The best chemical exfoliant for your skin

Guide for exfoliating the skin safely by Dr Alexis Stephens.
In this video, we discuss how to choose the best acid for your skin.
Cliff Notes:
Dull tired stressed skin, mature and aging skin - Resistant- Glycolic if Sensitive- PHA
Hyperpigmentation- Resistant and Mature skin- Lactic if Resistant and mostly concerned with dark spots not wrinkle but Sensitive- PHA
Dry Rough and bumpy Scaly skin (Keratosis Pilaris)- Glycolic Sensitive go with a very low % glycolic
Acne-Prone- Oily and sensitive- BHA wash off
Oily and Resistant BHA leave on…… Dry and Acne-prone- Mandelic
Hope this was helpful guys!
Products Mentioned:
Naturium Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Gel 10%
shop-links.co/173470057090059...
Urban Skin Rx Even Smooth & Glow Enzyme Mask
shop-links.co/173470065002762...
Derma E Ferulic Acid Resurfacing Pads
shop-links.co/173470072001865...
MELE Even Tone Post Cleanse Tonic
shop-links.co/173470078157112...
Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water
Naturium Mandelic Topical Acid 12%
shop-links.co/173470091224164...
The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Acne + Pore Cleanser shop-links.co/173470099027210...
Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2%
shop-links.co/173470101375957...
Neutrogena Skin Balancing Milky Cleanser
shop-links.co/173470108330206...
There also enzymatic exfoliation but that can be a separate video and mechanical exfoliation that I only recommend doing in a professional setting
Increase risk of sun sensitivity so wear your sunscreen, protective balm on corners of eyes, nose and mouth to avoid irritation
Start low and go slow, avoid exfoliating and using strong actives at the same time, one day one night or alternate nights with the exception being products that are formulated together
Best time to use exfoliants is at night- cellular renewal happens best when we sleep, continuous self renewal is essential to skin health and maintenance during the day our skin is defense mood against all the environmental stressors we come in contact with think uv rays, blue light, pollution etc. and at night we need to help it repair
How to use:
First patch test
Cleanse,
Put a protective barrier at the corners of the eyes, nose, mouth and eye cream (does not need to be specific eye cream)
Then apply exfoliant (leave for whatever amount of time directed
Through cleanse off double cleanse to make sure there are no hot spots that develop
Moisturize and oil if you like oils
Do not use with other actives alternate and use exfoliants on alternate nights
1-2X weekly to avoid irritation
These do make you more sun-sensitive so SPF in the morning is a non-negotiable
Leave any questions you have below!
KZbin DISCLAIMERS
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED BY DR. ALEXIS STEPHENS ON THIS WEBSITE OR IN ANY OTHER FORMAT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR PERSONAL PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH PROVIDER WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION. NEVER REPLACE PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE GIVEN TO YOU PERSONALLY OR DELAY IN SEEKING IT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON THIS WEBSITE. THIS INFORMATION IS NOT MEANT TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, OR CURE ANY MEDICAL CONDITION.
#howtoexfoliate #chemicalexfoliants #SKINCARETIPS
AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER: The description may contain affiliate links for a small commission on purchased products. Affiliate links support my channel, so I can continue to make educational and fun videos for you. Also, some items may have been received through PR. I am the advising dermatologist for NATURIUM and other skincare brands that were not mentioned in this video today. Thanks for watching and shopping!

[@JeannieReinhart-oj7ey]

Absolutely the best video on exfoliants and I have never commented on any video ever. So glad I found you!

[@nicoleonfeels]

Acid on skin can sound off putting sometimes... glad we have this video to help break it down :)

[@kellyc3897]

Wonderful info! I'm constantly singing the praises of the Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5%, and I have oily skin. The Ordinary's mandelic acid is also quite good. Mandelic acid doesn't get enough credit for being gentle yet incredibly effective for all skin types and helping with acne. Congrats on 100K! 🤗

[@Vibezincomming]

I use it too, but it is a little sticky.

[@shwetasv6520]

I used the ordinary mandalic acid and i loved it , I helped me with getting rid of my hyperpigmentation .

[@davw.2415]

Stratia’s Soft Touch AHA is pretty good too.

[@shwetasv6520]

@@keshiaparker3173 the ordinary mandalic acid is fregrence free , I don't smell any particular sweet scent or any other smell in my mandalic acid solution .

[@shwetasv6520]

@@keshiaparker3173 the GM toner and GM discoloration serum both have niacinamide so don't apply them together , in morning u can use GM toner blc it have niacinamide , vita c and arbutin , so all in one and don't forget ur sunscreen and at night u can use discoloration serum and azelaic acid , and about pinepple enzyme exfoliator I am not a fan n never used it so can't give u advice about this one , hope it will help u .

[@jackiek4159]

Thank you for breaking it down in a easy to understand manner! Congrats on reaching 100k also! 😍🙌🏻

[@banthony8545]

Dr Alexis you're the angel of skin care.

[@silliwtd]

Every video I watch I walk away more informed. Love your content

[@loecm]

I love, love, LURVE your channel. I always gain so much I appreciate that you also address skin of colour and hyperpigmentation.

[@angelofscorpio]

Yay, more knowledge! Dr. Stephens, your videos have truly helped me. I really appreciate you! 💗

[@saraerzsebet]

I watch a lot of skincare videos (love to reinforce existing knowledge and learn new) and this is THE BEST vid on acids I have seen. Congrats on 100k!

[@yelangjinka5648]

I listen to you for your soothing voice. You are so knowledgeable and helpful. Thank you.

[@DaPoofDaPoofDaPoofDa]

You're amazing Dr. Stephens , thank you!

[@Phethephoenix]

You’re so easy to take advice from. Your pace and tone and facial expressions are welcoming. Thanks for sharing your lovely existence with us who need your help.

[@mmaolisae3675]

Hi Dr Alexis, this video had so much great information. Thank you! I'm going to rewatch and take some screenshots 😊 Also congrats on 100K! 🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@netoantoinette5877]

Thank you so much for your knowledge Dr Alexis. I knew nothing about skincare and your videos have really educated me on skincare. God bless you.

[@christianatembo6245]

I was looking for this. Thank you Dr. Alexis!!

[@AKA-lr6cv]

I am really enjoying your channel! I appreciate all of the skincare knowledge! Thank you! Would love to see a video similar to this one for retinols.

[@gpizano6691]

Always educating us, we appreciate YOU!❣️

[@stephaniecrosby5294]

I’m so happy to see you have 200k+ ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@LindaMitchell]

Thank you for this concise and informative video explaining all the acids and which one is best for each skin types. I like that you included affordable product recommendations.

[@parismorgan4475]

Thank you Dr. Alexis!! This was right on time! I thank God that you are using your education, expertise and God given purpose. Whether you realize it or not, you are helping the lives of so many by helping us with our skin. Thank you!!

[@paigeunique5375]

Thank you for sharing this information! I love how helpful and informative you are!

[@hithere8140]

This video deserves 2 thumbs up!👍👍

[@humanbeing8400]

Your voice is so soothing lol. The ending explanation was SO helpful!

[@TeresaSanches]

I guess 3 viewers still use face scrubs. Thank you for this info. Love it! 💕🙏

[@annoyingdog4820]

She explains it so well and thoroughly, great video! C:

[@csstudio3648]

Great rundown! Thank you for the info.

[@elizabethrose5007]

I have learned several things today, thank you for a great lesson. Have a fab day.

[@uchennaezeani9615]

I love when she says "my friend"☺

[@amberbug90]

Yes me too

[@afiam8510]

Thank you Dr. Alexis. This was very informative.

[@Glynis-vh4vz]

Ty Dr. Stephen's- great vid. Also, congrats on 100k!!

[@hothoneymustard]

This is the BEST video on KZbin

[@A.K.00]

You explain very well, like a teacher!

[@1naturalbeauty]

I have oily skin and I’m in my late 30’s. I love the Wishtrend Mandelic Acid Prep Water 😍

[@jaleea2012]

🎉🎉 Congratulations 🎉🎉 on reaching 100K 💕💞💕So happy you have this channel thank you so much for helping us.

[@butterfligirl87]

Yellow for the win again...this Musturd looks great on you Alexis 💛 Love your knowledge and education.

[@ntamieborty]

Your voice is so calming 🥹

[@ImTash]

thank you for giving such great information with a calm delivery! I'm more than a little tired of being shouted at by hyperactive teenagers

[@lakershaolivarez1034]

I really appreciate you. This is exactly what I needed. Thank you

[@taiabouther]

Stumbled on your channel, subscribed immediately! Thank you so very much for the info provided! Omg your voice is so soothing too!

[@simplymynz2683]

THANK YOU DR. STEPHENS YOU ARE THE BEST DERMATOLOGY DOCTOR. THANKS FOR TRULY HELPING MILLIONS INCLUDING MYSELF. GOD BLESS YOU. 🙏❤

[@SamMKKK]

Bro the Inkey List’s PHA toner is top-tier. I don’t know if it’s the propanediol, but it leaves an instant (but transient) glow that’s just *chef’s kiss*. It’s muy bien.

[@keziakoo]

Agreed. I put it on last night and my face was glowing this morning.

[@RA-wp6th]

I've been looking for feedback on this, how strong is it? I've bought it, but not used it yet. I'm wondering how suitable it'll be for my sensitive skin.

[@SamMKKK]

@@RA-wp6th It’s perfect for sensitive skin, imo. I have eczema and experienced no issues.

[@RA-wp6th]

@@SamMKKK Thanks! Will give it a go but gradually

[@celestinetoussaint6350]

OOOH I've been wanting to try it, I'll try it out. How often do you use it? I have eczema too

[@olive1234567899]

i just want to say ive been watching you since you started your channel and the information you gave/give literally changed my skin. a complete 180. i cant thank you enough Dr. Stephens, especially for your focus on dark skin individuals

[@beautilynlagracia7914]

I know right !

[@uchehelen6607]

Dr Alexis thank you for ur honest teaching advice information. I ve always watching your content but not paying too much attention because too many information gets me confused asf! But I just relaxed my mind and listened to many of ur teaching and is mind blowing now I see what I was doing wrong in the body that every product that I buy doesn’t work for me because am not choosing the right products. Thank you so very much and I love the way you speak clearly for those of us that English is our second language. I love you dearly and I can’t wait to start this journey again with you. Forever grateful... returned sub!

[@macywacy7384]

Very complicated but understand now that you broke it down in this video. Thanks Dr.!

[@amparks51]

This was sooooo helpful! I will never burn my skin again with chemical exfoliants agin because of these tips

[@Lilatomi]

Thank you thank you thank you Dr Alexis. I was born and raised in Africa and a lot of folks there used diy skincare products with lemon, lime, baking soda etc. Thanks to you, I’ve really started learning how to properly take care of my skin and products to avoid. I work night shifts and I’d like to get rid of hyperpigmentation. I was wondering if I should do anything different than what you have already suggested because of my work schedule. Thanks so much for your knowledge and expertise

[@shantellhall1577]

THANK YOU FOR THIS INFORMATION! It is very much appreciated!

[@refiloemalekela5890]

Always so educational 💕

[@knowledgehunter_]

You should do some voice over to some animation character or may be an asmr video. Your voice is soooooooooo soothing and not loud at all. And thank you so much for this video. I'll follow the guidelines doc. Love from India🇮🇳

[@Luvanmusiq]

I thought the same 😂

[@rosemary5005]

I’m in my early 40’s* and I live and swear by salicylic acid. It cleared out the sebaceous filaments/blackheads that I struggled with as a teen and I think it does wonders for my pores. I’m also a fan of lactic acid and I even found this hand cleanser (not a soap) with a short inci list, that has an antibacterial effect as well as it has lactic acid. I bought one for me and one for my dad. It’s a hit! Even my dad says it’s not as drying as the usual Palmolive and Dove soaps. I praise the lactic acid in it. *I’m in my early 40’s and my skin is youthful looking, I know it and I also get to hear it from others quite often. And I’m a living example of that keeping out of the sun, avoid alcohol and live on a plant based diet and reaching for water as the favourite beverage is the best things that you can do for your skin. Especially the staying out of the sun.

[@sandik1958]

What is the name of the hand cleanser please ?

[@LoveConquersAll888]

What salicylic product do u use for the face ? Can you share your skincare routine and what products u use pls .

[@alananice9179]

What slicylic acid do you use, please reply?

[@IsraelJ714]

@rose5055, would be great to know the hand was. Thanks.

[@wiiiz3]

i dont know about plant based diet because things like pasture-raised eggs and especially wild caught salmon are very good for skin and anti-aging. Salmon has omega 3's, asthaxanthin, coq10, biotin etc

[@maholydelrosario8416]

I love her voice is so soothing 😍

[@true-wisdom4367]

This video was very informative. Thank you for the detailed explanation for all skin types! I watched so many videos but each one confused me. It would be great if you could show the different skin types with the respective exfoliant, it's even easier that way, but still super informative! 🙏🏼🥰♥️

[@jennifergarde5014]

Amazing video! I've been learning from you and over 3 months my skin has improved so much. I'm so grateful for your help. ❤ I love TO Mandelic Acid!

[@dinydgeraldine3254]

Nicely and detailed explanations on this topic, thank you so much ♥️

[@lidiasileshi8663]

This is the best video on acids.was getting confused on choosing lactic or mandelic.U break it down so easily.Thank you. And also I would love to know your night skincare routine.

[@polobank4409]

u are an amazing doctor!! i have been following you from your 5th video on youtube. definitely you need more subs and likes!!!!

[@karynjacksonhuggins9457]

Very helpful as always. Thank you!

[@elonaw79]

Excellent information as always.

[@vandayshataylor777]

Thank you so much Doctor!!!!!!!!👑👑✨❤️so educational and needed!

[@riviwarner4472]

Great breakdown

[@kimberlyalvarez344]

SO. MUCH. AMAZING. INFO!!!!? NEW SUB!!! You seem so smart and credible!! Deff excited to watch the rest of your videos, thank you! ✨

[@HabeshawitHanna]

Excellent video, thank you !

[@habenmruz5362]

Your amazing Dr A. Thanks your so knowledgeable 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@Ururowndoc]

Thank you for another amazing video!

[@haelotny6523]

Thank you for clarifying that one can use a BHA product everyday if it's a wash off. I thought I may be doing something wrong by using a 2% salicylic acid face wash in the morning but I'm relieved to know that I'm not over-exfoliating. You are soft-spoken, concise and very helpful. I greatly value your advice.

[@82jow]

Thank you Dr. Stephens!

[@mothersworld15]

Thank you Dr. Alexis, it's soo helpful. Also can u do videos more for dry/dehyrated matured acne prone skin

[@ivanlandero15]

your voice is so soothing

[@kishasmith5380]

This video has blessed me...Thank you much!

[@ramamohammed4021]

I love your videos ,you always give good information 💗

[@tahirahdavid]

Thank you. I just bought the ordinary glycolic acid toner and was having buyer's remorse without trying it. Will try it but will definitely wash off during thr first weeks of trial.

[@lorii1519]

God bless you! I needed this info from a woc!

[@merlinsreturn]

Very nicely done on how to differentiate which chemical exfoliant at which percentage. Thank you.

[@arlyn515]

So thorough, thanks!

[@ms.ladyliving5150]

First time viewer. Subscribed.

[@beautifulbee9810]

I am so glad i found your channel thank you.

[@naturalwoman8315]

Excellent video, amazing content 👍🏽

[@JustMe-po1ct]

Thank you this was very informative. I plan on alternating both BHA and AHA. I have aging oily acne prone resistant skin with hyperpigmetation. Fingers crossed.

[@fefemyluv]

I get so excited when I see your videos! I feel like I’m in class. 😂 so much great info!

[@heygirlisland292]

Such a helpful video. Thank you thank you thank you!!!

[@Just_A1icia]

I have very oily skin. I do a double wash. First I do a salicylic acid cleanser followed by a glycolic cleanser. This has helped me a lot.

[@siobhanyoung4196]

Excellent! Very helpful.

[@sharonjerkins1922]

I wish I lived close to you I would be one of your patients, you have lots of knowledge.

[@businessmatters1389]

You are a darling! I stumbled on your video after viewing so many others featuring dermatologists, aestheticians, and skin care experts. You explained everything in a way that is simple and easy to understand. I am absolutely clear on which acid exfoliant is right for my skin type. Thank you so much! Subscribing and following! Yaasss!

[@skincarewithashlea2739]

I love this video. Thanks for this useful information

[@motso1668]

Your Channel is great, its my got to for all things skin care 😊❤️❤️

[@tedaman8652]

Great tips, thank you.

[@shellteresa778]

Thank you for the information. I did start low with glycolic acid amd now have move up. My skin was very oily but now it has been normal for 5 mths.

[@lakieagreen4304]

Thank you so much for breaking it down all the way. I appreciate you 🤲🏽🤍✨

[@chaminibandara1593]

Thank you very much dr.clear information 🥰

[@LCx829]

I use the inky list glycolic acid about every few weeks. I have sensitive, rosacea and it’s done well for me.

[@cutelilthing2]

Love your videos! So happy to have found and subscribed to your channel. I regularly visit my dermatologist cos of my intense skin concerns. But I love watching your channel for extra information and product recommendations. Thanks so much! 🌹 Can you make a video on more face moisturizers recommendations to use alongside Tretinoin for the moisture/protective skin barrier? Moisturizers for allergy prone and acne prone skin. (Oil free, silicone free, fragrance free etc.) I’ve tried two of your product recommendations from your moisturizers videos- one didn’t agree with my skin and the other which I love is about to be discontinued (First aid beauty barrierAIR cream) I’ve picked up the first aid ultra repair barrierAIR cream and first aid oat toner. Love these two to calm my skin and help with regular allergic reactions. Xx

[@bbybee]

Love your videos!!

[@shivandhinishriswant5332]

wow what a clear explanation doctor i really impressed thank u so much 🥰🥰😍😍😍

[@childassaulterxd905]

Thanks this helped understanding skin betger, big ups 👍

[@NikkitaChante]

Im glad I watched this, I have been working on finding a skincare routine that works with my skin, I am using glycolic acid right now but it was a small tingle, I love the advice of using it once to twice a week.

[@tygrallure6895]

Thank you Doc! I've been exfoliating everyday cause I read the back of the bottle, it says to every morning and night. I wont be doing that anymore. This is a new journey for me. I really want my skin too be it's best. So any knowledge that I can get on how to better take care of it, is always appreciated.

[@anakinlen9241]

As always thank for great info! Dr. Stephens, would you a post or info about a night routine while you are on a beach vacation?

[@Lissad27]

Thank you for all your wonderful advice! Just wondering, I’m totally new to exfoliating - what percentage of PHA is would you recommend? Thanks 😊

[@dzovagmeguerditchian9043]

Amazing information thank you doc