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AHA3

3% Alpha Hydroxy Acids + Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate Cleansing Gel For Cleansing and Exfoliation

An airy, refreshing foaming cleanser featuring five potent acids to address skin concerns like blackheads, acne, and roughness. It uses gentle amino acid cleansing agents, is sulfate-free, and suitable for all skin types.

Sale price HK$240.00 / 180ml Regular price HK$265.00 / 180ml

ALCOHOL-FREE

FRAGRANCE-FREE

PARABEN-FREE/MIT-FREE

  • Cleansing
  • Skin Exfoliation
  • Acne Care
TEXTURE

A light and refreshing gel-like consistency with a delicate, airy foam

The Science Behind our AHA3 Cleanser

Five Effective Alpha Hydroxy Acids Blend for Better Skin The AHA3 Cleanser features a 3% plant-derived AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) blend, extracted from natural sources. This blend includes Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, and Tartaric Acid, primarily derived from kumquats, sugarcane, oranges, lemons, and sugar maple.The water-soluble AHA has low molecular weight which enables rapid penetration into the skin during the cleansing process. It exfoliates the skin by reducing the bonding between keratinocytes, facilitating the shedding of excess epidermal cells in the stratum corneum. This effectively cleans up accumulated dead skin cells, and purifies the pores, promoting skin renewal for more radiant-looking skin.

Gentle Amino Acid Cleansing, Sulfate-Free AHA3 Cleanser chooses Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, a mild cleansing agent that is gentle and does not cause irritation easily from deep cleansing. It is complemented by another gentle non-ionic surfactant, Decyl Glucoside, to enhance cleansing efficacy. The sulphate-free and oil-free formula creates a light foam dampened, leaving the skin refreshed and clean after cleansing.

Mildly Acidic The formula is specifically formulated to be mildly acidic (approximately pH 4-5), which is optimal to AHA for exfoliation. Regular use can boost skin’s metabolism, reduce the formation of blackheads and acne while improving skin’s texture and evening skin tone.

ASK OUR FORMULATOR

Q1. Isn't SLS a notorious cleansing ingredient? What does "SLS" in the AHA3 formula refer to?

These two are entirely different cleansing surfactants. The SLS chosen for AHA3 is "Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate," while the more irritating SLS is "Sodium Lauryl Sulfate." Although their names may appear similar, they are quite distinct. AHA3 uses Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, which is a very gentle amino acid surfactant. It is less likely to cause sensitivity and effectively removes dirt and excess oil from the face, deeply cleansing pores while maintaining the skin's natural protective barrier and overall health.

The often-criticized SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), does have extraodinary oil-removing abilities when used in appropriate concentrations. However, it is likely to lead to excessive cleansing and thus weakens the skin’s sebum barrier at high concentrations. People with sensitive skin is suggested to pay attention to products containing ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and opt for cleansers wit alternative mild surfactants. For instance, AHA3 Cleanser is a sulfate-free formula that incorporates amino acid surfactant and does not contain SLS or SLES, alleviating concerns about irritation.

Q2. How can I use acid products to enjoy exfoliating benefits without irritating my skin?

As we age, the turnover rate of the skin's stratum corneum slows down, leading to the accumulation of dead skin cells, rough skin texture, making it more difficult to absorb subsequent skincare products.

When using acid products at high concentrations, it may lead to over-exfoliation, damaging the skin’s natural skin barrier. This also disrupts the skin’s inherent microbiome balance, which may weaken the skin’s natural defenses.

To resolve such dilemma, it is crucial to balance the accurate concentration of active ingredients in the formula. AHA3 Cleanser promotes skin cell turnover by blending five alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) in appropriate proportions, which helps maintain healthy skin status. Additionally, understanding your skin type and adapting the usage of acids according to your specific skin conditions is crucial. For instance, for oily and acne-prone skin, you can use AHA3 Cleanser once or twice daily. For combination and dry skin, adjust the frequency based on your skin condition or use it periodically for exfoliation purposes.

HOW TO USE

Amount: one to two pumps.
Application: Begin with dry hands and a dry face. Apply an appropriate amount of the cleanser directly to your face, gently massaging in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes. Then, add a small amount of water to create lather and continue massaging. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, avoiding the eye area.

For oily and acne-prone skin: You can use it once or twice daily.
For combination and dry skin: Initially, try using it once a week and then adjust the frequency based on your skin's condition.

INGREDIENTS

KEY IINGREDIENTS
Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract
  • Gently exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells on the surface, promoting cell turnover, revealing smoother and brighter skin. AHA also stimulates collagen production and evening out skin tone.
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
  • Gentle Amino Acid Cleansing Ingredient, helps to bring softness and moisture to the skin.
FULL INGREDIENTS

Aqua/water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Chloride, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, PEG-7 Olivate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin

OTHERS

Upon initial use, it is normal if you experience mild stinging or itching. As your skin adapts to the use of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), this sensation will diminish.

If case of dryness, such as peeling or redness, please reduce the frequency of using this product.

This formula contains AHAs and should be avoided by those sensitive to this active ingredient.

For more fragile or sensitive skin, daily use is not recommended.

In case of severe irritation, stop using immediately and rinse the affected area with water. If the condition persists or worsens, please consult a healthcare professional for expert advice.

Patch test is recommended for any new products. Apply a small amount on the inner forearm or behind the ear for irritation or allergy.

AHA3 Sale price HK$240.00 / 180ml Regular price HK$265.00 / 180ml
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