Wow, we’re well into fall now, and it’s getting closer and closer to winter. Despite being an Eskimo, I do NOT like the cold, and I’m still wearing my flip-flops because I refuse to face the fact that summer is gone!
But, at least there’s some good news to help soften the blow. Despite the cold, drier weather, we don’t have to give up dewy, fresh, glowing skin! Having been a long-time lover of Exuviance, I’m pleased to have the honor of sharing the brand’s Purifying Cleansing Gel with you.
If you’ve been following this blog, you likely already know the history behind this proven brand. If not, or in case you need a refresher, Exuviance was developed by renowned experts in cosmetic dermatology, Drs. Van Scott and Yu. These doctors discovered the rejuvenating powers of alpha hydroxy and polyhydroxy acids, which are clinically proven skincare ingredients. Additionally, they are the original patent holders of the first glycolic peel, or “lunchtime peel.”
Exuviance Purifying Cleansing Gel is a foaming, soap-free cleanser that gently removes makeup, surface oil, and other impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. In addition to alpha and polyhydroxy acids, the formula contains skin conditioners to help soothe and improve texture. I have hypersensitive skin from using tretinoin, so I like that this cleanser is appropriate for all skin types, including sensitive.
The star ingredients in the cleanser are glycolic acid and gluconolactone. Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, is found in sugar cane. When applied to the skin, is not only moisturizes, but helps exfoliate. This exfoliation aids in treating acne, improving the appearance of scarring and hyperpigmentation, and firming the skin (WebMD, 2016).
Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid, which has similar benefits to the glycolic acid, but differs from alpha hydroxy acids. Gluconolactone and other PHAs have a larger molecular structure, which means they are more gentle and result in less irritation. The disadvantage is that because of the larger molecule size, they may not penetrate as far into the skin to target deep wrinkles (Dermatology Review, 2016).
Exuviance has a knack for formulating their products very well. The nifty thing about the Purifying Cleansing Gel is that since it contains both AHAs and PHAs, you get great results with less irritation. The penetration of the glycolic acid can work on deeper wrinkles, but because of the gluconolactone, less is needed to be effective.
The cleanser is housed in a convenient, easy to use, and sanitary squeeze tube. The gel has a very light, clean scent that dissipates quickly. While I happen to love fragrance in my skincare products, I know a lot of people don’t. But, even those who don’t shouldn’t have any problems with this since it’s so mild and doesn’t last.
While the cleanser is described as “foaming,” it’s not overly foaming, so no worries about dryness or irritation. I tested this out in several ways. First of all, I used it as a precleanse by massaging it into my dry skin, to remove my makeup. I felt cleansing oils work better for this method, but nonetheless, it did remove the majority of my makeup. I also tried it as a precleanse on wet skin, and it was a bit more effective than on dry skin. I also used it as a regular cleanser, with vigorous massaging and warm water, and it performed very well. Finally, I combined it with my Soniclear Elite, and had absolutely spectacular results! My skin was SO clean, my pores appeared smaller, and I had no tightness, dryness, or irritation.
The only negative is that the ingredient list contains sulfates. While sulfates are considered safe in skincare products, they can cause irritation in some people (Best Health, 2016). I’ve never had any problems with sulfates in my products, and most other people don’t, either. But, since so many consumers are trying to avoid sulfates in this day and age, I would love to see them swapped out for an alternative.
As there are SO many great benefits and ingredients in Exuviance Purifying Cleansing Gel, the sulfates should not be a deterrent. I could not be more pleased with the formula, and with the results I’ve experienced from using this cleanser. If you’re in the market for a superior anti-aging cleanser with clinically proven ingredients, Exuviance Purifying Cleansing Gel may be just what you need! Check it out at Exuviance.com.
Sources:
Best Health (2016). The truth about sulfates. The Reader’s Digest Association, Inc. Retrieved October 24, 2016, from www.besthealthmag.ca.
Dermatology Review (2016). Gluconolactone. The Dermatology Review. Retrieved October 24, 2016, from www.thedermreview.com.
WebMD (2016). Alpha hydroxy acids. WebMD. Retrieved October 24, 2016, from www.WebMD.com.
