Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum Dupes & Cheaper Alternatives
From 22 Reddit threads · Updated October 15, 2026
Three-AHA exfoliation improves pigmentation and fine lines; expensive, long-lasting bottle. The catch: full size costs $72+. Here's what Redditors reach for instead.
The short answer
Best Overall Alternative1.5% salicylic acid plus glycolic acid targets breakouts and clogged pores
Same Active: Glycolic Acid1.5% salicylic acid leave-on treatment for bumps and blackheads · $33.99 · 29.6 ml
Best for Hyperpigmentation15% L-ascorbic acid; standout brightening and tone-evening results · $147.96 · 30 ml
#1
Best Overall Alternative
- Key actives: Salicylic acid 1.5%
The why
This is a 1.5% salicylic-acid serum with glycolic acid for breakouts and clogged pores. Redditors report fewer, shorter-lived flares, and studies found both acids help acne; alcohol denat. plus irritation and peeling make it a rough fit for sensitive skin.
One minus
Pricey for a serum, even when it lasts a long time
The original, at a glance
- Why people love it
- Three AHAs plus salicylic acid in one serum
#2
Same Active: Glycolic Acid
Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Serum
La Roche-Posay·Serum
See alternatives1.5% salicylic acid leave-on treatment for bumps and blackheads
- Key actives: Salicylic Acid 1.5%
- Size: 29.6 ml
The why
A leave-on exfoliating serum pairing 1.5% salicylic acid with glycolic acid targets bumps, blackheads, and visible pores. Redditors report clearer skin, and studies support acne improvement; stinging and the alcohol-heavy formula can upset dry or reactive skin.
One minus
Stings immediately for some users, especially with frequent application
#3
Best for Hyperpigmentation
SkinCeuticals·Serum
See alternatives15% L-ascorbic acid; standout brightening and tone-evening results
- Key actives: L-ascorbic acid 15%, alpha tocopherol 1%
- Size: 30 ml
The why
A 15% L-ascorbic acid serum paired with tocopherol and ferulic acid for antioxidant protection and visible tone-evening. It suits experienced vitamin-C users chasing pigmentation and glow, but irritation, hot-dog odor, oxidation, and cost are real.
One minus
Extremely expensive beside cheaper near-identical formulas
Good forDry Skin, Sensitive Skin
Both recommended for Hyperpigmentation.
“Changes: Added CE Ferulic + tretinoin + tinted SPF”
— Reddit, r/40plusskincare
Other alternatives worth a look
20% L-ascorbic acid with Ferulic Acid and Alpha Tocopherol · 378 mentions
LightweightDewy Finish
2% alpha-arbutin targets post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation · 84 mentions
Post-Inflammatory HyperpigmentationGluten-Free
10% mandelic acid; brighter skin without peeling · 25 mentions
Sensitive SkinDry Skin
2% salicylic acid targets whiteheads and closed comedones · 19 mentions
Acne
2% salicylic acid for weekly-to-twice-weekly use · 7 mentions
Salicylic Acid
10% OTC azelaic acid; studies support the active for acne · 750 mentions
Combination SkinSensitive Skin
10% niacinamide plus Zinc PCA for oil control · 637 mentions
Combination SkinDry Skin
Centella-focused seven-ingredient formula · 562 mentions
Combination SkinSensitive Skin
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