Exfol-A-Forte

Vivant Skincare Exfol-A Forté™

Level III Advanced Retinoid, Multi-AHA & BHA Resurfacing Serum

The Vivant Skincare Exfol-A Forté™ is an intensive Level III advanced retinoid and multi-acid resurfacing serum engineered to target resistant acne, stubborn pore congestion, recalcitrant hyperpigmentation (PIH), and visible signs of photoaging. Combining Vivant’s proprietary REt (RP)™ retinoid technology (Retinyl Propionate) with a high-potency acid complex—Glycolic, Salicylic, Lactic, and Citric Acids—this maximum-strength formula accelerates cellular turnover while flushing trapped follicular lipids and keratin plugs.

Designed specifically for very oily, thick, resilient, and acne-prone skin types already fully acclimated to Level II Vitamin A formulas (such as Vivant Exfol-A™), Exfol-A Forté™ synergizes lipophilic BHA pore clearance with multi-depth AHA exfoliation and tyrosinase-inhibiting Kojic Acid and Niacinamide. It delivers a clinical-grade solution for persistent blackheads, enlarged pores, melasma, and fine lines—including stubborn body congestion on the back and shoulders.

Clinical Note: Classified by Vivant as a Level III Active Intensive treatment. Skin MUST be completely acclimated to Exfol-A™ (Level II) before introducing this formula.

Key Benefits

  • Level III Maximum Retinoid Renewal: Features high-potency Retinyl Propionate to promote rapid epidermal renewal, refine rough texture, and boost structural density.
  • Multi-Depth Acid Resurfacing: Synergizes Glycolic, Lactic, and Citric Acids (AHAs) to dissolve surface intercellular adhesive bonds and shed dull, dead cell buildup.
  • Deep Pore & BHA Clearance: Oil-soluble Salicylic Acid (BHA) penetrates deep into follicular ducts to dissolve stubborn sebum plugs, blackheads, and micro-comedones.
  • Fades Resistant Dark Spots: Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, and Lactic Acid interrupt melanin synthesis to visibly diminish post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and sun spots.
  • Refines Pores & Texture: Visibly tightens the appearance of enlarged pores, smooths surface irregularities, and restores vibrancy.
  • Face & Body Application: Highly effective for facial resurfacing as well as resistant, textured acne and dark marks on the back and shoulders.

Targeted Skin Types & Concerns

  • Best For: Very Oily, Oily, Thick, Resilient, and Combination skin types already acclimated to advanced Level II retinoids.
  • Skin Concerns: Persistent pore congestion, recalcitrant blackheads, recurring inflammatory breakouts, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), stubborn dark spots, rough texture, fine lines, dullness, and excessive sebum output.
  • Not Ideal For: Retinoid beginners, sensitive or reactive skin, active rosacea, compromised skin barriers, or individuals who are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Sensory Profile

  • What You'll See: A dramatically clearer, smoother, and polished skin surface with reduced breakout frequency, tighter-looking pores, and faded dark marks over time.
  • What You'll Feel: A lightweight, fast-absorbing liquid serum; a temporary tingling, warming, or active 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 turnover and collagen density with reduced surface stress.
  • Glycolic Acid: A small-molecular AHA that penetrates deeply to dissolve dead cell bonds and stimulate surface renewal.
  • Salicylic Acid (BHA): A lipophilic hydroxy acid that penetrates sebum-filled pores to exfoliate within the follicle lining and clear micro-comedones.
  • 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 cells.
  • Citric & Lactic Acids: Additional AHAs that provide multi-depth surface exfoliation and moisture-binding support.
  • 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 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 Exfol-A™ (Level II) for at least 8 to 12 weeks prior to stepping up to Level III.
  • Weeks 1–2: Apply every other evening to allow skin to adjust to the multi-acid combination and Level III Retinyl Propionate.
  • Week 3+: Gradually increase toward nightly application as tolerated by your skin barrier.
  • If Irritation Occurs: Pause application until skin recovers, then resume at a lower frequency.

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 Forté™ is one of the most active resurfacing serums in the Vivant lineup. In skin of color (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), aggressive exfoliation or visible peeling should never be the goal—excessive inflammation can induce thermal stress 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 Forté™ with other active acid toners or scrubs on the same night.

Important to Know

  • Level III Active Intensive Formula: Formulated strictly for skin already acclimated to Level II retinoids.
  • Contains Denatured Alcohol: Included for rapid penetration and maximum oil clearance; monitor skin for signs of excessive dryness or tightness.
  • Pregnancy Warning: Do not use during pregnancy or when planning pregnancy. Consult your physician prior to use if breastfeeding.
  • Acclimation Reactions: Mild tingling, temporary dryness, light flaking, or superficial peeling may occur during initial weeks.
  • Daily Photoprotection Essential: Retinoids and hydroxy acids increase solar sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ application is mandatory.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my skin is ready for Vivant Exfol-A Forté™?

You are ready to step up to Exfol-A Forté™ only if you have successfully used Vivant Exfol-A™ (Level II) nightly for at least 8 to 12 weeks without experiencing stinging, redness, flaking, or barrier disruption.

What makes Exfol-A Forté™ different from Exfol-A™?

While Exfol-A™ contains Retinyl Propionate, Glycolic Acid, and Lactic Acid, Exfol-A Forté™ adds lipophilic Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Citric Acid in an advanced alcohol vehicle. This makes Exfol-A Forté™ significantly more effective for oily, heavily congested, and resistant skin types with stubborn blackheads.

Can Vivant Exfol-A Forté™ be used for back acne and deep chest congestion?

Yes. The multi-acid and retinoid combination makes Exfol-A Forté™ ideal for clearing stubborn follicular plugs, active breakouts, and post-acne dark marks on thicker skin zones like the back and shoulders.

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Intensive Skin Renewal: Retinyl propionate supports skin renewal to improve rough texture and visible signs of photoaging.

Multi-Acid Exfoliation: Glycolic, lactic, and citric acids help remove accumulated surface skin cells for a smoother-looking complexion.

Targets Congested Pores: Salicylic acid, an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (BHA), helps exfoliate within oily pores and improve the appearance of congestion.

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

Refines Skin Texture: Helps improve roughness, dullness, and the appearance of enlarged pores.

Supports Acne-Prone Skin: Addresses surface buildup and pore congestion associated with blemish-prone complexions.

Softens Fine Lines: Promotes a smoother appearance in skin showing early signs of photoaging.

Enhances Radiance: Helps reveal a brighter, more uniform-looking skin tone.

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 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 Exfol-A™ (Level II) for at least 8 to 12 weeks prior to stepping up to Level III.

Weeks 1–2: Apply every other evening to allow skin to adjust to the multi-acid combination and Level III Retinyl Propionate.

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

If Irritation Occurs: Pause application until skin recovers, then resume at a lower frequency.

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 Forté™ is one of the most active resurfacing serums in the Vivant lineup. In skin of color (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), aggressive exfoliation or visible peeling should never be the goal—excessive inflammation can induce thermal stress 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 Forté™ with other active acid toners or scrubs on the same night.

REt (RP)™ Retinoid (Retinyl Propionate): Vivant's proprietary vitamin A technology supports skin renewal and helps improve the appearance of rough texture, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Retinyl propionate is a cosmetic retinoid ester and is not equivalent to prescription tretinoin.

Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates accumulated surface skin cells to improve dullness, rough texture, and uneven tone.

Salicylic Acid: An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps exfoliate within pores, making it particularly useful for oily, congested, and blackhead-prone skin.

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.

Citric Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid that contributes to the formula's exfoliating system and helps refine the appearance of uneven texture.

Lactic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid that supports surface exfoliation while also providing humectant benefits.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps support skin barrier function and improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation.

Urea, Sodium PCA & Sodium Lactate: Moisture-binding ingredients that help maintain skin suppleness alongside the formula's intensive exfoliating components.

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