Now that I have your attention, let's talk about acids... When it comes to skin-care products, there are two classes of acids you'll see often: beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Both alpha and beta hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin, but AHAs are water-soluble, while BHAs are oil-soluble. AHAs work well on the skin's surface to loosen old, dead skin and reveal fresh newer skin. BHAs work deeper to penetrate into the pores to unclog and remove excess sebum.
Since we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s discuss the most common acids found in over the counter beauty products and serums.
Salicylic Acid: Blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, or pimples? No problem. This BHA which is commonly found in acne washes and spot treatments. It is capable of penetrating deeper layers of the skin to unclogged pores and dry out pimples.
So for a while, I believed that I was allergic to Salicylic Acid… While I have no conclusive proof that I’m not, this randomly happened to my face after using SA for two years. My eyes may be swollen, but my pores are nonexistent. Low key worth it. What I have discovered is that I damaged my moisture barrier and because my skin was extremely thin I was irritating the deeper layers of my skin by using SA in conjunction with Adapalene. In conclusion, don't use Differin gel and Salicylic Acid or your face will swell. 🙃
Glycolic Acid: First and foremost, glycolic acid is the most common type of AHA. It helps shed dead skin cells and reveal the newer, brighter layers underneath by acting on the outermost layer of skin. This makes it an all-around treatment for many skin concerns like blackheads, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris.
I am currently using Glycolic Acid to help with my strawberry legs in conjunction with Lactic Acid. I'll keep you posted on how that goes...
Lactic Acid: Lactic acid is another common AHA. It exfoliates by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells to reveal a more radiant complexion. Lactic acid helps improve the skin's natural moisture factor, or the way the skin keeps itself hydrated. Basically, lactic acid helps to keep the skin moisturized and feeling less dry.
Hyaluronic Acid: Tricked ya! Hyaluronic Acid isn’t an acid at all. It’s a humectant which is a category of skin care ingredients that are hygroscopic, meaning they draw moisture from their surroundings. Humectants are often found in water-based moisturizers, serums, and other leave-on skin care products because of their ability to help boost hydration for all skin types, which is especially beneficial for dry, dehydrated skin.
There are other acids, but these are the four most commonly used in at home skin care. I am constantly testing out new brands and products. I'll keep ya'll posted on my product adventures.