Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser, 6 fl. oz.

Product Information

Bottom Line: An alcohol-free, mild resurfacing toner that uses glycolic acid to promote mild exfoliation, but keep in mind the formula includes parabens and fragrance.

Before purchasing Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, here’s a summary of the most important factors to consider:Now onto the not-so-good ingredients you’ll find in these products. Unfortunately, this brand uses parabens and fragrance in nearly all of their products. So why is this a problem? Let’s take a look at the research. Vitamin C also helps fade dark spots, evens out skin tone, and increases radiance. As if that wasn’t enough, research suggests that when vitamin C is applied to the skin, it significantly reverses aging-related structural changes by influencing collagen and elastin synthesis. Like most cleansers, the formula contains surfactants as key ingredients. A surfactant molecule contains one end that is hydrophilic (attracted to water) and one end that is lipophilic (attracted to oil). This allows surfactants to attract and suspend oils, dirt, and other impurities that have accumulated on the skin and wash them away. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radicals, the unstable molecules that contribute to the formation of premature wrinkles and fine lines on the skin.

There’s a range of key ingredients used throughout the Mario Badescu skin care collection, for example, the brand uses AHAs, salicylic acid, sodium hyaluronate, and vitamin C. Vitamin C is an ingredient that we recommend for all skin types. Here’s why: It won’t come as a surprise that the heavy-hitting ingredient here is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid is part of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family, which is known to slough off surface cells, leaving the complexion smooth and even. AHAs don't dissolve oil, so they won't clear out clogged pores—try something with a BHA if that's what you are looking for. But they will remove the dead skin that contributes to congestion. You’ll also find supporting ingredients in this formula, such as hydrating humectants, skin-softening emollients, and soothing botanical extracts like cucumber and ginseng. Think of it this way: The pink dot you make on your face works like a teeny overnight mask that gives targeted attention to your blemish. You want the product to be clay-like when it’s applied so that it goes on opaque and pink, completely covering the bump. When you shake, that sediment becomes diluted.The name of this product includes “enzyme” because of the papaya fruit extract in the formula. Papaya is rich in an enzyme called papain. Bottom Line: A clay-based mask that contains beneficial skin-brightening ingredients, but keep in mind the formula contains parabens and fragrance.