The Acne-Fighting Superheroes You Need to Know
A powerful band of superheroes assembles to defeat acne and restore order to your universe. (Or at least your face.) Have you seen this film? Did the heroes win? If not, maybe you were watching the B-movie with the amateur cast. This summer, meet the A-list acne avengers as they unleash their powers to clear, control, and conquer all acne in their path.
Benzoyl Peroxide: The Eradicator
Benzoyl peroxide has one job: to kill acne bacteria, and it does it better than any other acne-fighter. With the laser focus and relentless efficiency of a ninja, BP penetrates the pore and releases oxygen to kill bacteria. Its comedolytic powers mean it also peels away impactions. Acne in all its forms—from vexing little white bumps to angry red pustules—can be treated with benzoyl peroxide on both face and body. It works quickly, improving acne as early as five days after starting treatment.
HERO PRODUCTS:
Creamy and soothing, yet vigorously cleansing. The first stop for skin new to benzoyl peroxide.
The king of acne cleansers. Excellent for targeting acne on the face, back, forearms, or for use after a sweaty workout.
This high concentration gel formula delivers extra firepower against tough breakouts for oily or resistant skin.
Retinoid (Vitamin A): The Resurfacer
Vivant’s Vitamin A Propionate is the most effective non-prescription retinoid available. Its small molecular size allows it to reach the deeper layers of the dermis to accelerate cell turnover, peel away impactions, unblock pores, and help keep new pimples from forming. Dr. Fulton co-developed the gold standard prescription form Retin-A® and later developed and patented vitamin A propionate, as a non-prescription alternative that delivers the strength, minus the irritation. Especially good for targeting deeper impactions and more resistant acne, it also works to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, making it an excellent choice for adult acne.
HERO PRODUCTS:
This starter formula for skin new to retinoid accelerates cell turnover to clear away dead skin, excess sebum, and debris that would otherwise clog pores.
A more advanced formula for skin already acclimated to retinoid, this synergistic blend of acids and vitamin A propionate takes your acne regimen to the next level. 2019 Aestheticians’ Choice Award winner for Best Retinol Serum.
Clinical Mandelic Acid: The Brightener
Dr. Fulton pioneered the use of mandelic acid for treating acne in dark skin prone to hyperpigmentation. This antioxidant multi-tasker derived from almonds has many superpowers. It’s larger molecular structure slows absorption to produce less irritation than most other acids. It’s a micro-exfoliator and melanin-inhibitor, so it helps reduce existing discoloration and block the formation of new pigment. And it has anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties to kill acne bacteria and prevent new pimples from forming.
HERO PRODUCTS:
Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser
A fresh, hydrating scrub to control acne bacteria, guard against scarring, and promote clear, bright, even-toned skin.
Mandelic and lactic acids blended with nourishing witch hazel and natural humectants to refine surface texture without drying.
The ideal non-irritating formula for targeting breakouts, discoloration, and signs of aging in dark skin tones prone to hyperpigmentation. Safe for use during pregnancy.
Salicylic Acid: The Disruptor
Similar to alpha hydroxy acids, this beta hydroxy acid works by disrupting the bonds between skin cells and promoting exfoliation. But salicylic acid goes a step further. It’s oil soluble, which means it can get past the lipid layers of skin to reach into pores and to dissolve dead skin cells and debris, something AHAs can’t manage. Once inside the pore, salicylic acid acts as an anti-inflammatory to calm angry pimples, so they clear faster. It works best paired with benzoyl peroxide to kill acne bacteria. In combination with alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid enhances brightening and regenerative effects because of its superior ability to reach into pores.
HERO PRODUCTS:
An advanced toner that pairs salicylic acid with witch hazel, plus lactic, glycolic and citric acids for brighter, clearer tone.
Improve skin texture and tone while prepping skin for better absorption of Vivant’s rejuvenating serums with these go-anywhere single-use clarifying pads.
Retinoid (Vitamin A), plus Salicylic acid and alpha hydroxy acids, form an intensely transformative union in this high-performance serum. Best for skin already acclimated to vitamin A therapies.
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