Post Acne Gel
Post Acne Gel
Product Description
Hiruscar Post Acne Gel by Swiss pharmaceutical brand Medinova is a clear, fast-absorbing 3-in-1 scar gel. It pairs onion bulb extract (Allium Cepa) with niacinamide and algae-derived polysaccharides to fade post-acne dark marks, gradually soften depressed acne scars and help prevent new scarring โ all in a lightweight, non-greasy formula that layers easily under makeup.
โจ Texture & Feel
3-in-1 Scar Action
Targets existing scars, fades dark marks and helps prevent new acne scarring in a single step.
Fast-Absorbing Gel
Clear, non-sticky texture sinks in quickly and won't pill or cake under makeup.
Antibacterial Support
Formulated to help reduce surface bacteria associated with recurring breakouts.
Skin Regeneration
Onion extract and polysaccharides support the skin's natural repair of post-acne texture.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. Niacinamide and onion extract are generally considered low-risk, but always confirm with your doctor.
Sorbeth-30, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and fragrance can feed malassezia, so this is best avoided if you have fungal acne.
Includes Parfum plus a natural onion scent and DMDM Hydantoin; fragrance-sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first.
Plays well alongside hydrators and SPF. Avoid stacking it at the same time as strong exfoliating acids or retinoids to limit irritation.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ง Allium Cepa Bulb Extract (Onion Extract) Key Active Proven
The signature scar-fighting ingredient. Onion bulb extract is rich in flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soften scar tissue and calm redness.
- Draelos 2008 (J. Cosmetic Dermatology): An onion-extract gel improved the cosmetic appearance of post-surgical scars over roughly 10 weeks.
- Draelos 2012 (randomized, blinded study): A proprietary onion extract gel improved the redness and texture of new scars versus untreated skin.
๐งช Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2-5% (est.) Proven
A multitasking form of vitamin B3 that fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the dark marks acne leaves behind), strengthens the skin barrier, helps regulate oil and improves the elasticity of scar tissue. It is well tolerated by most skin types.
- Clinical data: Niacinamide is shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and even skin tone at concentrations around 2-5%.
- Barrier support: Boosts ceramide production to reinforce the skin's protective barrier.
๐ Algae Exopolysaccharides (MPS) Support Promising
Marine-derived polysaccharides โ the formula's "MPS" component โ that hydrate the skin, form a light conditioning film and support the skin's natural regeneration of post-acne texture.
- Mechanism: Exopolysaccharides are studied as humectants and skin-protecting, soothing agents that help retain moisture.
13 ingredients
Water, Allium Cepa Bulb Extract, Niacinamide, Sorbeth-30, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Quaternium-73, Carbomer, Parfum, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, DMDM Hydantoin, Sodium Hydroxide, Algae Exopolysaccharides.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply to clean, dry skin on affected areas 2-3 times daily. It absorbs fast, so you can layer moisturizer, sunscreen and even makeup on top.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Dry
Wash and pat skin dry. The gel works best applied to clean, dry skin.
Apply to Marks
Dab a thin layer directly onto acne scars, dark marks or fully healed blemishes.
Massage In
Gently massage until fully absorbed โ it's film-free, non-greasy and not sticky.
Repeat 2-3x Daily
Use consistently morning and night (midday too if possible) for at least 4-8 weeks.
Always Use SPF
Sun exposure darkens marks, so finish your morning routine with sunscreen.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have post-acne dark marks (PIH) or lingering red marks you want to fade
- You have shallow, depressed acne scars and want gradual softening
- You want a lightweight gel that layers cleanly under makeup
- You prefer a paraben-, silicone- and sulfate-free pharmacy formula
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) โ this isn't FA-safe
- You're highly fragrance-sensitive or dislike an onion scent
- You have deep ice-pick or boxcar scars needing in-office treatment
- You expect overnight results โ this takes weeks of consistent use
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight gel absorbs fast without adding shine or heaviness.
Balances well across different zones and layers cleanly under other products.
Non-comedogenic and antibacterial, but note it is not fungal-acne safe.
Hydrating polysaccharides help, but pair it with a richer moisturizer on top.
Fragrance and DMDM Hydantoin mean reactive skin should patch test first.
๐ Results Timeline
Early Brightening
Dark marks may begin to look slightly lighter and skin feels smoother to the touch.
40% noticedVisible Fading
Brand testing reports visibly improved post-acne marks at 4 weeks with consistent daily use.
65% noticedScar Softening
Shallow depressed scars and stubborn marks gradually soften and even out.
55% noticedBest Results
Maximum improvement for older marks and scars comes with daily, consistent application.
Continued improvementโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Visibly fades post-acne dark marks (PIH) with consistent use
- Fast-absorbing, non-greasy and layers under makeup
- Backed by onion-extract scar research plus niacinamide
- Free from parabens, silicones and sulfates; reef safe
- Gentle enough for most acne-prone and combination skin
โ Criticized
- Distinct onion scent that some users dislike
- Not fungal-acne safe (emulsifiers + fragrance)
- Results are slow โ typically weeks to months
- Limited effect on deep, pitted scars
- Small 10g tube can feel pricey per gram
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same onion-extract (Cepalin) mechanism in a larger 20g tube, but with no added niacinamide and applied just once daily.
Onion bulb extract with allantoin and panthenol โ soothing and affordable, though marketed more for body and surgical scars.
Targets dark marks and excess oil with high-dose niacinamide, but lacks the onion-extract scar-softening action.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Hiruscar Post Acne Gel (Featured)
$12.90Mederma Advanced Scar Gel
$24.99Dermatix Ultra
$25.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening (unopened shelf life is around 2 years from manufacture).
Store below 30ยฐC in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed.
Squeeze tube โ hygienic, limits air exposure and dispenses a small amount at a time.
Yes โ the compact 10g tube is well under the 100ml carry-on limit.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
It is generally considered low-risk. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens, and its main actives โ niacinamide and onion bulb extract โ are widely regarded as suitable during pregnancy. It does contain fragrance and a formaldehyde-releasing preservative (DMDM Hydantoin) in small amounts, so as with any product, confirm with your doctor or OB before use.
No. The formula includes Sorbeth-30 and PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, plus fragrance, which can feed malassezia yeast. If you are managing fungal acne, this gel is best avoided in favor of an FA-safe alternative.
Yes, but space them out. The niacinamide and onion extract pair well with most routines, however applying it at the same time as strong exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) or retinol can increase irritation. Many people use acids or retinol at night and apply this gel at a different time of day, or on alternate evenings.
It suits oily and combination skin best thanks to its lightweight, non-greasy gel texture, and works well for acne-prone skin (though it isn't fungal-acne safe). Dry skin can use it under a richer moisturizer, while very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin should patch test first.
Some users notice lighter dark marks within 1-2 weeks, and the brand reports visibly improved post-acne marks at around 4 weeks with consistent use. Deeper scars and older marks take longer โ typically 8-12 weeks, with best results over 3-6 months of daily application.
Use it as a targeted treatment step: after cleansing, toner and any serums, then dab it onto marks and scars before sealing with moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen, since sun exposure can darken post-acne marks.
It has a low comedogenic rating of about 1 out of 5. The water-based gel is described as non-comedogenic and won't typically clog pores, which is why it's popular for acne-prone skin. As always, individual reactions can vary.
Around 12 months after opening (the PAO). Unopened, it generally keeps for about 2 years from the manufacturing date. Store it in a cool, dry place with the cap closed to preserve the formula.
Verdict: Hiruscar Post Acne Gel is a well-priced, pharmacy-grade option for fading post-acne dark marks and softening shallow scars, combining research-backed onion bulb extract with niacinamide in a fast-absorbing, makeup-friendly gel. It earns consistent praise for brightening marks and its non-greasy feel, with the main trade-offs being a distinct onion scent, a slow timeline and the fact that it isn't fungal-acne safe. For mild to moderate post-acne marks and PIH, it's a solid, affordable starting point โ just bring patience and daily sunscreen.
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
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.