One of the most important lessons of skincare is to understand what you actually put on it. It can be fairly safe to take the advice of professionals. After all, they’ve gone through the education, understand the risks, and for the most part … have seen first hand what products and skincare systems can do for a person’s skin. However, it’s important to keep in mind that skin types are all different and our bodies are all made different.
What is AHA?
AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acid and has many benefits for the skin and so is used quite often as an ingredient in skincare products. It’s great for exfoliating as well as its ability to aid in skincare product penetrations. It comes in 3 different forms: glycolic, lactic, and mandelic, which are summarized below:
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is considered an active compound with the smallest molecules helping the penetration process more effective, especially when it comes to treating aging skin with wrinkles, fine lines, and even acne.
It’s great for exfoliating as it breaks apart dead skin cells to help reveal younger looking skin. If used in the right amount and with special care, it can help to clear pores and even reduce acne scars.
With the benefits also come great risks. So be aware of the amount you use. For example, an exfoliator with more than 8% glycolic acid can create many problems. Remember to also be mindful of the amount of times you exfoliate. There IS such a thing as too much!
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid can be found in food, such as citrus, fruits, vegetables and even sour milk. It’s often used for anti-aging skincare to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, like glycolic acid. However, it can be found in skincare products in much higher amounts than glycolic acid.
Lactic acid is known to be much more gentle than glycolic acid. However, it can still be strong enough to be used in chemical peels. It can help brighten and lighten skin, which also makes skin more prone to sun damage.
Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid is known to many as the best of the 3 AHAs. It’s got larger molecules so it takes longer to work, yet it’s the most gentle of all 3 AHA forms. through the penetration process, yet very effective, especially for tough jobs like an exfoliation.
Mandelic acid is also oil soluble, making it easier for products to penetrate the pores as well as work on its surface.
With the positive and gentle effects of mandelic acid, it’s no wonder mandelic acid has become the top AHA choice for skincare products like that found in skin script’s limited edition enzymes. What?! You’ve never heard of this? Contact TruSkin Rituals now for more information.
