Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel
Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-validated daily exfoliating gel cleanser featuring 3.5% pure glycolic acid combined with salicylic acid and soothing aloe. This fragrance-free formula gently resurfaces skin to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion while prepping skin for optimal serum absorption.
Dual-Acid Exfoliation
Combines 3.5% glycolic acid (AHA) with salicylic acid (BHA) for both surface and pore-level exfoliation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Acid Exfoliation
Combines 3.5% glycolic acid (AHA) with salicylic acid (BHA) for both surface and pore-level exfoliation.
Soothing Aloe Formula
Contains aloe barbadensis leaf juice to calm and hydrate while preventing over-drying during exfoliation.
Cooling Menthol
Menthol provides a refreshing, cooling sensation that leaves skin feeling invigorated after cleansing.
Dermatologist Validated
Formula validated by an external panel of dermatologists for efficacy, safety, and tolerance on all skin types.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEUse with caution. Glycolic acid under 10% is generally considered safe, but contains salicylic acid. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Generally safe for use while breastfeeding. Topical application results in minimal systemic absorption.
Safe for fungal acne. Contains no fatty acids, oils, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia. Glycolic acid helps exfoliate fungal acne-affected skin.
Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free and allergy-tested formula. Start with every-other-day use.
AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ daily and limit sun exposure when using this cleanser.
Can be used in the same routine but not at the same time. Use retinol at night and this cleanser in the morning, or alternate days.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 3.5%Proven
The smallest AHA molecule, glycolic acid penetrates effectively to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath.
- Function: Exfoliates surface dead skin cells
- Benefits: Brightens, smooths texture, reduces fine lines
- Research: Decades of dermatological use with proven efficacy
Salicylic Acid BHAProven
A beta-hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve sebum and debris from within.
- Function: Unclogs pores, anti-inflammatory
- Benefits: Minimizes pore appearance, prevents breakouts
- Research: Gold standard ingredient for acne treatment
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceSoothing
Natural plant extract with anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties to help calm skin during the exfoliation process.
- Function: Soothes, hydrates, anti-inflammatory
- Benefits: Reduces irritation potential from acids
- Research: Well-documented skin-soothing properties
GlycerinHydrating
A powerful humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping maintain hydration even while exfoliating.
- Function: Humectant, moisturizer
- Benefits: Prevents over-drying during cleansing
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
20 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, 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
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening. Follow with Revitalift Derm Intensives serums for best results. Always apply SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face to prepare skin for cleansing.
Lather Cleanser
Dispense a small amount into wet hands and work into a gentle lather.
Massage Gently
Apply to face using light circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
Follow Up
Apply your serum while skin is still slightly damp, then moisturizer and SPF (morning).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to brighten dull, uneven skin tone
- You need to improve rough skin texture
- You have enlarged pores or congested skin
- You want to prep skin for better serum absorption
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare
- You want drugstore-accessible exfoliation
- You have fungal acne concerns
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin
- You are currently using high-strength retinoids
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You are sensitive to menthol/cooling sensations
- You are pregnant (consult doctor first)
- You have active skin wounds or severe irritation
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal for oily skin. AHA/BHA combination helps control excess sebum and keeps pores clear without over-stripping.
Great for combination skin. Addresses oily T-zone while glycerin helps maintain moisture in drier areas.
Perfect for maintaining healthy, radiant skin. Gentle daily exfoliation enhances natural glow.
Use cautiously. May be too drying for very dry skin. Consider using every other day and following with rich moisturizer.
Dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin. Start slowly with 2-3x weekly use. The menthol may cause tingling.
Excellent for acne-prone skin. Salicylic acid unclogs pores while glycolic acid prevents dead skin buildup.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSCleaner, Refreshed Feel
Skin feels cleaner and more refreshed immediately after use. You may notice a slight tingling sensation from the acids and menthol.
90% noticed cleaner skinSmoother Texture
Skin texture begins to improve as dead skin cell buildup is reduced. Skin feels noticeably softer and smoother.
75% noticed smoother textureBrighter, More Even Tone
Skin appears brighter and more radiant. Pores look minimized and overall complexion becomes more even.
70% noticed brighter skinContinued Improvement
With consistent use, fine lines appear softened, dark spots fade, and skin maintains a healthy, resurfaced appearance.
65% noticed anti-aging benefitsRatings by platform
13K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective dual-acid exfoliation (AHA + BHA)
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Fragrance-free and allergy-tested
- Dermatologist validated formula
- Makes skin noticeably softer and smoother
- Helps with serum absorption
- Widely available at drugstores
- Large 6.7 oz size for the price
Criticized
- Menthol can cause intense tingling for some
- Contains SLES (sodium laureth sulfate)
- May be drying for very dry skin types
- Results are gradual, not dramatic
- Not suitable during pregnancy (salicylic acid)
- Requires daily SPF commitment
- Some find formula too mild for stubborn concerns
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Leave-on toner format with higher glycolic concentration (7%). More potent exfoliation but no salicylic acid. Great value per ounce.
Contains 4% benzoyl peroxide + glycolic acid with added ceramides for barrier support. Better for active acne but may be more drying.
5% glycolic acid toner with aloe vera and ginseng. Leave-on format means longer acid contact time. Contains fragrance.
3% glycolic acid with green tea and pomegranate. Foaming formula, dermatologist-approved for sensitive skin. Higher price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEL'Oréal Revitalift 3.5% Glycolic Cleanser
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap
No - exceeds 100ml TSA limit. Purchase travel size or transfer to smaller container.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy. While glycolic acid at 3.5% is generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy (under 10% concentration), this cleanser also contains salicylic acid. Some healthcare providers recommend avoiding salicylic acid during pregnancy. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding as topical application results in minimal systemic absorption.
Yes, this cleanser is safe for fungal acne. It does not contain fatty acids, oils, esters, fermented ingredients, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Both glycolic acid and salicylic acid are actually beneficial for fungal acne as they help exfoliate affected skin and keep pores clear without providing food for the fungus.
Yes, but use caution to avoid over-exfoliation. For retinol: use the cleanser in the morning and retinol at night, or alternate days. For vitamin C: they can be used together safely - cleanse first, then apply vitamin C serum. For other AHA/BHA products: avoid layering multiple acid products in the same routine. Start with the cleanser alone and introduce other actives gradually.
This cleanser works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. It's excellent for acne-prone skin due to the AHA/BHA combination. Sensitive skin can use it but should start slowly (2-3 times weekly). Very dry or eczema-prone skin may find it too drying and should consider a gentler option or use less frequently with a rich moisturizer.
Initial results (cleaner, refreshed feeling) are noticeable immediately. Smoother texture typically appears within 2-3 weeks of consistent use. Brighter, more even-toned skin usually becomes visible after 4-6 weeks. For anti-aging benefits like reduced fine lines, expect 8+ weeks of regular use. Results are cumulative and improve with consistent application.
This cleanser is the first step in your routine, both morning and evening. Use it to wash your face before any other products. Follow with toner (optional), treatment serums, moisturizer, and always SPF 30+ in the morning. At night, follow with your preferred serums and night cream. If you wear makeup, double cleanse by removing makeup first, then use this as your second cleanse.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores. As a rinse-off product, ingredients don't stay on the skin long enough to cause congestion. In fact, the glycolic and salicylic acids actively work to unclog pores and prevent buildup. It's dermatologist-tested and suitable for acne-prone skin.
This cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the cap tightly closed between uses. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell before the 12-month mark, discontinue use. With twice-daily use, the 6.7 oz bottle typically lasts 2-3 months.
Verdict: L'Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel is an excellent drugstore option for anyone looking to incorporate chemical exfoliation into their routine. The combination of glycolic acid and salicylic acid provides effective dual-action exfoliation at an accessible price point. It's dermatologist-validated, fragrance-free, and fungal acne safe. While the menthol may be intense for some and it's not ideal for very dry skin, this cleanser delivers noticeable improvements in texture, brightness, and pore appearance with consistent use. A solid choice for oily, combination, and normal skin types seeking affordable, effective 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 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
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
|