Revive (Azelaic Acid + Centella Asiatica + Sallicylic Acid + Peptides)
Revive (Azelaic Acid + Centella Asiatica + Sallicylic Acid + Peptides)
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, multi-tasking gel serum with 10% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (azelaic acid derivative), 2% Centella Asiatica, and 1% Salicylic Acid to fade post-acne marks, control excess oil, and calm redness — all in a clean, fragrance-free formula with just 12 ingredients. By Soul Apothecary.
Fades Post-Acne Marks
10% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, reducing melanin production and visibly fading dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFades Post-Acne Marks
10% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity, reducing melanin production and visibly fading dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation over time.
Unclogs Pores & Controls Oil
1% Salicylic Acid (BHA) penetrates deep into pores to dissolve excess sebum and dead skin cells, keeping breakouts at bay while refining skin texture.
Soothes & Calms Redness
2% Centella Asiatica Extract delivers potent anti-inflammatory benefits with madecassoside and asiaticoside, calming irritated and reactive skin.
Peptide-Powered Renewal
Oligopeptide-1 (EGF) supports skin cell turnover and repair, promoting smoother, healthier-looking skin with continued use.
Lightweight Hydration
Glycerin and Propanediol work as humectants to pull moisture into the skin without heaviness, leaving a comfortable, non-greasy feel.
Minimalist Clean Formula
Only 12 ingredients — free from oils, fragrances, parabens, silicones, sulfates, and allergens. Designed for sensitive, acne-prone skin that reacts to complex formulas.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA). While low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low-risk, many dermatologists advise caution during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
This formula is free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Comedogenic rating 0/5. Contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients. Unlikely to cause breakouts or clogged pores.
Fragrance-free, allergen-free, and formulated with soothing allantoin and centella asiatica. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin due to salicylic acid content.
Do not use simultaneously with Vitamin C, retinoids, or other exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA). Use on alternate days or at different times of day to avoid irritation.
Works great with Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Centella-based moisturizers. Excellent combo with Soul Apothecary Radiance Boost Serum.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) BaseSolvent
Purified water serves as the primary solvent and base of this formulation, dissolving water-soluble actives like Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate and Salicylic Acid for effective delivery into the skin.
- Role: Universal solvent that enables even distribution of active ingredients across the skin surface
- Note: Deionized water is used in cosmetic formulations for improved product stability
Glycerin ~5-10%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally present in skin that pulls moisture from the environment into the deeper layers of the epidermis, strengthening the moisture barrier and keeping skin plump and hydrated.
- Study: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Benefit: Low molecular weight allows deep penetration for sustained hydration
- Bonus: Has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, commonly used in wound and burn treatments
Propanediol ~3-5%Proven
A naturally derived moisturizing agent from corn sugar that acts as a solvent, humectant, and texture enhancer. Ecocert-approved and considered a cleaner alternative to propylene glycol.
- Function: Boosts skin hydration and improves the sensory feel of the formula
- Safety: Non-irritating, not likely to cause sensitivity reactions
- Bonus: Also enhances the efficacy of the preservative system (Caprylhydroxamic Acid)
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (PAD) 10%Proven
A water-soluble derivative of azelaic acid combined with glycine. This is the star active ingredient — it inhibits tyrosinase to brighten skin, reduces sebum production, and soothes redness. Easier to formulate than pure azelaic acid and gentler on skin.
- Study: A 2023 study showed 5% PAD combined with nicotinamide reduced melanin production after just 6 weeks of use
- Research: Multiple studies from the 2010s demonstrate PAD effectively alleviates rosacea symptoms
- Advantage: Water-soluble unlike pure azelaic acid, making it easier to absorb and less likely to pill
Matrine <1%Promising
A plant-derived alkaloid extracted from Sophora root, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Used in traditional medicine and increasingly in skincare for calming irritated skin.
- Property: Antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radical damage
- Traditional use: Long history in traditional Chinese medicine for soothing skin conditions
Triethanolamine <1%pH Adjuster
A pH-adjusting and buffering agent that ensures the formula stays at the optimal acidic pH for salicylic acid activity while remaining gentle on the skin.
- Function: Balances the acidity of salicylic acid and azelaic acid derivative for stability and efficacy
- Safety: Used in very small concentrations as a standard cosmetic pH adjuster
Allantoin <1%Proven
A soothing and skin-conditioning agent found naturally in comfrey root, chamomile, and wheat sprouts. Promotes cell regeneration and calms irritation, making it an ideal companion for active ingredients.
- Benefit: Accelerates wound healing and stimulates new tissue growth
- Soothing: Reduces irritation from active exfoliants like salicylic acid
- Fun fact: Our bodies naturally produce allantoin as a byproduct of uric acid metabolism
Centella Asiatica Extract 2%Proven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this powerhouse botanical is rich in triterpenoid compounds (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid) that reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and stimulate hyaluronic acid synthesis in skin.
- Study: A 4-week clinical study of 25 subjects confirmed significant skin moisturizing properties
- Compounds: Contains centellosides that stimulate GAGs (glycosaminoglycans) and hyaluronic acid synthesis
- History: Used for centuries in Southeast Asian medicine to treat burns, scratches, and wounds
Salicylic Acid 1%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, exfoliate dead skin cells, and reduce inflammation. Also shares structural similarity with aspirin for anti-inflammatory benefits.
- FDA: Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as over-the-counter topical acne treatments
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble nature allows it to work inside pores, unlike AHAs which only exfoliate the surface
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms inflamed, irritated acne lesions due to aspirin-like structure
Oligopeptide-1 (EGF) <0.1%Promising
Epidermal Growth Factor — a signal peptide that promotes cell turnover and skin renewal. Supports the skin's natural repair processes for smoother, healthier-looking skin over time.
- Function: Stimulates fibroblast activity and collagen production at the cellular level
- Benefit: Supports smoother skin texture and helps with scar healing and skin renewal
Xanthan Gum <1%Stabilizer
A natural polysaccharide thickener and emulsion stabilizer that gives the serum its gel-like consistency. Ensures even application and a pleasant, non-sticky texture when combined with other thickening agents.
- Function: Creates the smooth, spreadable gel texture that makes application easy
- Safety: Widely used, non-irritating, and safe for all skin types
Caprylhydroxamic Acid <1%Preservative
A gentle, effective preservative derived from coconut oil that protects the formula from microbial contamination. Often used as a milder alternative to traditional preservatives like parabens and phenoxyethanol.
- Safety: Considered one of the gentlest preservatives available, suitable for sensitive skin formulas
- Advantage: Paraben-free and formaldehyde-free preservation system
12 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Matrine, Triethanolamine, Allantoin, Centella Asiatica Extract, Salicylic Acid, Oligopeptide-1, Xanthan Gum, Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest used in the evening (80% of community routines apply it at night). Apply after toner. Layer other serums and moisturizers from thinnest to thickest consistency. Always wear sunscreen during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a gentle cleanser, then apply your toner. Pat skin until mostly dry but still slightly damp for better absorption.
Apply a Thin Layer
Spread a thin, even layer of Revive serum across your entire face, avoiding the eye area. A little goes a long way — 2-3 pumps is enough.
Wait & Layer
Allow 30-60 seconds for absorption, then follow with your moisturizer. Layer products from thinnest to thickest consistency.
Frequency
Start with 2-3 times per week and gradually increase frequency as your skin tolerates. Most users work up to daily evening use within 2-3 weeks.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have stubborn post-acne marks (PIH/PIE) that take forever to fade
- You struggle with excess oiliness and clogged pores
- You want a minimalist formula with proven actives and no fillers
- Your skin is sensitive and reacts to heavily fragranced products
- You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe treatment
- You want an affordable azelaic acid serum that layers well
Consider alternatives if:
- You need deep hydration — this is a treatment serum, not a moisturizer
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult a doctor first due to salicylic acid)
- You want immediate visible results — actives take 4-8 weeks for noticeable change
- You already use multiple exfoliating products (AHA, BHA, retinoids)
- You prefer rich, creamy textures — this is a thin, watery gel
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, lightweight gel absorbs instantly. Salicylic acid and PAD both help control sebum production without stripping moisture.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, and formulated specifically to target acne marks, active breakouts, and clogged pores.
Balances well across oily and dry zones. Hydrating base with glycerin and propanediol won't over-dry cheeks while treating the T-zone.
Fragrance-free with soothing centella and allantoin. PAD is gentler than pure azelaic acid. Patch test first and start slowly due to salicylic acid.
Provides light hydration via glycerin but is not moisturizing enough on its own. Must pair with a rich moisturizer. BHA may increase dryness if barrier is weak.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Initial Adjustment
Skin may experience mild purging (small breakouts) as salicylic acid clears pore buildup. Skin feels smoother to the touch and less oily by end of week 2.
40% noticed smoother textureVisible Brightening
Post-acne redness begins to fade noticeably. Pores appear more refined. Skin tone starts looking more even and less blotchy. Breakout frequency decreases.
60% noticed brighter complexionSignificant Improvement
Dark spots and acne marks are visibly lighter. Oil control is consistent throughout the day. Overall skin clarity and tone have improved substantially.
80% noticed fading of dark spotsFull Results
Cumulative effects are now clearly visible — significantly reduced hyperpigmentation, minimal new breakouts, balanced oil production, and calmer, healthier-looking skin overall.
90% reported clearer skinRatings by platform
755+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visibly fades post-acne marks and dark spots within 4-8 weeks
- Ultra-clean formula with only 12 ingredients — no fillers or irritants
- Fungal acne safe, oil-free, and non-comedogenic (0/5 rating)
- Thin, watery consistency absorbs quickly and layers beautifully
- Affordable pricing compared to Western azelaic acid serums
- Community-loved — used in 419+ skincare routines on SkinSort
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive, reactive skin
Criticized
- 15ml size runs out fast; 30ml recommended for regular users
- May cause mild purging during the first 1-2 weeks of use
- Not widely available outside Philippines and select online retailers
- Contains salicylic acid — not recommended without medical advice during pregnancy
- Not hydrating enough for dry skin types on its own
- Uses PAD (azelaic acid derivative) rather than pure azelaic acid
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUses pure 10% azelaic acid instead of the PAD derivative. More widely available (Sephora, Ulta) but has 17 ingredients including polysorbate 60. Not fungal acne safe. Green-tinted formula helps mask redness instantly.
Cream formula with 10% pure azelaic acid plus cica exosomes and passion fruit oil. More moisturizing but heavier texture. Does not contain salicylic acid or peptides. Widely available at Ulta and Target.
Highest ingredient overlap (58% match on SkinSort) but focuses on BHA exfoliation without azelaic acid brightening benefits. Simpler formula for pore-clearing only. Lacks centella and peptide components.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDESoul Apothecary Revive
Good Molecules 10% Azelaic Acid
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; refrigeration is not required but can extend freshness.
Slim spray/pump bottle in opaque packaging to protect actives from light degradation
Yes — both 15ml and 30ml sizes are well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Slim design fits easily in travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. This serum contains 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which many dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding, especially in higher concentrations or with regular use. While 1% topical BHA is generally considered low risk, the safest approach is to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. The azelaic acid derivative (PAD) and centella asiatica are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Yes. This serum is confirmed fungal acne safe. It does not contain any of the common fungal acne triggers such as ferments, fatty acids (like oleic acid), esters, polysorbates, or oils. The entire 12-ingredient formula is free from compounds that feed malassezia yeast. This has been verified by SkinSort and the skincare community.
Avoid layering Revive with Vitamin C, retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene), or other exfoliating acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid) at the same time. These combinations can cause excessive irritation, dryness, and compromise your skin barrier. Instead, use them on alternate days or at different times of day — for example, Revive at night and Vitamin C in the morning. Revive pairs beautifully with Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, and Hyaluronic Acid.
Revive is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its oil-free, lightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without adding shine, while the salicylic acid and PAD combination targets excess sebum and clogged pores. It also works well for sensitive skin thanks to centella asiatica and allantoin, though patch testing is recommended. Dry skin types can use it but should pair with a richer moisturizer.
Most users report initial improvements in skin texture and oiliness within 2 weeks. Visible brightening and fading of post-acne marks typically becomes noticeable around weeks 3-4. Significant improvement in dark spots and overall clarity is usually seen between weeks 6-8 with consistent use. Full results for stubborn hyperpigmentation may take 8-12 weeks. Some users experience mild purging during the first 1-2 weeks, which is normal as salicylic acid clears pore congestion.
Apply Revive as step 3 in your routine — after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Layer products from thinnest to thickest consistency. The majority of the skincare community (80%) uses this product in the evening routine. If used in the morning, always follow with sunscreen as BHA can increase sun sensitivity.
No. Soul Apothecary Revive has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. The formula is completely free from oils, silicones, and heavy emollients that are commonly associated with pore congestion. In fact, the 1% Salicylic Acid actively works to unclog existing pore buildup, making this serum actively anti-comedogenic.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The opaque packaging helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation. If you notice any change in color, texture, or smell, discontinue use. The 15ml size typically lasts 4-6 weeks with regular use (2-3x weekly), while the 30ml size lasts 2-3 months.
Verdict: Soul Apothecary Revive is a standout minimalist serum that punches well above its price point. The combination of 10% Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, 1% Salicylic Acid, 2% Centella Asiatica, and Oligopeptide-1 in a clean 12-ingredient formula is remarkably well-designed for targeting post-acne marks, excess oil, and redness simultaneously. Its fungal acne safety, non-comedogenic profile (0/5), and fragrance-free formulation make it accessible to even the most sensitive, acne-prone skin types. The only drawbacks are limited global availability and the caution needed during pregnancy due to salicylic acid. For anyone dealing with stubborn post-acne hyperpigmentation and oily, breakout-prone skin, this Filipino gem deserves a spot in your routine.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
Matrine
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
|





