An effective exfoliating cleanser for face, décolleté and shoulders

By Marta Wohrle, Founder of Truth in Aging

I believe that cleansers are the foundation of good skincare. Nonetheless, I regard exfoliating cleansers with caution because it is all too easy to have too much of a good thing. Skin 2 Skin Care AB-HA Exfoliating Cleanser ($42 in the shop) has made its way into my regimen and I have found that it goes way beyond facial cleansing to be a godsend for décolleté and shoulders.

This cleansing exfoliator includes alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), glycolic and lactic, and the beta hydroxy acid (BHA) salicylic. AHAs are clinically proven to loosen the glue-like substances that hold skin cells together, thus shedding the top layer of dull and damaged skin. Unlike alpha hydroxy acids, which are water-soluble, beta hydroxy acids (BHA) and BHA-esters are lipid (or oil) soluble. This means that they not only exfoliate the upper layer of skin, but also penetrate deep through the epidermis to rid the dead skin cells and excess oil built up in the pores.

The skin gets a gentle and pleasant massage from jojoba beads. Skin 2 Skin Care AB-HA Exfoliating Cleanser has a nice creamy texture and a refreshing citrus scent. It is not at all drying, in fact the skin is soft, smooth and hydrated.

Although AB-HA is probably gentle enough to use daily, I used it 2-3 times a week. However, I did happily extend use to my décolleté and shoulders, where it deserves a medal. I am prone to unattractive and annoying breakouts on my chest , back of next and shoulders. I am especially afflicted at this time of the year when I get itchy and sweaty under layers of winter clothing. For the past few weeks AB-HA has kept my skin glowing and clear.