If there’s one brand that’s earned the right to call itself the exfoliation authority, it’s Alpha-H. Their Liquid Gold was practically mandatory in any serious skincare cabinet back in the day. Now, they’ve returned to their roots with a fresh take and have recently launched the Alpha-H Illuminating Enzyme Polish.
What is it?
A powder-based enzyme cleanser designed to smooth, cleansed skin.
What Do I Think?
Alpha-H Illuminating Enzyme Polish is a water-activated powder, a bit like Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant (read my review here) and Tatcha The Rice Polish, but more budget-friendly. Add a splash of water, and the ultra-fine powder transforms into a creamy, lather that cleanses and exfoliates in one go. The action has two elements – enzymes loosen the glue that binds dull, dead skin to the surface, while rice powder gives just the gentlest hint of a polish. No scratchy nonsense of scrubs of years past. The result is smooth, matte but not sqeaky clean skin that feels clean, calm, and makeup ready. It’s the kind of product that would make foundation apply like satin.
There’s kaolin clay for a bit of mattifying, colloidal oatmeal to soothe, and native rosella flower for antioxidant support. A soft berry scent elevates it to give you a sensorial experience as you cleanse. You could use it daily, but I think it’s at its best two or three times a week, especially before makeup or nights out.
If your skin flares up at the mere mention of glycolic, but you still want the instant satisfaction of a smoother face, this is a great workaround. You can even leave it on as a quick mask for a minute if you want an extra umph.
Would I recommend?
If like me, you like the instantly satisfying feeling of a scrub but don’t want a harsh scratchy, abrasive scrub, then this is one to try for sure.
Brands Product Description
A multi-use enzyme exfoliant that gently buffs away dullness-causing dead skin cells and decongests pores for a refreshed, illuminated complexion. Skin feels instantly clean and purified, appears refreshed and more luminous after one use, and is noticeably smoother with less visible pores after 7 days.
Key Ingredients
- Multi-Enzyme Complex – A dual-action Protease + Lipase Enzyme blend that loosens and lifts away surface dead skin cells.
- Kaolin Clay – A natural white clay that absorbs excess oil, purifies and decongests pores.
- Rice Powder – An ultra-fine powder that gently polishes the skins surface, offering the softest feeling of physical exfoliation.
- Colloidal Oatmeal – Calms, soothes, protects the skin barrier and minimises the appearance of redness.
- Native Rosella Flower – This antioxidant-rich botanical helps protect skin against damage caused by environmental stressors.
How I Use It
I use this 2-3 times a week during the cleansing stage of my routine.
Would I Repurchase/Buy?
Yes!
How Much?
£36.99 for 50g.
