Exfoliating pads are a quick, easy step that can really change your skin. If you’re someone who doesn’t have time for a mask, the quick swipe of a pad can make a world of difference in a matter of seconds. And, they’re not reserved for the face; you can use them on your body, too. I recently tried the Naturopathica 10% Glycolic Acid + Aloe Vera Resurfacing Pads, and experienced results after my first use. Here’s my honest review.
What I Love About These Exfoliating Pads
I’ve been a longtime fan of resurfacing and exfoliating pads for their ease of use. Like a mask, you typically only need to use them a couple times a week to maintain smooth, glowy skin in between your daily skin-care ritual. However, some resurfacing pads, like these, contain a stronger concentration of alphahydroxy acid (in this case, glycolic acid), so they’re not the best option for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, you probably want to skip and opt for a gentler alternative. I personally love the brand’s White Tea Antioxidant Mask too.
When you see 10% glycolic acid, it may seem intimidating, but if you’re an experienced AHA user, your skin will thank you. Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant that dissolves dead skin cells to reveal brighter, healthier-looking skin. If you’ve been seeing a dull complexion in the mirror, these pads are the solution. And, the best part is that the brand mixed the glycolic with soothing aloe vera and bilberry extract, which hydrate and calm redness. I have plenty of experience with strong AHA products, but I even felt a tingle after using these pads the first few times. My skin also turned a little bit red, but it subsided in a few minutes.
There are anti-aging benefits, too. In a clinical study, 100 percent of users saw a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles after two weeks. After four weeks, they saw a 10.5 percent reduction. Glycolic acid is a really important ingredient for those with aging skin, if your skin can tolerate it. Additionally, 88 percent of users saw an improvement in the appearance of skin radiance.
Key Ingredients
Glycolic acid, aloe vera and bilberry extract
How to Use Them
Apply one pad to clean skin at night once or twice a week, avoiding your eye area. I also like to wait a minute or two after washing my face so the pH of my skin neutralizes. As mentioned above, tingling and/or redness are normal and common with glycolic acid products, but it should subside within 30 minutes. After using the pad, allow your skin to dry before applying your night serums or creams. I prefer to use a moisturizing, nourishing cream.
Another perk is that these pads are saturated with more than enough serum to cover both your face and neck. You can also use them on the backs of your arms, thighs or anywhere with rough, bumpy skin. I have some issues with KP, and after just one use, my bumpy areas felt smoother.
