Lat. Hydration · Long. BarrierIndependent skincare field guide — 204 products mapped · updated October 2026
DewyAtlas
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing SerumDrunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Serum (view 2)Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Serum (view 3)Serums

Serumsby Drunk Elephant

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Serum

Drunk Elephant's T.L.C.

4.4
Dewy Atlas score4.4 / 5
  • Results4.7
  • Gentleness4.2
  • Texture4.0
  • Value4.6
  • Resurfaces skin texture
  • Brightens dull tone
  • Multi-acid exfoliation
Skin type
Normal to resilient, acid-tolerant skin
Texture
Fragrance-free, silicone-free, oil-free
Size
50 ml / 1.69 fl oz
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Overview

What it is & who it suits

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Serum is a nightly exfoliating treatment designed to refine texture and reveal smoother, more radiant skin. At its core is an 11% blend of AHAs and BHA—glycolic, lactic, citric, salicylic, and tartaric acids—working together to dissolve dead skin cells, unclog pores, and accelerate cell turnover.

This multi-acid approach allows the serum to address a range of concerns at once, from dullness and uneven tone to rough patches and visible pores, without relying on a single harsh exfoliant. The formula is rounded out with raspberry (framboos) seed extract and antioxidant-rich botanicals, which help calm and nourish the skin while the acids do their resurfacing work. The texture is lightweight and water-based, absorbing quickly without leaving a sticky or heavy residue, which makes it easy to layer into a nighttime routine.

True to the Drunk Elephant philosophy, the serum is formulated without silicones, essential oils, drying alcohols, or fragrance, catering to those who want visible results without unnecessary irritants. Because of its potency, it's intended for use a few times a week rather than nightly at first, allowing skin to build tolerance to the acid concentration. Over consistent use, it's known for smoothing fine lines, fading the look of dark spots, and giving skin a brighter, more even-toned appearance.

Packaged in a sleek glass dropper bottle, the serum delivers a few drops at a time, making it simple to control application and avoid overuse. It pairs well with the brand's broader Marula and Protini lines, often recommended as part of a layered routine that balances exfoliation with hydration and barrier support. Dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike have gravitated toward this serum for its clinical-grade acid percentage paired with skin-loving extras, positioning it as a staple for anyone looking to incorporate a resurfacing step into their regimen without resorting to overly aggressive peels or professional treatments.

Key features

  • 12% AHA/BHA blend (glycolic, lactic, tartaric, citric, salicylic acids)
  • Raspberry seed extract rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids
  • Nightly exfoliating serum formulated without silicones, essential oils, or fragrance
  • Hydrating base with glycerin to offset acid intensity
  • Clinically tested pH level for effective yet balanced exfoliation
  • Compatible with Drunk Elephant's 'Suspicious 6'-free Clean Compatible philosophy

Specifications

The formula, by the numbers

Volume
50 ml / 1.69 fl oz
Key Acid Concentration
12% AHA/BHA blend
Skin Type
Normal to resilient, acid-tolerant skin
Usage Frequency
2-3 times per week (nightly max for tolerant skin)
Formulation
Fragrance-free, silicone-free, oil-free

Pros & cons

What we liked, what we didn’t

Pros

  • Visibly smooths texture and refines pores after consistent use
  • Multi-acid complex targets both surface and deeper exfoliation
  • Brightens dull, uneven skin tone over time
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula layers well under moisturizer
  • Free from essential oils, silicones, and fragrance for sensitive-but-tolerant skin

Cons

  • High acid concentration can cause tingling or irritation for beginners
  • Not suitable for highly sensitive or compromised skin barriers
  • Premium price point compared to drugstore exfoliating serums
  • Requires strict sunscreen use due to increased photosensitivity
  • Small bottle size relative to cost
4.4Our score

The verdict

Drunk Elephant's T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Serum is a potent multi-acid exfoliant that delivers noticeable improvements in skin texture, tone, and radiance with consistent nighttime use. While its 12% acid blend makes it highly effective for resurfacing, it demands careful introduction and diligent sun protection, making it best suited for those already accustomed to chemical exfoliants rather than true skincare beginners.

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