Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel
Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel
Product Description
L'Oreal Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel is a daily exfoliating gel cleanser that pairs 3.5% pure glycolic acid (AHA) with salicylic acid (BHA) and lipohydroxy acid (LHA). It dissolves the bonds between dead surface cells to resurface, decongest pores, and reveal smoother, brighter skin, while soothing aloe and a light cooling menthol finish keep it refreshing. This dermatologist-validated, fragrance-free gel is designed for AM/PM use and to prep skin before serums.
β¨ Texture & Feel
3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid
The optimal in-cleanser concentration of the smallest-molecule AHA, dissolving dead-cell buildup to resurface and brighten dull skin.
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
Glycolic acid (AHA) works on the surface while salicylic acid (BHA) and capryloyl salicylic acid (LHA) dive into pores to clear oil and congestion.
Soothing Aloe
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice and glycerin help cushion the exfoliating acids so the gel stays comfortable enough for daily use.
Non-Drying Daily Formula
Dermatologist-validated and fragrance-free, formulated to cleanse and resurface in one step and prep skin for serums morning and night.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains glycolic acid and salicylic acid. Although it is a low-concentration rinse-off product, many doctors advise caution with BHA during pregnancy. Check with your OB or dermatologist first.
AHAs increase sensitivity to UV. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential while using this product and for about a week after.
The fresh tingle comes from menthol, a known EU allergen that can sting or worsen rosacea and reactive skin. Patch test if sensitive.
It already exfoliates, so go easy on additional leave-on acids or retinoids in the same routine to avoid over-exfoliation.
No added fragrance, parabens, dyes, mineral oil, or silicones, and allergy tested per the brand.
The formula is vegan with no animal-derived ingredients and is reef safe.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
βοΈ Glycolic Acid 3.5% Proven
The hero active and the most researched alpha hydroxy acid. With the smallest molecular size in the AHA family, it penetrates efficiently to loosen the "glue" between dead surface cells, smoothing texture and brightening tone.
- Source: Glycolic acid is recognized by dermatologists as an effective exfoliator that reveals fresher, brighter skin.
- Bonus: Research links glycolic acid to collagen stimulation with long-term use, an advantage over other AHAs.
π― Salicylic Acid BHA Proven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that gets inside pores to break down trapped oil and debris. It helps refine the look of enlarged pores and is structurally related to aspirin, giving it a calming, anti-inflammatory quality.
- Source: The U.S. FDA recognizes 0.5β2% salicylic acid as an OTC acne active.
- Function: Exfoliates both the skin surface and the inside of pores to help control breakouts.
π§ͺ Capryloyl Salicylic Acid LHA Promising
Also called lipohydroxy acid (LHA), a gentler derivative of salicylic acid with a larger molecule. It exfoliates more slowly and superficially, making it a milder option that complements the other acids in this gel.
- Research: One study found roughly 10% LHA comparable to 20β50% glycolic acid for texture and pigmentation.
- Gentleness: Its larger size limits penetration, so it tends to irritate less than standard salicylic acid.
πΏ Aloe + Glycerin Soothing Proven
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice and glycerin are the calming, hydrating counterweight to the acids and surfactants. Aloe is anti-inflammatory and moisturizing, while glycerin is a powerhouse humectant that draws water into the skin.
- Glycerin: A naturally skin-identical humectant that works across all skin types.
- Aloe: Helps soothe and reduce redness and irritation from exfoliation.
βοΈ Menthol Cooling Caution
Menthol gives the cleanser its signature fresh, cooling sensation. That cooling effect actually comes from temporarily sensitizing nerve endings rather than soothing the skin.
- Note: Menthol is a recognized EU allergen and can aggravate rosacea and sensitive skin.
20 ingredients
Water, Coco-Betaine, Propylene Glycol, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Glycolic Acid, Triethanolamine, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Disteareth-100 Ipdi, Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Menthol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Disodium EDTA, Steareth-100, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
As an exfoliating cleanser, this is your very first step, AM and/or PM. Because it contains AHA, always finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF.
π How to Use
Wet your face
Splash skin with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can amplify dryness with exfoliating acids.
Lather & massage
Work a small amount into wet hands and massage onto skin in light circular motions for about 20β30 seconds. A little goes a long way.
Rinse thoroughly
Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Avoid the eye area.
Follow up & protect
Follow with serum and moisturizer. In the morning, always apply SPF to protect freshly resurfaced skin.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You want gentle daily chemical exfoliation in one cleansing step
- You're dealing with dullness, uneven texture, or clogged pores and blackheads
- You enjoy a fresh, cooling cleanse
- You want an affordable AHA cleanser to prep skin for serums
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You have rosacea or highly sensitive, reactive skin (menthol)
- Sulfates like SLES tend to tighten or strip your skin
- You already use strong leave-on acids or retinoids and risk over-exfoliating
- You want a purely hydrating, no-exfoliation cleanser
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The AHA + BHA combination controls oil and clears congestion while leaving a clean, refreshed finish.
Decongests the oily T-zone without being overly aggressive across the whole face when used daily.
Salicylic acid and LHA help unclog pores and reduce blackheads, though as a rinse-off product contact time is short.
Exfoliating acids plus a sulfate can feel tight. Use a few times weekly and always layer on a richer moisturizer.
Menthol and glycolic acid can sting reactive skin. Patch test and reduce frequency if you notice redness.
π Results Timeline
Clean, smooth, refreshed
Skin feels deeply cleansed and noticeably smoother to the touch, with a light cooling sensation.
~85% noticedBrighter, less congested
With regular use, complexion looks fresher and blackheads and surface bumps begin to ease.
~60% noticedMore even texture
Skin tone and texture appear more refined and pores look minimized.
~50% noticedSustained clarity
Consistent use (paired with SPF) supports lasting smoothness and a brighter overall look.
~45% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Effective daily chemical exfoliation in a single cleansing step
- Visibly smoother, brighter skin over time
- Excellent value for an AHA + BHA cleanser
- Fragrance-free and dermatologist-validated
- Removes makeup, oil, and impurities well
- Fresh, cooling finish that preps skin for serums
β Criticized
- Contains menthol, which can sting sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- Contains a sulfate (SLES) that can feel drying
- Not ideal for very dry skin
- Requires diligent daily SPF
- Some find the tube runs out quickly with twice-daily use
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The closest formula on ingredients, combining LHA, glycolic, and salicylic acid. More refined and menthol-free, but several times the price.
A French-pharmacy AHA/BHA gel cleanser with a similar resurfacing goal. Also contains sulfates but skips the menthol cooling agent.
A gentler BHA cleanser with ceramides and no glycolic acid or menthol. Better for dry or barrier-compromised skin, but less brightening.
A leave-on glycolic toner rather than a cleanser, so stronger exfoliation but used differently. A good pairing or swap, not a like-for-like.
π Comparison with Competitors
L'Oreal Revitalift 3.5% Glycolic Cleanser (This Product)
$13.99CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser
$16.99La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Gel
$16.99SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser Gel
$44.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap closed.
Squeeze tube
The 200ml tube exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit, so pack it in checked luggage or decant a smaller amount.
β Frequently Asked Questions
It contains glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA). Because it is a low-concentration, rinse-off cleanser, exposure is minimal, but salicylic acid often prompts a cautious approach during pregnancy. We recommend checking with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding it to a pregnancy routine.
It is largely considered fungal-acne friendly because it rinses off quickly. The one watch-point is PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, a fatty-acidβderived ingredient that some malassezia-prone users avoid in leave-on products. In a wash-off cleanser the short contact time makes a reaction much less likely, but very sensitive users can patch test.
Yes, but be careful not to over-exfoliate. Since this cleanser already contains glycolic, salicylic, and lipohydroxy acids, pair it cautiously with strong leave-on acids or retinoids, ideally alternating nights. Vitamin C is generally fine afterward, and SPF in the morning is a must.
It performs best on oily and combination skin and is good for acne-prone skin that wants daily exfoliation. Dry, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin should approach with care because of the menthol and sulfate content, using it less frequently and following with a rich moisturizer.
Skin usually feels smoother and looks fresher right away. Brightening and reduced congestion typically become noticeable within 1β2 weeks, with more even texture around the 4-week mark and sustained results by 8β12 weeks of consistent use.
It is your first step, used morning and/or evening on wet skin before any toner, serum, or moisturizer. The brand designed it to prep skin for serum application. Always finish your AM routine with SPF.
No. It rates very low (around 1/5) on the comedogenic scale. As an oil-free, rinse-off gel with pore-clearing salicylic acid, it is unlikely to clog pores and is generally a good choice for breakout-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place with the cap closed, and replace it once you reach the 12-month mark for best results.
Verdict: A genuinely effective, budget-friendly exfoliating cleanser. The 3.5% glycolic acid plus salicylic acid and LHA delivers real smoothing, brightening, and pore-clearing benefits for oily and combination skin, and the fragrance-free, dermatologist-validated formula slots easily into a routine. Two caveats keep it from a perfect score: it contains a mild sulfate (SLES) and menthol, so very dry, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin may find it drying or stingy. Pair it with diligent SPF and a good moisturizer, and it stands out as one of the best-value AHA cleansers on the shelf.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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 |
Coco-Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|