I’m a total acid addict when it comes to skincare – a week rarely passes without the use of an acid-based mask, and I use my P50 at least 5 times a week as part of my evening skincare routine. Therefore, I’m always keen to try a product that leads with Hydroxy Acids, so I was eager to get my hands on the Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser. For quite some time I’ve avoided manual exfoliators (products with scrubby bits) in favour of chemical exfoliators (products containing acids that exfoliate) but recently there have been a few products that have tempted me back. The reason I avoid physical/manual exfoliators is because the idea of using something that scratches and possibly tears my skin wasn’t really something I thought would be of benefit, but I think as long as you’re sensible with your approach to using such a product – always pay attention to your skin and allow it to tell you whether it’s happy or not – then a bit of manual exfoliation can actually be quite lovely.
The Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser contains Glycolic and Lactic Acid (AHAs) and Salicylic Acid (BHA) alongside Jojoba Beads that provide the manual exfoliation. I’m not 100% sure, but I *think* jojoba beads have become the go-to manual exfoliation ingredient as they’re rounded, so less likely to scratch, which makes them particularly well-suited to this type of cleanser. As this cleanser is leading with the AHA/BHA features, I think it’s worth pointing out that there’s only so much these ingredients can do in a product you wash off so quickly, so if you really want to see a difference, I’d recommend using this in the same way you’d use a cleanser (although nowhere near the eyes, obviously!) and leaving it on for a little while before washing it off – only a few minutes, such as how long it takes you to brush your teeth, should allow a bit more of an impact on your skin. I do really like this exfoliating cleanser as it’s gentle yet effective – skin feels wonderfully smooth after use, although you do need a good hydrator afterwards. This is the ideal product for anyone who’s curious to try AHA or BHA products as there’s no sting or burning, plus the inclusion of Jojoba Beads allows for a manual scrub that leaves skin feeling and looking polished and clean. It’s £34 for a very generous 200ml here – link – I personally wouldn’t suggest using this every day, maybe 3-4 times a week, but if you want it as an every day cleanser then I’d suggest introducing it slowly and keeping an eye on your skin to see how it tolerates it.
*PR Sample
I actually bought this last year but haven’t gotten round to trying it yet. I totally agree about leaving it on for a few minutes, washing off the acids so quickly seems a bit pointless.
The Beauty Locker