# AXIS-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Kingdom.

Brand: [AXIS-Y](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/axis-y)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for oily acne-prone skin; a few products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts, and oiliness or shiny skin due to the presence of gluconolactone and papaya fruit extract, which provide resurfacing benefits suitable for your oily skin.
- Gluconolactone's keratolytic action and glycerin's humectant action ensure high suitability for your oily skin, smoothing texture and balancing oil production.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High (this page)

## Key ingredients

Pha, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Gluconolactone, Centella Asiatica Extract

## What the research says

- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- Combining 10% gluconolactone chemical peeling with oxybrasion or microneedle mesotherapy increased skin hydration and decreased sebum, pH, and TEWL in twenty-one Caucasian women, with no significant differences between the two methods. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))
- Transgenic cucumber expressing poly-γ-glutamic acid synthesis genes increased water content by 6-14%, reduced water loss by 11-12%, decreased facial wrinkles and roughness by 19.58% and 24.97%, decreased skin melanin by 5.27%, and improved facial elasticity in human skin and zebrafish compared to controls. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38336313/))
- Copper Oxide nanoparticles synthesized using cucumber extract exhibited antibacterial, antifungal, UV protection, and reactive-oxygen species inhibition properties with low cellular toxicity and skin-rejuvenating effects when incorporated into skin cream. ([Endocrine, Metabolic & Immune Disorders Drug Targets, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628604/))
- Topical treatment with Holothuria parva extract gel showed significant wound contraction compared to the negative control in full-thickness wounded rats. ([The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34791922/))
- Gluconolactone and tartaric acid significantly lower transepidermal water loss and erythema after sodium lauryl sulphate challenge compared to vehicle, untreated control, and glycolic acid in healthy subjects. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/))
- A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provided antiaging benefits comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen while demonstrating enhanced mildness and better tolerance in subjects. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002657/))
- Gluconolactone treatment significantly increased facial skin hydration in 16 healthy women, with no significant differences between 10% and 30% solutions. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33769633/))
- Topical application of 0.05% w/w ECa 233 gel reduced erythema index by 0.03 U and improved early crusting and general wound appearance compared to placebo in thirty individuals undergoing facial laser resurfacing. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32310680/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical treatment with 5% vitamin C and 0.1% madecassoside significantly improved clinical scores for wrinkles, suppleness, firmness, roughness, and skin hydration, along with functional and structural remodeling of the elastic fiber network in 20 female volunteers with photoaged skin after 6 months compared to baseline. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this gel-type chemical exfoliant is highly recommended for sensitive and acne-prone skin, with users frequently reporting immediate improvements in skin texture and a radiant glow without irritation. While most users find it exceptionally gentle and effective for smoothing skin and providing hydration, a moderate number of users feel it may be too mild for deeper exfoliation needs.

- Liked: Extremely gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Instant glow (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Cooling gel texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating & plumping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too gentle for some (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Odd scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging design flaws (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slight drying effect (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant as part of your PM routine once a week to start, increasing frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but before your final moisturizer step.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product directly onto clean, dry skin for the best results against breakouts.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and always use a daily SPF since exfoliating makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes AXIS-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel a great fit for oily acne-prone skin?

AXIS-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel is a great fit because it offers gentle resurfacing with gluconolactone and papaya fruit extract that helps clear breakouts and balance oil without irritation. Its ingredients smooth texture and hydrate your skin safely.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Gluconolactone and papaya fruit extract make this exfoliant a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin by offering gentle resurfacing and smoothing your skin texture. Gluconolactone helps clear acne breakouts and balance oil production, and the formula has an excellent safety profile with very low risk of irritation.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

### What does PHA do for oily acne-prone skin?

PHA helps clear up mild to moderate acne by reducing both inflamed and non-inflamed spots similarly to stronger treatments, but with fewer side effects like dryness or irritation. It also keeps oily skin smooth and calm while being very gentle.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002656/)

### What does Papaya Fruit Extract do for oily acne-prone skin?

Papaya Fruit Extract helps smooth oily, acne-prone skin by gently clearing away dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause breakouts. This ingredient may also help reduce blemishes and overall acne lesions when used regularly in your routine.
Sources: [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/), [International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36652986/)

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine once a week as a treatment after cleansing and toning. People who tolerate it well and see good results may carefully use it more often.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

This exfoliant is a great fit for your oily acne-prone skin, but using it with retinol at the same time may cause irritation, so you should alternate the nights you use them. On the nights you use this treatment, apply it after cleansing and toning, and follow with your moisturizer.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant once a week in the evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you can carefully use it more often. It helps smooth texture and balance oil production while keeping irritation very unlikely.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant is a great fit because it helps smooth texture and balance oil production while clearing breakouts without harsh irritation. It is very safe and unlikely to cause clogging or purging on your oily skin.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/)

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £25.95 at Amazon
- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £25.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £14.80 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £12.65 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B5ZLYP15?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £13.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/axis-y-pha-resurfacing-glow-peel-50ml/17735057/)
Prices checked 15 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, Glycerin, Tromethamine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sclerotium Gum, Sodium Acrylic Acid Ma Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium Edta, Caprylyl Glycol, Camellia Japonica Flower Extract, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera Fruit Extract Grape Fruit Extract, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Tocopherol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/axis-y/pha-resurfacing-glow-peel/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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