Exfoliating serums are gaining popularity as an essential daily skincare step for many people. These products help remove dead skin cells, brighten dull faces, and improve overall skin texture at a relatively affordable price.
Many Indonesians are now in search of exfoliating face serums that are not only effective but also budget-friendly, starting from as low as Rp40,000. Several trusted skin experts, including Dr. Dia Febrina, Sp.D.V.E., emphasize the importance of choosing exfoliating serums based on skin tolerance and needs. Most exfoliating serums utilize ingredients like Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA). These active acids work together to gently exfoliate the skin and support a smoother, more radiant complexion.
How Exfoliating Serums Work
Exfoliating serums typically come in a lightweight, water-based formula making them easy for the skin to absorb. This lightweight nature reduces the risk of irritation, especially for beginners or those with sensitive skin. Daily use of water-based exfoliating serums is considered safe, even for people whose skin is prone to redness or discomfort.
Experts highlight that while water-based serums are gentler, oil-based serums might provide more dramatic results for advanced users. However, for most daily skincare routines, especially for those just starting, water-based variants are more suitable due to their milder action.
The key functions of these serums include dissolving built-up dead skin, evening out skin tone, and reducing enlarged pores. Through these mechanisms, exfoliating serums not only address rough textures but also help control excess sebum and reduce frequent breakouts.
Top 5 Recommended Exfoliating Face Serums Starting from Rp40,000
Here are five highly recommended face exfoliating serums, selected based on dermatologist recommendations, user reviews, ingredient transparency, and budget-friendly pricing:
-
Garnier – Tri Acid Renew Peeling Exfoliating Serum
- Price: Rp73,000
- Highlights: Contains a blend of 10% AHA, BHA, and PHA combined with 5% niacinamide. Clinical tests indicate it can improve the skin barrier within four hours without drying the skin. This product excels at removing dead cells, evening skin tone, and tightening pores. The formula is gentle enough for daily use, making it suitable even for sensitive skin.
-
SOMETHINC – AHA BHA PH
- Price: Rp60,000
- Highlights: Well-suited for newcomers to chemical exfoliation because of its gentle formulation. It utilizes niacinamide for oil control and skin brightening. The serum’s combination of AHA, BHA, and PHA ensures soft exfoliation, while hibiscus sabdariffa extract helps to maintain youthful firmness.
-
The Originote – B5 Peeling Solution
- Price: Rp41,000
- Highlights: This serum addresses uneven skin tone and rough texture with its mix of AHA, BHA, and PHA. Panthenol is included to soothe potential irritation after exfoliation. It promotes faster skin renewal, leading to smoother, more luminous skin. Dermatologists suggest applying it once or twice weekly at night, always followed by moisturizer.
-
Y.O.U – 6% Acid Renewal Peeling Serum
- Price: Rp68,000
- Highlights: Features 6% AHA, BHA, and PHA to exfoliate gently and regulate excessive oil. Enhanced with five times the usual amount of Centella Asiatica and seven herbal extracts, it effectively soothes acne-prone skin and strengthens the skin barrier. Four kinds of hyaluronic acid provide multi-level hydration. The product works within sixty seconds and does not cause tingling, making it suitable for sensitive skin and beginners.
- Glad2Glow AHA BHA PHA Intensive Peeling Solution
- Price: Rp44,000
- Highlights: This exfoliating serum is effective against recurring acne, blackheads, and congestion. Its intensive formula combines AHA, BHA, and PHA to brighten the skin and smooth rough facial textures gradually. The product works over time to encourage clearer, healthier-looking skin.
Comparison Table of Exfoliating Serums
| Product Name | Feature Highlights | Exfoliant Actives | Price | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garnier Tri Acid Renew Peeling Exfoliating Serum | Fast repair (4h), repairs skin barrier | AHA, BHA, PHA, Niacinamide | Rp73,000 | Daily use, sensitive skin |
| SOMETHINC AHA BHA PH | Gentle, oil control, brightens | AHA, BHA, PHA, Niacinamide | Rp60,000 | Beginners, oily skin |
| The Originote B5 Peeling Solution | Soothing panthenol, improves texture | AHA, BHA, PHA, Panthenol | Rp41,000 | Weekly use, all skin |
| Y.O.U 6% Acid Renewal Peeling Serum | Multi-herbal, fast acting, hydrates | AHA, BHA, PHA, Centella, HA | Rp68,000 | Sensitive, acne-prone |
| Glad2Glow AHA BHA PHA Intensive Peeling Solution | Reduces acne, brightens, deep exfoliation | AHA, BHA, PHA | Rp44,000 | Acne-prone, rough skin |
Expert Tips for Using Exfoliating Serums
Dermatologists advise starting with a lower concentration and less frequent application when trying exfoliating serums for the first time. Always apply sunscreen the next morning since exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to sun damage. Listen to your skin’s response—reduce usage if you experience redness or excessive dryness.
For best results, always follow these steps:
- Cleanse your face.
- Apply exfoliating serum to dry skin.
- Wait a few minutes to absorb.
- Follow with moisturizer.
- Use sunscreen during the day.
Why These Exfoliating Serums Are Worth Considering
Products in this price range, starting from only Rp40,000, show that good-quality facial exfoliation is accessible for many. With transparent ingredient lists and dermatologist support, users can feel safer making informed decisions. Innovations in formula and safety standards also ensure that even beginners and those with sensitive skin can experience the benefits of regular exfoliation.
Properly chosen exfoliating serums can help brighten skin tone, clear up blemishes, minimize enlarged pores, and keep the face looking healthy and fresh. These affordable recommendations make it easier for more people to enjoy effective skincare with scientifically proven results.
