Alpha Hydroxy Acid And Vitamin C

Raise your hand if you've been personally victimized by your facial scrub.

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If your hand is in the air, you should know that there's a better way to exfoliate: alpha hydroxy acids.

What Are Alpha Hydroxy Acids?

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) is the group name for several types of acids that are naturally found in different foods and plants. They're a group of "peeling" agents that exfoliate chemically, says Jennifer MacGregor, M.D., Union Square Laser Dermatology. Translation: They slough off cells without you having to physically scrub your face off.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid Benefits

These little suckers help prevent dead skin cells from sticking together, making it easier to exfoliate. The result: "more radiant, glowing skin," says MacGregor.

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MacGregor says AHAs promote cell turnover, meaning that they force the skin to create new skin cells by removing the old dead ones. So using AHAs on the reg can help brighten skin and improve the appearance of sun damage or a blotchy complexion.

AHAs also help unclog pores, making them great for treating acne.

Types Of Alpha Hydroxy Acids

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There are a lot of different varieties, but here are the ones you'll most often find in your skin-care products:

  • Glycolic acid (from sugar cane)
  • Lactic acid (from milk)
  • Citric acid (from citrus fruits like lemons)
  • Malic acid (from apples)

    How To Use Alpha Hydroxy Acids

    You'll find forms of alpha hydroxy acids in facial exfoliaters, toners, and peel pads.

    "Apply in the morning after cleansing using a low concentration pad (10 percent or less)," recommends MacGregor. "Splash with water after a few minutes and follow with antioxidant serum and sunscreen."

    AHAs are usually tolerated by most skin types, although they can have a drying effect when combined with other exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid. If you have very sensitive skin (or have a condition such as rosacea or eczema), you should avoid alpha hydroxy acids since they might be too irritating for you.

    You can, however, use them with retinol to get double-duty on anti-aging benefits—just alternate them (retinol one day, AHA the next) or pick a product that has both.

    Shop Alpha-Hydroxy Acids

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    Alpha Hydroxy Acid And Vitamin C

    Source: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19183960/alpha-hydroxy-acid/