Sérum Visage Concentré Acide Glycolique 10% & AHA
Sérum Visage Concentré Acide Glycolique 10% & AHA
Product Description
A highly concentrated French pharmacy serum with 10% glycolic acid and a blend of fruit-derived AHAs to exfoliate, brighten, and renew skin. Enriched with hyaluronic acid for hydration, this fragrance-free formula targets dull complexions, enlarged pores, acne scars, and uneven texture while stimulating collagen production.
✨ Texture & Feel
Powerful Exfoliation
10% glycolic acid concentration provides optimal keratolytic effect without over-irritating skin, removing dead cells to reveal brighter complexion.
Multi-Fruit AHA Complex
Bilberry, orange, lemon, sugar cane, and maple extracts deliver lactic, citric, malic, and tartaric acids for multi-level exfoliation.
Hyaluronic Acid Boost
Sodium hyaluronate hydrates and plumps while balancing the exfoliating action, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Plant-Based Formula
100% naturally-derived ingredients including willow bark extract (natural salicylic acid) for antimicrobial benefits.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Use with caution. At 10% concentration, glycolic acid is generally considered safe per ACOG guidelines, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Considered safe according to LactMed database. Minimal systemic absorption. Avoid applying to areas that may contact infant's skin.
Oil-free formula contains no fatty acids, esters, or ferments that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rating 1/5. No pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Lightweight gel formula unlikely to cause breakouts.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Apply sunscreen daily and limit sun exposure for at least one week after use.
Mild tingling upon first applications is normal and typically subsides. Discontinue if persistent irritation occurs.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧪 Glycolic Acid 10% Proven
The smallest AHA molecule derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid penetrates deeply to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. At 10% concentration with proper pH (3.5-4.0), it delivers powerful exfoliation without excessive irritation.
- Clinical Studies: 5-20% glycolic acid shown to improve skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and stimulate collagen synthesis.
- Mechanism: Breaks down intercellular lipids holding dead cells, accelerating cell turnover by up to 33%.
- Added Benefit: Stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production in skin.
🍇 AHA Fruit Complex Multi-Fruit Proven
A synergistic blend of bilberry, orange, lemon, sugar cane, and maple extracts providing lactic, citric, malic, and tartaric acids that work at different depths of the epidermis.
- Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry): Rich in lactic and citric acids for gentle surface exfoliation.
- Citrus Extracts: Citric acid brightens and provides antioxidant protection.
- Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane): Source of natural glycolic acid with antimicrobial properties.
💧 Sodium Hyaluronate Biotechnology-derived Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, capable of holding up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides immediate and long-lasting hydration while plumping fine lines.
- Hydration: Creates a moisture reservoir on skin surface, preventing transepidermal water loss.
- Anti-Aging: Plumps fine lines and improves skin elasticity with regular use.
- Synergy: Counterbalances potential drying effects of glycolic acid.
🌿 Salix Nigra Bark Extract Natural BHA Promising
Black willow bark extract provides a natural source of salicylic acid precursors with powerful antimicrobial properties, complementing the AHA action.
- Antimicrobial: Helps prevent bacterial growth that can cause breakouts.
- Pore Refining: Works synergistically with glycolic acid to keep pores clear.
13 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Salix Nigra Bark Extract, Glycerin, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Levulinic Acid, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Sodium Levulinate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum Extract.
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use in PM routine only. Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier treatments. Always follow with moisturizer. Use SPF next morning.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with your regular cleanser.
Apply to Face
Dispense 3-4 drops onto fingertips. Gently pat and spread across face and neck, avoiding eye area and lips.
Allow to Absorb
Wait 30-60 seconds for complete absorption. A mild tingling sensation is normal, especially during first uses.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your regular moisturizer or face oil to lock in hydration and prevent any dryness from exfoliation.
Build Up Gradually
Start 2-3x weekly. Gradually increase to nightly use as skin builds tolerance. Always apply SPF the next morning.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You have dull, uneven skin tone or texture
- You want to fade acne scars or dark spots
- You struggle with enlarged pores or blackheads
- You're looking for an affordable yet effective AHA serum
- You prefer natural, fragrance-free formulas
- You have fungal acne and need a safe exfoliant
- You want to boost collagen and reduce fine lines
- You're experienced with chemical exfoliants
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin
- You're currently using prescription retinoids
- You have active eczema, rosacea flare-ups, or broken skin
- You're new to chemical exfoliants (start with 5-7%)
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You're pregnant and haven't consulted your doctor
- You have sunburned or compromised skin barrier
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight gel absorbs instantly without adding shine. Helps control sebum production and refine pores.
Balances T-zone oiliness while hyaluronic acid hydrates drier areas. Perfect multi-tasker.
Maintains healthy glow and prevents dullness. Great for anti-aging and preventive care.
Glycolic acid actually hydrates by stimulating HA production. Follow with rich moisturizer for best results.
10% may be too strong. Start 1x weekly, patch test first. Consider 5-7% alternatives if irritation persists.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe. Unclogs pores, fades post-acne marks, willow bark adds antimicrobial benefits.
📈 Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Skin may feel slightly tingly during application. Minor purging possible as dead cells shed faster. Skin starts feeling smoother to touch.
70% notice smoother textureVisible Brightness
Complexion appears more radiant and even. Pores look visibly refined. Early fading of superficial dark spots begins.
85% report brighter complexionTexture Transformation
Significant improvement in skin texture and tone. Acne scars and hyperpigmentation continue fading. Fine lines appear softened.
90% see improved textureOptimal Results
Full benefits visible: clearer pores, even skin tone, reduced scarring. Collagen stimulation contributes to firmer, more youthful appearance.
95% satisfied with results*⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Exceptional value for 10% glycolic acid serum
- 100% natural ingredients, made in France
- Visible results within 2-4 weeks
- Fungal acne and sensitive skin friendly formula
- Hyaluronic acid prevents dryness
- Eco-refill option reduces waste and cost
- Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested
- Minimal, clean ingredient list (only 13)
- Glass bottle packaging is recyclable
❌ Criticized
- Can cause tingling or mild irritation initially
- Not suitable for very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- Requires consistent sunscreen use
- 30ml bottle may not last long with daily use
- Limited availability outside Europe
- Simple packaging lacks luxury feel
- No airless pump to protect formula
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Lower 7% concentration in toner format (240ml). Contains Tasmanian Pepperberry for soothing. More product per dollar but less concentrated.
Same 10% concentration, also French-made. Includes mastic tree extract for pore-tightening. Nearly identical formula approach and price point.
Gentler lactic acid (larger molecules) at same 10% strength. Better for sensitive skin. Includes hyaluronic acid but misses fruit acid complex.
7% glycolic acid with apple water. K-beauty formula is fungal acne safe. Slightly gentler concentration, different botanical approach.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Aroma-Zone Glycolic 10% (This Product)
~$9The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%
$12Typology Glycolic Acid 10%
$15Paula's Choice 8% AHA Gel
$35📦 Storage & Shelf Life
6 months after opening. Mark opening date on bottle for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed between uses.
Reusable glass bottle with dropper pipette. Eco-refill pouch available for sustainable repurchasing.
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle—pack carefully in toiletry bag.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Pregnancy: Use with caution. While ACOG considers topical glycolic acid at 10% or less generally safe, limited human studies exist. The minimal systemic absorption suggests low risk, but consult your healthcare provider before use. Avoid professional-strength peels during pregnancy. Breastfeeding: Considered safe according to the LactMed database. Glycolic acid is unlikely to be appreciably absorbed or appear in breastmilk. Avoid applying to areas that may come in direct contact with infant's skin.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no oils, fatty acids, esters, ferments, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. All 13 ingredients are safe for fungal acne-prone skin. Glycolic acid can actually help by exfoliating and keeping pores clear, reducing the environment where fungal acne thrives.
Retinol: Do not use in the same routine. Alternate nights (glycolic one night, retinol the next) to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. Vitamin C: Can be used, but in separate routines—vitamin C in AM, glycolic acid in PM. Other AHAs/BHAs: Avoid layering multiple acids in one routine. This serum already contains a multi-AHA complex. Using additional acids significantly increases irritation risk.
This serum is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types seeking exfoliation, brightening, and pore refinement. It also works well for dry skin (glycolic acid hydrates by stimulating HA production), but follow with rich moisturizer. Those with sensitive, rosacea-prone, or reactive skin should start with lower concentrations (5-7%) or patch test carefully before full use.
Most users notice smoother skin texture within 1-2 weeks. Visible brightness and more even tone typically appear by weeks 2-4. Significant improvement in dark spots, acne scars, and fine lines usually requires 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Optimal, cumulative results (including collagen-building benefits) are seen at 8-12 weeks. Clinical testing showed 90% of users reported clearer, more unified complexion after 28 days.
Use in your PM routine only, after cleansing and toning. Apply to clean, dry skin before heavier serums or moisturizers. The order is: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner (optional), 3) This Serum, 4) Other serums, 5) Moisturizer, 6) Face oil (optional). In the morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
No, this serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients. In fact, glycolic acid actively helps unclog pores by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. The formula is specifically designed to refine pores and reduce blackheads, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 6 months. With the 30ml bottle and typical usage of 3-4 drops per application, expect 2-3 months of product with nightly use, or 4-5 months with every-other-night use. The formula contains natural preservatives (levulinic acid, sodium levulinate). Store away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain stability.
Verdict: The Aroma-Zone Sérum Visage Concentré Acide Glycolique 10% & AHA delivers exceptional value as a French pharmacy glycolic acid serum. Its 10% concentration provides powerful yet balanced exfoliation, while the multi-fruit AHA complex and hyaluronic acid create a comprehensive formula that brightens, smooths, and hydrates. The 100% natural-origin, fragrance-free, fungal-acne-safe formulation makes it accessible to most skin types. While sensitive skin may need to proceed cautiously, this award-winning serum (Best Aroma-Zone Product 2023) offers professional-grade results at a fraction of luxury brand prices. The eco-refill option adds sustainable appeal. A smart choice for anyone seeking effective, clean chemical exfoliation.
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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 0 |
Salix Nigra Bark Extract
Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|

