Get to Know this New Secret Ingredient for Glowing Skin

By Kylie Smith | January 27, 2022

Whether you’re a skincare beginner or skincare obsessed — no judgement here! — chances are you’ve heard of AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids). These chemical exfoliants are well-known for their ability to slough off skin’s surface layer and expose brighter, fresher, more even-looking skin underneath. On the downside, they’re also known for their potential to cause redness, itchiness and stinging — and disrupt your skin’s natural protective barrier.

That’s where Phyto-AHA comes in. When we created our new AGELESS Phyto-AHA* Radiance Facial, we wanted to offer an alternative to traditional AHAs that provided the same skin-improving benefits without irritation. To achieve that goal, our chemists turned to mushroom enzymes. Specifically, a mushroom called Mucor Miehei. 

“We chose this enzyme because it closely mimics a natural enzyme in the human body called Cathepsin D, which helps to exfoliate by directly targeting dead surface skin,” says Jennifer Masci, Director of Skincare Product Development. “This provides even and gentle exfoliation, similar to the body’s natural shedding process.”

It turns out, targeting only dead surface skin is a key difference between enzymes and traditional AHAs. 

“AHAs can’t discriminate between fresh and dead skin, so they’re both sloughed off during the exfoliation process,” Jen explains. “This can lead to over-exfoliation and even potentially damage your skin’s protective barrier. But because Phyto-AHA* is formulated with mushroom enzymes, it has the ability to focus on just dead surface skin — fresh skin is left intact. This makes it nearly impossible to over-exfoliate.”

To nourish and help maintain a healthy skin barrier, we’ve also included Plant-Based Glycerin in our AGELESS Phyto-AHA* Radiance Facial. As always, the formula is clean, vegan and cruelty-free. With regular use you’ll notice brighter and more even-toned skin, visibly reduced fine lines and wrinkles, and smaller-looking pores. Just apply evenly to clean skin, leave on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

“I like to apply the mask before I hop in the tub for a little soak,” Jen says. “It does the work while I get a chance to unwind from the day, and leaves me feeling relaxed, hydrated and glowing.”

Use it up to 3 times a week for brighter, healthier-looking skin — and don’t forget to pair with a sunscreen like SKINLONGEVITY Vital Power SPF 30 Moisturizer during the day to protect your skin and help your radiant results last. 

One more note: AGELESS Phyto-AHA* Radiance Facial is suitable for even the most sensitive skin types, but if you happen to be allergic to mushrooms, please consult your dermatologist before use, just to stay on the safe side.

 *Plant-based AHA alternative.  

Kylie Smith

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