Who doesn't want clear, radiant skin? For some of us, it comes naturally without a lot of effort, but most people have to do some work. Even if you are fortunate to have few skin problems, having a defined skincare routine that includes exfoliation is still a good idea.
Exfoliation is the removal of the top layer of old skin cells to reveal the brand-new skin layer underneath. This is usually accomplished with a tool, like a brush, sponge, or scrub. Exfoliation can also be done chemically with substances like alpha and beta hydroxy acids that gently dissolve the old skin cells.
These are effective methods, but only for some. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) suggests that people with extremely dry or sensitive skin should approach exfoliation with care. It could do more bad than good if you use the wrong products or are too aggressive in your methods.
Let's discuss exfoliating face pads - what should we consider when purchasing, and which are the best to use?
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What to Look for in Exfoliating Face Pads
Exfoliating at home is made many times easier by using exfoliating face pads or wipes that contain chemicals to do the job gently. To minimize the possibility of adverse side effects, here is a brief guide on what to look for in exfoliating face pads.
- Alpha Hydroxy (AHA), Beta Hydroxy (BHA), or both. These both exfoliate, but BHAs are oil-soluble, so they offer additional deep cleaning. AHAs, though a little harsher, can reduce the signs of aging.
- Low alcohol content - this can be drying to the skin.
- Low or no fragrance - this can irritate the skin.
- Sulfate-free
- Acetone free
- Silicone free
- Pads made with bio-degradable materials
Read labels and do your research.
Concentration
Another thing to consider is the concentration of the product you choose. Exfoliation can be overdone, harming your skin's natural barrier and possibly causing long-term damage. Use chemical exfoliants cautiously. Begin with low concentrations, try the product for 60 days at first, and monitor your skin's response. Even lower concentrations can produce great results for you. You can increase the concentration after your skin adjusts.
The Top 5 Exfoliating Face Pads
Our research has shown that these are five of the top exfoliating face pads on the market today.
1. Hydro-Glo Peel Pads
We have to begin the Hydro-Glo Peel Pads in two strengths - one with 10% (daily use strength) and 40% (level 2 strength). These are enhanced with pineapple, licorice, papaya, and bearberry.
Either of these strengths of Hydro-Glo Peel Pads can be for you if you have dark spots, hyperpigmentation, age spots, sun spots, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, dull or dehydrated skin, or keratosis pilaris. They are great for brightening and restoring more youthful skin tones.
The Hydro-Glo Peel Pads 10% works best for sensitive skin and newbie skin-peelers for daily use. But if you want more strength, the Hydro-Glo Peel Pads - level 2, has a 40% acid combination and will brighten and even out your skin tone as it reduces the appearance of scars.
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2. Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads
The Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads contain hyaluronic acid, witch hazel, and AHA for effective, yet gentle, exfoliation. This product uses witch hazel to brighten, smooth, and even out your skin tone while hyaluronic acid hydrates, softens, and plumps your skin. All skin types will be resurfaced with 2.8% glycolic acid and look more radiant in no time. These pads may be used once or twice per day.
3. Go-To Exfoliating Swipeys
Exfoliating Swipeys soak in an all-natural solution formulated to get rid of your dead skin cells and hydrate it. It uses lactic acid (AHA) and hydrating essential oils to do its job. It will also refine your skin texture, minimize the look of aging, and provide steller moisturizing. Rejuvenation of your skin's youthful glow is aided by lactic acid, aloe vera, and other vitamins and nutrients.
This product will work well for all skin types, is vegan, paraben-free, and may be used twice or thrice times a week after cleansing.
4. Kinship Insta Swipe Lemon Honey AHA Pads
The Kinship Insta Swipe Lemon Honey AHA Pads are wafer-thin, compostable pads that smell like fresh lemons and a bit of honey. The key ingredients are:
- Glycolic acid (AHA)
- Antioxidants Manuka honey and lemon
- Probiotics to strengthen the skin barrier
This product will help to brighten and resurface your skin, clear clogged pores, and reduce breakouts. It's safe for all skin types, but it's especially good for acne-prone skin.
The formula is free of harmful ingredients like, parabens, sulfates, silicones, alcohol, chemical sunscreens, and GMOs.
5 First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads
FAB Facial Radiance Pads contain lactic and glycolic acids, along with natural ingredients like cucumber, Indian Gooseberry, lemon peel, and licorice root. These brighten and even your skin tone and boost its clarity while reducing the appearance of fine lines and visible pores. The formula is paraben-free, colorants-free, and doesn't use any other harsh chemicals.
These pads are gentle on your skin because they're infused with aloe and glycerin, making them a perfect choice for sensitive skin.
Related: What is Uneven Skin Texture & How to Fix It
Exfoliate for More Radiant Skin
If you usually skip exfoliation in your skincare routine, you are in for a treat. Exfoliating your skin will leave it brighter, smoother, and more even-toned. Choosing exfoliating pads is an excellent way to do this. They will save time and effort and give you more control over the health of your skin - one day at a time. While cheaper products are on the market, proceed cautiously with those. Low-quality ingredients can damage your skin over time, but better products can make all the difference in achieving the best possible results.
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