Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHA’s as they are popularly called, are natural acids that are derived from natural sources such as milk and fruits. They dissolve the dead skin cells and boost the regenerative process of new and healthy cells. There are a variety of AHA’s that can do a whole lot of good ...Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHA’s as they are popularly called, are natural acids that are derived from natural sources such as milk and fruits. They dissolve the dead skin cells and boost the regenerative process of new and healthy cells. There are a variety of AHA’s that can do a whole lot of good for your skin namely glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, mandelic acid and malic acids.
All these forms exfoliate the skin, the degree of which may vary in accordance to the acid and pH levels of the skin.
AHA’s are included as prime ingredients in a variety of skin care products including anti-aging skin care products, moisturizers and even sunscreens. This is because they accelerate the cell regeneration process and provide anti-aging benefits to the skin. They reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, heal acne and even reduce age spots and pigmentation marks. This is the reason most chemical peels include AHA’s in very strong concentrations.
Glycolic acid, an important alpha hydroxy acid is very instrumental in improving pigmentation concerns and healing melasma. AHA’s also seep in deeper than and impact cells at the root level. iS Clinical Active Serum contains about 8% glycolic acid. It is an excellent anti-aging serum that not only prevents and treats aging signs, but also improves the skin quality.
Skin Care Products with AHAs
AHA’s constitute a prime ingredient in many cleaners, lotions, acne treatments and anti-aging skin care products. Glycolic acid, a very popular form of AHA is used in creams and lotions. Other forms like lactic acid have strong hydrating properties and are used in many moisturizers. One of the mildest and most non-irritating forms of AHA is mandelic acid. Extracted from bitter almond, it improves skin texture and lends it a youthful appearance.
When Do AHA’s Work?
Generally, it takes about two weeks after you start treating your skin with AHAs to start seeing some visible results. AHAs are not an immediate treatment,rather they take time to exhibit results. Thus it is important you use the products regularly and persistently. The results are cumulative and will continue to work better and better.
How Do AHA’s Work?
Our skin is made up of several layers. There is a layer of dead skin cells that surround the fresh cells and create a barrier around it. This can lead to clogged pores and a dull complexion.
A popular way to correct this condition is to exfoliate the skin. However, unlike granular scrubs, AHAs dissolve the protein bond that connects the dead cells to healthy cells. This removes the outer layer and the skin becomes bright and radiant.
Glycolic acid is a powerful ingredient used to treat acne. The acid penetrates through skin pores and fends of acne-causing bacteria within the skin surface. As a result, it also controls acne inflammations and reduces excessive oil residues beneath the skin surface.
AHAs are excellent exfoliators. As a result there is visible reduction in the appearance of sun spots and acne blemishes. Also, topical products like acne creams, serums and moisturizers are able to better penetrate the skin surface.
Things To Remember
• Before you start using AHA containing skin care products, consult with your dermatologist about the product.
• Don’t forget to test the product on a small area of skin to see whether you are sensitive to the product or not. You also get to see how your skin reacts to the application.
• AHA’s exfoliate the skin and remove the outermost layer of the dead skin cells. This makes your skin very susceptible to the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Therefore, make sure you always wear a sunscreen while using AHA based skin care products.
• Do not use skin care products that have high concentration of AHA’s if you have sensitive skin. High concentration of glycolic acid can irritate the skin and leave it dry and itchy.
• If you are using AHAs based skin care products for the first time, don’t apply them daily. Start by using them on alternate days and as you skin gets used to it, increase the frequency of application.
Dr. Marilynn Syrett is a professional physician and skin care expert. Apart from writing articles about the various facets of skin care, she also reviews several skin care products from brand names like and iS Clinical.