Editor’s Note: This post was written before our faith-centered refocus, but we still stand by the message. Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture 💛
What are acids?
Acids in skincare are mild and mainly used in cleansing and exfoliating your skin.
There are two types of acids most commonly used in skincare, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs). There are also PHAs (Ploy Hydroxy Acids) which are good for persons with sensitive skin. Acids are used in chemical exfoliation. The strength of the acid determines the level of chemical exfoliation or peel which is categorized as superficial, medium or deep.
Most acids in skincare are derived from natural sources for example, glycolic acid comes from sugarcane, lactic acid from milk and salicylic acid from willow trees.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Alpha Hydroxy Acids are water-soluble and mostly work on the skin’s surface making them a good option for fine lines, texture and dullness. Their benefits are mostly to brighten skin, even out your skin tone and texture, and they may even stimulate collagen production which gives a more youthful appearance.
Some popular AHAs include:
- Glycolic acid
- Lactic acid
- Citric acid
Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
On the other hand, BHAs tend to penetrate deeper. They are good for unclogging pores, treating and preventing acne. They also help to reduce inflammation.
A common BHA is:
- Salicylic Acid
Poly Hydroxy Acids (PHAs)
PHAs are less irritating and are considered the milder version of AHAs. They have the same benefits as AHAs but are larger molecules so they do not penetrate as deep.
Some popular PHAs are:
- Gluconolactone
- Galactose
Other acids commonly used in skincare
Hyaluronic acid: It’s a natural substance found in the eyes and joints. It is a humectant, a water binding molecule. It holds 1000 times its weight in water making it great for hydration. It is commonly found in moisturizers and serums.
Azelaic acid: This is great and commonly found in products for sensitive skin. It is also used to treat skin issues like melasma and rosacea. It is naturally occurring and found in grains such as barley, wheat and rye.
Are acids safe to use?
The answer is yes. Acids can be found in products like cleansers, moisturizers, toners, serums and as mentioned before as stand alone products (exfoliators). The danger lies in the strength of the acid you are using and how often you are using said acid.
It’s important to note that prolonged use of acids can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so ensure to always include SPF in your daytime skincare routine. Overuse on the other hand can damage your skin. Telltale signs include dry skin and redness.
Now do let me know what acids you have tried and how they’ve worked for you. I hope this was helpful in choosing your skincare products.
