It’s no secret that exfoliation is one of the keys to smooth, fresh, glowing skin, but between physical exfoliation, chemical exfoliation, frequency, and sensitivity, the tricky part is figuring out exactly when to incorporate what. Luckily, we’re here to take the guesswork out of gentle, daily exfoliation. It’s all in the formula.
“The 3+2+1 blend of 3% AHA mandelic acid, 2% BHA salicylic acid, and 1% PHA gluconolactone in the brand new Mandelic Acid + Superfood Unity Exfoliant all work together to smooth skin, control congestion, brighten, and assist with reducing the visible pore size over time,” says Jacob Tomas del Rosario, Director of Field and Education, North America at Youth To The People.
The Unity Exfoliant is a leave-on liquid exfoliating solution with a water-like consistency that gets the job of gentle exfoliation done. Mandelic acid gently lifts dull surface skin cells, smoothing texture and evening tone, while salicylic acid exfoliates the skin’s surface and removes gunk from pores to prevent breakouts. Gluconolactone boosts cell turnover and hydration to strengthen the moisture barrier.
One of the things that makes the Unity Exfoliant truly unique is its triple threat of exfoliants. Despite its efficacy, the product is gentle enough for daily use.
“The blend of three gentle yet effective acids work in unity with the superfood antioxidants to smooth skin texture, visibly minimize pores, brighten and help to clear congestion, while still maintaining the health and integrity of the skin,” del Rosario says. “Of course, in true YTTP fashion, we wanted to add in additional benefits of the mega antioxidant profile in our superfood blend, glucosamine, which supports both hydration and brightening, and licorice root, which is known for helping to fade the look of dark spots and soothe.”
The Unity Exfoliant was designed to work for everyone.
“Truly, all skin types would benefit from the gentle exfoliation that the Unity Exfoliant offers,” del Rosario says. “If you are a reactive or sensitive skin type, or if you are not accustomed to incorporating a chemical exfoliant in your routine, I would start with using just once a week. Of course, build your tolerance and listen to your skin’s feel and visual response. Each of the acids was truly selected with the most sensitive skin in mind.”
As long as your skin can handle it, you can use it daily, but it’s also important to consider the other exfoliation steps you have in your current routine, both chemical and physical.
“Due to the gentle profile of acids, you will be less likely to react; however, I would be conscious about what other AHA and BHA products are in your routine, and your cadence of use,” del Rosario says. “I would also space out the use of retinol-based products in your routine by taking a rest on AHA/BHA products immediately following the evening that you incorporate retinol into your routine.” If you have any questions, you can always ask your esthetician or dermatologist for personalized advice, or schedule a free 15-minute Skin Session for personalized advice on your routine.
The best way to apply the Unity Exfoliant is to use it after freshly cleansing your skin with the Superfood Cleanser. Drop at least two to three splashes of the Unity Exfoliant onto a reusable cotton round and sweep a thin layer of the Unity Exfoliant over the face, neck, and décolleté.
“I like to wait a minute or two before applying my treatment serum and moisturizer, letting the beautiful cocktail of acids do their work,” del Rosario says.
Read more: why you should exfoliate before using vitamin C.
After that...
“Always, always, always, protect your skin with SPF daily,” del Rosario says. “The profile of AHA, BHA, and PHA in the Unity Exfoliant will reveal smoother skin for all skin types and assist with controlling the congestion that can be present even in the most stubborn areas, like around the nose, chin, and forehead. By cleansing before, you are prepping the skin to receive the benefits of exfoliation, and exfoliation will give your treatment serum a much clearer delivery into the skin. Personally, I love the 15% Vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy Serum immediately following the Unity Exfoliant, followed by the Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream to hydrate and soothe. Chef’s kiss!”
Written by Celia Shatzman for Youth To The People
