Budget options for Chemical Exfoliation

I'm sure I'm not the only one who has dabbled in using chemical exfoliants to refine and gently buff the skin. But in reality, my skin tends to get used to one product after a while and it becomes less effective. Here are my options that are incredibly effective without breaking the bank.

Yes To Grapefruit Brightening Facial Wipes - £3.99

I could pretend that I never have lazy days with my skincare, but that's just unrealistic. These textured wipes act as a 2-in-1 and take off make-up whilst those citric acids get to work blitzing away any breakouts. They are 98% natural and are actually really good at removing a full face of slap - the snap closure helps to keep them moist and you only ever need one.

Nip & Fab Glycolic Fix Exfoliating Pads - £12.99

These pads are often on offer for around £6 and are an absolute dream to use. Packed with glycolic and hyaluronic acids, it is perfect for drier skins and daisy extract is used for brightening any dark marks and blemishes. The smell is very inoffensive and the witch hazel makes it a great choice for an exfoliating toner. Unlike the wipes, these are better value with 60 pads per tub compared to 25 wipes.

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator - £25

Okay, this doesn't really count as budget, but it is on the lower end of the spectrum regardless and it is one of the milder exfoliants available. Suitable for sensitive skin, you just need to go over your face with a cotton pad and it clears away any dead skin cells. I'd still say this is worth the high price tag as the bottle has lasted me around 6 or 7 months and are gentle enough to use daily.

Are there any similar products you enjoy using?

Candice x  


 

Sun Damage Saviours - Murad Environmental Shield

I know I've already shared my views on most of this range before, but the Environmental Shield has done wonders over the warmer months to prevent and reverse the effects of sun damage. It was only this year that I took a close look at my skin and learnt the difference between sun spots (which originate at the surface) and acne scarring which occurs on a much deeper level. These products contain a stable form of potent Vitamin C to perk up the complexion and defend against free radicals. These items come in a starter kit complete with an eye cream, which you can now get for £29.50. 

The Essential-C Cleanser is a firm favourite of mine and I always break it out during the summer as a quick morning cleanse. The orange beads contain antioxidants to perk up the complexion and is completely non-drying despite having to work the gel into a foam. It has been a godsend for my dehydrated skin and is excellent for getting rid of pollutants and city grime as a second cleanse.

Despite its anti-aging properties (have you read my thoughts on that yet?) I am finding it pretty hard to find fault with the Advanced Active Radiance Serum. I use it every morning in conjunction with the cleanser and my skin has become brighter within 3 months of use. A lot of dark spots have been cleared because of this serum! It uses AHA's to refine the skin and imparts an effective hit of Vitamin C to help correct any sun damage. I tend to use AHA's during my night-time routine, so this only gets used once daily to avoid overloading my skin. It is mighty expensive (the full price is £100) but it has been so effective that I might just cave. BeautyBay are selling it for £60 here. 

Lastly, if you do use exfoliating acids or want to protect against sun damage, a high performance SPF is a must. Especially in summer. I was originally using another Murad oil free formulated SPF15 from the Pore refiner range, but then again I didn't want to undo all the good things that happened to my face. So as spring turned to summer, I made the switch to the Essential C- Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 and never looked back. It protects against UVA and UVB rays and still manages to be non-greasy and natural looking i.e. no white cast for those with darker skins. I have fallen for it, it has a rich texture and my purse is weeping as I will have to replace it shortly. It is £57 here.

I know that the range is pricey, but there is a difference between falling for hyped products and investing in your skin. These starter kits are a great entry point into the brand and if you have to get one item from the range I would suggest the serum, which as also been spotted in TK Maxx in recent months. If you have any experiences or solutions for sun damage, I would love to hear them.

Candice xx