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Fights breakouts and blackheads
Fast-absorbing liquid formula
Renews skin below the surface for healthier cell turnover
This ultimate exfoliation power duo has actives that work in the skin both above and below its surface. The AHA resurfaces texture & tone gently, whilst reversing a compromised skin barrier. The BHA renews the skin deep into the pore lining for your clearest skin yet. By combining both levels of exfoliation, the skin will gain a refreshed, youthful glow.
Fast absorbing liquid formula removes built-up dead skin cells and fights blackheads.
Starter exfoliation: slowly incorporate AHA + BHA into your weekly routine using AHA every 2-3 days, alternated with BHA every 2-3 days. Moderate exfoliation: alternate AHA + BHA every other day, applying once a day. Advanced exfoliation: use both AHA + BHA daily, we recommend BHA in the morning and AHA in the evening. For each exfoliant, lightly soak a cotton pad and gently apply over the entire face and neck, including the eye area (avoid lash line and eyelids). Do not rinse. For daytime use, always finish with an SPF 30 or higher.
It is best to gradually build up use of a BHA product. Start by using your exfoliant once every other day and then increase usage to once or twice daily based on your skin’s response. You need to experiment a bit to see what suits your skin best. During the day, always use a moisturiser with a broad spectrum sun cream rated SPF 30 or higher. Your skin will in fact be slightly more sensitive to sunlight when using an exfoliant, so the chance of sunburn and sun damage is a little higher.
Yes, using an AHA and BHA in the same routine can provide advanced results for those experiencing multiple skin concerns. Many people find that alternating AHA and BHA exfoliants is the perfect solution to address their unique concerns.
For advanced users or those with stubborn skin concerns related to acne, clogged pores, or accelerated signs of aging, layering AHA and BHA simultaneously might be suitable. Even then, you may only need a cadence of, say, 3x per week instead of daily. For most individuals, alternating their use (one in the morning, one in the evening or alternating by day) is generally more effective. Alternating exfoliating products can deliver excellent results while minimising irritation risks. Before you begin, assess your primary skin concerns, skincare goals and skin tolerance. Also be prepared to experiment a bit to discover what works best for you personally. Remember to monitor your skin and adjust usage accordingly. Keep in mind that more doesn't always mean better. Adopting a "start slow" approach is crucial. Exfoliation is a balancing act that requires not tipping the scale so the potential for irritation outweighs the benefits.
It’s best to gradually increase the use of an AHA product. Start by using your exfoliant once every other day, after cleansing and toning (if toner is part of your routine). Gradually increase usage to once or twice daily based on your skin’s response. You need to experiment to see what suits your skin best. During the day, always use a moisturiser with a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher.
One of the AHAs we are using in this formula is mandelic acid, which is water-soluble. Once the mandelic acid penetrates the water or hydrophilic portion of skin, it becomes lipophilic which means it can penetrate the oil (sebum) of the skin as well. This makes mandelic acid both oil-loving and water-loving, allowing it to offer multi-level benefits which include helping skin look and feel firmer and smoother. In addition, the yarrow extract assists in the multi-level renewal as it helps revive the skin’s normal rate of cell renewal, so you’ll see fresher, more luminous skin with refined texture and tighter-looking pores. Each of these ingredients act on multiple layers of the epidermis. This encourages healthy surface cell shedding and helps normalise the cellular renewal process that can become sluggish and faulty due to natural ageing, environmental damage or certain skin disorders.
The bottle for this product is made from 96% recycled plastic (excluding cap and orifice reducer).
The smell some may notice is due to the combination of lactic acid and yarrow extract which are both essential to the formula. It should dissipate quickly after application, but keep in mind that scent perception varies greatly between individuals, so what one person finds unpleasant, another might not notice at all or find appealing. Also remember that Paula’s Choice intentionally formulates without the use of masking fragrance. This is because fragrances, including essential oils, can potentially irritate and damage the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin. Many customers find that the benefits of our amazing products outweigh any potential brief olfactory drawback.
The difference between AHA and BHA exfoliants
What is SPF & how does it work?