Which liquid exfoliant is right for me?

If your skin is… lacklustre and sensitive

Feel your skin looks a little weary? If not effectively cleared away, dead skin cells can build up on the surface, making skin appear tired and dull. This is the perfect time to tip-toe your way into the wonderful world of liquid exfoliants, starting with a poly-hydroxy acid.

The mildest of the trio, PHAs are defined by their larger molecule size. This allows them to whisk away dead skin cells from the surface of the skin without penetrating it too deeply. Instead of diving in, they work on the top layers to gently buff away those unwanted cells. They also have humectant properties, which means they draw moisture into the skin. And everything (the skin included) works better when it’s well hydrated – just imagine trying to run a marathon without a drink.

With continued use skin appears refreshed, radiant and rested, with a smoother texture. Poly-hydroxy acids carry the lowest risk of irritation in the skin and are able to be tolerated by all, even those with skin that’s sensitive or easily irked.

If your skin is… oily and blemish prone

The oilier your skin is, the more likely you are to count congestion or blemishes among your top complexion bugbears. Spots are formed when pores become blocked by dead skin cells, preventing oil from flowing freely. Enter beta-hydroxy acids, the hero exfoliators that work wonders on oily complexions.

Salicylic acid, one of the most popular BHAs, is oil-soluble, which grants it access to the oil within the skin, enabling it to dive in and whisk away those pesky dead skin cells. With fewer dead skin cells hanging around, congestion and blemishes are less likely to form. Not only will beta-hydroxy acids reduce the likelihood of future blemishes, they’ll help to banish existing ones too. A win-win scenario for anyone trying to bring breakouts under control.

If your skin is… dehydrated with fine lines

Want to fast-track your way to better skin? Alpha-hydroxy acids can help address concerns including dehydration, fine lines, lack of glow and hyperpigmentation in one swoop. These hero multitaskers work in the same way as poly-hydroxy acids, yet their smaller molecule size enables them to penetrate deeper into the skin. Small but mighty, they set to work ridding skin of radiance-robbing dead skin cells in record time. By sending these dead skin cells on their way, they reveal the fresher, younger, clearer skin beneath.

As they are strong ingredients, alpha-hydroxy acids are best suited to experienced acid users. They need to be introduced to your routine slowly, starting with just a couple of applications a week. You can up the ante once your skin has adjusted. Think of it like starting an exercise regime. To reduce the risk of injury (and to make walking up the stairs an all-round better experience) it’s always better to start slow and build up as your body adjusts. Your skin is the same, and will need to get used to working at a faster pace.

As they are strong ingredients, alpha-hydroxy acids are best suited to experienced acid users. They need to be introduced to your routine slowly, starting with just a couple of applications a week. You can up the ante once your skin has adjusted. Think of it like starting an exercise regime. To reduce the risk of injury (and to make walking up the stairs an all-round better experience) it’s always better to start slow and build up as your body adjusts. Your skin is the same, and will need to get used to working at a faster pace.