A gentle nightly exfoliating treatment formulated with a synergistic blend of AHAs, soothing Licorice Root, and essential Ceramides to smooth skin texture without disrupting the moisture barrier.
This serum features a sophisticated balance of exfoliation and barrier repair. The primary actives appear to be Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), which accelerate cell turnover and smooth skin texture. What makes this formula excellent is the inclusion of the “golden ratio” of lipids: Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP), Cholesterol, and Phytosphingosine. This lipid complex mitigates the irritation often caused by acids. Additionally, Phenylethyl Resorcinol serves as a potent antioxidant and skin-brightening agent to target hyperpigmentation, while Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root) provides soothing anti-inflammatory benefits.
The formula is Fragrance-Free, reducing the risk of contact dermatitis. However, because it contains AHAs (Glycolic and Lactic Acid), it presents a risk of stinging, irritation, and increased sun sensitivity, requiring the use of SPF during the day. Users with acne-prone skin should note the presence of Isopropyl Myristate, a synthetic oil known to be relatively comedogenic (pore-clogging), although the exfoliating acids in the formula may help counteract this effect.
This is a highly effective, scientifically sound formulation that likely belongs to a dermatologist-developed brand (resembling CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment). It cleverly solves the common problem of chemical exfoliation—barrier disruption—by fortifying the skin with essential ceramides. It is an excellent choice for anti-aging and texture improvement, though the inclusion of pore-clogging emollients prevents a perfect score for oily/acne-prone skin types.
This product represents a highly sophisticated approach to chemical exfoliation, prioritizing long-term skin health alongside surface renewal. The formulation is anchored by a blend of Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid, two alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that are effective at dissolving the bonds holding dead skin cells together. By promoting cell turnover, this serum helps to reveal fresher, brighter skin underneath, addressing common concerns such as dullness, fine lines, and rough texture. Unlike aggressive acid peels that strip the skin, this product buffers the exfoliating activity with a rich, hydrating base. The inclusion of Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, an extract from Licorice Root, is a strategic addition. It serves as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, working to mitigate the stinging or redness often associated with acid use. Furthermore, the presence of Phenylethyl Resorcinol, a brightening antioxidant, works in tandem with the exfoliants to target hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone. What effectively differentiates this serum from generic AHA products is its focus on barrier reinforcement. It is packed with a complex of three essential ceramides (Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP), Cholesterol, and Phytosphingosine. These lipid-identical ingredients ensure that while the acids exfoliate, the skin’s protective barrier is immediately replenished. This prevents the dehydration and sensitivity that typically accompany daily exfoliation. Additionally, Sodium Hyaluronate and Glycerin provide deep hydration, ensuring the skin remains plump and comfortable. The texture benefits from Dimethicone and fatty alcohols like Cetearyl Alcohol, creating a silky, non-sticky finish that layers well under moisturizers. However, users must be diligent about applying sunscreen daily, as AHAs significantly increase sun sensitivity. Overall, this is an exceptional choice for those wanting the anti-aging benefits of acids with the safety net of barrier-repairing lipids.
🧪 GLYCOLIC ACID / 乙醇酸
Purpose: Exfoliant (Alpha Hydroxy Acid)
Concerns: Can cause skin sensitivity and increased sun sensitivity; potential irritation for sensitive skin.
Notes: A small molecular weight AHA that penetrates deeply to remove dead skin cells and improve texture.
🧪 LACTIC ACID / 乳酸
Purpose: Exfoliant, Humectant
Concerns: May cause stinging on damaged skin, though generally gentler than glycolic acid.
Notes: An AHA that exfoliates while also hydrating the skin.
🧪 CITRIC ACID / 柠檬酸
Purpose: pH Adjuster, Exfoliant
Concerns: Can be irritating in high concentrations.
Notes: Primarily used to adjust the pH of the formula, but has mild exfoliating properties.
🧪 CERAMIDE NP / 神经酰胺 NP
Purpose: Skin-identical ingredient, Barrier Repair
Concerns: None.
Notes: Reinforces the skin’s natural barrier and improves hydration.
🧪 CERAMIDE AP / 神经酰胺 AP
Purpose: Skin-identical ingredient, Barrier Repair
Concerns: None.
Notes: Works synergistically with other ceramides to protect skin.
🧪 CERAMIDE EOP / 神经酰胺 EOP
Purpose: Skin-identical ingredient, Barrier Repair
Concerns: None.
Notes: Essential for holding skin cells together to form a protective barrier.
🧪 CHOLESTEROL / 胆固醇
Purpose: Emollient, Barrier Repair
Concerns: None.
Notes: A critical lipid found naturally in the skin; works best when combined with ceramides and fatty acids.
🧪 PHYTOSPHINGOSINE / 植物鞘氨醇
Purpose: Skin-conditioning, Antimicrobial
Concerns: None.
Notes: A precursor to ceramides that helps restore the skin barrier and soothe inflammation.
🧪 SODIUM LAUROYL LACTYLATE / 月桂酰乳酰乳酸钠
Purpose: Emulsifier, Thickener
Concerns: None.
Notes: Often blended with ceramides to help them penetrate the skin.
🧪 GLYCERIN / 甘油
Purpose: Humectant
Concerns: None.
Notes: A highly effective ingredient for drawing moisture into the skin.
🧪 SODIUM HYALURONATE / 透明质酸钠
Purpose: Humectant
Concerns: None.
Notes: The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid; holds significant water content.
🧪 CETEARYL ALCOHOL / 鲸蜡硬脂醇
Purpose: Emollient, Texture Enhancer
Concerns: None.
Notes: A fatty alcohol that is non-drying and helps soften the skin.
🧪 DIMETHICONE / 聚二甲基硅氧烷
Purpose: Emollient, Occlusive
Concerns: Some users prefer to avoid silicones, though it is generally considered safe and breathable.
Notes: Provides a silky feel and prevents moisture loss.
🧪 CETEARYL ETHYLHEXANOATE / 鲸蜡硬脂酸乙基己酯
Purpose: Emollient
Concerns: None.
Notes: Provides a soft and spreadable texture.
🧪 ISOPROPYL MYRISTATE / 肉豆蔻酸异丙酯
Purpose: Emollient, Solvent
Concerns: Comedogenic (can clog pores) for some acne-prone individuals.
Notes: Enhances absorption of other ingredients.
🧪 CAPRYLYL GLYCOL / 辛甘醇
Purpose: Humectant, Preservative Booster
Concerns: None.
Notes: Conditions skin and helps preserve the product.
🧪 DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE / 甘草酸二钾
Purpose: Soothing, Anti-inflammatory
Concerns: None.
Notes: Derived from licorice root; helps reduce redness and sensitivity.
🧪 PHENYLETHYL RESORCINOL / 苯乙基间苯二酚
Purpose: Brightening, Antioxidant
Concerns: None.
Notes: Also known as SymWhite 377; effective for addressing hyperpigmentation.
🧪 AQUA / WATER / EAU / 水
Purpose: Solvent
Concerns: None.
Notes: The base of the formulation.
🧪 SODIUM HYDROXIDE / 氢氧化钠
Purpose: pH Adjuster
Concerns: Corrosive in raw form, but safe as used to neutralize acids.
Notes: Used to ensure the AHAs are at a safe and effective pH level.
🧪 POLYACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER-6 / 聚丙烯酸酯交联聚合物-6
Purpose: Texture Enhancer, Thickener
Concerns: None.
Notes: Stabilizes the formula and provides a pleasant texture.
🧪 CARBOMER / 卡波姆
Purpose: Thickener
Concerns: None.
Notes: Creates a gel-like consistency.
🧪 CETEARYL GLUCOSIDE / 鲸蜡硬脂基葡糖苷
Purpose: Emulsifier
Concerns: None.
Notes: Helps mix oil and water phases.
🧪 BEHENTRIMONIUM METHOSULFATE / 山嵛基三甲基硫酸甲酯铵
Purpose: Emulsifier, Conditioning Agent
Concerns: None.
Notes: Gentle emulsifier often used in products for sensitive skin.
🧪 TRIETHYL CITRATE / 柠檬酸三乙酯
Purpose: Solvent, Stabilizer
Concerns: None.
Notes: Helps stabilize active ingredients.
🧪 PHENOXYETHANOL / 苯氧乙醇
Purpose: Preservative
Concerns: Rarely irritating to very sensitive skin.
Notes: Broad-spectrum preservative.
🧪 TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE / 乙二胺二琥珀酸三钠
Purpose: Chelating Agent
Concerns: None.
Notes: Neutralizes metal ions in water to prevent spoilage.
🧪 XANTHAN GUM / 黄原胶
Purpose: Thickener
Concerns: None.
Notes: Natural thickener and stabilizer.
🧪 BENZOIC ACID / 苯甲酸
Purpose: Preservative
Concerns: None.
Notes: Prevents fungal growth.