Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of acids that, like other exfoliants, gently remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, promoting a smoother, brighter complexion. AHAs are great for reducing fine lines, evening skin tone, shrinking pores, and hydrating the skin.
AHAs date back all the way to ancient Egypt, when sour milk was used to improve the skin's appearance. Although AHAs can be found in foods like fruit, sugar cane, and milk, the AHAs in skin care products today are usually synthetically derived. The most common AHAs in skin care products include lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, citric acid, and tartaric acid.
You’re sooo dead to me!
This message goes out to the dead skin cells. You are so not invited to the party. Luckily, AHAs help to exfoliate the skin by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, making it easier to shed them and reveal fresher skin underneath. If you’re trying to find the fountain of youth, AHAs have your back.
I’ll take smooth skin, please
AHAs can remove dead or flaky skin without being too irritating. This makes them great for alleviating:
- Dry skin
- Blemishes
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Skin discoloration
- Keratosis Pilaris
- Rough texture
If you have sensitive skin, AHA might be the exfoliant for you
Studies have found that AHAs are better tolerated than retinoids. Also, since AHAs are water soluble, they are less likely to go as deep in the skin’s layers as BHAs.
How to get started with AHAs
- Find the right AHA for you
- The level of exfoliation will depend on the concentration and pH of the AHA, so be sure to do some digging to find the best AHA for you! For instance, research has shown that AHA exfoliants with 5-10% glycolic acid or lactic acid and a pH between 3 and 4 are ideal for anti-aging, non-irritating exfoliation.
- Always use protection.
- We mean sunscreen, ofc. We care about you, bestie, and will always remind you to use sun protection. AHAs increase the skin’s UV sensitivity. So, don’t forget to wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
Check out other products we love containing AHAs (which happen to be from fellow AAPI-founded brands!)
innisfree Super Volcanic AHA Pore Clearing Clay Mask
Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow AHA Night Treatment
Are you ready to sip from the fountain of youth?
XO,
BiotechBeauty
