Serum 71
Serum 71
Product Description
Product overview
A high-performance brightening and firming serum featuring a powerful trio of 2% Tranexamic Acid, 5% Mandelic Acid, and 0.3% Azelaic Acid plus Neodermyl® copper peptide. Targets hyperpigmentation, melasma, adult acne, and loss of firmness without irritation or downtime.
Triple Acid Brightening Complex
Combines tranexamic, mandelic, and azelaic acids to target multiple pathways of hyperpigmentation simultaneously for faster, more visible results.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Acid Brightening Complex
Combines tranexamic, mandelic, and azelaic acids to target multiple pathways of hyperpigmentation simultaneously for faster, more visible results.
Neodermyl® Copper Peptide
Next-generation copper peptide clinically shown to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, improving skin density and reducing fine lines.
CM-Glucan Forte Immune Support
Second-generation beta glucan strengthens the skin barrier and boosts the skin’s immune defense, accelerating healing and reducing sensitivity.
Circadian Rhythm Science
Formulated based on chronobiology principles — designed for nighttime use to work with the skin’s natural repair cycle during sleep.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETopical tranexamic acid is FDA Category B, and mandelic and azelaic acids are generally considered safe. However, limited clinical data exists for this specific combination during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. All ingredients are considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
No fragrance, no parabens, no SLS. Includes CM-Glucan Forte to calm irritation and strengthen the barrier. Suitable for reactive and rosacea-prone skin.
Delivers brightening and anti-aging benefits without retinoids or hydroquinone, eliminating common side effects like excessive peeling, dryness, and photosensitivity.
Can be used alongside retinol, but alternate evenings to prevent over-exfoliation. Use Serum 71 one night and your retinol the next.
Contains mandelic acid (AHA) which can increase sun sensitivity. Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day while using this product.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTranexamic Acid 2%Proven
A synthetic amino acid derivative that interrupts melanin production pathways. Treats hyperpigmentation similarly to hydroquinone but without the irritation or cytotoxicity risk. Also strengthens the skin barrier.
- Mechanism: Inhibits tyrosinase activity and blocks the interaction between melanocytes and keratinocytes, reducing melanin transfer
- Clinical data: Topical tranexamic acid at 2-5% concentration shown to improve melasma as effectively as hydroquinone in multiple studies
- FDA status: Category B — no proven risk in humans based on available data
Mandelic Acid 5%Proven
A gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from almonds with a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, resulting in slower, more even penetration and less irritation. Inhibits tyrosinase to reduce pigmentation while promoting cell turnover.
- Molecular weight: 152.15 g/mol — larger than glycolic acid, penetrates more slowly and evenly
- Dual action: Exfoliates surface cells while simultaneously inhibiting melanin production
- Antibacterial: Demonstrated antimicrobial properties against acne-causing bacteria
Azelaic Acid 0.3%Proven
A dicarboxylic acid naturally produced by yeast on the skin. Reduces redness, inflammation, and discoloration while helping to clear acne. Especially effective for rosacea-related pigmentation concerns.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammatory cytokines that trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Selective action: Targets overactive melanocytes while leaving normally pigmented skin unaffected
- Acne-fighting: Bactericidal against Cutibacterium acnes and normalizes keratinization
Neodermyl® (Copper Lysinate/Prolinate) ActiveProven
A next-generation copper peptide complex combining methylglucoside phosphate with copper, lysine, and proline. Clinically proven to energize fibroblasts and stimulate the production of both collagen and elastin for visible firming.
- Collagen boost: Clinical studies show up to 140% increase in collagen I production in vitro
- Elastin support: Up to 80% increase in elastin production, improving skin bounce-back
- Award-winning: Winner of the In-Cosmetics Innovation Award for its novel mechanism of action
CM-Glucan Forte (Magnesium Carboxymethyl Beta-Glucan) ActivePromising
A second-generation beta glucan with enhanced bioavailability compared to standard beta glucan. Boosts the skin’s innate immune response, accelerates wound healing, and provides deep calming and soothing effects.
- Immune activation: Stimulates Langerhans cells and macrophages for faster skin repair
- Barrier support: Enhances the skin’s natural defense mechanisms and reduces transepidermal water loss
- Developed by: Dr. Peter T. Pugliese, Circadia founder, who conducted some of the first clinical studies on topical beta glucan
12 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Propanediol, Mandelic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Tranexamic Acid, Sodium PCA, Glycerin, Methyl Glucoside Phosphate Proline Lysine Copper Complex (Neodermyl®), Azelaic Acid, Magnesium Carboxymethyl Beta-Glucan (CM-Glucan Forte), Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply in the evening only. If using retinol, alternate nights. Follow with moisturizer to lock in active ingredients. Always wear SPF 30+ during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser in the evening and pat dry. The Circadia Lipid Replacing Cleansing Gel pairs well with this serum.
Apply Serum 71
Dispense several drops (approximately 0.1 g) onto your fingertips. Gently smooth over face and neck, focusing on areas of concern. Avoid direct contact with eyes.
Moisturize
Follow with your preferred moisturizer to seal in the serum and support overnight hydration. The Circadia AquaPorin Hydrating Cream is an excellent complement.
Ease Into Use
Begin with 3 times per week and gradually increase to nightly use as your skin adjusts. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or discontinue use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have melasma, dark spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- You want a non-hydroquinone brightening treatment
- You struggle with adult acne and uneven skin tone simultaneously
- You want to maintain results between professional peels or laser treatments
- You need anti-aging and brightening in one product
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to traditional acid peels
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a high-concentration AHA for deep exfoliation or resurfacing
- You are looking for a budget-friendly option (this is a professional-grade product at a premium price point)
- You want a daytime brightening serum (Serum 71 is formulated for PM use only)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, water-based formula absorbs instantly with zero residue. Mandelic acid helps control oil and refine pores.
Contains Sodium PCA and Glycerin for hydration, but follow with a rich moisturizer. Not heavy enough as a standalone for very dry skin.
Balances well across different face zones. Treats oily T-zone and dry cheeks equally without over-drying or adding shine.
Fragrance-free with CM-Glucan Forte to calm irritation. Start 2-3x per week and build up. More gentle than traditional chemical peels.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe. Mandelic and azelaic acids fight breakouts while tranexamic acid fades post-acne marks.
Neodermyl® copper peptide boosts collagen and elastin. Addresses age spots, firmness loss, and fine lines in one step.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Smoother Texture & Initial Glow
Skin feels noticeably smoother and more refined. Surface-level dullness begins to lift as mandelic acid promotes gentle cell turnover. Slight improvement in radiance.
70% noticed brighter skinReduced Redness & Clearer Skin
Azelaic acid calms inflammation and redness. Acne breakouts begin to decrease in frequency and severity. Post-inflammatory marks start to fade visibly.
60% noticed reduced rednessVisible Pigmentation Fading
Tranexamic acid interrupts melanin pathways, resulting in noticeable lightening of dark spots, melasma patches, and sun damage. Skin tone becomes more even overall.
75% noticed fading dark spotsFirmer, Denser Skin
Neodermyl® copper peptide delivers cumulative firming effects. Collagen and elastin synthesis increases, resulting in improved skin density, bounce, and reduced fine lines.
65% noticed improved firmnessRatings by platform
4+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dramatic improvement in hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Minimizes pores and smooths acne scars
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin with no purging period
- Multi-tasking: brightening, anti-acne, and anti-aging in one product
- Clean, short ingredient list with only 12 ingredients
- A little goes a long way — only a few drops needed per application
- Hydroquinone-free alternative for melasma treatment
- Professional-grade formulation backed by Dr. Pugliese’s research
Criticized
- Small bottle size (15 mL) for the price
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- PM-only use limits versatility
- Can be difficult to purchase without an esthetician referral
- Low azelaic acid concentration (0.3%) compared to standalone azelaic products (10-20%)
- Limited reviews compared to mass-market competitors
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Paula’s Choice Discoloration Repair Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed when not in use.
Glass dropper bottle for precise dispensing and ingredient stability
Yes, well under 100 mL TSA limit at only 15 mL. Compact glass bottle fits easily in any travel bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. Topical tranexamic acid is classified as FDA Category B (no proven risk in humans), and both mandelic acid and azelaic acid are generally considered safe during pregnancy at low concentrations. However, there is limited clinical data on this specific combination during pregnancy or breastfeeding. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider or dermatologist before using Serum 71 during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes. Serum 71 is fungal acne safe. It contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. All 12 ingredients in the formula are compatible with fungal acne-prone skin. The inclusion of azelaic acid may actually help manage fungal acne symptoms.
Yes, with some timing adjustments. For retinol: alternate evenings to avoid over-exfoliation (Serum 71 one night, retinol the next). For vitamin C: use vitamin C in the morning and Serum 71 at night for complementary brightening. For additional AHA/BHA products: avoid layering on the same night as Serum 71 already contains 5% mandelic acid (AHA). Introduce gradually and monitor for irritation.
Serum 71 is formulated for all skin types, including sensitive, oily, dry, combination, and mature skin. It is especially beneficial for those with adult acne, melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), rosacea-related redness, or early signs of skin laxity. The lightweight, fragrance-free formula with CM-Glucan Forte makes it particularly well-suited for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Most users notice smoother texture and a brighter glow within 1-2 weeks. Visible reduction in redness and acne typically appears around weeks 3-4. Fading of deeper pigmentation and dark spots generally becomes noticeable between weeks 4-8 of consistent nightly use. Firming and density improvements from the Neodermyl® copper peptide are cumulative and become most apparent after 8-12 weeks.
Apply Serum 71 in the evening after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer and eye cream. It is a treatment serum, so it should be applied to clean, dry skin as the active treatment step. Follow with a moisturizer to seal in the ingredients. In the morning, apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) as mandelic acid increases photosensitivity.
No. Serum 71 has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it non-comedogenic and highly unlikely to clog pores. The formula contains no oils, heavy emollients, or known pore-clogging ingredients. Mandelic acid actually helps keep pores clear by promoting cell turnover, and azelaic acid normalizes keratinization to prevent clogging.
Serum 71 has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 15 mL bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with nightly use, as only a few drops are needed per application (approximately 0.1 g). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the bottle tightly sealed when not in use to maintain potency.
Verdict: Circadia Serum 71 is a professional-grade, multi-target treatment serum that excels at addressing hyperpigmentation, adult acne, and firmness loss in a single step. The combination of tranexamic, mandelic, and azelaic acids delivers effective brightening without the irritation of hydroquinone, while Neodermyl® copper peptide adds anti-aging benefits rarely found in brightening serums. The clean 12-ingredient formula is impressively free from common irritants. The main trade-off is the premium price point for a 15 mL bottle, which may feel small compared to mass-market alternatives. However, for those seeking a professional-grade, esthetician-trusted formula that consolidates multiple treatment steps, Serum 71 delivers genuine results backed by Dr. Pugliese’s decades of skin research.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Tranexamic Acid
Astringent, Skin Conditioning
|
Irritation
Dark Spots
|