Alpha-H Liquid Gold & Exfoliants

Exfoliants with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and retinol for radiant skin

Alpha-H has been the Australian pioneer in chemical exfoliation since 1995 and put the concept of glycolic acid in skincare on the global map with the iconic Liquid Gold. The Liquid Gold & Exfoliants collection includes the full range of treatments that made the brand famous: from gentle enzymatic polish to deep-acting overnight peels with retinol.

A dull complexion, uneven skin texture, clogged pores, pigmentation spots, and the first signs of skin aging all arise from the same underlying cause: slowed cell renewal. Regular exfoliation speeds up this natural process, making the skin visibly smoother, brighter, and healthier. Within this collection, you will find the right exfoliant for every skin type and experience level.

Why choose Alpha-H exfoliants?

Alpha-H exfoliants stand out due to their clinically supported formulas with attention to pH balance. Glycolic acid only works optimally in its free, active form and must be delivered in a low pH environment. For example, the iconic Liquid Gold has a pH of 2.8 - 3.0, which keeps almost all of the 5% glycolic acid biologically active. This is a fundamental difference from many other glycolic acid products on the market where the acid is largely buffered and thus loses its effectiveness.

Additionally, Alpha-H offers a complete stepwise build-up within one brand line: from enzymatic exfoliants for the most sensitive skin, to AHA and BHA products for the more experienced user, to triple-action overnight peels with glycolic acid and retinol for professional-level anti-aging treatments. Australian made, cruelty-free, scientifically supported, and the gold standard for over 25 years.

Find your ideal Alpha-H exfoliant

For sensitive or beginner skin: The Illuminating Enzyme Polish is a gentle powder exfoliant with enzymes that works only on the surface — suitable for daily use and safe during pregnancy.

For blemish-prone or oily skin: The Clear Skin Tonic with 2% salicylic acid and niacinamide cleans pores from within, while the Instant Action BHA Blemish Treatment is a targeted spot gel for acute pimples.

For dull or uneven skin: The Micro Super Scrub combines 12% glycolic acid with bamboo extract for weekly wash-off exfoliation. The Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment is the iconic leave-on treatment for structural skin renewal.

For pigmentation spots and dull complexion: The Liquid Gold + Vitamin C builds on the original formula with added stabilized vitamin C and Tasman Pepper, specifically for fading pigmentation spots.

For anti-aging and mature skin: The Beauty Sleep Power Peel is the most intensive overnight treatment, with glycolic acid, 0.5% retinol, and papaya enzyme in one rich cream mask.

How to use Alpha-H exfoliants?

1. In the evening, first thoroughly cleanse the face with a mild cleanser and pat the skin dry
2. For gentle daily exfoliation: use the Illuminating Enzyme Polish as a powder-to-paste treatment on damp skin and rinse thoroughly
3. For pore-targeted treatment: apply the Clear Skin Tonic with a cotton pad over the entire face, neck, and décolleté
4. For intensive weekly exfoliation (2-3 times per week): instead of the tonic, use the Micro Super Scrub on damp skin, massage briefly, and rinse off
5. For leave-on exfoliation (3 evenings per week on alternating days): apply Liquid Gold or Liquid Gold + Vitamin C with a cotton pad and let absorb on its own — no layering needed
6. For deeper anti-aging treatment (2 evenings per week): replace Liquid Gold with the Beauty Sleep Power Peel on completely dry skin and skip the night cream
7. For local blemishes: apply the Instant Action BHA Blemish Treatment as the last step on affected spots — can also be used over makeup during the day
8. Always wear an SPF of at least 30 the next morning, as exfoliants increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Alpha-H exfoliant is suitable if I am new to chemical exfoliation?

Always start with the Illuminating Enzyme Polish or the regular Liquid Gold in a phased build-up. Begin with once a week and gradually increase to 2-3 times per week as your skin tolerates the active ingredients well. Avoid combinations with other exfoliants or retinol in the first weeks.

Can I combine multiple Alpha-H exfoliants in one routine?

Yes, provided you use them on different days or times. An ideal weekly routine could look like this: Liquid Gold on Monday and Thursday evenings, Clear Skin Tonic on Tuesday and Friday evenings, rest day on Wednesday, and Beauty Sleep Power Peel on the weekend. Never combine two leave-on acids on the same evening — this overstimulates the skin barrier.

Which Alpha-H exfoliants are safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

The Illuminating Enzyme Polish, Liquid Gold, and Liquid Gold + Vitamin C are all safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid the Beauty Sleep Power Peel (contains retinol), Clear Skin Tonic, and Instant Action BHA Blemish Treatment (contain salicylic acid) during these periods.

What is the difference between AHA and BHA exfoliants?

AHAs like glycolic acid are water-soluble and work mainly on the skin surface — ideal for dull skin, fine lines, and uneven texture. BHAs like salicylic acid are oil-soluble and penetrate into the pores — ideal for blemish-prone, oily, and congested skin. Both types are present within the Alpha-H line and can complement each other well in a thoughtful routine.

Do I really need to wear SPF every day when using Alpha-H exfoliants?

Absolutely. AHAs and retinol temporarily increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation, which without protection can cause new pigmentation spots and skin damage — the opposite of the intended result. A daily SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days, is an absolute must for anyone who exfoliates regularly.