Your regular skincare routine contains a plethora of items, some of which you may not have anticipated. Acids are one such new component that you should be aware of. Acids in skincare may sound strange and frightening, but they are far more beneficial than you realise to provide smooth, radiant, and even skin tone with zero pigmentations. The acids most commonly used on a daily basis are AHAs or hydroxy acids such as glycolic or lactic acid, BHAs or beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid, and Vitamin C or Ascorbic Acid for that beautiful glow.
Once you know what sort of acid is in your product and how much of it there is, you can simply choose the correct skincare products to go with it for the greatest benefits.
What are acids or chemical exfoliants?
Using acids on the skin is not as frightening as it appears. Using the proper amount on the skin loosens it up and aids in the removal of all types of junk.
Skin acids come in a variety of forms, but they are often grouped into two major categories: AHAs and BHAs. AHAs smooth the skin and are water soluble. BHAs, on the other hand, are oil soluble and easily penetrate the pores to cleanse the skin. You may also come across a new form of acid known as PHAs or polyhydroxy acids, which are excellent for sensitive skin. They are not as effective as others.
Popular Skincare Acids
Ascorbic Acid
You’ve probably heard of Vitamin C, which is a highly recommended element in most dermatologists’ daily skincare routine. After all, Vitamin C is an anti-aging supplement as well as an antioxidant that protects the body from hazardous toxins in the environment. Applying Vitamin C to the face instantly inhibits pigments where appropriate and formulates collagen stimulation. However, it is critical to avoid exposing Vitamin C to light, as this can cause it to lose its stability.
AHA
Glycolic Acid
This AHA acid is included in serums, cleansers, moisturisers, and other treatments because of its great ability to penetrate the skin’s outer layer and increase cell turnover, functioning as a natural exfoliant. As a result, if you suffer from acne, hyperpigmentation, or premature skin ageing, this is the ideal product for you. However, for best benefits, keep it on your skin for at least a few minutes.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is the sole acid that has both exfoliating and moisturising properties. With each use, it moisturises and softens the skin. However, it must be assured that the lactic acid is gentle enough to be used on the face, and that it is suitable for use on the entire body. It is commonly used in body lotions for the treatment of dry and flaky skin, as well as for the treatment of pimples, most commonly on the back of the arm.
BHA or Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is an acne fighter because it exfoliates the skin’s surface layer while penetrates deeper into the skin to remove debris and buildups. It unclogs the pores and protects the skin from outbreaks.
Attention!
Combining AHAs and BHAs may not be a smart choice for you. Using both acids at the same time might produce irritation and redness on the skin. These, however, have varying effects on various skin types. Those with oily skin may not have any issues with this combo. Most items come with both integrated, so there is no need to add extra layers. However, there is one point when we would want to take a break. Never combine these two acids with Vitamin C. When used with AHA or BHA, vitamin C has exfoliating qualities on the skin and can cause significant discomfort.