Right before the directions, on the back of Dr. Neal Shultz's exfoliating pads, there's an all-caps warning: NOT A STARTER STRENGTH PRODUCT. If it were a traffic sign, it would be "proceed with caution," maybe even "do not enter" for some; for me, it's a green light and a promise of results. After years of testing just about every mask, cream, peel and at-home laser that hits my desk, I've found that my skin isn't super-sensitive—on the one hand, I don't break out or get red easily; on the other, I need products that pack a punch to see a difference.
This treatment does just that—10% glycolic acid (along with the brand's proprietary complex of glycolic, salicylic, lactic and phytic acids) buffs away dead skin cells and fades dark spots—but without any drying or peeling. It's one of the rare chemical exfoliators that is both advanced strength and gentle enough for every other day use. I've been using it on my face, my chest and legs to tone spots and scars and my bikini line to prevent ingrowns—it's making my skin brighter and smoother, from head to toe.
BeautyRx Advanced 10% Exfoliating Therapy Pads, $70, beautyrx.com.
