AHA acids (alpha hydroxy acids) are a group of natural fruit-derived acids — glycolic, lactic, malic, citric and mandelic — found in sugar cane, milk, apples, citrus fruits and bitter almonds. Because they are water-soluble, they act on the surface of the epidermis, where they loosen the bonds between dead corneocytes and initiate the process of chemical exfoliation. They stimulate collagen synthesis, accelerate cell renewal and improve the penetration of other active ingredients. They effectively smooth wrinkles, reduce discolouration, even out skin tone and give the skin a fresh, youthful look. Ideal for caring for dull, mature and photoaged skin — they absolutely require an SPF cream in the morning.
EXFOLIATION
Clinical studies
Glycolic 8% for 22 weeks: 37% reduction in fine lines and texture refinement (Stiller et al., 1996, n=74).
Mechanism of action
Hydrolysis of the desmosomal bonds between corneocytes by lowering pH. They activate fibroblasts to synthesise new collagen and GAGs (hyaluronic acid). They require SPF in the morning.
Concentration
5-10% (OTC), up to 70% (in-office treatments)
Glycolic acid is the smallest and most active of the AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) group — thanks to its low molecular weight, it penetrates deep into the layers of the epidermis. Derived from sugar cane, it works by loosening the bonds between dead corneocytes, initiating the process of chemical exfoliation. It stimulates the synthesis of new collagen and accelerates cell renewal, thereby smoothing wrinkles, reducing hyperpigmentation, and improving skin texture. It effectively unclogs pores, reducing imperfections and blackheads, which is why it works well in the care of oily, problematic skin and skin with signs of photoaging. It requires the use of an SPF cream — it increases the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation.
Exfoliation
Clinical studies
10% glycolic acid over 12 weeks: a 30% reduction in wrinkles and a 27% increase in epidermal thickness (Bernstein et al., 2001).
Mechanism of action
Hydrolysis of desmosomal bonds between corneocytes by lowering pH. Stimulation of collagen synthesis through fibroblast activation.
Concentration
0.5-2% (OTC), up to 30% (professional peel)
Salicylic acid is an organic BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) derived from white willow bark, one of the best-studied ingredients in anti-acne dermatology. Unlike AHA acids, it is oil-soluble, so it penetrates oily pores and clears them from within, dissolving sebum, blackheads and excess dead skin cells. It also acts keratolytically, anti-inflammatorily and antibacterially, inhibiting the growth of Cutibacterium acnes bacteria responsible for acne lesions. It effectively reduces breakouts, papules, open and closed comedones, evens out skin tone and minimises the appearance of pores. It is the gold standard in skincare for oily, problematic and acne-prone teenage skin — featured in Christina's signature Comodex line.
ANTI-ACNE
Clinical studies
2% salicylic acid: 47% reduction in acne lesions and 38% reduction in comedones over 12 weeks (Zheng & Yin, 2015, n=46).
Mechanism of action
This lipophilic BHA penetrates sebum and pores, dissolving keratin plugs. It inhibits 5-lipoxygenase and COX-2, reducing inflammation. It acts bacteriostatically against C. acnes.
Magnolia extract is obtained from the bark of the magnolia tree (Magnolia officinalis) — a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. It contains unique lignans: magnolol and honokiol, which have strong anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant action. They inhibit the activity of key inflammatory mediators (NF-kB, COX-2), thereby effectively reducing redness, itching and symptoms of skin hypersensitivity. It has been clinically proven that the use of magnolia extract eases the symptoms of rosacea, atopic dermatitis and allergic reactions. An ingredient particularly recommended in soothing preparations for sensitive, reactive skin and in care after dermatological treatments.
Soothing
Clinical studies
1% honokiol: 78% inhibition of NF-kB, 41% reduction in erythematous redness over 4 weeks (Chen et al., 2017, n=24).
Mechanism of action
Magnolol and honokiol — neolignans — inhibit the key transcription factors NF-kB and AP-1, reducing the expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and COX-2. Antioxidants stronger than vitamin E.
Boosters — optional routine upgrades: exfoliation 1–2× a week, toner daily after cleansing, mask 1× a week, eye cream when you want to focus on the eye area.
Świetny dla skóry problematycznej i trądzikowej. To pozycja obowiązkowa. Tak, po użyciu pojawia się lekkie zaczerwienienie, ale znika po około 20 minutach. Dodaj łagodzącą maskę, a efekt jest niesamowity!
I
Irena
Peeling ziołowy Forte (krok 4B)
Niesamowity peeling o fantastycznym działaniu
O
Oksana
Peeling ziołowy Forte (krok 4B)
To dziwne, ale kiedy miałam taki peeling robiony w salonie przez kosmetyczkę, nie piekło mnie to tak bardzo. Mam wrażliwą skórę. Bądź ostrożna przy wyborze.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
All you need to know before buying and while using
When will I see the first results?
The first results (hydration, smoothing, a soothing effect) are visible within the first few days of use. Full corrective results (even skin tone, reduced wrinkles, regeneration) appear after 4–6 weeks of consistent care — in line with the skin's natural renewal cycle. You'll get the best results by following the complete line routine twice a day.
Results
How can I check whether this product suits my skin type?
Check the Recommendations field in the Product details section — you'll find precise guidance on skin type there. If you're unsure, take advantage of our free online skincare consultation — our expert will select products tailored to your skin. You can also complete our interactive skincare quiz.
How to use
Can I combine this product with other Christina lines?
Yes. All Christina lines are designed for compatibility. You'll get the best results by following a complete routine from a single line — the products mutually reinforce each other's effects. You can also combine products from different lines (e.g. a Forever Young serum + a Muse cream) — there are no contraindications.
How to use
What is the delivery time?
Orders placed on business days before 11:30 are shipped the same day — you'll receive your parcel the next business day. Free delivery for orders over PLN 200. Standard processing time: 24–48 business hours.
Shipping
Can I return a product?
You have 14 days to return a purchased product from the moment of delivery, in accordance with Polish consumer law. The product must be unopened and in its original packaging. More information in our return policy.
Returns
Are Christina products tested on animals?
No. Christina Cosmetics is a cruelty-free brand — we do not test ingredients or finished products on animals. We verify the safety of our formulas in clinical trials with volunteers under dermatological supervision.
Safety
Are the products safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Most Christina products are safe during pregnancy and lactation — look for the 'Pregnancy safe' badge on the product page. Products containing retinol, higher concentrations of AHA/BHA acids, or strong actives are not recommended during pregnancy. If in doubt, consult a dermatologist or our skincare specialist.
Safety
How should I store the product after opening?
Store Christina products at room temperature (15–25°C), away from direct sunlight and heat sources. After opening, the product retains its full efficacy for the period marked with the PAO symbol (e.g. 12M = 12 months) on the packaging. Products with active vitamins (C, retinol) should be stored away from light.
How to use
How should I apply Christina cosmetics correctly?
Apply Christina cosmetics in order from the lightest to the richest texture: toner, serum, cream, oil. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin using circular motions from the center of the face outward. A full routine takes 3–5 minutes, twice a day.
How to use
What is Christina Cosmetics?
Christina Cosmetics is an Israeli brand of professional skincare cosmetics with a 40-year history. It specializes in advanced formulas that combine natural ingredients with the achievements of biotechnology. The products are available in beauty salons and clinics worldwide.
About the brand
How much does delivery of Christina cosmetics cost?
Delivery of Christina cosmetics is free for orders over PLN 200. For smaller orders, the standard delivery cost is PLN 12 by InPost courier and PLN 9 to a parcel locker. We ship within 24 business hours.
Shipping
Is Christina a natural cosmetics brand?
Yes, Christina Cosmetics uses natural plant extracts as the base of its formulas, combining them with active biotechnological ingredients. The BioPhyto, Forever Young, and Muse lines contain plant oils, herbal extracts, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins. All products are cruelty-free, paraben-free, and SLS-free.
Ingredients
Which Christina line is right for my skin?
Choose a line according to your skin type: BioPhyto for sensitive skin, Forever Young for mature skin with signs of aging, Muse for normal and combination skin, Rose de Mer for peeling, Comodex for acne-prone skin. Take our online skincare quiz to get a tailored recommendation.
Choosing
Where can I buy original Christina cosmetics in Poland?
You can buy original Christina cosmetics in Poland on the official website christinacosmetics.pl. We are the authorized distributor of the Christina brand for the Polish market. We guarantee full authenticity, product certificates, and the freshest batches from the factory in Israel.
