Why use Alpha Hydroxy Acids?
If you want radiant, healthy-looking skin exfoliation should be part of your skincare regime. But getting rid of dead skin cells is not just about using a gritty scrub to remove dead rough skin. There are far more effective cosmeceutical formulas with AHA’s and BHA’s available that target different skin conditions and skin types.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s) are water-soluble acids derived from sugar cane or fruit acids. Most people are familiar with glycolic acid and lactic acid. These AHA’s work particularly well on the upper layers of the skin (epidermis) and are recommended for dry, discoloured and sun-damaged skin as they help enhance the natural moisturising factors (NMF’s) and luminosity in the skin.
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA’s), also known as salicylic acid, have excellent acne-clearing ability. BHA’s are oil soluble and work deep inside pores to clean and decongest. Skin prone to clogging, congestion, blemishes and enlarged pores benefit from this ingredient.
Benefits of AHA’s and BHA’s
Exfoliation
Our skin naturally sloughs off, but severely slows down due to lack of sun protection and age. We help boost our skin by using exfoliating fruit acids that benefit the skin far more than scrubs. The primary benefit of using AHA’s and BHA’s is for their deep penetrating exfoliating effect. They dissolve the bonds (glue) that keep skin cells bound together and help the dead cells shed more efficiently.
Anti-ageing
Our skin sheds naturally, but with lack of sun protection and age, this process slows down, and a little extra help from these exfoliators reveals glowing skin. AHA’s help reduce the appearance of sun-damaged skin and fine lines by stimulating collagen production which decreases the degradation of the dermal layer ‘mattress’ of the skin and improves and smooths the texture of the upper layer (epidermis)
Enlarged pores and blemishes
Salicylic acid works deep inside the pore and helps reduce oil, bumps, clogging, blemishes and enlarged pores. It is also known for its bacteria-fighting capacity and skin-calming properties.
Also known as
AHA’s and Salicylic Acid (BHA)
PRODUCTS THAT INCLUDE ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS
Who should use Alpha Hydroxy Acids?
When choosing between AHA’s and BHA’s, you want to treat your primary skin condition. If your skin is dry AHA’s (lactic and glycolic acid) are best, and if your issues are more profound in the pores like acne or blackheads you’ll want to use a BHA or a combination of AHA and BHA for better skin penetration and deep cleansing.
How often can you use AHA’s?
Once a week to three times a week. Apply exfoliators after removing makeup and thoroughly cleaning your skin.
Works well with
Alpha Hydroxy Acids work well with all natural skin care
Note: Do not over use exfoliators, as your skin will become sensitised, irritated and dry.
Note: Don’t mix vitamin A and vitamin C with AHA/BHA acids. They are safe to use at opposite times of the day.