NeoStrata PHA Renewal Pads
The Verdict
PHA Renewal Pads are a sensible entry point into chemical exfoliation for skin that reacts to stronger acids, or a gentle toning step for those already using something more active elsewhere in their routine. They won't deliver the same resurfacing pace as a glycolic-based product, but that's the trade-off that makes them usable on skin other exfoliants would irritate.
NeoStrata PHA Renewal Pads | Gentle Exfoliating Pads | 60 Pads
£44.99
NeoStrata PHA Renewal Pads are pre-soaked toning pads formulated with 4% Gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) with a larger molecule size than glycolic or lactic acid. That slower skin penetration makes this the gentlest exfoliating step in the NeoStrata range, built for sensitive, reactive and dehydrated skin that reacts poorly to stronger acids.
What it is
Each pad is soaked in a 4% Gluconolactone solution — a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) chemically similar to glycolic acid but with a larger molecule. That size difference means it exfoliates more slowly across the skin's surface rather than penetrating deeply, which is why PHAs are generally positioned as the gentlest category of chemical exfoliant. The formula is also humectant, so alongside exfoliation it draws in moisture rather than leaving skin stripped. Green Tea Extract and Cucumber Extract are included to help calm and refresh skin that's already reactive or irritated. The pads come 60 to a tub and are used as a toning step, swept over the face after cleansing.
Key ingredients
| Ingredient | What it's for |
|---|---|
| Gluconolactone (4%) | A polyhydroxy acid (PHA), included to gently exfoliate and help improve the appearance of surface texture without the sting associated with smaller-molecule acids |
| Green Tea Extract | A soothing, antioxidant-rich botanical, included to help calm skin that's prone to redness or reactivity |
| Cucumber Extract | Included alongside Green Tea Extract for its refreshing, hydrating feel on stressed or dehydrated skin |
Who it suits
- Sensitive or reactive skin that can't tolerate glycolic or salicylic acid toners
- Dehydrated skin that's prone to redness or a compromised barrier
- Anyone new to chemical exfoliation who wants a gentle starting point
- Skin recovering from in-clinic treatments, once a practitioner has confirmed it's appropriate to resume actives
Not the pick if you're chasing a stronger resurfacing effect — see our round-up of NeoStrata's glycolic acid (AHA) range, ranked for options with more exfoliating power.
How to use it
Sweep a pad over cleansed, dry skin, avoiding the immediate eye area, then follow with the rest of your routine. NeoStrata positions the pads for use once or twice daily, but anyone introducing chemical exfoliation for the first time should start once daily and build up gradually. As with any exfoliating acid, patch test before regular use and introduce alongside daily SPF, since exfoliation can leave skin more sensitive to UV.
Where it fits in the NeoStrata range
NeoStrata's Bionic technology — used in Bionic Face Serum and Bionic Lotion — combines gluconolactone with glycolic acid for a stronger daily exfoliating effect. PHA Renewal Pads sit a step below that: pure gluconolactone, with no glycolic acid, for skin that can't yet tolerate the Bionic formulas or wants a lighter toning step alongside them. For a full view of how the range is structured by sensitivity level, see our guide to the best NeoStrata products for sensitive, reactive skin, or browse the full line on the NeoStrata brand page.
Our verdict
PHA Renewal Pads are a sensible entry point into chemical exfoliation for skin that reacts to stronger acids, or a gentle toning step for those already using something more active elsewhere in their routine. They won't deliver the same resurfacing pace as a glycolic-based product, but that's the trade-off that makes them usable on skin other exfoliants would irritate.
FAQs
What's the difference between a PHA and an AHA like glycolic acid?
Both are chemical exfoliants, but PHA molecules (like the Gluconolactone in this product) are larger than AHA molecules such as glycolic acid. That means they exfoliate more slowly at the skin's surface rather than penetrating deeply, which is generally why PHAs are considered gentler and more suited to sensitive or reactive skin.
Can I use this every day?
NeoStrata positions the pads for once- or twice-daily use, but if you're new to chemical exfoliation, start with once a day and see how your skin responds before building up frequency.
Is it suitable if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, please contact our team for advice before use.
Can I use this alongside Bionic Face Serum or Bionic Lotion?
Yes — the pads are formulated without glycolic acid, so they can be layered as a toning step alongside Bionic Face Serum or Bionic Lotion. If your skin is new to exfoliating acids, introduce one product at a time rather than starting several together.
Will this replace a stronger exfoliant?
Not if your skin already tolerates glycolic acid well. PHA Renewal Pads are built for gentleness rather than intensity — see our ranking of NeoStrata's glycolic acid range if you want a stronger resurfacing effect.