# ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [ZO Skin Health](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/zo-skin-health)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for sensitive skin; a few products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent exfoliation for your normal skin with sensitivity, as salicylic acid and glycolic acid work to smooth texture and provide mild chemical exfoliation for redness and irritation.
- Urea further supports humectant action, enhancing overall skin comfort and hydration.
- The formula is safe for your skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin): High (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Plantago Major Leaf Extract, Hordeum Distichon Extract Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract

## What the research says

- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Plantain leaf proteins exhibit a wound-healing effect on vertebrate skin both in vitro and in vivo. ([Prikladnaia Biokhimiia I Mikrobiologiia, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22808737/))
- Plantago lanceolata water extract improves skin wound healing in rats by inducing the transition of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, increasing wound contraction rates, and enhancing tensile strength through greater extracellular matrix protein organization compared to untreated wounds. ([The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25244603/))
- Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata extracts incorporated into 3D-printed polysaccharide dressings enhanced fibroblast wound closure to 64% and 52%, respectively, compared to 29% for the control. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41592645/))
- Topical steroid withdrawal is driven by excess mitochondrial NAD+ metabolism that can be successfully targeted using complex I-inhibiting interventions such as metformin and berberine. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40088241/))
- Topical steroid withdrawal presents as a distinct dermatopathology characterized by burning, flushing, thermodysregulation, and elevated mitochondrial NAD+ oxidation, which can be improved by targeting complex I with metformin or berberine. ([MedRxiv, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38712043/))
- Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose hydrogel formulations of berberine chloride-loaded escinosomes increased skin residence time and transdermal permeability while maintaining high safety and biocompatibility without skin irritation. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32682035/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, these pads are widely praised for effectively managing oily, acne-prone, and congested skin by combining salicylic and glycolic acids to exfoliate and clear pores. While many users achieve a brighter, smoother, and more balanced complexion, those with highly sensitive or dry skin should introduce them gradually due to the inclusion of denatured alcohol and fragrance.

- Liked: Convenient to use (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective exfoliation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces oil (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Contains alcohol (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliant PM once a week to help with redness and irritation. Start slowly and only increase frequency if your skin feels happy and comfortable.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner , but always before your moisturizer . This ensures the product absorbs properly into the skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing . Let it absorb for a minute before moving on.
- Since your skin is sensitive , apply the exfoliant on completely dry skin for the best tolerance. This helps prevent any extra stinging or discomfort.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes ZO Complexion Renewal Pads a great fit for sensitive skin?

ZO Complexion Renewal Pads are a great fit for sensitive skin because glycolic acid and salicylic acid smooth texture and provide mild chemical exfoliation while keeping redness and irritation in check. Urea adds hydration to keep your skin comfortable, and the formula avoids harsh ingredients to maintain a safe, gentle experience.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid and glycolic acid work to smooth texture and provide mild chemical exfoliation for redness and irritation, while urea supports overall skin comfort and hydration. The formula is safe for your skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Glycolic acid can be too harsh for sensitive skin, leaving it dry and irritated, so this type of skin needs a gentler exfoliating ingredient and calming plant extracts to keep the skin barrier safe and comfortable.
Sources: [Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35920724/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid may cause irritation on sensitive skin, so it requires careful use and good sun protection to keep skin comfortable. A product for this skin type needs gentle, soothing ingredients and a mild formula that respects the skin barrier.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14617432/)

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This exfoliant treatment goes in your evening routine, starting at once a week to see how your skin responds. It helps smooth texture and calm redness with a safe formula that avoids harsh ingredients.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this exfoliant in your evening routine, but it is best to apply it on different nights than your retinol to avoid irritation. Since both treatments smooth texture and renew skin, alternating them helps keep sensitive skin calm and comfortable.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant treatment once a week in your evening routine, and carefully use it more often only if your sensitive skin tolerates it well and shows good results. This slow buildup helps maintain comfort while glycolic acid and salicylic acid smooth texture and calm redness.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin because its ingredients work to smooth texture and gently clear away dead cells. However, because it contains acids, you may experience some initial mild skin purging as it clears out your pores.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/)

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It contains fragrance (parfum, limonene, linalool, and hexyl cinnamal) and drying alcohol (sd alcohol 40-b).

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$33.98 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/matrixyl-10-ha/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$14.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$27.34 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Sd Alcohol 40-B, Propylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Urea, Glycolic Acid, Pterocarpus Soyauxii Extract Wood, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Hordeum Distichon Extract Hordeum Vulgare Extract, Spiraea Ulmaria Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Butylene Glycol, Parfum, Limonene, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Sodium Hydroxide
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/zo-skin-health/complexion-renewal-pads/for/sensitive-skin