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Resurface and protect skin for an unprecedented glow.
Visibly reduces fine lines
Reverses a compromised skin barrier
Renews skin below the surface for healthier cell turnover
6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant is a complex of gentle alpha hydroxy acids that resurface & shed built-up layers of dead skin. This unique formula visibly rejuvenates the skin’s ability to renew and disrupts discolouration without causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation on deeper skin tones. This exfoliant has an optimal pH range of 3.0-4.0.
Illuminate, hydrate and protect your skin with Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30. This lightweight day cream features an exclusive Anti Pollution Factor blend with over a dozen plant- and vitamin-powered antioxidants to neutralise the effects of environmental pollutants and blue light. Mineral sun filters protect the skin from UV rays, while an innovative brightening mix – including liquorice and resveratrol – brightens the complexion, improving uneven skin tone and dark spots.
A weightless liquid exfoliant that resurfaces texture & tone, gently.
This day cream with SPF 30 brightens, hydrates and protects against pollution and UV rays.
When using an AHA exfoliant for the first time, introduce it into your routine slowly. Start by using your exfoliant once every other day, and then increase usage to once or twice daily based on your skin’s response. Apply once or twice daily after cleansing and toning. Apply a grape-sized amount over the entire face, including the eye area (avoid the lower lash line and eyelids). Do not rinse.
Apply the Essential Glow Moisturizer SPF 30 as the last step in your morning routine. Allow a moment to dry before applying make-up.
If you are new to chemical exfoliants and/or have sensitive skin, it’s always best to gradually introduce this type of product into your routine. Start slowly, monitor your skin and adjust accordingly. During the day, always use a moisturiser with a broad-spectrum sun cream rated SPF 30 or greater. The perception of smell can vary greatly between individuals, so what one person notices, another may not notice at all. Many customers find that they quickly get used to the unique scents of Paula's Choice products and that the benefits outweigh any potential drawbacks.
While Paula’s Choice AHA exfoliants each deliver amazing results with their own distinctive qualities, this formula is our first water-light, ultra-gentle AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) liquid that goes beyond surface exfoliation to deliver an array of benefits, including skin renewal and improved skin barrier function. This is due to our unique combination of mandelic and lactic acid plus yarrow extract and a fermented blend of antioxidant plant extracts. This lightweight, leave-on exfoliant provides skin with an advanced combination of ingredients that softens rough skin, brightens a dull complexion and nourishes the skin’s microbiome for healthier, more fortified skin.
With the success of our other exfoliants, we saw an opportunity to expand our AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) collection which to date has relied heavily on the use of glycolic acid. We also wanted to go beyond AHA’s primary benefits of surface exfoliation to offer a product that delivers skin renewal and microbiome benefits. This formula is our first liquid AHA and one of the gentlest exfoliants we offer.
We chose larger-molecule mandelic acid and time-released lactic acid in this formula because of their ability to gently revive the skin’s natural shedding process while also supporting the skin’s barrier and microbiome. Each provides a slow and gentle penetration into the skin while strengthening the skin’s barrier and supporting ceramide production (a key component to strong, healthy skin).
Using both the SKIN PERFECTING 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant and a Paula’s Choice BHA (beta hydroxy acid) in your routine can target skin concerns like sun damage, deep wrinkles, clogged pores, bumps and dull, flaky skin even faster. Many prefer alternating these exfoliants to address their specific needs, but everyone’s skin is different. For additional information how to use multiple exfoliants in your routine, please contact our customer care team.
No, the SKIN PERFECTING 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant contains an array of skin-beneficial ingredients that play nicely with all other products and ingredients. In fact, this product (along with all Paula’s Choice exfoliants) can help improve the absorption of other skincare products by helping to remove the built-up outer layer of dry, dead skin to allow serums, moisturisers and other treatments to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
Most will find that they can use this ultra-gentle exfoliant daily – even if new to AHAs. The unique combination of synthetic mandelic acid, time-released lactic acid plus a wealth of skin-friendly fermented and soothing micronutrients makes it a great option for first-time users or those who’ve been sensitive to other AHA products in the past. If you are new to chemical exfoliants and/or have sensitive skin, it’s always best to gradually introduce this type of product into your routine. Start slowly, monitor your skin and adjust accordingly. During the day, always use a moisturiser with a broad-spectrum sun cream rated SPF 30 or greater.
Yes, the SKIN PERFECTING 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant is considered our most gentle AHA. It’s formulated with antioxidants and soothing ingredients which is even suitable for those with symptoms of rosacea such as redness, sensitivity and skin that feels dry, tight or uncomfortable. We recommend starting slowly, monitoring your skin and adjusting accordingly. During the day, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or greater.
In addition to offering mineral sun protection, Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer contains a unique blend of antioxidants specially chosen to counter the harmful effects of environmental pollution and blue light. This day cream has a silky texture and is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.