The words 'acid exfoliant' might sound scary, especially for those with sensitive skin. But the truth is, they can be a game-changer in making your skin texture more even. They can also make your makeup smoother and longer-lasting.

A liquid containing the right blend of dead-skin-sloughing alpha or beta hydroxy acids can be infinitely more gentle and effective than those gritty physical scrub exfoliants many still reach for. They're even more gentle than physical scrubs.

The influence of South Korea's wildly popular milky toners, with their focus on hydration and skin-barrier protection, is evident in a new crop of milky acid exfoliants. These products combine sturdy skin-clearing acids with skin-softening, soothing ingredients to cushion the blow.

One example is the US brand Naturium, which has recently launched its Multi Bright Milky Toner. This toner is a blend of exfoliating polyhydroxy acid gluconolactone, azelaic acid for uneven tone, and moisturising ingredients such as squalane, glycerin, and rice bran oil. It smooths and brightens the skin.

Trinny Woodall, the founder of Trinny London, is also a fan of acid exfoliants. Her company's new Tiptoe In exfoliant is a milky non-watery serum that's applied with hands straight after cleansing. It uses gluconolactone to exfoliate, but it also includes lactobionic, another polyhydroxy acid with a gentle touch.

For those on a budget, The Ordinary's Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner is a gorgeous product at a brilliant price. It's equally suitable for dry and oily skins. A drenched cotton pad sweeps away dead skin and excess oil gently, without leaving even dry skin parched.

You should try these products maybe four times a week, after cleansing, then increase to daily use if all is calm. It's essential to start slowly and don't overdo it.

'I love most things from US brand Naturium, but its recent launch of Multi Bright Milky Toner is a smash,' says one enthusiast.

When using acid exfoliants, you must remember that sensitive skin doesn't necessarily lack moisture – oilier skins can be just as tetchy when it comes to harsh chemicals. They're more prone to irritation, so it's crucial to be gentle.

As you start using acid exfoliants, be patient and don't overdo it. It may take some time for your skin to adjust. The results can be well worth it, though.

In the world of skincare, it's not often that you find a product that's both effective and gentle. But acid exfoliants might just be the solution you've been looking for. They can make a significant difference in your skin texture and appearance.

  • Acid exfoliants can be gentler and more effective than physical scrubs
  • They work by using alpha or beta hydroxy acids to remove dead skin cells
  • Naturium's Multi Bright Milky Toner is a blend of exfoliating polyhydroxy acid gluconolactone, azelaic acid, and moisturising ingredients
  • Trinny London's Tiptoe In exfoliant uses gluconolactone to exfoliate and includes lactobionic acid for a gentle touch
  • The Ordinary's Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner is a budget-friendly option suitable for dry and oily skins