Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) have been used in skincare products for quite some time, but their use is on the rise as research into their many skin benefits increases. It has an incredible array of benefits, including reducing damage, smoothing fine lines, and promoting hydration.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of plant and animal acids used in a variety of skincare products. This includes daily anti-aging products such as serums, toners, and creams, as well as occasional intensive treatments with chemical peels.
What are Alpha Hydroxy Acids?
Products containing AHAs are advertised for a number of purposes. Smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture and tone, unclogs and cleanses pores, and generally improves skin condition. AHAs are sometimes used in cosmetics for other purposes, such as adjusting pH (acidity or alkalinity).
Alpha hydroxy acids are a group of acidic compounds derived primarily from plant sources. They all work as chemical peels on the surface of the skin, but they differ in size and, as a result, in their penetration and potency.
There are seven types of AHAs commonly used in products available throughout the skincare industry.These include:
- Citric Acid (from Citrus)
- Glycolic Acid (from sugar cane)
- Hydroxycaproic acid (from royal jelly)
- Hydroxycaprylic acid (animal source)
- Lactic acid (from lactose or other carbohydrates)
- Malic acid (from fruit)
- Tartaric acid (from grapes)
Benefits of Alpha Hydroxy Acids for Skin
You might be surprised that, unlike some ingredients commonly found in skin care, AHAs occur naturally in nature and are safe to use. The most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) in skin care are glycolic acid and lactic acid. By definition, any acid will exfoliate the skin, but AHAs do more than they should.
AHA promotes skin cell turnover. New skin cells are uniformly pigmented. Theoretically, long-term use of AHAs can reduce skin discoloration by stimulating the regeneration of old, discolored skin cells.
It is a very popular treatment for many reasons, including:
- Anti-aging
- Hydration:
- Sun damage
- complexion
- peeling
- Acne
AHAs in particular tend to have the greatest effect when used for a long period of time. So be patient.
They are surface skins
When skin cells die, they often clump together and stick to the skin. Alpha hydroxy acids help break down the “glue” that holds them together and gently pull them apart. That means more shine, smoother texture, and fewer dark spots. This chemical exfoliation makes AHAs ideal for those with sensitive skin where physical exfoliation (aka manual exfoliation) can cause redness and irritation.
Increased collagen production
AHAs don’t just work on the epidermis. It can also affect the deeper layers of the skin (or dermis). “Studies show that all he AHAs boost collagen formation to some degree, but none do as much as glycolic acid, Also, more collagen means fewer lines and wrinkles.
Helps prevent blemishes
In general, the main benefit of exfoliation is to unclog clogged pores that can lead to breakouts, especially if you have blemish-prone skin. It amplifies this benefit by gently exfoliating the skin without causing irritation that often leads to cracking and further breakouts. If you are prone to breakouts, consistent use of a gentle chemical exfoliator like the Daily AHA Tonic is one of the best steps to add to your skincare routine.
If you are prone to breakouts and scars, you should also consider salicylic acid, another powerful hydroxy acid. Salicylic acid is a type of BHA (beta hydroxy acid) that is particularly useful for tightening blemishes.
Hydrate
Glycolic, malic, and lactic acids are humectants that draw moisture to your skin. Lactic acid, in particular, is the best option for those with dry skin.
Provides Antioxidant Benefits:
Among the AHAs, citric acid in particular stands out for its antioxidant properties, making it a great choice for fighting free radical damage and brightening dark spots.
Reduce damage from visible light
Most of the older ones want to go back and tell their younger self to apply sunscreen or stay out of the sun to protect against sun damage. Thanks to the AHA, It visibly reduces the signs of sun damage you’re already seeing. Using AHAs has been shown to reduce rough skin, discoloration, and general hyperpigmentation, all of which are symptoms of sun damage.
However, it’s important to note that AHAs also make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid increased sun sensitivity by protecting against damage.
Visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Fine lines and wrinkles are one of the most annoying skin problems, and AHAs can help with that too. Glycolic and Lactic Acid boost cell turnover to improve skin firmness and minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
To reap these benefits, incorporate Dermabiotecnica AHA creams into your skincare routine. An exfoliating cleanser containing pineapple glycolic and lactic acid to help reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines for a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Improve your youthful appearance
From reducing fine lines and wrinkles to promoting radiance, it’s no surprise that AHAs can improve the youthful appearance of your skin, given the skin benefits of AHAs listed above. Smoother, less discolored, more hydrated skin that looks visibly younger. All ages are beautiful, but if using an AHA can make you feel more confident in your skin, why not take advantage of all the benefits?
