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DermExcel™

Renewal Facial Cleanser

4.9 / 5.0 from 838 reviews

Unclog Pores

Minimize Pores

anti-aging

smooth skin

Brightening

This scientifically formulated treatment cleanser combats the detrimental effects of airborne bacteria and urban pollution on the skin. It leverages a potent blend of active ingredients to address common concerns such as skin aging, pigmentation, and inflammatory conditions. A gentle exfoliating action effectively removes dull, lifeless skin cells from the surface while simultaneously accelerating cell renewal at a deeper level. By doing so, it restores the skin's natural purity and radiance.

Renewal Facial Cleanser stands apart with its ability to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously. It removes impurities and pollutants from the skin's surface and dives deeper to stimulate cell renewal, resulting in a revitalized and healthier-looking complexion. With its scientifically backed formulation and carefully selected active ingredients, this cleanser offers an effective solution for those seeking to defend against environmental stressors and rejuvenate their skin.

Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid is highly acclaimed for its remarkable exfoliating and rejuvenating properties. Its small molecular size enables deep skin penetration, fostering efficient exfoliation at the cellular level.

Glycolic acid’s water solubility allows it to penetrate the upper layers of the skin easily. Its primary mechanism of action involves weakening the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting their shedding, and revealing the newer, healthier skin beneath. This process of accelerated cell turnover is instrumental in addressing a range of skin concerns, from aging signs like fine lines and wrinkles to texture irregularities and hyperpigmentation.

Glycolic acid's efficacy extends beyond mere exfoliation. It's also recognized for stimulating collagen production, a crucial protein in maintaining skin's elasticity and firmness. This aspect contributes to its anti-aging benefits. Furthermore, its hydrating properties add to its appeal, as they help increase the skin's capacity to retain moisture, leading to a more supple and vibrant complexion.

Clinical studies have consistently supported glycolic acid's role in improving skin appearance. Research indicates significant improvements in skin texture and pigmentation and the visible reduction of wrinkles and fine lines with glycolic acid.

Physiological Effects

Exfoliation: Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant. It dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells on the skin’s surface, facilitating their removal and revealing newer, healthier skin underneath.
Increased Collagen Production: It stimulates collagen production, essential for skin elasticity and firmness. This action helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Enhanced Skin Hydration: Glycolic acid improves the skin's ability to retain moisture, enhancing hydration and a more plump, vibrant skin appearance.
Skin Brightening: Removing dead skin cells can brighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Improved Skin Texture: Regular use of glycolic acid can lead to smoother, more even textured skin, making it beneficial for conditions like keratosis pilaris.
Acne Treatment: Its exfoliating properties help in unclogging pores, thereby reducing the occurrence of acne breakouts.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

Aging Skin: Glycolic acid is widely used in anti-aging products to reduce signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Acne-Prone Skin: It helps manage acne by exfoliating the skin and removing blockage from pores.
Hyperpigmentation: It effectively treats hyperpigmentation by accelerating the removal of hyperpigmented skin cells.
Textural Irregularities: Glycolic acid improves skin texture, treating keratosis pilaris and other rough skin conditions.
Sun-Damaged Skin: It helps rejuvenate sun-damaged skin by accelerating cell turnover and collagen synthesis.

References

Bernstein, E. F. (2001). Glycolic acid treatment increases type I collagen mRNA and hyaluronic acid content of human skin. Dermatologic Surgery.
Kornhauser, A., Coelho, S. G., & Hearing, V. J. (2010). Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.
Sharad, J. (2013). Glycolic acid peel therapy – a current review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.
Smith, W. P. (1996). Epidermal and dermal effects of topical lactic acid. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 35(3), 388-391.

Mandelic acid

Despite its gentler nature, Mandelic acid potently accelerates cell turnover, removes dead skin cells, and promotes a fresher, more rejuvenated skin appearance.

Mandelic acid's efficacy extends to a wide range of skin concerns. It's particularly beneficial in treating acne, as its antibacterial properties are effective against various strains of bacteria commonly associated with acne development. Moreover, it's known for regulating sebum production and reducing inflammation, further contributing to its acne-fighting capabilities.

Additionally, mandelic acid has shown promise in addressing hyperpigmentation. Its ability to inhibit melanin production helps reduce age spots, sun spots, and uneven skin tones, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare products targeting pigmentation issues. Studies have documented its effectiveness in improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, offering a multifaceted approach to skin rejuvenation.

Physiological Effects

Exfoliation: Mandelic acid gently exfoliates the skin by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, promoting their removal and revealing fresh, new skin underneath.
Antibacterial Properties: It possesses antibacterial properties, making it effective against acne-causing bacteria.
Reducing Hyperpigmentation: Mandelic acid is known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation, including age spots, sun spots, and marks left by acne, due to its ability to inhibit melanin production.
Anti-aging Effects: It stimulates collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve the overall texture of aging skin.
Suitability for Sensitive Skin: Due to its larger molecular size than other AHAs, mandelic acid penetrates the skin more slowly and is less likely to irritate, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

Acne Treatment: Its exfoliating and antibacterial properties make mandelic acid effective in treating acne, particularly in those with sensitive skin.
Melasma and Hyperpigmentation: It is beneficial in treating melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation, lightening dark spots without causing significant irritation.
Aging Skin: Mandelic acid is used in anti-aging skin care products to improve skin texture and diminish signs of aging.
Photo-Aging: It can help to reverse some of the damage caused by UV radiation, such as fine lines and uneven skin tone.

References

Briden, M. E. (2004). Noninvasive treatments of acne. In Acne and its Therapy (pp. 341-357). Marcel Dekker.
Taylor, M. B. (1999). Summary of mandelic acid for the improvement of skin conditions. Cosmetic Dermatology.
Sharad, J. (2013). Glycolic acid peel therapy – a current review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid, a renowned beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is a cornerstone in dermatology and skincare due to its exceptional keratolytic and comedolytic properties. Its unique ability to penetrate oil-laden hair follicle pores makes it particularly effective in treating acne-prone and oily skin types.

Salicylic acid dissolves skin debris (sebum and dead skin cells) that clogs pores and causes acne. It's a mild antibacterial and powerful anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce the redness and swelling associated with breakouts.

What sets salicylic acid apart in dermatological treatments is its ability to exfoliate the skin, not just on the surface but within the pores themselves. This is due to its oil-soluble nature, which allows it to penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve the keratin plugs that lead to blackheads and whiteheads.

Furthermore, salicylic acid also has the capacity to adjust the pH of the skin, creating an environment less favorable for the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid's efficacy in treating various skin conditions, particularly acne, has been extensively documented in the scientific literature. Studies have consistently shown its ability to reduce acne lesions in terms of count and severity. Additionally, salicylic acid is highly recommended for its effectiveness in treating other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and dandruff, due to its ability to soften and remove scales and flakes from the skin.

Physiological Effects

Keratolytic Action: Salicylic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin by dissolving the intercellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Comedolytic Effect: It is particularly effective in reducing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by unclogging pores and preventing the formation of new comedones.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Salicylic acid reduces inflammation, which is beneficial in treating acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Sebum Regulation: It helps to regulate oil production, making it a valuable ingredient for managing oily and acne-prone skin.
Penetration Enhancement: Due to its lipophilic nature, it can penetrate sebum-filled follicles, effectively treating acne located deep within the pores.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

Acne Vulgaris: Salicylic acid is a cornerstone in acne treatment, effectively preventing and treating existing acne lesions.
Psoriasis: Its keratolytic properties make it helpful in softening and removing scales associated with psoriasis.
Warts: Salicylic acid is commonly used to treat warts because it can exfoliate and remove thick skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: It helps manage seborrheic dermatitis by reducing scaling and redness.
Keratosis Pilaris: Salicylic acid can aid in smoothing the rough bumps associated with peratosis Pilaris.

References

Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., & Thiboutot, D. M. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945-973.e33.
Kornhauser, A., Coelho, S. G., & Hearing, V. J. (2010). Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 3, 135.
Zander, E., & Weisman, S. (1992). Treatment of acne vulgaris with salicylic acid pads. Clinical Therapeutics.
Gupta, A. K., & Nicol, K. (2004). The use of sulfur in dermatology. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

USE DURING PREGNANCY

Renewal Facial Cleanser is safe to use during pregnancy.

SHIPPING

Shipping Guarantee: Guiding you to healthy skin isn’t only about our products; it's also about getting them to you as swiftly as the science behind them. That's why Dermal Health offers a shipping guarantee you can rely on.
Where We Ship From: Orders are dispatched from our facilities in Pretoria.
Who We Ship With: We trust only well-known, popular, and dependable courier services with your packages.
When You'll Get It: Expect confident skin soon! Shipping addresses in Pretoria and Johannesburg will enjoy delivery from same-day to 2 business days. Shipping addresses further from Pretoria may expect delivery within 1-4 business days, depending on the service you select during checkout. Your estimated delivery date will reflect during checkout so that you can mark your calendar.
Tracking Your Order: Eager to start your DermExcel journey? We don't blame you! You'll receive a tracking number after you place your order so that you can follow your package.

For any shipping inquiries, our customer service team is ready to assist.

RETURNS

Dermal Health Science 30-Day Confidence Guarantee: We are passionate about guiding you to healthy skin through medical science. We believe in the quality and effectiveness of our products so much that we offer a 30-Day Confidence Guarantee. If you're unsatisfied with your purchase, simply return it within 30 days for a full refund.

Healthy Skin Is Not Complicated and neither is our return policy. Please visit our detailed return policy or contact our friendly customer service team for more information.

Feel as confident in us as we want you to feel in your skin.

SECURE PAYMENT

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Simple. Effective. Ethical. That's not just our skincare philosophy but our approach to your security too.

Renewal Facial Cleanser login to view prices

Aging Skin: Help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Uneven Skin Tone and Hyperpigmentation: Brighten and even the complexion for a more radiant look, and lighten areas of hyperpigmentation on the skin.
Dullness: Restores vitality and improves the skin's overall radiance.
Environmental Damage: Helps repair and protect against the effects of UV exposure and environmental pollutants.
Enlarged Pores: Help to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
Acne: Combining Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid, and Mandelic acid can effectively treat mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. These ingredients help to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, reducing the occurrence of acne breakouts.

Active ingredients

Glycolic acid

Keratolytic Action: Salicylic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin by dissolving the intercellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Comedolytic Effect: It is particularly effective in reducing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by unclogging pores and preventing the formation of new comedones.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Salicylic acid reduces inflammation, which is beneficial in treating acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Sebum Regulation: It helps to regulate oil production, making it a valuable ingredient for managing oily and acne-prone skin.
Penetration Enhancement: Due to its lipophilic nature, it can penetrate sebum-filled follicles, effectively treating acne located deep within the pores.

Acne Vulgaris: Salicylic acid is a cornerstone in acne treatment, effectively preventing and treating existing acne lesions.
Psoriasis: Its keratolytic properties make it helpful in softening and removing scales associated with psoriasis.
Warts: Salicylic acid is commonly used to treat warts because it can exfoliate and remove thick skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: It helps manage seborrheic dermatitis by reducing scaling and redness.
Keratosis Pilaris: Salicylic acid can aid in smoothing the rough bumps associated with peratosis Pilaris.

Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., & Thiboutot, D. M. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945-973.e33.
Kornhauser, A., Coelho, S. G., & Hearing, V. J. (2010). Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 3, 135.
Zander, E., & Weisman, S. (1992). Treatment of acne vulgaris with salicylic acid pads. Clinical Therapeutics.
Gupta, A. K., & Nicol, K. (2004). The use of sulfur in dermatology. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Mandelic acid

Keratolytic Action: Salicylic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin by dissolving the intercellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Comedolytic Effect: It is particularly effective in reducing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by unclogging pores and preventing the formation of new comedones.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Salicylic acid reduces inflammation, which is beneficial in treating acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Sebum Regulation: It helps to regulate oil production, making it a valuable ingredient for managing oily and acne-prone skin.
Penetration Enhancement: Due to its lipophilic nature, it can penetrate sebum-filled follicles, effectively treating acne located deep within the pores.

Acne Vulgaris: Salicylic acid is a cornerstone in acne treatment, effectively preventing and treating existing acne lesions.
Psoriasis: Its keratolytic properties make it helpful in softening and removing scales associated with psoriasis.
Warts: Salicylic acid is commonly used to treat warts because it can exfoliate and remove thick skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: It helps manage seborrheic dermatitis by reducing scaling and redness.
Keratosis Pilaris: Salicylic acid can aid in smoothing the rough bumps associated with peratosis Pilaris.

Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., & Thiboutot, D. M. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945-973.e33.
Kornhauser, A., Coelho, S. G., & Hearing, V. J. (2010). Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 3, 135.
Zander, E., & Weisman, S. (1992). Treatment of acne vulgaris with salicylic acid pads. Clinical Therapeutics.
Gupta, A. K., & Nicol, K. (2004). The use of sulfur in dermatology. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Salicylic acid

Keratolytic Action: Salicylic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin by dissolving the intercellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Comedolytic Effect: It is particularly effective in reducing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by unclogging pores and preventing the formation of new comedones.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Salicylic acid reduces inflammation, which is beneficial in treating acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Sebum Regulation: It helps to regulate oil production, making it a valuable ingredient for managing oily and acne-prone skin.
Penetration Enhancement: Due to its lipophilic nature, it can penetrate sebum-filled follicles, effectively treating acne located deep within the pores.

Acne Vulgaris: Salicylic acid is a cornerstone in acne treatment, effectively preventing and treating existing acne lesions.
Psoriasis: Its keratolytic properties make it helpful in softening and removing scales associated with psoriasis.
Warts: Salicylic acid is commonly used to treat warts because it can exfoliate and remove thick skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: It helps manage seborrheic dermatitis by reducing scaling and redness.
Keratosis Pilaris: Salicylic acid can aid in smoothing the rough bumps associated with peratosis Pilaris.

Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., & Thiboutot, D. M. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945-973.e33.
Kornhauser, A., Coelho, S. G., & Hearing, V. J. (2010). Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 3, 135.
Zander, E., & Weisman, S. (1992). Treatment of acne vulgaris with salicylic acid pads. Clinical Therapeutics.
Gupta, A. K., & Nicol, K. (2004). The use of sulfur in dermatology. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Full ingredient list

Aqua, Polyethylene Glycol, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Cocoamidopropyl Betaine, Glycolic acid, Salicylic acid, Mandelic acid, Glyceryl Cocoate, Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Disodium EDTA

Morning & Evening

Application time: Use in the morning and evening.
Frequency: Every day or as per your Dermal Diagnosis regimen instructions.

Sensitive Skin

Unable to tolerate the product in its most potent form yet

Use only in the evening. In the morning, wipe your face with a lukewarm, wet facecloth or microfibre sponge. This will help remove dead skin that the cleanser dissolves and loosens.
Apply cleanser to a wet face. The water will help neutralize the cleanser and decrease its potency. Be careful when applying the cleanser around your eyes, as the water may cause the cleanser to run into your eyes, which will sting. Rather, avoid the eye area and remove eye makeup (if applicable) with your microfibre sponge, using a small drop of cleanser mixed with water and lathered into the sponge.
Keep the cleanser in contact with your skin for 1 minute or shorter.
Remove the cleanser with a clean, lukewarm face cloth or microfibre face sponge. This will also help remove excess makeup and loose, peeling skin.

Resistant Skin

Able to tolerate the product in its most potent form

Use morning and evening.
Apply to dry skin. If you apply your cleanser to dry skin, you can circulate it over your eyes without burning or stinging.
You may want to dampen your fingers slightly to help with spreading. If you have resistant skin, you should not use too much water while cleaning, as water will alter the pH of the cleanser, rendering it less potent.
Keep the cleanser on your skin for 3 minutes or longer.
Remove the cleanser with a clean, lukewarm face cloth or microfibre face sponge. This will also help remove excess makeup and loose, peeling skin.

Tip: Keep the cleanser on your skin while brushing your teeth, bathing, or getting dressed.

renewal cleanser

mode of action

Exfoliation

SALICYLIC ACID

Salicylic acid works by loosening and breaking apart desmosomes (attachments between cells in the outer layers of the skin). This action encourages the exfoliation of dead and damaged skin and the unclogging of pores.
Disrupts cellular junctions to exfoliate dead skin cells.

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GLYCOLIC ACID

Glycolic acid facilitates progressive weakening of cohesion of the intercellular material of the outermost layers of the skin (stratum corneum), resulting in uniform exfoliation.
Disrupts cellular junctions to exfoliate dead skin cells.

Anti-Aging

SALICYLIC ACID

In addition to functioning as an acne treatment, Salicylic acid has anti-aging benefits by brightening the complexion. It acts as an exfoliant by softening and dissolving keratin, thus allowing dead skin cells to shed naturally.
Studies have suggested that salicylic acid's exfoliating properties may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Over time, exfoliation helps to reduce the thickness of the layer of dead skin cells, giving the skin a brighter, more glowing appearance.

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GLYCOLIC ACID

Exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal the newer, brighter layers underneath by acting on the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin). Normal, intact stratum corneum consists of tightly packed layers of tightly bonded dead skin cells. Glycolic acid loosens these bonds. With their glue dissolved by glycolic acid, those tough, rough layers of dead skin cells can more easily slough away.
The small molecular size of glycolic acid allows for deeper penetration into the skin layers, stimulating fibroblasts to produce increased amounts of collagen. This helps the skin feel firmer and minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.

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MANDELIC ACID

Accelerates cell turnover and stimulates collagen production to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Acts as a gentle exfoliant by removing dead skin cells, revealing a smoother, more rejuvenated skin texture.

Control Bacteria

SALICYLIC ACID

Inhibits the production of various aspects necessary for bacterial reproduction, such as fibrinogen, fibronectin, and alpha-hemolysis. Therefore, salicylic acid may neutralize the bacteria C. acnes in the blemishes.

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GLYCOLIC ACID

Glycolic acid exhibits pH-dependent antibacterial activity against C. acnes. At a pH of 3-3.5, glycolic acid kills C. acnes cells by disrupting bacterial cell membranes.

MANDELIC ACID

Demonstrates antibacterial properties, targeting strains commonly associated with acne. Its action against acne-causing bacteria helps maintain a clear and balanced skin environment.

Acne Treatment

SALICYLIC ACID

Salicylic acid reduces sebum secretion.
Salicylic acid has potent anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting the arachidonic acid cascade.
Salicylic acid reduces inflammation by modulating COX2 gene expression to decrease the formation of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

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GLYCOLIC ACID

Reduce acne-related inflammation.
Glycolic acid exhibits pH-dependent antibacterial activity against C. acnes. At a pH of 3-3.5, glycolic acid kills C. acnes cells by disrupting bacterial cell membranes.

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MANDELIC ACID

Reduces acne through gentle exfoliation and sebum regulation.
Provides anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects to reduce redness and inflammation.

Pigmentation Treatment

Inducing chemical exfoliation removes dead, damaged, and discolored skin cells faster from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It drives new skin cells to the surface of the face. This spurred cell renewal helps reveal the healthier, underlying skin and promotes a more even skin tone overall.
Glycolic acid suppresses melanin formation by inhibiting tyrosinase activity.

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MANDELIC ACID

Reduces hyperpigmentation, including age spots, sun spots, and post-acne marks, by inhibiting melanin production.
Gently exfoliates to reveal a more even skin tone over time, helping improve the appearance of discoloration and dark spots.

salicylic acid vs. glycolic acid

Salicylic acid

Lipophilic (oil-soluble), allowing it to penetrate the skin's pores.
Dissolves the intercellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together and penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve excess sebum and dead skin cells, reducing blockages.
Effective in treating acne and blackheads by unclogging pores.
It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action that reduces redness and inflammation associated with acne and rosacea.
Improves the skin texture by exfoliation.

glycolic acid

Hydrophilic (water-soluble) effectively exfoliates the skin's surface layers.
Primarily acts on the skin's surface, dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells on the surface, which helps promote exfoliation and cell regeneration.
Exfoliate the skin, improving texture and revealing brighter, more youthful skin.
Stimulates collagen production, reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Fade hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.