Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment with 5% Glycolic Acid review
Glycolic acid is one of the Alpha-Hydroxy-Acids (AHAs) ‘actives’ in skincare and are water-soluble acids that work at the surface-level of the skin to break down the bonds holding dead skin cells. Their job is to exfoliate and get rid of dead skin cells to help with stimulating the production of lovely shiny new ones underneath that make you look all bright and fresh. There are other acids such as Lactic acid which is also an AHA but gentler than Glycolic so a good beginner one if you’re wanting to try exfoliating ‘actives’.
There are also Beta-Hydroxy-Acids (BHAs) - they also exfoliate but are oil-soluble so can go deeper into the skin and are good for congested and blemish-prone skin. Salicylic acid one of the most common BHAs we usually see in skincare (great for spots!)
I’ve been using this Alpha-H Glycolic for years and my skin loves it. It’s in rotation for my night routine and it’s super simple to use as well. It’s great for brightening, evening skin-tone, fine lines and overall skin texture.
What is it meant to do for your skin?
Exfoliates the skin by dissolving the ‘glue’ that holds together the dead skin cells on the surface of our skin so removes that outer layer. In doing this it encourages the natural cell renewal process to get that fresh, bright skin underneath
Helps with collagen stimulation and so firmness and fine lines
Fades hyperpigmentation and contributes to even skin tone
Unclogs pores so can help help with breakouts
Key ingredients:
5% Glycolic Acid - for that lovely skin renewal
Silk Proteins - to help water loss and keep skin feeling smooth
Liquorice Root Extract - anti-irritant and anti-oxidant to help with inflammation and regulating melananin production for pigmentation
Glycerin - to help the skin retain moisture
How I use it:
Only at night, I’d use glycolic maybe two times a week
I pour out into my hands and pat into the skin all over (some people use cotton pads but I just find hands easier)
I don’t really layer this with anything, I like for it to work on its own (there are other products you can layer it with for benefits). The most I miiiight do is spritz some ceramide mist after washing my face then later putting this on before bed. Otherwise I’d cleanse and just put this straight on
Always put it on when face is completely dry
Alwaaysss SPF next day
What I love about it:
I can genuinely see and feel a difference with this, it really does exfoliate and help with revealing bright fresh skin. If my skin is feeling a bit dull then this always does the trick.
What I don't love about it:
Nothing about the product/formulation itself - it’s very watery feeling so initially it can seem like it’s not doing anything but keep at it, it’s working its magic!
Does it clash with anything?
Not that I’ve found yet - but I don’t mix it with much
Where to buy:
Look Fantastic - currently 15% off for the 30ml
Nice alternatives:
Dr Dennis Gross peel pads (review incoming!) I use both products
