Chemical Exfoliant

A chemical exfoliant is a product that uses acids or enzymes to loosen and remove dead cells from the skin surface, rather than scrubbing them away physically. This category includes AHAs, BHA, PHAs, and enzyme-based exfoliants.

These ingredients work by weakening the bonds that hold dead surface cells together, so the cells shed more evenly on their own. Compared with physical scrubs, chemical exfoliants can act more uniformly across the skin and avoid the micro-tears sometimes caused by abrasive particles. The result is often smoother texture, more even tone, and clearer-looking pores.

• AHAs (e.g. glycolic, lactic) — water-soluble, surface exfoliation
• BHA (salicylic acid) — oil-soluble, works inside pores
• PHAs (e.g. gluconolactone) — gentler, larger molecules
• Enzymes — typically mild, often from fruit

Chemical exfoliants are usually introduced a few times a week and adjusted according to tolerance. Overuse, or combining several at once, can lead to irritation, stinging, or a compromised skin barrier. Many increase sun sensitivity, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is generally advised.