ALPHA HYDROXY ACID (AHA) EXFOLIANTS
Natural AHAs are water-soluble acids made from sugary fruits or lactose. They help peel away the surface of your skin so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells may generate and take their place.
AHA exfoliants are hugely beneficial for dry skin with advanced signs of aging. AHA exfoliants are proven to smooth wrinkles and fine lines, refine large pores, help with rough, crepey texture, and will leave you with hydrated, supple skin with a healthy glow. AHAs have also proven effective in minimizing the visible signs of sun damage, sun spots and pigmentation.
CLEAN CODE TIP: AHAs for dry skin and anti-aging.
How to use AHAs in your skincare routine
As we have determined AHAs are the superheroes of exfoliation. The skin loving benefits varying depending on the type of acids. When selecting a serum, as a guide select an AHA with a maximum concentration level of 15 percent, using every second day at introduction if you have sensitive skin.
Select a formulation that has other skin loving ingredients that counteract any irritation due to the AHA. This is one of the benefits of using an organic formulation!
AHAs can also be present in cleansers, a physical exfoliation or a mask.
No matter how you incorporate AHAs into your routine, remember that they are a strong exfoliation (think old school dermabrasion) makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. Pick a BB or wear a sunscreen under your makeup. If you have sensitive skin, it is also recommended that you introduce it into your routine every second day and work up to it daily.
What are the different forms of AHAs?
Look to a formulation that combines these varied forms of AHAs. The many varied forms of natural AHAs include:
Glycolic Acid: is the most common type of AHA and is made from sugar cane. This is an all-round form of AHA for many skin concerns, due to its antimicrobial properties, it helps in the prevention of acne breakouts.
Lactic Acid: is from the lactose in milk, and for centuries it has been revered for its significant exfoliation and anti-aging effects.
Tartaric Acid: not as commonly used, but like Glycolic, it is a fruit acid, made from grape extracts, and is beneficial in improving sun damage and acne.
Citric Acid: is made from citrus fruit extracts. Its main benefit is to neutralize the skin’s pH levels making it a great ingredient in cleansers and toners.
Malic Acid: is a type of AHA-BHA crossover. It’s made from apple acids. Compared to other AHAs, malic acid isn’t as effective as a solo ingredient, it is formulated with other acids to improve efficacy of the other acids.
Mandelic: contains larger molecules derived from almond extracts. It can be combined with other AHAs to increase exfoliation. We see this acid used alone to improve texture and pore size.
Our top picks for AHA benefits:
AMALA: Clinical Retexturising Micro Polish $105.00
This dual-action exfoliator combines natural micro-silica beads with sugar enzymes to resurface and clarify skin. Dissolves rough surface cells to uncover clearer, smoother skin. 3% AHA Fruit Complex. This high potency blend of AHA fruit acids dramatically improves cell renewal to help smooth texture, brighten tone, purify pores and minimize the look of lines.