Skin Care Basics - The Benefits of Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Alpha-hydroxyl Acids (AHAs)
HOW AHAs WORK
Our skin has a natural ability to exfoliate dead skin cells and does so daily. Unfortunately, this process slows down with age, which can lead to an accumulation of dead skin cells, leaving skin appearing dull and uneven.
AHAs dissolve the upper layer of skin cells by weakening the cellular “glue” that holds dead skin cells together, encouraging exfoliation and triggering skin repair.
HOW AHAs IMPROVE YOUR SKIN.
AHAs have a number of proven skin benefits.
AHAs remove dead skin cells, revealing healthy, younger skin cells, resulting in a brighter complexion and more even skin tone. This increase in cell turnover is also effective in treating sun-damaged skin, hyperpigmentation, and melasma.
AHAs trigger collagen regeneration, thickening the outer skin layers. This works to firm and tightens skin. minimize fine lines/wrinkles, and fade blotches. (When combined with retinol, these results can be even more dramatic, but we’ll save that for another blog...)
AHAs AND DRY OR SENSITIVE SKIN.
Many of my clients with dry or sensitive skin get nervous when they hear the word “acid“. Have no fear! Even those with dry or sensitive skin can benefit from regular use of a quality AHA product with proper pH balance.
AHAs may actually be a better choice to exfoliate sensitive skin because they are less likely to irritate than manual exfoliation. AHAs are gently applied to the skin, no need to scrub. AHAs can also be effective for dry skin. By removing the outer layer of dead skin cells, healthy skin cells become more receptive to the skincare products you apply. Regular AHA use, combined with appropriate products, can significantly increase your skin’s moisture factor.
GETTING STARTED WITH AHAs.
While there are a number of AHAs, the two most commonly used in skincare are Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid. Glycolic Acid is considered to be the most powerful because it has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs. The smaller the molecule, the deeper it is able to penetrate skin layers.
When beginning any AHA regimen, it is important to “start low and go slow”.
Start low - choose a product with a lower concentration of acid to start. Over time, and under the supervision of your skincare provider, you can gradually increase the concentration of your product for added benefits.
Go slow - don’t overdo it! Start your AHA routine only 1-2 times per week, giving your skin plenty of time in between treatments to rest and repair. You can gradually work up to two more frequent use. I typically recommend an every other day regimen for my patients, using AHAs twice daily on “active“ days, with “rest“ days in between.
You can add an AHA right into your regular skincare routine. Apply your AHA after cleansing, and follow with serum and/or moisturizer. Don’t forget sun protection! The use of AHAs can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage, so don’t forget your daily sunblock!
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FROM OUR SANITAS SKINCARE LINE:
Glycosolution 5%
The perfect starting point. Removes spent skin cells and help stimulate skin renewal. An amino acid complex, blended with glycolic acid, helps smooth the appearance of wrinkles, boost moisture retention and brighten dark spots. (also included in all Sanitas System Kits)
Brightening Peel Pads
Instant results! These pads contain a triple acid blend to brighten, tone, and reveal clear radiant skin. Follow with 3 drops of Vita C Serum for an instant glow.
Solar Block
A natural, non-toxic broad-spectrum sunscreen for daily use. Contains a blend of zinc oxide and antioxidants. Absorbs quickly and will not clog pores.
All Sanitas products are cruelty-free and contain no parabens, phthalates, dyes, harsh preservatives, or gluten.