An Interview with Lana Sayah, Co-Founder of Lana Banana Skincare

Loved by beauty experts and skin professionals alike, AHA cleansers are a game-changer for anyone who wants that naturally radiant, just-had-a-facial glow without the actual facial. They’re a proven way to exfoliate, brighten, and deeply cleanse, all while respecting your skin barrier

We caught up with Lana Sayah, co-founder of Australian skincare brand Lana Banana, to talk all things AHAs, why they’re a must-have in any simple skincare routine, and how the Lana Banana Exfoliating Cleanser is making waves for young, breakout-prone and texture-troubled skin.

Lana, let’s start from the top, what even is an AHA cleanser?

AHAs stand for Alpha Hydroxy Acids, and they’re one of skincare’s best-kept secrets, though, not for long. An AHA cleanser uses these gentle acids (think lactic acid or glycolic acid) to chemically exfoliate the skin as you cleanse. That means no scrubbing, no microbeads, and no drama.

Instead of physically rubbing off dead skin cells, AHAs dissolve the bonds between them, so they just rinse away. You get smoother, brighter, clearer skin without the irritation that often comes with harsh physical exfoliators.

So how is an AHA cleanser different from a regular cleanser?

Think of your regular cleanser like a gentle rinse, it removes surface stuff like makeup, oil and dirt. But an AHA cleanser goes deeper. It not only cleans your skin but also helps shed dead skin cells, unclog pores, and speed up skin cell turnover. That’s how you get that glowy, glass-skin vibe everyone’s chasing.

With the Lana Banana Exfoliating Cleanser, we wanted to make exfoliation feel easy. No need for extra exfoliating pads or masks, just one clever product that does more every time you wash your face.

What skin types should use AHA cleansers?

I know acids sound intense, but they’re actually perfect for most skin types, especially if you’re dealing with:
- Breakouts or congestion
- Textured skin
- Dullness or uneven skin tone
- Post-acne marks or pigmentation

They’re especially good for young skin that’s changing, hormonal, or feeling overwhelmed by too many products. AHAs help clear the clutter, literally and metaphorically.

Tell us more about the Lana Banana Exfoliating Cleanser. What makes it different?

This is one of my favorite products in the range. We used a blend of gentle AHAs that resurface without irritating. It’s soap-free and sulfate-free, so you’re not stripping your skin barrier. We also included hydrating and calming ingredients, so it’s never harsh.

It’s that balance between performance and comfort that makes it such a win. You can use it a few times a week or daily, depending on your skin, and it helps keep things smooth, balanced, and breakout-free.

Some people are nervous about using acids on their skin, what would you say to them?

Totally get it. I think “acid” just sounds scary. But the acids we use, like lactic acid and glycolic acid, are super gentle and actually hydrating, not drying. When used in the right concentration (like in a cleanser), they’re safe, effective, and ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Plus, using AHAs in a cleanser format means they’re rinsed off, so your skin gets the benefits without extended exposure. It's a great way to dip your toes into actives if you're just starting out.

How do you use it in your routine?

Cleanse with it in the evening, it’s great at removing the day. I recommend using it 2–4 times a week to start, and you can work up from there. Follow with a hydrating serum and moisturizer, and always wear SPF the next day. AHAs make your skin more sun-sensitive, so SPF is a non-negotiable. We have a great Protective Moisturizer which I would recommend that includes SPF.

Why are AHA cleansers such a must for Gen Z?

Because they’re low effort, high reward. You don’t need 12 products or an extensive knowledge of skincare, just smart formulas that multitask. An AHA cleanser is your exfoliator, texture-refiner, glow-giver and breakout-preventer, all in one. And that’s the energy we’re bringing at Lana Banana: smart, skin-first skincare without the stress.

Last question, what would you say to someone who’s just getting started with skincare?

Start small, but start smart. A good cleanser, a nourishing serum, a moisturizer preferably with SPF and you’re done. The Lana Banana Exfoliating Cleanser is the perfect intro to active skincare, because it’s effective, gentle, and easy to use.

Your skin doesn’t need 100 steps. It just needs support, not overload. Trust the process, stay consistent, and your skin will reward you.

AHA Cleanser Benefits at a Glance:

- Gently exfoliates without irritation
- Unclogs pores and clears congestion
- Brightens skin and fades pigmentation
- Speeds up cell turnover
- Supports smoother, more even skin texture

Ready to glow without the guesswork?
Smart skincare starts here.