Alphahydroxy acids Benefits to your skin

What are AHAs?

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of plant and animal-derived acids used in a variety of skincare products. These include daily anti-aging products, such as serums, toners, and creams, as well as occasional concentrated treatments via chemical peels.

There are seven types of AHAs 

commonly used in products available throughout the skincare industry. These include:

citric acid (from citrus fruits)

glycolic acid (from sugar cane)

hydroxycaproic acid (from royal jelly)

hydroxycaprylic acid (from animals)

lactic acid (from lactose or other carbohydrates)

malic acid (from fruits)

tartaric acid (from grapes)

Exfoliation refers to a process where the skin cells on the surface shed off. This helps remove dead skin cells but also makes way for new skin cell generation.

As you age, your natural skin cell cycle slows down, which can make dead skin cells build up. When you have too many dead skin cells, they can accumulate and make your complexion look dull.

Dead skin cell accumulation can also enhance other underlying skin issues, such as:

wrinkles

age spots

acne

AHAs are primarily used to exfoliate. They can also help:

promote collagen and blood flow

Collagen is a protein-rich fiber that helps keep your skin plump and smooth. As you age, these fibers break down. Sun damage may also accelerate collagen destruction. This can result in sallow, sagging skin.

Collagen itself is in the middle layer of your skin (dermis). When the upper layer (epidermis) is removed, products such as AHAs can go to work on the dermis. AHAs may help promote collagen production by destroying old collagen fibers to make way for new ones.

AHAs have anti-inflammatory properties that can help promote blood flow to the skin. This can help correct pale, dull complexions. Proper blood flow also ensures that skin cells get the necessary nutrients needed via oxygen-rich red blood cells.

correct discoloration from scars and age spots

AHAs promote skin cell turnover. New skin cells are evenly pigmented. In theory, long-term use of AHAs may reduce skin discoloration by encouraging the old, discolored skin cells to turn over.

improve appearance of surface lines and wrinkles

prevent acne breakouts

Acne pimples occur when your pores are clogged with a combination of dead skin cells, oil (sebum), and bacteria. Exfoliating with AHAs can help loosen and remove the clog. Continued use may also prevent future clogs from forming.

AHAs may also reduce the size of enlarged pores, which are commonly seen in acne-prone skin. Skin cell turnover from exfoliating glycolic and lactic acids can even reduce acne scars. Some acne products also contain other AHAs, such as citric and malic acids, to help soothe inflamed skin.

Aging skin. Applying alpha hydroxy acid in a lotion, cream, solution, or skin peel can decrease wrinkles and some other signs of aging or sun-damage.

Dry skin. Applying lotion or cream containing alpha hydroxy acid can improve dry skin.

Acne. Applying creams, peels, or lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids reduces signs of acne in teens and adults.

Acne scars. Applying alpha hydroxy acid to the skin in a facial peel or lotion seems to improve the appearance of acne scars.