When it comes to exfoliation, you're probably no stranger to physical exfoliators. The small particles (usually beads) that give that sensorially delicious feeling of sloughing away at the impurities on your skin, they usually come in the form of scrubs or are added in smaller amounts to cleansers. Unfortunately, this satisfaction is often short-lived: overuse of physical exfoliators come at the expense of irritated or damaged skin, and they're also unable to get rid of impurities beneath the skin's surface.
Thankfully, those who are looking for a more thorough exfoliation can turn to chemical exfoliators, which work by penetrating the skin's surface to dissolve and dislodge impurities found within pores – truly exfoliating from inside, out. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are one such group of chemical exfoliators. Found in plants and animals, these AHAs are known for a myriad of skin benefits apart from exfoliation – which is why our bestselling Marshmallow Toner is infused with 5 types of plant-derived strains (among other goodies).
Here, explore the individual benefits of natural, plant-derived AHAs in our Marshmallow Toner and how to incorporate them into your daily routine for transformative results.
Glycolic acid
Derived from natural sources like sugarcane, glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture. As mentioned, glycolic acid (like other AHAs) is a type of chemical exfoliator which penetrates the skin's surface to break down the bonds holding impurities within the dermis in place, thus allowing them to dislodge and wash off. Glycolic acid also stimulates collagen production, resulting in firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Regular use of glycolic acid can thus fade hyperpigmentation and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Malic acid
Obtained from fruits like apples and pears, malic acid possesses excellent exfoliating properties, promoting cell turnover and revealing fresher, smoother skin. It helps improve skin tone, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and enhance the overall radiance of the complexion. Malic acid is also known for its hydrating effect, making it suitable for all skin types. The Marshmallow Toner makes use of malic acid derived from the sap of the sugar maple.
Tartaric acid
Also found in the sugar maple, tartaric acid is a gentle exfoliant that aids in removing dead skin cells and promoting a brighter complexion. It has a unique ability to assist in enhancing the absorption of other skincare ingredients, meaning it's a winning addition to any skincare regimen. Apart from that, it also refines the skin's texture and minimises the appearance of pores.
Citric acid
Citric acid is derived from citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. It acts as a natural exfoliant, helping to brighten the skin and fade dark spots. Citric acid also possesses antioxidant properties, protecting the skin against free radicals and promoting a more youthful appearance. It can even help regulate excess oil production, making it beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin.
Lactic acid
Derived from milk, lactic acid is a gentle exfoliator that helps improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and promote a smoother, more even complexion. It also has hydrating properties, making it suitable for those with dry or sensitive skin. Lactic acid aids in stimulating collagen production, resulting in firmer and plumper skin over time. To keep our products vegan, we used lactic acid derived from bilberry, a close relative of the blueberry.
How to incorporate AHAs into your daily routine
Get a generous hit of all the right AHAs in your daily routine with our clean, cruelty-free Marshmallow Toner. This product harnesses the power of natural AHAs as plant enzymes to provide a gentle chemical exfoliation and brighten the skin. The lightweight formula helps refine pores, improve skin texture, and promote a radiant complexion. Use daily to spot the transformative effects of natural AHAs without any harshness or irritation.
Directly after cleansing, press a cotton pad against the dispenser to dampen with the product. Gently swipe the skin with Marshmallow Toner with the cotton pad to evenly coat skin with a layer of product twice a day, after your morning and evening cleanse. Finish the routine by applying a serum and moisturiser of your choice.
