No longer are acids relegated to chem labs; when it comes to skincare essentials, a good chemical exfoliant is a must. While physical and chemical exfoliants both have their place, chemical exfoliants can fit into almost any skincare routine, with there being options suitable for all skin types. Chemical exfoliants work by using AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), BHA (beta hydroxy acid), or PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) to slough off dead skin cells, revealing the smoother, more radiant skin underneath.
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What are the benefits of chemical exfoliants?
Regular exfoliation with an acid-based product aids in giving you softer skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and improving overall skin texture. Exfoliation also helps your other skincare products (think serums and moisturisers) work more efficiently, as they’re able to better penetrate into the skin. Chemical exfoliation can also be beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin types, with BHA exfoliants being able to penetrate deep into pores and clear out excess sebum.
The best chemical exfoliants on the market
Much like every facet of the beauty industry, the exfoliant market isn’t short of options. Fortunately, here at AR, we’ve tried almost all of them. To help you cut to the chase and get on the way to achieving glowing, baby-soft skin, we’ve rounded up the 10 best chemical exfoliants you can buy.
1. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel
For us, Paula’s Choice can do no wrong. One of our favourite new beauty releases, this Paula’s Choice 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel pairs 25% AHA blend and 2% BHA with plant extracts of chamomile, glycyrrhetinic acid from liquorice, and allantoin, which work to soothe the skin as the acids exfoliate and refine pores. A ten-minute treatment, it’s quick and easy to use, with the plant extracts ensuring there’s little to no irritation.
2. Biologique Recherche Lotion P50
It’s French, dahling. One of the OG chemical exfoliants, the minimalistically-packaged Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 is popular with beauty editors, celebrities, and skincare aficionados alike. Combining AHAs, BHA, and PHAs with niacinamide and horseradish, onion, and burdock root extracts (the latter of which lend it its distinct scent), Lotion P50 clarifies the skin and works to inhibit acne-causing bacteria. A cult-favourite for a reason.
3. Medik8 Sleep Glycolic
Formulated with 10% glycolic acid, Medik8 Sleep Glycolic harnesses the power of AHAs to brighten, refine, and reduce congestion skin overnight. The addition of glycerin and clover extract aid in drawing moisture into the skin and supporting the skin’s hydration and repair process. Providing visible results without any irritation or downtime, the Medik8 Sleep Glyolic is designed for use two to three times a week.
4. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
If there’s an effective skincare ingredient out there, The Ordinary never fail to produce an affordable option. This high-strength toning solution harnesses the power of glycolic acid – the most potent AHA – to slough off dead skin cells, while Tasmanian pepperberry and aloe vera work to reduce any irritation.
5. Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment
While consistent use is key when it comes to skincare, dedicated users of this overnight cult-favourite product claim to see visible results overnight. Lactic acid works to exfoliate dead skin cells to reveal smoother, more radiant skin while brightening extracts of liquorice and lemongrass aid with hyperpigmentation over time.
6. Biossance Squalane + Glycolic Renewal Mask
Formulated with a range of AHAs including glycolic, lactic, malic, and tartaric acids, the Biossance Squalane + Glycolic Renewal Mask works to exfoliate dead skin cells while the addition of squalane and hyaluronic acid delivers a dose of moisture.
7. Medik8 Press & Glow
While many chemical exfoliants can be harsh on the skin and should thus only be used a few times a week, the Medik8 Press & Glow is specifically formulated to be suitable for sensitive skin and can be used twice daily without irritation. This toner uses gluconolactone, a PHA that comforts and hydrates the skin as it exfoliates. Plus, prickly pear extract, aloe vera, and acai extract work to promote cell renewal and reduce any irritation or inflammation.
8. Go-To Exfoliating Swipeys
Apprehensive about AHAs? The Go-To Exfoliating Swipeys make exfoliating easy; with each pad coming pre-soaked in a nourishing blend of lactic acid (a hydrating AHA) and aloe vera for easy, gentle exfoliation.
9. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
The ideal choice for those with acne-prone skin, this leave-on exfoliant uses salicylic acid (a BHA) to unclog pores by dissolving any trapped sebum and impurities, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and improve skin clarity. Plus, it’s an effective solution to any body acne you may be experiencing.
10. Ole Henriksen Phat Glow Facial
Utilising a gentler alternative to AHAs, the Ole Henriksen Phat Glow Facial combines PHAs with kaolin clay, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and Nordic birch sap to create a non-irritating exfoliating mask suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Words by Esmé Duggan
