Exfol-A

Vivant Skincare Exfol-A™

Level II Advanced Retinoid & Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Serum

The Vivant Skincare Exfol-A™ is an intensive Level II advanced retinoid serum engineered to target stubborn post-acne dark marks (PIH), recalcitrant pore congestion, rough epidermal texture, and visible signs of photoaging. Combining Vivant’s proprietary REt (RP)™ retinoid technology (Retinyl Propionate) with high-octane Glycolic Acid, Kojic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), this multi-corrective treatment accelerates cellular renewal while flushing trapped follicular debris.

Designed specifically for normal, combination, and oily skin types already acclimated to introductory Vitamin A serums (such as Vivant Derm-A-Gel® or Derm-A-Renew), Exfol-A™ delivers dual-phase chemical resurfacing alongside tyrosinase inhibition. It provides a clinical-grade solution for persistent acne, enlarged pores, melasma, and fine lines—including body congestion on the back and menopausal skin facing hormonal jawline breakouts and dullness.

Clinical Note: This is a Level II Active Intensive retinoid treatment. Skin must be fully acclimated to Level I retinoids before stepping up to this formula.

Key Benefits

  • Level II Retinoid Renewal: Features Retinyl Propionate to promote rapid cellular turnover, refine rough skin texture, and smooth fine lines.

  • Intensive AHA Resurfacing: Synergizes Glycolic and Lactic acids to dissolve dead cell bonds, shed dull surface buildup, and refine pore size.

  • Fades Persistent Dark Spots: Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, and Lactic Acid interrupt melanin synthesis to visibly diminish post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and sun spots.

  • Clears Deep Pore Congestion: Unclogs hair follicles, balances excess sebum output, and eliminates micro-comedones to clear active breakouts.

  • Enhances Skin Radiance: Removes oxidized surface debris to uncover a brighter, smoother, and more uniform complexion.

  • Face & Body Versatility: Highly effective for facial resurfacing as well as stubborn, textured acne on the back and shoulders.

Targeted Skin Types & Concerns

  • Best For: Normal, Combination, Oily, and Resilient skin types already acclimated to Vitamin A treatments.

  • Skin Concerns: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), stubborn dark spots, post-acne marks, acne-prone skin, enlarged congested pores, rough texture, fine lines, dullness, and menopausal breakouts.

  • Not Ideal For: Retinoid beginners, very dry or highly reactive skin, active rosacea flare-ups, compromised skin barriers, or individuals who are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Sensory Profile

  • What You'll See: Visibly clearer, tighter, and polished skin with significantly reduced blemish congestion, refined pores, and faded dark spots over time.

  • What You'll Feel: An ultra-lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid fluid; a brief, temporary tingling or warming sensation may occur upon application as active acids set in.

Key Active Ingredients & Science

  • REt (RP)™ Retinoid (Retinyl Propionate): Vivant’s proprietary Vitamin A ester that converts efficiently within skin cells to promote cell renewal and collagen density with reduced surface stress.

  • Glycolic Acid: A small-molecular AHA that penetrates deeply to dissolve intercellular adhesive bonds, smooth texture, and stimulate epidermal renewal.

  • Kojic Acid: A potent chelation agent that suppresses tyrosinase activity to prevent and fade hyperpigmentation.

  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Calms active inflammation, supports barrier lipid synthesis, regulates oil production, and blocks melanosome transfer to surface keratinocytes.

  • Lactic Acid: A gentler AHA that provides surface exfoliation while binding water into the stratum corneum.

  • Urea, Sodium PCA & Sodium Lactate: Biomimetic Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) components that attract moisture to protect skin balance during active resurfacing.

How to Use

PM | Corrective Serum Step (Step 3: Treatment)

Shake well before use. After cleansing and toning, apply a thin, even layer over clean, dry skin on the face, neck, or back, avoiding the delicate eye contour, eyelids, lips, and nostrils. Allow the serum to absorb completely for 1 to 2 minutes before following with your evening moisturizer.

Recommended Acclimation Protocol:

  • Pre-Requisite: Establish complete skin tolerance using Vivant Derm-A-Gel® or Derm-A-Renew for 8 to 12 weeks prior to stepping up to Level II.

  • Weeks 1–2: Apply every other evening to allow skin to adjust to Glycolic Acid and Level II Retinyl Propionate.

  • Week 3+: Gradually increase to nightly application as tolerated by your skin barrier.

  • Step-Up Protocol: Once skin comfortably uses Exfol-A™ nightly for several months, resilient skin types can transition to Level III (Exfol-A™ Forté) under clinical guidance.

AM: Daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher (such as Mesoprotech Melan 130 or Mineral Matt Fluid) is strictly required. For clients managing melasma or PIH, broad-spectrum tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides provides vital visible-light protection.

Amare Clinical Tip: Exfol-A™ is significantly more exfoliating than Level I formulas because it combines Retinyl Propionate with Glycolic Acid. In skin of color (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), visible peeling or excessive dryness should never be the goal—over-exfoliation can induce thermal trauma and trigger rebound post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Step up slowly, support the barrier with a rich moisturizer like Vivant Allantoin Sedating & Hydrating Lotion, and avoid combining Exfol-A™ with other active acid toners on the same night.

Important to Know

  • Level II Active Intensive Formula: Formulated strictly for skin already acclimated to Vitamin A.

  • Contains SD Alcohol: Includes denatured alcohol for rapid drying and enhanced active penetration; monitor skin for signs of tightness or dryness.

  • Pregnancy Warning: Do not use during pregnancy or when planning pregnancy. Consult your physician prior to use if breastfeeding.

  • Acclimation Reactions: Mild tingling, temporary tightness, light flaking, or superficial peeling may occur during initial weeks.

  • Daily Photoprotection Essential: Retinoids and AHAs increase solar sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ application is mandatory.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my skin is ready to step up to Vivant Exfol-A™?

You are ready to transition to Exfol-A™ if you have used a Level I retinoid (such as Vivant Derm-A-Gel® or Derm-A-Renew) every night for at least 8 to 12 weeks without experiencing stinging, redness, flaking, or barrier irritation.

Can Vivant Exfol-A™ be used for back acne and dark marks?

Yes. The combination of Retinyl Propionate and Glycolic Acid makes Exfol-A™ highly effective for clearing stubborn follicular plugs, active breakouts, and post-acne dark marks on thicker skin zones like the back and chest.

Is Vivant Exfol-A™ suitable for menopausal skin experiencing breakouts and aging?

Yes, provided the skin is resilient and acclimated to Level I retinoids. Menopausal skin facing sudden jawline acne alongside fine lines and dullness benefits from the accelerated turnover of Glycolic Acid and Retinyl Propionate, though barrier moisture must be maintained with a lipid-replenishing cream.

Why Buy Vivant Skincare From Amare Aesthetics?

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Advanced Retinoid Renewal: Retinyl propionate supports skin renewal to improve the appearance of rough texture and early signs of aging.

Intensive AHA Exfoliation: Glycolic and lactic acids help remove accumulated surface skin cells for a smoother, more refined complexion.

Visibly Improves Dark Spots: Kojic acid and niacinamide help improve the appearance of post-acne marks and uneven pigmentation.

Supports Acne-Prone Skin: Helps improve visible congestion, blemish-related imperfections, and rough skin texture.

Refines the Appearance of Pores: Promotes smoother-looking skin and reduces the appearance of enlarged pores.

Softens Fine Lines: Supports visible improvements in fine lines and uneven texture associated with photoaging.

Enhances Skin Radiance: Helps improve dullness and reveal a brighter, more uniform-looking complexion.

Suitable for Face and Back: May be incorporated into corrective regimens for selected acne-prone or textured areas.

PM | Corrective Serum Step (Step 3: Treatment)

Shake well before use. After cleansing and toning, apply a thin, even layer over clean, dry skin on the face, neck, or back, avoiding the delicate eye contour, eyelids, lips, and nostrils. Allow the serum to absorb completely for 1 to 2 minutes before following with your evening moisturizer.

Recommended Acclimation Protocol:

Pre-Requisite: Establish complete skin tolerance using Vivant Derm-A-Gel® or Derm-A-Renew for 8 to 12 weeks prior to stepping up to Level II.

Weeks 1–2: Apply every other evening to allow skin to adjust to Glycolic Acid and Level II Retinyl Propionate.

Week 3+: Gradually increase to nightly application as tolerated by your skin barrier.

Step-Up Protocol: Once skin comfortably uses Exfol-A™ nightly for several months, resilient skin types can transition to Level III (Exfol-A™ Forté) under clinical guidance.

AM: Daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher (such as Mesoprotech Melan 130 or Mineral Matt Fluid) is strictly required. For clients managing melasma or PIH, broad-spectrum tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides provides vital visible-light protection.

Amare Clinical Tip: Exfol-A™ is significantly more exfoliating than Level I formulas because it combines Retinyl Propionate with Glycolic Acid. In skin of color (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), visible peeling or excessive dryness should never be the goal—over-exfoliation can induce thermal trauma and trigger rebound post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Step up slowly, support the barrier with a rich moisturizer like Vivant Allantoin Sedating & Hydrating Lotion, and avoid combining Exfol-A™ with other active acid toners on the same night.

REt (RP)™ Retinoid (Retinyl Propionate): Vivant's proprietary vitamin A technology designed to support skin renewal and improve the appearance of fine lines, rough texture, and uneven skin tone. Retinyl propionate is a cosmetic retinoid ester and differs from prescription tretinoin.

Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that promotes surface exfoliation, helping refine uneven texture, dullness, and the appearance of visible pores.

Kojic Acid: A pigment-targeting ingredient that helps improve the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone by interfering with pathways involved in melanin production.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps support skin barrier function, improve uneven pigmentation, and maintain a smoother, more balanced-looking complexion.

Lactic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid that provides additional surface exfoliation and humectant benefits.

Urea: A moisture-binding ingredient that helps soften rough skin and maintain hydration.

Sodium PCA & Sodium Lactate: Components associated with the skin's natural moisturizing factor that help attract and retain moisture.

Alcohol Denat., Propylene Glycol, Glycolic Acid, Retinyl Propionate, Kojic Acid, BHT, Hydroxypropylcellulose, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, Glycine, Fructose, Urea, Niacinamide, Inositol, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid