Alpha Hydroxy Acids
The truth about alpha hydroxy acids
Numerous anti aging remedies are coming out with AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids as their main ingredient. Touted to help reduce the effects of aging, they are flowing the market and causing quite a stir. But what are they? And how do they work?
How can I find them?
AHAs are any number of ingredients in cosmetics and anti aging potions. Here are some of the more common names:
What are they?
AHAs are fruit acids that react with the skin to allow new skin cells to rise to the surface and restore a youthful appearance. And while they seem cutting edge to us, they were actually found to be used back in the times of Egypt by none other than Cleopatra herself.
What can they do?
Alpha hydroxy acids can do a number of things for your skin. Appropriate for nearly every skin type, they can help to unblock pores and restore cleanliness to pores. They can also help soften and smooth lines and wrinkles on the outer layers of the skin. The skin’s texture and tone are also improved by the use of AHAs in lotions and cleansers.
Are they right for you?
Some people who try to use AHAs will find that their skin can react unfavorably. There are some skin types that are sensitive to the reaction of acid on the skin and it can create a temporary reddish coloring that will dissipate once use has stopped. For others, AHAs are a great step to add to your skin routine at night to help uncover your natural glow. You will want to try the lotion on a test area of skin to see if you have a reaction before using it on your entire face.
How do you use them?
In a cream or lotion, you will want to apply AHAs lightly to cleansed skin. When you apply them at night, you will allow them to work with your skin as you sleep, helping you wake up with fresher skin. You can also use AHAs in day creams, but this can be tricky as you will need to protect your skin from the sun in order to prevent the acid from combining with the UV rays and causing too intense of an experience.
Are they the best option?
For most people that are concerned about their skin, AHAs allow them to use a gentle product everyday instead of resorting to more intensive skin therapies. They are also readily available at drugstores and department stores, so they aren't very expensive to purchase. For those without sensitive skin, they are a great new way to restore moisture, even out tone, and create a smooth appearance - all without surgery or other invasive techniques.