Overview
- an active ingredient derived from fruit acids
- may be naturally occurring or synthetic
- common AHAs include:
> glycolic acid from sugar cane
> lactic acid from milk
> citric acid from citrus fruits
- less common AHAs include:
> malic acid from apples
> tartaric acid from wine
- helps exfoliate the top layers of the epidermis
- helps penetration of other ingredients
- promotes moisture restoration
Purported skin care benefits when applied topically:
- reduces superficial fine lines
- reduces irregular pigmentation and age spots
- reduces large pores
- smooths and firms skin
- removes blemishes
- helps skin look fresher, radiant and more luminous
Known side effects:
- can cause redness, flaking, blistering, burning and skin discoloration
> start with lower concentrations of 10 to 15 percent
- increase sun sensitivity due to their exfoliant behavior
> sunscreen must be used
Products containing this ingredient:
- many anti-aging and bleaching skin care products
- chemical peels
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About Sesame Blog editor of Viva Woman, Sesame is a skin care addict who is fond of using natural & organic beauty products. She also enjoys ogling at handmade jewelry & cute stationery.
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Actually, the FDA recommends not using AHAs in concentrations in excess of 10%. Also, the pH level of the product must be taken into account.
I wrote a short introduction-type article on this on my blog: http://inquisitivebeauty.blogspot.com/2008/03/basics-of-exfoliation-alpha-hydroxy.html.
Ink: Thanks for the link! I’ll check it out.