Unfortunately, we aren’t sure if The Inkey List produces ethically-made formulas. After doing a bit of research, some sources state that they are at least cruelty-free. How Transparent is The Inkey List?

While both provided anti-aging benefits to the skin, the only statistically significant differences in anti-aging benefits where glycolic acid excelled were skin sallowness and pinch recoil. BHAs - that's beta-hydroxy acids - are here to help, combatting oiliness and helping to prevent breakouts, so you're left with the glowy skin you deserve. PHA skincare can also really come into its own in a skincare routine for acne - gently banishing excess oils, but without drying out your skin too severely, which is a common issue with a lot of blemish treatments. Is PHA better than AHA? PHAs can help lift superficial pigmentation after a breakout clears, and they're less likely to cause rashes in the process, which can worsen pigmentary issues," says Dr. Dhingra. "They're also safe for all skin types, including darker skin tones that are prone to hyperpigmentation." How do you use PHAs? But that’s not the case with PHAs. You can comfortably layer your retinol with PHAs. They’re very unlikely to irritate your skin as they stay mostly on the surface of the skin and work in a slow and steady manner. Apply your retinol first! Use them as peels.

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Virtually anyone can use PHAs, but those with sensitive skin may get the most benefit from, since they likely won't cause irritation like other chemical exfoliants or face peels might. "They also have a hydrating quality, so in addition to exfoliating, they will help with hydration which is especially important with sensitive skin," says Dr. Weinstein. PHAs are also gentle enough to be used during pregnancy, and they're perfect for acne-prone skin, as they help even out texture and tone. Try Dr. Jart's Dermaclear Micro Water if you're looking to treat acne. What types of PHAs are best? You may have heard that one of the best ways to get glowing, radiant skin is through regular exfoliation. But if you have sensitive skin — and especially if you're prone to rosacea or eczema — you might find that chemical exfoliators like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) can be too harsh. And though PHAs aren't really the gold standard for treating and preventing acne (you'll want to look towards glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and/or retinoids for that), they are pretty great at getting rid of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (aka those dark marks and spots you get after a zit has healed).

The third group, PHAs (the most common of which are galactose, lactobionic acid, and gluconolactone), can be considered a less intense version of AHAs. The prefix poly means “many, ” and PHAs are essentially like AHAs but with *many* more molecules in their chemical structure. This is important for the way these molecules interact with the skin. “Think of PHAs like a bed of nails, while AHAs are a single nail,” Says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. “A single nail piercing the skin can cause trauma, [whereas with a bed of nails] the pressure is distributed among the entire bed, so it is much more gentle. Because of their large size, PHAs give effective but gentle exfoliation.” CAN I USE IT WHEN PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING?Yes! You can safely use it when pregnant or breastfeeding. Your guide to pregnancy safe skincare > Additionally, Dr. Dendy Engelman, board-certified dermatologist practicing at Shafer Clinic, points out, “PHAs have natural antioxidant properties and are great at neutralizing free-radical damage that can be caused from environmental pollutants and/or ultraviolet radiation,” which is a major plus for those of us living in cities or those with active, outdoor lifestyles. Yet their main claim to fame remains their ability to gently slough off dead skin cells, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, smooth texture, and boost radiance. Discover youthful skin with Medik8 Crystal Retinal, the ground-breaking serum that reinvented vitamin A skincare. Featuring retinaldehyde, the next-generation retinoid that is 11x faster acting than retinol [1], now available in a series of 5 progressive strengths to accompany you on your journey to Beautiful Skin For Life.

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So, what exactly does PHA—or really any of the acids—do for your skin? Well, regular chemical exfoliation can help brighten up your face and even out your texture, while also helping your other skincare products penetrate your skin more efficiently. Acids are basically liquid gold...if you can tolerate them. Which is why PHAs are so awesome: "Their biggest selling point is that they have a lower risk of irritation, but they still effectively exfoliate the most superficial layers of the skin," says Dr. Dhingra. Soak a cotton round or reusable pad and sweep over skin, alternatively dispense into the palm and pat into skin. Recyclable The Inkey List is definitely onto something. Because of the simple formulations, customers are raving about the effectiveness of their products. For instance, remedies like the Salicylic Acid Cleanser and the Retinol serum proved successful in removing blemishes, breakouts, and excess sebum. HOW TO USE WITH OTHER PRODUCTS:It is not recommended to use both Glycolic Acid and Retinol at the same time, use on different nights if required. Don't mix with other AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid or Apple Cider Vinegar), BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acid or C-50 Blemish Treatment) or PHA Toner as this can cause irritation and sensitise the skin. Avoid mixing with Vitamin C products at the same time (Use Vitamin C in the AM and Glycolic Acid in the PM) What products should I not layer together? > Topical applications of probiotics directly affect the skin by enhancing its natural defense barriers. This product uses both forms of biotic (pre & pro) to restore skin’s natural health and beauty