Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are fruit acids derived from edibles like grapes, apples, oranges, milk, and cane sugar. These gentle acids dissolve clumps of dead cells, clearing them away. Some researchers also speculate that AHAs may stimulate collagen production. The bottom line: AHAs make skin more luminous. On an ingredients list, look for glycolic, lactic, citric, malic, or tartaric acid.
•Try an AHA facial cleanser It will let you exfoliate and clean your skin at the same time.
•Use a moisturizer with an AHA This double-duty product locks moisture into skin while also whisking away dead cells. Glycolic acid is one of the most popular AHAs found in moisturizers; most over-the-counter products have between 5 and 10 percent. While these concentrations are suitable for most people, take care not to over-exfoliate. If you mix and match too many AHA products—say, an acid-based cleanser and AHA moisturizer in the morning and an exfoliating cream at night—you run the risk of inflaming your skin. A gentler option than glycolic acid is lactic acid, which also happens to be a moisturizer.
Be extra cautious about sun exposure afterward. AHAs may leave skin extra sensitive to sunlight.
Warm regards and love,
Erin
