Tingl Exfoliating Pads
Tingl Exfoliating Pads
Product Description
DRMTLGY tingl Exfoliating Pads are a derm-grade, 3-in-1 treatment that cleanses, tones and resurfaces skin in a single swipe. Each of the 60 pre-soaked pads delivers a 12% acid blend β 5% Glycolic Acid, 5% Lactic Acid and 2% Salicylic Acid β to unclog pores, smooth uneven texture, fade dark spots and control excess oil, finished with cucumber, grapefruit, chamomile and aloe to keep things comfortable. The signature cool "tingl" is your cue that it's working. Made in the USA and safe for both face and body.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
5% Glycolic + 5% Lactic + 2% Salicylic resurface the skin's surface and clear inside pores in a single step.
Pore & Blackhead Control
Oil-soluble salicylic acid dives into pores to dissolve sebum, blackheads and everyday congestion.
Soothing Botanicals
Aloe, cucumber, chamomile, allantoin and licorice root buffer the acids to help calm sting and redness.
Face & Body Multitasker
Tackles facial dullness plus body acne, keratosis pilaris, razor bumps and ingrown hairs with one pad.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
AHAs increase UV sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential while using this product and for about a week afterward.
Contains 2% salicylic acid (BHA). Low-concentration topical use is generally considered low-risk, but confirm with your OB/GYN first.
Not fungal-acne safe β caprylic/capric triglyceride and PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil can feed malassezia.
Don't use in the same routine as retinol, vitamin C or other strong acids. Alternate days, or use pads in the AM and retinol at night.
The acid blend plus menthyl lactate and grapefruit can sting reactive skin. Patch test first and start 2β3x weekly.
Preserved with methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone, known contact allergens for some β stop use if irritation develops.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧫠Salicylic Acid 2% Proven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates into pores to clear out sebum and buildup, control oil and calm inflammation β the key player for blackheads and breakouts.
- FDA: Recognized at 0.5β2% as an over-the-counter acne active.
- Mechanism: Oil-solubility lets it work inside pores, unlike water-soluble AHAs.
- Bonus: Structurally related to aspirin, so it also soothes irritated, inflamed skin.
βοΈ Glycolic Acid 5% Proven
The most researched alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). Its tiny molecule dissolves the "glue" between dead surface cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin and boosting radiance.
- Collagen: Studies show glycolic acid stimulates collagen production over time.
- Penetration: Smallest AHA molecule, so it works effectively but can irritate sensitive skin.
- Hydration: Helps the skin produce molecules that raise natural hyaluronic acid levels.
π₯ Lactic Acid 5% Proven
A gentler AHA that exfoliates the surface while doubling as a humectant, drawing water into skin and supporting its natural moisturizing factor for a softer, more even tone.
- Gentler: Larger molecule than glycolic, so it's less likely to sting.
- Barrier: Research suggests it can boost ceramide production and support the skin microbiome.
- Hydration: Acts like the skin's own moisturizing factor (sodium lactate).
πΏ Soothing Botanical Complex Blend Promising
Aloe, cucumber fruit extract, chamomile, allantoin, beta-glucan and dipotassium glycyrrhizate (licorice root) are added to hydrate, calm and buffer the acids so the formula stays comfortable.
- Allantoin & licorice: Help restore the barrier, calm inflammation and ease post-acne marks.
- Aloe & beta-glucan: Antioxidant humectants that soothe and lock in moisture.
- Chamomile & cucumber: Anti-inflammatory extracts that refresh and reduce redness.
βοΈ Menthyl Lactate & Grapefruit Sensory Promising
Menthyl lactate (a milder menthol ester) and citrus grandis peel extract create the signature cooling "tingl" and light scent that signal the pad is active on your skin.
- Cooling agent: Menthyl lactate gives a menthol-like refresh with less harshness.
- Fragrance: Grapefruit peel acts as a natural scent; this is not a fragrance-free formula.
21 ingredients
Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid 2%, Glycolic Acid 5%, Lactic Acid 5%. Inactive Ingredients: Water (Deionized Water), Ethoxydiglycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Beta-Glucan, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Menthyl Lactate, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use on clean, dry skin right after cleansing and before serums and moisturizer. Great in the AM with sunscreen, or at night on evenings you skip retinol. Start 2β3x per week and build up as your skin tolerates it.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Dry
Wash your face and pat it completely dry before reaching for a pad.
Swipe Gently
Wipe one pad over the face (or body) in light circular motions, avoiding the eyes and lips.
Don't Rinse
Leave the solution on and let it absorb β no rinsing needed. Reseal the jar to keep pads moist.
Hydrate & Protect
Follow with moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+. Begin 2β3x weekly, then increase to daily or twice daily as tolerated.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin
- You want a fast, one-step AHA + BHA exfoliant
- You deal with blackheads, congestion or enlarged pores
- You want a face and body treatment (KP, body acne, ingrowns)
- You enjoy a cooling, active sensation
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry, reactive or barrier-compromised skin
- You're specifically treating fungal/malassezia acne
- You use daily retinoids or strong acids and don't want to alternate
- You need a fragrance-free, MCI/MI-free formula
- You want a gentle, PHA-only beginner exfoliant
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Cuts through excess oil and unclogs pores without leaving heavy residue.
Balances oily zones while the humectants keep drier areas comfortable.
BHA clears pores and AHAs smooth post-acne texture and marks. Note: not fungal-acne safe.
Great for periodic resurfacing; a few times a week is plenty to keep skin smooth.
Effective but can sting or over-dry. Use sparingly with a rich moisturizer, or pick a milder acid.
π Results Timeline
Cool Tingle & Smoother Feel
Skin feels cleaner and softer right after the first swipe; a mild tingling sensation is normal and expected.
Felt immediatelyBrighter, Less Congested
Pores look clearer, blackheads start to reduce and the complexion appears more radiant with regular use.
Most users noticeSmoother Texture & Tone
Fine lines soften, dark spots begin to fade and overall texture evens out with consistent use.
Best visible resultsRefined, Even Complexion
Sustained use maintains clear pores and a smoother, more luminous-looking finish over the long term.
With routine useβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Visibly smoother, brighter, more refined skin with consistent use
- Noticeably clears blackheads and congestion
- Convenient, no-mess one-step pads for face and body
- Cooling "tingl" feels active and refreshing
- Strong value for derm-grade actives; FSA/HSA eligible
β Criticized
- Can sting or feel harsh on sensitive or dry skin
- Pads dry out if the jar isn't resealed tightly
- Not fragrance-free; mild scent disliked by some
- Not fungal-acne safe; uses MCI/MI preservatives
- Oil control underwhelming for a few users; pads feel large
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
AHA pads with glycolic acid plus hyaluronic acid β gentler and more hydrating, but no salicylic BHA for deep pore-clearing.
A liquid (not pads) AHA toner with strong glycolic exfoliation, but no BHA and no salicylic acid for inside-the-pore action.
BHA-only pads that clear pores and blackheads at a fraction of the price β but no AHA resurfacing and no soothing botanicals.
π Comparison with Competitors
DRMTLGY tingl Pads (Featured)
$38.00Cane + Austin Retexture Pads
$48.00Stridex Maximum Strength
$6.00Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel
$92.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the lid tightly sealed so the pads stay saturated.
Screw-top jar containing 60 pre-soaked pads
Yes β TSA-friendly jar, well under 100ml of solution.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. These pads contain 2% salicylic acid (a BHA) along with glycolic and lactic acids. Low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy, and AHAs are usually viewed as safe, but because this is a leave-on acid blend the safest approach is to confirm with your OB/GYN before using it while pregnant or breastfeeding.
No. The formula contains caprylic/capric triglyceride and PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast. If you're specifically managing fungal acne, this product is not recommended; a salicylic-acid-only option without esters or fatty oils would be a safer choice.
Not in the same routine. These pads already deliver three acids (AHA + BHA), so stacking more exfoliants, retinol or vitamin C in one sitting risks over-exfoliation and irritation. DRMTLGY recommends alternating days, or using the pads in the morning and your retinol/tretinoin at night.
It performs best on oily, combination and acne-prone skin that wants clearer pores and smoother texture. Normal skin can use it periodically. Very dry, sensitive or barrier-compromised skin should approach with caution, patch test, and start at a low frequency, since the acids plus the cooling agent can sting.
You'll feel smoother, cleaner skin and the signature cooling tingle from day one. Most people notice clearer pores and a brighter look within 1β2 weeks, with smoother texture and fading dark spots typically becoming visible around 4β6 weeks of consistent use.
Use it on clean, dry skin right after cleansing and before serums and moisturizer. It works well in the morning followed by sunscreen, or at night on evenings you aren't using retinol. Don't rinse it off, and always follow with SPF 30+ in the daytime.
It rates low on the comedogenic scale (around 1/5) and is actually designed to unclog pores rather than block them. The salicylic acid clears congestion, so it's considered non-comedogenic for most users β though, again, it is not suitable for fungal acne.
Plan on about 12 months after opening. To preserve potency, store the jar in a cool, dry spot and reseal the lid tightly after each use β the most common complaint is pads drying out when the jar is left open. A jar of 60 pads typically lasts 1β2 months depending on how often you use them.
Verdict: DRMTLGY's tingl pads pack a genuinely effective 12% AHA/BHA blend into a fuss-free, made-in-USA pad β outstanding value for oily, combination and acne-prone skin chasing clearer pores and smoother texture. The trade-offs are real: it can be too active for very dry or sensitive skin, it isn't fungal-acne safe, and it relies on MCI/MI preservatives plus a light citrus fragrance. Respect the daily sunscreen rule and ease in slowly, and it's one of the best-value resurfacing pads you can buy.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|