T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A high-tech 12% AHA/BHA gel serum that resurfaces dull, congested skin overnight. This potent blend of glycolic, lactic, tartaric, citric, and salicylic acids dramatically improves the look of pores, texture, blemishes, and fine lines while minimizing excess oiliness for a smoother, clearer complexion.
Multi-Acid Exfoliation
Proprietary T.L.C. blend combines glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acids for comprehensive surface exfoliation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMulti-Acid Exfoliation
Proprietary T.L.C. blend combines glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acids for comprehensive surface exfoliation.
Pore-Clearing BHA
1% salicylic acid penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and prevent congestion and breakouts.
Antioxidant Protection
Raspberry fruit extract, grape juice, and green tea provide antioxidant defense and soothe skin.
Hydration Support
Sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer and aloe vera help maintain hydration while acids work.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% salicylic acid. While the brand states it's generally considered safe, many dermatologists recommend caution. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil (Marula Oil) which may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ daily while using this product and for one week after discontinuing.
Do not use with retinol in the same routine. Alternate nights or use on different days to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid ~8%Gold Standard
The smallest AHA molecule, glycolic acid penetrates deeply to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin underneath. It also stimulates collagen production over time.
- Molecular Weight: 76 Da - smallest AHA for deepest penetration
- Research: Proven to reduce wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and improve skin texture
- Optimal pH: 3.5 (this product) falls in the effective range of 3-4
Lactic Acid ~1-2%Gentle AHA
A gentler AHA that exfoliates while also acting as a humectant to attract moisture. Derived from milk but can be synthetically produced for vegan formulas.
- Dual Action: Exfoliates while hydrating skin
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide production for stronger skin barrier
- Gentler: Larger molecule size means less irritation than glycolic
Salicylic Acid (BHA) 1%Pore Clearer
The only BHA in the formula, salicylic acid is oil-soluble and penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, blackheads, and prevent acne formation.
- Oil-Soluble: Penetrates through sebum into pores unlike AHAs
- Anti-Inflammatory: Related to aspirin, helps calm redness and irritation
- FDA Approved: Recognized acne treatment at 0.5-2% concentrations
Tartaric & Citric Acids <1%Supporting AHAs
These fruit-derived AHAs work synergistically with glycolic and lactic acids to enhance exfoliation and brighten skin. They also help stabilize the formula's pH.
- Tartaric Acid: From grapes, provides antioxidant benefits alongside exfoliation
- Citric Acid: pH adjuster that contributes mild exfoliating properties
Raspberry Fruit ExtractAntioxidant
Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, raspberry extract soothes skin while providing protection against environmental stressors. Named "Framboos" (French for raspberry) in the product title.
- Soothing: Helps calm skin irritation from acid exfoliation
- Antioxidant: Protects against free radical damage
36 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycolic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Juice Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Buddleja Davidii Meristem Cell Culture, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Allantoin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Galactoarabinan, Propanediol, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Xanthan Gum, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Chloride, Disodium Phosphate, Sodium Phosphate, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPM only. Apply to clean, dry skin. Wait 1-2 minutes before layering other products. Drunk Elephant recommends mixing with Virgin Marula Oil for added hydration.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with completely clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and sunscreen. Pat face dry - applying to damp skin can increase irritation.
Apply 1 Pump
Dispense one pump into your palm. One pump is enough for entire face. Gently spread across face, avoiding eye area and lips.
Wait & Layer
Allow serum to absorb for 1-2 minutes. Slight tingling is normal, especially in the first weeks. Follow with moisturizer or facial oil.
Build Tolerance
Start with every other night for 2-4 weeks. Gradually increase to nightly use as tolerated. Reduce frequency if irritation occurs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, congested skin that needs resurfacing
- You struggle with blackheads, clogged pores, or texture
- You want to reduce the appearance of fine lines
- You have oily or combination skin with excess sebum
- You're experienced with chemical exfoliants
- You want a multi-acid approach in one product
Consider alternatives if:
- You're new to acids and haven't built tolerance
- You have very sensitive skin or active rosacea
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor)
- You have fungal acne (contains marula oil)
- You're already using retinoids nightly
- You're on a tight budget ($90 for 1oz is steep)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Controls sebum, unclogs pores, and mattifies without over-drying. Can typically use 4-5x per week once acclimated.
Great for T-zone congestion while not overly stripping drier cheeks. Use 2-3x weekly and focus on oily areas.
Works well for maintenance and glow. Start with 1-2x weekly and adjust based on skin response.
Use sparingly (1x weekly max). Mix with Marula Oil to buffer. Follow with rich moisturizer. May cause flaking initially.
Proceed with caution. Patch test first. Start once weekly. May need to buffer with oil. Consider gentler alternatives like lactic acid only.
Helps with congestion and post-inflammatory marks. Note: contains marula oil which may trigger some. Monitor skin closely.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Initial Adjustment
Skin may tingle upon application. Some users experience mild purging as congestion comes to the surface. Skin starts to feel smoother to the touch.
85% noticed immediate smoothnessVisible Improvements
Brighter, more radiant complexion becomes noticeable. Pores appear smaller. Blackheads and surface texture start diminishing. Morning skin looks refreshed.
78% saw improved skin textureSignificant Changes
Fine lines appear softer. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation start fading. Skin tone becomes more even. Breakouts less frequent for many users.
70% reported reduced blemishesLong-Term Benefits
Cumulative collagen-stimulating effects become visible. Skin appears firmer and more youthful. Continued maintenance of clear, glowing complexion.
65% saw anti-aging improvementsRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dramatically improves skin texture overnight
- Visibly minimizes pores and blackheads
- Multi-acid formula for comprehensive exfoliation
- Clean, fragrance-free formulation
- Effective at pH 3.5 for optimal acid activity
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly
- Airless pump preserves product integrity
- Works well mixed with Virgin Marula Oil
Criticized
- Very expensive at $90 for 1oz / $134 for 1.69oz
- Can cause stinging, especially initially
- May trigger purging in first few weeks
- Not fungal acne safe (contains marula oil)
- Too strong for some sensitive skin types
- Bulky packaging not ideal for travel
- Similar results possible with cheaper alternatives
- Pregnancy safety is debated due to salicylic acid
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical concept with AHAs + salicylic acid. Transparent about percentages (10% glycolic, 0.5% salicylic). Missing some botanical extracts but delivers similar exfoliation at 1/15th the price.
Same 10% AHA + 1% BHA combination with added peptides and antioxidants. Proven brand with excellent research backing. More affordable at similar efficacy level.
Much higher acid concentration (30% vs 12%), so it's a wash-off treatment, not leave-on. More intense but used weekly vs nightly. Incredibly affordable but requires more caution.
Similar multi-acid approach with added honey for hydration. Gentler formula that may suit sensitive skin better. Also clean beauty focused with quality botanicals.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDET.L.C. Framboos
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the open jar symbol on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Room temperature is fine, but refrigeration can extend freshness.
Airless pump in opaque bottle. Protects formula from oxidation and contamination. Twist-up mechanism for hygienic dispensing.
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. However, the bottle is somewhat bulky. Do not transfer to another container as air exposure degrades the formula.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains 1% salicylic acid, which some healthcare providers recommend avoiding during pregnancy. Drunk Elephant states it's "generally considered safe" at this low percentage, but opinions vary among dermatologists. The glycolic and lactic acids are typically considered safe topically during pregnancy. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil (Marula Oil), which is a fatty acid-rich oil that can feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid or The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toning Solution, which are fungal acne safe.
Drunk Elephant recommends NOT using two potent chemical exfoliants at the same time. Do not layer this with other AHA/BHA products or retinol in the same routine. Alternate nights instead: use Framboos one night, retinol the next. Vitamin C can be used in the morning while Framboos is used at night. If you experience irritation, reduce frequency of both products.
This serum works best for oily and combination skin types, as it controls sebum and unclogs pores effectively. It's also excellent for those with congested skin, blackheads, textural issues, and dullness. Those with normal skin can use it for maintenance and glow. Dry and sensitive skin types should use sparingly (1x weekly max) and consider buffering with oil.
Many users notice smoother skin after the first use. Visible brightness and texture improvements typically appear within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Pore reduction and acne clearing may take 4-8 weeks. Anti-aging benefits like reduced fine lines require 2-3+ months of regular use. Some users experience purging in the first 2-4 weeks as congestion rises to the surface.
Apply at night only, after cleansing and before other serums/moisturizers. Use on clean, completely dry skin. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying the next product. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Framboos → Hydrating Serum → Facial Oil → Moisturizer. Drunk Elephant suggests mixing with their Virgin Marula Oil if you experience dryness or irritation.
T.L.C. Framboos has a low comedogenic rating (1/5) and is designed to actually unclog pores, not block them. The formula is primarily water-based with exfoliating acids that dissolve pore blockages. The only potentially comedogenic ingredient is the small amount of Marula Oil, which rates 3-4 on the comedogenic scale. Most users find it helps clear pores, but everyone's skin is different—patch test if concerned.
T.L.C. Framboos has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). Look for the open jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" inside. Unopened, Drunk Elephant products have a 3-year shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. The airless pump helps preserve the formula's integrity longer than traditional packaging. Don't transfer to another container.
Verdict: T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum is a genuinely effective, well-formulated chemical exfoliant that delivers visible results for texture, pores, and dullness. The multi-acid approach at an optimal pH makes it stand out, and the clean, fragrance-free formula suits most skin types. However, the steep $90 price tag is hard to justify when nearly identical results can be achieved with products like Good Molecules ($6) or Paula's Choice ($39). Best for: Those who prefer luxury clean beauty and have tried/loved other Drunk Elephant products. Consider dupes if: You're budget-conscious or just want effective exfoliation without the premium price.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|