If you’re on a quest for younger-looking, smoother, and more even-toned skin, you may have heard of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). AHAs are among the most active ingredients in serums, toners and creams. AHA are sugar cane or milk- derived but can also be produced in laboratory. Hydrosoluble AHAs exfoliate our skin by removing the superficial top layer. Doing so reveals a fresher, refined skin that appears much smoother, is more hydrated, and, over time, becomes visibly firmer.
Different Alpha Hydroxy Acids used in Skincare industry
- Lactic Acid (from lactose or other carbohydrates) : improves wrinkles and pore appearance, and also increases skin moisture. It is similar to glycolic acid. Lactic acid, when combined with other products produce better results.
- Glycolic Acid (from sugar cane) : Enhances overall skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and photoaging. It is one of the most used AHA because, at the same time, it increases collagen and hyaluronic acid production. The molecule size is small so they can penetrate deeply into the skin producing a quick exfoliation. Lower concentration (10-15%) treats acne and psoriasis; lower concentrations (15-70%) for treating wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
- Mandelic Acid (bitter almonds) : treat pigmentation caused by acne, diminish pore appearance, and brighten the skin. It is gentle than glycolic because it cannot penetrate deeply in the skin due to bigger size. Mandelic acid is a go-to anti-ageing ingredient in the world of skincare.
- Tartaric Acid (from grapes): improves fine lines and signs of photoaging like pigmentation. This ingredient is added to antiaging and anti-acne products. Concentration ranges from 1-10%.
- Malic Acid (from fruits especially apples): works on overall skin texture and moisture. Skin lesions due to acne, blackheads are conditions that can be treated with this product. Malic acid also reduce thickness of Stratum corneum (superficial layer of the epidermis), reducing pigmentation and acne.
Out of all the AHAs available, glycolic and lactic acids are the most promising and well researched. These two AHAs are also less likely to cause irritation.
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