Oct 3, 2023 3:56:02 PM / by GlyMed Advanced Aesthetic Institute
Are you looking at the different ingredients in skincare products and thinking that the word “acid” sounds a little intimidating? While it can feel counterintuitive, acids used in skincare are very beneficial for your skin, especially if they’re curated for your specific needs.
Here’s how skincare acids can be valuable for your skincare routine.
WHAT ARE SKINCARE ACIDS?
Active skincare acids are ingredients used in skincare products that target specific skin concerns effectively. They are organized into three main categories:
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These water-soluble acids primarily target the skin's surface. They reveal a smoother, brighter complexion by breaking the bonds between dead skin cells during exfoliation. By making the skin plumper and more hydrated, AHAs can reduce hyperpigmentation—plus, they’re safe for all Fitzpatrick Skin Types.
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Though BHAs also work to break apart dead skin cells, they are oil-soluble acids that can penetrate deeper into the skin. Because of their ability to enter your pores, BHAs excel at targeting acne lesions.
Trichloroacetic Acids (TCAs): This synthetic acid is used in professional chemical peels and can penetrate even deeper into the skin. TCA helps with more severe skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation and deep wrinkles.
Skincare acids can originate from natural sources and scientific labs. Natural sources include fruits (e.g., citric acid from citrus fruits), sugar cane (glycolic acid) and willow bark (salicylic acid).
Meanwhile, synthetic acids, engineered in laboratories, offer precise solutions to specific skin concerns. Each acid possesses unique properties that, when used correctly, can noticeably improve skin health and appearance.
However, always exercise caution when using skincare acids and seek professional guidance to determine the frequency of use.
HOW YOUR SKIN CAN BENEFIT FROM ACIDS
From removing dullness to battling breakouts, acids in skincare are an important step to achieving and maintaining a clear complexion. They offer many benefits, such as:
Removal of dead skin cells
Brightening and evening out skin tone
Treating acne lesions
Hydrating and plumping the skin
Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Understanding the specific functions of each acid can help you use them effectively. If you're unsure of where to start, ask one of our GlyMed Pros. With the right knowledge, you can find products that will add to your skincare routine.
TYPES OF SKINCARE ACIDS
Here are some of the most common acids used in skincare.
ASCORBIC ACID (VITAMIN C)
Ascorbic acid, better known as Vitamin C, aids in the regeneration of skin cells. Found in our Vitamin C Cream, this powerful antioxidant is a key ingredient commonly used in serums, moisturizers and face masks. Its reputation for rejuvenating the skin and effectively combating signs of aging makes it a valuable addition to any skincare routine.
CITRIC ACID (AHA)
This excellent source of Vitamin C successfully brightens skin and reduces signs of aging. In addition to its antioxidant properties, it works to exfoliate the skin gently, improving skin tone and enhancing overall skin radiance. Our Age Defying Masque uses citric acid for its antioxidant benefits while adding balance to the overall formula.
FULVIC ACID
Fulvic acid is hailed for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice for soothing irritated skin and boosting skin health. Commonly found in skin creams, lotions and serums (like our Restoring Fulvic Elixir), fulvic acid reduces redness and promotes a balanced complexion.
GLYCOLIC ACID (AHA)
Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, more youthful complexion. Commonly used in cleansers such as our Glycolic Facial Cleanser, this powerful skincare acid targets dullness, uneven texture and fine lines.
HYALURONIC ACID
This hydration powerhouse aids in retaining moisture to result in plumped-up, youthful-looking skin. It's a popular ingredient in skincare—found in moisturizers, serums and masks—because it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in moisture.
Products like our Ultra Hydro Gel take advantage of this fact to replenish dehydrated skin.
LACTIC ACID (AHA)
Using a gentle exfoliating action, lactic acid sloughs away dead skin cells to reveal a fresher, smoother complexion. It's often found in daily exfoliators and brightening serums where it works to improve skin texture and reduce hyperpigmentation.
SALICYLIC ACID (BHA)
Salicylic acid can penetrate pores and dissolve excess sebum. That’s why this powerful ingredient flourishes in acne treatments like our Purifying Cleanser.
If you need help understanding how to achieve your goals through skincare acids, try asking a GlyMed Pro. Our skincare professionals understand the science behind each product.
HOW TO INCORPORATE SKINCARE ACIDS INTO YOUR DAILY ROUTINE
Using skincare acids isn’t a complicated science. It can be quite an easy process once you know how to do it properly. Here are tips on how to work them into your skincare routine:
Start Slow: Introduce one new product at a time to assess how your skin responds. If your skin responds well, you can add another acid-based product after a few weeks. Just be sure to follow application guidelines as overusing skincare acids can lead to compromised skin.
Wear Sunscreen: Exfoliating acids, especially AHAs and BHAs, can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Daily application of sunscreen with at least SPF 30 can protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Choose the Right Products: Having the wrong concentration of acid in a product can lead to irritation and inflammation. Start with the lowest concentration you can find and work your way up.
Ask Questions: Talk to a skin expert, like one of our GlyMed Pros, to find the perfect combination for you. They can assess your skincare needs and recommend the right products.
Using skincare acids can make a significant difference in your skin. Our products at GlyMed Plus contain the purest form of these active ingredients to purify your skin and revive its natural beauty. Shop our products today for great additions to your skincare collection.