My review of SVR Laboratories’ Sebiaclear Serum 

Sebiaclear is SVR'saward-winning range specifically formulated by dermatologists to eliminate acne, blackheads and other types of congestion. This range is especially popular for its ability to control shine and excess sebum. I tried the Sebiaclear Serum, which is meant to be an exfoliant, brightener and wrinkle fighter in one (sounds good, right?!).

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Finally, a product specifically targeted at adult acne

So, if you’ve read my other reviews, you’ll probably know by now that I’m a massive fan of SVR Laboratories. It’s the only brand that managed to vanquish my rosacea (love you, Sensifine AR!) and dry skin on my body (love you too, Topialyse!). But my skin is complicated. Not only is it sometimes dry, sometimes oily and sometimes sensitive, but I ALSO get hormonal acne. I know exactly when I’m going to get my period because two days before, right on cue, I get a breakout. I mean, I’m in my 30s now and I’m STILL dealing with this sh*t! I used to think acne was a teenage thing but boy, that got proved wrong with time.

What attracted me to SVR’s Sebiaclear Serum is that it’s meant to sort out acne, lighten acne scars AND combat the appearance of fine lines all at once. 10-step beauty routine, eat your heart out! Clinical trials have shown that all it takes is 7 days to see visible results, thanks to a high concentration of active ingredients. All the skincare superstars are there, including PHAs, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, Vitamin E and antioxidants.

But first, what are PHAs?

PHAs are a type of exfoliating acid, perhaps not as well known as their sexier cousins AHA and BHA. But PHAs (short for polyhydroxy acids) are fantastic, particularly on sensitive skin.  Because of their comparatively larger molecular structure, they don’t penetrate the skin as easily. This makes them less irritating and redness-inducing.

PHAs are also awesome anti-ageing ingredients. They help fight both collagen and elastin degradation. And how’s this for the cherry on top: PHAs are considered humectants (i.e. moisture-attracting), making them ideal exfoliants for dehydrated skin – and even eczema.

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SVR Laboratories’ Sebiaclear Serum ingredients

There are a few types of PHAs out there, but the one used in SVR’s Sebiaclear Serum formula is called gluconolactone. This particular PHA binds pretty closely to the skin and in that sense, acts as an antioxidant would – i.e. shields against free radical damage and environmental aggressors. It’s listed as no. 2 on the ingredients list, meaning it is a key ingredient in the formula. Niacinamide is number 4, and fermented extracts follow soon after. It’s a pretty rad line up of skincare stars. Note, there is added fragrance (coming in last). It’s not overpowering, but it just seems the French really like their scents. All of SVR’s ranges contain light fragrances, except for its Topialyse and Sensifine ranges. I’ve never found it offensive nor did it make my skin react, but if you have a fragrance sensitivity, better patch test first.

Where it fit in my routine

After double cleansing and toning with a simple hydrating toner in the evenings, I applied the serum and followed with a moisturizer. My skin is fairly sensitive at the moment (thanks to my first dry Melbourne winter in years after moving from balmy Hong Kong) so I took it easy and only used it twice a week. The first time I used it, I noticed that my skin was dryer the next day, hence I decided not to make it a daily thing. However, one of my friends used this daily on his non-sensitive skin without any problem.

Texture and application      

The texture is like a very lightweight lotion. It’s slightly watery and absorbs quickly, with an invisible finish. I put a thick layer of moisturizer on top without pilling – so I think it’ll hold up well under makeup. Afterwards, my sensitive skin felt tingly, but there was no redness (hallelujah!) or discomfort. You can definitely tell the difference between a PHA serum and AHAs! It feels gentler.

Results and final verdict

Umm….ok. I woke up the next morning and my skin felt SMOOTH. Like a baby’s butt. This surprised me a little bit because I didn’t expect gluconolactone to be that effective an exfoliant. I can certainly how it’d do the trick lightening acne scars. I wore a sleeping mask with some marula oil the next day because even though PHA is meant to be a humectant, my skin (especially on my cheeks) still felt a little dry. The next time I used Sebiaclear, I followed up with a layer of marula oil before my moisturizer and I woke up in a much better state: still baby-butt smooth, but more moisturized. Now, I don’t know if it was because I decided to go on a bit of a health kick and cut down on my sugar intake, the Sebiaclear Serum, or both – but I only got one tiny whitehead in the two months I was using Sebiaclear. I was impressed! As for its wrinkle-fighting abilities, I don’t have too many fine lines just yet so I can’t speak to that. But hey, for anyone wondering about it, it’s worth a try! At the worst, you’ll probably just end up with baby-butt face like me.

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Find the Sebiaclear Serum from SVR Laboratories online in Australia at Kanvas Beauty

You can shop the serum and other SVR Laboratories products right here on Kanvas Beauty.

We ship Australia-wide, including all the major cities (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Darwin, Adelaide and Canberra). Enjoy free standard shipping with any purchase over $50, and free express shipping with any order over $99. If you’re new to Kanvas Beauty, take an additional $20 off your first order with us (use code WELCOME20 at checkout).

Happy shopping! If you have further questions on Beauty of Joseon or any of our other brands, drop us a line on chat or on email: hello@kanvasbeauty.com.au.

Have you tried any SVR Sebiaclear products? What do you think? Leave a review and tell us all the gory details!