Regenerative medicine like vampire and salmon sperm facials used by Kim Kardashian
In aesthetic or cosmetic dermatology, regenerative medicine essentially looks at the four Rs: repair, rejuvenation, replacement and regeneration of tissues. Rather than trying to reduce the signs of ageing, it is looking at the root cause and trying to stimulate regeneration of skin cells.
This can be done in a number of ways, including cell-based treatments such as stem-cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma and growth factors, tissue engineering and bioengineered skin.
These can be used not only in aesthetic dermatology, but also in more medical applications, for things such as burns, diabetic ulcers, and also in some inflammatory skin diseases such as dermatitis and blistering skin diseases.
Stem cells that are derived from fat cells, or adipocyte stem cells, have shown promising results in reducing scarring, wrinkling and hair loss. Vampire Facial
Similarly, platelet-rich plasma has been shown to stimulate wound healing and reduce hair loss. Platelet-rich plasma was popularised with the term 'Vampire Facial', in which a person's own blood is taken, spun down, and the resulting plasma, which contains a significant number of growth factors, is either injected into the skin or applied to the surface of the skin.
Non-cellular based regenerative therapies include the use of exosomes, which are small carrier molecules containing bioactive ingredients that are either applied or injected to stimulate hair growth, reduce pigmentation, or to stimulate wound healing.
The source of the exosomes is important, as is the source of the bioactive carrier molecules. Bioactive molecules that come from stem cells, some studies show, are far more active than those that do not. Salmon Sperm Facial
Another popular rejuvenation treatment is the 'salmon sperm facial', which uses DNA polynucleotides that come from farmed salmon sperm. These have been shown to also have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and to stimulate collagen and elastic tissue and to inhibit apoptosis or programmed cell death.
Other bio-stimulatory injections can be used to slowly and gently stimulate a person's own collagen and elastic tissue. Some of these are based on polydiaxone, which is also used to make absorbable stitches, which are used extensively in dermatology and plastic surgery in the repair of skin excisions, performed, for example, in skin cancer removal. Another biostimulator is based on calcium, using calcium hydroxyapatite to stimulate new collagen and elastic tissue formation. Restore muscle tone
Lasers can also be used in regenerative dermatology. Erbium and carbon dioxide lasers resurface the skin, removing the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) and the upper part of the dermis (the second layer of the skin), which stimulates wound healing and regrowth of new skin cells as well as collagen and elastic tissue and new blood vessels.
Other energy-based devices aim to restore the resting muscle tone that we lose with age and stimulate muscle cell growth and muscle hyperplasia, increasing the size of muscle cells to help with functional strength and to address the loss of muscle that occurs each decade, particularly after the age of 60.
Many of these treatments are looking not only at how someone looks but also at improving their health span. Health span is the number of years a person is expected to live free from disease. So these are treatments that are aimed at making someone not only look better, but also to feel better and to have stronger core strength and to be healthier. Off-label medication
Some oral medicines that have been used off-label, often for many years, have shown promise in reducing the signs of ageing. These include Metformin, a medication that has been in use for 60 years and is traditionally an anti-diabetic agent. The very large TAME (Targeting Ageing with Metformin) study in the US has 3000 volunteers and is testing the drug's effect on ageing, cognition, its cardioprotective effect and other age-related chronic conditions. Results are due soon after years of trials but look very promising.
Another medication, rapamycin, which can be used topically but has also been taken orally, has shown evidence of anti-ageing effects. Oral hydrolysed collagen has been shown to increase skin hydration and elasticity, but the source of the collagen is important; fish collagen has been shown to be superior to other forms, but again, more studies are needed.
Nicotinamide, which is vitamin B3, also has anti-inflammatory effects and may have some anti-ageing effects. Caution needed
The use of such medications to fight ageing is an emerging field, but it is a field where people need to be cautious and we need better studies. We need human studies because promising results in mouse models and in primates don't necessarily translate into the same effect in humans.
We also need to be careful about potential side-effects. Rapamycin, for example, is also an immunosuppressant. Metformin can cause a reduction in Vitamin B12 among other rare side effects.
So although it's quite an exciting time in traditional medical and cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery, it's also important not to jump on the bandwagon. As is often the case, regulation of an emerging field by the appropriate authorities may lag behind the industry itself. This can lead to lesser-trained and even unscrupulous providers taking advantage of the public's desire for youthfulness and for anti-ageing treatments.
This applies to bio-stimulators, lasers and energy-based devices that stimulate collagen remodelling and other treatments that have an anti-ageing effect.
It is wise to consider who is treating you as the only accredited specialists with the highest level of training in the aesthetic or cosmetic field are dermatologists and plastic surgeons.
Dr Ritu Gupta, MBBS (Hons), PhD, FACD, is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist. Visit her website for more information.
Instagram: @dr_ritu_dermatologist
This column is published for information purposes only. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for independent professional advice about your personal health or a medical condition from your doctor or other qualified health professional. Read related topics: AgeingHealthResearch
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News.com.au
6 days ago
- News.com.au
9 Best Brightening Serums to Apply in Australia in 2025
The 'must have' beauty buy has left users totally shocked at the results. These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more Skip the highlighter – here's how to get a radiant, glowing complexion using a brightening serum, no makeup required. When it comes to the world of brightening serums, there are a few key ingredients you want to look out for – vitamin C is an obvious choice as the antioxidant works hard to brighten the look of the skin. But don't overlook quiet achievers like niacinamide and exfoliating acids - they work wonders at refining skin texture and diminishing the look of dark spots, giving you that 'glow-from-within' look we all long for. Thankfully we've done the hard work for you and curated a list of the best brightening serums, including one from Charlotte Tilbury that's been named a 'must have' and 'skincare staple' for bright, glowy skin. OUR TOP PICKS Charlotte Tilbury Dark Spot Correcting Radiance Recovery Serum $139 at Charlotte Tilbury Why we love it: This is a gentle yet high performing serum. What to consider: High price tag. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml What You Need To Know When it comes to brightening serums, the Dark Spot Correcting Radiance Recovery Serum from Charlotte Tilbury takes the cake. Offering all the benefits of a vitamin C serum while still helping to support your skin's natural moisture barrier, this gentle yet powerful serum focuses on brightening the skin all over - while limiting irritation. It can even be used under the eyes to help brighten the look of dark circles. After consistent use, you're left with a more even and radiant complexion. And with over 400 five-star ratings on the Charlotte Tilbury website, it seems like a popular pick among shoppers too. 'It really works!' said one reviewer, with another calling it a 'skincare staple' and 'must have' in your routine for a 'brighter' complexion. Why we love it: It's a powerful brightening serum that's also designed to be suitable for sensitive skin types. What to consider: High price tag. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 50ml What You Need To Know Another top pick is the Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum, featuring a blend of powerhouse ingredients to work fast at reducing the look of dark spots and brightening the skin. Containing a UP302 Brightening Molecule, plus vitamin C, niacinamide, salicylic acid, glucosamine, licorice extract and green tea extract – this oil-free formula is lightweight and designed to work well with other skincare and makeup products. Rave reviews from Adore Beauty shoppers are also shocked by how it 'works fast'. They continued, 'it seriously reduced the appearance of my dark spots faster than anything else I've tried'. Why we love it: It's a vitamin C serum that's been made with sensitive skin types in mind. What to consider: High price tag. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 40ml What You Need To Know If you want your skin to glow, an easy way to do it is by using a vitamin C serum. The Banana Bright Serum from Ole Henriksen is a cult favourite for its potent formula of skin-loving, brightening ingredients. Packed with 15 per cent vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and 5 per cent PHA, this daily serum works hard to brighten the skin while also helping give you a hydrated and smooth base. It's also loved for its addition of banana powder-inspired pigments – a signature of Ole Henriksen – to really help brighten the skin and counteract any darkness. Five-star rating Adore Beauty shoppers have named it their 'best friend', claiming they 'use this vitamin C serum every morning and my skin looks brighter.' Why we love it: Contains a unique blend of brightening and hydrating ingredients. What to consider: Slightly higher priced than other vitamin C serums on the market. Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, checkout Senior Shopping Writer If you're looking for a K-Beauty serum with multiple benefits, the INNISFREE vitamin C serum is my favourite. After hearing the cult serum sells every 15 seconds worldwide, I jumped at the chance to try it – and I'm seriously impressed with how well it works. This gives you the ultimate glass skin look without compromising your skin barrier, perfect for all skin types. It's expertly formulated with dual vitamin C to help brighten and target dullness, while green tea enzymes work hard to break down dead skin cells to really enhance the absorption of all that vitamin C goodness. It's also got niacinamide to help even out your skin tone, hallabong peel extract for added antioxidants and five types of hyaluronic acid to really plump and hydrate your skin. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin + HA, $18.30 at Myer The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin + HA $18.30 at Myer Other ways to buy: $18.30 at The Ordinary Why we love it: Sits at a great price point. What to consider: Formula may not feel as advanced as other picks on our list. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml or 60ml What You Need To Know When it comes to brightening serums from The Ordinary, the Alpha Arbutin + HA is a great choice. It's a water-based serum, formulated with hyaluronic acid to really hydrate the skin, while the unique addition of the 2 per cent alpha arbutin helps to target the appearance of uneven skin tone and fade unwanted dark spots. It's also racked up over 200 five-star ratings on the Myer website, with happy shoppers claiming it 'works like magic'. They continued, 'I have tried a lot of skin care products and only this one works. 1 week of using it you can already see the difference. It brightens the skin and fades dark spots. It also keeps the skin hydrated.' Why we love it: This is a cult favourite with tens of thousands of five-star ratings. What to consider: High price tag. Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, checkout Senior Shopping Writer Formulated with 15 per cent L-ascorbic acid, this SkinCeuticals serum is a high potency blend of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid, which all work together to hydrate, brighten and tighten the skin. Packed with antioxidants, this serum helps visibly boost skin vitality and improve the look of tired, dull skin affected by modern environmental exposure. It's ideal for all skin types and has a unique texture – it's not like your traditional gel-like serum, but rather feels like a super lightweight oil. I do love how quickly it absorbs into the skin and how easy it is to layer other products over the top. Yes the price tag is high and while I don't think you need to spend big bucks on your skincare, there are times where you can see why the price is so high. Why we love it: Lightweight lotion texture that works well on all skin types. What to consider: High price tag. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml What You Need To Know A top pick for those who have been using vitamin C for years and are keen to use a more advanced formula is this one from Paula's Choice. Boosted with a potent blend of 25 per cent off vitamin C, this intense serum is great for those who are concerned with stubborn discolouration. It's also packed with glutathione and patented GAP technology from Paula's Choice (containing glutathione amino acid precursors) – these work to provide your skin with plenty of antioxidants. The lightweight, lotion-like texture means its great for all skin types, whether you're dry or more on the oily side. We also love that it offers highly stable blend of oil-and-water soluble vitamin C for optimal effectiveness. Why we love it: Budget-friendly price tag. What to consider: Some users may not like the oil-free texture. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml What You Need To Know The Byoma Brightening Serum is a powerful serum that's infused with the brand's tri-ceramide complex to support your skin barrier, while niacinamide works its magic to help brighten and even out your complexion. There's also added hyaluronic acid to give your skin some hydration too. Byoma's Brightening Serum has racked up an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of five on the Sephora website, with shoppers describing it as a 'nice, lightweight, fast-absorbing' serum that 'leaves my skin feeling smooth and hydrated. I've noticed a real glow and improved texture after just a few uses.' Why we love it: This is an intense night treatment, where a little goes a long way, so it should last you a good amount of time. What to consider: High price tag. Skin type: May not be suitable for sensitive skin types | Size: 30ml What You Need To Know Formulated with a powerful 20 per cent blend of exfoliating acids – a nice balance of 10 per cent AHAs and 10 PHAs – Ole Henriksen's Dewtopia serum is going to completely renew your skin texture and leave you with a brighter complexion. While it's technically a serum, think of it more a night treatment – this stuff is intense and should be used sparingly. It may also feel a little too much for those with more sensitive skin types. The humble serum has also got over 1000 five-star ratings on the Sephora website, with happy shoppers naming it their 'holy grail'. WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A BRIGHTENING SERUM When choosing brightening serums to include in our list, we evaluated several factors: Price: You don't have to break the bank for brighter skin – we've included serums on our list from as little as $18. Ingredients: Brightening serums come in all sorts of forms, whether that be packed with vitamin C, niacinamide or even exfoliating acids. HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS With hundreds of brightening serums available, it's impossible to test every product out there. Our content is based on a range of different types of research – the team's first-hand experience with products, hours of research, scouring through pages of consumer reviews or information, and advice from experts we trust. We spoke to Sarah Lamb, Director of Global Dermatological Education and Services at Clinique Laboratories and Tim Fall, Senior Vice President Research & Development at Paula's Choice, about the best ways to incorporate a brightening serum into your skincare routine. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT KIND OF SERUM IS BEST FOR BRIGHTENING THE SKIN? If you want brighter skin, you're going to want to consider adding key ingredients like vitamin C into your routine. Tim shares, 'the best way to address skin brightening is to use the gold standard ingredient, which of course is vitamin C (Ascorbic acid). This strong natural antioxidant improves multiple visible signs of ageing, brightens and evens skin tone and improves dullness.' Sarah recommends the Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum, and it just so happens to be one of our top picks. 'This is a powerful dermatologist-developed solution for hyperpigmentation. The advanced formula balances more potent brightening actives – two types of vitamin C, pure niacinamide, and our proprietary molecule UP302 with more soothing ones – gyokuro and a licorice extract to help visibly reduce irritation that could trigger dark spots.' WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO USE A BRIGHTENING SERUM IN YOUR ROUTINE? Trying to understand when and how to layer all the different serums in your skincare routine is no easy feat. According to Sarah, 'pairing a serum that includes potent antioxidants such as vitamin C along with daily sunscreen is imperative to protecting skin against the dulling effects of UV rays, pollution, and environmental aggressors.' For best results, Tim also recommend another step when it comes to achieving brighter skin. 'Exfoliation is really important for brightening. First, because dead skin cells amplify dullness and uneven tone and secondly because you need to remove all barriers between your skin and vitamin C to maximise benefit. That means exfoliate away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and remove pollution.'
The Australian
7 days ago
- The Australian
Regenerative medicine like vampire and salmon sperm facials used by Kim Kardashian
Regenerative medicine is a relatively new field that encompasses multiple sub-specialties including dermatology. As a fast-growing area, it's worth understanding what it's all about. In aesthetic or cosmetic dermatology, regenerative medicine essentially looks at the four Rs: repair, rejuvenation, replacement and regeneration of tissues. Rather than trying to reduce the signs of ageing, it is looking at the root cause and trying to stimulate regeneration of skin cells. This can be done in a number of ways, including cell-based treatments such as stem-cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma and growth factors, tissue engineering and bioengineered skin. These can be used not only in aesthetic dermatology, but also in more medical applications, for things such as burns, diabetic ulcers, and also in some inflammatory skin diseases such as dermatitis and blistering skin diseases. Stem cells that are derived from fat cells, or adipocyte stem cells, have shown promising results in reducing scarring, wrinkling and hair loss. Vampire Facial Similarly, platelet-rich plasma has been shown to stimulate wound healing and reduce hair loss. Platelet-rich plasma was popularised with the term 'Vampire Facial', in which a person's own blood is taken, spun down, and the resulting plasma, which contains a significant number of growth factors, is either injected into the skin or applied to the surface of the skin. Non-cellular based regenerative therapies include the use of exosomes, which are small carrier molecules containing bioactive ingredients that are either applied or injected to stimulate hair growth, reduce pigmentation, or to stimulate wound healing. The source of the exosomes is important, as is the source of the bioactive carrier molecules. Bioactive molecules that come from stem cells, some studies show, are far more active than those that do not. Salmon Sperm Facial Another popular rejuvenation treatment is the 'salmon sperm facial', which uses DNA polynucleotides that come from farmed salmon sperm. These have been shown to also have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and to stimulate collagen and elastic tissue and to inhibit apoptosis or programmed cell death. Other bio-stimulatory injections can be used to slowly and gently stimulate a person's own collagen and elastic tissue. Some of these are based on polydiaxone, which is also used to make absorbable stitches, which are used extensively in dermatology and plastic surgery in the repair of skin excisions, performed, for example, in skin cancer removal. Another biostimulator is based on calcium, using calcium hydroxyapatite to stimulate new collagen and elastic tissue formation. Restore muscle tone Lasers can also be used in regenerative dermatology. Erbium and carbon dioxide lasers resurface the skin, removing the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) and the upper part of the dermis (the second layer of the skin), which stimulates wound healing and regrowth of new skin cells as well as collagen and elastic tissue and new blood vessels. Other energy-based devices aim to restore the resting muscle tone that we lose with age and stimulate muscle cell growth and muscle hyperplasia, increasing the size of muscle cells to help with functional strength and to address the loss of muscle that occurs each decade, particularly after the age of 60. Many of these treatments are looking not only at how someone looks but also at improving their health span. Health span is the number of years a person is expected to live free from disease. So these are treatments that are aimed at making someone not only look better, but also to feel better and to have stronger core strength and to be healthier. Off-label medication Some oral medicines that have been used off-label, often for many years, have shown promise in reducing the signs of ageing. These include Metformin, a medication that has been in use for 60 years and is traditionally an anti-diabetic agent. The very large TAME (Targeting Ageing with Metformin) study in the US has 3000 volunteers and is testing the drug's effect on ageing, cognition, its cardioprotective effect and other age-related chronic conditions. Results are due soon after years of trials but look very promising. Another medication, rapamycin, which can be used topically but has also been taken orally, has shown evidence of anti-ageing effects. Oral hydrolysed collagen has been shown to increase skin hydration and elasticity, but the source of the collagen is important; fish collagen has been shown to be superior to other forms, but again, more studies are needed. Nicotinamide, which is vitamin B3, also has anti-inflammatory effects and may have some anti-ageing effects. Caution needed The use of such medications to fight ageing is an emerging field, but it is a field where people need to be cautious and we need better studies. We need human studies because promising results in mouse models and in primates don't necessarily translate into the same effect in humans. We also need to be careful about potential side-effects. Rapamycin, for example, is also an immunosuppressant. Metformin can cause a reduction in Vitamin B12 among other rare side effects. So although it's quite an exciting time in traditional medical and cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery, it's also important not to jump on the bandwagon. As is often the case, regulation of an emerging field by the appropriate authorities may lag behind the industry itself. This can lead to lesser-trained and even unscrupulous providers taking advantage of the public's desire for youthfulness and for anti-ageing treatments. This applies to bio-stimulators, lasers and energy-based devices that stimulate collagen remodelling and other treatments that have an anti-ageing effect. It is wise to consider who is treating you as the only accredited specialists with the highest level of training in the aesthetic or cosmetic field are dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Dr Ritu Gupta, MBBS (Hons), PhD, FACD, is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist. Visit her website for more information. Instagram: @dr_ritu_dermatologist This column is published for information purposes only. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for independent professional advice about your personal health or a medical condition from your doctor or other qualified health professional. Read related topics: AgeingHealthResearch
News.com.au
21-07-2025
- News.com.au
8 Best Chemical Exfoliants to Use for Softer Skin in 2025
After trying this cult beauty brand's new product, I was absolutely floored by the 'instant glow' it offers. These products are hand-picked by our team to help make shopping easier. We may receive payments from third parties for sharing this content and when you purchase through links in this article. Product prices and offer details are not assured, and should be confirmed independently with the retailer. Learn more Anyone else still haunted by those gritty physical scrubs (looking at you, St Ives Apricot Scrub) that felt like sandpaper on fresh teen skin? I know I am. But don't let the word 'exfoliant' scare you off. These days, many of us are ditching harsh physical scrubs in favour of chemical exfoliants – and they're a whole different story. In fact, adding a chemical exfoliant to your routine can be a total game-changer. They tackle a whole bunch of skin concerns – think dullness, hyperpigmentation and even clogged press. Plus nowadays, chemical exfoliants are created to be gentle yet powerful, helping to shed away dead skin cells to reveal a smoother, softer and brighter complexion. Below we've rounded up the best chemical exfoliants for every skin type and budget, including a newly launched product – the Paula's Choice 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner Pads – inspired by the cult fave liquid version that's so popular one bottle sells every second worldwide. We're also big fans of the Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment. With over 1000 five-star ratings, shoppers say it makes a 'noticeable difference' to their skin. OUR TOP PICKS Paula's Choice 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner Pads Why we love it: They're convenient, travel-friendly and offer instant results. What to consider: It does create single-use rubbish. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 10 count Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Senior Shopping Writer Now you may be thinking – why should I try these toner pads? Why not just stick to the best selling formula that sells every second worldwide? A few reasons: the toner pads are great for beginners, because they give you more control over how much product you're applying, so it lessens the chance of over-exfoliating and damaging your skin barrier. They're also super convenient and portable – you can use it on your face but also anywhere on your body that needs some extra attention. And how do they actually work on the skin? All I can truly say is wow! The instant glow these humble toner pads give my skin is seriously unmatched. I'm so impressed with the formula, thanks to the 2 per cent salicylic acid concentration – and how easy they are to use, they are a must-have in my skincare routine for smoother and brighter skin. Why we love it: This is a cult-fave bestseller for over 25 years. What to consider: Higher price tag than others on the market. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 100ml What You Need To Know If you've ever wondered what a clinical skin treatment from home feels like, Alpha-H's best selling Liquid Gold treatment is about as close as it gets. Formulated with a unique low-pH delivery system to ensure your skin doesn't fry off, the Liquid Gold Treatment is designed to improve the tone and texture of your skin by gently exfoliating dead skin cells. This will help increase overall skin luminosity – and who doesn't want that? Rave reviews from Alpha-H shoppers have named this a 'forever staple', also noting they've seen 'an improvement in skin texture and less breakouts'. Bondi Sands Buff N Polish Gentle Chemical Exfoliant Why we love it: Budget-friendly price tag, plus it's also suitable for more sensitive skin types. What to consider: The formula may not feel as premium as other picks on our list. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml What You Need To Know For just under $20, you can pick up the Buff N Polish Gentle Chemical Exfoliant from Bondi Sands. Packed with two different types of exfoliating acids – lactic acid (AHA) and polyhydroxy acid (PHA) – it works hard to remove dead skin cells, leaving you with soft, smooth skin. Five-star rating Adore Beauty shoppers agree, noting this is a 'must have' for a 'gorgeous glow' on the skin. $10.70 at Priceline Why we love it: Low price tag. What to consider: Simple formula, not as premium and complex as others on our list. Skin type: All skin types, especially those with blemish-prone skin | Size: 30ml What You Need To Know Another budget buy that'll make your wallet happy is the Salicylic Acid 2% Solution from The Ordinary. It's a water-based serum, packed with the perfect concentration of salicylic acid to help remove dead skin cells that can also clog pores. It's been named a 'game changer' by five-star shoppers, with others commenting that it's 'helped with my skin so much ever since I started using it'. Ultraceuticals Ultra Brightening Serum $169 at Ultraceuticals Why we love it: Hardworking formula that helps to visibly brighten the skin. What to consider: Higher price tag and may be too intense for sensitive skin types. Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Senior Shopping Writer If you're looking for an advanced, exfoliating serum that's really going to work hard at brightening your skin, this pick from Ultraceuticals is a great choice. I've been using it on and off for the past few months and let me tell you – this stuff is strong, but so good! While I wouldn't recommend this for more sensitive skin types, I will say that I notice a visible difference to my skin after using it. It's formulated with a powerful complex of mandelic acid, niacinamide, hydroxyresveratrol and acetyl zingerone to really improve the look of discolouration and dark spots. This is the perfect exfoliating serum if you want something that's going to brighten too. BEST FOR ACNE The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner $13.70 at The Ordinary Why we love it: This is one of The Ordinary's bestsellers, nicely priced at under $14. What to consider: Probably only best to use in your night time routine. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 100ml What You Need To Know The Ordinary's Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner is a water-based toner that's gentle enough to be used daily, while also working hard to improve the overall look of the skin. Glycolic acid helps to smooth skin texture, improve skin tone and enhance glow and luminosity, which are all great for acne-prone skin types. It's racked up over 800 five-star ratings on The Ordinary's website, with shoppers saying it helps them get a 'glass look' to their skin. Urban Jungle Swipe Right Liquid Exfoliant $42 at Sephora Why we love it: Especially formulated for more sensitive skin types. What to consider: May not be strong enough for those looking for intense exfoliation. Skin type: All skin types | Size: 150ml What You Need To Know Urban Jungle's Swipe Right is formulated with PHAs, which is the more gentle version of AHAs and BHAs, so this liquid serum is great for those who want a super gentle yet effective exfoliation. There's also added allantoin to help encourage exfoliation, while vitamin E and geranium flower oil give the skin some extra love. Viviology Liquid Exfoliant $55 at Adore Beauty Why we love it: Includes sweet cherry extract to help refine and brighten the skin at the same time. What to consider: Higher price tag than others on our list. Skin type: Most skin types | Size: 200ml What You Need To Know For those who aren't as confident to step into the world of chemical exfoliants, this one from Viviology is a great first step. It's gentle yet effective at removing dead skin cells, while also containing a bunch of hydrating ingredients to really give your skin some extra love. Formulated with a blend of AHAs, PHAs, sweet cherry extract and niacinamide to help brighten, while native Australian plant extracts provide extra hydration. WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A CHEMICAL EXFOLIANT When choosing chemical exfoliants to include in our list, we evaluated several factors: Price: We've got picks from as little as $10, so you don't have to break the bank when it comes to clearer and smoother skin. Formula: Chemical exfoliants come in a range of forms – whether that be serums, creams, liquid toners, or even toner pads like the new release from Paula's Choice. Ingredients: There are three main types of exfoliating acids – BHA's, AHA's and PHA's – and they're all suited to different skin types and skin goals. HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS With hundreds of chemical exfoliants available, it's impossible to test every product out there. Our content is based on a range of different types of research – the team's first-hand experience with products, hours of research, scouring through pages of consumer reviews or information, and advice from experts we trust – including Deborah Kilgoure, the Director of Global Skincare Knowledge at Paula's Choice. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHY DO I NEED TO USE A CHEMICAL EXFOLIANT? 'Our skin has a natural exfoliation process that can get faulty over time due to age and environmental stressors,' explains Deborah. 'When this process stops performing at its peak, the results can be dullness, dryness, clogged pores, breakouts, and more visible signs of ageing. 'Chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHA (beta hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid) help to gently dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more effectively. This process reveals smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking skin. It also supports skin barrier by way of better cell turnover. 'Chemical exfoliants also allow other skin care products to absorb better, boosting their effectiveness and maximising overall results.' CAN I USE A CHEMICAL EXFOLIANT EVERY DAY? No, it's not recommended to use a chemical exfoliant everyday. If you're a beginners, it's recommended to start with using it once a week, gradually increasing to two or three times a week at most – it all depends on how well your skin reacts to it. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL EXFOLIANT? As the name suggests, physical exfoliants use abrasive materials to manually remove dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand, rely on exfoliating acids to renew the skin for you. Generally speaking, chemical exfoliants are considered gentler and more effective. Some physical exfoliants can be too harsh, leading to micro-tears and long-term damage to your skin barrier. Sign up for our weekly shopping newsletter to get the best deals, shopping tips and guides delivered straight to your inbox.
