Exfoliation is the cornerstone of a radiant skincare routine, yet the notion of daily exfoliation can feel daunting. Traditional exfoliants – those gritty scrubs we’ve all tried, often do more harm than good, causing micro-tears in the skin. Enter AHA, BHA and PHA’s– the unsung heroes of skincare. These exfoliants work as gentle peels to dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together, unveiling a smoother, more luminous complexion without harsh abrasion. Effective and less irritating, they’re suitable for daily use. Let’s delve into the benefits of these transformative ingredients.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is renowned for its ability to work by penetrating deep into the skin as it’s the smallest-sized AHA molecule used in skincare. Here’s what it brings to your skincare regimen:
- Brightening: Diminishes dark spots and pigmentation, revealing a more radiant complexion.
- Pore Minimising: Consistent use can visibly reduce pore size.
- Texture Refining: Get rid of dead skin cells, unveiling a smoother, more even skin texture.
- Anti-Ageing: Stimulates collagen production, helping to diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is an AHA, naturally found in milk, and is celebrated for its gentle exfoliating properties, making it ideal for sensitive skin. It provides:
- Gentle Exfoliation: Exfoliates without causing redness or irritation, perfect for those with sensitive skin.
- Tone Improvement: Lightens dark spots, cleanses the pores and evens out skin tone with regular use.
- Hydration: Draws moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.
Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid is an AHA, naturally found in bitter almonds, and has a larger molecular structure, allowing it to penetrate the skin more slowly and gently. It’s particularly suitable for sensitive skin, offering:
- Even Skin Tone: Reduces pigmentation and sun damage.
- Anti-Acne: Its antibacterial properties make it effective in treating acne.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs)
PHAs, such as gluconolactone and lactobionic acid, are one of the gentle exfoliating acids due to their larger molecular size. They provide:
- Hydration: Attract and retain moisture in the skin.
- Antioxidant Protection: Defend against environmental damage.
- Sensitivity Friendly: Less likely to cause irritation, making them perfect for sensitive skin types.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its ability to penetrate deep into the pores. It provides:
- Exfoliation: Helps to shed dead skin cells, promoting a clearer complexion.
- Acne Treatment: Effectively targets and reduces acne by unclogging pores and preventing future breakouts.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and redness associated with acne and other skin conditions.
- Oil Control: Decreases excess oil production, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
Incorporating Gentle Acids into Your Routine
When introducing gentle acids, start with lower concentrations and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance. Always apply sunscreen during the day, as AHAs can heighten your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Here are ELLE’s recommendations to get glowing and smooth skin through gentle exfoliation.
1. Get Started with Lakmē’s Lumi-Smooth AHA+ Range
Lakmē’s Lumi Smooth AHA+ range is the perfect starting point for those new to gentle acids. This range seamlessly blends AHAs, BHAs, & PHAs, ensuring effective yet gentle daily exfoliation.
- Step 1: Cleanse with Lumi Smooth AHA+ Facewash, a gel based cleanser with 2% Salicylic acid – Lactic Acid, that is perfect for a luminous skin. Peel away imperfections gently with the super potent facewash, revealing brighter and smoother skin.
- Step 2: Apply Lumi Smooth AHA+ Serum with 8% AHA + BHA + PHA + B3 for pore minimisation and smooth irresistible skin.
- Step 3: Seal it in with Lumi Smooth AHA+ Gel Crème to lock in hydration.
Pro tip: Use this routine in the evening to let the actives work overnight for maximum impact. PS: It’s a saviour for people with oily to combination skin types.
2.Embrace the Power of Lakmē’s Glycolic Illuminate Range
Lakmē’s Glycolic Illuminate range takes your exfoliation game up a notch, harnessing the potency of 1% Glycolic acid to refine and rejuvenate your skin. Integrate this into your routine to achieve a brighter, more youthful complexion with ease.
- Glycolic Illuminate Cleanser: Start your routine with the Glycolic Illuminate Facewash for a deep yet gentle cleanse. It effectively eliminates dust, impurities, oil, and makeup, delivering a refreshing experience for your skin.
- Glycolic Illuminate Serum: Infuse your skin with the Glycolic Illuminate Serum. Formulated with 1% potent Glycolic Acid, this serum polishes away dead cells, leaving your skin with a silky satin feel.
- Glycolic Illuminate Day & Night Cream: Finish with the Glycolic Illuminate Day & Night Cream, a hydrating and smoothing moisturiser to complete your skincare ritual.
Pro tip: Use the cleanser for 60 seconds or more for the actives to work better and then follow it up with the serum and moisturiser.
