Why Everyone is Obsessed with Hydroxy Acids
What are Alpha Hydroxy Acids?
Alpha hydroxy acids, often denoted AHAs, are a common component in skin care products, and are naturally derived from both plants and animals. Plenty of products, including serums, creams, and anti-aging elixirs, contain alpha hydroxy acids.
Besides alpha hydroxy acids, there are also beta and poly hydroxy acids, both of which benefit the skin in different ways. And while plenty of skin care ingredients claim to be the ultimate “miracle in a bottle,” when it comes to hydroxy acids, the proof is in the pudding. Follow along as we detail the advantages of alpha hydroxy acids, and more!
Types of AHAs
Not all alpha hydroxy acids are created equal. There are several different types, each of which is intended to target specific skin care concerns. When shopping for skin care products to suit your needs, keep an eye out for these seven most commonly used alpha hydroxy acids.
Glycolic acid - derived from sugar cane
Citric acid - derived from citrus fruits like lemon & grapefruit
Hydroxycaproic acid - derived from royal jelly produced by honey bees
Hydroxycaprylic acid - fatty acid derived from animal byproducts
Lactic acid - derived from lactose or vegan alternatives such as beets
Malic acid - derived from fruits like citrus, berries, and grapes
Tartaric acid - derived from grapes
Benefits of hydroxy acids
Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are generally used to chemically exfoliate dead skin cells and help reduce the appearance of fine lines.
On the other hand, beta hydroxy acids, or BHAs, are primarily used to penetrate and work beneath the skin’s surface level for deep hydration or detoxification. Common BHAs used in skin care products include hyaluronic acid, alpha lipoic acid, stearic acid or ascorbic acid (Vitamin C).
If you’ve been curious about the hype surrounding hydroxy acids, here are just a few reasons why everyone is obsessed with these mighty skin care ingredients.
Help reduce the appearance of fine lines by smoothing skin
AHAs have powerful anti-aging properties, and specifically target fine lines. Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid will improve your skin’s texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that commonly form around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
Help brighten skin by breaking down dead skin cells
By acting as a natural exfoliant, alpha hydroxy acids work to slough off dead skin cells. This reveals brighter, more radiant and youthful skin. Achieving that outer glow is easier than you think, and AHAs are the secret.
Help deeply penetrate skin to hydrate or clarify
Beta hydroxy acids are capable of penetrating deep within your skin’s pores to dislodge dirt, oil, and other impurities. Your skin will be left feeling cleaner than ever, and you won’t lose an ounce of hydration.
Help promote collagen production by removing old cells
Collagen is made of protein-packed fibers that keep your skin looking plump and youthful. Unfortunately as we age, collagen production slows, which can lead to sagging skin. Alpha hydroxy acids promote collagen production by breaking down old, dead collagen fibers to clear the way for new ones.
Naturally exfoliate without physically irritated your skin
Because cell turnover slows with aging, dead skin cells have a tendency to build up on the surface of your skin. It becomes increasingly necessary to exfoliate regularly to remove dry, dull skin. The accumulation of dead skin cells can actually exacerbate other concerns such as breakouts, age spots, and wrinkles.
Help even skin tone and pigmentation by promoting new cell growth
By speeding up the cell turnover process, hydroxy acids help to even out your skin tone. The new skin cells revealed will be perfectly pigmented, so you don’t notice as much discoloration.
Help reduce blemishes by loosening clogged pores
Hydroxy acids are popularly used as acne fighting ingredients in cleansers, toners, and the like. Not only do they clean deep, they can actually shrink the appearance of your pores.
As you might’ve gathered from this list of benefits, you have a lot to gain by introducing hydroxy acids into your skincare regimen. Making alpha and beta hydroxy acids a part of your regular routine will result in noticeably softer, smoother, and all around flawless skin.
Moody Sisters infuses hydroxy acids into a selection of their skin care products. The Exfoliating Enzyme Facial Mask gently removes dead skin cells while leaving your face feeling fresh and invigorated with the scent of pineapple and papaya. Or, you can check out the Brightening Hyaluronic Acid Serum, formulated with glycolic acid, vitamin E, ginseng, and other ingredients that can brighten dull skin and correct dark spots to deliver that radiant, youthful looking glow that we all desire.
You don’t have to go under the knife, or endure the needle to achieve a fresh-faced appearance. Hydroxy acids are your secret weapon in a bottle. And the best part is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to take advantage of all that hydroxy acids have to offer.
