Acids: AHA/BHA – The Key to Happy Skin

As we age our skin cell cycle slows down. This causes the dead skin cells to build up creating a dull complexion.

There are many types of acids that can play a part in our skin care regimen.

AHA and BHA work to loosen the fluid that binds the cells to the top layers of skin allowing the dead ones to fall away.

AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids (lactic, glycolic, mandelic, cytric, and malic)

In this list Glycolic is the star working on exfoliating, decreasing fine lines, preventing acne, fading dark spot and increasing skin thickness.

Mandelic is another AHA that doesn't penetrate as deeply and therefore isn't as irritating. It helps to prevent acne, treats sun damage and helps to even out skin tone by decreasing pigmentation.

BHAs or beta hydroxy acids (salicylic)

Salicylic acids binds to sebum and helps to dry up oily, acne prone skin. They are used in different concentrations to treat additional skin problems such as melasma, acne scars, age spots and even warts.

Which acid should I use?

Best for:

Acid:

Lightening age spots

kojic acid, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, linoleic acid, ascorbic acid, ferulic acid

Aging skin

glycolic acid, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, ferulic acid

Acne-prone skin

azelaic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid

*A note about hyaluronic acid. This type of acid has a pH lower than neutral and therefore doesn't behave like the other acids mentioned. It is a large, sugar molecule that attracts water to help the skin maintain moisture.