By now, you’re likely accustomed to using acids as part of your skincare routine. The exponential growth of acids in the skincare community can be attributed to their ability to effectively exfoliate, resurface, and tone the skin, helping to treat issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone and texture. However, those with sensitive skin may have found themselves missing out on the joys of chemical exfoliation until now, with AHAs and BHAs being too strong. Enter: PHA.
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What is PHA?
PHAs refer to polyhydroxy acids, a group of skincare acids which sit in the AHA family (which includes lactic and glycolic acid). Working similarly to AHAs, PHAs include lactobionic acid, galactose, and gluconolactone, and have a much larger molecule structure, allowing them to gently exfoliate without causing any stinging or irritation.
Why you should incorporate PHA into your skincare routine
Their larger molecule size means PHAs can be used by even the most sensitive skin types, making them ideal for those who want the benefits of AHAs without any side effects. Additionally, PHAs are humectants, meaning they work to retain moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. The gentle nature of PHAs makes them suitable for use up to twice a day.
How to incorporate PHAs into your skincare routine
For best results, apply a toner with PHAs after cleansing. Medik8 Press & Glow is an exfoliating PHA toner designed for daily use. Combining resurfacing, exfoliating, and moisturising PHA gluconolactone with prickly pear enzymes for rapid skin cell renewal (this can help improve the skin’s clarity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines) and soothing aloe vera, Medik8 Press & Glow works to gently exfoliate and clarify.
“When applied to the skin, [gluconolactone] converts to gluconic acid; an active acid within the skin. This conversion acts as a form of time-release – slowly releasing the acid into the skin – meaning irritation is unlikely,” Daniel Isaacs, Medik8’s Director of Research explains.
Follow Medik8 Press & Glow with vitamin C (or your serums of choice), moisturiser, and SPF 30+ in the morning, and retinol and moisturiser in the evening.
Medik8 Press & Glow
Words by AR Staff
Feature image courtesy of Gilles Bensimon for Elle USA
