This liquid exfoliator with a whopping 25% AHA/BHA complex promises a "quickie liquid facial" that resurfaces and unclogs skin. Does it actually work? I tried Moon Juice Acid Potion, and this is my honest review.
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Why You Need An Exfoliator
If you've got dull, rough skin, poor cell turnover might be the culprit. As we age, our skin cell turnover naturally slows down, making skin dull as the dead skin hangs on (and can even clog pores!). Using a chemical exfoliator, such as an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) can help break down those dead skin cells and increase turnover without physical scrubbing, revealing fresh, radiant skin underneath.
Meet the Product: Moon Juice Acid Potion
What It Is: A liquid exfoliator made with Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Salicylic Acid to resurface skin and unclog pores.
What It Claims: "A quickie facial, our potent 25% AHA + BHA complex combines Glycolic Acid to break down dead cells and gluey dirt and help stimulate collagen production, Lactic Acid to help encourage cellular turnover, and Salicylic Acid (derived from Willow Bark) to help penetrate and unclog pores. Niacinamide (B3) and adaptogenic Reishi are the magic, helping to hydrate and restore the barrier while soothing irritation." - Moon Juice Website
Moon Juice Acid Potion: My Honest Review
Ingredients: 9/10
Formulated without parabens, petroleum, pesticides, propylene or butylene glycols, phthalates, sulfates, PEGs, and silicones. The salicylic acid is naturally derived from willow bark extract. Bonus points for skin-loving Niacinamide and Reishi to soothe and nourish the skin barrier.
Experience: 3/10
Initially I liked using the exfoliator. You're supposed to apply it by pressing a small amount on with your hands. A small opening in the top lets only a tiny bit escape at a time - less waste from cotton balls and using too much product! However, I found that the acids in the product made my hands peel. The smell of the product is pleasant and it does give you a nice tingle when you apply it, but if you've got sensitive skin or any cuts or tears, it may sting. It also left my face feeling tacky, which I didn't enjoy. After a few uses, the coating on the cap started to deteriorate, leaving tiny chips of white paint-like material all over the place, including my face. Not good!
Performance: 4/10
I had high hopes for a product with such a high concentration of AHAs/BHAs. I was hoping that the unpleasant experience of applying it would pay off in radiant skin, but it just didn't work out that way for me. It seems the acids were too strong - I ended up with red, irritated skin around my mouth and nose. After a few uses, my skin didn't seem any clearer or glowy, I just had peeling skin.
Value: 7/10
IF you love the product, the value is good. You use such a tiny amount that the bottle seems to last forever. However, it isn't inexpensive, so if you end up not using it, it's a waste of money. Luckily, I purchased it from Credo, which has a great return/refund policy, and they were wonderful.
Overall: 5.75/10
Overall Impressions
I really wanted to love Moon Juice Acid Potion. I typically have great results with AHA exfoliators, and I don't have particularly sensitive skin when it comes to skincare products. However, this one seemed to be just too strong for my skin and the fact that the cap deteriorated and left little white specs all over the place was the final decision factor to toss it. There are plenty of rave reviews on the website, so it may work better for you. If you have sensitive skin, I'd probably pass. If you want to check it out for yourself, you can buy it at the link below.
Buy It: Moon Juice Acid Potion Liquid Exfoliator
- Reviewer Stats
- Age: 30s
- Hair Type: Oily + Color Treated
- Skin Type: Oily/Combo
- Concern: Breakouts + Preventing fine lines
