KIEHL'S Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel
Complete ingredient analysis for KIEHL'S SINCE 1851 Clearly Corrective Daily Re-Texturizing Triple Acid Peel. Get detailed safety ratings, benefits, and concerns for every ingredient.
Full INCI (as provided by producer)
Overall Analysis
This is a well-formulated, multi-acid exfoliating serum that combines 5.5% AHAs (glycolic and lactic), 0.18% BHA (salicylic), and 3.0% PHA (gluconolactone) for effective yet relatively gentle daily exfoliation. The inclusion of soothing copper gluconate and skin-identical arginine helps balance the potential irritation from the acids, making it suitable for many skin types when used correctly with daily SPF.
Beneficial Ingredients (7)
Concerning Ingredients (3)
Detailed Ingredient Analysis
Water is the main ingredient in most skincare products, serving as the base that dissolves and carries other ingredients. It provides a lightweight, non-comedogenic delivery system and helps maintain product stability and spreadability.
Glycolic acid is a small-molecule alpha hydroxy acid that penetrates deeply into the skin to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. It’s highly effective for resurfacing and brightening but requires careful use and strict sun protection to avoid irritation and photosensitivity.
Propanediol is a plant-derived solvent and humectant that helps stabilize the formula, enhance penetration of actives, and improve the sensory experience. It’s generally well-tolerated and considered a gentler alternative to propylene glycol.
Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin’s surface while also acting as a humectant to draw in moisture. It’s slightly gentler than glycolic acid but still potent enough to improve texture, radiance, and clarity with regular use.
Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid that offers mild, surface-level exfoliation with less irritation than AHAs. It also has antioxidant properties and helps strengthen the skin barrier, making it ideal for daily use in a multi-acid formula.
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and exfoliate from within. It’s excellent for clearing out clogged pores and improving texture but should be used cautiously on dry or reactive skin types.
Glycerin is a classic humectant that draws water into the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and plump. It also supports the skin barrier and improves the overall feel of the product, making it more comfortable to apply.
Cellulose gum is a plant-derived thickener that gives the serum a light gel consistency and helps suspend ingredients evenly. It improves the sensory experience without adding significant comedogenic risk.
Copper gluconate is a copper salt that has soothing and skin-supportive properties. In this formula, it helps counteract potential irritation from the acids, making the peel gentler and more suitable for daily use.
Arginine is a naturally occurring amino acid that helps maintain skin hydration and barrier function. It also acts as a mild pH buffer, helping to stabilize the formula and reduce potential irritation from the acids.
Sodium hydroxide is used in very small amounts to adjust the pH of the formula so that the acids are effective but not excessively irritating. It is fully neutralized in the final product and does not pose a risk when used as directed.
Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative that prevents contamination by bacteria and fungi. While generally considered safe at low concentrations, it can be sensitizing for some people, especially those with very reactive skin.
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