Alpha Hydroxy Acid
What is AHA?
Alpha Hydroxy Acid, commonly known as AHA, is a group of plant—and animal-derived acids used in various skincare products. These acids are most celebrated for their exfoliating prowess, helping to shed dead cells from the skin's surface and revealing the fresher, younger-looking skin beneath.
Usage in Cosmetics:
In the realm of cosmetics, AHAs are the stars of products aimed at improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines, and brightening the complexion. They're found in everything from daily cleansers and toners to night creams and masks, working diligently to keep your skin radiant and smooth.
Alternate Names:
AHAs go by several names depending on their specific type. Some common ones include Glycolic Acid (sugar cane-derived), Lactic Acid (milk-derived), and Citric Acid (citrus fruit-derived), each with its unique benefits.
Benefits for Inflammaging:
AHAs can be beneficial for managing inflammaging — a chronic, low-grade inflammation that accelerates aging. By promoting skin renewal and improving texture, AHAs can help mitigate some signs of skin aging. However, their exfoliating action should be moderated, as overuse can potentially lead to increased inflammation, particularly in sensitive skin.
Skin Sensitivities:
While AHAs offer numerous benefits, they must be approached with caution by those with sensitive skin. Overuse or using high concentrations of AHAs can lead to skin sensitivities, including redness, irritation, and dryness. It's crucial to start with lower concentrations and gradually build up as your skin acclimates, and always follow up with a sunscreen during the day as AHAs can make your skin more susceptible to UV damage.
Other Risks:
Besides the potential for causing irritation in sensitive individuals, AHAs can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, raising the risk of sunburn and sun damage. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen and limiting sun exposure while using AHA products is essential for skin health.
Sensitive Skin Consideration:
For our sensitive skin audience, we recommend patch testing any AHA product before full use and consulting with a dermatologist to determine the best AHA type and concentration for your skin.
