Chemical exfoliators are gentler and more effective for skin.
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Regular exfoliation is vital to improve your skin’s texture. From toners to serums and masks, here are some chemical exfoliators that will help improve skin texture, unclog pores, and enhance radiance without harsh scrubbing.
A cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen are essential products in everyone’s skincare routine, but an exfoliator is an unsung hero that can make a huge difference. Regular exfoliation improves skin’s texture, makes sure other products penetrate better, and ultimately work more effectively. While scrubs can cause irritation and micro-tears in the skin, chemical exfoliators are gentler and even more effective.
If you also want to achieve smoother, brighter, and more even-toned skin, here are five chemical exfoliators worth adding to your routine:
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
With 2 per cent BHA (Beta hydroxy acid), this liquid exfoliant unclogs and diminishes enlarged pores, exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces wrinkles, and evens out skin tone. It has a unique leave-on formula that exfoliates dead skin cells while clearing pores for a more even tone. The BHA, also known as salicylic acid, mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers. Whether your skin is dry, oily, combination, aging, acne or blemish-prone, sensitive, or dull, this product is gentle enough to be used daily.
The product is available for Rs 1,200.
Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum For Beginners
This serum helps diminish dark spots and enhances radiance. It exfoliates gently, using a uses a balanced composition of AHAs (glycolic acid & lactic acid) as well as BHAs (salicylic acid). The product sinks into the skin easily and removes dead skin cells without leaving behind any dryness.
The serum uses hyaluronic acid and aloe to exfoliate dead cells.
Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask
This pink clay resurfacing mask detoxifies and reduces pore size without stripping the skin. It is made using 18 ingredients to improve the skin’s radiance and texture. Pomegranate enzymes, white willow bark, beetroot extract, and calendula are at the heart of this product. Beet extract promotes hydration in the outer layers of the skin to increase elasticity, while the white willow extract gently exfoliates, relieves red skin and refreshes appearance. Wondering how to use it? Apply a thick layer of the mask three times per week, leave it on for 20 minutes for an unmatched glow-up.
White willow bark, beetroot extract, and calendula are at the heart of this mask.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
This exfoliating toner smoothens skin texture, visibly evens tone, and enhances luminosity with daily use. Powered by 7 per cent glycolic acid, it promotes even looking skin tone, while reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles, and boosting radiance. It contains Tasmanian pepper berry, along with aloe and ginseng, and can also be applied to the scalp to hydrate and rebalance dry scalp skin.
It is available for Rs 900 on Amazon.
Beauty of Joseon Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel Soft Exfoliating Face and Body Scrub
Unveil your skin’s natural radiance with this Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel. This exfoliator, enriched with 19 per cent plum tree flowers, provides a rich source of antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids that promote clearer and more moisturised skin. It is also formulated with 8 per cent plant-derived cellulose extracted from cotton to ensure a thorough cleanse. Perfect for all skin types, this Korean beauty essential focuses on acne, pores, and uneven texture.
This scrub has 8 per cent plant-derived cellulose extracted from cotton.
What are the benefits of chemical exfoliators compared to scrubs?
Chemical exfoliators use acids like BHA or glycolic acid to gently dissolve dead skin cells without causing irritation or micro-tears, unlike scrubs which can be harsh. They improve skin texture, enhance product absorption, and are generally suitable for sensitive skin while providing effective exfoliation.
What are the main types of chemical exfoliators?
There are three types of exfoliators: AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) and PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids). The AHAs are water-soluble, best for surface-level exfoliation, dry skin, and anti-aging, while BHAs are oil-soluble, penetrating deeper into pores to treat acne and blackheads. The PHAs, on the other hand, are large molecules that offer gentle exfoliation, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
How should I choose a chemical exfoliator based on my skin type?
For oily or acne-prone skin, a BHA exfoliant like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid is ideal for unclogging pores. Sensitive skin should opt for gentle formulations such as Beauty of Joseon Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel with natural exfoliants.
Can I use chemical exfoliators daily and what is the recommended frequency?
Daily use is possible with gentle exfoliants like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid. More intensive products such as Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask should be used up to three times per week. Always follow product instructions and monitor your skin’s reaction to avoid irritation.
Are these chemical exfoliators safe and dermatologist-approved?
Yes, products are developed with dermatologists and are non-comedogenic, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. Using chemical exfoliators as directed ensures safety, though patch testing is advised for sensitive or reactive skin.
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