It’s that time of year when we happily shed our layers and opt for outfits that take up a little less real estate on our bodies, but this shift isn’t always easy and carefree for all. Bulky sweaters and long jeans make it easy to hide skin concerns lurking anywhere but your face, but as summer rounds the corner and we roll down the windows, it’s skin’s time to shine whether we’re ready for it or not. Body acne, keratosis pilaris (KP), razor bumps and more are bound to come out of hibernation and be on full display when slipping into a swimsuit or tank top. Don’t fret because there are solutions, even ones that can improve skin before your vacation next week.
Murad is launching Retexturizing Body Pads ($49 for 45 pads). These little miracle pads can replace serums to make body care that much easier. “It’s an acne treatment, so it smooths texture from acne, pimples and breakouts, and the multifunctional combination of exfoliating and soothing ingredients help improve the appearance of KP and ingrown hairs,” explains Senior Manager of R&D Scientific Affairs at Murad Emily Philen.
Clinical testing over four weeks in people of all skin tones found that some participants saw improvements in just one use—and after three days, many “agreed their texture felt smoother, and the appearance of their acne was reduced,” says Philen. We were amazed at how swiftly we saw changes when using these pads, so we had to know how they made the magic happen.
“Surface smoothing and soothing are actually two benefits that can be achieved quickly with the right approaches,” says Philen. “The solution contains a strategic combination of exfoliating and soothing ingredients, while the pad itself contributes to physical exfoliation.”
The pad is the perfect storm for your stubborn skin texture woes. The formula features azelaic acid to help calm aggravated skin, salicylic and glycolic acid to clear skin and exfoliate dead skin cells and patented amino acid technology to target irritation-causing bacteria.
If you want to double down on your skin’s smoothness, you can also add Murad Clarifying Body Spray ($38) to the mix. It features a familiar formula but with brand new packaging. While the pads are great for intimate or easier-to-reach spots like the bikini area or arms, the 360 degree spray helps you get any area, including the back or bum, so it’s perfect to spritz on right after the gym.