When it comes to exfoliants, knowing your ingredient names, what they are and what they do is essential!

We spoke to Victoria Evans, Education Manager at Dermalogica about what we should be looking for in our exfoliators. Firstly, Victoria recommended educating yourself on the different exfoliant ingredients available on the market (starting with this roundup of top exfoliant ingredients!) Next, Victoria highly recommends talking to your Dermalogica skin therapist about finding the exfoliant that best fits your skin, lifestyle and personal preferences.

And, take note: Victoria informed us that if you use medically prescribed exfoliating products, you should ask your doctor before adding more to your regimen so that you don’t overdo it.

Ingredients, made simple. Victoria has broken down all of the common ingredients you’ll come across below…

PHA (Gluconolactone)

“This plant-based Polyhydroxy Acid has a large molecular structure that limits its ability to penetrate the skin – allowing it to provide skin-smoothing and antioxidant benefits without sensitising side effects. Find it in Liquid Peelfoliant, where it works together with a blend of 30% acids and enzymes to produce visible results.”

Glycolic Acid

“Glycolic Acid helps to unclog pores, improve skin texture, and decrease the appearance of fine lines. You can find it in a daily peel with Liquid Peelfoliant, or in cleanser form with Daily Glycolic Cleanser.”

Tranexamic Acid

“This powerful active works to even skin tone and decrease the appearance of dark spots. It also has soothing properties, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Find it in Liquid Peelfoliant for a daily at-home peel safe enough for all skin types.”

Lactic Acid

“This Alpha Hydroxy Acid helps smoother skin and stimulate cell turnover and renewal without leaving skin dehydrated. Find it along with other AHAs and exfoliating fruit enzymes in Rapid Reveal Peel.“

Retinol

“Pure vitamin A is the gold standard for brighter-looking skin and fewer visible signs of skin ageing. Find it in Age Reversal Eye Complex.”

Phytic Acid

“This skin-softening phytochemical found in Rice Bran helps safely remove dulling surface debris from skin. Find it in Daily Microfoliant and Daily Superfoliant, where it’s pulverized into an ultra-fine powder that’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.”

Papain Extract

“Harvested from Papaya, Papain Extract is a natural chemical exfoliant that helps to resurface dull, rough skin. Find it with other AHAs and BHAs in Daily Milkfoliant.”

Prickly Pear Extract

“Derived from a hearty Sonoran Desert succulent that’s able to thrive in adverse conditions, this nonacid blend helps accelerate the skin’s natural exfoliation process and reduce the appearance of skin ageing. Find it in scrub form with MultiVitamin Thermafoliant.”

Salicylic Acid

“This skin-smoothing, breakout-friendly Beta Hydroxy Acid helps remove dead skin cells by breaking apart the attachments between cells. Find it in Daily Microfoliant, Clearing Skin Wash and AGE Bright Clearing Serum.“

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