FAQs
Q1. What does iS Clinical Active Serum actually do for the skin?
A1. It works on three levels simultaneously: sugarcane-derived glycolic acid exfoliates dead cells to improve texture, willow bark-derived salicylate keeps pores clear of acne-causing debris, and arbutin inhibits tyrosinase to reduce dark spots at the source. Most users notice smoother skin within 2–3 weeks and visible spot fading by 6–8 weeks of daily use.
Q2. Is it suitable for Indian skin tones prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?
A2. Yes — and it's particularly effective for PIH, which is one of the most stubborn concerns for South Asian skin. Arbutin directly suppresses the enzyme responsible for excess melanin, so it works on both existing dark marks and prevents new ones from forming after breakouts heal.
Q3. How do I introduce it without triggering irritation?
A3. Apply 3–4 drops to clean, dry skin every other evening for the first two weeks. If there's no prolonged redness or tightness, move to daily evening use. Always follow with SPF 50+ the next morning — exfoliating actives increase UV sensitivity significantly.
Q4. Will I experience purging, and how do I tell it apart from a reaction?
A4. Some users see a brief purging phase in weeks 1–2, where pre-existing congestion surfaces faster than normal. Purging appears where you already break out and clears within 2–3 weeks. A genuine reaction — burning sensation, widespread redness — means stop immediately and consult a dermatologist.
Q5. Can I use it alongside retinol or niacinamide?
A5. Niacinamide pairs well and strengthens the brightening effect. With retinol, alternate evenings rather than layering both on the same night — use Active Serum three evenings a week and retinol on the other evenings. This avoids over-exfoliating the barrier.
Q6. How is this different from a standard glycolic acid toner?
A6. Most glycolic acid toners use a single acid at a set concentration and rinse off. Active Serum uses pH-buffered botanical acid precursors for more gradual, less irritating exfoliation, and includes arbutin for targeted pigmentation control — something no plain acid toner delivers.
Q7. Who should not use iS Clinical Active Serum?
A7. Avoid it during pregnancy unless cleared by your OB-GYN (plant-sourced salicylates are a standard caution). Also avoid during active eczema or rosacea flare-ups, immediately post-peel or post-laser, and on broken skin. If your skin is currently sensitised, start with iS Clinical Hydra-Cool Serum to rebuild the barrier first.