Illuminate Lactic Acid Cleanser: Gentle Exfoliation Daily – Althaea Soul

Let’s Talk About Cleansers.

Not the harsh, tight-skin-inducing kind — we’ve moved past that era. We’re talking about the kind that respects your skin. The kind that deeply cleanses without drama, leaves your barrier intact, and makes your skin feel fresh, calm, and quietly radiant.

Illuminate Lactic Acid Cleanser is your new daily ritual — a refreshing gel-based formula that gently exfoliates as it cleans, sweeping away buildup without stripping your natural protective oils. Think clean, smooth, and radiant — every single time.

A Note on Lactic Acid

Lactic acid belongs to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family — naturally occurring in fermented sugars and milk, but in modern skincare, it’s synthetically derived for purity and precision.

It works by gently dissolving the bonds between dead surface cells, encouraging smoother, brighter skin without physical abrasion. Unlike harsher exfoliants, lactic acid is also a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture — making it one of the most barrier-friendly exfoliating acids available.

Science Insight: Clinical studies show that low-strength lactic acid (below ~10%) can improve hydration, cell renewal, and mild pigmentation while supporting barrier repair

Let’s Talk Formulation

Every ingredient in this cleanser was chosen to cleanse without compromise — no sulfates, no unnecessary fillers, and no irritation. Just gentle surfactants, soothing botanicals, and a perfectly balanced dose of lactic acid

Water (Aqua)

The carrier queen — helping every other ingredient spread evenly and work its magic.

Glycerin
A humectant hydration hero that draws water into your skin, ensuring zero tightness post-cleanse.

PEG-120 Glucose Methyl Dioleate
A super-mild foaming agent derived from glucose and fatty acids, known for creating a soft, creamy lather that’s sensitive skin–approved.

Capryl/Caprylyl Glucoside & Decyl Glucoside
Biodegradable, plant-based surfactants from sugar and coconut that cleanse effectively without disrupting your skin’s moisture barrier.

Lactic Acid
The star of the show. A gentle AHA that refines texture, brightens tone, and lightly exfoliates dull surface cells — while supporting hydration and barrier function.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine
A coconut-derived surfactant that boosts the mildness of the entire formula and gives that silky-smooth cleanse.

Sodium Lauroamphoacetate
Another ultra-gentle cleanser that enhances the creamy foam factor — minus the irritation.

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice (Aloe Barbadensis)
Soothes, hydrates, and brings calm to the cleansing process. Perfect for keeping skin balanced and happy.

Polyquaternium-7
A conditioning polymer that leaves skin soft and smooth, never squeaky or stripped.

Xanthan Gum
A natural thickener that gives Illuminate its smooth, luxurious gel texture for an even application.

Sodium Chloride
Helps tweak the consistency — for that just-right gel feel — without affecting your barrier.

Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin
A paraben-free preservation duo that keeps your cleanser fresh and safe. Gentle on skin, tough on bacteria.

Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil
A crisp, refreshing aromatic note that energises without irritation — used at safe, skin-friendly levels.

Why Use a Cleanser with Lactic Acid?

Because cleansing should do more than just remove. Illuminate is designed to refine — gently buffing away buildup, smoothing skin texture, and helping your complexion feel balanced and bright.

Unlike physical exfoliants or aggressive actives, lactic acid offers a more graceful kind of glow — one that respects your skin's moisture barrier and microbiome.

Here’s What Illuminate Delivers:

A gentle yet thorough daily cleanse
Light exfoliation to smooth and clarify
Hydration support for balance and barrier care
Soothing botanicals to calm and comfort
A subtly refreshing sensorial experience — no fake fragrance here

How to Use Illuminate

Dispense 1–2 pumps onto damp skin. Massage gently for 30–60 seconds to allow the lactic acid and botanical actives to do their thing. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.

Pro tip:

  • For normal, combination, or oily skin, use daily or as tolerated.

  • For sensitive or dry skin, start with 2–3 times per week and adjust based on how your skin feels.

Is This For Me?

✔️ Skin that feels dull, uneven, or a little congested
✔️ You’re looking for gentle exfoliation without grit or sting
✔️ You’ve got normal, combination, or oily skin
✔️ You care about your barrier (and don’t want to strip it)
✔️ You want that calm but luminous skin vibe

In Summary…

Illuminate Lactic Acid Cleanser isn’t just about clean skin — it’s about balanced skin.
Every wash becomes a small act of renewal: sweeping away the day while supporting hydration, radiance, and resilience.

Your skin deserves to be cleansed with care — not stripped into submission.

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