If you're looking for a way to revamp your skincare routine and achieve smoother, brighter skin, a chemical exfoliant for the face may be just the thing you need. But before you dive into the world of chemical exfoliants, there are some key factors to consider.
First and foremost, it's important to know your skin type and concerns. Different chemical exfoliants work better for different skin types and concerns, so it's important to choose the right one for you. Additionally, it's important to be aware of the concentration of the exfoliating acids in the product, as well as any potential side effects such as sensitivity or irritation.
Before making your purchase, ask yourself: Have I tried physical exfoliation before and found it to be too harsh? Am I looking for a more even complexion? Do I have any specific skin concerns such as acne or hyperpigmentation? By considering these questions and doing some research on different chemical exfoliants, you can make an informed decision and get the most out of your new skincare addition.
In short, a chemical exfoliant for the face can be a game-changer for achieving smoother, brighter skin. By taking into account factors such as skin type, concerns, and the concentration of exfoliating acids, you can find the right product for you. So why not give it a try and see the benefits for yourself?
10 Best Chemical Exfoliant For Face
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Ideal for gently exfoliating the face to treat blackheads, large pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
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This product is ideal for exfoliating and treating issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines on the face.
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This product is ideal for professional-grade chemical peels that improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and prevent acne.
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This exfoliator with glycolic acid is gentle and ideal for those looking to improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles.
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The product is ideal for exfoliating and improving the appearance of acne scars, dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines.
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This product is ideal for gentle exfoliation of the skin, leaving it smooth and radiant with reduced signs of aging.
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The product is ideal for gentle face exfoliation, creating a youthful and glowing complexion.
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Ideal for exfoliating and treating discoloration on the face and skin using salicylic acid and bioactive fruit acids.
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The product is ideal for exfoliating and improving skin texture with papaya enzyme and salicylic acid.
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10
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The product is ideal for exfoliating the face and reducing dark spots, while promoting skin radiance with citrus extracts.
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1. Clear Skin Elixir: Bha Exfoliant Travel Size
Achieve radiant, youthful, and even-toned skin with Paula's Choice Gentle Non-Abrasive Leave-On Exfoliant. This leave-on exfoliant contains 2% BHA (Beta hydroxy acid) that unclogs and diminishes enlarged pores, exfoliates dead skin cells, smooths wrinkles, and brightens and evens out skin tone. It is specially designed to combat redness, wrinkles, aging, enlarged pores, and blackheads. The non-abrasive formula is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types. This exfoliant helps in hydrating, brightening, and smoothing fine lines, making it perfect for anyone looking for an effective solution to their skincare concerns.
The Beta hydroxy acid (BHA) present in this exfoliant mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores. It is gentle on delicate skin of the face and neck, making it a better alternative to abrasive face scrubs that can cause micro-tears. The BHA leave-on exfoliator delivers hydration while exfoliating directly inside the pore, improving how the pore works. This product is perfect for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective solution to their skincare concerns.
Paula's Choice Skincare products are formulated with effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern, from wrinkles to breakouts. This facial exfoliant is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free of any fluff that doesn't contribute to its effectiveness. The packaging may vary, but the product's quality is always the same.
- Unclogs and diminishes enlarged pores
- Exfoliates dead skin cells
- Smooths wrinkles
- Brightens and evens out skin tone
- Hydrates and smoothens fine lines
- Non-abrasive and gentle on delicate skin
- Daily use on all skin types
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free of any fluff
- Science-backed formulas that target any concern
2. Perfecting Exfoliating Duo For Flawless Skin
Upgrade your exfoliation game with Paula's Choice Exfoliant Duo, which includes both BHA (salicylic acid) and AHA (glycolic acid) products to gently remove dead skin cells and hydrate the skin. These two products complement each other and work together to give you brighter and smoother skin.
The Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant helps unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten the skin tone. It also combats redness, wrinkles, aging, and blackheads. This product is perfect for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, aging, acne or blemish-prone, sensitive, or dull skin.
The Paula's Choice 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant with Glycolic Acid, Chamomile, and Green Tea is specially designed to refine and even the skin tone. It can help minimize the look of discolorations and age spots, and with consistent use, it can increase the skin's firmness. This product is perfect for people who are concerned about uneven skin tone or signs of aging.
Paula's Choice Skincare believes in working smarter, not harder. They offer a wide range of skincare solutions for people with different skin types and concerns. Their products are formulated with science-backed ingredients and are free from fragrance, parabens, and fluff. Say goodbye to the search for amazing skincare, and let Paula's Choice Skincare take care of your skin.
In conclusion, the Paula's Choice Exfoliant Duo is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to upgrade their skincare routine. With two products that complement each other, you can get brighter, smoother, and even-toned skin in no time.
- Includes both BHA (salicylic acid) and AHA (glycolic acid) products to gently remove dead skin cells and hydrate the skin
- The 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant helps unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten the skin tone
- The 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant with Glycolic Acid, Chamomile, and Green Tea is specially designed to refine and even the skin tone
- Suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, aging, acne or blemish-prone, sensitive, or dull skin
- Paula's Choice Skincare offers a wide range of skincare solutions for people with different skin types and concerns
- Their products are formulated with science-backed ingredients and are free from fragrance, parabens, and fluff
3. Retinol-Infused Glycolic Peel For Flawless Skin
Looking for a powerful yet gentle exfoliant to rid your skin of excess oils and dirt, making your pores look firm and toned? Look no further than the YEOUTH Glycolic Acid 30% Professional Gel Peel with Retinol & Green Tea. Made in the USA and owned by a cosmetic chemist, this natural and paraben-free peel is dermatology tested and all your skin needs from our fountain of YEOUTH!
This AHA BHA exfoliant is perfect for both men and women, and should be applied after using a face wash cleanser and toner. Simply apply the Glycolic Acid peeling gel, being sure to not leave it on your face for more than 8 minutes. Then, wash your face thoroughly and apply your favorite moisturizer. Use this chemical peel once a month for best results.
Not only is this Glycolic Acid peel an extraordinary facial peel for dark spots, black heads, and acne, but it also works great when used regularly with other YEOUTH anti-aging skin care products for skin clarity. Say goodbye to blemishes, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots in no time!
And don't worry, if for any reason you decide this product isn't the right fit for you, YEOUTH offers an extended 90-day money-back guarantee. The expiration date is printed on the barcode sticker attached to the packaging.
- Powerful yet gentle exfoliant
- Natural and paraben-free
- Dermatology tested
- Works great when used regularly with other YEOUTH anti-aging skin care products
- Extended 90-day money-back guarantee
- – Should not be left on face for more than 8 minutes
- – Should only be used once a month
4. Smooth Operator Exfoliating 8% Aha Gel
Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant with Glycolic Acid, Chamomile, and Green Tea is a non-abrasive leave-on exfoliator that gently removes dull skin to reveal the natural radiance underneath. This unique lightweight gel revitalizes the skin's surface and prepares it to receive moisture, keeping the skin hydrated by removing dead cells. It also helps minimize the look of discolorations, age spots, and increases skin's firmness with consistent use.
This chemical exfoliator is gentler on the delicate skin of the face and neck than an abrasive face scrub, which can cause micro-tears. It delivers hydration and can reach the deeper, built up layers of dead skin that scrubs don't. The formula contains glycolic acid, which exfoliates and brightens the skin, while chamomile soothes and green tea provides antioxidant protection.
Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is easy to use. Simply apply after cleansing and toning twice daily. Its sustainable packaging demonstrates the brand's pledge to the planet by removing extra plastic from shipping boxes, like shrink wrap.
Paula's Choice Skincare is known for its effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. The brand does not use fragrance, parabens, or fluff in its products.
- Non-abrasive leave-on exfoliator that gently removes dull skin, revealing the natural radiance underneath
- Revitalizes the skin's surface and prepares it to receive moisture, keeping the skin hydrated by removing dead cells
- Helps minimize the look of discolorations, age spots, and increases skin's firmness with consistent use
- Contains glycolic acid, which exfoliates and brightens the skin, while chamomile soothes and green tea provides antioxidant protection
- Easy to use and sustainable packaging demonstrates the brand's pledge to the planet by removing extra plastic from shipping boxes, like shrink wrap
- Paula's Choice Skincare is known for its effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts
- Does not use fragrance, parabens, or fluff in its products
5. Glow Peel: Ebanel's Ultimate Exfoliant Gel
Achieving healthy and radiant skin has never been easier with this exfoliating peel gel. Formulated with a combination of 30% AHA, 2% Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Mandelic Acid, it offers a powerful chemical peel treatment that helps eliminate acne scars, dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. The peeling gel also contains brightening Vitamin C, anti-inflammatory Green Tea and Chamomile, and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid that work together to brighten, soften, and smooth out the skin.
This AHA BHA exfoliant peeling gel penetrates deeper to remove excess sebum and impurities, unclog pores, and minimize blackheads, cystic acne, and prevent future breakouts. It helps promote collagen production and accelerate natural skin cell turnover, tightening and firming the skin. This peel gel comes in a convenient gel format, and no neutralizer is needed to apply it.
However, users may experience a slight burning sensation and redness, so it is highly recommended to do a patch test. This product is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, formulated and bottled in the USA, cGMP certified, oil-free, and fragrance-free.
- Contains a powerful combination of AHA, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid and Mandelic Acid to remove acne scars, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles
- Infused with brightening Vitamin C, anti-inflammatory Green Tea and Chamomile, and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid to brighten, soften and smooth out the skin
- Penetrates deeper to remove excess sebum and impurities, unclogging pores and minimizing blackheads, cystic acne and prevents future breakouts
- Promotes collagen production and accelerates natural skin cell turnover to tighten and firm the skin
- Convenient gel format with no neutralizer needed to apply
- – May cause a slight burning sensation and redness, so patch test is highly recommended
6. Travel-Friendly Aha Gel Exfoliant By Paula's Choice
The Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant with Glycolic Acid, Chamomile, and Green Tea is a non-abrasive leave-on exfoliator that gently removes dull skin, revealing the radiance that lies underneath. Its unique lightweight gel formula helps revitalize the skin's surface and keep it hydrated by removing dead cells and preparing it to receive moisture. It can also help minimize the look of discolorations and age spots, and with consistent use, it can increase the skin's firmness.
This chemical exfoliator contains glycolic acid, chamomile, and green tea, which are naturally potent ingredients that deliver the desired results. The antioxidant properties of green tea and other natural ingredients, combined with the soothing power of chamomile, help to calm and nourish the skin. The exfoliating benefits of glycolic acid also help to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and leave skin soft, smooth, and radiant.
The Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is ideal for those with delicate skin on the face and neck as it is gentler than abrasive scrubs that can cause micro-tears. Unlike scrubs, this AHA exfoliator delivers hydration and can also reach the deeper layers of built-up dead skin that scrubs can't. It is recommended to use after the cleanser and toner, twice daily, for the best results.
Paula's Choice Skincare is a brand that is known for its effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern, from wrinkles to breakouts. The SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant is free from fragrance, parabens, and fluff, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin. With consistent use, this product can help to reveal clearer, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin.
- Non-abrasive leave-on exfoliator
- Gently removes dull skin
- Revitalizes skin's surface and helps keep skin hydrated
- Contains glycolic acid, chamomile, and green tea
- Minimizes the look of discolorations and age spots
- Increases skin's firmness with consistent use
- Ideal for delicate skin on face and neck
- Delivers hydration and reaches deeper layers of dead skin
- Free from fragrance, parabens, and fluff
- Reveals clearer, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin
7. Glowing Youthful Cleanser By E.l.f. Skin
Introducing the Gentle Peeling Exfoliant cleanser, a gentle exfoliating formula that helps to remove dead skin cells and leaves you with healthy and glowing skin. This cleanser is enriched with the goodness of tangerine, papaya, and licorice extracts that are known for their skin benefits. The exfoliant is easy to use and can be a perfect addition to your skincare routine. Simply dampen your hands and skin, apply a small amount of cleanser onto your face and gently massage in circular motions. Rinse with water and follow up with your favorite moisturizer. It is recommended to use this exfoliant 2-3 times per week to achieve the best results.
e.l.f. Cosmetics takes pride in being 100% vegan and cruelty-free, worldwide. This Gentle Peeling Exfoliant cleanser is no exception. All e.l.f. products are made from skin-loving ingredients that are good for you, and are available at affordable prices. The brand is also leaping bunny certified, which ensures that their products are not tested on animals. e.l.f. Cosmetics believes that beauty should be accessible to everyone, and their products are designed to provide professional-quality results at get-real prices.
- Gently peels away dead skin to reveal healthy-looking skin
- Enriched with the goodness of tangerine, papaya, and licorice extracts
- Easy to use and can be a perfect addition to your skincare routine
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free, worldwide
- Made from skin-loving ingredients that are good for you
- Available at affordable prices
- Leaping bunny certified
8. Fruit-Acid Infused Skin Treatment: Naturium Bha Liquid!
The Naturium Leave-On Exfoliant is a highly effective formula designed to combat aging and blemishes. This leave-on exfoliant is enriched with Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), which is gentle enough for daily use and mimics the natural exfoliation process of young skin. It helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, unclog pores, and reduce discoloration, while balancing oil production and boosting moisture retention.
The powerful yet non-irritating formula contains microencapsulated salicylic acid and a bioactive fruit complex that work together to provide exceptional results. The formula is free of irritating fragrances and contains natural ingredients that are pH level appropriate and thoroughly tested for safety.
The Naturium Leave-On Exfoliant is cruelty-free, paraben-free, vegan, gluten-free, fragrance-free, and non-toxic. The product is made with high-quality botanical, earth, and marine-based ingredients combined with non-toxic-to-skin alternatives and advanced science. The clean formulation ensures that the product is safe for all skin types.
If you are not 100% satisfied with the Naturium Leave-On Exfoliant, the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. No questions asked! Try it risk-free today and experience the benefits of this powerful and effective exfoliant formula.
- Contains Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that mimics the natural exfoliation process of young skin
- Helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, unclog pores, and reduce discoloration
- Balances oil production and boosts moisture retention
- Contains microencapsulated salicylic acid and a bioactive fruit complex
- Free of irritating fragrances
- Cruelty-free, paraben-free, vegan, gluten-free, fragrance-free, and non-toxic
- Made with high-quality botanical, earth, and marine-based ingredients combined with non-toxic-to-skin alternatives and advanced science
- Suitable for all skin types
- – None
9. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, 0.45 Oz – Face Scrub Powder With Papaya Enzyme And Salicylic Acid
Achieve brighter and smoother skin with this exfoliating facial scrub. It effectively removes dulling surface debris, evens skin tone, and clears out pores for a rejuvenated look. This scrub is gentle enough for daily use, making it a perfect addition to your skincare routine. To use, simply dispense about a half-teaspoon into wet hands and rub them together to create a creamy paste. Then, apply the paste to your face in circular motions, avoiding the eye area.
- Removes dulling surface debris
- Evens skin tone and clears out pores
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Leaves skin brighter and smoother
10. Radiance Honey Exfoliating Face Wash
Blithe Patting Splash Mask is a Korean traditional face wash that is inspired by the Korean skincare routine. It is a unique facial wash that serves both as a face exfoliant and a hydrating facial mask. This innovative product is designed to unclog pores, smooth bumps, and vitalize the skin. It helps to control pores, promote glowing skin, and balance the tone of the skin, preventing blemishes and dark spots from occurring.
The formulation of 5-AHA multi-fruit acids (conc. 20%) contains 15% Lactic acid and Glycolic acid that work as natural exfoliators. These acids help to remove dead skin cells, smoothen rough skin texture, and unclog and minimize enlarged pores. The Honey & Citrus fruit extracts are rich in natural acids and Vitamin C, which tone balance the skin and brighten the complexion.
Blithe Patting Splash Mask is gentle and effective, making it perfect for people with sensitive skin. Unlike other harsh peeling treatments, this natural lactic acid peel formula has a balanced pH, ideal for people with sensitive skin. It gently exfoliates without scrubbing and irritating the skin while hydrating and vitalizing it with Honey and Vitamin C.
The product is safe to use for people with sensitive skin as it is not tested on animals and contains no parabens, sulfates, formaldehyde, mineral oil, urea, BHT, TEA, or phthalates. It is a perfect skincare product to achieve healthy, glowing skin with a balanced tone and unclogged pores.
- An innovative facial wash that serves as both a face exfoliant and a hydrating facial mask.
- Helps to unclog pores, smooth bumps, and vitalize the skin.
- Formulated with 5-AHA multi-fruit acids, Honey and Citrus fruit extracts, Lactic acid, and Glycolic acid that work as natural exfoliators and tone balancers.
- Gentle and effective for sensitive skin, with a balanced pH that helps to exfoliate without scrubbing and irritating the skin while hydrating and vitalizing it with Honey and Vitamin C.
- Safe to use for people with sensitive skin, as it is free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, formaldehyde, mineral oil, urea, BHT, TEA, or phthalates.
Best Chemical Exfoliant For Face FAQs
Are there any potential side effects of using a chemical exfoliant for the face?
Yes, there are potential side effects of using a chemical exfoliant for the face. Chemical exfoliants use acids such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. However, these acids can also cause skin irritation, redness, and dryness if used incorrectly or too frequently. Over-exfoliation can damage the skin barrier and lead to increased sensitivity, breakouts, and even hyperpigmentation. It’s important to start with lower concentrations and gradually build up to stronger formulas, and to always follow the instructions on the product label. It’s also recommended to patch test on a small area of skin before using it on the entire face. If you experience any discomfort or adverse reactions, it’s best to stop using the product and consult with a dermatologist. Overall, chemical exfoliants can be a beneficial addition to a skincare routine, but it’s important to use them correctly and in moderation.
Can chemical exfoliants be used on all skin types?
Chemical exfoliants such as AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) are popular for their ability to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture. However, it is important to note that not all skin types may benefit from chemical exfoliants.
While chemical exfoliants can work well for oily or acne-prone skin, they may not be suitable for those with sensitive or dry skin. AHAs can be more irritating to the skin and may cause redness or dryness, while BHAs may cause excessive drying.
It is always recommended to patch test a product before applying it to your entire face. Additionally, it is important to follow the instructions on the product and not over-exfoliate, as this can lead to skin irritation and damage.
In summary, chemical exfoliants can be used on all skin types, but it is important to choose the right product for your skin type and use it in moderation to avoid any adverse effects. It is always best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized advice.
How often should a chemical exfoliant be used on the face?
Chemical exfoliants are a great way to keep your face looking fresh and youthful. However, it's important to use them correctly in order to avoid damaging your skin. So, how often should you use a chemical exfoliant on your face?
The answer to this question really depends on your skin type and the specific product you're using. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to limit your use of chemical exfoliants to once or twice a week. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may be able to use them more frequently – up to three times a week.
It's also important to pay attention to the strength of the chemical exfoliant you're using. If it's a stronger product, you may want to use it less frequently to avoid over-exfoliating your skin.
Ultimately, the best way to determine how often to use a chemical exfoliant is to listen to your skin. If you notice any redness, irritation, or discomfort after using the product, back off and use it less frequently. On the other hand, if your skin looks and feels great after using the product, you can probably continue to use it as directed.
What are the benefits of using a chemical exfoliant for the face?
Chemical exfoliants are a popular skincare product that can help improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin. Unlike physical exfoliants, which use abrasive particles to remove dead skin cells, chemical exfoliants use acids such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores.
One of the main benefits of using a chemical exfoliant is that it can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as improve skin tone and texture. Chemical exfoliants can also help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, as well as improve the overall brightness and radiance of the skin.
Another benefit of using a chemical exfoliant is that it can help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. By removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, chemical exfoliants can help to reduce the amount of oil and bacteria on the skin, which can lead to fewer breakouts and clearer skin.
Overall, chemical exfoliants can be a great addition to your skincare routine if you're looking to improve the appearance and texture of your skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and prevent breakouts. However, it's important to choose the right type of chemical exfoliant for your skin type and to use it in moderation to avoid irritation or damage to the skin.
Which ingredients are commonly used in chemical exfoliants for the face?
Chemical exfoliants are becoming increasingly popular in skincare routines, and for good reason. They work by using acids to dissolve dead skin cells, revealing brighter and smoother skin. There are several types of chemical exfoliants, but the most commonly used ingredients are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).
AHAs are water-soluble acids derived from fruits and milk. Some of the most popular AHAs used in skincare include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid. They work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed from the surface of the skin.
BHAs, on the other hand, are oil-soluble acids that penetrate deeper into the pores. The most common BHA used in skincare is salicylic acid. It works by dissolving the sebum and dead skin cells that can clog pores, preventing breakouts and blackheads.
Other ingredients that may be used in chemical exfoliants include enzymes such as papain and bromelain, which are derived from papaya and pineapple respectively. These enzymes work by breaking down the proteins that hold dead skin cells together.
When choosing a chemical exfoliant, it's important to consider your skin type and concerns, as well as the concentration of the active ingredients. It's also important to use sunscreen daily, as chemical exfoliants can increase sun sensitivity.