e.l.f. SKIN Triple-Acid Resurfacing Serum — 8.5% acids + 10% niacinamide, Hydrating Night Treatment for Blemish-Prone Skin

e.l.f. SKIN Blemish Breakthrough Triple-Acid Resurfacing Serum is an overnight, dermatologist-developed serum that combines a targeted 8.5% triple-acid complex with 10% niacinamide to help exfoliate, calm, and improve post-breakout tone and texture.

This lightweight night serum is formulated for blemish-prone and oily skin types that want gentle resurfacing without heavy irritation. It layers salicylic acid, PHA, and tranexamic acid to address congestion, surface texture, and discoloration while niacinamide helps regulate oil and soothe visible redness. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and vegan, the formula is designed to be used as part of your evening routine to support clearer-looking skin by morning.

How does this serum target breakouts and clogged pores?

The serum uses salicylic acid — a beta hydroxy acid — to penetrate oil-packed pores and help dissolve the debris that leads to pimples. PHAs provide gentle surface exfoliation for smoother skin, and tranexamic acid works on uneven tone that often follows breakouts. Together they reduce the appearance of congestion while supporting clearer-looking skin overnight.

• 8.5% Triple-Acid Complex: salicylic acid, PHA, tranexamic acid for multi-level exfoliation
• Targets congested pores and helps prevent future breakouts
• Non-comedogenic formula to avoid pore-clogging residues

Will this serum hydrate and calm skin while treating blemishes?

Yes — in addition to acids, the serum contains 10% niacinamide to help balance oil production and soothe inflammation. Niacinamide supports the skin barrier, which helps the skin tolerate active exfoliants more comfortably. The overall formulation aims to improve texture and tone without overly stripping or drying the skin overnight.

• 10% niacinamide to help control excess oil and reduce visible redness
• Hydrating support to maintain skin comfort during resurfacing
• Fragrance-free to minimize irritation risk

How should I incorporate this into my evening skincare routine?

Apply 3–5 drops to clean, dry skin in the evening, spreading evenly over areas of concern and allowing it to absorb before heavier creams. Start with every-other-night use if you’re new to acids, and increase frequency as tolerated. If irritation occurs, reduce application to alternate nights or mix into your moisturizer to buffer strength.

• Use 3–5 drops on clean skin each evening
• Begin with alternate-night use if you have sensitive skin
• Layer under moisturizer; always follow with sunscreen during daytime

Is this serum safe with other treatments like retinoids or vitamin C?

Mixing potent actives can increase irritation, so introduce combinations carefully. Alternate nights with retinoids or use vitamin C in the morning while using this serum at night. Consult patch testing and reduce frequency if your skin becomes reactive.

• Alternate nights with retinoids to minimize irritation
• Use sunscreen daily to protect exfoliated skin
• Patch test when combining with other strong actives

Who is this for: e.l.f. SKIN Blemish Breakthrough Triple-Acid Resurfacing Serum is formulated for oily, acne-prone, or congested skin types looking for a night-time resurfacing treatment that also addresses post-breakout discoloration. It suits users seeking a fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed option that balances exfoliation with calming niacinamide; beginners should introduce it gradually, while experienced active-users can incorporate it nightly as tolerated.

Ingredients

Water (Aqua), Niacinamide, Lactobionic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin