Exfoliation with an acid is a very important step in daily skin care. The word "acid" may scare you, but an acid is very gentle on the skin. At home, you can start by using low concentrations of acids. Acids are used for various indications such as acne, sun damage, anti-aging, scars. Did you know that even pigments can be treated with an acid? This blog is dedicated to the different AHA acids and their effectiveness.
1. AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids)
These acids are water-soluble and, in the right concentrations, have a peeling effect on the skin. They have a small molecule and can therefore penetrate deep into the skin. The acids peel off the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing new, healthy cells. In addition, these acids stimulate cell renewal in the lower layers of the skin and improve the skin's moisture balance. Finally, they stimulate the production of collagen, which makes wrinkles fade.
The best known AHA acids are:
- Glycolic acid: Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells, has a moisture-binding effect in the skin, which improves water balance, makes superficial pigment spots less visible, and in high concentrations, glycolic acid stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. Glycolic acid products are ideal for dehydrated, dull skin, rough skin structure, skin with pigment spots and skin with incipient wrinkles.
- Lactic acid: Lactic acid is also used in products and peels. This is due to the lightening and bactericidal effect of this ingredient. Lactic acid products are very suitable for skin with pigment spots, acne, rosacea and couperose.
2. BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids)
BHA is also known as salicylic acid. This acid is fat-soluble, which allows it to penetrate the pores, dissolve sebum and flush the pores again. Salicylic acid is therefore ideal for acne-prone skin or acne scars. In addition, BHAs have the same properties as AHAs, namely: softening the top layer of dead cells, stimulating cell division, filling in fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen and elastin and giving the skin a beautiful glow.
3. Azelaic acid
This acid has a quadruple effect, namely: antibacterial, exfoliating (removing dead skin cells), anti-inflammatory and lightening. This ingredient is very effective for acne-prone skin, rosacea and skin with pigment spots.
The use of acids would therefore in many cases be a good addition to your daily skin care. It is important to use the acids gradually, so that the skin gets used to them, and not to use them too often, as this could have the opposite effect. To ensure that you are using the right skin care, we recommend that you make an appointment with us for a free, no-obligation preliminary interview. During this interview, we will discuss all your wishes and examine your skin closely. We will then advise you on the products that are best suited to your skin and, if necessary, draw up a treatment plan for you. This allows us to give you honest and comprehensive advice, in order to visibly improve your skin.
Frequency of Use of Skin Care Acids
First of all, always read the product instructions. The frequency varies depending on the product, some can be used twice a day and others once a day or less. You should also consider how your skin reacts. Start slowly and gradually increase the frequency of use once you are sure your skin tolerates it well.
The effect of skin care acids
