After finally sorting the root cause of my painful adult cystic acne, all thanks to Pore-Favor’s clear skin supplements (you can read all about that here). I wanted to find a product to help brighten my overall complexion; reduce any old acne scaring, and even out my skin tone – not asking for much, eh?
This was when I started to learn a bit more about AHA’s & BHA’s. Both of which are a type of acid (chemical) exfoliator.
Although acid exfoliants sound way scarier compared to a good old fashioned manual grit exfoliant. Surprisingly, they’re actually a gentler way to exfoliate your skin. Mainly because they cause less irritation to your skin’s barrier; opposed to the sharp, abrasive particles found in a facial scrub.
That being said, they need to be used with caution. Especially if you’ve not used them before, or you have sensitive skin. Chemical exfoliators, if used incorrectly, could leave you with red, sore, irritated skin. Use them right though, and you’ll have that gorgeous healthy glow we’re all lusting for.
In this article...
What are AHA’s & BHA’s?
AHA stands for Alpha-hydroxy acids. These are water-soluble chemical exfoliants, which aid in removing excess dirt, oil and dead skin cells. This, in turn, allows all your other skin care products to penetrate your skin so much better. AHA’s also help with acne scars, pesky fine lines, and reducing pore size.
BHA stands for Beta-hydroxy acids. These are oil-soluble chemical exfoliants which can get deeper into the pores, and are great for balancing out oil production. Perfect for helping get rid of those annoying blackheads and clogged pores.
Our skin naturally exfoliates dead skin cells all by itself. Sadly though, thanks to sun damage and symptoms of ageing. This process slows down, resulting in an array of unwanted issues: dull, flaky skin; wrinkles, bumps and an uneven skin tone. But do not fret, not all is lost! Adding a chemical exfoliant to your skincare routine can help speed up cell renewal, resulting in clear, radiant skin.
Ready, Steady, Glow
Ren’s ready, steady, glow daily tonic promised to target all my concerns, plus the added bonus of working some magic on fine lines too. Something that’s unfortunately becoming more concerning now I’m 32. The formula also stated it was gentle enough for daily use, even on sensitive skin types.
It can, however, make your skin more sensitive to the sun. So you should always use an SPF in the daytime when using this product, and for a week after stopping use. I’ve been enjoying this one from La Roche-Posay for a while now.
This was my first time trying a product from REN, and it definitely made me want to explore more of their range.
What’s inside the bottle?
Lactic acid helps to eliminate dead skin cells for a smoother texture. Lactic acid is a far gentler option compared to glycolic acid (one of the most common AHAs) this is because it has a bigger molecule size, meaning its more gentle on the skin.
Salicin, a BHA derived from Willow bark extract, helps to minimise pore appearance.
Azelaic Acid, boosts radiance and helps lighten up hyperpigmentation and scars, creating a more even skin tone.
There’s also lots of other lovely ingredients like Mandarin peel oil, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to rejuvenate your complexion.
Ren’s products are all created with sensitive skin in mind, and only use nature’s most powerful and kind bioactive ingredients, all of which are sustainably sourced. The brand is also cruelty free and has a selection of vegan products too.
How do you use Ready, Steady, Glow?
I think their old packaging used to have a pump dispenser, like what you get on some nail polish remover bottles. My bottle doesn’t have one though. Maybe they ditched this when they changed their packaging, as it’s now a 100% recycled bottle – well done REN!
Even without the pump, It’s very easy to use. I just tip the bottle onto one of these reusable pad’s. You only need a small amount, then simply wipe it across your face, making sure to avoid your delicate eye area.
On occasion, I find it stings a little for a couple seconds. Most of the time though, I don’t get any stinging sensation and it just feels nice and refreshing. It also has a beautiful citrus scent which is lovely in the morning. I have dry skin, and this doesn’t make my skin feel dehydrated or tight at all.
Has my skin improved?
I’ve been using this every morning for the last 3 months and my skin has improved so much already. It’s way more glowy, plump, and just looks much healthier in general. The pores around my nose appear much smaller too. It’s also made my skin feel really soft, and helped to fade discolouration from acne scars.
This is now a firm staple in my morning skincare routine, and something that i can see myself repurchasing time and time again.
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