description
A gentle, soothing exfoliating liquid that is designed for very sensitive, redness prone skin types. PHA acids are the gentle sisters to the better known AHAs that similarly remove the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, but without the potential irritation that comes with high amounts of AHAs. PHAs are also great at moisturizing the skin and giving it extra antioxidant protection. BHA or salicylic acid is also a gentle exfoliant known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
We combined PHA and BHA acids with several soothing, antioxidant and moisturizing ingredients, so that Calm Down not only gently exfoliates, but also soothes and hydrates the skin. If you have sensitive skin or are looking for a really gentle, almost impossible to overdo exfoliant, you have found it.
who is it for?
Anyone who wants a gentle exfoliant. :) Especially recommended for sensitive skin types, during the summer, or if you are already using other powerful actives in your routine such as a strong retinoid product.
It is also a great option if you just start out using exfoliating acids and want to take it slow and start with a gentle option. In this case, it can be combined with Smooth Out. Experiment with alternating them until you find the ideal exfoliating strength and frequency for your skin (for example, using Smooth Out twice a week and Calm Down the rest of the time sounds like a good routine to start with).
Skin type
sensitive skin, all skin types looking for gentle acids
Skin problem
sensitivity, dull skin, redness
Texture
water-like, weightless liquid, like a toner
how to use
It is an ideal first step after cleansing your skin. Use it as a toner, either with a cotton pad or pour it into your hands and pat it on as men do with after-shave. Wait until it is absorbed (brush your teeth in the meantime :)) and you can follow up with your favourite serums and moisturizers.
IMPORTANT: The product contains BHA, do not use it if you are allergic to Aspirin.
GOOD TO KNOW: This exfoliant contains only acids that do not make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is an ideal gentle exfoliant for the summer. (However, UV light being the number one external skin-damaging factor, we still do recommend using a good SPF every morning.)
Shelf life: 2 years from production (unopened), 8 months PAO (period after opening)
ingreds & research
key ingreds:
Gluconolactone + Lactobionic Acid (PHA) – Gentle exfoliating acids that not only refine the surface of the skin, but also hydrate and give antioxidant protection.
Salicylic acid (BHA) – An oil soluble acid that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Phragmites Kharka + Poria Cocos Extract – Natural extracts that work in synergy to effectively reduce inflammation and strongly support skin in dealing with external stress.
Nopal Cactus +Yeast Extract – A unique combination of cactus and yeast extracts containing low molecular weight peptides, carbohydrates and bound minerals designed to sooth and hydrate the skin.
Panthenol – A classic skincare ingredient that is a reliable soothing, moisturising and skin-protecting agent.
full inci list:
Water/Aqua, Glycereth-26, Gluconolactone, Lactobionic Acid, Propanediol, Salicylic Acid, Panthenol, Glycerin, Opuntia Ficus‐Indica (Prickly Pear) Extract, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Phragmites Kharka (Topical Reed) Extract, Poria Cocos Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
research:
Cutis., 2004 Feb;73(2 Suppl):14-7., A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provides antiaging effects comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, , Volume 5 (1) – Mar 1, 2006, An evaluation of a polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen in combination with azelaic acid 15% gel in rosacea patients
Dermatologic Surgery, , Volume 30 (2) – Feb 1, 2004, The Polyhydroxy Acid Gluconolactone Protects Against Ultraviolet Radiation in an In Vitro Model of Cutaneous Photoaging
