids and MI preservative which may irritate reactive skin. Patch test first and start with nighttime-only use.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Pimples Begin to Dry
Active pimples start flattening and drying out, especially whiteheads and pustules. Slight tingling upon application is normal as the acids begin working.
70% noticed initial dryingReduced Redness & Smoother Texture
Visible reduction in pimple size and redness. Glycolic acid exfoliation smooths rough patches and begins fading fresh acne marks. Some purging may occur as clogged pores clear out.
60% noticed improvement in textureDark Spots Start to Fade
Niacinamide and Vitamin C gradually lighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Recurring breakouts in treated areas should decrease. Skin tone appears more even.
55% noticed fading dark spotsClearer, More Radiant Complexion
With consistent twice-daily use, acne marks continue to fade and new breakouts are reduced. Overall complexion appears brighter and pores look more refined with regular AHA/BHA exfoliation.
50% reported visibly clearer skinRatings by platform
851+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable — one of the cheapest multi-active acne treatments in the Philippine market
- Dries up surface pimples noticeably within 1–3 days for most users
- Combines AHA + BHA + Niacinamide + Vitamin C in a single product
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free formulation
- Compact, travel-friendly tube and sachet packaging
- Dermatologist-tested and suitable for all skin types
- Does not sting or burn excessively upon application
Criticized
- Leaves a noticeable white cast — difficult to wear under makeup
- Not effective on deep cystic pimples or hormonal acne
- Contains Isopropyl Myristate (comedogenic rating 5) — can clog pores for some
- Not fungal acne safe due to multiple FA-triggering ingredients
- Results for dark spot fading are gradual and require weeks of consistent use
- Contains Methylisothiazolinone (MI), a preservative that can sensitize some skin
- Limited availability outside the Philippines
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUses Salicylic Acid + Calamine + Sulfur instead of Glycolic Acid + Niacinamide. Mud-powder texture dries faster with less white cast. Better overnight drying but lacks brightening actives.
Gel-based formula with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide. No white cast and absorbs instantly. However, lacks Glycolic Acid exfoliation and Vitamin C brightening. More expensive per gram.
Contains 2% Salicylic Acid (double the concentration). Clear liquid format with no white cast. More potent BHA but missing AHA, Niacinamide, and Vitamin C found in QuickFX. Significantly pricier.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Luxe Organix Acne Rescue Mud Powder
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent oxidation of Vitamin C.
Squeeze tube (30g) or twist-cap sachet tube (10g). Opaque packaging helps protect light-sensitive actives.
Yes — both 10g and 30g sizes are well under 100ml. Compact tube fits easily in a travel pouch or carry-on bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula contains 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA) and 0.5% Glycolic Acid (AHA). While topical salicylic acid at concentrations below 2% is generally considered low risk by many dermatologists, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding BHA and AHA during pregnancy as a precaution. No retinoids or hydroquinone are present. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using this product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Isopropyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, and Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter). If you have diagnosed or suspected fungal acne, consider alternatives like Oxecure Acne Clear Potion or The Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% Masque which have simpler, FA-friendly formulations.
Since this product already contains both AHA (Glycolic Acid) and BHA (Salicylic Acid), layering additional exfoliating acids can cause over-exfoliation, irritation, and a compromised skin barrier. Avoid using other AHA/BHA serums or peels at the same time. Niacinamide is safe to combine. For retinol, alternate nights — use retinol on one night and this cream on the next. Vitamin C serums can be used in the morning if this cream is applied at night.
This cream works best for oily and combination skin types dealing with occasional breakouts and post-acne dark spots. The Salicylic Acid is oil-soluble and excels at treating oily, congested pores. Those with dry skin can still use it as a spot treatment but should pair it with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to the exfoliating acids and MI preservative.
Many users report that active pimples begin to dry and flatten within 1–3 days of consistent application. Visible improvement in skin smoothness and reduced redness typically appears within 1–2 weeks. Fading of dark spots and acne marks takes longer — generally 3–4 weeks of twice-daily use. Full results for hyperpigmentation may take 2–3 months of consistent use. Individual results vary based on skin type and acne severity.
Apply it as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, but before serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Use it as a targeted spot treatment — dab directly onto active pimples and dark spots rather than applying all over the face. Use twice daily (morning and night) for best results. In the morning, blend the cream well to minimize white cast before applying makeup.
This product has a comedogenic rating of 3 out of 5, primarily due to Isopropyl Myristate, which has an individual comedogenic rating of 5. While the overall formulation is dermatologist-tested and works well for most users, those who are highly prone to clogged pores or closed comedones should patch test on a small area first. Using it strictly as a spot treatment (rather than all over the face) minimizes the risk of pore congestion.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly sealed to preserve the efficacy of active ingredients like Vitamin C and Glycolic Acid. If the texture, color, or smell changes noticeably, discard the product and replace it. The smaller 10g size is ideal if you only use it occasionally.
Verdict: QuickFX Pimple Eraser Cream is one of the best-value acne spot treatments in the Philippine market, packing five active ingredients — Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Niacinamide, Zinc Oxide, and Vitamin C — into a formula that costs less than ₱5 per gram. It genuinely dries up surface-level pimples fast and gradually fades dark spots with consistent use. However, the white cast limits daytime wearability, the Isopropyl Myristate makes it risky for clog-prone or fungal acne skin, and it won't tackle deep cystic acne. For its price point, it delivers impressive multi-active performance — just know its limitations and use it as a targeted spot treatment rather than an all-over solution.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
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.