Paula's Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant Review

Exfoliator

6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant

Paula's Choice

Use With Caution

$37

Sephora

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Info

Exfoliator

6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant

Paula's Choice

Description

Resurface skin with a powerful yet gentle blend of mandelic & lactic AHA exfoliants for smoother, softer & brighter skin.

Formula

Aqua/Water/Eau

Safety

No Warnings

Aqua/Water/Eau is simply the term used for water in cosmetic formulations. It's primarily used as a solvent in cosmetics, meaning it's used to dissolve many of the other ingredients that make up a product. When you see Aqua/Water/Eau listed in the ingredients of a product, it's typically referring to purified water - free of toxins, pollutants and microbes.

Most cosmetics contain a large amount of water (often 70-80% of the total), making it the most commonly used ingredient in such products. The water used in cosmetics can be of different types, such as distilled water, mineral water, or thermal water, which all offer various properties and benefits.

Here are some of the key functions of water in cosmetic products:

Solvent: As mentioned, water acts as a solvent for many ingredients, helping to dissolve them and make a homogeneous solution.
Humectant: Water also acts as a humectant, meaning it helps to retain or preserve moisture. This is why it's often used in products like moisturizers, lotions, and creams.
Diluent: Water is used as a diluent to reduce the concentration of other ingredients. This is particularly useful when dealing with potent substances that might cause irritation or other issues if used undiluted.
Carrier: Water can act as a carrier, helping to spread other ingredients across the skin.
Rehydration: Water can also rehydrate dry or dehydrated skin and hair, providing a feeling of freshness and comfort.

2,3-Butanediol

Safety

Insufficient Data

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

Source

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2,3-Butanediol is a type of organic compound that belongs to the family of glycols, which are known for their moisturizing and humectant properties. In cosmetic formulations, 2,3-Butanediol is primarily used as a skin conditioning agent, humectant, and solvent. It helps to retain moisture in the skin, improve skin texture, and enhance the overall feel of cosmetic products. Additionally, it can also act as a solvent for other ingredients, making it easier to mix and incorporate them into the final formulation. Common use cases for 2,3-Butanediol in cosmetics include skincare products, hair care products, and makeup products, where it contributes to a more pleasant and effective user experience.

Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. It is a gentle exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells, promote cell turnover, and improve skin texture and tone. In cosmetic formulations, mandelic acid is commonly used in products like facial cleansers, toners, serums, and peels.Its larger molecular size makes it less irritating and more suitable for sensitive skin types compared to other AHAs like glycolic acid. Mandelic acid is known for its antibacterial properties, making it effective in treating acne-prone skin. Additionally, it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even and radiant complexion.

Please note: The safety of this ingredient has not been assessed. It is recommended to do your own research before using products containing this ingredient.

Lactic Acid

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

Source

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Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from fermented milk or plant sources. It is a popular ingredient in cosmetic formulations due to its exfoliating, moisturizing, and skin-brightening properties. In simple terms, Lactic Acid helps to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing smoother, more radiant skin.Some common use cases of Lactic Acid in cosmetic formulations include:1. Exfoliants: Lactic Acid is often used in facial peels, masks, and scrubs to gently remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.2. Moisturizers: Due to its humectant properties, Lactic Acid helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin, making it a popular ingredient in creams, lotions, and serums.3. Anti-aging products: Lactic Acid can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production and promoting cell renewal.4. Skin brighteners: Lactic Acid can help to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.5. Acne treatments: By unclogging pores and promoting cell turnover, Lactic Acid can help to reduce acne breakouts and improve the overall appearance of the skin.Overall, Lactic Acid is a versatile and effective ingredient in cosmetic formulations, offering a range of benefits for various skin types and concerns.

Sodium Hydroxide

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

Source

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Sodium Hydroxide, also known as lye or caustic soda, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula NaOH. It is a strong alkaline substance that is commonly used in cosmetic formulations for various purposes.In cosmetics, Sodium Hydroxide serves primarily as a pH adjuster and buffering agent. It helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of a product by controlling its acidity or alkalinity. This is important because the pH level of a product can affect its performance, safety, and skin compatibility.Some common use cases of Sodium Hydroxide in cosmetic formulations include:1. Soap making: Sodium Hydroxide is a key ingredient in the traditional process of saponification, where it reacts with oils or fats to create soap. This reaction produces glycerol and a sodium salt of the fatty acid, which forms the soap.2. Hair relaxers: Sodium Hydroxide is used in hair relaxer formulations to break the disulfide bonds in the hair's keratin structure, allowing the hair to be straightened.3. Exfoliants: In some cosmetic formulations, Sodium Hydroxide is used in low concentrations to create a mild exfoliating effect on the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and promote a smoother complexion.4. Emulsifiers: Sodium Hydroxide can be used to neutralize fatty acids, creating emulsifying agents that help to stabilize oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions in cosmetic products.It is important to note that Sodium Hydroxide should be used with caution in cosmetic formulations, as it can be highly caustic and irritating to the skin and eyes at high concentrations. Formulators must ensure that the final product has a safe and appropriate pH level for its intended use.

Myrica Cerifera (Bayberry) Fruit Extract

Please note: The safety of this ingredient has not been assessed. It is recommended to do your own research before using products containing this ingredient.

Akebia Quinata (Chocolate Vine) Stem Extract

Please note: The safety of this ingredient has not been assessed. It is recommended to do your own research before using products containing this ingredient.

Prunus Lannesiana (Cherry Blossom) Flower Extract

Please note: The safety of this ingredient has not been assessed. It is recommended to do your own research before using products containing this ingredient.

Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate

Please note: The safety of this ingredient has not been assessed. It is recommended to do your own research before using products containing this ingredient.

Saccharomyces Lysate

Saccharomyces Lysate is a yeast extract derived from the Saccharomyces cerevisiae species. It is rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients that can provide various benefits to cosmetic formulations.In cosmetic products, Saccharomyces Lysate is primarily used for its skin conditioning, moisturizing, and revitalizing properties. It helps to improve skin texture, hydration, and overall appearance. Additionally, it can also provide antioxidant protection, support skin barrier function, and promote skin cell renewal.Some common use cases for Saccharomyces Lysate in cosmetic formulations include:1. Facial serums and creams: It can be incorporated into facial serums and creams to provide hydration, improve skin texture, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion.2. Anti-aging products: Due to its antioxidant properties and ability to support skin cell renewal, Saccharomyces Lysate is often used in anti-aging formulations to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.3. Masks and treatments: It can be added to facial masks and treatments to provide an extra boost of nourishment and revitalization to the skin.4. Hair care products: Saccharomyces Lysate can also be used in hair care formulations to help improve hair strength, shine, and overall health.Overall, Saccharomyces Lysate is a versatile and beneficial ingredient that can be used in a variety of cosmetic formulations to enhance skin and hair health.

Please note: The safety of this ingredient has not been assessed. It is recommended to do your own research before using products containing this ingredient.

Achillea Millefolium Extract

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

Source

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Achillea Millefolium Extract, commonly known as Yarrow Extract, is a natural ingredient derived from the Achillea Millefolium plant. It is widely used in cosmetic formulations due to its various beneficial properties for the skin. The extract is rich in flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties. These properties make it an ideal ingredient for various cosmetic products, including:1. Soothing and calming products: The anti-inflammatory properties of Achillea Millefolium Extract help to soothe and calm irritated or sensitive skin, making it suitable for products targeting redness, inflammation, and skin sensitivities.2. Anti-aging products: The antioxidant properties of the extract help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals, which can cause premature aging. It can be used in formulations targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin rejuvenation.3. Acne-prone and oily skin products: The astringent properties of Achillea Millefolium Extract help to tighten and tone the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and controlling excess oil production. This makes it a suitable ingredient for products targeting acne-prone and oily skin types.4. Healing and repair products: The extract has been known to promote skin healing and repair, making it a useful ingredient in products targeting scars, wounds, and other skin imperfections.In summary, Achillea Millefolium Extract is a versatile and beneficial ingredient in cosmetic formulations, offering soothing, antioxidant, astringent, and healing properties for various skin concerns and types.

Saccharide Isomerate

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Saccharide Isomerate is a plant-derived carbohydrate complex that mimics the natural carbohydrate fraction found in the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum. It is obtained through the isomerization of plant sugars and has excellent water-binding properties.In cosmetic formulations, Saccharide Isomerate is primarily used as a natural moisturizing agent due to its ability to attract and bind water molecules, providing long-lasting hydration to the skin. It helps to strengthen the skin's natural barrier function, reduce dryness, and improve overall skin texture. It is suitable for various cosmetic products, including creams, lotions, serums, and masks, and can be used in formulations targeting sensitive, dry, or dehydrated skin.

Arginine

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Arginine is a naturally occurring amino acid that plays a vital role in various biological processes. In cosmetic formulations, it is primarily used for its moisturizing, skin-soothing, and anti-aging properties. It helps to maintain skin hydration, improve skin elasticity, and promote collagen production. Additionally, Arginine can also function as a pH adjuster, stabilizing the pH levels in cosmetic products. It is commonly found in skincare products such as creams, lotions, serums, and masks, as well as in hair care products like shampoos and conditioners.

Hydroxyacetophenone

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Hydroxyacetophenone is a synthetic antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent derived from acetylphenol. It is used in cosmetic formulations for its multiple benefits, including:1. Antioxidant properties: Hydroxyacetophenone helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors, which can contribute to premature aging and skin damage.2. Skin-conditioning agent: It helps improve the skin's texture and appearance by providing hydration and softness.3. Preservative booster: Hydroxyacetophenone can enhance the effectiveness of other preservatives in cosmetic formulations, ensuring product stability and preventing microbial growth.4. Anti-irritant: It can help reduce skin irritation and inflammation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types and formulations targeting skin issues like redness and inflammation.Overall, Hydroxyacetophenone is a versatile ingredient used in various cosmetic products, such as creams, lotions, serums, and cleansers, to provide antioxidant protection, improve skin condition, and ensure product stability.

Butylene Glycol

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Butylene Glycol is a colorless, organic alcohol derived from petroleum. It is commonly used in cosmetic formulations due to its versatile properties. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and viscosity controller, making it a popular ingredient in various skincare and makeup products.In simple terms, Butylene Glycol helps to:1. Dissolve and mix ingredients: As a solvent, it helps to dissolve and combine different ingredients in a formulation, ensuring a smooth and even texture.2. Retain moisture: As a humectant, it attracts and holds onto water, keeping the skin hydrated and maintaining the product's moisture content.3. Control consistency: It helps to adjust the thickness and flow of the product, making it easier to apply and spread on the skin.Some common cosmetic products containing Butylene Glycol include creams, lotions, serums, cleansers, and makeup products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, but some individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation or allergic reactions.

Sodium Phytate

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Sodium Phytate, also known as Sodium Phytate or Phytic Acid Sodium Salt, is a natural chelating agent derived from plant seeds, particularly rice bran and legumes. It is used in cosmetic formulations for its ability to bind with metal ions, preventing them from causing undesirable effects on the product's stability, color, and texture.In cosmetic formulations, Sodium Phytate is primarily used for:1. Enhancing product stability: By chelating metal ions, Sodium Phytate helps prevent oxidation and rancidity, thereby extending the shelf life of the product.2. Improving product performance: Sodium Phytate can improve the efficacy of certain active ingredients by preventing them from interacting with metal ions, which can reduce their effectiveness.3. Enhancing product aesthetics: By preventing metal ions from interacting with other ingredients, Sodium Phytate can help maintain the desired color, texture, and consistency of the product.Overall, Sodium Phytate is a versatile and eco-friendly ingredient that can be found in various cosmetic products, including skincare, hair care, and makeup products, to ensure their stability, performance, and aesthetics.

Pentylene Glycol

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Pentylene Glycol is a versatile, synthetic humectant and solvent that is used in cosmetic formulations. It is a colorless, odorless liquid that helps to moisturize the skin, improve product texture, and enhance the stability of cosmetic products. In simple terms, it helps to retain moisture, dissolve ingredients, and keep the product fresh for a longer time.Some common use cases of Pentylene Glycol in cosmetic formulations include:1. Skin care products: It is used in creams, lotions, and serums to provide hydration and improve the overall feel of the product on the skin.2. Hair care products: It can be found in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to help moisturize the hair and improve product performance.3. Makeup products: Pentylene Glycol is used in foundations, concealers, and other makeup products to enhance their texture and help them spread evenly on the skin.4. Cleansers: It can be used in facial cleansers and makeup removers to help dissolve dirt, oil, and makeup, making them easier to rinse away.5. Preservative systems: Pentylene Glycol can also be used as a part of a preservative system in cosmetic products, as it helps to prevent the growth of microorganisms and prolong the shelf life of the product.

Xanthan Gum

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Xanthan Gum is a natural polysaccharide derived from the fermentation of sugars by the Xanthomonas campestris bacterium. It is widely used in cosmetic formulations due to its excellent thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying properties.In cosmetics, Xanthan Gum serves several purposes:1. Thickening agent: It helps to increase the viscosity of cosmetic products, such as creams, lotions, and gels, making them easier to apply and spread on the skin.2. Stabilizer: Xanthan Gum helps to maintain the consistency and stability of formulations by preventing the separation of ingredients, ensuring a uniform texture and appearance.3. Emulsifier: It assists in the blending of oil and water-based ingredients, creating a smooth and homogenous mixture.4. Suspension agent: Xanthan Gum helps to suspend insoluble particles, such as pigments or exfoliants, in a formulation, ensuring even distribution throughout the product.5. Rheology modifier: It can improve the flow and spreadability of cosmetic products, providing a pleasant sensory experience during application.Overall, Xanthan Gum is a versatile and valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations, contributing to the stability, texture, and performance of various personal care products.

Citric Acid

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Citric Acid is a naturally occurring, weak organic acid found in various citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. In cosmetic formulations, it serves multiple purposes, including:1. pH Adjuster: Citric Acid helps to regulate and maintain the pH level of a product, ensuring its stability and effectiveness. It is particularly useful in balancing the pH of alkaline products.2. Exfoliant: As an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), Citric Acid gently exfoliates the skin by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting a smoother and more even complexion.3. Antioxidant: Citric Acid has antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals that can cause premature aging.4. Chelating Agent: It can bind to metal ions, preventing them from causing product spoilage or negatively affecting the product's performance.5. Preservative: In some cases, Citric Acid can act as a mild preservative, extending the shelf life of cosmetic products.Overall, Citric Acid is a versatile and valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations, contributing to product stability, efficacy, and skin benefits.

Sodium Citrate

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Sodium Citrate is a salt derived from citric acid, a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits. In cosmetic formulations, it serves multiple purposes, including:1. pH adjuster: Sodium Citrate helps to regulate and maintain the pH balance of a product, ensuring its stability and effectiveness. It can be used to neutralize acidic or alkaline substances, creating a more skin-friendly pH level.2. Buffering agent: It acts as a buffering agent, helping to maintain the stability of a product's pH level even when other ingredients are added or when the product is exposed to external factors.3. Chelating agent: Sodium Citrate can bind to metal ions, preventing them from causing unwanted reactions or affecting the stability and appearance of the product. This is particularly useful in water-based formulations, where metal ions can cause discoloration or affect the product's shelf life.4. Emulsion stabilizer: It can help to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions, ensuring that the oil and water phases do not separate over time. This is important for maintaining the consistency and effectiveness of products like creams and lotions.Overall, Sodium Citrate is a versatile and valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations, contributing to the stability, appearance, and performance of various products.

1,2-Hexanediol

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

Source

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1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic, versatile ingredient used in cosmetic formulations. It is a colorless liquid that functions primarily as a humectant and solvent. In simple terms, it helps to retain moisture in the skin and hair, while also dissolving other ingredients in the formulation, ensuring a smooth and even texture.Some common use cases of 1,2-Hexanediol in cosmetic formulations include:1. Skin care products: It is used in creams, lotions, and serums to provide hydration and improve the overall texture of the product.2. Hair care products: It can be found in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to help retain moisture and improve the manageability of hair.3. Makeup products: It is used in foundations, concealers, and other makeup products to enhance their spreadability and ensure a smooth application.4. Preservative booster: While not a preservative itself, 1,2-Hexanediol can enhance the effectiveness of other preservatives in the formulation, helping to protect the product from microbial contamination.Overall, 1,2-Hexanediol is a valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations due to its ability to improve product texture, provide hydration, and boost the performance of other ingredients.

Caprylyl Glycol

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

Source

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Caprylyl Glycol is a versatile, multi-functional ingredient used in cosmetic formulations. It is a clear, colorless liquid derived from caprylic acid, which is a fatty acid found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Caprylyl Glycol serves several purposes in cosmetic products, including:1. Humectant: It helps to retain moisture in the skin by attracting water molecules from the surrounding environment. This makes it an excellent ingredient for hydrating and moisturizing products like creams, lotions, and serums.2. Emollient: Caprylyl Glycol has a softening and smoothing effect on the skin, making it feel more supple and comfortable. This property is beneficial in products designed to improve skin texture and appearance.3. Emulsifier: It helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients together, creating a stable and uniform mixture. This is particularly useful in formulations that contain both water and oil components, such as creams and lotions.4. Preservative booster: Caprylyl Glycol has antimicrobial properties, which can help to extend the shelf life of cosmetic products by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is often used in combination with other preservatives to enhance their effectiveness.Overall, Caprylyl Glycol is a valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations due to its moisturizing, emollient, emulsifying, and preservative-boosting properties. It is commonly found in a wide range of products, including skincare, haircare, and makeup items.

Sodium Benzoate

Safety

No Warnings

Reference

Cosmetic Ingredient Review

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Sodium Benzoate is a widely used preservative in cosmetic formulations. It is the sodium salt of benzoic acid, a naturally occurring organic compound found in various fruits and spices. In cosmetics, Sodium Benzoate helps to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, thereby extending the shelf life of the products.Some common use cases of Sodium Benzoate in cosmetic formulations include:1. Skin care products: Sodium Benzoate is used in creams, lotions, and moisturizers to keep them fresh and free from microbial contamination.2. Hair care products: It is added to shampoos, conditioners, and hair styling products to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage.3. Makeup products: Sodium Benzoate can be found in foundations, concealers, and other makeup products to ensure they remain safe for use over time.4. Personal care products: It is used in deodorants, body washes, and other personal care items to keep them free from harmful microorganisms.Overall, Sodium Benzoate is a valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations due to its preservative properties, helping to maintain product quality and safety for consumers.

No Warnings