In an attempt to streamline my skincare routine, I’ve been trying to find my own “holy-grail” (HG) skincare items, which as a recovering skincare junkie, isn’t easy. One category I’ve really been getting into lately has been exfoliating acids.
What’s so amazing about acids? Well, for one thing, they help to loosen up the bonds between dead skin cells, which in turn results in smoother, brighter skin. They also help to unclog pores and reduce fine lines and wrinkles (basically, everything you ever wanted your skincare to do and more).
According to Paula’s Choice* website,
Without question, a leave-on AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) or BHA (beta hydroxy acid) exfoliant can make a world of difference in your skin’s appearance. We’re often asked which one is best, and the answer is less complicated than you might think. […]
Our skin naturally exfoliates dead cells every day, but over time—primarily as a result of age and unprotected sun exposure—this shedding process slows, and may stop altogether. The not-too-pretty results include dull, dry, or flaky skin; clogged, enlarged pores; bumps, wrinkles, loss of firmness, and uneven skin tone. […]
To work effectively, AHA and BHA exfoliants must be formulated within a narrow pH range, between 3 and 4. […]
How AHAs and BHA are Different
AHAs work on skin’s surface, and are water soluble. They’re generally preferred for normal to dry, sun-damaged skin, due to their ability to enhance natural moisturizing factors within skin. They’ve also been proven effective in reducing the visible signs of sun damage.
BHA works on skin’s surface and inside the pore; it’s oil soluble, so it’s most often preferred for normal to oily skin prone to bumps, clogs, blemishes, and enlarged pores. BHA also has natural skin-calming properties, so it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin prone to redness and/or rosacea. This well-rounded, gentle ingredient is even suitable for skin prone to milia.
How to Combine AHA and BHA Products
With so many shared and unique benefits, we’re routinely asked, “Should I use both an AHA and BHA product to get the best results?” In short, no; either will provide remarkable results for various skin types and concerns. But there’s nothing wrong with using both or experimenting to see which one works best for you.
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While every skincare/beauty blogger has raved about the cult-favorite Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 (which I still have yet to try), I heard that the tarte Knockout Tingling Skin Treatment might be an affordable dupe for it. When a sale opportunity arose last year, I decided to pick it up and give it a try.
The star ingredients of the tarte knockout tingling treatment include:
- water: delivers & retains skin’s natural moisture
- glycerin: compound found naturally in the skin to help hydrate & restore your skin’s moisture
- niacinamide: anti-inflammatory ingredient that also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines & dullness
- salicylic acid: a skin-balancing ingredient that promotes cell renewal & is ideal for acne-prone skin
- lactic acid: exfoliates dead skin cells & is gentle enough for those with sensitive skin
- arctium lappa root extract: soothing extract that calms inflammation & reduces irritation
- sulfur: natural mineral that promotes cell turnover & reduces the look of large pores
Product Details:
- vegan
- hypoallergenic
- oil free
- dermatologist tested
- Retail Price: $39
- net 150 mL / 5 Fl. Oz
- Made in USA.
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, niacinamide, lactic acid, citric acid, propanediol, glycerin, gluconolactone, malic acid, phytic acid, salicylic acid, sodium benzoate, magnesium chloride, acetic acid, potassium sorbate, allium cepa (onion) bulb extract, calcium gluconate, cochlearia armoracia (horseradish) root extract, commiphora myrrha resin extract, myrtus communis extract, rumex acetosa leaf extract, thymus vulgaris (thyme) flower/leaf extract, calcium chloride, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sulfur.
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Although, the packaging is a little cumbersome and bulky, the product itself is pretty easy to use. After you’ve finished with your cleansing routine, you just moisten a cotton ball or cotton round with the toner and then apply it over your décolleté, neck, and face. Be careful to avoid the eye area while applying the toner to your face, and allow your skin to dry before applying your moisturizer.
The only other con to this product is you kind of have to get used to the strong “vinegar” scent. At first, the strong scent discouraged me from wanting to use it regularly, but I eventually got used to it. Now, I actually barely notice it anymore. In addition, once the toner is on the skin, the scent dissipates and you immediately feel the “tingly” sensation on your skin. If you have sensitive skin, I highly recommend doing a patch test first because the “tingly” sensation can be quite strong, especially if you are new to using chemical exfoliators.
I typically use this product 1-2 times a week at night, depending on how my skin is feeling. I also prefer to use it when my skin is feeling clogged or if I feel like my skin is starting to break out. I definitely notice a difference whenever I use it and it has been effective in clearing up my breakouts without drying out or irritating my skin. Overall, I think it’s a great chemical exfoliator at a decent mid-range price point. If you’re not ready to commit to the full-size, tarte does offer a cute travel-sized version ($18). Either way, if you’re not in a rush, I highly recommend waiting for a sale at tarte’s website like I did, or shopping around other retailers that carry tarte’s products to find the best deal.
ps: if you use ebates, you also get cash back!
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What is your favorite way to incorporate AHA/BHAs into your skincare routine? I would love to know your current favorite chemical exfoliators!
*Paula’s Choice has great skincare information that references actual peer-reviewed journals for any skincare nerds that love learning more about skincare ingredients.
jessmeandering 