Balance is key when it comes to exfoliation; overuse of powerful AHAs everyday can often lead to sensitisation of the skin and premature skin ageing due to the skin’s inability to repair itself. PHAs are made up of larger molecules than AHAs and BHAs, meaning they do not penetrate into the skin as deeply and instead exfoliate the surface of the skin. This makes PHAs the perfect match for those even with sensitive skin, who want to achieve true daily exfoliation while keeping the skin barrier healthy.

1. Gluconolactone is a high-performing PHA which breaks down the glue between dead skin cells whilst effortlessly hydrating the skin due to its humectant (water-loving) properties, ensuring the skin remains cool and comfortable after use. It breaks down the bonds between dead skin cells allowing them to shed off with ease, restoring both texture and tone; unveiling that enviable skin glow. Gluconolactone is clinically proven to work perfectly in partnership with vitamin A^[1], as it can aid the absorption of vitamin A and get the gold-standard anti-ageing ingredient to exactly where it is needed in the skin.

2. Prickly pear extract helps to boost the activity of natural exfoliation enzymes, allowing the skin exfoliation cycle to return to a more youthful pace. This again works well in conjunction with vitamin A for all round skin cell rejuvenation. While the enzymes help to restore the natural exfoliation in the upper layers of the skin, vitamin A helps to boost cell regeneration from the lower layers of the epidermis.

3. Aloe vera and acai extract use their calming properties to visibly take down inflammation and irritation, whilst hydrating the skin.
   
   ^[1]  B. Green et al, Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) Provide Conditioning Effects to Skin Without Increasing Sensitivity to UV Light, American Academy of Dermatology Poster Exhibit: New Orleans, LA, February 22-27, 2002.