Great for: Normal, sensitive, dry, reactive or compromised skins
Why it’s Vogue approved: You might have tried Dr Gross’s Alpha Beta peel pads, but if they were too strong for you, try these. They’re the unsung hero of his range – mostly because they’re much gentler but still just as easy to use and incredibly effective too. You swipe the first acid-infused sachet over your face, then follow with the second, which helps to soothe the skin post-exfoliation. Easy to travel with and brighten on the go, I’m a huge fan.
Exuviance HydraSoothe Refresh Toner
Exuviance HydraSoothe Refresh Toner
Key ingredients: Gluconolactone, hyaluronic acid and botanicals
Great for: Sensitive, reactive and dry skin types
Why it’s Vogue approved: Incredibly gentle and hydrating, this is an excellent option for anyone wanting to ensure their skin barrier isn’t compromised; it is one of Paterson’s favourites. You’ll notice a fresh, luminous appearance, while skin is soothed thanks to aloe, cucumber and chamomile extract. This one’s on my wishlist.
Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment
Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment
Key ingredients: 5% glycolic acid, liquorice root extract and silk proteins
Great for: Mature, combination and oily skin types
Why it’s Vogue approved: The brand says that this is Alpha-H exfoliant is the closest you can get to a clinical-grade skin treatment at home. It is brilliant for skin renewal, plus the glycolic acid in the formula helps stimulate collagen production. If you’re someone concerned with tone, texture and laxity concerns, it’s a great one for you, however those with more sensitive skins may want to steer clear of glycolic.
iS Clinical Active Peel System
iS Clinical Active Peel System
Key ingredients: Mixed fruit acids, extremozymes, glycolic acid and copper tripeptide
Great for: Normal, oily, combination, mature and dry skin types
Why it’s Vogue approved: With 15 treatment sets in one box, this iS Clinical peel should only be used once a week because it does a rigorous job of working on large or congested pores, rough skin texture and fine lines and wrinkles. A two-step treatment, your skin will also enjoy the benefits of copper tripeptide, which helps reduce the signs of premature ageing.
FAQs:
How often should I use a liquid exfoliator?
The answer to this really depends on your skin and its needs, but there are some general rules that can be helpful. “Oily skin needs more exfoliation, so I always recommend my clients exfoliate as often as their skin needs – that could be every other day,” explains Vico. “For normal and dry skins, it may be more like once or twice a week.” Don’t go overboard because too much exfoliation quickly leads to an impaired skin barrier, which can cause redness, dryness, acne and myriad other skin issues.
Pay attention to how your skin feels post-exfoliant. If it’s feeling uncomfortable, steer clear of using it again too soon –and don’t forget that using a flannel or muslin cloth also helps exfoliate the skin. I personally rely on muslin cloths to remove most of my dead cells day to day, then incorporate a liquid exfoliator once every seven to 10 days because that’s all my skin needs. Work out what is effective for you and do that.
Where does a liquid exfoliator fit into my routine?
You can use them morning and night. After cleansing, “soak a cotton pad in the exfoliant then sweep it over your face, neck and décolletage, then apply your serum, moisturiser and an SPF if it’s morning,” recommends Paterson. If you’re doing it at night, remove the SPF step.
Are liquid exfoliators good for sensitive skin?
Yes, you just need to find the right one. As mentioned, look for formulas that utilise PHAs and hydrating ingredients, and pair with ceramide-rich creams to ensure the skin barrier is well looked after.
