AHA/BHA Chemical Exfoliant
Glycolic and lactic acid, your alpha-hydroxy acids, dissolve the bonds holding dead cells to the surface, so texture smooths out and skin brightens. Salicylic acid is the beta-hydroxy, and because it's oil-soluble, it slides straight into the pore, clears out sebum, and calms acne while it's down there. Two acids. Two different jobs. Together they resurface skin and keep pores clearer.
Why it works
Chemical exfoliation isn't a new trend. It's one of the most studied categories in skincare, and controlled trials back it up: AHAs improve texture, tone, and fine lines, and BHA measurably calms inflammatory acne. That part is strong, no notes. Hyperpigmentation is where the evidence turns more moderate, so don't expect an acid pad to erase a dark spot overnight.
How to use it
- Use it in the evening, and only on dry skin after cleansing.
- Sweep it on with a cotton pad or your fingertips. Eye area is a hard no.
- It goes on early, before your heavier serums and moisturizer get a turn.
- Start once or twice a week. Let your skin earn the upgrade to more.
- Retinoid night? This stays in the drawer. Never the same evening as your retinoid.
- SPF the next day is non-negotiable. Acids raise sun sensitivity, they don't lower it.
In the evening after cleansing, on dry skin, applied with a cotton pad or fingertips across the face and avoiding the eye area. It goes early in the routine, before heavier serums and moisturizer. Do not use it on the same night as your retinoid to avoid over-exfoliating.
For men: Shave days, this stays off your face. The razor is already resurfacing you. Acids on top just invite raw, stinging skin for no reason. Save it for a rest night, and over time it clears those ingrown hairs too.
⚠ Over-exfoliation causes redness, stinging, and a compromised barrier; start once or twice weekly and increase only as tolerated. Acids raise sun sensitivity, so daily SPF is essential. This is educational information, not medical advice; discuss with a clinician before combining actives.
