Do you Alpha Hydroxy?

Do you Alpha-Hydroxy?

Do you know what Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, also referred to as AHA, are? Did you know they are an amazing resource for helping so many skin problems? Wrinkles, dry skin, hyper-pigmentation, and rough skin can all be soothed with Alpha-Hydroxy Acids. Generally, Alpha-Hydroxy Acids work as an exfoliant by breaking the bond between the outermost layer of skin and the layer beneath. Revealing smooth, firmer more supple skin. AHA's are broken down into 5 general categories; Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, and Tartaric Acid. Let's chat about the 2 most popular acids how your skin benefits from each of these acids and where they can be found naturally.



Glycolic Acid is the strongest of the acids in this list. You can find Glycolic acid naturally in fruits and plants that are high in sugar. These are the smallest molecules of the AHA's making them the most effective at dissolving sebum and other substances that bind to the first layer of skin, but also the harshest on your skin. These tiny molecules are highly water soluble. They do the best job of removing the outermost layer of skin. You can find them Glycolic Acid naturally in sugar beet powder, tomatoes, pineapples, and unripe grapes.

Having a correctly done chemical peel monthly can be beneficial to control and soothe your skin problems. Alternatively, using an at-home mask once a week or in your cleansing and moisturizing products daily can help with pigmentation, dullness, and signs of aging. If you have sensitive skin maybe our next topic is better suited for you, lactic acid.

Lactic Acid, like glycolic acid, is a great mean of exfoliating off the outer layer of dead, dry skin cells by dissolving the bond between layer instead of mechanically with something like coffee grounds. lactic acid has been found to assist in regenerating skin cells by increasing cell turnover rate in the cells that are revealed by exfoliating.  Giving you supple, smooth and glowing skin.

Where can you find this amazing facial acid? Well, yogurt is my favorite source as it is readily available and usually in your fridge. Buttermilk is also high in lactic acid. Fermented tea, coffee, and cocoa have recently become popular drinks; who knew they could also be used to give you beautiful skin? Generally speaking, if it has been fermented it has a pretty good level of lactic acid.

So what is your favorite type of AHA? Do you have a go-to mask? I LOVE my oatmeal, milk and honey mask. Want the DIY version? Come see us next week!

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