The Ultimate Guide to Alpha Hydroxy Acid Skincare: Smooth Skin, AHA Routine, and Products
Discover the best ways to use alpha hydroxy acids for smoother, brighter skin. Learn about AHA skincare, AHA routine, and the best AHA products.
If you are looking for a way to improve your skin’s texture, tone, and brightness, you may want to try alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) skincare.
In this article, we will explain the benefits of using AHA skincare, how to incorporate AHA into your routine, and some of the best AHA products for glowing skin.
We will also share some tips for achieving a smooth and radiant complexion, and some expert advice on AHA usage.
AHAs used in Cosmetic treatments and products
AHA is a kind of chemical exfoliant that can peel off the old skin cells from your skin’s surface, making your skin smoother, newer, and more glowing.
These compounds can also improve other skin issues, such as pimples, dark spots, wrinkles, and large pores. AHA is used in various cosmetic products, such as cleansers, toners, serums, creams, and masks.
Benefits of Using AHA Skincare
As a group of organic acids, AHA is derived from natural sources, such as fruits, sugar cane, and milk. Some of the most common AHAs are glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, and citric acid.
AHA works by breaking down the bonds that hold the dead skin cells together, allowing them to shed off easily. This can result in several benefits for your skin, such as:
- As a chemical exfoliator, AHA is great for getting rid of those dull, dead skin cells and revealing fresh, glowing skin cells.
- Smoothing the skin’s texture, which can make your skin softer and more even
- Brightening the skin’s tone, which can make your skin more luminous and reduce the appearance of dark spots and scars
- Stimulating collagen production, which can make your skin firmer and plumper
- Clearing the pores, which can prevent clogged pores and breakouts
- Enhancing the absorption of other skincare products, which can improve their effectiveness and results
Product Review
Best AHA Products
Our team has gone the extra mile to find and review the top AHA products just for you to use in the comfort of your own home. We've done all the hard work so you can easily find the perfect AHA product for your needs.
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Here are some of the must-try AHA products for glowing skin.
Our Top Picks
2. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
3. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
4. Artnaturals Lactic Acid + AHA
5. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
This is a budget-friendly, effective, and gentle toner that contains 7% glycolic acid, along with aloe vera, ginseng, and tasmanian pepperberry. It can exfoliate, brighten, and hydrate your skin, and prepare it for the next steps of your skincare routine. It is suitable for all skin types, except for very sensitive or broken skin.
Delighted Customer Testimonial
It has a light scent and isn't invasive. I did a tolerance test on my inner wrist, and I had no issues. My skin not only looks healthier and lighter, but my skin feels amazing. I've heard of this brand before, and I'm so glad I gave it a try. It really is worth the hype.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
This is a lightweight, hydrating, and non-sticky gel that contains 8% glycolic acid, along with chamomile, green tea, and sodium hyaluronate. It can smooth, brighten, and plump your skin, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, pores, and scars. It is suitable for normal to dry skin types, and can be used daily or every other day. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant is a good option if you have sensitive skin.
Delighted Customer Testimonial
This is my 3rd time purchasing. I love this product I found when I first used the little bottles, a little went a long way. Every time I run out of this product I break out again, and the moment I repurchase my skin clears!
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
This is a luxurious, potent, and fast-acting serum that contains a blend of AHAs, such as glycolic, lactic, tartaric, citric, and salicylic acids, along with raspberry extract, marula oil, and cactus extract. It can exfoliate, clarify, and renew your skin, and address multiple skin concerns, such as dullness, unevenness, congestion, and aging. It is suitable for all skin types, except for very sensitive or broken skin, and can be used nightly or every other night.
Delighted Customer Testimonial
I love it! It makes my face so good it’s actually amazing!
Artnaturals Lactic Acid + AHA
Artnaturals, serum not only exfoliates but also keeps your skin hydrated - talk about double benefits! By gently loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, it reveals a more radiant complexion, leaving you with a healthy glow.
A Brightening Formula that is definitely a game-changer. With the power of hydrating Lactic Acid, it brightens, smooths, and evens out your skin tone, giving you a more balanced appearance. Thanks to Lactic Acid (AHA), it works wonders in reducing their appearance, along with dark spots.
Delighted Customer Testimonial
Thanks. Exceeded expectations, it is so effective
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask
This is a fun, refreshing, and hydrating mask that contains a blend of AHAs, such as glycolic and lactic acids, along with watermelon extract, hyaluronic acid, and peony root. It can exfoliate, moisturize, and soothe your skin, and give you a dewy and glowing complexion. It is suitable for all skin types, and can be used as an overnight mask or a wash-off mask.
Delighted Customer Testimonial
I love that it's a cooling gel, it smells great, and my skin instantly looks better when I use it, not to mention how my skin looks with continued use.
How to Incorporate AHA into Your Routine
AHA can be found in various skincare products, such as cleansers, toners, serums, creams, and masks. Depending on your skin type, needs, and preferences, you can choose the product that suits you best. However, there are some general guidelines that you should follow when using AHA skincare, such as:
Intensity and Frequency
Start with a low concentration and frequency, and gradually increase them as your skin gets used to AHA. AHA can be irritating or sensitizing for some people, especially if used in high concentrations or frequencies.
Use a product that has a low percentage of AHA, such as 5% or less, and use it once or twice a week. Then, you can increase the percentage and frequency as your skin tolerates it. You can also use a patch test to check how your skin reacts to AHA before applying it to your face.
AHA is best used in your evening beauty regime
Use AHA at night, and always wear sunscreen during the day. AHA can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, and increase the risk of sunburn, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation.
Therefore, it is recommended to use AHA at night, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during the day.
You should also avoid direct sun exposure and wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses, when using AHA skincare.
Moderation is key
Moderation is key to avoid over-exfoliating your skin. AHA can be beneficial for your skin, but too much of it can be harmful. Over-exfoliating your skin can cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, or damage to your skin barrier.
Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin that protects it from water loss, environmental damage, and infection. A damaged skin barrier can make your skin more prone to dehydration, sensitivity, and infection.
Therefore, you should use AHA in moderation, and avoid using other exfoliating products or tools, such as scrubs, brushes, or peels, when using AHA skincare.
How do I choose the best AHA product for my skin type?
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Choosing the best AHA product for your skin type can be tricky, as there are many factors to consider, such as the concentration, pH, formulation, and ingredients of the product. Here are some general tips to help you find the right AHA product for your skin:
Sensitive skin needs
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to opt for a milder AHA, such as lactic acid, malic acid, or mandelic acid. These AHAs have larger molecule sizes, which means they penetrate the skin less deeply and cause less irritation.
You may also want to look for a product that has a low percentage of AHA, such as 5% or less, and use it once or twice a week. You can also look for a product that contains hydrating and soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera, glycerin, or chamomile.
Oily or acne-prone skin needs
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to opt for a stronger AHA, such as glycolic acid or citric acid. These AHAs have smaller molecule sizes, which means they penetrate the skin more deeply and deliver more results.
You may also want to look for a product that has a higher percentage of AHA, such as 10% or more, and use it daily or every other day. Shop for a product that contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or niacinamide.
Normal or combination skin needs
If you have normal or combination skin, you may want to opt for a balanced AHA, such as glycolic acid or lactic acid. These AHAs are the most popular and effective ones, as they can exfoliate, brighten, and hydrate your skin.
You may also want to look for a product that has a moderate percentage of AHA, such as 8%, and use it every other day or every few days. Also look for a product that contains antioxidants and anti-aging ingredients, such as vitamin C, green tea, or retinol.
No matter what your skin type is, you should always do a patch test before using any AHA product, to check how your skin reacts to it.
You should also always use sunscreen during the day, as AHA can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
You should also use AHA in moderation, and avoid over-exfoliating your skin, as this can cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, or damage to your skin barrier.
Tips for Smooth, Radiant Complexion
Using AHA skincare can help you achieve a smooth and radiant complexion, but there are also some other tips that you can follow to enhance your results, such as:
Drink plenty of water, and eat a balanced diet
Water can help flush out toxins, hydrate your skin, and prevent dehydration lines. A balanced diet can provide your skin with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents, that can support your skin’s health and beauty.
Get enough sleep, and manage your stress
Sleep can help your skin repair and regenerate, and prevent dark circles, puffiness, and dullness. Stress can cause hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and oxidative stress, which can worsen your skin’s condition and accelerate aging. Therefore, you should get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, and practice some relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises, to cope with stress.
Cleanse your skin properly
Cleanse and remove your makeup before bed. Cleansing your skin can remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities that can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Removing your makeup can prevent your skin from suffocating and allow it to breathe and heal. You should cleanse your skin twice a day, in the morning and at night, and use a gentle, pH-balanced, and non-comedogenic cleanser that suits your skin type. Use a makeup remover or a micellar water to remove your makeup before cleansing your skin.
Moisturize your skin regularly
Moisturize your skin regularly, and use a humidifier if needed. Moisturizing your skin can replenish your skin’s hydration levels, and prevent dryness, flakiness, and irritation. Moisturizing your skin can also create a protective layer that can seal in the moisture and the active ingredients from your skincare products. If you live in a dry or cold climate, or if you use air conditioning or heating, to add some moisture to the air and your skin. Use a humidifier
Takeaway
There are many AHA products available on the market, but some of them stand out for their quality, performance, and popularity.
When it comes to picking an AHA product or exfoliation method, it's important to think about your skin type and the other products you're already using, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
If you're already using products that contain AHAs or if you're using manual exfoliation, adding another exfoliant might be a bit too much for your skin.
So, take a moment to assess what you're already using and what your skin needs before making a decision.
Read more:
Top 13 Best Retinols for Sensitive Skin in 2024, Expert-Tested and Reviewed: https://www.dialedinreviews.com/top-13-best-retinols-for-sensitive-skin-in-2024-expert-tested-and-reviewed/
FAQs
We answer all your questions
What are AHAs and why are they great for exfoliation?
As a chemical exfoliator, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are great for getting rid of those dull, dead skin cells and revealing fresh, glowing skin cells. AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid can help to smooth and improve skin texture by promoting cell turnover.
How do AHAs work on the skin?
AHAs work by loosening the glue-like substance that holds the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This allows the dead cells to slough off, revealing younger, healthy cells beneath. Additionally, AHAs can penetrate the top layers of the skin to enhance the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Can AHAs help with specific skin concerns?
Yes, AHAs can be beneficial for addressing a range of skin concerns including acne, skin dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles. These acids can also help promote collagen production, making them effective anti-aging products.
How should I incorporate AHAs into my skincare routine?
When incorporating alpha hydroxy acids into your skincare routine, start by using a product with a lower concentration to allow your skin to adjust. Apply the AHA product after cleansing and toning, but before applying any other serums or moisturizers. If you have sensitive skin, it's best to consult with a dermatologist before starting an AHA regimen.
Are there any precautions to consider when using AHAs?
Using AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is important to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. This can help protect your skin from potential damage or irritation.
What is the difference between AHAs and BHAs?
While AHAs work on the skin's surface to exfoliate and improve texture, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid can penetrate deeply into the pores, making them especially beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Resources
- Medical News Today. What are the benefits of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/alpha-hydroxy-acid Accessed 8/1/2024
- US Food and Drug Administration. Alpha hydroxy acids. (2020). https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/alpha-hydroxy-acids Accessed 8/1/2024
- Ludman, Paula MS. 3/3/22. American Academy of Dermatology. How to fade dark spots in skin of color. (n.d.). https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/fade-dark-spots
