Exfoliation 2.0 with gentle lactic acid and anti-aging probiotics / 1.7 oz full size

Marie Veronique Probiotic + Exfoliation Mask was bound to become one of our favorites. We love a good, gentle-yet-effective enzyme exfoliating mask, and the two others we have on our shelves represent necessary ends of the spectrum: Luzern’s Hydra-Enzyme Masque is rich, creamy, and moisturizing, while Ursa Major’s Bright & Easy Flash Mask is gel-based and hydrating in a lighter way. But sometimes it’s good to have a Goldilocks option that sits squarely in the crowd-pleasing middle.

But beyond that, Marie Veronique’s brightening, hydrating, and smoothing formula is, as one might expect, thoughtful and multifaceted. 5% lactic acid loosens dead skin cells that are then eaten up by lemon bioferment enzymes; this combination provides swift but gentle exfoliation that’s suitable even for sensitive, rosacea- or hyperpigmentation-prone skin. At the same time, a pre- and probiotic complex ensures the exfoliation process doesn't disturb the skin's microfloral environment (and therefore barrier function). Additionally, shea butter hydrates and sodium salicylate quells inflammation, a combination that keeps skin calm and supple. Marie calls this Exfoliation 2.0: "This mask does more than exfoliate, it enlists specific microbiota that work to improve skin's health." Well, then.

The immediate-gratification piece we love most is that, after just 5 minutes, skin is noticeably smoother and brighter — and so soft that you might ask yourself if you’re in a dream state when you touch your post-mask skin. Oh, this is no dream. This product is your key to five non-negotiable minutes of weekly me time.

To dig deeper into why the Probiotic + Exfoliation Mask works such magic and why smart exfoliation can be helpful, read our interview about exfoliation with Marie.