Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHAs are popularly known for their anti aging capabilities. They are found in most skin care products today including chemical peels, cleansers, toners, and exfoliants. The 5 key AHAs used in cosmetic products are citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, lactic acid, and glycolic acid. All these compounds are derived from fruits except only for lactic acid. AHAs act mainly as exfoliant and are used by aestheticians and doctors in treatment procedures like chemical peels.
AHAs are considered natural exfoliants. They eliminate dead skin cells so that newer and younger cells may be revealed, giving the skin a healthier appearance. They are also very effective in stimulating the skin’s production of elastin and collagen, which results to a more supple skin. Glycolic acid and lactic acid in particular, are capable of increasing hyaluronic acid, a very essential factor in skin moisturization, making them an important component in anti aging skincare.
Sun-damaged skin can also be improved with the help of glycolic or lactic acid. These two AHAs possess qualities that can smoothen the skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and prevent hyper-pigmentation. They also have the capacity to improve the function of the skin so that it can hold in more moisture. As a result, cell turnover in the skin increases, leading to a younger and fresher skin.
AHAs have their drawbacks, too, and one of these is skin irritation. They shouldn’t be used in high amounts because they can cause rashes, itchiness, skin redness, skin darkening, and swelling. That doesn’t affect AHAs reputation though, because until today, they are still considered one of the best agents in fighting the signs of aging. AHAs are also suitable for people with chronic skin diseases like rosacea. When used in the right amounts, most of the side effects can actually be avoided.
There are different strength levels for AHAs, with the stronger solution used by doctors in cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels. The higher the strength of AHA, the better it can stimulate production of collagen. Normally though, over-the-counter skin products only contain at least 2% AHAs. However, if better results are desired, a product should have 10% glycolic or lactic acid.
It’s also important to take note that the pH level of a product determines how effective its AHA content is. If the pH level is low, you can be sure that the AHA is strong enough to produce blisters and other irritations. If the pH level is very high, the AHA level would be very low that it might not be able to produce significant results. To achieve desired results, choose products with 10% AHA and pH level of 3.5. Also, ensure that you use sunscreen along with it.
This author recently published a valuable page on facial exercises and gives information about anti-aging foundation on the beauty and skin care site. Come visit the website now.